Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim wants women to be given a greater role and participation in government linked companies (GLCs) and government-linked investment companies (GLICs).

 KUALA LUMPUR: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim wants women to be given a greater role and participation in government-linked companies (GLCs) and government-linked investment companies (GLICs).

 In his speech at the 2023 International Women’s Day celebration here today, Anwar wants GLCs and GLICs to give women, who are qualified, the priority not only in terms of new appointments but also promotions.

 Anwar said although such a change could only be implemented in a gradual manner, he hoped to see significant progress in the roles played by women in the GLCs and GLICs. “There are still avenues for improvement (to promote a greater role for women in companies). Giving women recognition is just not enough.

There are still cases of sexual harassment involving women at workplace. Furthermore, there are many women in the workforce who feel they are not receiving the right recognition that they deserve for their wisdom, capabilities, and hard work equal to their male counterparts.

“That is why we need to explore this new mindset (of giving women greater recognition and role in organisations),” said Anwar in his speech at the event organised by the Women, Family and Community Development Ministry. Resent were its minister Datuk Seri Nancy Shukri and Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek.

 Also in attendance was Anwar’s wife, Datuk Seri Dr Wan Azizah Wan Ismail.

Anwar also cited a report by the Securities Commission, which showed the number of women holding board positions in the private sector stood at 29 percent as of Dec 31 last year.

 He also said the number of women holding grade C and above positions in the civil service was more than 38 per cent.

At the event, Anwar also spoke about how the Malaysia Madani concept espoused by the unity government under his leadership was inspired by the contributions of women in the country.

“(Malaysia) Madani could never be created without the strength of a family foundation. “And a strong family lies on the strength of a woman.

“If anyone asked me on how to ensure the success of Malaysia Madani... (his answer would be) That is right from the household under the guidance of a person whom we called mother,” he said. Anwar in his speech also paid tribute to his wife, Dr Wan Azizah, for all her contributions and sacrifices she had made especially in raising their children.

“I have to admit this... between myself and (Dr Wan) Azizah, she is better when it comes to raising our children,” he said. Anwar later announced RM1 million for the setting up of Tabung KASIH Rahmah (Rahmah KASIH Fund), aimed at helping women in vulnerable situations.

The fund, said Anwar, was being set-up under Nancy’s ministry.

“The fund is to help women in vulnerable situations such as domestic abuse victims and those neglected by their spouses before they are assisted by the Welfare Department or tithe centres,” he said.