DAMMAM — A group of Saudi businesswomen agreed the death of Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Abdullah has dealt a hard blow to all women, Al-Madinah reported.
During his reign, women had made unprecedented achievements, the most important of which was full membership of the Shoura Council and becoming active members who play a role in the decision-making process.
Women entered the private and public sector workforces and were able to work in different jobs and achieve many of their ambitions and dreams because of King Abdullah's policies.
Businesswomen are confident Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman will adopt the same policy toward women and continue the journey of reforms. They are certain they will continue moving forward under the current King.
Women won't be marginalized
King Abdullah was a staunch supporter of women and had played a major role in enhancing women's social status, said Omaima Azouz, chairwoman of the design and fashion committee at the Jeddah Chamber of Commerce and Industry. Because of him, women are no longer marginalized; they are the center of attention for the government.
She said: “Women have accomplished so many things and won leading positions that were dominated by men.
“He opened the doors for us to work as saleswoman, engineers, reporters, security guards, fashion designers and more.
“He had removed all insurmountable obstacles facing women and paved the way for them to go out and earn their own living without relying on anyone.”
She still remembers vividly King Abdullah's famous words: “Allah knows you are all in my heart.
“My source of strength is Allah and you. “Always include me in your prayer.”
Global achievements
Olfat Qabani, deputy chairwoman of the industrial committee, Jeddah Chamber of Commerce and Industry, said women had played a bigger role in the development of the country and national economy during King Abdullah's reign.
She said Saudi women have set an example for other women in the Muslim and Arab countries.
Since King Abdullah took over, he had made many decisions and launched numerous initiatives to make women major partners in development programs. King Abdullah once said to the foreign media: “Saudi women have proven over the years they possess professional capabilities similar to those of their counterparts in other parts of the world.
“We are keen to enhance this role and create an environment conducive to women, an environment that stimulates Saudi women and allows them to work without violating the Shariah rules and social traditions.”
Qabani said she is sure women will continue to move ahead during the reign of King Salman, who is known for his balanced approach.
Leading positions
Mona Rehan, deputy chairwoman of the JCCI's fashion decision committee, talked about the leading positions women held in the era of King Abdullah.
Many women had won global awards and appreciation certificates as well as medals in recognition of their accomplishments in various scientific and non-scientific fields. “There is no doubt that the era of King Abdullah had witnessed great achievements by women on so many levels,” she said.
Successful stories
Amal Anqawi, businesswoman, said during the reign of King Abdullah the number of female members of the Shoura Council who worked on a part-time basis increased from six to 12. The first batch of female lawyers graduated from King Saud University.
The government introduced numerous regulations supporting women socially and the Ministry of Labor set up a training center for young women who wanted to join the private sector.
The Ministry of Commerce and Industry facilitated the procedures for women who wanted to start their own businesses.
