Give them a chance, Prime Minister Muhyiddin Yassin said on the appointment of the minister and deputy in charge of the Women, Family and Community Development Ministry.
He was responding to concerns of women’s rights groups over the lack of action by minister Rina Harun and her deputy Siti Zailah Mohd Yusoff, who has come under fire for her controversial views.
“I understand (the concerns). Give them a chance. I briefed Rina about what to do and manage because she is new there,” he said at a press conference after chairing the maiden Economic Action Council meeting.
He said it will take some time for Rina to get used to her new portfolio.
“It is not that she totally lacks experience. A new portfolio requires her to take a little bit more time to study.
“I have told her to work closely with her deputy,” he said.
Admitting that Siti Zailah “has certain views on certain matters”, Muhyiddin assured that the government’s position on certain issues is more important than the personal views of ministers, which they will have to accept.
“Bear with us. We will manage it, God willing,” he said.
Siti Zailah has been criticised for her controversial views, including her stance on the attire of Muslim air stewardesses, which she viewed as not being shariah-compliant.
According to media reports, women’s rights groups had expressed their concerns over the appointment of Rina and Siti Zailah mainly because their track records allegedly do not inspire confidence.