A national gender responsive budget: Still a work in progress

MAIN For the national budget to be truly gender responsive, there needs to be regular analysis and evaluation of the money that is being rolled out and if it is reaching and benefitting the target groups. Without data collection and analysis, we will not learn or advance, say expers. Photos: 123rf.com

There is no denying that Budget 2024, themed “Economic reforms, empowering the people”, has a focus on advancing the lot of women and disenfranchised groups.

There are some examples of positive moves towards this end. Of the total RM2.4bil under small and micro entrepreneurs, RM720mil was allocated for business, entrepreneurship and tax incentives to increase women’s participation in the workforce.