Govt To Strengthen Women’s Role In Digital Economy – Teo

KUALA LUMPUR, March 11 (Bernama) -- The government will strengthen women’s participation in Malaysia’s digital economy through initiatives such as digital upskilling, artificial intelligence (AI) literacy and cybersecurity awareness.

Deputy Communications Minister Teo Nie Ching said return-to-work programmes are also being prioritised to help women re-enter the workforce and take on greater roles in the technology sector.

“Women must not remain merely users of technology. They should also be creators, regulators, founders and leaders shaping the digital economy,” she said in her speech at an International Women’s Day event organised by the National Tech Association of Malaysia (PIKOM) here today.

Teo said flexible work arrangements, mentorship and structured re-entry pathways remain key measures to support women returning to employment.

She added that industry bodies such as PIKOM play an important role in shaping hiring culture, strengthening mentorship ecosystems and setting standards within the technology sector.

Teo said Malaysia’s digital journey over the next four decades should be defined not only by technological advancement but also by equitable participation and responsible governance.

The event, themed ‘Give To Gain’, was held in conjunction with PIKOM’s 40th anniversary and aims to strengthen women’s participation and leadership in the country’s technology ecosystem.

Earlier, a panel discussion titled ‘Balance of Scale: Career Growth vs Sustainability in the Digital Workforce’ explored how women in the technology sector balance career advancement with sustainability, well-being and inclusive leadership.

-- BERNAMA