Give women equal representation in upcoming polls, NGO tells parties

A women empowerment activism group has called on political parties to support fair representation of women in the upcoming six state elections.

Women in Power said parties and relevant stakeholders should take proactive steps in addressing gender disparities in politics.

"In anticipation of the upcoming state elections, Women in Power is urging political parties and relevant stakeholders to support the objective of fielding 50 percent of female candidates in the state elections.

"Equality and representation are fundamental pillars of a democratic society. Despite significant progress, gender equality in the political landscape remains a pressing issue.

"Malaysia only has five women ministers in the 28-strong cabinet. The number of female leaders does not represent the 50.3 percent female population in Malaysia," it said in a statement which was signed by “managers of Women in Power”.

The group pointed out that women make up a significant portion of the country's population and thus it is important to ensure that they are given equal representation and participation.

Political parties should take steps such as implementing gender quotas and monitoring their progress in achieving gender balance in their candidate lists, it added.

Muda deputy president Amira Aisya Abdul Aziz

According to the Women in Power's Twitter account, the NGO was founded by Amira Aisya Abdul Aziz, who is also Muda deputy president.

Muda recently announced that it would field at least 50 percent of women candidates in the Aug 12 polls in Kedah, Penang, Selangor, Negeri Sembilan, Kelantan and Terengganu.

Only 10pct equality

The Department of Statistics yesterday issued a statement stating that the female population in the country has reached 15.7 million, which represents 47.9 percent of its total population.

Its Malaysia Gender Gap Index showed that equality between men and women in political empowerment had only reached 10 percent.

It said this shows there is a potential for increased representation and empowerment of women in the political sphere.

"Despite the significance of Malaysian women's participation in the economy and in education, there is an inspiring opportunity for further progress in leadership positions in the country's political system, as only 17.9 percent of women hold ministerial positions," the department added. - Mkini