Melaka polls: Pakatan pledges grants for women traders, proposes more childcare centres, says Adly Zahari

Melaka's Pakatan Harapan (PH) chairman Adly Zahari announced a series of proposals for the 16th state election, including granting financial assistance to women traders and increasing the number of government-operated childcare centres. These initiatives aimed to strengthen household incomes in the state. The grants, part of the 'Melaka Rumah Kita' manifesto's Women Empowerment aspiration, were designed to cater to traders' needs, such as purchasing equipment, increasing stock, and expanding production capacity.

Adly emphasized that parents needing childcare services would find it challenging to utilize income-generating opportunities without proper support. He stressed that location, affordability, operating hours, and safety were crucial factors in designing these facilities. Additionally, PH sought to help women in small businesses and SMEs by providing tailored support based on their specific requirements, such as equipment, stock, and production capacity.

Recipients would be chosen based on eligibility, reasonable plans for fund utilization, and guidance on cost management and marketing. Public meetings revealed a need for marketing training and technical support, which PH deemed essential for women entrepreneurs in the SME sector to build stronger businesses, retain customers, and contribute to their families' financial stability.

Women constitute a significant proportion of Melaka voters, and PH aimed to ensure their access to childcare and reliable support resources to maintain their active role in the country's economy.