Wanita UMNO push for political quota, propose young women’s secretariat, demand justice for Najib

KUALA LUMPUR – The Wanita UMNO wing has urged the party and government leadership to give serious attention to three key issues: the role of women in politics, the position of young women, and the implementation of the adendum decree by the Yang di-Pertuan Agong involving Datuk Seri Najib Razak.

Wanita UMNO Information Chief Datuk Rosni Zahari said divisional delegates’ meetings are currently in full swing, with one of the main focuses this year being the call for a dedicated political quota for women – a matter she described as deeply disappointing in its current state.

“If we look at it, women’s political participation in Malaysia is extremely low, only around 13.5 per cent. Among ASEAN countries, we are the worst. This is despite the fact that many women in UMNO are highly qualified, experienced, and ready to be fielded as candidates,” she said.

She stressed that Wanita UMNO want female candidates to be placed in winnable constituencies, rather than being fielded in difficult seats merely to fulfil quotas.

“We are serious about this. It is no longer rhetoric. Women empowerment is a national agenda,” she said while officiating several divisional meetings, including in Nibong Tebal and Pekan, with plans to attend the Kuantan division on July 6.

Young women’s secretariat proposed

In the same vein, Rosni proposed the formation of a Young Women’s Secretariat to assist former Puteri UMNO members, who have surpassed the age limit for the youth wing, in continuing their activism under the Women’s wing.

“Many former Puteri members face difficulties adapting to the Women’s movement due to existing structures and influence. This secretariat would serve as a platform for them to remain active and contribute meaningfully,” she said.

Rosni also shared her personal experience of being challenged by a former Puteri Chief in an internal party election, yet still appointed her as a committee member and state constituency chairperson after winning.

“I believe not many Women’s Chiefs would do that, but I want us to be inclusive and open-minded,” she added.

Justice for Najib

Separately, Wanita UMNO also tabled a motion urging the implementation of the adendum decree by the Yang di-Pertuan Agong regarding house arrest for Datuk Seri Najib Razak.

“This royal decree has yet to be enforced. It appears to contradict the provisions of the Federal Constitution, as the King’s decree is being ignored by the government,” she said.

Rosni stated that the motion has been tabled by Wanita UMNO and adopted by divisional women’s wings, with the aim of securing support from all 191 divisions before it is presented at the Wanita UMNO General Assembly on August 20.

“We urge the government to implement the decree and deliver justice to Datuk Seri Najib, as commanded by the King,” she stressed.