International Women’s Day (IWD) at the QI Group of Companies is not just an annual observance—it’s a powerful testament to its unwavering commitment to empowerment, inclusion, and gender equality.
The week leading up to the celebration was filled with dynamic activities that promoted personal growth, well-being, and a sense of community.
Employees participated in professional image workshops, a stress management talk, and empowerment discussions. A charity bazaar showcased food, handicrafts, and pre-loved items, blending community spirit with purpose.
Leadership, Resilience and Inclusivity
The final event united the QI Family. QI Group Founder and Executive Chairman Dato’ Sri Vijay Eswaran, RYTHM Foundation Chairperson Datin Sri Umayal Eswaran, members of the QI Board of Directors, and senior executives joined employees in a shared commitment to empowerment and inclusivity.
Datin Sri Umayal urged everyone to embrace their individuality and purpose in her empowering IWD message. “Use each day to celebrate yourself, your achievements, and your passion—that fire within you that fuels your dreams and ambitions,” she said.
“Take pride in their journey and continue pushing boundaries. Your contributions shape a more inclusive and equitable world.”
A key highlight was an engaging forum moderated by Datin Sri Umayal. The panel featured the acting CEO of the think tank IDEAS, Aira Nur Ariana Azhari, consultant ophthalmologist Dr Wilson Wong, and trustee of Yayasan Kelab-Kelab Rotary Malaysia, Raja Yasmin Raja Yusuf.
Their thought-provoking discussion explored themes of empowerment, adaptability, and equity, reinforcing the collective effort needed to create a more equitable world.
The following guest was former senator Bathmavathi Krishnan, who brought a deeply personal voice to the event. The distinguished academic and wheelchair user has spent several decades championing disability rights in Malaysia through policymaking, education, and sports.
“True inclusion is about creating a world where every individual, regardless of ability, has the opportunity to thrive,” she emphasised.
Women Who Inspire: A Special Tribute
This year’s special tribute honoured three exceptional women whose leadership and dedication have impacted the QI Family.
They are Deputy Chairperson of QNET Malou Caluza, Group Chief Communications Officer Ramya Chandrasekaran, and Corporate Services & Administrative Support Consultant Kalyani Puspagathan.
These remarkable women also shared brief messages of encouragement, inspiring the audience to embrace resilience, lead with purpose, and champion positive change in their journeys.
Following a vibrant musical performance by four talented employees, the event was capped by a heartfelt tribute by Dato’ Sri Vijay, honouring women’s invaluable role, particularly mothers.
“If there’s one message for International Women’s Day, it is for every one of us to celebrate our mothers,” he expressed. Quoting a Tamil proverb, he added, “There is no greater place of worship than your mother.”
With inspiring stories and a shared vision of inclusivity, this year’s IWD commemoration reinforced that empowerment starts with each individual and that the QI Group’s commitment to gender equality extends beyond a single day.
