June 7, 2023
Media statement by Member of Parliament for Bukit Bendera, Syerleena Abdul Rashid on the 7th of June, in Georgetown, Penang:
Bukit Bendera MP Syerleena Abdul Rashid has lodged a police report against Kedah Menteri Besar Muhammad Sanusi Md Nor for his usage of inappropriate words.
“By using inappropriate words and completely ignoring the gender composition of his audience, he creates a toxic environment that demoralises and undermines the respect that is needed for a responsible leader,” Syerleena said in a statement today.
She said Sanusi uttered a Hokkien word referring to a male reproductive organ during a Perikatan Nasional rally in Permatang Pauh, Penang, recently.
A recent video showed Sanusi addressing a crowd, saying that no Chinese men were told to circumcise in Kedah.
Syerleena claimed that Sanusi's statement has a criminal element and urged that he be investigated for sedition.
She said misogynistic behaviour will be increasingly normalised if chauvinistic leaders keep on making such remarks.
“The words he used were very abusive and inappropriate and should not be used by a leader, especially from a religious party like PAS.
“When chauvinistic leaders have power, their attitude will make misogyny acceptable."
“This will create a culture where discrimination, objectification and violence will perpetuate cycles of injustice hindering social progress,” she said.
Syerleena highlighted the importance of eliminating toxic narratives towards women to create a more inclusive society for everyone.
“Women must unite against misogyny by building solidarity among women, opt for change and inspire the next generation,” said Syerleena.
Meanwhile, Sungai Pinang state assemblyperson Lim Siew Khim also lodged a police report against Sanusi at the Timur Laut district police headquarters this evening.
Shameful
Speaking to reporters along with other Penang Pakatan Harapan members, Lim said she hoped that Sanusi will be investigated under Section 509 of the Penal Code.
“It is very inappropriate for a menteri besar to say a vulgar word in public… I am ashamed, honestly,” she said.
Section 509 stipulates that anyone who knowingly insults a woman's modesty through speech, sound, gesture, or display of an object is subject to a term of up to five years in prison, a fine, or both.