Universiti Kuala Lumpur (UniKL) and the Institute for Rural Advancement (INFRA) strengthened efforts to develop digitally capable women leaders through the Executive Programme on Women’s Transformation and Empowerment Series 3 (Central Zone) 2026, held from 4 to 6 August 2026 in Ipoh, Perak.
The three-day programme brought together 80 women from Selangor and Perak, comprising community leaders, Village Development and Security Committee representatives (JPKK/JPKKP), youth leaders and emerging women leaders at the grassroots level.
Organised by the Advancement and Continuing Education (ACE) of Universiti Kuala Lumpur Royal College of Medicine Perak (UniKL RCMP) and UniKL’s Centre for Women Advancement and Leadership (CWAL), in collaboration with INFRA, the initiative focused on strengthening women’s leadership, entrepreneurship, and digital competencies.
The programme supports efforts under the Ministry of Rural and Regional Development (KKDW) to empower women and strengthen grassroots leadership, particularly by preparing participants to navigate opportunities and challenges arising from rapid digital transformation.
A key focus was the practical use of artificial intelligence (AI). Participants were introduced to AI business assistants and AI-driven digital marketing, providing them with practical knowledge to strengthen entrepreneurship, business promotion and community-based economic activities.
The training also addressed emotional intelligence, effective communication, self-confidence, self-leadership and the role of women in digital communities.
These areas were designed to help participants become more effective and resilient leaders within their respective communities.
Recognising the growing risks associated with increased digital participation, the programme also incorporated cybersecurity, AI and scam awareness. Participants gained important knowledge on protecting themselves, their businesses and their communities from online threats and fraudulent activities.
Hands-on activities further enabled participants to create digital branding materials and explore how technology can be applied to improve business visibility and communication. The approach ensured that digital literacy was translated into practical skills that could be applied beyond the classroom.
The closing ceremony on 6 August 2026 was officiated by Puan Fairus Yahaya, Chief Assistant Director of the Centre of Excellence for Youth, Women and Human Development, INFRA.
The programme contributes particularly to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including SDG 4: Quality Education through lifelong and digital learning, SDG 5: Gender Equality through women’s leadership and empowerment, and SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth through entrepreneurship and digital business capabilities.
It also supports SDG 9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure through practical AI and digital technology adoption, SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities by expanding access to digital skills among rural communities, and SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals through collaboration between UniKL and INFRA in advancing sustainable community development.
