JOHOR BARU: Datuk Zuraida Kamaruddin's decision to quit Parti Pribumi Bersatu Malaysia (Bersatu) will not weaken the party’s Srikandi (women's wing) as there are more capable leaders that can replace her, says Datuk Seri Rina Mohd Harun.

       The Bersatu Srikandi chief said the party was well aware of Zuraida’s decision long before the announcement was even made.

       “We expected her decision even before she made the announcement to join Parti Bangsa Malaysia (PBM) and we respect that.

       “But in our view, her action did not cause any repercussions for us Srikandi, and this is normal in politics, where a leader comes and goes,” she said.

       She said this when met after visiting the Rumah Kanak Kanak Mini Ulu Tiram, here on Saturday (June 11).

       Rina added that Zuraida’s decision to leave was also followed by a small group of individuals who had followed her before she joined Bersatu.

       “The number is not big and we know who they are,” said Rina.

       On May 27, Zuraida quit Bersatu to join PBM.

       The Ampang MP said that after in-depth consideration, she decided on PBM as she believed in its struggles.

       "I am very attracted to its core principles of multiracial engagement, women's empowerment, youth empowerment, economic development, education, and the advancement of science and technology as elements to make Malaysia a developed country," she added.