Shahrizat hopes her comeback will inspire women

Umno Wanita chief Shahrizat Abdul Jalil who is set to retain to position says she wants her comeback from the political wilderness to inspire other women.

Shahrizat, even though unwilling to claim victory until the official results is announced, said she wanted her victory to be an example to women who feel that their was no more hope in life.

"Over the last two years, because of the tragedy I had to go through, I developed my inner strength.

"I know what I did not do - that's why I soldiered on because I want to be a role model for women who thinks life is hopeless when it is not," she told journalists at the tally centre at Putra World Trade Centre (PWTC) in Kuala Lumpur last night.

"I want them to think of Kak Ijat. I want to be that role model," she added, referring to the monicker which her supporters have given her.

Shahrizat was referring to her family's involvement in the National Feedlot Corporation saga which came to light in 2011 and ultimately spilled over, unceremoniously forcing her out of the cabinet.

Her challengers were Raihan Sulaiman Palestin and Maznah Mazlan.

Crisis management

As of 2am, Shahrizat is projected to win a second term as Wanita Umno chief by a landslide though official results are expected at the earliest by 4am.

Shahrizat who was defeated in the 2008 general election was appointed senator and made minister.

However, her term as senator was not renewed following the NFC scandal and she was also not fielded as a candidate in the 2013 general election.

But her victory today will breath new life to her political career that a few months ago seemed to be at an end.

Shahrizat's said her ability to endure the crisis she faced will be a testament to her leadership skills in trying times.

"I've had a painful two years. I had to face all kinds of challenges. It has been really painful for me, my family and Wanita Umno.

"A lot of things were about me and leaders are judged not only faring good times but also in times of crisis, how he or she handles the crisis," she said.