Kuala Lumpur: Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi has called on women entrepreneurs in the country to be more courageous in taking risks, be confident in their potential, and continue to move forward without fear of failure. He emphasized that in the rapidly developing digital era, entrepreneurship demands innovation, high competitiveness, and efficiency in optimizing technologies, such as e-commerce, digital marketing, and social media, to ensure businesses remain relevant and grow.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Ahmad Zahid expressed his desire to see more women entrepreneurs come forward, be brave, and take advantage of the opportunities available. He remarked, “Remember, every small step is the beginning of something bigger. Women are agents of change in a world that needs more effort, innovation, and collaboration. Every successful woman is proof that with support, confidence, and effort, nothing is impossible to achieve.”

The Deputy Prime Minister made these remarks while officia
ting the Voices of H.E.R 2025 Carnival and the 2025 Ibu Zain Awards Night at Dewan Merdeka of the World Trade Centre. During the event, he also presented the Ibu Zain Award, which honors extraordinary women who have made significant contributions in various fields, including education, entrepreneurship, health, law, sports, and volunteering.

Among the award recipients was national squash legend Datuk Nicol Ann David, who received the Voices of H.E.R. Award for her achievements in sports and her influence at the global level. Other notable recipients included actress Noor Neelofa Mohd Noor, who was honored with the Inspirational Woman Award, and national diving queen Datuk Pandalela Rinong Pamg, who received the Woman in Sports Award.

Earlier, Deputy Minister of Women, Family, and Community Development Datuk Seri Dr Noraini Ahmad highlighted that women’s entrepreneurship is not just about earning an income but also about empowering women to be agents of change in society. She stated that with the right suppo
rt, women entrepreneurs can achieve their full potential and contribute to the country’s economic development. “I am confident that with the continued effort and strong support from all parties, we will be able to see more successful women entrepreneurs in Malaysia and globally. I urge all parties to continue supporting and empowering the role of women in the economy,” she said.