SEREMBAN: The Women, Family and Community Development Ministry remains committed to advancing women’s empowerment in line with the Federal Constitution, says its Deputy Minister Datuk Seri Noraini Ahmad.
She said gender equality is a widely discussed issue, emphasising the importance of providing equal rights and opportunities to all individuals, without discrimination.
She highlighted Malaysia’s commitment to gender equality, through its ratification of the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (Cedaw), with certain exceptions to align with the Constitution and Islamic law.
“Gender equality does not mean that women will take over the rights and opportunities of men, but rather that both genders can share opportunities fairly, free from discrimination.
“This partnership benefits the nation by maximising the potential of its human resources,” she said at the Central Zone-level International Women’s Day celebration in Senawang yesterday.
Noraini emphasised that women are the backbone of families, communities and the nation, playing a vital role in shaping the future. However, she noted that many face significant challenges in various aspects of life, whether in the workplace, at home, or society at large.
“We continue to see disparities in wages, a lack of female representation in leadership roles and ongoing challenges related to violence and discrimination,” she said.
“Women possess extraordinary capabilities, whether as leaders, homemakers, or professionals, seamlessly balancing multiple roles without compromising their strength and abilities,” she added.
Noraini also highlighted the significant contributions of women across various sectors, including policymaking, education, corporate leadership, manufacturing, and entrepreneurship – key drivers of the nation’s economic growth.
