International Women’s Day 2007, 26 Mar 2007
The International Women’s Day 2007 event organised jointly by the Women’s Centre for Change, Penang (WCC) and Penang Adventist Hospital (PAH) on the theme “A Safe Healthy Environment” which took place on Sunday, 25 March at Queensbay Mall, Penang was a resounding success!
Some 800 people from all walks of life including families, individuals, NGOs and disabled groups took part in a one-hour “Walk Against Violence” calling for a safer Penang for all – a safe, healthy environment to live in; on the streets, at home and at work. The young and old alike came with banners, dressed up in ballons and carried placards carrying messages on safety and against violence against women. The 1.5km “Walk Against Violence” along the sea front at Queensbay Mall were accompanied by Tavil drummers, kompang players and young percussionists beating wooden blocks and tins. Throughout the walk, the walkers were chanting slogans like “No to Violence!, Violence is not our culture!”. There was much fun and camaraderie.
After the walk, a three-hour program continued in the North Atrium of the Queensbay Mall.. At the Mall, the guest of honour is YB Dato’ Koay Kay Huah, State Exco for Public Works, Utilities and Transport, representing the Chief Minister of Penang. In her speech, WCC President, Datin Chin Khuan Sui called for increased police patrols and community policing. The audience were entertained with a variety of dances, games, health talk, clown, quiz and a sushi rolling competition. The event ended at 1pm.