International Bulletin - December 2001
PPSEAWA Malaysia
In conjunction with the UN International Year of Volunteerism four PPSEAWA Malaysia members including our Patron, Datin Seri Dr Siti Hasmah Mohd Ali, participate in visit to Iraq at the at the invitation of the Iraqi Women's Federation early this year. Following the visits, one campaign was officially launched to raise funds for the purchase of medicines and essential items for women and children.
A major event in the campaign was a PPSEAWA sponsored forum on the theme "Promoting a Culture of Peace -- The Effect of UN Imposed Sanctions". Chaired by the Former President of UNGA, Tan Sri Razali Ismail, the speakers included PPSEAWA Malaysia's Patron and a special international guest, Dr Hans Von Sponeck formerly of the United Nations. The forum participants were given some insights into the plight of the women and children living under the sanctions, and how civil society can help on humanitarian grounds.
A number events were held at the new PPSEAWA Malaysia's own premises. These include: the joint celebration of Eid Mubarak and the Chinese New Year in January, a Flower Arrangement demonstration and a talk on Human Resource Development in July. International Day of Peace was observed in September with a talk on the significance of the UN Day followed by a lively session of "Line Dance" performance by specially invited guests to further enhance inter cultural activities and friendship.
Plans are also underway to develop the site of PPSEAWA International 20th Conference tree-planting event into a proposed "PEACE PARK" by PPSEAWA Malaysia and the City Council.
A charity event was the donation of RM 10,000 to the New Straits Times campaign to raised fund for two school girls in need of corrective heart surgery. PPSEAWA Malaysia also pledge to support the campaign to send materials and medical personnel to help the refugees in Afghanistan. A sum of RM 5,000 was approved by the Executive Committee to kick-start the campaign.
A notable event during the year was the wedding of PPSEAWA President's (Datin Rahmah) only son to the Deputy Prime Minister's only daughter. By all standards, it was indeed the wedding of the year with the bridal couple having to under go six separate ceremonies cum receptions both in Kuala Lumpur and in their respective home states.
Last Modified: November 29, 2002