Activist urges greater female representation in Sarawak politics

KUCHING (March 8): Greater women’s representation in Sarawak is being urged in conjunction with this year’s International Women’s Day (IWD).

In making this call, social activist Voon Shiak Ni noted that women currently make up only 6.1 per cent or five representatives in the State Legislative Assembly (DUN), which has a total of 82 seats.

“It is disappointing that the increased number of state seats from 71 to 82 was a missed opportunity to improve gender representation,” she said in a statement on Saturday to mark IWD, celebrated annually on March 8.

Voon said Sarawak must acknowledge that women remain significantly underrepresented in its highest legislative body.

She expressed hope that the state government’s planned increase of state seats from 82 to 99 will provide an opportunity to improve women’s representation.

Pointing out that women contribute immensely to Sarawak’s social, economic, and community development, she said their voices remain largely absent in key decision-making roles.

“This imbalance must be addressed if Sarawak truly aspires to be a progressive and inclusive society,” she said.

She urged political parties to take concrete steps to identify, support, and nominate more capable women candidates in future elections so they can play a stronger role in shaping policies affecting families, communities, and the state’s future.

“IWD should not only celebrate women’s achievements but also serve as a renewed call to ensure women are given fair opportunities to participate in leadership and governance,” she added.

While IWD celebrates the strength, resilience, and contributions of women across Sarawak, Voon stressed that the government must recognise that women have long been the backbone of families, communities, professions, and public service.

“Yet, their representation in leadership and decision-making roles remains far below their true potential.”

Empowering women leaders, she said, is not only a matter of equality but also essential for building a stronger, more inclusive Sarawak.

“Women bring balanced perspectives, strong community engagement, and compassionate leadership that strengthen governance and social development,” she pointed out.

Given this, she called on the Sarawak government to increase women’s representation in leadership and decision-making positions and formulate women-friendly policies, such as enhanced access to digital technology, entrepreneurship training, and removal of barriers to workforce participation.

“Sarawak’s future will be brighter when women stand equally at the decision-making table.

“Let us move forward with courage and commitment to ensure that the voices, talents, and leadership of women are fully recognised and empowered. Happy International Women’s Day 2026,” she said.