Vibeinar: M’sians ready to see women in power positions

KUALA LUMPUR – Is Malaysia truly ready to address gender inequality? Online comments on The Vibes’ webinar suggest that some are ready for change.

The “Vibeinar” titled “Are Malaysian Women Truly Empowered?” discussed, among others issues, women in economics and politics, taking stock of the lottery of birth and whether the gig economy is a boon or bane for women.

The line-up of panellists included Permatang Pauh MP Nurul Izzah Anwar, Senator Datuk Ras Adiba Mohd Radzi, Refuge for Refugees founder and executive director Heidy Quah, and Human Resources Development Fund chief operations officer Datuk Ariff Farhan Doss.

It was moderated by The Vibes’ Culture and Lifestyle editor and radio personality Shazmin Shamsuddin.

When it comes to having more women in positions of power, the panellists feel that challenges differ depending on cultural background and economic class.

“Women should be given more top posts, such as chief minister, and GLC (government-linked company) heads,” James Bon commented.

In reply, Shamshir Hassan said: “Provided they can actually do their jobs to the best of their abilities. Otherwise, this won’t be any different than race-based quota.”

Without boundaries

During the Vibeinar, the panellists pointed out that there are challenges in trying to place women issues front and centre, especially in Parliament.

A commenter stated that if these issues are tackled, one can only imagine how high women can soar.

“Women are able to multitask. Given the opportunity, without boundaries, would make them great,” Puvaneswary Kandasamy said.

A viewer also raised a concern that women have always been at risk of serving in informal sectors with no social safety net.

“Women are among the most vulnerable in times of crisis. This isn’t something that has just emerged with the gig economy.

“Many women have long been engaged in the informal sector with no social safety net.

“With the pandemic, it is clear that women are the majority of caregivers, too – as frontliners and carers for the sick and elderly at home,” said Pauline Fan.

The 90-minute Vibeinar garnered more than 19,000 viewers at press time via various social media channels. It was held ahead of the International Women’s Day tomorrow. – The Vibes, March 7, 2021