The Chamber brought together more than 100 like-minded professionals both women and men to the launch of the BMCC’s Women In Leadership Network. This network will thus aim to bring together like-minded professionals both women and men to develop and deliver programmes to inspire, empower and advocate women in leadership.
Held at The Majestic Hotel Kuala Lumpur, the event kicked off with welcome remarks by BMCC Executive Director, Jennifer Lopez followed by special remarks from Natalie Black, Her Majesty’s Trade Commissioner for Asia Pacific who addressed the current climate for women in business.
“There is a clear business case for more organisations that involve women in decision making,” said Natalie. “Empowering women and girls will contribute to 28 trillion of the global GDP by 2025 according to McKinsey. Companies in the top quartile for gender, diversity on their executive teams are 21% more likely to experience above average profitability than companies in the fourth quartile.” Natalie Black went on to share experiences in her career thus far, and what she hopes to see accomplished in the future for women in business and leadership.
A panel session of business leaders ensued, where Natalie Black was joined by Andrew Sill (Managing Director, Country Head of Commercial Banking and BMCC Chairman, HSBC Malaysia), Nik Tasha Nik Kamaruddin, (Client Organisation Director, IPSOS Sdn Bhd and BMCC Board Member), Selina Yeop Jr (Creative Director of Romyda_KL), Azran Osman Ran (Entrepreneur, Author and Ironman Triathlete) who shared insights on why there is still a need to champion gender equality, how men have a responsibility in pushing the agenda and what measures are needed to accelerate parity in a modern world. After the panel session, high-tea was served, with attendees staying on for a lucky draws and a fashion show by Romyda_KL. The BMCC extends its appreciation to Romyda_KL and The Majestic Hotel Kuala Lumpur for partnering the event.
Following the success of this first event, we hope the BMCC Women in Leadership Network will continue to grow from strength to strength, calling upon business leaders both women and men alike to become Champions for Women in Leadership.
