Kuala lumpur: The Cabinet today expressed appreciation for the role, sacrifices, and strength of women in shaping the future of families, communities, and the nation on Women's Day. Minister of Women, Family and Community Development Datuk Seri Nancy Shukri announced that the 2026 International Women's Day will be celebrated on March 10 at the Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre (MITEC).
According to BERNAMA News Agency, the event, to be officiated by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, underscores the government's commitment to empowering women and ensuring their voices are valued. This year's theme, "Memartabat Wanita, Memperkukuh Negara" (Empowering Women, Strengthening the Nation), highlights that valuing women strengthens the entire country.
Datuk Seri Nancy Shukri expressed her gratitude on Facebook, thanking women from all walks of life-mothers, daughters, sisters, leaders, entrepreneurs, and educators-for their dedication, sacrifices, and resilience that inspire everyone. Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil also posted a tribute to women on Facebook, acknowledging the strength and love brought forth by women, particularly his mother and wife.
Human Resources Minister Datuk Seri R. Ramanan emphasized the ministry's priority in empowering women in both the formal and gig economy, noting their contributions to the workforce, leadership roles, innovation, and economic growth. He stressed the importance of skills development, social protection, fair job opportunities, and inclusive workplaces to help women thrive.
Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability Minister Datuk Seri Arthur Joseph Kurup highlighted women's involvement in various sectors as crucial for achieving the nation's sustainability agenda. He advocated for continued support and opportunities for women to lead, stating that empowering women builds a stronger, fairer, and more prosperous nation.
Additional support came from other Cabinet members, such as Minister of Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Datuk Armizan Mohd Ali and Works Minister Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi. Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing acknowledged women's role in preserving local culture and heritage, which supports community and economic development.
Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek, in a special letter, emphasized education as a means for women to rise from ignorance to enlightenment, while Minister in the Prime Minister's Department (Law and Institutional Reform) Datuk Seri Azalina Othman Said noted women's significant contributions to families, society, the economy, and national development.
Agriculture and Food Security Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Sabu and National Unity Minister Datuk Aaron Ago Dagang also recognized women's efforts in various sectors, highlighting their contributions to food security and societal unity.
Digital Minister Gobind Singh Deo celebrated women's strength, resilience, and leadership across all sectors, urging continued support for their rise and success. Higher Education Minister Datuk Seri Dr Zambry Abdul Kadir acknowledged women's sacrifices and their role as sources of inspiration and shapers of the nation's future.