OPENING ADDRESS
BY:
H.E. TAN SRI DATO’ (DR.)
JOHARI BIN ABDUL
PRESIDENT OF THE 46TH
AIPA GENERAL ASSEMBLY
AT THE 4TH COORDINATING
COMMITTEE MEETING OF WOMEN
PARLIAMENTARIANS OF THE ASEAN INTER-PARLIAMENTARY
ASSEMBLY (WAIPA) 2025
THEME:
STEERING INNOVATION, INCLUSIVITY AND DIVERSITY
THROUGH GENDER-BALANCED PARLIAMENTS FOR A FUTURE- READY ASEAN
DAMAI LAGOON RESORT, KUCHING,
SARAWAK
21-24
APRIL 2025
Bismillahir
Rahmanir Rahim
Distinguished Guests, Honourable Parliamentarians, Esteemed Delegates,
Ladies and Gentlemen,
1.
Assalamualaikum, Salam Sejahtera, Selamat
Datang! Alhamdulillah. We are truly grateful for His countless
blessings, which have enabled us to gather here today for this significant and momentous
occasion.
2.
It is both an honour and a privilege to welcome you to Malaysia
for the 4th Coordinating Committee Meeting of the Women Parliamentarians of the
ASEAN Inter-Parliamentary Assembly (WAIPA) 2025. Today, we do not meet merely
as parliamentarians, but as advocates, allies, and changemakers—united by a
shared mission: to advance gender equality, promote inclusive governance, and
shape a future-ready ASEAN.
3. To our esteemed delegates from across the region—thank you for your unwavering commitment and presence. Your participation today is more than symbolic. It represents a collective resolve to break barriers, redefine leadership, and leave a legacy of progress for generations to come.
5.
WAIPA
is more than just a platform—it is a powerful catalyst for action. Here,
dialogue becomes policy, alliances become movements, and commitments turn into
real, measurable change. Let us be clear: empowering women is not an act of
charity. It is a strategic imperative. When women have an equal seat at the
table, economies thrive, democracies deepen, and societies flourish.
6. Malaysia is proud to walk this path with you. Our 30% policy to increase women’s representation in decision-making roles is one step forward. But policy alone is not enough. We must confront systemic barriers, dismantle harmful stereotypes, and cultivate environments where women can lead confidently—without fear of discrimination or harassment.
Distinguished delegates,
7. The obstacles we face are both tangible and intangible. Deep-rooted cultural norms still question the legitimacy of women’s leadership. Unconscious bias still lurks in boardrooms, ballots, and beyond—keeping capable women on the sidelines of power and influence.
8. In the digital age, the threats are evolving. Online spaces, meant to connect and empower, have become battlegrounds where harassment seeks to silence women's voices. Economic inequality continues to block women’s access to capital, opportunities, and the tools needed to thrive
9. But where walls exist, we must build doors. Legislative reform must move beyond token quotas—towards true parity. Mentorship must evolve into sponsorship, where women are not only guided but championed. Our laws must be sharpened to protect, and our social norms must be rewritten to celebrate, not just tolerate, women’s leadership.
10. Let us make one thing abundantly clear: there can be no sustainable development if inequality persists. The Sustainable Development Goals are more than a checklist—they are our moral compass. Educating a girl changes not just her life, but the trajectory of her community. When women innovate, they don’t just build businesses—they build entire sectors. And when parliaments truly reflect the people they represent, democracy becomes more inclusive, credible, and just.
Distinguished Delegates,
11. As we begin our deliberations, let us move beyond rhetoric. Let this meeting be remembered for bold ideas, actionable strategies, and measurable outcomes. The decisions we make here will shape the future of ASEAN—one that is inclusive, equitable, and resilient.
12. In closing, I extend my deepest appreciation to all participants, organisers, and partners who have made this meeting possible. A special thank you to the Sarawak State Government for your warm hospitality and gracious support in hosting this important gathering.
13. Let us turn this meeting into a launchpad for progress. Let us become the generation of parliamentarians who didn’t just talk about equality—but delivered it. May our time together be transformative, our commitments unwavering, and our legacy—one of lasting impact for all women and girls across ASEAN.
Thank you, and let’s get to work.
Wassalamualaikum
Warahmatullahi Wabarakatuh.