WOMEN: THE PILLAR OF NATIONAL UNITY AND NATION-BUILDING MALAYSIA’S LEADERSHIP IN THE GLOBAL CONVERSATION

A nation’s progress and unity are deeply rooted in the strength, resilience, and contributions of its women. From nurturing families to driving economies, women play an indispensable role in nation-building, ensuring sustainable development and social harmony. No country can achieve lasting prosperity without fully embracing and empowering its women.

Malaysia, guided by its National Policy on Women and long-standing commitment to gender inclusivity, has recognised that women’s advancement is integral to national growth. As a multicultural and forward-looking nation, Malaysia is well-positioned to lead the global conversation on women’s empowerment – particularly within ASEAN and beyond. By championing policies that enhance women’s participation in governance, business, and community leadership, Malaysia can serve as a global exemplar – proving that when women thrive, societies flourish, economies prosper, and national unity is strengthened.

EMPOWERING WOMEN
A STRATEGIC IMPERATIVE FOR MALAYSIA’S FUTURE
Women are a vital pillar of nation-building, economic advancement, and social development. In Malaysia, women constitute 47.3% of the total population (16.2 million) (DOSM, 2024).

KEY STATISTICS SUPPORTING WE2025

Women in Education:
Women outperform men in higher education, with a Malaysia Gender Gap Index (MGGI) score of 1.071. Female graduates excel in critical fields such as science and mathematics.

Women in the Workforce:
The female labour force participation rate (LFPR) stands at 56.2%, with 83.2% of female graduates entering the workforce. However, 42% of women remain outside the labour force due to family responsibilities.

Women in Leadership & Business:
Women occupy just 25.4% of managerial roles, and female-led businesses make up 20.3% of registered enterprises (DOSM, 2024).

Empowering women is not just a matter of equity – it is a powerful economic strategy. According to the McKinsey Global Institute, closing the gender gap could contribute an additional USD 12 trillion to global GDP by 2025. In Malaysia, increasing female labour force participation from 56.2% to 63% could raise GDP by 5–7% (World Bank). Women-led enterprises, representing 20.3% of all businesses, are key drivers of innovation and job creation. Companies with higher gender diversity are also 25% more profitable than their peers (Deloitte, 2023).

Investing in women enhances workforce productivity, accelerates STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) and digital innovation, and reduces socioeconomic inequality – particularly as women reinvest up to 90% of their income into their families and communities (UN Women).