KUCHING: Sarawak State Legislative Assembly (DUN) Speaker, Tan Sri Datuk Amar Mohamad Asfia Awang Nassar, emphasised that there is no gender discrimination when it comes to leadership.
He said that women now play a vital role in shaping the political and economic landscape of the region.
Speaking at the 2025 Women ASEAN Inter-Parliamentary Assembly (WAIPA) Coordinating Committee Dinner here on Tuesday night, he praised the achievements and capabilities of women – particularly in the Southeast Asian context – which he described as a long-standing stage for global figures capable of managing power wisely.
“I’ve heard all day about the strength of women. At universities and colleges, the top achievers are women.
“I myself have an amazing daughter. Therefore, there is no gender discrimination.
“Anyone who is qualified and capable can lead,” he said.
Asfia also linked the role of women in today’s multipolar world with ASEAN’s need to maintain stability, prosperity and cross-border cooperation.
He recalled influential figures such as Tunku Abdul Rahman, Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien III and Lee Kuan Yew, who achieved independence for their respective countries without bloodshed – symbols of Southeast Asia’s wisdom and leadership strength.
He further called for stronger regional cooperation and the empowerment of parliamentary institutions through the active participation of women, especially in addressing current global geopolitical challenges.
“With our trade reaching USD3.5 trillion, we are no longer a minor power.
“This is the time for us to rise as a blessed force in Southeast Asia, the South Pacific, and on the global stage,” he added.
