Unity meet: Potential of unity govt must not be wasted, says Wanita BN chief

Photo: Bernama

KUALA LUMPUR: The potential of the unity government should not be wasted, says Wanita Barisan Nasional chief Datuk Seri Dr Noraini Ahmad.

Noraini said the unity government had an all-inclusive and clear framework and structure which went beyond political lines, race and religion.

"This cooperation is yearned for by all," she said during her speech at the Unity Government National Women's Convention at the World Trade Centre here on Sunday (May 14).

"We cannot delay any more. We must bring this cooperation and stability to the grassroots so that all Malaysians can experience it," she added.

Noraini admitted that initially there was "awkwardness" working with former political rivals.

"Who would have thought that I’d be sitting at the same table as YB Aiman (Wanita Pakatan Harapan chief Aiman Athirah Sabu) and that I would be working with YB Chong Eng (Wanita DAP chief). But we have begun," she said.

"With a huge coalition that is full of experience, this potential should not be wasted.

"This is not the time to find fault. This is not the time for us to bring up old stories. We have to focus," she added.

She said the convention should be a start to push for a greater agenda and goal.

Ahead of the six state elections, Noraini said a huge responsibility awaits the unity government.

"We are going to face the challenge together," she added.

Noraini said there were many questions raised when the unity government was formed.

"The fact is such a coalition is not new and is not something we should feel strange and awkward about," she said, adding that unity governments had been formed in several developed countries.

She said Malaysia needs an economic policy that was ideal for everyone.

"All this is achievable if we stay united and carry out our responsibilities with honesty and sincerity.

"What is more important is for our unity to remain and political stability to continue. That is the key to our success," she added.

Meanwhile, Wanita Pakatan chief Aiman said all Madani development programmes must count women as active participants.

A total of 19 parties mostly from the four major coalitions under the unity government umbrella convened for the maiden unity government national convention on Sunday.