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Women’s entrepreneurship has emerged as one of the defining trends of the 21st century. Around the world, women are increasingly stepping into the entrepreneurial space, actively seeking business opportunities just as readily as men. Their growing presence in the business world reflects not only shifting societal norms but also underscores their vital role in driving innovation, job creation, and inclusive economic growth. As key contributors to national and community development, women entrepreneurs are reshaping economies and inspiring a new generation of leaders.
This global trend is gaining meaningful traction in Malaysia, particularly in Penang, where targeted initiatives are creating a more inclusive and supportive environment for women-led businesses. One notable example is the recently concluded PENMentor 5.0 programme, an initiative spearheaded by the Penang Women’s Development Corporation (PWDC). A total of 46 women entrepreneurs were recognised for successfully completing the programme, which was launched in November to offer mentorship, business guidance, and networking opportunities with industry leaders. [1]
PWDC CEO Datuk Ong Bee Leng highlighted the crucial role of mentorship in empowering women and applauded the contributions of industry mentors who shared their time and expertise. She also acknowledged the challenges that many women face in entrepreneurship, such as limited access to funding and professional networks. These barriers, if left unaddressed, can hinder women’s full participation in the economy. [2]
State Social Development Committee Chairman Y.B Lim Siew Khim reaffirmed the Penang state government’s commitment to achieving a bold target—ensuring that 40% of small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in the state are owned by women by the year 2030. Reaching this milestone would mean empowering around 100,000 women entrepreneurs, a goal that underscores the importance of sustained investment in capacity-building programmes like PENMentor. [3]
As the PENMentor initiative demonstrates, nurturing a robust ecosystem for women entrepreneurs is not only a matter of gender equity but also a strategic move toward resilient and inclusive economic growth. By equipping women with the tools, guidance, and confidence they need to succeed, Penang is laying the foundation for a more dynamic and empowered business landscape. With continued support from both the public and private sectors, the future of women entrepreneurship in Penang is set to grow even stronger and more promising.
Footnotes
- Kevin, V. (2025). Saluting women innovators. Bulletin Mutiara, April 16-30. https://www.buletinmutiara.com/download/2025/BuletinMutiaraApr22025-MIX.pdf
- See Footnote 1.
- See Footnote 1.