Puteri Umno Chief Questions Marginalization of Women Candidates in Party Elections

KUALA LUMPUR, Jan 15 :  Puteri Umno chief Datuk Nurul Amal Mohd Fauzi has voiced concerns over the sidelining of women members as candidates in party elections, calling for greater opportunities for young female leaders.

Speaking at the Umno policy assembly at the World Trade Centre (WTC) on Thursday, Datuk Nurul Amal highlighted that despite annual discussions at the Umno general assembly about achieving 30% women representation in leadership and politics, the reality remains unchanged.

“Promises are made again and again, but still, we fall short,” she said, stressing that women across UMNO, including Wanita UMNO members, have remained loyal in the party’s struggle.

She pointed out the double standards in candidate selection, noting that Puteri candidates face stringent requirements while male candidates are often given leeway, even if they lose deposits.

“Where are the Puteri candidates? How long must we beg? Why are we still being discriminated against? What more do we need to give to the party?” she asked, drawing loud applause from delegates.

Datuk Nurul Amal also emphasized that Puteri Umno members are often underestimated, their contributions overlooked, and their requests ignored.

“In every situation, we yield, holding back frustration after frustration. But until when?” she questioned.

She added that this is the era of youth, and all opportunities must be equal. “Yet if the party hesitates to give space to young women, we are straying from UMNO’s progressive tradition. This is our time,” she said.