Ketari State Representative (ADUN) Young Syefura Othman becomes the Malay representative elected to the Central Executive Committee (CEC) of Democratic Action Party (DAP) for 2022. She is one of the 10 Malay representatives who contested the recent election, in which 93 members participated.
In the recent election, Young Syefura Othman made her debut in the party’s top leadership and received a total of 991 votes. She garnered the most among the Malay representatives and is the only woman to provide a greater balance in political representation.
Born on 9 November 1989, her inclusiveness is essential in order to increase the number of women in Malaysian politics. Her success is apparent because she is qualified on so many levels to ensure women leaders are at the forefront of building leadership in Malaysia’s government.
Upon her recent victory, Motherhood.com.my couldn’t resist but to get in touch with Young Syefura for an exclusive chat. Keep reading to check out what she had to say!
Women’s political involvement is advancing in our country. Can you share your thoughts on this? Do women finally have a voice in our local politics as compared to previous years?
Women have been involved in politics for quite some time. Combining public advocacy and incisive understanding of politics, many of them are standing up for their rights. If we look at female political figures such as Shamsiah Fakeh, Khatijah Sidek and Aisyah Ghani, these are among the most influential ones.
Aisyah Ghani is Malaysia’s first female senator and they are the pioneers of women’s continuous success in politics. Their spirit and speech to fight for women’s rights are being embraced by the younger generation. Women can finally have a voice despite fighting for a chance to be heard so many years ago.
More opportunities have opened up for women especially among the younger generation. We are now able to play critical roles in becoming outstanding leaders across the nation.
There was a time when our voices were being shut, especially those who ventured into politics. We were merely being listened to but not heard nor taken seriously. Alhamdulillah, now time has changed and the roles for women in politics are being supported more.
We have now begun to be taken into account in determining government policies and implementing affairs regarding women, children and families. I think there is a need for more women’s representation and voice in parliament as well as in Dewan Undangan Negeri (DUN). This is to ensure that these policies of the federal government and in the state government are reflected for women, children and society.
We rarely see male politicians raising issues such as domestic violence, underage marriage, and sexual harassment in parliament or state assembly sittings. These matters were raised by women politicians with the help of non-governmental organisation (NGO) and then it became the focus.
There are many more issues related to women that need to be taken seriously. That is why women’s representation and roles are a must. There should be more women included in the near future.
As one of the most influential women in politics, what are your hopes for Malaysian women in politics across all levels in Malaysia?
I hope more women will be appointed as leaders. Of course, I also hope there will be a woman Prime Minister for our country in the future. Women should be given equal opportunities to lead and to be in the same position as men.
We have to get rid of the stereotypes that women cannot lead because of our emotions. That is absolutely untrue. Same goes for the thought that women should be led by men. We are in a new era now and no longer living in the past where there were doubts or questions on women’s suitability regarding leadership.
Women are now able to lead and have opinions that need to be discussed. Our views and opinions matter to reflect the government policies. I certainly hope to see a lot of women at the top of the game; whether in politics or the corporate field. Our contributions are critical and crucial for the country’s development.
What are your thoughts regarding the involvement of the younger generation in politics, especially women in our country?
Our country has many talented and incredibly smart people that can represent women in politics, no matter what their ideologies are. There are those who are trustworthy, corruption-free, able to make their own decisions, brave and unafraid of intimidation from various parties too.
Young women’s contributions are valuable. They can lend their expertise and share their tangible solutions in determining the future of our country.
Your husband, Muhammad Edrin Nordin, looks charming as always! We understand that you are busy carrying out tasks and responsibilities these days. Can you share a few tips on how you juggle the time to inspire Malaysian mummies?
To be honest, working as a people’s representative does not have a fixed working time. Addressing people’s needs isn’t an easy task. There are days that I can be very busy. But there are also days where I will be able to find some time to lay back and relax for a bit.
It has become the norm for me to leave for work early in the morning and come back home late at night. I’m so thankful that I have a husband who understands that my job can be very demanding. He takes good care of our house, too.
Alhamdulillah, I feel so blessed beyond measure to have a partner who is very understanding and extremely helpful. For me, some of the most important keys in a relationship include understanding each other, having each other’s backs and always communicating to have that spark in making our relationship more wonderful than it is.
Any plans to add a bundle of joy to your family soon?
Having a child is a blessing that comes from Allah SWT. InsyaAllah, our hearts couldn’t be happier when the time comes and we pray to Him for everything to be at ease.
Can you share with us what are your plans for the month of Ramadan?
I have planned many programs to be with the residents of Ketari. These include breaking fast, performing tarawih and moreh with them. Bringing the community together in Ketari is crucial because we have been absent from festivities due to the pandemic.
I just want to make sure the residents of Ketari will have a meaningful Aidilfitri celebration this year and to make each moment count. I am also allocating some time to organise a welfare program for Aidilfitri contributions for those in need, as well as some other programs with Democratic Action Party Socialist Youth (DAPSY).
Can you tell us an unforgettable moment that you have experienced in the month of Ramadan?
There are plenty, actually. But I have to say that one of the most unforgettable experiences during the month of Ramadan is being able to go for suhoor with the frontliners on duty. It has been a challenging time for everyone and being able to have suhoor with them is an amazing lifetime opportunity.
What is the one suhoor dish that you must have every Ramadan?
To be honest, I am actually a simple person when it comes to suhoor. The most important thing for me during the month of Ramadan is to be able to get up and drink lots of water. Speaking of a suhoor dish, I’ll have white rice with fried egg and a drizzle of soy sauce. It is more than enough for me and that is my favourite dish for suhoor.
Last question: What is your husband’s favourite dish and why?
*laughs* He loves crab instant noodles. He said it tasted different from most of the dishes he had. Plus, preparing these two are super easy and can fulfil him at any time whenever he is hungry.
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