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STATEMENT BY

MR. MUHAMMAD AMMAR RAFIQ RUSLAN

DELEGATE TO THE 78TH SESSION OF THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY

PERMANENT MISSION OF MALAYSIA TO THE UNITED NATIONS 

 

DURING THE GENERAL DISCUSSION ON 

AGENDA ITEM 26: ADVANCEMENT OF WOMEN  

 

THIRD COMMITTEE OF THE 78TH UNITED NATIONS GENERAL ASSEMBLY  

 

UNITED NATIONS, NEW YORK, 3 OCTOBER 2023  

 

 

Thank you, Mr. Chair.  

 

Malaysia aligns itself with the statement delivered by Thailand on behalf of ASEAN, and adds the following remarks in our national capacity.   

 

2.     Malaysia constantly strives to improve women’s advancement and development through policies and plans with clear targets, indicators and time frames. We are committed in enhancing inclusiveness and equitable opportunities for all Malaysians, including women, as well as in ensuring better representation of women in politics, the economy and the social sphere. These efforts are reflected in national development plans as well as annual federal government budgets.    

 

Mr. Chair,  

 

3.     In enhancing women’s capacity and increasing their role as decision-makers, the Government has introduced a policy which requires 30 percent of appointments to top management positions to be women. We have achieved this target in the public sector and are now are focusing on the private sector. Pursuant to the 2022 Malaysian Budget, the Securities Commission of Malaysia has made it mandatory for all public-listed companies to appoint at least one (1) female director, effective from 1 September 2022 for large capital companies, and 1 June 2023 for other public-listed companies.  

 

4.     Malaysia also continues to review and enact laws to enhance the safety and security of women and girls, and better protecting their rights. Following the passing of the Anti-Sexual Harassment Act by the Malaysian Parliament on 11 August last year, the Government officially launched, on 29 May 2023, the implementation guideline of the AntiSexual Harassment Act as well as the advocacy programme roadshow of the Act. The objectives of the roadshow are to raise public awareness on sexual harassment as well as platforms for recourse, particularly through the Anti-Sexual Harassment Tribunal established under the Act. Through the Act and its implementation guideline, we aim to create a secure working environment for women in the labour force, free from discrimination and violence. We are confident that this will also promote greater participation of women in the workforce.  

 

Mr. Chair,  

 

5.     In increasing women’s participation in the economy and encouraging them to remain in the labour force, the Government is enhancing access to quality early childhood care and education services, as well as affordable elderly care. In addition, the Department of Women Development is undertaking efforts to empower women to maximise their potential to contribute to the country’s development, as well as to offer support to women in vulnerable situations via multiple economic platforms, focusing on entrepreneurship development.  

 

6.     Additionally, a Gender Mainstreaming Agenda has been introduced in the public sector, which includes, amongst others, capacity building programmes and the appointment of Gender Focal Points (GFP) in all ministries and government agencies. The Government has appointed 44 GFP which will lead Gender Focal Teams to implement gender mainstreaming at their respective ministries and agencies. Emphasis will be placed on enhancing institutional capacity and evidence-based policymaking. 

 

Mr. Chair,  

 

7.     There is a Malay proverb that goes, “sedikit demi sedikit, lama-lama menjadi bukit”, which loosely translates to – lumps of soil will amount to a mountain. Malaysia believes that every little step we take today for the advancement of women will eventually contribute to the quest of the greater goal of a more inclusive society. Malaysia will continue to undertake efforts for the advancement of women, domestically and at the international fora.  

 

I thank you.