Last year, when Selangor announced the 2026 state budget, it stated that the “Skim MamaKerja” childcare subsidy programme for working mothers would be reintroduced in 2026, alongside initiatives to support women in artificial intelligence (AI) and digital entrepreneurship.
However, until today, no application dates, mechanisms or implementation details have been announced, leaving many eligible women and families waiting in uncertainty.
Many working mothers are currently facing immense pressure from rising childcare costs, increasing household expenses and the dual burden of work and family responsibilities.
At the same time, with the rapid growth of AI, women are also in urgent need of digital and technological skills to strengthen their competitiveness and improve income opportunities.
Since these initiatives were already announced by the state government, they should not remain merely at the level of budget speeches and press statements.
Full application and implementation details must be released as soon as possible so that women who genuinely need assistance can benefit without further delay.
Among the matters that have yet to be officially announced are the application opening dates, full application procedures, updates to the official website, AI course registration details and the actual implementation timeline.
Many young families, working mothers and the lower and middle income households are in urgent need of such practical support.
While the RM100 childcare subsidy might not appear substantial, it could still help many families cover childcare transportation costs, baby formula expenses or ease part of their monthly financial burden.
Modern women continue to face immense pressure in balancing multiple responsibilities.
Beyond earning a living, many are also expected to care for children or elderly family members and manage household responsibilities, often with little personal time or support.
True women empowerment should not remain merely a slogan but must be reflected through policies that genuinely help women manage real-life challenges and better balance career, family and social participation.
A further issue that must be raised is whether the implementation of these programmes has been seriously pursued within the state government.
Those who have long championed women’s rights and empowerment should not remain silent on policies that directly affect the people.
Responsible leaders should be willing to push for faster implementation and ensure applications are opened without unnecessary delay.
Since the state government has already made these promises, it should demonstrate efficiency in execution rather than making the people wait indefinitely.
The AI era has already arrived and women must not be left behind.
The government should proactively help women acquire digital and technological skills to strengthen their capabilities, reduce financial stress and improve their quality of life, not leave them in an endless loop of waiting.
TEE HOOI LING
Wanita MCA National Deputy Chairman
