Zuraida: New Jakim head shows women can lead on religion, anti-LBGT

 

Plantation Industries and Commodities Minister Zuraida Kamaruddin has hailed the appointment of Hakimah Mohd Yusoff as the first woman head of the Department of Islamic Development Malaysia (Jakim).

Zuraida, who is also the Council of Malaysian Women Political Leaders (Comwel) president, said the appointment showed women can lead on issues of religion, anti-Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transexual (LBGT), and halal certification.

"Comwel congratulates Hakimah Mohd Yusoff for being appointed as the first woman to head Jakim.

"This move clearly shows that women are just as capable to lead in matters of religion, anti-LGBT, and the Halal certification," she said in a statement.

Zuraida (above) added that the appointment also showed the government's commitment to ensuring gender equality in its administration.

"As Jakim plays a big role in ensuring the compliance of Islamic values in the country, Comwel hopes Hakimah will be able to develop reform measures and implement them in public religious institutions.

"Policies that are in line with gender equality as an Islamic value, just as stipulated in the Al-Quran, will greatly enhance women’s position in our society," Zuraida said.

She also emphasised the importance of good governance, transparency, and competency for an institution such as Jakim.

Hakimah's appointment will take effect on March 21. Prior to the appointment, Hakimah was the Jakim deputy director-general of policy. - Mkini