Yeoh defends DPM on child bride issue
KUALA LUMPUR: Hannah Yeoh has defended Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Wan Azizah Wan Ismail’s crusade against child marriage, in which the latter was chided over a perceived reluctance to act against the man who married an 11-year-old girl.
Yeoh, who is deputy women, family and community development minister, said Dr Wan Azizah had always been committed to the cause, even at the expense of her reputation.
Admitting that addressing the issue was a collective responsibility with other ministries and agencies, Yeoh said it was Dr Wan Azizah’s focus and gentle disposition that had helped ease the sufferings of those in need.
“I have read some news reports criticising Kak Wan about the 11year-old child bride issue and while the matter is now in the hands of the A-G (attorney-general), I would like to share with you my one-month observation of working under her leadership.
“At any given time, the heart of a doctor would overshadow all the other roles she carries. You would have probably watched how she rushed off stage to check on YB Hanipa Maidin (Sepang member of parliament) when he collapsed at the outdoor assembly.
“I have also personally seen how she dashed off the Deputy Prime Minister @ Minister’s chair to comfort victims of sexual harassment when they started crying while sharing about their ordeal.
“I also witnessed her conversation with baby Adam’s parents (toddler Adam Raykal Mohd Sufi Naeif who was found dead in a fridge) and observed how she covered all angles of assistance needed for the parents to move on.
“In other cases, she would remind me of the need to look at all angles (something which I sometimes overlook in my pursuit of a fast outcome).
“I also saw her the morning when the late Balakong assemblyman Eddie Ng passed away in a car crash. She had to compose herself in a meeting. Professional yet her love for her comrade was evident,” Yeoh said on Facebook.
She said despite attacks on Dr Wan Azizah, she refused to turn against her naysayers.
“She always takes the higher ground of giving people the benefit of doubt. When she commits to a cause or policy, I saw how persistent she was in having it signed, sealed and delivered.
“While I admit criticism on the speed of handling the child bride issue, I would also like you to know that we are dependant on other ministries to do their part.
“In these weeks, I can assure you that her utmost priority is to protect that child even at the expense of her own reputation.”
Yeoh reminded critics to understand Dr Wan Azizah’s contributions and character instead of jumping to conclusions.
“Sometimes we forget how far we have come since May 9. Here is a woman who will never steal your tax money, an intelligent doctor in her own right to lead and selfless enough to make way for others.”