MELAKA, Nov 9 – Pakatan Harapan (PH) has pledged to introduce special grants for women traders and expand government-operated childcare centres if the coalition wins the Melaka state election.
Melaka PH chairman Adly Zahari said the proposed grants aim to help women entrepreneurs grow their businesses and improve household incomes.
The initiative forms part of PH’s Melaka Rumah Kita manifesto under its Women Empowerment agenda.
Adly explained that the grants would support practical business needs. These include buying equipment, increasing product stock and expanding production capacity.
Business Grants to Support Women Entrepreneurs
Adly, who is also PH’s candidate for the Bukit Katil state seat, said the coalition wants to help women running small businesses and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).
However, he stressed that the programme should focus on genuine business needs. Authorities should assess applicants based on eligibility and realistic plans for using the funds.
He also highlighted the importance of proper guidance. Recipients should receive support in areas such as cost management and marketing.
During the election campaign, Adly said he had met many small business owners who still needed help promoting their products online.
Some also lacked the skills to use available digital and media platforms effectively.
Therefore, he said marketing training and technical assistance would help women entrepreneurs attract customers, strengthen their businesses and support their families financially.
PH Highlights Need for Better Childcare Services
Apart from business grants, PH also wants to increase the number of government-operated childcare centres in Melaka.
Adly said access to suitable childcare plays an important role in helping parents earn a living. This is especially important for parents who work shifts or have irregular working hours.
He said childcare facilities must consider several key factors. These include location, affordability, operating hours and safety.
According to Adly, suitable childcare arrangements would allow more parents to take advantage of business and employment opportunities.
He added that women make up a significant share of Melaka’s voters. PH wants to ensure women in business have access to reliable support and childcare services.
Adly shared these proposals during PH’s daily press conference at its Main Operations Room in Bukit Baru on Nov 9.
Source : BERNAMA | Rewritten By Minutesmy
