The 2025 budget that was announced last Friday by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has introduced an initiative aimed at empowering women and bridging the gender gap in Malaysia.
This budget plan allocates RM470 million to help micro, small, and medium enterprises (PMKS) led by women.
This effort aims to provide financing funds in terms of working capital, asset purchases, and business expansion through banks such as SME Bank and Bank Rakyat.
Prof. Dr. Haslinda Abdullah from Universiti Putra Malaysia emphasized the importance of increasing women's participation in corporate boards.
Meanwhile, Dr. Nadisah Zakaria, a senior lecturer from Prince Sultan University in Riyadh considers the allocation of RM650 million for women and youth entrepreneurship as recognition of the important role of women in the economy.
Other initiatives taken include the Women's Leadership Apprenticeship Program (PERANTIS) and the implementation of the Returnship Program which aims to help women return to the workforce, especially in the financial sector.
In addition, employers who accept women to return to work may benefit from a 50% income tax exemption for a period of 12 months.
The 2025 budget plan that has been drawn up is a comprehensive effort to elevate the status of women and ensure that their contributions are recognised.
This marks a significant step towards gender equality and sustainable economic growth in Malaysia.
