Malaysia’s current society consists of a multitude of

variable responsibilities, each supporting one another. As an

ever-expanding population, the leaders are slowly reducing
flaws within the country to zero. This effort was made obvious
when the age requirement to vote for the democratic election
was lowered to 18 years old. Although the community is
improved by amplifying the voices of the youth, there are still
problems that haven’t been addressed and taken seriously by
the nation. One of the many issues that can be named is lack of
gender equality in organisations, even more so in formal
settings such as Malaysia’s very own leaders.

Gender bias and discrimination may not be visible in every

situation, but as the saying goes, history is told by the winners
– the party which would be affected negatively would often
have their voices shut out. For years, it has been proven men
are more likely to be granted high positions compared to
women. It’s a part of Malaysian culture to assign men as
leaders and women as their assistants; most of the time their
skills and potential aren’t even considered. This deeply rooted
culture starts as early as primary school years. Thus, a majority
of Malaysian women are often seen as timid or submissive.

Aside from that, gender stereotypes are also obstructing

Malaysia from continuously moving forward. Most of the locals
would admit to the stereotype stating how women are easily
swayed by emotions and it would be easy if they just married a
rich man and settle as a housewife. On the other side, men
think more rationally and should be working to provide money.
However old-fashioned this mindset is, it is enough for some
weak men to be employed over capable women. As a result,
women tend to have less opportunities to flaunt their talents
and hard work.

Earning a job in a male dominated environment is already

an achievement by itself, but mistreatment towards women still
continues even in a professional workplace. Women are often
looked down upon and receive less support compared to men.
Very recently, an issue has been voiced about a sexist remark
made by a member of the parliament. Despite the
unprofessionalism displayed by Tajuddin Abdul Rahman, there
has been hesitation to punish him, even considering his known
past records of misbehaving in the parliament. However,
another politician, Kasthuriraani Patto was ejected from the
Dewan Rakyat for speaking up about her dissatisfaction
towards the lack of punishment Tajuddin received.

As our awareness towards this matter increases, we must

realise the disadvantages if it isn’t solved. Ranking 103rd out of
146 countries under the Global Gender Gap Index 2022,
Malaysia must urgently overcome gender inequality. To reduce
gender bias, we must start by educating the locals, especially
the upcoming generation. It is important that unconscious
gender bias and its effects are mentioned so it could be
avoided in the future. Schools must not restrict socialisation
between boys and girls as to implement an equal mindset in
class. Girls should also be given the opportunity to be leaders
no matter how small the organisation, which includes the
class’s president position. This effort needs participation from
the parents as well, planting the idea of gender equality as a
human right. Therefore, as people of a progressive country, we
must unite and work together to lessen the gender gap
between men and women.