Women Are Pillars Of Nation-building In Malaysia MADANI - Anwar

KOTA KINABALU, June 13 (Bernama) -- Women must not be marginalised in the nation's development agenda, as they are a vital pillar in nurturing knowledgeable, ethical and resilient generations capable of realising the aspirations of Malaysia MADANI, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said.

He said a country's development should not be measured solely by physical progress such as the construction of skyscrapers, technological advancement and artificial intelligence (AI), but must also be strengthened through the cultivation of character and moral values.

According to him, material progress that is not accompanied by human development will cause a nation to lose its soul and sense of direction.

"Countries in both the East and the West all speak about development, but under MADANI, development must be infused with soul and spirit.

"We can build buildings, factories and modern technology, but what is more important is developing individuals who possess values, piety and good morals," he said when officiating at the Melangkah Bersama MADANI: Faithful Women, Resilient Women programme at the Sabah International Convention Centre here today.

Also present were Sabah Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor, Minister in the Prime Minister's Department (Sabah and Sarawak Affairs) Datuk Mustapha Sakmud and Deputy Minister in the Prime Minister's Department (Religious Affairs) Marhamah Rosli.

The Prime Minister said the role of women, particularly as mothers, is crucial as a child's basic education begins at home.

"If those roots are nurtured well by parents, we can better ensure the emergence of a healthy and vibrant MADANI nation," he said.

He also said that Islamic history has proven that women have always played a significant role in the development of civilisation and the struggle to uphold the faith.

Anwar cited the sacrifice of Saidatina Khadijah, who stood as a devoted companion and provided peace, confidence and unwavering support to Prophet Muhammad (SAW) during the challenging early years of Islam's propagation.

"Every important episode in Islamic history is inseparable from the role of women, and for that reason we must be convinced that without the contribution of women, it would be difficult for us to build the MADANI nation that we aspire to," he said.

He also reminded women to remain steadfast in facing life's various challenges and to make patience a cornerstone in raising children and strengthening social institutions.

He said that although every family faces challenges, Muslims should view every trial with patience and use it as an opportunity to strengthen their faith and resolve.

According to him, building families, communities and the nation requires patience coupled with wisdom and sincerity.

"Patience in raising children, patience in building a family and patience in shaping a good society. Indeed, building a nation also requires patience and wisdom," he said.

-- BERNAMA