DUBBED as the first-ever mock assembly sitting for women participants only in the country, the Penang Women’s Assembly 2020 has successfully convened at Dewan Sri Pinang today.
The one-day sitting resembled the format of Penang Legislative Assembly sitting with 40 elected representatives and was moderated by State Speaker Datuk Law Choo Kiang.
The special platform is a joint collaboration between the office of state Social Development and Non-Islamic Religious Affairs Committee chairman Chong Eng and the Penang Women’s Development Corporation (PWDC).
It was also broadcast live on the PWDC Facebook page.
During the assembly session, each of the participants could be seen playing a crucial role in tabling a motion, debating and discussing issues that they are facing in their respective constituency.
Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow, who visited the assembly sitting today, congratulated all the aspiring women who have stepped forward to join the assembly session.
“I was informed that from 400 participants, only 40 were selected to join this assembly sitting. The selection committee had a hard time choosing the best candidates during the selection process.
“Thus, this shows a strong interest from women to learn more about the roles of elected representatives and to venture into politics as well.
“Your participation is also a strong and tangible evidence in eradicating gender stereotypes, that women have no interest in politics.
“Hats off to all of you! History has been made today with the first-ever mock assembly sitting for women participants in the country and it is in Penang!
“All of you have shown that women can also become good leaders by taking part in policy-making and fight for gender equality,” he said.
Chow also reiterated the Penang government’s commitment to continue prioritising women’s empowerment through PWDC to formulate policies and programmes related to gender inclusiveness.
“The empowerment of women is essential to achieving gender equality and social justice.
“When gender equality is achieved, women and men will have equal access to enjoy available resources such as education and health, as well as equal opportunities for employment and decision-making,” he added.
Chow also expressed hopes that the Penang Women’s Assembly would be held every year to spur interest among women to take part in the special platform.
Story by Riadz Akmal
Pix by Darwina Mohd Daud
Video by Law Suun Ting