KUALA LUMPUR, July 12 — Women MPs from both sides of the political divide yesterday expressed their disgust over a sexist remarks made against their peer by a parliamentary official at the MPs’ lounge.
“It’s very shameful to hear such remarks in this time and age. If everyone showed women the respect they deserve we will be in a better world for everyone,” said Women, Family and Development Minister Datuk Rohani Abdul Karim.
She said no one should make such remarks but the problem persists when the victims do not make reports.
This makes it difficult for the authorities to take action.
Deputy Works Minister Datuk Rosnah Abdul Rashid Shirlin said while women are excelling all over the world, some persist in hindering their progress.
“Today, we can see more and more women in universities, the government and private sector. Women are on the move now but we need for people to respect women,” she said.
The issue was highlighted by Kuantan MP Fuziah Salleh, who overheard the official taking a swipe at a woman MP on July 4.
“YB ... you did not get any state exco position because you did not flash your panties. If you had flashed it, then surely you would have got it,” he had said.
“I was shocked to hear this and told the official that he should be more respectful when speaking to a woman,” said Fuziah.
The official claimed he did not mean to insult the woman MP.
Batu Kawan MP Kasthruriraani Patto said she was appalled by the remarks, “more so since they were uttered in the MPs’ lounge”.
“No one should look down on another’s gender, this is wrong. Such remarks should not have been made, no matter where the place is,” she said.
Kasthruriraani said more needed to be done to educate the public.
“It seems we have regressed instead of progressed,” she said.
