SHAH ALAM: Bersatu’s Srikandi and Srikandi Muda wings must work together to develop the next generation of women leaders in the party, says Srikandi chief Datuk Mas Ermieyati Samsudin.
She said there is no need for Srikandi members to fear the Srikandi Muda wing, whose members are women aged 35 and below, noting that these talents will ensure the continuity of the party’s women leadership in coming years.
"There was much opposition towards the formation of Srikandi Muda with some even saying it would be better served as a bureau under Srikandi.
"However, I firmly said that I support them as I believe it can further empower women in Bersatu.
"Srikandi Muda will be a platform for us to develop new leaders who will lead Srikandi in the future,” she said in her policy speech during the wing’s annual general assembly here on Saturday (Sept 6).
She also said Srikandi Muda members will soon automatically become Srikandi members once they reach 36 years old.
"If we want Srikandi to remain relevant, we must act as a bridge between the older and younger generations," she said.
On another matter, Mas Ermieyati said strengthening Perikatan must always be the priority.
This was in response to the formation of a loose coalition of 12 opposition parties, including Bersatu, to address people’s concerns.
"It must always be a priority to strengthen Perikatan. If we are strong, then our other cooperation efforts will be strong as well,” she said.
Muhyiddin had announced the loose coalition in August.
Apart from Bersatu, it comprises PAS, Gerakan, Pejuang, Muda, Parti Rakyat India Malaysia, Parti Bumiputera Perkasa Malaysia, Parti Progresif Penduduk Malaysia, Barisan Jemaah Islamiah Se-Malaysia, Parti Sosialis Malaysia, Parti Kemajuan Malaysia and Parti Perikatan India Muslim Nasional.
