Role of women to increase, says Najib (Updated)

PUTRAJAYA: The role of women in contributing to the nation's development is expected to increase during the 2018 Women Empowerment Year, said Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Abdul Razak.

Speaking at the launch, the premier said that while the country has a good record, having progressed in leaps and bounds over the role and rights of women, it still does not suffice.

"Other countries that have sidelined the participation of women have now realised that they will not progress should they continue to do so.

"As such these countries are playing a catch-up game in an effort to boost their economic output.

"The expansion of women's role in the country and society is in line with the current globalisation and the Industrial Revolution (IR) 4.0 which promotes women's role in ensuring prosperity and progress in the country through economic participation.

"This is something that Malaysia has already acted upon," he said during the launch of the 2018 Women Empowerment Year (TMW18) logo at the Prime Minister's Office, here.

Stating that the role of women is vital towards economic development, Najib said several programmes would be launched in conjunction with TMW18 including the Investment Literacy Programme, Malaysian Women-made programme and Impact for Humanity Programme (IR) 4.0 to kick start the campaign.

During the programme itself, three women were recognised as icons and inspiration for other women in the country under the TMW18 campaign.

The women included social activist and business entrepreneur Selangor princess Tengku Zatashah Sharafuddin Idris Shah, Fashion Valet owner Datin Vivy Yusof and celebrity cum businesswoman Noor Neelofa Mohd Noor.

Aiming to inspire more women in the country to take up the cause, Tengku Zatashah said she is looking forward to working with the Women, Family and Community Development Ministry to push for more female empowerment agendas such as education, community development and health.

Meanwhile, Women, Family and Community Development Minister Datuk Seri Rohani Abdul Karim called on government departments and agencies to utilise the new logo in an effort to promote and expand the campaign further.

"As for the TMW2018 portal, we will add in various information and activities related to the development of women.

"The portal will act as a reference for various parties including non-governmental organisations to pick up various women success stories in the country," she added.

Those seeking more information on the logo, campaign and opportunities to participate may visit the official website www.tmw18.gov.my and follow the hashtag #TMW18 for updates.