KUCHING: Women, Early Childhood and Community Wellbeing Development Minister Datuk Seri Fatimah Abdullah expressed confidence that newly appointed Deputy State Secretary (Administration) Datuk Felicia Tan Ya Hua will continue to champion women, children and community wellbeing issues following her promotion.
Speaking at the handover of duties ceremony at Level 8, Baitulmakmur Building II today, Fatimah said Tan’s experience at the ministry, although brief, had given her valuable insight into issues that are central to the ministry’s mandate.
“And for us, not only women in this ministry but women across Sarawak, we feel proud that a woman has been appointed as Deputy State Secretary,” she said.
Fatimah stressed that Tan’s appointment was based on merit and performance, not gender.
She said Tan’s one-year tenure as permanent secretary had allowed her to understand the ministry’s struggles and aspirations, particularly in advancing women empowerment and community wellbeing.
“Although one year may seem short, for us it is enough for her to know the issues, especially issues related to women, how we look at things from a women’s perspective, and what we emphasise under the Sarawak Women and Family Department,” she said.
Fatimah also expressed hope that Tan would continue to remember the ministry’s priorities in her new role at the state secretariat.
“We hope she will remember the issues close to our hearts, access to quality and affordable early childhood education, and our KPI to ensure 100 per cent access for all children in Sarawak,” she said.
She added that the ministry remained committed to addressing 13 key social issues under its community wellbeing agenda and strengthening support systems for vulnerable, disadvantaged and needy groups through the Social Welfare Department.
Meanwhile, Fatimah welcomed the appointment of Nur Alina Abdullah @ Colliner Gohe as the new permanent secretary and Kathereen Lalai Eddie Saga as deputy permanent secretary, noting that both officers were not new to the ministry.
“They already understand the ministry, so this shortens the learning curve and gives them more time to focus on the way forward,” she said.
