KUALA LUMPUR: Six out of 10 Malaysians believe young women today will enjoy a better life than their parents’ generation, reflecting a more optimistic outlook, according to a new survey by market research firm Ipsos.
The findings, released in conjunction with International Women’s Day 2026, show that 60% of Malaysians agree that young women are likely to have better prospects than their mothers’ generation, higher than the global average of 55%.
The survey, conducted among 500 Malaysian adults aged 18 to 74, suggests that improving living standards and expanding opportunities are shaping a more positive outlook for women in the country.
However, the study also found that traditional views about gender roles persist despite growing support for equality in the household.
Most Malaysians believe responsibilities such as childcare, housework and household decision-making should be shared equally between men and women, but earning money is still widely seen as primarily a male responsibility.
The survey further indicates that women are perceived as having greater freedom in personal expression, including how they dress and what they do for fun. In contrast, men are still viewed as having more choices in the types of jobs they can pursue.
Meanwhile, acceptance of women in leadership roles appears to be increasing.
Ipsos found that 56% of Malaysians believe things would work better if more women held leadership positions in government and companies, up from 53% in 2025, signalling growing public support for female participation in decision-making roles.
The findingsreflect a mix of progressive and traditional attitudes within Malaysian society.
The finding also noted that while Malaysians increasingly support shared responsibilities at home and greater female leadership, the persistence of the male breadwinner model highlights areas where further progress is needed.
The report also indicated that the rising of acceptance of women in leadership roles suggests a positive cultural shift in Malaysia, shaping new perceptions within government and business.
The Ipsos survey is part of its global research ahead of International Women’s Day, which highlights progress and ongoing challenges in gender equality worldwide.
The survey was conducted by Ipsos Public Affairs Malaysia, Country Lead Wan Nuradiah Wan Mohd Rani, Ipsos senior executives Peyser Hoong and Aida Azman.
