KUALA LUMPUR: Institut Masa Depan Malaysia (Masa) has urged the government to intensify its efforts and initiatives to enhance the socioeconomic status of women in the country.
In conjunction with International Women's Day today, Masa said it advocated for the implementation of equitable and strategic policies that could foster and enhance female participation and leadership in the private and public sectors.
"As part of our collective endeavours, Malaysia has set ambitious targets to eradicate all forms of injustice in the labour market, thereby advancing economic outcomes for women.
"Masa emphasises the importance of proactive and continuous measures to harness the immense potential of women in driving prosperity within our nation, communities, families and households," it said in a statement today.
The independent think tank said the role and contribution of women was indispensable in addressing various challenges and steering economic recovery, reform and transformation.
"Studies reveal that although women constitute half of the world's population, they contribute only 37 per cent to the global gross domestic product.
"Recognising the significant worth of women's unpaid work, valued at US$10.9 trillion (RM51.13 trillion) to the world economy, underscores the imperative of investing in women's literacy, capacity building and entrepreneurship."
Masa further said it advocated for gender equity and empowerment, acknowledging that women's knowledge and decision-making prowess were crucial for society's progress.
It also recognised that the concept of women's empowerment went beyond Western feminism, encompassing the ability to challenge and reshape societal norms, practices and laws that constrain women's agency and choices.
"As we commemorate International Women's Day 2024, Masa reaffirms its steadfast commitment to advancing gender equity, empowering women and fostering shared prosperity for all," it added.
