Minister: 30pct women MPs still a far-off dream, but not impossible

PARLIAMENT | Ensuring at least one-third women's participation in Parliament may be a far-off dream for now, but not impossible, said Women, Family and Community Development Minister Nancy Shukri.

She said parties from both sides of the political divide must have the political will to field more women candidates in elections for this dream to come true.

“It’s not impossible if all parties are really sincere and willing to take the initiative to realise this. Where there’s a will, there’s a way,” she said in the Dewan Rakyat today. 

She was responding to Noraini Ahmad’s (BN-Parit Sulong) supplementary question on the ministry’s efforts to encourage more women to participate in politics in order to fulfil the 30 percent women participation target in the august house.

Noraini also asked if the government is ready to amend laws to ensure the 30 percent quota can be achieved.

Although there are no legal amendments to “force” any parties to give the opportunity and space to women to represent 30 percent of the number of MPs in the Dewan Rakyat, Nancy asserted that measures need to be taken by the parties’ top leadership to ensure that this goal can be achieved.

“I thank Parit Sulong, who has been fighting together (on this issue) since the start. (Until today) till we grow old, I’m not sure if we can achieve it or not.

“We need the support of others, not just the women. It really does depend on the parties’ political will,” she said.

Parit Sulong MP Noraini Ahmad

Earlier, Nancy revealed that only 29.7 percent of top 100 public-listed companies have achieved the target of having 30 percent women participation in their boards as of April 1. The statistic was based on a report by the Securities Commission.

The government, she said, had outlined several strategies in a bid to support the initiative. 

“It includes three main initiatives, firstly, improving legislation and policies so that there is a conducive environment for women.

“Secondly, providing an environment that supports women’s involvement as well as providing opportunities and access to women. And lastly, by increasing awareness and collaboration with different stakeholders.” - Mkini