July 04, 2021
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White flags could be seen flying outside homes and poverty relief organisations across Malaysia this past week as citizens cried out for food and other assistance amid the country s latest Covid-19 lockdown.
The surreal scenes, reminiscent of similar protests that swept the South American nations of Guatemala and El Salvador last year, emerged from a grass-roots social media campaign centred on the #benderaputih (white flag) hashtag that began trending on Monday.
Community organisers told This Week in Asia the campaign was the clearest sign yet of the economic despair that hundreds of thousands of Malaysia s lower-income families have experienced amid the haphazard approach of Prime Minister Muhyiddin Yassin s government to the public health crisis.
Jean hopes to level the playing field for youth so that they don’t get discouraged in speaking up on issues that concern them. Photos: JEAN VANEISHA RAVINDRAN
Today is International Women s Day, a day where the world unites to celebrate the achievements of women while pushing for greater equality, highlighting gaps in policy that continue to isolate women and keep them from enjoying equality at home, in the workplace and in society. StarLifestyle is highlighting the stories of young women who are stepping up and taking action for causes they believe in to make Malaysia a better and safe place for everyone