"Voices of Empowerment: Celebrating Women at Batu Batu This International Women’s Day" 🌸✨
This International Women’s Day, we’re shining a light on the incredible women of Batu Batu. When we first opened in 2012, there was only a small handful of women on our little team.
Today, women make up 40% of our 94 strong team, and can be found in all departments and positions - from sustainability to housekeeping, engineering to finance, and management to kitchen. Some of us who know us well may know that our senior management Executive Committee is strongly female…!
Through the lens of the 4Cs—Conservation, Community, Culture, and Commerce—we spoke to some of our team members about what it means to be a woman in Malaysia today, what inspires them, and their thoughts on gender equality. Their stories are full of passion, resilience, and a desire for a more inclusive world.
Conservation: Protecting Nature, Inspiring Change
At Batu Batu, women are at the heart of our efforts, driving positive change across the 4Cs. Siaw Hui, our Sustainability Officer, recently stepped into her role. With a degree in Marine Science and experience in coastal research, her commitment to making a meaningful impact across all areas runs deep.
“I was drawn to Batu Batu’s commitment to sustainability, which is why I wanted to work here” she shares. “This isn’t just a job, it’s a purpose. I want to make a real impact, and I know I can do that here.”
Naja Mohtar, Executive Director of Tengah Island Conservation, echoes that sentiment. A dedicated marine biologist, she’s passionate about protecting coastal ecosystems and engaging with local communities to foster a shared commitment to conservation.
“Every little action matters,” she says. “Conservation isn’t just about saving nature—it’s about the people who make it happen.”
Community: Strength in Unity
A strong community thrives when everyone has a seat at the table. For Enani in Housekeeping, Nurul Syahirah in Maintenance and Engineering, and Ain Syamimi (Mimi) in Food & Beverage, creating a fairer society starts with opportunity for women to share our voice.
“Women need to be part of decision-making,” says Mimi. “We’re not just supporting players—we should have a say in how things are run.”
She adds, “Malaysia has come a long way, but we still have work to do. We need laws that truly protect women’s rights.”
Naja believes that education is the key:
“It changes lives. It creates opportunities. It makes communities stronger. We need to invest in young girls—give them the tools to break cycles of poverty and inequality.”
Culture: Honouring Heritage, Inspiring the Future
Many of the women at Batu Batu credit their strength to the powerful female figures in their lives. For Mimi, that person is her mother.
“She sacrificed so much for me. Everything I am, I owe to her.”
Nurul Syahirah finds inspiration in Raja Permaisuri Agong Raja Zarith Sofiah, admiring her wisdom and grace.
For Naja, it’s her own mother, Rambiah Brahim.
“She’s the toughest, smartest woman I know. She pushed me to get an education, to work hard, and to always carry my values with me.”
These stories show us that the women who came before us have shaped who we are today, and that recognising their influence is just as important as looking ahead to the future.
Commerce: Breaking Barriers, Creating Opportunities
Despite the much increased opportunities that women have today, many women still face challenges like the gender pay gap and limited leadership opportunities. Ainul, our Accounts Officer, feels that should change.
“Real equality means fair chances and respect,” she says. “We need more women in leadership, more supportive workplace policies, and a real shift in how we see women in business.”
She looks up to Ungku Zeti Akhtar, Malaysia’s first female Governor of Bank Negara.
“She wasn’t just the first woman to do it—she did it for 16 years. That’s inspiring.”
Nurul Syahirah who runs projects in the male-dominated Mechanical and Engineering department on the island and is breaking barriers in her own way, feels the same.
“Women belong in every industry,” she says. “We just need to break those outdated norms.”
She believes we can move toward true gender equality by:
Encouraging more women in leadership.
Changing workplace culture to focus on skills, not gender.
Supporting work-life balance with flexible policies.
Challenging stereotypes—leadership isn’t just for men, and caregiving isn’t just for women.
Empowering young girls to believe they can succeed in any field.
Naja reflects on how far women in her native Sarawak have come:
“Decades ago, education for women wasn’t a priority. But now, more women are stepping into leadership roles. When we invest in women, we uplift entire communities.”
A Message of Strength and Celebration
On this International Women’s Day, some of our incredible women share their messages of empowerment:
“Think like a queen. A queen isn’t afraid to fail—failure is just another step toward greatness.” (Enani)
“Women are strong, smart, and unstoppable. Take up space. Never doubt your worth.” (Nurul Syahirah)
“We’ve made progress, but there’s still more to do. Let’s support each other and push for true equality.” (Ainul)
“A strong woman can be a leader and a role model—not just in her workplace, but in her family and community. Women power!” (Naja)
“Happy International Women’s Day!” (Siaw Hui)
As we celebrate today, let’s continue supporting and empowering the amazing women in our team. By working together, we’re building an organisation where everyone has a fair chance to succeed. We’re creating a space where different perspectives are valued, and where everyone can thrive.
Happy International Women’s Day from all of us at Batu Batu!
#IWD2025 #AccelerateAction