KUALA LUMPUR – It’s time to boost the percentage of women in professional and technical occupations in line with career developments today.

The Chairperson of the Women and Family Affairs Organisation (HAWA) Malaysia, Tan Sri Shahrizat Abdul Jalil, said women now possess great potential to work in sectors once monopolised by men.

“I’m impressed with the significant increase in women’s participation in industries such as logistics, robotics, transportation, and many more.

“As a non-governmental organisation, HAWA will also help uncover more women to be highlighted to balance today’s workforce ecosystem,” she said after presenting awards to 23 outstanding women from various fields at FemForward 2025. 

Shahrizat, who also chairs the WITI (Women in Trade and Industry) Consultative Committee under MITI, said today’s women demonstrate high dedication and spirit, contributing immeasurably in various aspects of life.

“We are not just celebrating women excelling in their fields, but also showing appreciation for women,” she added.

“I love seeing women today who are brave enough to explore new areas—they are the pioneers of the nation’s success,” she said. 

Meanwhile, the President of CILT Malaysia, Prof Ts Muhammad Zaly Shah, said proactive steps are needed to increase women’s participation in professional and technical fields.

“There are indeed challenges, such as skepticism from men who feel women are incapable.

“But from what we’ve seen today, most have proven their abilities, and our job is to provide them with the best opportunities,” he said. 

He explained that professional and technical fields are no longer exclusive to men but are shared with women to elevate the current economy. 

According to Malaysia’s Department of Statistics, 188,000 women were involved in the transportation sector in 2022. However, the percentage of women in professional and technical occupations was only 40.2% in 2023.

“Thus, in the coming years, this number is expected to continue rising,” he added. 

In light of this need, FemForward 2025 presented 23 awards to women from various fields. Themed “Accelerate Action in Women Community”, the program was organised by Women in Logistics and Transport (WiLAT), Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport (CILT) Malaysia, alongside HAWA Malaysia, Balai Ikhtisas Malaysia (BIM), and Synergy Connect Holdings Sdn Bhd. It symbolises recognition of their leadership, dedication, and achievements in key national sectors.

Sources: MalaysiaGazette, Facebook