KUALA LUMPUR – Deputy Foreign Minister Datuk Kamaruddin Jaffar took a swipe at the US in Parliament today over its inaction to solve issues pertaining to women’s rights in Afghanistan.
During Question Time in Parliament, Kamaruddin said foreign forces ruling Afghanistan for two decades failed to unravel women’s rights-related issues, adding that it would take a longer time for the Taliban government to iron out these problems.
“Although the US government controlled the country for two decades, the interests of women were not taken care of.
“So, how can the new government change things so fast after being in power for only two months?” Kamaruddin told the Dewan Rakyat today.
Nevertheless, Kamaruddin made Malaysia’s stance towards Afghanistan clear – Malaysia supports the protection of women’s rights in the nation.
The deputy minister was answering a question by Lim Guan Eng (Bagan-PH) concerning the country’s stance towards Afghanistan after the Taliban takeover.
He said, via the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), the approach to Afghanistan would be to ensure humanitarian support and development in the country.
Kamaruddin said the rights of the Afghan people as a whole must be protected, adding that OIC has agreed to help the nation achieve peace through a negotiation and reconciliation process.
As for recognition of the Taliban-controlled Afghan government, Kamaruddin said there are factors to consider such as legitimacy, inclusivity of government, and women involvement.
“The involvement of women in Afghanistan’s government is not only important to protect their rights, but their contribution to nation-building is crucial as well.”
Meanwhile, when asked by Mohamad Sabu (Kota Raja-PH) regarding Islamic State terrorist operations in Afghanistan that sometimes involve Malaysian operatives, Kamaruddin explained that Wisma Putra is observing the situation and sharing information with national security agencies. – The Vibes, October 25, 2021
