KUALA LUMPUR: The women's wings of Barisan Nasional component parties - Umno, MCA, MIC, PBRS and Friends of BN - must combine their individual strengths and leave no one behind, says Datuk Seri Noraini Ahmad.
The Wanita Barisan chief also said it was time for Wanita Barisan Nasional to rise and shine once again.
Noraini, who is also the Deputy Women, Family and Community Development Minister, said this to about 500 women from Barisan parties gathered at the World Trade Centre here Saturday (Dec 7).
“Your presence here today is not just a symbol of unity, but proof that the spirit to fight for the welfare of the people remains strong.
“You are the backbone that ensures Barisan continues to stand firm, even when political storms are raging.
“Over the past 50 years, our actions prove that the women of Barisan are the true heartbeat of the struggle. We do not just support - we lead, we sacrifice, and we carry the responsibility to ensure that Barisan remains the hope of the rakyat.
“We are great women - who are loyal and resilient when faced with challenges and one who will not tire of fighting for the future of our children.
“We have experienced times of glory, and we have also faced difficult downfalls. We have tasted the sweetness of victory, but we have also been disappointed, abandoned by our fellow fighters, and attacked by slander that tarnished the people's trust.
“However, in each dark episode, we rose time and again - not because we had to, but because we knew that Barisan is the only hope for the stability and prosperity of the people,” said Noraini.
She also paid tribute to Barisan chairman and Umno president Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi for having held the coalition together when it became the opposition in 2018 and then returned as the government.
“This unity only matters if we translate it into real actions.
“Prices of essential goods are increasing and we must ensure that subsidies reach those who need them without leakage.
“The family economy needs to be empowered. Many women are hindered by a lack of capital and opportunities. We must ensure that micro-loan programmes and entrepreneurial training truly reach them. We do not want to see our women merely as spectators in the nation’s economic development,” said Noraini.
Earlier, Wanita MCA head Datuk Wong You Fong said that while the golden jubilee is a time to celebrate, it is a time for the coalition to plan the future.
“As Wanita Barisan, we are not only witnesses to this success but have also been part of this remarkable journey. Our close collaboration has shown the extraordinary potential of women in uniting, leading, and contributing to the country's progress.
“The year 2024 is indeed a very special year as we celebrate half a century of Barisan’s success. What’s even more exciting is that next year, Wanita MCA will also celebrate its 50th anniversary. This is a time for us not only to reflect on past achievements but also to plan for an even brighter future together.
“Since its establishment in 1975, Wanita MCA has been led by six dedicated female leaders. From women's social issues to active participation in the political arena, we have succeeded in bringing the voice of women to the highest levels in Malaysia.
“Through the strong support of Wanita Barisan, we have achieved excellent records in various elections, from general elections to by-elections.
“Furthermore, we have successfully placed more women in key positions in Parliament and the state assemblies. This proves that women are capable of making significant contributions in politics, the economy, culture, and education,” said Wong.
Barisan was formed in June 1974 and the coalition is celebrating its 50th year anniversary this year.
