By Yasmin Ramlan
SHAH ALAM, June 1 — It is important for Selangor to have women-friendly infrastructure to achieve its goal of becoming a smart state, said Klang Mayor Datin Paduka Noraini Roslan.
Citing Japan as an example, she said the country has developed infrastructures that are friendly towards vulnerable groups, including the disabled, senior citizens, and women.
This includes specialised toilets catering to the elderly, with facilities such as hangers for walking sticks.
"One example we can implement is the use of tiles for pedestrian walkways, considering women wear different types of shoes compared to men.
"While our needs may seem trivial, there are significant differences. For instance, we must understand the reasoning behind the provision of dedicated parking spaces for women and families at shopping malls that are positioned close to the entrance,” Noraini said.
She was speaking at a forum ahead of the launch of the Selangor Women’s Policy and Action Plan 2024-2026 at the Shah Alam Convention Centre yesterday.
Noraini also emphasised the importance for town planners to consider developing a smart, inclusive state that accommodates all groups.
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Kampung Tunku state assemblyman Lim Yi Wei (centre) speaks during a forum prior to the launch of the Selangor Women’s Policy and Action Plan 2024-2026 at the Shah Alam Convention Centre in Section 14, Shah Alam, on May 31, 2024. — Picture via FACEBOOK/MAJLIS BANDARAYA DIRAJA KLANG[/caption]
Meanwhile, fellow panellist and Kampung Tunku state assemblyman Lim Yi Wei said that while the public has no issue voting for women in politics, parties and non-governmental organisations must have the willpower to increase women's participation in leadership roles.
“They need to show determination in establishing a supportive ecosystem for this. We do not want to merely fulfil a quota,” she said in response to a question on the challenges faced by women in politics.
Lim added that it is crucial to nurture competitive women in terms of education, economy, and empathy.
“In politics, we need individuals with various expertise and skills, not just lawyers and doctors.
“Sometimes, we need expertise from historians, especially when it comes to developing a place for tourism,” she said.
As such, women interested in participating in politics should have financial independence.
“Nowadays, there is also a need to master transferable skills and apply fundamental principles of humanity,” Lim said.
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Menteri Besar Dato' Seri Amirudin Shari (seated, third from left) and state executive councillor for women empowerment and welfare Anfaal Saari (steaed, second from right) during the launch of the Selangor Women's Policy and Action Plan 2024-2026 at the Shah Alam Convention Centre, Shah Alam, on May 31, 2024. — Picture via FACEBOOK/WANITA BERDAYA SELANGOR[/caption]
