Women Directors Training, fully funded

Male-dominated corporate boards are the norm in this country and elsewhere.

Malaysia is taking action to correct this imbalance and has set a target of minimum 30% women in senior decision-making positions and corporate boards by year 2016.

A Women Directors Onboarding Training Programme 2014 starts this month.

The programme is in its third year running, to prepare potential and qualified women for directorship roles in Malaysian public-listed companies.

The first year saw 220 women accordingly trained plus 500 more trained in 2013. Are you among the trainees this year?

The programme is fully funded and organised by NAM Institute for the Empowerment of Women (NIEW) - a training, research and knowledge management agency under the Ministry of Women, Family and Community Development.

Those who have successfully undergone the training get listed at the Women Corporate Directors' Registry, which assists in the placement of board-ready candidates.

Are You Game?

The programme requires that you are female, a Malaysian citizen, age 45 and above, degree holder or professional qualification like LLB, ACCA, etc, and hold senior management post in PLC, GLC, NGO or are entrepreneurs holding post of CEO, CIO, COO, CFO and the likes.

NAWEM receives invitation to attend the training and its participants last year included our Penang chairperson Wendy. "It is beneficial and a great experience even if you don't intend to become an independent director," she said.

One gets to understand the culture of the male-dominated boards, experience board simulation through case studies, join panel discussion with experienced directors, and go through third-party assessment of board readiness, she added.

TRAINING STRUCTURE / MODULE

For more info on the women directors on-boarding programme, visit http://www.wcdregistry.com/. 

Wendy with fellow trainees

Spread Some Love & Cheers; Donate

Happy Chap Goh Mei and Blessed Valentine's Day to all women entrepreneurs and their loved ones!

We share below a 'love letter' giving details of the masquerade ball invitation published earlier this month...it is going to be NOT just a party but, more importantly, a fund-raising event to benefit women entrepreneurs.

The letter is from MAWEM president

On behalf of the National Association of Women Entrepreneurs of Malaysia (NAWEM), and in my capacity as President of the Association, we are happy to inform you that on the occasion of our 20^th Anniversary, we will be organising a dinner as follows:

          Date      :        15^th March 2014 (Saturday)

          Time     :        8.00 p.m.

        Venue   :        Manhattan Ballroom, L 14, 

                        Berjaya Times Square Hotel, KL

For the past two decades, NAWEM has undertaken various programmes to realise the Government’s goals of integrating Women into the Nation’s Economic mainstream, particularly in the area of Business and Entrepreneurship. Such activities includes: 

i.  Conducting training courses

ii. Workshops

iii. Seminars and conferences

iv. Mounting skills training programmes in collaboration with the Private Sectors

v. Participating in CSR initiatives in conjunction with the Business Community

For the last two decades, NAWEM has received valuable support from the Government and from the Private Sector. NAWEM has received the TAX EXEMPTION STATUS under Section 44 (6B) of the Income Tax Act 1967 (effective from 1st January 2011). This TAX EXEMPTION applies to BOTH contributions made to NAWEM, as well as incomes generated by NAWEM.

In this context, we are therefore writing this letter to seek for your kind consideration to 

a) Sponsor a Table / Tables

b) Place an Advertisement in the Souvenir Programme

Although we have set the Table prices, NAWEM welcomes additional contributions that would further support our fund raising effort.

NAWEM hopes to be able to raise sufficient funds to enable us to carry out all the planned programmes and activities, particularly to expand the existing Training facilities, and establish a full-fledged Training Centre for Women Entrepreneurs.

On behalf of my Executive Committee Members, we hope that your goodself and your company will be able to support NAWEM in realizing its Objectives of nurturing and developing Women Entrepreneurs, particularly within the SME Sector.

For your convenience, we are attaching a Reply Slip for your action.

Thank you so much for your support and contribution, and we look forward to welcoming you and your guests on March 15, 2014.

Thank you.

Regards

Sarojini Ruth

Organising Chairperson/President

NAWEM

p.s. Please email us at nawempg@gmail.com for the gala tickets and 'reply slip' mentioned in the letter.

Masquarade party for women entrepreneurs

It's NAWEM big anniversary and the celebration this time is open to friends and guests as well.

Do join us!
NAWEM Penang holds ticket stock. Get yours now and let's have a ball this March!!

Below, we share some highlights from the NAWEM Penang + Customs Penang-organised GST Seminar last month. It was a full-house event that attracted over 300 attendees (we had to turn away quite a number of people too).

 

Several NAWEM officials from Kuala Lumpur also came to support the seminar held at Wisma Kastam in Seberang Jaya.

The response was awesome and the Q & A session at the end saw a lot of participation. There were requests for more such seminars to be held, particularly industry-specified GST seminars. The participants appreciated much that the speakers were all Custom officers - getting the facts straight from the horse's mouth.

We applauded most the hard work of our energetic organising chairperson Ai Li. The seminar also helped sell copies of NAWEM eco-diaries, the proceed of which goes to support Tabung Amal NAWEM.

For the big event of second quarter 2014, NAWEM Penang plans on a SME Bank Clinic to help those looking for business loan and want a hands-on guidance on how to go about getting one. Do check back here for more details coming up. Email nawempg@gmail.com if you are keen to participate.

Goods & Services Tax; Malaysia

The Malaysian GST (Goods and Services Tax) is scheduled for implementation by 2015 with inflation, as estimated by some analysts, accelerating to 4% from the current 2.1% annual average.

Are you curious about how the 6% GST would impact your businesses and you?

NAWEM Penang will start its New Year 2014 with the above one-day seminar, and do mark your calendar and register yourself by Dec 27.

The event is organised with full support of the local Royal Malaysian Customs Department, which provides venue, speakers and food - thus, registration is necessary.

Some 300 people are expected and a bit more is okay as the hall can accommodate up to 400. However, the participants should be comfortable to ensure better learning, right? So grab your seat today - first come first serve!

To date, some 150 have registered. We look forward to see you all in Seberang Jaya for some great networking too.

Come prepared with questions you want answered by the authorities like:

• Why GST?
• What are the salient features of GST in Malaysia?
• How to file a GST Return?
• What are the transitional issues?
• How to prepare your business for GST? (prices, cash flow, business process, computer system, etc)

This GST talk is held in line with NAWEM's objectives to:

• Act as liaison between the Government of Malaysia, State, and local agencies and organisations as well as external agencies and bodies
• Conduct seminars, workshops, training programmes and conferences
• Provide counselling and constituency services
• Promote, propagate and enhance women's capabilities and potentials. 

NAWEM Pg members with Penang Customs senior officers. Seated centre is the director Dato' Zulkifli Yahaya

Again, to register, click on the poster above or go here http://ow.ly/rlRzZ. Direct any inquiries to the organising chairperson Ai Li Yeap: hp 017 582 3699, ailiyeap@gmail.com / nawempg@gmail.com or Fax: 04-538 8471

* * *

You are also welcome to join NAWEM Penang's Christmas Lunch on Dec 28. Simply bring along a gift (worth RM50 minimum) for exchange and to spread the holiday cheers!
Ongoing details shall be posted at its Facebook fan page.    

Women CEO Korean Trade Mission

Ten Korean companies will be in Kuala Lumpur this month, looking to promote their products to Malaysia and the Southeast Asian region, to explore business opportunities and to share technology.

It will be an exclusive event, meeting their top officials on 1 on 1 basis, and confirmation has been made a month earlier for the limited seats available. NAWEM members received their online invitation and registered through its secretariat.

The Korean participants include cosmetic manufacturers like Ecoment, which makes the Vieco brand natural cosmetic, and Eunsung that produces makeup tools and accessories and is known for its Silstar brand silk pore cleansing brush. 

Korean cosmetic products

J World Tech that makes the popular Lovpe brand hair curling tong will also be there to promote its other home appliances like food blender, etc. So are Aphome, famous for its handmade jewellery and accessories, and pomegranate + wild berry health juice manufacturer Health Love.  

Other participating Korean companies are Seshin (die-cast aluminum cookware), Rollpack (home vacuum sealer Foodkeeper), Clear Lighting Tech (LED lights), Heemang (multi mobile charger), and Care (adult diaper and pad as well as sheet for pet).

They all are part of the Gyeonggi Small and Medium Business Centre. Gyeonggi is the biggest state in South Korea with the largest concentration of brilliant product manufacturers and high technology companies like Samsung, LG, Hyundai and KIA.

The one-day trade event will take place on Thursday, Nov 21, at the JW Marriott Hotel, KL. Interpreter service is provided for non-Korean participants, so no worries...

The organiser, Gyeonggi Business Centre Kuala Lumpur (www.gtrade.or.kr/kuala), is the Southeast Asian business hub representing the Gyeonggi government to assist Korean SMEs to penetrate the SEA markets through the promotion of regular trade missions with local buyers and specific trade meetings.    

The Koreans are looking for potential local business partners to assist them in distributing/manufacturing their products either through exclusive marketing, joint venture or investment into Malaysia set-ups. 
 

We wish all the participants a fruitful meeting and happy networking!

Hands-on Business Loan Clinic

It takes efforts to get others to open their wallet and give you money, especially money to expand your business. There are procedure to follow and documentation to get ready; and SME Bank Clinic is one place where you can learn first-hand how to secure such funding.

NAWEM has organised several SME Bank Clinics in Kuala Lumpur and NAWEM Penang wants to extend similar service here, to benefit members and other women entrepreneurs up north. 




 Entrepreneurs and business owners must prepare the following to attend the SME Bank Clinic:

1) A full set of MOA, forms 24,49,9,442) Directors' IC-copy and profile(s)
3) Company profile
4) 3 years audited account (most important)
5) Cash flow projection
6) Project plan
7) Other supporting documents (cost-benefit analysis) as per consultation, according to industry and loan objectives (machine, new outlet, etc.)
8) Application form

SME Bank will conduct the clinic for minimum of 5 participants. Register yourself with the organising chairperson Jac Lynn (016-4109048 or jacquelinelaherballe@yahoo.com). Help her to quickly get the number, then she can set up the date for the clinic in the 4th Quarter.

Better still, come meet Jac Lynn in person this Saturday, Sept 28 during NAWEM Penang sharing session, where she will speak on "Make-up for Business." Expect some tips on how to create a more professional appearance & great first impression to help you garner more business!

Some more sharing by two Penang members who attended the recent NAWEM lecture on "Crowdfunding - what is it and is in it for you?"

Date     :	28 Sept 2013 (Saturday)
Time    :	10.00 a.m – 12.00 p.m. (Committee Meeting) 12.00 noon – 1.00 p.m (Sharing Session) 1.00 p.m. – 2.00 p.m. ( Lunch Networking)

  
The venue is at NAWEM Penang's shared premise at One Precinct, 1A-2-01, Lengkok Mayang Pasir, Bayan Baru, 11900 Penang (near Bayan Baru market and Sunshine Square).

Successful Women & Wine this June

Five from NAWEM Penang were among the 1,100 delegates from 72 countries, who attended the Global Women's Summit held in Kuala Lumpur earlier this month. By comparison, the 2012 summit in Athens, Greece gathered 800 participants.

Delegates to Global Women's Summit 2013 in Kuala Lumpur

NAWEM Penang committee meeting this month (June 29) will be a time for them to re-live exciting moments connecting first hand with numerous successful women from all over the world.

After the committee meeting, vice-chairperson Catherine will do a 10-minute sharing on the summit with all members and guests. This is great opportunity for women entrepreneurs, who didn't attend, to find out and decide if they would want to commit to next year's Global Women's Summit in Paris.

The Kuala Lumpur summit, among others, featured as a speaker Malaysian Amanda Nasim who, as a 19-year old student, won the master franchise for Tutty Fruity Europe and opened her first outlet in London over a year ago. Read her story here

NAWEM Penang representatives with Amanda Nasim (centre)

Other successful women, who shared their wisdom with the participants, included IBM Thailand MD Parnsiree Amatayakul, Bank Consortium of Hong Kong CEO Lau Ka Shi and France BETC founder Mercedes Erra.

Join us this Saturday to hear what are the take-away wisdom gained by the summit participants from NAWEM Penang. More over, we have a new meeting venue on the mainland for a change, and for a good reason. We shall meet in Bukit Mertajam at Fine Wine Resources (near Tesco) and learn from the resident wine expert Loo Lip Moon.

Date:  29 June 2013 (Saturday)
Time: 10am - 12.30pm Committee Meeting
          1.15pm - 3.30pm Sharing Session (open to guests)

Speakers: Catherine Heah & wine expert Loo Lip Mun

Venues: 
Committee Meeting
Straight Talk Business Services
30-F, 2nd Floor, Taman Jaya,
Jalan Kulim, Bukit Mertajam

Lunch/Sharing Session
Fine Wine Resources
27, Lorong Seri Impian 2
Taman Seri Impian
Bukit Mertajam, Pulau Pinang


P.S. There probably be more sharing from the June 18th Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA) Penang Lunch Networking Session. Three NAWEM Penang members had attended it.

The networking lunch was for representatives from prominent agencies and key players in the local industry. This is where they shared ideas on future direction, issues and challenges of the industry and got updated on the latest development in the industry.

Besides strengthening networking across industries, MIDA uses such occasion to identify the assistance needed especially in coordinating all facilities including grants and funds.


BTW, NAWEM Penang has confirmed our industry visit to MIDA Penang on July 3rd at 10am. Its director Ms Azhana Mohamed Saleh will be hosting.

Both members and guests are welcome to join this industry visit. Simply register yourself first with the organising chairperson Wendy. Email her at wendy@penexpo.com.my to state your name, company and the questions you want to post to MIDA.

Info on MIDA is available at www.mida.gov.my and its Penang address is below:

Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA)
Unit 4.03, 4th Floor
Menara Boustead Penang
39, Jalan Sultan Ahmad Shah
10050 Penang

How to Market on Facebook, etc

Another interesting sharing is due this Saturday, May 18, following NAWEM Penang monthly committee meeting.

The speaker is Jason Gan of Tribeup, a digital marketing agency & innovation lab and Instapps, DIY toolset software for online sellers to setup full functioning Facebook stores.

Instapps Social Store is a full fledge Facebook ecommerce system that sits on your Facebook page. It allows your fans to browse and search your products effectively at a fully functional shopping cart.

Your customers can choose to pay via Paypal or opt for manual payment or online banking. The whole Paypal transaction process will be done within Facebook environment. If a customer choose to pay via manual payment, they can come back to update payment at the Purchase Management Panel, which you, the seller, will be notified immediately. Instapps also feature a full fledge inventory system to help you take care of your stockkeeping headaches, plus another 20 over cool features.

Mark your calendar if you are keen on learning more about Facebook promotion, marketing and sales!

Date     :	18 May 2013 (Saturday)
Time    :	10.00 a.m – 12.00 p.m. (Committee Meeting) 12.00 noon – 1.00 p.m (Sharing Session by  Jason                               Gan (open to guests)                        1.00 p.m. – 2.00 p.m. ( Networking session )

  

The venue is at NAWEM Penang's shared premise at One Precinct, 1A-2-01, Lengkok Mayang Pasir, Bayan Baru, 11900 Penang (near Bayan Baru market and Sunshine Square).


In April, we had Jason Teh, a certified retail coach and CEO of two companies, who shared on SoLoMo Marketing that targets online-mobile users.


The following is a brief on what NAWEM Penang members had been up to recently.


> Three members and two guests were in KL for the promotional conference on the 10th China-Asean Expo 2013, which is scheduled for 20-24 September in Nanning, China. They returned excited to share 'this very valuable information' to members and all.


MATRADE is organising the Malaysian participation in the 10th CAEXPO, a major annual event that has been credited as an important platform for the promotion of trade and investment between Malaysia and China.The expo theme this year is 'Regional Cooperation and Development: New Opportunities, New Impetus and New Stage.'

There is an incentive of RM10,000 to Malaysians who are interested to take up booths at the expo and two NAWEM members are keen to do so.

Chairperson Wendy recommended members to attend such promotional conference to better understand the incentives offered by MATRADE for promoting Malaysian products to the overseas market.


>Wendy also attended the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Regional Forum in KL, where an Indonesian delegate highlighted that not all countries provide subsidy for participation in the forum. So Malaysians are the lucky lot because they have such subsidy.


>Five members took part in the 13th Penang Career & Post Graduate Expo at PISA. The organiser PenExpo Event (via Wendy) had sponsored a double booth for NAWEM Penang. Some great results were obtained.


Firstly, two lady entrepreneurs were attracted to join NAWEM, one filled up the application form right away :), mostly thanks to Pauline.


Swe Ee received 50 applications for her company special programme, Jac got 15 job applications for her business with one successful candidate, Jace and Ai Li promoted their company products and services.

Jac said the expo was a good platform to get job candidates and to showcase your business to audience in the northern Malaysia. She recommended that more NAWEM members should participate in future expos.

SME Corp Penang Visit

Get ready to visit SME Corp Penang this month and learn face-to-face the business incentives they have to offer to entrepreneurs and women entrepreneurs in particular. The visit is scheduled for 13 May 2013 starting 2.30pm.

This follows NAWEM Penang's fruitful industry visit to the Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (MATRADE) Penang office last month where, among others, the members gained a better understanding of the market development grants it provides to different types of business.

Member Chuat Tien said: "Matrade is indeed a source of both technical and financial support besides providing useful advice based on its vast experience and contact throughout the world."

As for the Small and Medium Enterprise (SME) Corp, currently our member Jacquelin has the pleasure of working with them on the franchising project of her La Herballe skin care and beauty business.

Both NAWEM Penang members and guests are invited to join this industry visit, and take the opportunity to find out more what are the various services, business incentives and assistance available from SME Corp to entrepreneurs.  

You need to sign up by May 9 and provide the organising chairperson Wendy some basic info to ensure a smooth and successful visit. You can email her at wendy@penexpo.com.my to give your:

1. name
2. telephone number
3. email address
4. company name
5. nature of business
6. questions for SME Corp and/or information needed

On the day of visit, please gather at least 15 minutes early at the below address:

SME Corp Malaysia
No.16, Lorong Perindustrian Bukit Minyak 2
Taman Perindustrian Bukit Minyak
14100 Simpang Ampat
Pulau Pinang

Cheers and hope to see you there!

Online Marketing & Mobile Users

By 2015 most Internet traffic is expected to come from mobile devices. How can businesses target, engage and turn those online into your customers?

Retail coach Jason Teh would give you some answers this Saturday, April 27. He will be the guest speaker for NAWEM Penang sharing session. Jason of Biz Coach Firm Sdn Bhd shall tackle the subject of 'How to increase via SNS your sales, profit & customers without marketing budget increase.'

So please mark your calendar:

Date     :	27  April 2013 (Saturday)
Time    :	10.00 a.m – 12.00 p.m. (Committee Meeting) 12.00 noon – 1.00 p.m (Sharing Session by                          Jason Teh, open to guests) 1.00 p.m. – 2.00 p.m. ( Networking session )

  
The venue is at NAWEM Penang's shared premise at One Precinct, 1A-2-01, Lengkok Mayang Pasir, Bayan Baru, 11900 Penang (near Bayan Baru market and Sunshine Square).


Below is another sharing worth going to, especially for those having to deal with difficult people. Most of us have to do so, at one point or another. The difficult ones can be our parent, sibling, child, spouse, boss, neighbour, friend or sworn enemy. Hehe...

Tackling the subject matter would Arun Doshi, a retired CEO, trainer, mentor and professional life coach, who enjoys sharing his insights with enthusiasm and humour. His talk would expand your understanding of ego and the skill set required in dealing with difficult people.

The date with Mr Doshi is 2.30pm, Sat 27.4.2013 at the Oasis of Peace, Bayan Baru Brahma Kumaris at No. 36, Solok Kampong Jawa.


If you are in the export business, the following may interest you:

Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (MATRADE) half-day seminar on "Export Trade Disputes" on Tuesday, April 30 in Kuala Lumpur. 

The objective of this seminar is to equip exporters on how to avoid any possible and future disputes in their export business by using correct documents, internationally accepted and the correct terms of payment and terms of sale like INCOTERMS. 

Register online at http://www.matrade.gov.my/en/online-applications/matrades-exporters-training-programme/470 .  The closing date to register is on 29 April 2013.

Riveting Read on Improving Your Business Page

 From time to time, we shall share some fascinating read found elsewhere, which content should be helpful to the entrepreneurs. The following is such a piece as businesses big and small nowadays use SNS as part of their marketing and branding.

Quote: "Post content that interests your followers and less about how great your company is."

Click through the slides to learn more:


 

Top 10 Tips from Best LinkedIn Company Pages of 2012 from LinkedIn

Business Incorporation & other attractions

Managing director Richard Oon of ConsultNet Tax Services will join the women of NAWEM Penang this Saturday, March 23rd. He will share on the basics of business incorporation, benefits and related issues such as taxes and asset protection.

Richard's sharing session starts at noon.

Don't fret that you'd get hungry for lunch as refreshment is prepared by NAWEM Penang as usual during its meeting, which normally takes place every last Saturday of the month. However, this month NAWEM will hold its AGM on Saturday, March 30th. So its Penang affiliates shall meet a week earlier.

So mark your calendar accordingly, especially if you're looking to faster grow your business organisation this year.

     

Date     :	23rd  March 2013 (Saturday)
Time    :	9.00 a.m – 10.00 a.m. (Breakfast ) 10.00 a.m – 12.00 p.m. (Committee Meeting) 12.00 noon – 1.00 p.m (Sharing Session by                          Richard Oon, open to guests) 1.00 p.m. – 2.00 p.m. ( Networking session )

  
The venue is at NAWEM Penang's shared premise at One Precinct, 1A-2-01, Lengkok Mayang Pasir, Bayan Baru, 11900 Penang (near Bayan Baru market and Sunshine Square).

* * *

As mentioned earlier, NAWEM will hold its 20th AGM and the first 50 members who register will receive door gifts. Registration starts at 9am this March 30th at its Secretariat, at Lot 13, Rumah Puspanita, Jalan Hose, Kuala Lumpur.

While waiting for the AGM to begin at 10am, you can browse and shop at the concourse, where members would have product exhibition/sale. NAWEM trainees, who have participated in the baking and tailoring courses, would also be offering their services and selling their products.

Those who want to participate in the exhibition must register with NAWEM Secretariat by March 25th. A confirmed participant, Elit Purnama, would be offering free any first piece of garment + a second piece for sale at RM10 minimum. All proceed is to be donated to NAWEM charity fund TAN.

Following the AGM, speaker Cassandra Lee would share on 'Tummy Flattening' at noon, and lunch would follow.

* * *

 4 April 2013 (Thursday)

A morning briefing on 'Global Purchasing Centre (GPC) in China' at Menara MATRADE in Kuala Lumpur starting at 8.30am. Participation is free and you must register by April 2nd.

It is a perfect opportunity for businesses looking to export to China. Selected products to participate in this programme will be promoted via seven GPC in key China cities including Beijing, Zhangjiagang, Chongqing, Guangzhou, Chengdu, Shenyang and Wuhan, and thereafter to be distributed to more than 100 retailers throughout China.


  10 April 2013 (Wednesday)

NAWEM Penang will visit MATRADE Penang in Seberang Perai. The appointment is at 3pm. Come have a face-to-face meeting with its director Nyaee Ayup, who will share some of the incentives MATRADE has to offer to entrepreneurs.

10-11 April 2013

Women Entrepreneurs Synergy Network, a programme by SME Corp Malaysia, to be held in Subang. This year's programme carries the theme of 'Retail Transformation toward Economic Growth' and comprises seminar, workshop, networking and trade visit.

 The programme is free and you must register by March 29th. Participation is limited to 5 members of each association. It is designed to provide basic exposure to the retail business, up-to-date technology and best practices.

 

Anniversary Charm Bracelet

To celebrate a 40th anniversary...four pretty little charms, made of pure silver and coated with platinum, stringed onto a matching bracelet that would daintily adorn any woman's hand. 
   

The piece is designed by NAWEM-PAN member Amee Philips (photo at left) of the famed Penang jewellery house. The award winner and internationally known designer collaborated with Shangri-La's Rasa Sayang to create a special something to commemorate the ruby anniversary of this Penang foremost resort and spa.




 What is the charm of the bracelet?

Well, simply wearing and flashing it while visiting the resort will earn you discount at certain outlets. What's more, the bracelet with the little charms depicting Rasa Sayang outstanding features is to be given away free to resort customers.

The details will be available at the official unveiling of the 40th anniversary charm bracelet this Saturday Dec 15. There will be a jewellery show by Amee Philips , too.


Come along PAN and show support to our fellow member!










The party starts at 2.30pm at the resort's Spice Market Cafe terrace, where you may enjoy its scrumptious Scone High Tea while drinking in the lush green ambiance of Rasa's manicured gardens...just like the one below. COOL, huh!

   
 

December Entrepreneur Events

Dec 29
PAN final business meeting of the year + holiday gathering with lunch sponsored by madam chairperson. Attendees are encouraged to bring a gift each (worth minimum RM20 or more, if you wish) for the holiday gift exchange and to spread cheers.

We shall be meeting at PAN new shared premise in One Precinct Penang in Bayan Baru.
The address is: 1A-2-02 @ One Precinct (1147),
                        Lengkok Mayang Pasir.

The sharing session at noon shall feature member Linda Cheoy, speaking on 'choosing a good loan.' Come learn some tips...most businesses can benefit from loan at some point in time :)

The agenda is as follows:

10.00am - 12 noon  Committee meeting

12 noon -12.30pm   Sharing by member/guest (non-members welcome)

12.30pm - 1pm        Q & A

1pm - 2.30pm          Lunch-cum-networking

Dec 13
NAWEM has 20 seats at today's Chairman Power Breakfast with the Prime Minister in Kuala Lumpur. NAM Institute for the Empowerment of Women (NIEW), an agency under the Ministry of Women, Family and community Development, is the event organiser.

Dec 7
Inaugural Meeting for the "Staying Connected" Committee of the Malaysia In-Country APEC Forum 2012 in NAWEM office at Rumah Puspanita in Kuala Lumpur.


Dec 4 - 6
8th World Islamic Economic Forum (WIEF) in Johor Bahru. NAWEM has 5 complimentary seats for the WIEF Business Women Forum on Dec 5 that features several intriguing sessions including on:

Women in Technology: Fostering Interest and Overcoming Obstacles.

Business Innovation: Chasing Success on a Shoestring

CEO Panel Women Entrepreneurs: Catalyst for Change


Dec 1
Full day seminar titled ‘Merancang Kejayaan Perniagaan dari Aspek Kewangan dan Undang-Undang’ in Seremban, Negeri Sembilan. NAWEM has invitation for 20 members. This is a Ministry of Domestic Trade, Co-operatives and Consumerism event, organised together with Peniagawati Malaysia.

Sharing by Women Entrepreneurs

For November sharing, PAN member Jacqueline of La Herballe beauty care will relate her company's experience participating in numerous expositions.

This is Jac

Most recent, La Herballe was among the exhibitors at last week Gift, Premium & Stationery Fair as well as the Penang Career & Post Graduate Expo held at the Penang International Sports Arena (PISA). By now, for sure her team are experts at getting the most out of such events, what are the do's and dont's when you are promoting products, building brand and franchise, etc.





New PAN member Jace will also be sharing on the topic of 'choosing the sex of your baby.' Jace is the director of Choice Baby Family Planning, a company that provides baby gender selection services.

Jace Lim

The company uses what is called the 'Choice Method', which Jace said is simple, safe and 100% natural for both mother and baby, without genetic manipulation, any clinical or surgical treatment. It has been used by thousand of mothers with over 98% success rate.

Aren't you curious now?
 




We all can learn much from these two growing women entrepreneurs. Come and meet them.

Kindly take note that NAWEM-PAN sharing session follows its monthly committee meeting, held every LAST SATURDAY of the month, and the Agenda is as follows:

10.00am - 12 noon  Committee meeting

12 noon -12.30pm   Sharing by member/guest (non-members welcome)

12.30pm - 1pm        Q & A

1pm - 2.30pm          Lunch-cum-networking with guests

Note the venue below and be part of PAN sharing & networking. 

C-5-1, Bay Avenue, Lorong Bayan Indah 3, 11900 Bayan Lepas, Penang.

(next to Eastin Hotel, near Queensbay Mall)

Also, starting December PAN official meeting venue will move to One Precinct Penang - a new seven-storey office-cum-retail complex in Bayan Baru (near Suntech). Our shared premise is at Precinct East 2nd floor. The address is 1A-2-02 @ One Precinct (1147), Lengkok Mayang Pasir, 11950, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia.

November Events

NAWEM-PAN member Wendy Wong at PenExpo Events is super busy nowadays with two up coming back-to-back expositions her company is holding at PISA (Penang International Sporst Arena) this month.

A tired & still smiling Wendy at the last expo.

PenExpo is known for its big expos that draw crowd of 20,000 - 30,000 people, and the exhibitor booths cost several thousands Ringgit each. Thanks to PenExpo and Wendy, women entrepreneurs from NAWEM often get to participate for free in such expos.

The two coming up events are the second Gift, Premium & Stationery Fair 2012 from Nov 15-17 and to be followed by the 12th Penang Career & Post Graduate Expo on Nov 17 & 18. Come find us among other Malaysian and international exhibitors at the events ya!

Participating PAN members at a previous expo.

...and the visiting crowd

Of course, you can just come for the expo daily top lucky draw prize of the new iPad, and to earn one or two of the 10,000 free Firefly Air tickets on offer.

If you or someone you know is looking for a job or want to change career, the career expo brings to you some 10,000 opportunities including for overseas postings...there must one or two that meet your preference.

If you rather take a break from work and go for further study, the expo post graduate section also let you easily browse through the different options available.

Company functions normally peak towards the year-end. Some functions require that you prepare unique gift items and souvenirs. Pick and order yours at the Gift, Premium & Stationery Fair.

Details of both expos, the list of exhibitors and their detail offerings are posted on https://www.facebook.com/penexpoevents and www.penexpo.com.my. Btw, PenExpo will also hold the Johor Career & Post Graduate Expo on Jan 12 & 13 next year.

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There are more up coming events that offer business opportunities and learning, networking, training, etc. Some are free to eligible entrepreneurs while others charge substantial fees. However, many of them have free seats allotted to NAWEM members via our secretariat.


Nov 20
Half-day Street Smart 'MBA' for Entrepreneurs (SME CEO Forum 2012) in Petaling Jaya - for clearer understanding of how business works holistically, how to take complex decisions and operate in fast moving and competitive environment. NAWEM has 2 complimentary seats.


Nov 25
Entrepreneurship Programme with SME Bank in Kuala Lumpur - provides exposure and information about the role and financing opportunities offered by SME Bank to women entrepreneurs. NAWEM has 25 seats. 

Nov 26-30
Women as Creative Tourism Players, a regional course organised by NAM Institute for Empowerment of Women (NIEW) and to be held in Bali. NIEW is sponsoring the course except for air fare. NAWEM is allotted three applicants. 

 
Nov 28
Incoming Buying Mission: Intrade Malaysia 2012 in Kuala Lumpur for new and active Malaysian exporters. It is organised by MATRADE (Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation) with expected presence of some 500 international buyers.

Nov 29
Creativity & Innovation 
Key to Survival & Growth of SMEs
HRDF-sponsored programme in Petaling Jaya.

PAN is 3 Years Young!

Come November 2012, Penang Affiliates of NAWEM will be three years old and members had an early anniversary celebration in Kuala Lumpur recently, together with fellow women entrepreneurs from NAWEM headquarters.

And what a celebration it was for PAN members during that three-day two-night trip! We much appreciate that many NAWEM members, busy business women that they are, had made time for us and on week days too. They graciously became our tour guides, committee meeting coaches, lunch and dinner hosts and party pals.

We felt their generosity, camaraderie, warmth and sisterhood, which made me think of bunch of proud mamas showering gifts on her only child's birthday. Ah! it's good that PAN is NAWEM's first child, so to speak :)

At the end of the trip we were left feeling like children pampered on their birthday; from the various treats, bagful of wonderful souvenirs and fun prizes to take home and the warm, happy memories made. There were also lessons learned and inspiration taken, friendship forged and strengthened.

NAWEM President Sarojini Ruth addressing the gathering.

Fun and camaraderie at the Monkey Bar... anniversary dinner party hosted by NAWEM deputy president Puan Sri Dr Susan Cheah.

We sang, we danced, we had fun contests and won prizes, talked like only women could and made friends, ate and drank...and waited for the host to turn up. She was held back by work and bad traffic and couldn't make it. We had loads of fun anyhow!

Puan Sri Susan felt bad for having missed the party and made it up by treating us the next day to lunch. Awesome. A relaxed and leisurely meal, plus great conversation, at the Atrium, Sunway Pyramid certainly left many in joyous mood.

PAN chairperson Swe Ee was especially pleased that, with this anniversary trip, all in her committee had finally visited NAWEM Secretariat. The office is very cozy and has a feel of that of a home especially in the kitchenette.

It was serious business though when come to the meeting proper. We thank president Saro and her exco for sitting through the meeting with PAN committee, and for the coaching so as to better standardise the procedure. Also, thank you Mayi of the Secretariat for the professionally prepared minutes. We all learned and shall strive to do better.

Perhaps the greatest learning curve during the trip occurred while visiting Ken-Rich Chemical factory in Shah Alam. 

This CEO dresses very comfortably to work.

NAWEM member Hooi Lai Lin fascinated and inspired with recount of her success story; building the business with just RM5,000 in pooled capital amidst the mid-80's Malaysian economic crisis.

Her factory makes household and personal care products and today it supplies, among others, the house brands for international supermarket and retail outlet chains. Ken-Rich Chemical has also recently expanded to Penang to start making new personal care product lines.

Waiting for lunch to be served at South Sea Seafood in Subang.

 After feeding our mind and soul, Lai Lin took us out and fed our tummies as well. She sent us off with bagful of goodies each. 




Like Wendy said, the generosity we received was very encouraging, made us want to achieve more and grow as entrepreneurs, and take our turn at being gracious host and equally encouraging to other fellow women entrepreneurs.

For now, it has just gotten easier for the PAN members to answer that question of 'How have I benefited from NAWEM?' : ) What say you, gals? Comment below or leave some words in the cbox at right.