International Women of Courage Awardee Ambiga Sreenevasan debuts on Forbes 50 Over 50 List

From skilled litigator to political activist, women’s rights advocate, and 2019 International Women of Courage (IWOC) awardee, Ambiga Sreenevasan is a champion for democracy and human rights in Malaysia. 

Now Ambiga can add the honor of being named one of Forbes 50 Over 50 in Malaysia to her belt. This annual list, which spotlights women across the Asia-Pacific who are reaching new heights in their industries, recently recognized Ambiga for her work as lawyer and human rights advocate. 

Born to a prominent Malaysian urologist, Ambiga began her law career in 1980, focusing on commercial and corporate litigation. She rose to prominence when, in 2007, she led a march of 2,000 lawyers calling for judicial reform.  

Ambiga has served as President of the Malaysian Bar Council, co-chairperson of Bersih, and member of the International Commission of Jurists, helping to advocate for local election and justice reform. For her work, she was named one of eight International Women of Courage (IWOC) awardees in 2019 and participated in the Department of State’s International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP). 

“Gender equality is a responsibility of all Malaysians,” Ambiga said, upon winning.  

Joining two Malaysian women among 50 women over the age of 50, Ambiga is inspiring the region’s next generation – proving success has no age limit.