Kuala lumpur: Wanita and Puteri UMNO have called on the government to enhance its role in driving sustainable economic development by focusing on empowering women and youths, with particular emphasis on supporting local brands and the halal industry as vital components of Malaysia's economic growth.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Datuk Nurul Amal Mohd Fauzi, the Puteri UMNO chief, emphasized the importance of local brands to the country's economy. She highlighted the necessity of ensuring their survival and growth, particularly in strengthening the domestic value chain and creating income opportunities for young people. Nurul Amal urged the government to introduce policies that offer tangible support to local traders, ensuring these policies are implemented effectively. She delivered these remarks during the wing's policy speech at the UMNO 2025 General Assembly at the World Trade Centre Kuala Lumpur (WTCKL).
Nurul Amal further articulated that support for youth entrepreneurs should encompass financial assistance, guidance, and the establishment of a comprehensive entrepreneurial ecosystem. This support would enable young entrepreneurs to develop their own brands and promote Malaysian products on the international stage. She cited statistics indicating that 1.0 million to 1.3 million youths rely on flexible work or side income for survival, underscoring the potential for improvement if adequate support is provided.
In a parallel initiative, Wanita UMNO proposed that the Women in Halal Industry agenda be prioritized under the National Halal Industry Development Council, chaired by Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi. Datuk Seri Dr Noraini Ahmad, the Wanita UMNO chief and Minister of Plantation and Commodities, emphasized the dual role of the halal industry in generating profits and empowering women. She advocated for increased women's participation in the sector to bolster the family economy and reinforce Malaysia's leading position in the global halal industry.
Noraini emphasized that women should not only contribute as producers but also emerge as key players within the expanding halal industry chain. Her keynote speech at the Wanita UMNO General Assembly reinforced the need to elevate the Women in Halal Industry agenda to a strategic national level.