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KUCHING, 1 February 2025 – Sarawak has taken a groundbreaking step in providing support for vulnerable young mothers with the launch of Dawn Hope: A Safe Haven for Girls in Need, the state’s first-ever transit shelter for teenage girls facing pregnancy crises. This milestone initiative, led by Yayasan Sime Darby (YSD) in collaboration with Pertubuhan Pembangunan Insan Sarawak (PPIS), is fully funded by the Ministry of Finance (MOF) for the first nine months.
A Sanctuary for Young Mothers in Need
Dawn Hope aims to offer a secure and supportive environment for teenage mothers and their babies, providing them with essential services such as healthcare, mental health support, counselling, education assistance, and vocational training. This initiative ensures these girls continue their education and gain employability skills, giving them a chance for a better future.
Officiated by YB Dato’ Sri Hajah Nancy binti Shukri, Minister of Women, Family and Community Development, the launch marks a significant step in addressing teenage pregnancy and baby abandonment issues, which are particularly prevalent in rural and underserved communities.
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Commitment to a Brighter Future
Y.A.M. Tunku Tan Sri Imran Ibni Almarhum Tuanku Ja’afar, Chairman of Yayasan Sime Darby, emphasized the shelter’s role in providing young mothers with a pathway to stability and independence.
“The launch of Dawn Hope reflects our collective commitment to supporting young mothers on their journey to reintegrate into society with confidence. This initiative not only provides a safe space but also education opportunities and awareness programmes to help prevent teenage pregnancies and baby abandonment.”
A Key Initiative Under Program SINAR YSD
Dawn Hope is a core component of Program SINAR YSD (Sokongan Inklusif Autisme, Remaja, dan Komuniti Rentan), a nationwide initiative funded under the Belanjawan 2025. With a RM5 million matching grant from MOF, YSD is working alongside NGOs to strengthen social support for vulnerable communities, particularly pregnant teenagers and children with autism.
A Collaborative Effort for Social Change
Manjeet Kaur Sidhu, President of PPIS, expressed gratitude for the partnership with YSD and MOF in amplifying efforts to empower young women in Sarawak.
“PPIS is deeply grateful for this funding, which allows us to expand our decade-long mission of providing a safe haven and essential care for girls in need. Together with YSD, we are committed to ensuring good governance and best practices for Dawn Hope, making a lasting impact in the community.”
Government’s Support for Teenage Mothers
During the launch event, YB Nancy Shukri highlighted the importance of education and vocational training in breaking the cycle of vulnerability.
“Dawn Hope is more than just a shelter; it is a sanctuary where young mothers can heal, learn, and rebuild their lives. They receive protection, healthcare, counselling, and parenting guidance to regain their confidence. Yayasan Sime Darby’s approach ensures these young mothers don’t just survive, but thrive, with access to education and employability skills that open doors to a brighter future.”
Transforming Lives Through Strategic Intervention
The establishment of Dawn Hope represents a major shift in Malaysia’s approach to supporting young mothers in crisis. With structured intervention, vulnerable girls will receive the care they need, proving that with the right support, they can thrive and succeed.
About Pertubuhan Pembangunan Insan Sarawak (PPIS)
PPIS is a non-governmental organization (NGO) based in Sarawak, Malaysia, dedicated to community development, education, health initiatives, and social welfare. The organization actively engages in awareness campaigns, skills training workshops, and community outreach programs to support underprivileged groups.
About Yayasan Sime Darby (YSD)
Yayasan Sime Darby is the philanthropic arm of Sime Darby Berhad, SD Guthrie Berhad, and Sime Darby Property Berhad. Established in 1982, the foundation operates under five key pillars: Education, Environment, Community & Health, Sports, and Arts & Culture. Through impactful conservation, outreach, and development programmes, YSD continues to support Malaysia’s underserved communities.