While women have come a long way over six decades, they have yet to make adequate progress in the workforce to be on par with men. Stakeholders want to see this change under Budget 2024.
It can be challenging for women to return to work after childbirth but, according to stakeholders, the right policies and help from their partners can help ease the way.
As Qyira Yusri of Asia Group Advisors, a public affairs consultancy that supports global businesses in Asia, pointed out, greater purchasing power is always good for business. “There is no tax incentive to encourage businesses to offer childcare subsidies to their employees,” MEF executive director Shamsuddin Bardan said.
“This is also good for business. Those that understand and cater to the needs and preferences of female consumers can expand their customer base and increase revenue,” she said.