“At least we think before we speak!” – Hannah Yeoh Responds to Sanusi’s Sexist “Betina” Remark

The things we said can potentially come back to “haunt” us, and as leaders who serve the people, a lot of thought has to be given prior to saying something that may offend others. 

As for the Menteri Besar of Kedah, he recently found himself under fire after making a sexist remark by labeling women as “betina“, and said they cannot be ministers as they take longer time to get ready. His remark did not sit well with many Malaysians who demanded an apology from him, and Pakatan Harapan’s Hannah Yeoh also had a lot to say about the matter.

“This is not the level of a Menteri Besar”

Hannah said that this isn’t the first time Datuk Seri Muhammad Sanusi spoke without thinking about consequences.

“If the leader of a state doesn’t think before he speaks, then his plans to develop the state were also not thought carefully.”

She also believed that this is not the leader that folks in Kedah deserve and they should reject leaders like Sanusi, as reported by The Malaysian Insights. 

“Don’t give him another chance to make such statements,” Hannah added.

The representative of Segambut also believed that Sanusi knew the consequences of his sexist remarks, which were reflections of what he truly had in mind. She was sure that the Menteri Besar of Kedah knew that his remarks offended women, and not only he did not apologise for it but he justified his statement.

“He might apologise and say it was all a misunderstanding, but that’s his afterthought.”

Women are hardworking everywhere

In response to Sanusi’s statement that he was merely describing the real-life situation in Sik, Kedah, Hannah clarified that all women, regardless of where there are, are hardworking. Most importantly, they are capable of doing something that Hannah believes Sanusi couldn’t.

“As women, even if we’re not ministers, at least we think before we speak.”

She then added,

“If women take longer time to get ready, then he should take a longer time to think before he is ready to be out there and meet the rakyat.”

Words hurt, and they can be offensive too. As leaders, it is important to be mindful of your words as the things that you utter may bring unwanted consequences. 

Also read: “Rain or shine!” – Hannah Yeoh’s Supporters Never Left Her Campaign Although Drenched in Heavy Rain