The International Women's Day theme this year #BeBoldforChange would have resonated with Kathleen Brooke, Her Highness Ranee Muda of Sarawak 1907-1981.
70 years ago, Ranee Muda Kathleen supported her husband Anthony in his opposition to the ensuing annexation of Sarawak by the British Crown. When Anthony was refused re-entry into Sarawak by the British authorities, it was decided in 1947 that Kathleen should go in his place to rally the anti-cessionists. She took the heart-wrenching decision to leave behind her 3 young children to go to Sarawak in support of the people's right to determine their own future and in doing so, came into her own. The inspiring Ranee Muda was an example to many women in Sarawak and gave vital energy to the Kaum Ibu, the Women’s Movement, and the beginnings of Sarawak women’s political engagement.
