DAP chairperson Karpal Singh has lashed out at Pahang Menteri Besar Adnan Yaakob over the latter's statement that Malaysia was not ready for a woman premier.

"The Federal Constitution was amended to outlaw gender discrimination. Women have every right to strive towards the highest position in government," said the Bukit Gelugor MP.

Karpal said he was surprised that the menteri besar had chosen to make public "what is really beyond defence".

Be pragmatic

Pointing out that Malaysian Parliament has competent women MPs, he also cited examples in countries such as Germany, New Zealand, Bangladesh and others which are led by women.

"I hope the menteri besar will in future be pragmatic and think very carefully before making statements about women in the country," added Karpal.

Adnan has said the idea of appointing a woman premier was "unreasonable" when he was at a seminar attended by more than 1,000 women on Monday.

"I fully support the idea that men and women are equal, but those striving towards this must not ask for unreasonable things," Adnan said.