Make initiatives last, say women’s groups

PETALING JAYA: There must be effective implementation to ensure the longevity of any initiative to encourage the participation of women in the workforce, say women’s groups.

All Women’s Action Society (Awam) information and communications officer Amanda Shweeta Louis said there must be engagement with civil society and relevant groups to help women keep on working or return to the job market.

“It is great to see the government acknowledging the importance of daycare programmes in re-platforming mothers who took a hiatus from work to care for their children, as a method to close the gender gap in the labour force,” she said when contacted.

Awam also called for a safe working environment for women that is free of all forms of harassment and discrimination.

“Women must have equal and unrestricted access to promotion opportunities, breaking through any remaining glass ceilings,” Louis said.

Noting that a high number of women are involved in low-wage jobs with limited career security and benefits, she said she hopes the government would help to improve the quality of jobs.

A member of Lean in Malaysia, a women-led non-profit organisation, suggested that additional support be given to single career women who are also caregivers for elderly or sick relatives.

She said providing specific perks or assistance tailored to women’s unique challenges, in addition to current initiatives for working mothers, would create a more inclusive and supportive environment.

She said it was important to have plans that cover various aspects to make it easier for women to balance between their responsibilities and work commitments.