Kota Kinabalu: The Lions Club of Kota Kinabalu City launched its “Empowering Single Mothers” initiative in collaboration with PITSA, the Sabah Single Mothers Association, recently.
The initiative included two workshops, namely a massage therapy training session at the Palliative Care Centre and a baking workshop at the Cheshire Home Centre.
The programmes were aimed at equipping single mothers with practical skills that could be turned into sustainable sources of income.
Organising chairperson Prema Kanagalingam announced that Phase 1 of the new initiative focused on massage therapy, training five single mothers in basic foot, head, neck and shoulder massage techniques.
The one-day course was designed to equip participants with practical massage skills, enabling them to offer house-to-house services and create sustainable livelihood opportunities.
The workshop, conducted by a trained massage therapist, taught the correct techniques and fundamentals of massage, she said.
Phase 2 focused on baking course for another group of five single mothers.
Just like the massage workshop, Prema hoped the baking session would equip participants with practical skills that could later be transformed into small business ventures.
“Once they learn how to bake, they can turn that knowledge into a source of income and improve their livelihoods,” she said.
She noted that previous workshops had already made a significant impact.
“Those who acquired skills in earlier projects are now able to sustain themselves or at least ease their family’s financial burden through small businesses,” she said.
Past President Rekha Notaney shared that the club had previously partnered with PITSA to train 20 single mothers in baking.
“Each participant received a 100L oven, stand mixer, and starter kit. Many have continued baking and are now selling their products to support their families.
“This is exactly what we aim for, helping them become self-sustainable through skills, knowledge, and the right tools,” Rekha said.
Another initiative previously carried out was a three-day sewing workshop for 10 single mothers, aimed at equipping them with practical skills to support financial independence.
As part of the programme, each participant received a sewing machine. The handover ceremony and signing of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) were held in conjunction with the 36th Anniversary of the Lions Club of KK City, during the club’s fiscal year 2023-2024.
PITSA President Norhanida Annol, together with her members, was present to receive the donated items from the club.
Past District Governor Dato Connie Loh, a strong supporter of the club’s initiatives, continues to assist financially in improving the lives of marginalised groups.
Club current President Debbie Chin reaffirmed the club’s commitment to supporting vulnerable groups in society.
“It’s not just about receiving aid.
“It’s about how they can give back after receiving help from NGOs. Once they gain the right skills, they not only improve their own income but also uplift those around them by participating in activities that benefit the wider community,” said Debbie.
Norhanida said PITSA continues to play a vital role in bridging the gap by connecting single mothers with essential resources, skills training and support networks.
She expressed her gratitude to NGOs like the Lions Club of Kota Kinabalu City for their impactful initiatives, which have greatly benefited her members.
