THE Securities Commission Malaysia (SC) has officially launched investED for Returning Women, a training and re-entry initiative aimed at helping women return to the capital market workforce after a career break.
The programme was inaugurated by Deputy Finance Minister Lim Hui Ying at the SC headquarters.
First announced in October, investED for Returning Women has already attracted over 600 applications from women in their mid-30s to late 40s, many of whom previously worked in oil & gas, banking, finance, and insurance.
Most cited family and caregiving responsibilities as reasons for their career hiatus.
The programme is structured in two phases: REFRESH, which focuses on professional and personal readiness through confidence-building, career clinics, personalised guidance, and networking; and RESKILL, which equips participants with updated technical knowledge and practical industry skills, supported by structured training, industry exposure, and follow-up support during the first six months of employment.
Participants completing both phases receive a certificate and an RM2,000 incentive.
SC Chairman Datuk Mohammad Faiz Azmi said the programme aligns with efforts to enhance diversity and inclusion in the capital market workforce.
“Among the top 100 listed companies on Bursa Malaysia, over 34% of board positions are held by women as at 1 October 2025.
“With the capital market’s growing sophistication and facing a talent shortage, this programme aims to tap into the experience and expertise of returning professionals to strengthen the market’s depth and resilience,” he said.
The initiative follows the model of SC’s investED Leadership Programme, combining classroom learning, mentorship, and industry placements.
The SC will also connect participants with partner companies for potential employment and provide guidance from seasoned professionals.
Partners supporting the programme include the 30% Club Malaysia, LeadWomen Sdn Bhd, Securities Industry Development Corporation, PwC Malaysia Holdings, and Talent Corporation Malaysia Berhad. - November 10, 2025
