KOTA KINABALU: Women's rights in leadership and political integrity should be safeguarded, said Parti Gagasan Rakyat women chief Datuk Redonah Bahanda.
Her remarks comes amid a recent incident where Kunak Datuk Norazlinah Arif had lodged a police report after she was allegedly 'punched' by a fellow assemblyman during the just concluded state assembly sitting here.
https://www.nst.com.my/news/nation/2024/11/1138855/kunak-assemblyman-lod...
The Warisan state assemblyman Sarifuddin Hata, however, was reported to have apologised to Norazlinah.
Redonah described the episode as a violation of professionalism, ethics, and justice.
"This incident not only tarnishes the political institution but also sends a harmful signal to women who aspire to leadership," she said in a statement.
Redonah said that violence, particularly against women, remains a significant challenge that needs urgent attention and urged authorities to take firm disciplinary action against those responsible.
Additionally, she advocated for the introduction of stricter operational procedures to protect women, especially those in politics, from physical and mental harm.
Redonah also suggested training programmes for political leaders, focusing on conflict management, communication, and ethics to prevent similar incidents in the future.
"Leaders should set an example for society, fostering an environment of respect and fairness, particularly towards women," she said.