KUALA LUMPUR: Young women should break free of the limitations placed on them by society, said Hannah Yeoh.

The Deputy Women, Family and Community Development Minister said she did just that when she became a national politician despite being unable to speak Mandarin.

"As a Malaysian Chinese in politics, I was expected to know Mandarin.However as I did not speak the language, critics told me that I would never become a national politician and would only be confined to an area like Subang Jaya where everyone spoke English," she said.

The Segambut MP and former Subang Jaya assemblyman was speaking at the #dreamBIG event organised by Women's Aid Organisation (WAO) and The Body Shop Malaysia in celebration of the International Day of the Girl on Saturday (Oct 12).

The event aims to highlight the needs and challenges that girls face while also promoting girls' empowerment.

"I have been able to smash that limitation and today despite not knowing Mandarin, I can travel nationwide to address people," she said.

More than 25 girls from different backgrounds also presented their dreams at the event.

The DAP Wanita vice national chairwoman said that when she joined politics, critics had put her down for being young and inexperienced.

She added that she was being vilified because she had children, as critics claimed that it would limit her career as a politician.

Hence, Yeoh encouraged young girls to break those limitations people have placed on them and to seek those who would choose to celebrate their strengths.

"Wherever you are and whatever stage of life you are in, there will always be limitations. Don't let that cripple you," she said.

Meanwhile, WAO president Yee Pek Mei said a supportive environment is critical for young girls to thrive and achieve their dreams.

"All of us have a responsibility to help create this environment. Girls need parents, educators, and mentors, who affirm and nurture their potential.

"Girls need role models in various sectors, especially in those which are traditionally male-dominated. Such role models expand girls' imagination of what's possible," she said.