THE government is targeting 60% women in the workforce in various sectors by next year.

Deputy Rural and Regional Development Minister Rubiah Wang said the present employment rate of women in the country is 55%, which can be increased to 60% with government support and initiatives. 

She said this is in line with global development and revolution, which requires women’s contribution to the workplace, for the socio-economic development of a nation.

“The 2020 World Economic Forum report states that Malaysian women are very creative, able to communicate well and have impressive problem-solving skills.

“In the ministry itself, especially in the Community Development Department (Kemas), we have various development and entrepreneurship programmes to advance women, such as ‘Quick Win’,” she said.

Rubiah was speaking at a Madani gathering in conjunction with the 2023 “Sentuhan Kasih Desa Terengganu” programme in Bandar Al-Muktafi Billah Shah, Dungun today.

Also present were Kemas director-general Ahmad Kamal Idris Mohd Nawawi and Terengganu Kemas director Dr Faridah Mat.

Earlier, Rubiah participated in a morning exercise session with 5,000 women from around the district.

Rubiah said the government is also targeting a 30% women participation in professional fields in the future.

She believed the target is achievable in the near future with the opportunities, space and assistance provided by the government to women. – Bernama, July 28, 2023.