Dato’ Hatijah Ayob

2003 – 6 Dec 2016

My involvement in tobacco control dated back in 19??, i.e. when I was serving as the executive secretary for the National Heart Foundation. I then became closely acquainted with Dr Zarihah Zain, who pioneered the Ministry of Health’s Cancer and Tobacco Control Unit since 1993. Our passion to combat the tobacco menace got us on frequent discussions concerning the matter. We both agreed on the need to establish an NGO that addresses issues of women and family in the context of preserving health, specifically focusing on reduction or elimination of tobacco use within the society. This became the basis for the inception of MyWATCH – the Malaysian Women’s Action for Tobacco Control & Health, in 19??

Although the prevalence of tobacco use (smoking) amongst women in Malaysia was still very low then but based on situations of consumerism and female emancipation worldwide, we anticipated that the tobacco industry will soon embark on aggressive promotion actions to tap on the huge female market. We understand the best time for prevention is always before the problem gets out of hand. Women must be adequately informed about the dangers of tobacco (& tobacco products) and should be empowered to take on the right approach to protect themselves and their family members. 

Besides concern about women and girls being tobacco industry targets, MyWATCH’s objective is also to capitalise on the role of women as guardian, protector and partner in the household that help determine the best interest for the whole family unit.

I sincerely hope that MyWATCH will remain steadfast in this path of achieving it goals and will continue to stay relevant. 

Pn Roslizawati Md Ali.

6 Dec 2016 – current

I thank Allah SWT for His blessings and the opportunity He has given Pertubuhan Wanita Malaysia untuk Kawalan Tembakau dan Kesihatan or Malaysian Women’s Action on Tobacco Control & Health (MyWatch) in undertaking the role with a mission to advocate for the strengthening of tobacco control policies as well as other health policies in Malaysia.

Our main priority area is tobacco control. Through various initiatives, MyWatch has effectively mobilized a number of NGOs and other organizations to participate and create awareness of the dangers of tobacco which has led to the advocating for stronger governmental policies and more effective tobacco control strategies.

As President of MyWatch, I am deeply honored and would like to congratulate everyone in the collaboration of this tireless mission.

Wassalam