KOTA KINABALU: Sabah should set up a dedicated ministry to address women's issues in the state, says former deputy minister Datuk Seri Azizah Mohd Dun.
Noting that Sarawak had set up its Women, Childhood and Community Well-being Ministry, Azizah said it was important to ensure that the women's empowerment agenda is elevated.
"Sarawak already has one, so why not Sabah too? If we have a dedicated ministry for women, many matters can be resolved more quickly and effectively," she said.
Azizah, who chairs the Institute of Development Studies (IDS) Sabah, said this after delivering her 2025 New Year address at an event on Thursday (Jan 9).
She said women made up 50% of the state's population and establishing such a ministry would go beyond the current goal of achieving 30% women's participation in decision-making positions.
When asked about a possible overlap with the existing state Community Development and People's Well-being Ministry, Azizah said the proposed Women's Ministry would have a distinct focus.
"The ministry will specifically handle women's needs and issues, especially in areas like business development, where women's perspectives and experiences are important," she said.
On poverty eradication efforts, Azizah said they would focus on eight districts in 2025, namely Tongod, Beluran, Pitas, Kinabatangan, Kota Marudu, Tuaran, Ranau and Lahad Datu.
"This initiative aligns with Sabah's broader economic development goals and also aims to boost household incomes," she said.
This includes promoting rural entrepreneurship by supporting existing businesses and encouraging new ventures, with a focus on creating sustainable local economies and job opportunities.
