KUALA LUMPUR: A sustainable Asean cannot be realised without empowering women and embedding gender equality across every level of society, including in the digital and green economies, Cambodian National Assembly President Samdech Maha Rathsapheathika Thipadei Khuon Sudary said today.

Speaking at the 2nd WAIPA Women Political Leaders Forum, held in conjunction with the 46th Asean Inter-Parliamentary Assembly (AIPA) General Assembly here, Khuon Sudary said women's leadership was critical to ensuring that Asean remained resilient, inclusive and sustainable in the face of global challenges.

"We need holistic and inclusive solutions, and women are obviously part of the solution. Women's leadership does not destroy – however, women and girls around the world face multiple pressures and challenges rooted in inequality and discrimination.

"To realise a sustainable Asean we must empower women and promote gender equality at every level and across all sectors, including the digital economy and green economy," she said.