CALLS to implement hybrid working arrangements for the benefit of female employees sparked intense debate at the Selangor women assembly (Siwanis) as representatives weighed socio-economic impacts on the state and families.
Introduced in 2023, Siwanis is an initiative by Wanita Berdaya Selangor, aimed at empowering female youths by providing them a platform to debate ideas and public policies.
Participants were assigned to represent all 56 state constituencies in Selangor, simulating an actual state assembly sitting.
Dr Puvaneswari Ramachandran (Hulu Kelang) said married women, especially those with children, often faced challenges balancing home and work.
“The current arrangement, which requires employees to be present at the workplace, is no longer suitable.
“Hybrid working arrangements are feasible as employees can use technology to access the companies’ systems,” she said.
Norzawani Mohamed Zakaria (Jeram) said many women were forced to forego career advancements to prioritise their families.
“The misperception that you are only doing your job if you are in the office needs to go.”
Suriani Sabandan (Sungai Panjang) said although women made up the majority at tertiary education institutions, they remained under-represented in the workforce.
“Many are held back by the responsibility to care for children,” she said, adding that transportation costs was a factor too.
Anis Zuryanee Mohamed (Seri Setia) said hybrid arrangements could burden female employees.
“They might be expected to keep up communication round the clock, bringing workplace problems to their homes.
“Some employers may also abuse this by requiring staff to work outside their working hours without extra pay.”
Jumalia Juhari (Pandan Indah) said any proposal to mandate hybrid working should be fine-tuned to ensure clarity.
“This may be feasible for administrative staff, but the same cannot be said for those in enforcement, health sector and customer service,” she said.
Siwanis representatives were selected through application and screening processes targeting female youth who demonstrated leadership potential and interest in public policy.
Ahead of the session, they underwent a series of workshops and training programmes to prepare them for the proceedings.
Selangor State Assembly Speaker Lau Weng San moderated the session.
Kuan Yen Hong (Tanjung Sepat) was named Best Delegate.
Speaking to the media after the closing ceremony, state women empowerment and welfare committee chairman Anfaal Saari said Selangor government was in the midst of studying the feasibility of flexible working arrangements.
At the session, representatives also deliberated on inclusive education at Quran and Fardu Ain (Kafa) schools and empowering the care economy.
Also present were Deputy Housing and Local Government Minister Datuk Aiman Athirah Sabu and former state public health, unity, women empowerment and family committee chairman Dr Siti Mariah Mahmud.
