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​Source: MCYS

Photo: MCYS

Jeddah, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, 23 Rabiulakhir 1445 / 7 November 2023 – Yang Mulia Dayang Hajah Nor Ashikin binti Haji Johari, Permanent Secretary (Community), Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports attended the “International Conference on Women in Islam: “Status and Empowerment”, in Jeddah, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia from 6 to 8 November 2023. The conference was held for the first time and jointly chaired and organized by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and The Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC). The conference was attended by female heads of state, ministers, and representatives from various international and regional organizations involved in women's affairs including scholars and researchers from different countries around the world. 

With the theme of "Status and Empowerment", the conference, amongst others, was held to highlight the successes and contribution of Muslim women from the birth of Islam to the present, and emphasize that Islamic teachings and values have protected and empowered women. The conference also explored several themes and areas including challenges and opportunities for Muslim women in contemporary society; as well as the empowerment of Muslim women in the field of education and employment. 

Amongst others, Yang Mulia Dayang Hajah Nor Ashikin Binti Haji Johari, shared that recent events have underscored the importance of the unity of the Ummah, and prioritizing collective action in promoting shared interests and values on the global stage. Therefore, Brunei Darussalam welcomed the convening of the International Conference, to highlight the greatness of Islam in elevating the status of women, and to address misconceptions that Islamic teachings and values deprive women of their rights in society. Hajah Nor Ashikin reiterated the vital role of women and girls in the advancement of Brunei Darussalam, in line with the principles of Maqasid Syariah, and noted the high representation of women in policy and decision-making, both in the public and private sector. She also shared Brunei Darussalam’s continued commitment to advance women further, whereby the recent completion of the Research Study on Women’s Development will aid in the formulation of a new national Plan of Action on Women. Also present at the Conference were senior officials from the Ministry of Religious Affairs and Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports.