KUCHING — Women leaders must demonstrate boldness and clarity in vision to play a more significant role in shaping society, said Women, Family and Community Development Minister Datuk Seri Nancy Shukri. Speaking at the opening of the Apprentice Programme: Dayak Women Grassroots Leadership in Governance, Decision-Making and Sustainable Development on Friday, Nancy emphasized that leadership extends beyond politics or holding prominent positions.

“Leadership is about taking care of others and addressing their needs,” she said, urging women to prioritize community welfare in their leadership approaches. She stressed that effective leaders require empathy and must align their intentions with actions that benefit society.

Nancy also highlighted the importance of adaptability and patience in leadership roles. She advised leaders to remain composed when confronting challenges and to exercise discernment about when to speak and when to listen. “A leader does not necessarily need to speak a lot; at times, silence and listening are crucial to learning,” she noted.

Further, Nancy underscored that individuals in leadership positions should aim for concrete achievements that contribute tangible benefits to the community. She described such accomplishments as a form of return on investment resulting from the responsibility entrusted to leaders.

The minister pointed to Dr. Florence Christie’s participation in the Global Alliance for Healthy Cities 2026 Conference in Sydney, Australia, as a demonstration of Sarawakian women’s potential to engage on an international platform. Christie's success serves as an example of how women from the region can rise to global leadership arenas.

The event in Kuching focused on empowering Dayak women at the grassroots level, equipping them with skills in governance, decision-making, and sustainable development to foster community progress. Nancy’s remarks outlined the qualities she believes are essential for women to lead effectively in these roles.