Wanita Gerakan Pulau Pinang did PGRM, Penang State and the nation proud! For the 7th time in a row, Wanita Gerakan celebrated with vigour, in deep tradition the International Womens’ Day 2009 on 8th March 2009. A stark contrast as compared to 8th March 2008, when a political tsunami left BN paralysed in Penang and four other states. It was heart wrenching then, as Wanita Gerakan had to take a bold step to decide on whether to continue paying tribute to “women of the world” despite the devastating loss of not only political representations but party and individual esteem, to hold our heads high up and show the world that a political loss in no way dents our enthusiasm.

For the first time in the history, Wanita Gerakan did all proud by performing percussion through the beating of Chinese-popular drum group led by Sdri. Rowena, Indian-popular drum group led by Sdri. Chandra and the Malay-popular kompang group led by Sdri. Hartini. Though inaugural, the music permeated a positive aura on the 11th floor Komtar @ Wonderland Restaurant.

The speeches saw party leaders delivering their thoughts on a silver platter. Sdri. Annie Chin, our organising chairman the lady in sultry green mentioned rightly that one day Malaysia may see a woman Prime Minister as “the hands that rock the cradle rules the world”. Not viable now but not impossible in the future! Who says dreaming is against the law? Sdri. Ng Siew Lai, our wanita chief looking yet so elegant in kebaya, further elaborated the need to eradicate violence against the women. She urged every individual to consciously make an effort to put an end to domestic violence. Of course the men said they are sometimes the victims too, and yes the wanita have taken note. Sdra. Teng Hock Nan, state chief, the gentleman in kurta reiterated that all men and women must play an important role together in eradicating violence against women. With his husky voice, as charming as he can be in his multi-lingual speech, he urged the women to play a bigger role in making our environment safe for women and children. He reminded us that in these trying economic times, it is crucial to focus on safety as crime is on the rise. He impressed the crowd with his command of Tamil, Mandarin, English and Bahasa. Our beloved guest of honour who we all so love dearly Sdra. Dr. Koh Tsu Koon, in traditional Chinese golden garb looking dashing, reinforced the very pertinent role women play by belting out that “the hands that rock the cradle rock the world”. He reinforced that there is no reason why if countries, the likes of India, Bangladesh, Pakistan, Australia and Vietnam can see a woman heralding the job of Prime Minister and President, then we cannot see the same unfolding in Malaysia.

The guest, including fellow members from BN component parties, had a good time as they had a unique opportunity to showcase the many traditional costumes. It was difficult to identify the background of fellow guests as the traditional costumes worn camouflaged the true identity of the wearer. One of them was emcee Sdri. Angelina, who akin to an angel in blue saree did a wonderful job with co-emcee Sdri. Jane in cheongsam. All in all, Beauty of Unity became unity of beauties. Wanita Gerakan was Malaysia Truly Asia! This is indeed a noble way of promoting unity and good will amongst the people. Indeed some guest did say they had goose pimples as there were unidentifiable varieties in the audience. The lucky draw managed to retain everybody’s interest to the last minute. We thank the sponsors who supported us in these bearish times. And of course, letting our hair down was the final nail in the golden box! To dance freely is indeed therapeutic.

We love Malaysia, we love Penang, we love Gerakan

Satu Hati, Satu Bangsa, Satu Negara!

by Geeta Suresh Chand Agarwal
PG Wanita Gerakan Vice Chairman