Politicians and members of civil society sing Maimunah's praises

GEORGE TOWN: Politicians and members of the civil society in Penang have expressed their delight at the appointment of Penang Island City Council (MBPP) Mayor Datuk Maimunah Sharif (pix) as the new United Nations Human Settlements Programme's (UN-Habitat) executive director.
Former MBPP councillor and Penang Forum member Dr. Lim Mah Hui said that the appointment is a sign of good things happening in the state, and puts Penang in a great light.
"I am happy for her, she has good experience and I hope when she comes back, she can make Penang and Malaysia better", he told theSun.
Lim also pointed out that with the new responsibility and without political interference she can make the world and Penang a lot better.
He also said he is confident she can do a good job in her new position in the United Nations.
Another Penang Forum member who is also an MBPP councillor Khoo Salma Nasution echoed Lim's sentiments, believing Maimunah will improve the urban agenda movement in Penang and Malaysia.
"Not to forget, it is also a recognition for a woman from Malaysia to be given such an honour and respectable position on the world stage," she said.
Politicians also sang their praises, with Penang Deputy Chief Minister 1 Datuk Rashid Hasnon opining Maimunah is the most qualified candidate to helm the position in UN as she has vast experience in town planning and urban agenda.
He said her work in the Penang state government, and at the Seberang Prai Municipal Council (MPSP) as its president for over six years – playing an instrumental role in the formation of the George Town World Heritage Incorporated – showed that Maimunah is a capable candidate for the position.
"It is an honour for her and a recognition for a woman in Penang and Malaysia," he said.
BN Teluk Bahang assemblyman Datuk Shah Headan Ayoob Shah Hussain the appointment is a recognition to women in Malaysia.
Shah Headan said it is also a good thing not just for Penang but Malaysia, especially on the world stage.
"I congratulated her for the appointment, with her experience she is capable of achieving greater things", he said.
BN Pulau Betong assemblyman Datuk Muhammad Farid Saad said the appointment is a recognition for Maimunah's excellent work while serving in Penang.
He said the appointment also gives Penang and Malaysia a good name and reputation.
Maimunah, 56, decided to accept the position as UN-Habitat executive director for a four-year term, after she was offered the position on Dec 15.
The Negri Sembilan-born town planner is also believed to be the first Malaysian to head a major UN programme, whose input will help formulate global perceptions of the human habitat and the environment.