Wong pledges support for everyday Malaysians
KUALA LUMPUR: Newly appointed senator Datuk Wong You Fong has pledged to champion issues affecting everyday Malaysians, acting as a voice for women, families and young people facing social and economic pressures.
Wong, who was sworn in at Dewan Negara yesterday, said she also hoped to contribute constructively to policies that strengthen national unity, social stability and sustainable economic growth.
The MCA Wanita chief and senior lawyer described her appointment as a great honour and an even greater responsibility.
Women’s participation in decision-making, she said, was vital for Malaysia’s future.
“Women bring different perspectives, experiences and priorities into policymaking – especially in areas such as education, family well-being, healthcare, women’s safety, youth development, mental health and community welfare.
“A balanced and progressive nation requires both male and female perspectives in decision-making. Giving women meaningful opportunities at the highest levels of leadership is not about symbolism, but about strengthening the quality, inclusiveness and compassion of national policies,” she said.
While acknowledging that progress had been made, Wong noted that women were still under-represented in leadership compared with many developed countries and called for more opportunities, mentoring and exposure to nurture the next generation of women leaders.
“I would like to encourage all women in Malaysia to believe in their abilities and never underestimate their potential. Do not be afraid to participate, to voice your views and to take on leadership roles,” she said.
“I humbly express my deepest gratitude to His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim, King of Malaysia, for consenting to my appointment as a member of the Dewan Negara.
“My thanks also go to the Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, Deputy Prime Minister and Barisan Nasional chairman Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi and MCA president Datuk Seri Dr Wee Ka Siong.”
Wong is the only woman among the 13 senators sworn in yesterday. She has held key posts at the central, state, division and branch levels in MCA and has led Wanita MCA nationally since December 2022, while also heading Johor Wanita MCA and the Pulai division.
She is also a non-independent non-executive director of Star Media Group Bhd.
Congratulating Wong, Dr Wee said he was confident she would discharge her duties effectively and serve the country and champion women’s empowerment better at a higher level.
“With her distinguished academic background, as well as extensive experience in the legal profession and community service, she will continue to contribute meaningfully to the nation and champion the advancement and empowerment of women,” he said on Facebook yesterday.
Wanita MCA secretary-general Chan Quin Er said Wong’s elevation to the Dewan Negara was both a recognition and a call to service.
“At a time when women remain under-represented in Malaysia’s political leadership, this moment carries deeper meaning for all women striving for a stronger voice at the nation’s decision-making table,” she said, adding that Wanita MCA believed capable and principled women must continue to be entrusted with leadership roles for the country’s benefit.
Apart from Wong, the other new members of the Senate are acting Bentong Umno chief Datuk Seri Mohamad Zaini Salleh, Sabah DAP chairman Datuk Phoong Jin Zhe, Johor DAP vice-chairman Sheikh Umar Bagharib Ali, Sarawak DAP assistant secretary Larry Asap and R. Thiagarajah.
Six senators were reappointed – Tan Sri Low Kian Chuan, Prof Datuk Seri Dr Awang Sariyan, Datuk Dr Mohd Hatta Md Ramli, Isaiah D. Jacob, Mohd Hasbie Muda and Abun Sui Anyit – while Abdul Nasir Idris was re-elected by the Kedah State Legislative Assembly.
