KUALA LUMPUR: Women aged 65 and above receive 26% less retirement income compared to men, says World Economic Forum longevity economy lead Haleh Nazeri.
She explained that women face a "triple storm" as they tend to live longer, have lower savings, and are more likely to take time off work to be caregivers.
“When it comes to the longevity economy, women have to face triple threats because we live longer, make less money, and have less savings and retirement funds.
"But we are also the main caregivers, so we leave the workforce, resulting in less income. This is a critical issue," she said at the International Social Wellbeing Conference 2025, "Living to a Hundred: Are We Prepared?" on Tuesday (June 17).
She added that companies should consider caregiving facilities as part of employee benefits for both children and older adults.
Moving forward, she noted that many employees want this as they live longer and face certain difficulties.
Asked about corporate companies rehiring women, Haleh said companies should not discount anyone because of age and should focus on the applicant.
“I think everyone who wants to work must be given an opportunity, especially caregivers who have left the workforce. They should be given the benefit of the doubt for gaps in their resume.
“When you have that gap, many people think it is bad, but actually they have taken time off to care for their families. So, give these women the chance and you will see how resilient and enthusiastic they are coming back to work,” she said.
Earlier, Haleh presented a talk on "The Longevity Economy: Lessons and Opportunities in Living Longer," discussing changing the narrative for the 21st century.
She said the only way to think about longevity is through an intergenerational lens, considering what we can achieve together.
Additionally, she said ageing is not a burden but an advantage, like a new demographic advancement that could drive future growth.
