“What kind of minister would say that?” PKR Wanita chief Zuraida Kamaruddin said in her speech at the end of the 12th PKR Wanita Congress at the Petaling Jaya Civic Centre.
“He is a pervert,” she told the gathering of about 800 members who were holding placards objecting to the assertion made by Tengku Adnan, who is popularly known as Ku Nan.
Tengku Adnan, who is also Umno secretary-general, made the remark during a National Transformation 2050 (TN50) forum on May 17 in response to a question from a forum participant who expressed her fear over the current lack of public safety.
Zuraida also told women not to be afraid to speak up against men, adding that not many women were coming forward to involve themselves in politics.
The Ampang MP said many men were unhappy with her for saying such things, and some had even told her that the Ampang seat should be held by a male.
“I told them to try (taking over). This position is not easily rolled out to a person,” she said.
“Don’t be afraid. Don’t be shy. You can do it,” she added to applause.
Zuraida praised the quality of the debates held among delegates who had spoken on the need for women to be active in politics.
“They understand the issues on gender. (In) those days, they spoke about widows. But now they are aware of the (other) issues,” she said.
During a press conference earlier today, Zuraida had announced her decision to relinquish her post to the wing’s deputy chief Haniza Talha in the party election expected within the next year.
She said it would give Haniza enough time to take over.
She also asked others to follow the example set by the women’s wing in ensuring a smooth transition in leadership positions.
Speaking on her new role, Haniza said it was a heavy responsibility.
“Zuraida has set a high standard. I will not be able to do it without the support of all,” she said.
FMT has contacted Tengku Adnan on Zuraida’s comments but has received no response as of yet.
Ku Nan’s remark shows lack of respect for women, says Maria Chin