Julita’s appointment a boost for female leadership

KOTA KINABALU (Dec 1): Sabah DAP Women chief and Pakatan Harapan Sabah Women secretary Bronica Sikula has congratulated Datuk Julita Mojungki on her appointment as the Sabah Minister of Women, Health and People’s Well-being.

In a statement on Monday, Bronica said the appointment is a recognition of women’s leadership in the Sabah administration, in line with the aspirations of the Wanita Harapan Sabah 2025 Commitment, which emphasises the role of women as pillars of family well-being, community development and overall state progress.

In tandem with this commitment, she stressed that women’s leadership must be strengthened not only at the ministerial level, but also within the ranks of assistant ministers.

Bronica also pointed out that only five out of 73 Sabah State Legislative Assembly seats, or 6.85 per cent, are currently held by women. As such, she said the appointment of nominated assembly members should prioritise women to reduce the wide gender gap in representation.

It is hoped that future appointments of assistant ministers and appointed assembly members will be given to capable, principled and people-centric female leaders, she added.

“This step will ensure the continuity of inclusive policies and strengthen the voice of women in decision-making processes that directly affect the well-being of the people of Sabah,” she said.

While describing Julita’s appointment as an important step towards empowering women’s leadership, Bronica stressed that the effort must be continued through collective commitment.

She called on all parties, from the grassroots to state institutions, to continue supporting courageous and principled women leaders.

“With the spirit of Wanita Harapan Sabah 2025, we believe women’s leadership will be a driving force towards a more prosperous, just and hopeful Sabah,” she said.