Women leadership agenda on the cards
PETALING JAYA: The Women, Family and Community Development Ministry is establishing a leadership initiative for women to boost their competitiveness in the public and corporate sectors.
Its minister, Datuk Seri Dr Wan Azizah Wan Ismail, said through the initiative, women would be given training, motivation and leadership skills to helm the highest management positions.
Dr Wan Azizah, who is the deputy prime minister, said the move was in line with the government’s target to encourage 30 per cent participation of women in decision-making positions.
“The government is committed to mobilising a development and empowerment agenda for women so that they can contribute to the economy and improve their quality of life.
“Women have been entrusted with positions at the decisionmaking level, such as minister, deputy minister, member of parliament, judge, director-general and other top positions, which were monopolised by men.
“However, I would like to emphasise that the post (top management) must be based on merit and not quota,” she said at the launch of Tenaga Nasional Bhd (TNB) Pelitawanis Conference 2018 here yesterday.
Present were TNB president and chief executive officer Datuk Seri Azman Mohd, TNB board of directors member Gee Siew Yoong and Pelitawanis president Datin Seri Noor Afizah Ahmad Noor.
Dr Wan Azizah said those who wanted to work from home could become entrepreneurs.
“There are many opportunities and facilities available, such as financing, training, mentoring and business premises.
“It is hoped that more women will become entrepreneurs.”
She said women’s participation in business would make them one of the sources that contribute to the country’s gross domestic product, a measurement of a country’s economic growth.
“Women’s participation in entrepreneurship can highlight their capabilities.”
Dr Wan Azizah said the conference would encourage women to become entrepreneurs.
“Through this knowledge-sharing session, it will allow participants to learn about and venture into entrepreneurship.
“Entrepreneurship will not only strengthen the family economy, but also boost women’s self-esteem.”