Joint-Action Group for Gender Equality (JAG) Lauds Reinstatement of YB Elizabeth Wong

by Haslinah Yacob
15 April 2009

The Joint Action Group for Gender Equality (JAG) welcomes the decision of the Selangor state government to retain YB Elizabeth Wong as State Executive Councilor as well as State Assemblymember for Bukit Lanjan.

YB Wong has proven worthy to hold public office, as evidenced by the overwhelming support from colleagues and her constituents. This decision to reject her resignation, is a validation of her capabilities as a politician, as well as a rejection of increasingly sexualized politicking that render young, women politicians such as Wong more vulnerable to attacks on the basis of so-called “morality.”

JAG hopes that such a stand by the State government will go a long way towards the recognition of women politicians of good caliber, and similarly encourage more women to participate in the political arena.

JAG also is pleased that YB Wong has decided to retain her positions and posts and we commend her for her perseverance and commitment in continuing to serve the people of Selangor.

Haslinah Yacob
Vice-President
The All Women’s Action Society (AWAM)

For and on behalf of the Joint Action Group for Gender Equality (JAG):
All Women’s Action Society (AWAM)
Persatuan Kesedaran Komuniti Selangor (Empower)
Sisters In Islam (SIS)
Women’s Aid Organisation (WAO)
Women’s Centre for Change, Penang (WCC)