ARMANI FIRST WOMAN APPOINTED SENATE DEPUTY SPEAKER

KUALA LUMPUR, July 9 (Bernama) -- Armani Mahiruddin, 52, who was Thursday
appointed Deputy Speaker of the Senate becomes the first woman to fill the
important post in Malaysia.

The Exco member of the Women's Wing of the United Malays National
Organisation (Umno) took her oath as the 11th Deputy Speaker before Senate
Speaker Senator Wong Foon Meng.

Her appointment was on the recommendation of Prime Minister Najib Razak.
Armani has been Senate member since Dec 9, 2005.

The motion was moved by Minister in the Prime Minister's Department Dr Koh
Tsu Koon soon as the senate convened.

It was supported by Minister in the Prime Minister's Department Senator
Maj-Gen (Rtd) Jamil Khir Baharom.

The former teacher of 17 years who quit in 1995 to serve Umno fulltime told
reporters in parliament that she was touched by her appointment to such an
important post.

Armani who learnt of her appointment at 3pm Wednesday said her appointment
to the high post was a recognition for women and historical as it was a first
for a woman.

"Thanks to god. Just my good luck that the Malaysian parliament celebrates
its Golden Jubilee (50th) this year," she added.

Armani, the sister of former Lower House of Parliament Deputy Speaker Juhar
Mahiruddin admitted it was a big job and that she would learn from her brother.

"It is a big responsibility. My brother is happy for me and has given be
some advice," she added.

Meanwhile, Women, Family and Community Development Minister Shahrizat Abdul
Jalil said Armani's appointment was proof that the ruling Barisan Nasional
government was committed to promoting women in politics.

Shahrizat said it was timely and in line with its policy to have at least 30
percent women in decision making posts.

"I am confident that Senator Armani has the ability and experience to serve
with dedication and excellence," she said in a statement.
-- BERNAMA