KUCHING: Women staff at Kuching City South Council (MBKS) have played an important role in ensuring it remains one of the best local authorities.
In stating this Mayor Datuk Wee Hong Seng said it held this distinction not only in Sarawak or Malaysia, but also among Asian city councils.
“I am proud of all the ladies in MBKS, and I hope that with your skills and knowledge, you can bring MBKS standards in serving our people even higher, providing satisfaction for the service rendered and for the good image of the government,” he said.
Wee was speaking at MBKS Ladies Traditional Costume Contest held in conjunction with the International Women’s Day here Wednesday.
“It is heartening to see so many MBKS ladies with different skills and knowledge gathered here this morning. All your hard work and dedication are the reasons why we are able to keep Kuching South clean, vibrant, and a healthy city,” he said.
Wee added that as one of the city councils in Sarawak, MBKS needs to portray a good image and be a good example to other councils.
“As Sarawak is blessed with various cultures, this morning’s contest seeks to showcase and celebrate Sarawak’s beautiful and diverse cultures. People in Sarawak come from different ethnic backgrounds and have distinct sets of traditional attire that reflect their cultures.
“Today, you will see some of the more common ethnic costumes worn by Sarawak that show their vibrant cultural heritage,” he added
Wee said the council believes the contest would see cultural attire continue to grow in popularity.
“The reason for that is because we believe it is a powerful way to show connection to and pride in our heritage. It is also a great example to our younger generation to show them that our culture is not something that is reserved for museums and archives.
“Instead, it is living and breathing. Through wearing and showcasing cultural fashions, we are paying homage to our ancestors while adapting and carrying it forward with us into the future,” he said.
“As we celebrate International Women’s Day and the good work that MBKS ladies have achieved, I would also like to take this opportunity to remind all of us to stay healthy and take good care of ourselves.
“Many of us juggle different roles and responsibilities, whether it is family or work. Therefore, please remember to take some time out for yourselves so that you can recharge and participate in activities that you enjoy.
“Do not feel guilty about “me-time” because you know you deserve it. I look forward to MBKS ladies continuing to be a workforce that supports, inspires, and empowers all women and to be a network of support that celebrates the achievements and success of women.
“Be proud of yourselves and have faith in yourselves. Also, we should
respect each of them not because of gender, but for their own identity,” Wee said.
“I look forward to all your next chapter of achievements,” he said.
In the contest which was participated by 24 staff, the winner was Susan Lancaster, who wore the traditional Iban costume and she walked away with a cash prize of RM800 and a trophy.
Second place went to the traditional Malay costume worn by Marina anak Ahen, winning RM600 and a trophy and third place was won by Dolly Charles Saches who wore the Bidayuh costume and she won RM500 and a trophy.
All the other contestant finalists won RM150 while all those who did not qualify won RM50 each.
