By WU VUIDE
KOTA KINABALU: Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor wants to see more women engage in policy and decision-making.
“I want more women to have access to opportunities, including empowerment in the economy, education, and politics, which have an impact on their lives and their families,” he said at the swearing-in ceremony of the newly-appointed members of the Sabah Women’s Advisory Council (MPWS) at Menara Kinabalu here yesterday.
He said women’s empowerment is crucial for the overall development of society.
“Empowering women requires collaborative efforts from all – the government, organisations, and individuals – to create an inclusive environment.
“Therefore, I hope the newly-appointed MPWS committee will become part of the government machinery in optimising women’s involvement in various sectors,” he said.
Hajiji added that the role and importance of women as human capital is becoming increasingly evident and that all parties must play a role in assisting the government to nurture knowledgeable women.
The MPWS was established as a coordinating and advisory body to the State Government to implement policies and programmes benefiting women at the state, national, and international levels.
“Therefore, for those appointed to hold positions in the council, it is an honour that you have been selected and entrusted with the leadership role,” he said.
Hajiji said the MPWS also plays a crucial role as a think tank and catalyst, working collaboratively with the Sabah Department of Women’s Affairs (JHEWA).
“The MPWS has seven sub-committees established to advance the development of women, namely: Economy, Education, Social, Health, Law, Gender, and Women & Media.
“I want JHEWA, which acts as the secretariat of the MPWS, to assist in the implementation of programmes planned by the MPWS.”
Datuk Rosmawati Lasuki has been appointed as the new MPWS chairperson.
The other members are Datin Fauziah Abu Bakar Titingan, Jais Asri, Prof Dr Imbarine Bujang, Viviantie Sarjuni, Dayang Selha Ibrahim, Nor Saadah Omar, Nor Azah Abd Rahman, and Datin Atin Belynda Buntot.
