By WU VUIDE
KOTA KINABALU: The Sabah Women Entrepreneurs and Professionals Association (Swepa) marked a major milestone with its 30th annual general meeting (AGM), celebrating three decades of empowering women entrepreneurs and professionals in Sabah.
Its president, Betty Epin described the 30th AGM as a testament to the association’s strength, resilience and growth since its establishment three decades ago.
She said the current leadership had focused on building upon the strong foundation laid by previous leaders while positioning Swepa to thrive in an increasingly digital and global economy.
“Thirty years ago, Swepa was a seed planted by courageous women who believed that women deserved a powerful, collective voice. Today, we stand proud as an institution,” she said.
Betty said the association’s work over the past year centred on three core pillars: economic empowerment and capacity building, strategic networking and visibility, and community impact and sustainability.
She said these priorities had been translated into practical initiatives over the past 12 months.
Among the key achievements was the successful implementation of the Program Pemerkasaan Ekonomi Komuniti Bandar (PEKB) 2026 outreach programme in Sandakan, which equipped B40 participants with technical skills and business knowledge to improve household incomes and encourage grassroots entrepreneurship.
She said Swepa had also organised leadership and empowerment training programmes that enhanced the association’s professional branding and public profile.
At the same time, the association strengthened its relationships with state agencies, government ministries, corporate organisations and non-governmental organisations, reinforcing Swepa’s role as a key stakeholder and trusted voice in discussions on Sabah’s economic development.
Beyond professional advocacy, Betty said Swepa remained committed to strengthening ties among its members through various activities, including Christmas, Chinese New Year and Hari Raya celebrations, as well as outings to Kinarut and a members’ retreat in Sipitang.
She acknowledged that government cost-cutting measures had affected many people and said the association hoped to help members achieve greater financial independence while continuing to deliver value to the community.
Betty also highlighted the role of the Swepa Toastmasters Club (STMC), describing it as the educational arm of the association that continued to empower members through monthly meetings focused on communication and leadership development.
Looking ahead, she said Swepa would continue building on its 30-year legacy by supporting women to lead with confidence, grow together and achieve greater success.
Betty (seated centre), with 75 Swepa members who attended the 30th AGM.
