Skills training to uplift B40 women in Johor

The Star

30-04-2025

(Seated from left)JPA operations and supervision division assistant general manager Kamaruzaman Munasir, YPKDT chief executive officer Noor Faezah Md Esa and PTP chief financial officer Syahrul Nazri Mohd Sai'on at the launch ceremony. Looking on are JPA board member Dr Mohd Zuhan Mohd Zain (left) and Khairin-Nisa.
THIRTY underprivileged women from Johor, including single mothers and those facing financial hardship, are set to gain skills training and economic empowerment through the newly launched Ratu programme.
Initiated by Port of Tanjung Pelepas (PTP) in collaboration with Johor Port Authority (JPA) and Yayasan Pembangunan Keluarga Darul Ta'zim (YPKDT), Ratu aims to uplift women from the B40 group by equipping them with essential skills for financial independence and entrepreneurship.
Johor women, family and community development committee chairman Khairin-Nisa Ismail praised the collaboration between PTP, JPA and YPKDT, describing it as a strategic partnership focused on creating lasting impact for the community.
'I am confident and optimistic that this synergy between PTP, JPA and YPKDT serves as a catalyst for continued initiatives that transform lives, shaping a more progressive and inclusive society.
'Ratu, in Bahasa Malaysia, stands for Rintis (Pioneer), Aspirasi (Aspiration), Tegar (Resilient), and Unggul (Superior).
'As implied in the name Ratu, we hope to see the women who receive this support rise beyond the B40 category and step forward as future leaders in entrepreneurship,' she said during the launch ceremony.
JPA chairman Rosnan Fathlal said JPA's commitment extended beyond port operations, with a strong focus on education, training and socio-economic development.
'As the regulatory authority overseeing one of Malaysia's most vital maritime gateways, JPA recognises the importance of fostering socio-economic development alongside industrial growth.
'Our collaboration with PTP has long been established, and we are pleased to join hands with YPKDT in this meaningful endeavour.
'By working together, we are able to create a more significant and lasting impact, ensuring that underprivileged women across Johor receive the necessary support and opportunities to achieve financial independence and sustainable livelihoods,' he said.
PTP chairman Tan Sri Che Khalib Mohamad Noh also spoke on PTP's dedication to diversity, highlighting that it had paved the way for women in male-dominated industries.
'Beyond the Ratu initiative, we are also aligning with Ekonomi Madani's aspirations to increase women's participation in the workforce.
'It is a privilege to witness the tangible progress we have made, as PTP is home to Malaysia's first women marine harbour pilot and first rubber-tyred gantry (RTG) crane operator, alongside a growing number of women prime mover drivers,' he said.
As PTP celebrates its 25th anniversary and JPA its 50th, this initiative marks a milestone in their ongoing efforts to uplift communities.
Since its inception, PTP has impacted over 2,120 individuals through its CSR initiatives.
With Ratu, women from Johor Baru, Gelang Patah, Iskandar Puteri and Pasir Gudang now have access to training, resources and support networks that empower them to build a better future for themselves and their families.