The Malaysian Association of Social Workers (MASW) in collaboration with Social Welfare Department of Malaysia (JKMM) and Social Institute of Malaysia (ISM) are organising a two-day International Social Work Symposium in conjunction with its 2019 Annual General Meeting (AGM) on the 27th & 28th April 2019. The theme is “Empowering People and Ensuring Inclusiveness and Equality”. This particular theme will be addressed at the High Level Political Forum (HLPF) in 2019 at the United Nations (UN) Headquarters in New York with the involvement of the International Federation of Social Workers (IFSW). The theme covers some of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) on quality education; decent work and economic growth; reducing inequalities; climate action; peace, justice and strong institutions; and partnerships for the goals. As part of the UN Agenda 2030, member states are urged to develop partnerships and promote the Agenda with civil societies, business and (local) government to “transform our world"
We acknowledges that social work practice and education in Malaysia needs to enhance its professional role in promoting the SDGs at a local, subnational, national and international level. Social workers have an important role to play in implementing the SDGs as social work shares the values of human rights and social justice prescribed in the SDGs. Social work practice engages with individuals, families, and groups within their communities or organisations, and also their environment, which provide opportunities for empowering people, ensuring inclusiveness, advocating equality, and environmental sustainability. It is hoped this Symposium will be a meaningful conduit for social workers to share their expertise, experience, expectations, partnerships, and plans in working towards meeting the goals of UN Agenda 2030.
DAY ONE : April 27, 2019 (Sat)