“How demeaning!” – PM Slammed by M’sians For ‘Insensitive’ Poster on International Woman’s Day

When it comes to gender, there are plenty of things that need to be fixed in terms of how women are seen in our society and their role in it.

Previously, Malaysian Ministers have been slammed for their sexist comments. Now, the Prime Minister himself has been criticised by Malaysians for his ‘insensitive’ poster on International Women’s Day which was yesterday (8 March).

In conjunction with the special day, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri took to social media to show his gratitude and appreciation to all women.

“A woman’s sacrifice cannot be rivalled. They are the hopes of a nation and play a big role in an organisation as well as play a part in a country’s success,” he wrote.

Selamat Hari Wanita Sedunia.

Pengorbanan wanita tiada noktah dan tandingannya.

Wanita adalah harapan bangsa, berperanan besar dalam sesebuah organisasi dan menyumbang kepada kejayaan negara. pic.twitter.com/mGugBVqNlr

— Ismail Sabri (@IsmailSabri60) March 8, 2022

The poster accompanying his statement is of a woman fixing his shirt buttons.

Malaysians slam him for the poster

Plenty of Malaysians took offense to his poster as they said that it’s simply enforcing the typical gender stereotypes that exist.

One user said,” Ladies. I’m here to remind you that our roles are not just wives… so do learn to button your clothes yourself.”

“But looking at the picture it seems as if you’re celebrating yourself. Are you a woman,” asked another user.

The poster also managed to capture the attention of former Deputy Minister Women, Family and Community Development, Hannah Yeoh, who said that she disagreed with the choice of image used in the poster.

“Understand the theme this year please.”

Saya setuju dengan quote peranan besar wanita dalam kejayaan negara tapi saya tidak setuju dengan gambar pilihan @bernamadotcom – understand the theme this year please. https://t.co/3nT23BD1fY

— Hannah Yeoh (@hannahyeoh) March 8, 2022

What do you think? Is it an overreaction or simply insensitive? Let us know in the comments.

Also read: Minister Who Said ‘orangutans will kill you first’ Receives 2 Awards For Women’s Empowerment