Nurul Izzah Anwar

Nurul Izzah Anwar may be only 20, yet she has met and had discussions with world leaders Estrada, Habibie, Cory Aquino and Madeleine Albright. Ever since her father, former Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, has been imprisoned, Nurul has thrown herself into the political arena with a determination and courage rarely seen in someone her age.

Which woman do you admire the most?

Aung San Suu Kyi and my beloved mother (Dr Wan Azizah Wan Ismail). I admire them for their courage and quite strength.

Name a role model or some of the women who have inspired you.

I’ve been inspired by many women from all walks of life. Everyone has a painful story to tell and understanding how they manage to overcome the challenges in their lives motivates me to try and achieve that level of patience. Women who give their all in defending their principles and ideal simply amaze me.

Who are your favourite women authors, actress or musicians?

I love Jane Austen and whenever I feel a bit melodramatic, I read Jane Eyre. I thought Julianne Moore was quite impressive in Hannibal. And Macy Gray is kind of cool; she has cute voice.

What would you like to see in Malaysian women?

Malaysian women have a simple grace that makes them endearing yet strong. But there’s so much untapped potential.

What do you think you can do to improve the lives of Malaysian women?

Everyone has to make an effort. Politics is one of the available avenues, but there needs to be greater cooperation with the women NGOs.

What message or value would you impart to your daughter, sister or any young Malaysian women?

Always be confident in your ability to contribute. We always make a difference. We should find solace in Allah and be able to stand on our own two feet in times of trouble. Our duties as a wife are important, yes, but Islam also stress the need always to be fair to oneself.

What do you think women admire about you?

Goodness, I’m full of inadequacies and awkwardness, I think I’m the one who should learn and appreciate other women for their strength and admirable qualities.

If you had a choice, who would you rather be?

Life is such that sometimes there’s no choice. But I still aim to become an engineer.

What’s your secret for happiness?

Happiness is when you feel God is with you and you’re doing something good – working for something you believe in. prayers help very, very much.

What would you advise young Malaysian women?

Let us face on the onslaught of struggle with an open heart and keen mind. We matter and we should be at the forefront of any sort of positive change.

How do you manage your time so well?

One should take each day as it comes and just breathe slowly.