Changing our mindset towards Muslim female leaders


Abstract

MARCH 25 — With reference to the recent news report on the appointment of Jakim’s new director-general (DG), which takes effect on March 21, I would like to extend my heartiest congratulations to Datuk Hajah Hakimah Mohd Yusoff.

I personally welcome such news as a pleasant surprise. Being elected as the first woman to lead the Malaysian religious department is an inspirational feat worth commemorating.

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However, browsing through the public comments on Facebook since March 18th in response to this celebratory news is upsetting. Some Malaysian netizens (including women) publicly and unapologetically show resentment towards having a female DG for Jakim. Such a negative sentiment was displayed even when the announcement was accompanied by information on Datuk Hajah Hakimah’s qualifications and 30 years of service in relevant fields. If a male Muslim was appointed as Jakim’s DG, are such details even necessary, requested, scrutinised, or questioned?

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