On 30 January 2026, the Women Engineers (WE) Section of The Institution of Engineers, Malaysia visited the IEM Melaka Branch as part of its 2026 initiative to build closer and stronger professional connections. The five-member delegation led by its Chair, Prof. Dr. Ir. Zuhaina Zakaria. More than a formal visit, the engagement set the tone for deeper collaboration and meaningful exchanges among engineers across branches.
A Warm Melaka Welcome
WE’s delegation were warmly received by the Chair of Melaka Branch, Ir. Lim Su Hian along with her supportive committee members. The conversational topics portrayed mutual respect and professional friendship, with clear and purposed filled mission, that brings WE closer to the Branches and to have a strong sense of unity with all engineers. WE’s committee’s eagerness is to commence engagement with branches led by women leaders to create a nationwide coorperative and supportive network. This network encourages growth, confidence, and leadership amongst women engineers at every stage of their career path.
Exploring Avenues for Collaboration
While the visit celebrates female leadership, discussions remained inclusive, constructive, and forward looking. Both teams shared ideas on collaborative initiatives that will benefit the overall engineering community, regardless of gender nor experience, while addressing real world challenges faced by these professionals today.
Two promising ideas arose as key highlights of the discussion:
- Safety Beyond the Office: The Melaka Branch proposed talks and seminars focused on safety awareness for women engineers, particularly those working on construction sites, in industrial settings, or at remote locations. These sessions would equip participants with practical knowledge, situational awareness, and strategies to ensure personal safety and well-being.
- STEM Outreach for the Next Generation: Both groups expressed strong enthusiasm for nurturing future engineers. Emphasis was placed on introducing STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) at the primary school level to spark early interest, build confidence, and encourage diversity in future engineering pathways.
Looking Ahead
The visit marked the beginning of exciting opportunities for collaboration. By combining WE’s national reach and resources with the Melaka Branch’s local insight and energy, the potential of impactful seminars, outreach programs and community engagement will be truly promising. It serves as reminder that when engineers collaborate across branches, the profession grows stronger and more connected.
The spirit of teamwork continued beyond the meeting. Over a delightful lunch featuring Melaka’s famous ‘asam pedas’, the group shared stories, laughter and meaningful conversations before concluding the day with a specially arranged visit to Encore Melaka Theater.
