PETALING JAYA: The continued under-representation of women in politics in the country, especially in leadership positions, means that women are often left out of major decisions that affect them, say Malaysian women.
“It is a clear signal of Malaysia’s lack of commitment to gender equality and also, the lack of political will to make equality a reality,” said Dr Lai Suat Yan, senior lecturer and coordinator of Universiti Malaya’s Master of Gender Studies programme.
“The commitment seems to be lip service only,” she added.
Increasing women’s representation in politics will not just fulfil Malaysia’s commitment in ratifying the UN Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW), which Malaysia acceded to in 1995, but also signify political will for gender equality.
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“It will send the message to everyday Malaysians that women have leadership capabilities – contrary to the stereotypes – and are fit to run the country,” said Lai.
“These female parliamentarians can also be role models to young women.”
In the Global Gender Gap Index 2023, Malaysia was ranked at 102 out of 146 countries (up one place) in the world with a score of 0.682.
Women’s achievement in the Educational Attainment sub-index was good: they are on par with men (with a score of 1 compared to 0.995 in 2022 – a score of 1 means equality has been attained).
However, women’s political empowerment recorded the lowest score – 0.098 (a drop from 0.102 in 2022), showing not only that women are seriously lagging behind in the political arena, but that the situation is getting worse.
PAS MP for Tumpat, Kelantan, Datuk Mumtaz Md Nawi, said the participation of women in political leadership is a must “because 50% of our electorate are women”.
“We must represent the entire population, not just half. The needs of men and women are different and so, we need women leaders who voice the concerns of women so that our specific needs are not undermined.
“Issues like period (poverty) and reproductive health are important issues that men will not be able to fight for women adequately. There’s also the discrimination against women in the workplace,” she said.
Lai added: “Policies that affect the family, children and women will be prioritised and hopefully, the need for childcare – a long standing issue – will be addressed. Many women drop out of the workforce and cannot work outside to bring home an income due to the lack of childcare.
“The more diverse the leadership, the better it is as they will bring their diverse experiences, insights and innovations to address issues of concern to everyday Malaysians.”
Anis Ismail, the co-lead of Parliwomen (a youth-led initiative to increase political literacy among girls), says that having more women in political leadership will serve as role models to young women and girls.
“For girls, it is so important to see themselves represented. Visibility is important; when you see someone who looks like you up there, you will be interested and curious to find out more about politics and policymaking and learn how it affects you,” she said.
Closing the gender gap requires political will and buy-in from male politicians and citizens too.
“Political parties must adopt a policy of 30% of female leadership, not only at the state level but also national level. These female leaders are to be given the opportunity to be candidates in safe seats, as opposed to unsafe ones, or running against other female politicians, as this will be a zero sum game and not lead to an increase in female parliamentarians,” said Lai.
The role of party members is also important in supporting the cause for better representation of women in political parties, she added.
Civil society groups, too, can campaign for this cause.
“After all, they have persistently and successfully advocated for issues in the past, such as the Anti-Sexual Harassment Act. Youth leaders and youths can be game changers as well,” she said.
Siti Aisyah Adly from Parliwomen pointed out that the support of men was also important to increase the number of women in politics.
“Male allies are important in supporting women’s leadership aspirations by challenging gender stereotypes, amplifying women’s voices, advocating for inclusive policies and fostering a culture of respect and equality within political institutions.
“By working together, we can create lasting change and build a more inclusive society for all,” Siti Aisyah said.
