Type: International

Budget 2023 Must Address Gender Gaps in Identified Sectors

Professor Sharifah Hapsah called for Budget 2023 to address gender disparities in sectors affecting women’s economic participation and wellbeing. Her public commentary drew attention to the need for gender-responsive measures, social protection, employment support and recognition of the structural barriers faced by women.

Maintaining Professional Women in Employment

Professor Sharifah Hapsah was interviewed by Bernama in a Ruang Bicara programme concerning the retention of professional women in employment. The engagement examined how gender-responsive workplace ecosystems, employment policies and support facilities could help highly skilled and professional women remain in the workforce, particularly in specialist and expert fields.

Government Urged to Refine the Implementation of 90 Days’ Maternity Leave

Professor Sharifah Hapsah supported the proposed extension of maternity leave to 90 days but called for a carefully designed implementation mechanism that would balance the interests of workers, employers, government and the economy. She proposed incentives and possible funding mechanisms to reduce the burden on employers and warned that poorly designed implementation could unintentionally increase […]

Women’s Assembly at the Ninth Session of the World Urban Forum

Contributing to the Women’s Assembly at WUF9 in Kuala Lumpur, Professor Sharifah Hapsah spoke on urban governance, safe cities, economic inclusion, and the ethical responsibilities of families regarding digital media. Relevant Link: • IISD – World Urban Forum summary

No Kiddie Pack, Every Life Counts

Professor Sharifah Hapsah issued a public statement opposing proposals to reintroduce small cigarette packages commonly described as “kiddie packs.” She situated NCWO’s position within Malaysia’s obligations under the World Health Organization Framework Convention on Tobacco Control and argued that commercial considerations should not override evidence-based public-health policy or the protection of children and young people.

Integrity Is Everyone’s Responsibility

Professor Sharifah Hapsah emphasised that a culture of integrity could not be assigned solely to government institutions or enforcement bodies. She presented integrity as a shared responsibility involving individuals, families, communities, organisations and national institutions, thereby connecting ethical conduct with responsible citizenship and sustainable governance.