Appointment of Anna Belle crucial in gender equality in leadership

9 March 2024

By Nabalu News Journalist

KOTA KINABALU: The involvement of women in leadership roles, especially at the policy-making level, is a crucial indicator in ensuring the country's agenda for achieving gender equality is met.

Viola Dompok, the Women's Chief of PGRS N. 26 Moyog and also the Coordinator of GRS P. 174 Penampang, said that when commenting on the appointment of Anna Belle Perian as a Member of the Senate, effective on March 5, 2024.

She mentioned that the appointment aligns with the efforts of the Unity Government to achieve the target of having 30 percent of parliament and senate members being women.

"Although the current number of female parliamentarians has not reached 30 percent, with the determination and commitment of the Right Honourable Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and the Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Haji Noor, we can continue these efforts in the senate," she said.

She also characterised the decision to appoint Anna Belle as a demonstration of the seriousness of the Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS) government in advancing the women's agenda and further enhancing the voice of women, especially from Sabah, in the highest legislative body of the country.

"I congratulate Senator Anna Belle on her appointment and wish her success in conveying the people's message. Congratulations also to Chief Minister Datuk Hajiji Hj Noor and the state government for this right decision."

As a record, a total of 3 female leaders from Sabah have been appointed as members of the Senate since Hajiji's leadership and GRS leading the Sabah state government. The commitment is a clear signal from the state government to empower women, especially in addressing gender equality issues through the political arena.

Also present with Anna Belle during the swearing-in ceremony as a member of the Senate were former Nabawan State Assemblyman, Datuk Bobbey Ah Fang Suan, and former Secretary of the Sarawak State Legislative Assembly, Pele Peter Tinggom.