The revelations regarding the private affairs of Selangor EXCO Elizabeth Wong and the ugly manner in which it has been hijacked by some parts of the media and political parties have raised many questions. For example:
- “Was it right for her to be shamed in this manner?”
- “Would it be different if this happened to a male politician?”
- “Should she resign?”
- “Are we being hypocritical for judging her?”
Beyond the immediate fallout of this episode on the personal lives of those involved and the political landscape in the state, the surrounding events are symptomatic of an underlying dysfunctionality in how our society deals with issues of gender and morality, especially when it involves someone in the public eye. Sadly, this deficiency in our mindset has allowed “gutter politics” to go on an unbridled rampage, to the shame of all Malaysians.
Whilst there has not been a shortage of expressions of outrage and disgust, there is an urgent need for a more considered response that brings together a wider range of perspectives. As we approach International Women’s Day, join us for a conversation on these issues, which brings together perspectives of faith, gender studies, human rights and morality.
HIDDEN CAMERAS:
The Politics of Gender and Public Morality
Date & Time
Saturday, 7th March 2009
2.30 pm – 4.30 pm
Venue
Bangsar Lutheran Church
23, Jalan Abdullah
off Jalan Bangsar
Kuala Lumpur
(location map)
Programme
2.30pm
Opening remarks by Rev. Sivin Kit of Bangsar Lutheran Church
2.40pm
Presentations by speakers:
Masjaliza Hamzah
Programme Manager, Sisters-In-Islam
Dr Sharon Bong
Senior Lecturer in Gender and
Creative Writing, Monash University
Andrew Khoo
Malaysian Bar Council Human Rights Committee
Irene Fernandez
Director, Tenaganita
3.40pm
Conversation between speakers and participants
4.20pm
Closing remarks by Fr. Jojo Fung of RoH Malaysia
4.30pm
Refreshments
Organisers
Friends in Conversation, RoH Malaysia, The Micah Mandate
This event is free-of-charge but registration is required. For registration and enquiries, please contact Yoon Yew Khuen (yewkhuen@gmail.com).
Download the PDF flyer here.
