PUTRAJAYA: Women in Malaysia must continue to voice concerns about wage disparity in the workforce, says Datuk Seri Nancy Shukri.
The Women, Family and Community Development Minister referenced the Department of Statistics Malaysia’s 2023 report, which highlights the persistent gender wage gap.
The report revealed that female graduates earn approximately RM900 less than their male counterparts, despite holding similar academic qualifications.
"We must voice this out. As a member of the cabinet, I need to raise this as an issue. There should not be a wage gap," she said at a press conference during the launch of the International Women’s Day 2025 logo and theme on Wednesday (Jan 22).
Nancy noted that women often face unique challenges, such as balancing work with caregiving responsibilities for children and elderly family members, and should not be discriminated against or undervalued.
"They should not be looked down upon, especially in terms of their income, which should be equal, especially if their qualifications are the same as men’s. So, what’s the difference, right?" she added.
When asked about plans to mitigate this disparity, Nancy acknowledged existing legal provisions against discrimination but admitted that more needs to be done, adding that she will review current policies.
"I will examine this first because it’s not really directly under my ministry. So, God willing, I will study it, we will look into it so that we can use the statistics as material to make news."
Earlier in her speech, Nancy stressed the importance of ensuring Malaysian women have equal access and are free from any form of gender discrimination.
"Women not only play an important role in the family, but they also lead in the development of society and the country. Women are the backbone of progress in the economy, social, and politics."
She also acknowledged the global efforts of women striving to create more just, equitable, and progressive structures.
While progress has been made, Nancy highlighted the ongoing challenges in achieving gender equality that require attention.
International Women’s Day is observed globally on March 8, and this year’s theme, set by the United Nations, is ‘For All Women and Girls: Rights. Equality. Empowerment’.
According to Nancy, the ministry has chosen ‘Wanita Beraspirasi Membina Legasi’ as this year’s Women’s Day theme.
In Malaysia, Nancy said celebrations will be held in stages throughout February across five regions: Sarawak (Feb 11), Terengganu (Feb 20), Johor (Feb 24), Negri Sembilan (Feb 25), and the date for the celebration in Perak will be announced later.