MUSCAT: Datin Seri Rosmah Mansor said she is not distracted by negative comments levelled against her over her visits abroad.
The wife of Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak said all her visits were conducted after she had been invited by the governments or lady ministers of the countries involved.
Speaking to Malaysian media at the end of her four-day visit to Oman Wednesday, Rosmah said such visits would also take place when she was required to deliver a keynote address at certain events.
“So, let them say whatever they want to say, but I feel that this visit is very beneficial not only to us but to all Malaysians regardless of race, religion or even what party they belong to,” she said, alluding to the visit to Oman in particular.
“I’m not here to represent certain sections of the people but we’re here to represent Malaysians,” Rosmah said, noting that she and members of her delegation had been well received here and that the Ruler of Oman, Sultan Qaboos Bin Said, himself had taken interest in the visit.
The prime minister’s wife was joined on the trip by several members of the Association of Wives of Ministers and Deputy Ministers (Bakti).
She was in the sultanate as a guest of the government of Oman, the first Malaysian dignitary in 20 years to have been accorded that privilege.
Rosmah also commented on her recent trip to Saudi Arabia where she addressed an international conference on total quality management in education.
“I was informed in Riyadh that I hadn’t been invited just because I’m the wife of a prime minister. They had apparently done their homework to see what I’ve contributed to children’s education, especially those below four years old as well as gifted children.”
“And I’m very happy that even in Saudi Arabia, they’ve now recognised the fact that it’s very important to give attention to early childhood education and care; and also gifted children,” she said.
To her detractors, Rosmah said: “To me, if they want to complain, I’ve got no issues, let it be.
“I’m only doing this as a leader’s wife. It’s my duty and responsibility to help any way I can, especially with regards to women’s empowerment and children’s issues.”
She added: “I’m not involved in politics, I’m not involved with the policies of the government; that’s being taken care of by the cabinet, the prime minister and deputy prime minister.
“We’re only putting in our effort and time and interest in children and the less privileged, so what’s the problem.” — Bernama