PUTRAJAYA: The women's wing of Parti Pribumi Bersatu Malaysia (Bersatu) must waste no time in gearing up for the next general election, said its chief Datuk Seri Rina Mohd Harun.
She also said the wing, Srikandi, must do everything in its power to help the ruling Pakatan Harapan win a fresh mandate in the 15th General Election.
Srikandi, she said, could not afford to rest on its laurels, and that it was incumbent upon its members to go down to the ground and feel the pulse of the people.
"I hope Srikandi grabs the opportunity to increase the involvement of women at the grassroots level.
"We will also hold skills and management courses in the first quarter of next year to help Srikandi strengthen its management and administration at the divisional level."
Rina said this in her winding-up speech during Srikandi's inaugural annual general assembly at the Putrajaya International Convention Centre here today (Dec 29).
Rina, who is also rural development minister, said the Pakatan Harapan administration discovered various leakages after taking over the government.
She also said the new government had to operate with limited sources of income.
"Despite these challenges, we have to fulfil the people's wish and show them that change can take place.
"(But), we have to go down to the ground and listen to the people at the grassroots level."
Rina said the party leadership believed that the grassroots must be empowered to ensure Bersatu remained relevant and at the forefront.
"The divisions must work hand in hand, cooperate and work in tandem with the party. This cannot be a one-man show," she added.
Every Srikandi member, she said, must transform herself into an agent of change who understood the country's new direction.
"Bersatu must support the country's development agenda not only to govern for the next five years but also to leave behind a lasting legacy.
"Therefore, we cannot be neglectful or be too comfortable. We must prepare and strengthen the party.
"Don't stand around and do nothing. Instead, renew your dedication and prove that Bersatu is a party of integrity, progress and high fighting spirit."