KUALA LUMPUR: Deputy Communications Minister Teo Nie Ching emphasized the importance of increasing women’s participation in the labor force, especially in the digital economy industry in Malaysia. Despite women making up 55.1% of the workforce in 2022, they only accounted for 35% of the digital economy industry.
Teo addressed reporters after the International Women’s Day celebration, highlighting the need to challenge gender stereotypes. She pointed out the disproportionate gender representation in certain professions and highlighted the importance of encouraging women to pursue careers in male-dominated fields like engineering, and vice versa.
She expressed her belief that breaking these gender stereotypes would lead to more balanced participation across all fields, resulting in better decision-making processes for the government. In her address at the event, Teo shared statistics from the National Information Dissemination Centre, revealing that 76% of entrepreneurs mentored by the center were female between 2021 and February 2024.
Additionally, statistics from the Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation showed that 57% of female entrepreneurs had participated in the eUsahawan Programme from 2015 to 2023. Women were actively involved in sectors like food and beverage, beauty and health, and fashion, indicating their growing contribution to the economy as small-scale entrepreneurs.
In line with International Women’s Day, Teo called for a reevaluation of the need for inclusivity, the challenging of stereotypes, and the dismantling of discriminatory practices. She highlighted the importance of creating a more diverse and inclusive workforce to drive economic growth and decision-making processes in the country.
Teo’s remarks underscored the significance of empowering women in the digital economy industry and promoting equal opportunities for all genders. By addressing gender biases and encouraging women to enter traditionally male-dominated fields, Malaysia can achieve greater gender balance and diversity in the workforce, leading to more innovative solutions and inclusive policies.
She reiterated the government’s commitment to promoting gender equality and women’s empowerment, recognizing the crucial role women play in driving economic growth and fostering a more inclusive society. By providing support and opportunities for women in the digital economy sector, Malaysia can harness the full potential of its workforce and accelerate its development in the digital age.
Teo’s call for action on International Women’s Day serves as a reminder of the ongoing challenges and opportunities for women in the workforce. By promoting gender diversity and inclusivity, Malaysia can create a more equitable and prosperous society for all its citizens, paving the way for sustainable growth and development in the digital economy.
Through targeted initiatives and policies that support women’s participation in the labor force and the digital economy, Malaysia can unlock new opportunities for economic advancement and social progress. By embracing diversity and equality, the country can build a more resilient and competitive workforce that reflects the full potential and talents of all its citizens.
