DATUK SERI Dr Wan Azizah Wan Ismail, the wife of Malaysia's Prime Minister, has called on women to boldly embrace leadership roles and play a more significant part in shaping the nation's future.
Speaking at an event in Kuala Lumpur, she encouraged women to step forward with confidence, recognising their potential to serve as key agents of change in building a more prosperous society.
The Member of Parliament for Bandar Tun Razak underscored the critical need for women who are visionary, wise, and courageous to assume leadership positions in today's rapidly evolving world.
"History has shown us that women have always played a pivotal role in shaping societies, particularly in Islamic civilisation,"Bernama cited Dr Wan Azizah saying. "Take Saidatina Khadijah, for example—she was not only the wife of Prophet Muhammad SAW but also a successful businesswoman and a crucial supporter of Islamic teachings.
“Similarly, Saidatina Aisyah, renowned for her scholarship and as a prominent narrator of hadith, has had a lasting impact on generations of scholars."
She stressed the leadership roles of women in Islam have never been confined to the background.
"Women have contributed significantly to administration, education, and community development, leaving a direct and enduring influence," she said. "Women are not merely complements to men; they are leaders in their own right, capable of driving meaningful change through wisdom and insight."
During her speech at the ‘Ilmu MADANI: Wanita Mukminah Kepimpinan Berhikmah’ programme, Dr Wan Azizah also touched upon the qualities that define effective leadership.
She stated that wise leadership should be rooted in faith and characterised by knowledge, discernment, justice, equality, and a strong sense of love and empathy.
As part of the event, Dr Wan Azizah presented Aidilfitri donations to 1,000 underprivileged women from across the Federal Territory of Kuala Lumpur, further demonstrating her commitment to supporting those in need.
Her message resonated as a powerful reminder of the critical role that women can and should play in leadership, not only in Malaysia but across the world. – March 23, 2025
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