Wanita MCA shifts its focus

The Star News : Friday February 27, 2009

KUALA LUMPUR: Wanita MCA has switched its focus to be actively involved in national issues.
It demonstrated its seriousness in monitoring the implementation of government policies and ensuring good governance when its leaders recently voiced strong opposition against sexist remarks made in Parliament, said movement chief Datin Paduka Chew Mei Fun.

“The movement has been in existence for 34 years. We must now make changes and start all over again, especially after what we went through in the March 8 general election,” she said in an interview in conjunction with the party’s 60th anniversary celebration on March 1.

Although Wanita MCA was more well known for its social work and match-making singles through the Cupid Club, Chew said the wing was “definitely more than that”.

“Politics is our fundamental objective and it is our goal to help women in this country achieve greater heights in politics,” she said.

Chew said efforts being made by the wing were to attract more young women to join the party. There was even a joint committee with MCA Youth to attract both males and females to participate in politics.

“We will give them specialisation training and ensure that those with potential will have a platform to perform on the political scene,” she said.

Chew said existing members would not be neglected despite the rejuvenation process.

Chew: 'Our goal is to help women in this country achieve greater heights in politics'

“Wanita MCA is not constrained by age. We welcome people from all age groups to join us. We also encourage our members to come out with creative ideas to help develop the movement,” she said.

For women to actively participate in politics, the movement must continue to ensure they are financially independent.

“If women have to constantly worry about their finances; or fret about caring for their children, they will not be able to get involved in politics at all,” she said.