India and Malaysia share a longstanding partnership built on economic cooperation, shared development goals, and a mutual commitment to inclusive growth. Against this backdrop, the participation of Ms. Ratna Prabha IAS (Retd.), Chairperson of the UBUNTU Consortium, at the United Economic Summit 2025 in Klang, Malaysia, added a distinguished and inspiring dimension to the proceedings, reinforcing the vital role of women leaders in shaping new global economic pathways.
A visionary administrator and one of India’s most accomplished civil servants, Ms. Ratna Prabha has held several key positions throughout her illustrious career, including serving as the Chief Secretary to the Government of Karnataka. Her leadership has consistently been associated with transformative governance, economic advancement, and empowerment of women-led enterprises. Today, she carries this legacy forward through the Ubuntu Consortium, championing entrepreneurship and capacity-building initiatives for women across India and the international community.
The Ubuntu Consortium represents a dynamic collective of women entrepreneurs and professionals who work together to elevate women-led businesses to global platforms. The organisation is dedicated to fostering capacity development, facilitating impactful networking, and creating opportunities for knowledge exchange through seminars, webinars, and cross-border engagement.
Speaking about the contributions of Ms. Ratna Prabha IAS, Dato’ Haji Abd Hamid bin Hussain, Hon’ble Mayor of Klang remarked:
“Ms. Ratna Prabha represents the highest ideals of leadership and service. Her work through the Ubuntu Consortium has created pathways for women to participate meaningfully in economic growth, not just in India but across continents.”
At the Summit, Ms. Ratna Prabha’s participation brought exceptional depth to the dialogue on inclusive economic growth. Her remarks emphasised the increasing relevance of women-driven innovation, social enterprise, and digital leadership in defining future industries.
The Summit also witnessed the signing of multiple Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs)between the Ubuntu Consortium and various international organisations. These agreements aim to establish long-term frameworks for cooperation, skill development, trade partnerships, and market expansion.
In a moment of great honour, Ms. Ratna Prabha was presented with the Mahathir Award, recognising her exceptional contribution to advancing women’s entrepreneurship and global collaboration through the Ubuntu Consortium.
Commending her achievements, Thayalan Nathan, BRICS ASEAN President – Malaysia, stated:
“The Mahathir Award is reserved for individuals who embody vision, integrity, and transformative impact. Ms. Ratna Prabha has championed the expansion of women-led enterprises with remarkable dedication. Her efforts align perfectly with the values of BRICS ASEAN, and we are proud to recognise her role in shaping a more inclusive global economic future.”
Reflecting on her contribution, UDC President Dr. Asif Iqbal stated, “The presence of Ms. Ratna Prabha enriches the very spirit of this Summit. Her leadership through the Ubuntu Consortium demonstrates how empowering women entrepreneurs creates enduring economic value and strengthens global partnerships. She embodies the transformative vision that the United Economic Summit seeks to advance.”
The United Economic Summit 2025 in Klang brought together diplomats, entrepreneurs, and global stakeholders with a common purpose—to create meaningful partnerships that drive inclusive growth. The participation of Ms. Ratna Prabha IAS and the engagements forged around the Ubuntu Consortium contributed significantly to the Summit’s success, reaffirming the Council’s dedication to fostering impactful international cooperation.
