By Sheeda Fathil
SHAH ALAM, Dec 16 — The Selangor Women’s Assembly (Siwanis) serves as a platform to expose and empower women in decision-making processes and policy development at the highest levels.
State executive councillor for women empowerment Anfaal Saari said the programme, now in its second year, has received an overwhelmingly positive response and is set to become an annual event.
She noted that Siwanis plays a key role in nurturing women leaders, equipping them with the skills needed to potentially serve as future state assembly members.
“Participation in Siwanis, with its carefully designed modules aimed at equipping women leaders with relevant knowledge in policymaking, is a step in the right direction.
“May today’s simulation programme succeed in shaping high-calibre women leaders capable of mastering issues, policies, and governance, while advancing gender equality.
“Let us be catalysts for change, not only impacting ourselves but also our families, communities, and the nation,” she said when officiating Siwanis 2024 at the Selangor State Legislative Assembly today.
The programme was also attended by State Speaker Lau Weng San.
Commenting on the performance of the 56 Siwanis participants, Anfaal said their quality of debate, including interjections and question and answer sessions, was commendable.
“I hope the training and opportunities provided will be fully utilised. InsyaAllah, you will one day be part of the decision-makers shaping policies in Selangor and the nation,” she added.
Earlier, 56 women from diverse backgrounds representing both government and opposition blocs debated two key motions as part of Siwanis.
The motions focused on reducing the cost of living for vulnerable groups in Selangor, particularly in transportation, and ensuring a minimum of 50 percent women’s representation in politics.
