Just yesterday (July 2), 13 new ministers were sworn in before the Yang di-Pertuan Agong, bringing the total number of ministers in the Pakatan Harapan government to 25. On top of that, 23 deputy ministers were also sworn in for each of the ministries.
One of the new deputy ministers was Hannah Yeoh, who is also MP for Segambut. She was sworn in as the Women, Family and Community Development deputy minister.
Following this new appointment, she has vowed to be the voice of the children in Malaysia and to speak up for those who cannot speak up for themselves, reported Malay Mail.
She said that children do not have the ability to uphold their own rights and expressed her desire to change that.
“Children are often victimised without being defended. I suggest we start fixing the situation from now,” she said.
“I am committed to become their voice in Parliament and I will fully represent their rights. Pray that I will not disappoint all Malaysians.”
She then added that being a wife and mother herself gave her what she needed to be in this ministry, and that it had prepared her for this new responsibility.
“My role as a wife and mother helped me understand what the portfolio demands. In fact, this is the portfolio that I hold closest to my heart because I believe families are the backbone of a nation. I hope my presence will make a difference.”
Yeoh expressed her gratitude towards Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad for giving her the platform to serve the country on a larger capacity, adding that she takes pride in becoming a deputy to Datuk Seri Dr Wan Azizah Wan Ismail, whom she deemed “inspirational”.
“I would like to give my assurance that I will always help the minister so that the Ministry can achieve its missions and visions,” she said.
Woman power at its best. You go, girl!
Also read: Meet Hannah Yeoh, The First Female and Youngest State Speaker