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PAKATAN Harapan (PH) has taken the right step by launching a women's empowerment agenda that sets a 30 percent target for women representation in the Sabah State Cabinet.
PH Wanita Sabah chairman who is also the candidate for the Kapayan State Legislative Assembly seat, Datuk Jannie Lasimbang, said that the empowerment of women in the leadership of government-linked companies (GLCs) and local leaders is a step that is described as dynamic, progressive and inclusive for Sabahans.
She said that the agenda is a bold, progressive, inclusive statement and truly elevates the role of women as lawmakers and policymakers.
"For a long time, the role of women in economic development, building family institutions and as guardians, nurturers and protectors has contributed a lot to the progress of Sabah.
"However, it is time for the responsibilities of Sabah women to be balanced with a new character in the political and administrative journey of Sabah.
"The much-vaunted 30 percent allocation for women is not a mere figure. 30 percent is a critical number to produce a lasting impact in policy formation and political decision-making," she said in a statement today.
She said the determination of 30 percent women in all levels of Sabah administration also opens up a wide space for male leaders to join forces as champions of the women's agenda.
According to her, the move is to help realise a political landscape that is trustworthy, has integrity, is accountable and transparent, based on the principles of social justice, democracy, freedom and gender inclusiveness.
"PH's vision and insight of providing a platform for women to be active in the political arena and at the policy-making level will directly inspire the next generation of female leaders in Sabah.
"Women leaders have an advantage as legislators and policymakers because of their different challenges and experiences from male leaders," she said.
Jannie said the difference in experience will ensure that the issues faced by children, the elderly, people with disabilities (OKU) and vulnerable groups brought up by female leaders will be given recognition, attention and solutions.
"As the voice of women from the women's leadership of DAP, PKR and Amanah, I hope that Sabah voters will make a wise, mature and thoughtful decision on November 29.
"This is the opportunity for Sabah voters to choose leaders who will bring their voices to the Sabah State Legislative Assembly, this is the time for us to hand over the trust, responsibility and confidence to the leaders we choose for women and for Sabah," she said. - November 24, 2025