PUTRAJAYA, SEPT 13TH : Minister of Plantation Industries and Commodities, Datuk Zuraida Kamaruddin highly welcomed the list of 20 proposals on parliamentary transformation submitted by Pontian MP, Datuk Seri Ahmad bin Maslan two days ago.

However, Zuraida explained in a statement today, the transformation must involve at least 30 percent of women as policy makers and decision makers.

This target, she said, is very appropriate and in accordance with the nation’s aim to mainstream the role of women in governance and narrow the gender gap in administration.

Zuraida explained, this includes the matter of appointing the Deputy Speaker and the student parliament program.

“The proposal to appoint three Deputy Speakers should include a woman as Deputy Speaker, either from Sabah or Sarawak or the Peninsula.

“The Pontian Member of Parliament has also suggested and encouraged the participation of women in the student parliament program. A target of 30 percent of women in the program should be mandatory.

“Women play a very important role in the development of the country, and the role of 30 percent of these women cannot be ignored to lead the country towards the status we want,” she said.

The Ampang MP added, she also agreed that the Standing Orders of Parliament should be updated to avoid sexist statements and jokes during any sitting.

“..It is necessary that Members of Parliament who issue sexist and offensive statements and jokes are subject to immediate suspension, fines and appropriate punishment,” she said. – PPI