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1st December, 2007
KOTA KINABALU: Sabah Chief Minister Datuk Seri Musa Haji Aman has described the appointment of Sabah-born Senator Penny Wong to the new Australian cabinet as a great honour for Sabah.
“I know her father and she is the first Sabah-born woman and the first Asian to join the Australian cabinet and I wish to congratulate her on her achievement,” he said here yesterday.
Wong has been made minister for climate change and water, with responsibility for international negotiations on the Kyoto treaty.
Musa expressed hope that she would forge close cooperation with Malaysia in the field of climate change, thus enhancing bilateral relations between Australia and Malaysia.
Meanwhile, Liberal Democratic Party president Datuk V.K. Liew said Malaysians should aspire to be successful in their respective pursuits just like Wong.
“We’re proud of her achievement. It goes to show that Malaysians can become successful and carve a name for themselves, including in the international arena,” he said.
Kota Belud Member of Parliament and former chief minister Datuk Seri Salleh Said Keruak was confident that Wong’s appointment would further strengthen relations between Australia and Malaysia, especially Sabah.
“Women’s contributions to the political arena and governance are being recognised not only in this country but also Australia. This is a positive development,” he said.
Puteri Umno deputy chief and Papar MP Rosnah Abdul Rashid Shirlin said the apppointment was an honour for Sabah-born women.
“It’s clear that Australia has no problem having a Malaysian-born woman serving under the new administration of Kevin Rudd. I believe that Wong will deliver what’s expected of her,” she said.
Her sentiments were echoed by Sabah Wanita Umno chief Senator Datuk Armani Mahiruddin and state Wanita Parti Bersatu Sabah chief Datin Jamilah Sulaiman. – Bernama
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