Women's participation in leadership should exceed 30 percent - Nancy

KUCHING, Sept. 21: The target of 30 percent participation by women in leadership and decision-making should not be a limitation, instead more women should be given the opportunity to participate in decision making.

Minister for Women, Family and Community Development, Datuk Seri Nancy Shukri said the target of 30 per cent was insufficient and should be improved, especially in decision-making.

"Even though we're in government, it's already 30 percent, but for me it's not enough. We shouldn't limit that percentage", he said.

She said this while addressing the Inaugural Meeting of the POWER & PRESENCE Program: Image, Skills and Authority of Malaysian Women Leaders 2026, at the Sarawak State PUSTAKA Auditorium here today.

According to Nancy, more women should be given the opportunity to emerge as leaders and decision makers including in politics.

"I'm not just talking about 30 per cent, we have to do more in whatever areas are available, especially in the decision-making area", he said.

She said the Women's Leadership Enhancement Program (PERANTIS) was among the platforms implemented to guide and prepare more women to appear in leadership ranks.

She believes that women need to have clear plans, visions and orientations in order to take them further in leadership.

"To go further, you have to have a plan, you have to have a clear vision and direction. We have to know what we want and not just imitate others", he said.

Nancy also encourages women to share knowledge, open up opportunities and guide other women to build a stronger line of leadership in the future.

The POWER & PRESENCE 2026 programme runs for two days from today to tomorrow bringing together 50 women from different backgrounds, employment sectors and districts.

The program focuses on the development of strategic image, executive skills, authoritative communication, confidence, influence and decision-making ability as a preparation for women to lead.