Women in the Workplace

The second forum of FNF and Balairakyat’s talk series titled “Women in the Workplace” was held on Saturday, 19th of August, in Armada Hotel.

“Women in the Workplace” forum aims to instill awareness and concern in citizens about women’s rights in Malaysia and also to have experience sharing by people who have worked in women’s rights issues
Based on their diverse background in progressing women’s rights in Malaysia, Carol Chew of MCA Beliawanis (a women’s activist group) of the political party Malaysian Chinese Association (MCA) and Elizabeth Wong (secretariat of SUARAM and columnist of Malaysiakini) were invited as the speakers. The forum was moderated by Annie Hariharan, a member of BalaiRakyat.

Ms Chew urged young women to fight for their rights but admitted that is an uphill task. She highlighted that in many organizations, including political parties, there is a gap between the power given to men and women, and how women are placed in secondary or supporting roles.
Ms. Wong discussed how women form a large portion of the work force and of the voting population, yet they are not given much consideration. She urged those present to refrain from placing chauvinist individuals in power and to understand the immense power that women can have, if they choose to be, more assertive about their rights.

The forum had attendees who were concerned citizens and members of NGOs. During a Q&A session, the participants were vocal about the problems they faced and were curious as to how they could help out in the cause to ensure equality among women. Many of those present were eager to help but were unsure about what they could do as individuals.

[ Back ]