Malaysia Archives - Page 2 of 11

Empowering Women in Leadership: 30% Club Malaysia meets LAKSANA

Posted on December 30, 2023January 8, 2024 by 30club-Malaysia

Recently, 30% Club Malaysia sat down with a team of LAKSANA – Agensi Pelaksanaan Ekonomi & Koordinasi Strategik Nasional to discuss collaboration and support our continued agenda for Path to Parity.

Dato’ Ami Moris, our Chair along with steer-co members, Rejina Rahim of the Influence pillar and Norlela Baharudin of the Enable (Board Mentoring Scheme) pillar met with Sharifah Khairiyah and Shahrol of LAKSANA, an agency set up by the Ministry of Finance (MOF) to track and monitor the implementation of key government initiatives.

The agency believes that key initiatives such as those advocated by the 30% Club Malaysia to promote more diversity in boardrooms and C-suites receive support and collaboration with the regulators and policymakers.

During the discussion, representatives of 30% Club Malaysia proposed how the agenda of a 𝙋𝒂𝙩𝒉 𝒕𝙤 𝙋𝒂𝙧𝒊𝙩𝒚 can be furthered at various ministries e.g. MOF and the Ministry of Women Community and Family Development.

During the discussion, a key suggestion was made for the relevant authorities to take the lead in talent pipeline initiatives for both the public and private sectors.

The discussion also focused on influencing the investment ecosystem within Government-Linked Companies (GIC) and Government-Linked Investment Company (GLIC) in terms of promoting various measures to support more women-linked investment initiatives, women entrepreneurs, and more women participation at the policy-making level in the government and local authorities.

The 30% Club Malaysia is eager to work with the relevant ministries and agencies, as the potential benefits for the country are evident – a 36% boost in GDP, equivalent to USD20 billion, can be realised by aligning women’s workforce participation with that of men.

A study conducted by McKinsey & Company in collaboration with Lean In presents compelling evidence of a direct link between increased representation of women in leadership roles and higher return on equity.

The 30% Club Malaysia is hopeful and positive that it can forge a stronger collaboration with the Government as it strives to make further progress along the Path to Parity in the current year.

30% Malaysia 2023 Report Card

Posted on December 20, 2023May 2, 2024 by 30club-Malaysia

As the year draws to a close, we are thrilled to share our 2023 Report Card highlighting key achievements.

Working alongside our strategic partners and corporate and individual advocates have been a blessing, and we’re humbled by the trust they’ve placed in us as a valued partner in their DEI journey.

To more milestones in 2024!

Women in STEM – Malaysia Edition

Posted on November 8, 2023November 15, 2023 by 30club-Malaysia

The 30% Club Malaysia recently held a special “Women in STEM” edition of its signature Board Awareness Program in collaboration with Microsoft Malaysia, supported by Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC)!

The afternoon drew a full-house of engaged C-suite women and entrepreneurs, alongside a distinguished lineup of speakers, presenters, and panelists.

Carefully curated to deliver valuable insights into board roles, the Board Awareness Program highlighted trending areas of expertise, and offered practical knowledge on essential skillsets required to get into board positions.

One notable observation shared by Marzida Mohd Noor during her presentation was the evolving age demographic of board members, with an increasing number of women aged 40-50 holding board roles.

She also touched on the 30% Club’s strategic direction, including the hope to garner more support from institutional investors as corporate advocates in this journey towards parity.

As K Raman rightfully covered in his closing remarks, cultivating a growth mindset is crucial for navigating the transformations in this digital age, with women in tech playing an invaluable role in steering the way forward!

Our heartfelt gratitude goes out to Microsoft Malaysia for graciously hosting the afternoon, and Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC) for the great support extended. Special thanks to our esteemed speakers and panelists, K Raman, MD of Microsoft Malaysia; Gopi Ganesalingam, SVP and Head of Digital Exports, MDEC; Datuk Yasmin Mahmood, Dr. Jasmine Begum, See Mei Chin, and 30% Club steering committee members, Marzida Mohd Noor, Raj Kumar Paramanathan and the many volunteers who made it happen!

Securities Commission Malaysia hosts OECD-Asia Roundtable on Corporate Governance

Posted on October 21, 2023November 15, 2023 by 30club-Malaysia

“What is acceptable today may not be acceptable tomorrow” was how Arabesque AI’s CEO Carolina Minio Paluello, PhD closed her remarks at the 30% Club Malaysia “DEI x Climate Ambition” panel, OECD-Asia Roundtable on Corporate Governance at the Securities Commission Malaysia

Today, diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) is still seen to be a nice to have.

This is evolving as a more conscious generation enters the workforce. The momentum of change will only grow, fuelled by social media and reporting requirements, in turn leading to more informed consumers and investors. Embracing DEI is logical, makes good business sense and underpins good corporate governance.

A broader talent pool is a precursor for innovation to flourish especially in an era where we’re grappling with climate crisis, our panelist Petronas Chief Sustainability Officer Charlotte Wolff-Bye said. Focusing on the right skills, at the right place, and the deployment of technology helps in making the process agnostic.

Our male ally and panelist Suresh Kumar Dass said it was also imperative for the rest of the supply chain to follow through with DEI ambitions, supported by the government by for example, setting a timeframe for compliance on diversity.

Carolina Minio Paluello, PhD shared data to show a correlation between the climate agenda and women on board.

The hope is for regulators to push for investors to look at the data for impactful portfolio construction.

Data is king.

Thank you to our panelists Carolina Minio Paluello, PhDCharlotte Wolff-ByeSuresh Kumar Dass and moderator Ami Moris for this wonderful session, and thank you to the Securities Commission Malaysia for the kind invitation to engage with capital market regulators from 18 countries.

“You can make a difference and you are never alone,”

Posted on October 13, 2023November 15, 2023 by 30club-Malaysia

“You can make a difference and you are never alone.”

That was one key message from this week’s Sesi Bual Bicara Kepimpinan Wanita (Dialogue on Women’s Leadership), under the auspices of the Institut Sosial Malaysia (ISM) and the Ministry of Women, Family and Community Development

30% Club Malaysia Board Mentoring Scheme mentees, Shireen Iqbal and Emi Rice-Oxley were invited to be part of this engaging panel where they shared their successes and motivations.

Including lawyer Fahda Nur Ahmad Kamar and having Dr Wan Nur Ibtisam Wan Ismail as the moderator made the conversation truly enriching.

Thank you to ISM for the kind invitation to talk about the 30% Club Malaysia mission to elevate diversity, equity and inclusion in Malaysia.

Also thank you to Datuk Dr Maziah Che Yusoff, Secretary General and Dr Wan Nur, Director General of the Ministry of the Ministry of Women et; Dr Faridah Awang, Director of ISM for your unwavering support.

These events and platforms are essential for fostering dialogue, sharing experiences, and inspiring women to go further.

The 30% Club is indeed grateful to be part of this precious opportunity.

30% Club Malaysia and Heriot-Watt University Malaysia host “Equipping Leaders, Bridging Gaps” celebration

Posted on September 26, 2023November 15, 2023 by 30club-Malaysia

The 30% Club Malaysia and Heriot-Watt University Malaysia in collaboration with Edinburgh Business School, Heriot-Watt University today hosted the “Equipping Leaders, Bridging Gaps” celebration, a tribute to our remarkable past and present scholars who were recipients of the “Shaping Entrepreneurial Women” scholarship which was incepted in 2017.

Guests were privileged to have heard from a panel of inspirational scholarship recipients who shared heartfelt stories of their journeys towards completing their MBA programs.

These stories underscored the profound impact that life’s circumstances can have on one’s path, and the determination to empower not just themselves but women like them.

Prof. Mushtak Al-Atabi, Provost and CEO of Heriot-Watt University Malaysia, spoke about the legacy of purpose-driven women leaders at the university, stretching back over two centuries when it all began with Mary Burton, who successfully campaigned for the admission of women students on equal terms to men in 1869, twenty-three years before legislation required Scottish universities to do so.

Dato’ Ami Moris further highlighted how the scholarship aligns with the 30% Club’s role in activating Chairs and CEOs of companies to the 30% Club objectives, while nurturing a community of empowered women leaders that inspire others through an alliance built upon shared purpose and values, and where gender diversity is a norm.

Our heartfelt gratitude goes out to our scholars Sharmila Gunasekaran, RPh, MBA, Catherine M. and Sarania Sukumaran who candidly shared their experiences of how the scholarship has transformed their lives, providing hope and lighting their path forward.

We also extend our thanks to our moderator, Vani Mahadevan for skillfully bringing out these powerful stories that resonated well with our audience.

Congratulations Cohort 8!

Posted on September 13, 2023November 15, 2023 by 30club-Malaysia

Early last month, the 30% Club Malaysia celebrated the completion of Cohort 8 of the 30% Club Malaysia’s Board Mentoring Scheme.

The nine-month journey for the Cohort 8 was transformative. While the primary goal was to prepare for board roles, it naturally evolved into a process of self-discovery.

The cohorts had the opportunity to recognise their strengths, summon the courage to step out of their comfort zones, and make intentional career decisions that aligned with their core values and ambitions.

During the event, the 30% Club Malaysia also warmly welcomed Cohort 9 into the fold of their Board Mentoring Scheme. The occasion was graced by the presence of distinguished guests, including Tan Sri Abdul Wahid Omar, Chair of Bursa Malaysia, and WWF Malaysia.

Get on Board with Deloitte’s Board-Ready Women Programme

Posted on September 7, 2023November 15, 2023 by 30club-Malaysia

Deloitte Malaysia launched its inaugural Board-Ready Women Programme 2023 in partnership with the Institute of Corporate Directors Malaysia, Boardroom Malaysia, and the 30% Club Malaysia.

The Board-Ready Women Programme, an initiative under the Global Boardroom Programme, aims to prepare and position aspiring women for board placements, equipping them to be effective in their roles.

In Malaysia, Siti Hajar Osman is the CoLeader for the Global Boardroom Programme and will be leading this Board-Ready Women Programme.

At the programme’s launch event, Datuk Ami Moris, Chair of 30% Club Malaysia, addressed the state of women in Malaysian boardrooms.

She highlighted the remarkable achievement of women now holding slightly over 30% of board seats in the top 100 publicly listed companies on Bursa Malaysia. This milestone underscores a significant step towards gender parity and a growing acknowledgment of the immense value diversity brings to the corporate world.

In her speech, she emphasised, “Collectively, Corporate Malaysia can be a force for good to create a more cohesive society, as envisaged by the Madani Economy, where every individual has equitable opportunities to contribute and thrive.”

The programme comprises four interactive modules conducted over two months, each delving into critical aspects of governance, personal attributes, live boardroom simulation, and leadership qualities.

These are :

Session 1: (that took place on 6 September): Governance & Technical, which will provide an introduction to key corporate governance & technical principles as well as the legal aspects for the role.

Session 2: Personal Attributes, will focus on building a personal brand, navigating board dynamics and leveraging on mentorship to accelerate the board journey.

Session 3: Live Boardroom Simulation, will be a mock boardroom simulation and breakout session with feedback and guidance on some leading practices from the facilitators.

Session 4: Inspired Board-Ready Women and Graduation, the final session will cover the importance of board diversity, shed light on the current barriers that exist for women as well as provide valuable advice to help prepare participants for their board journey.

To commemorate the successful completion of the series, a graduation celebratory luncheon will be hosted.

Participants in this programme will gain invaluable insights into the latest industry trends, technical thought leadership, and essential soft skills necessary for women leaders to excel in the boardroom.

They will also have the opportunity to network and share knowledge with senior board members, industry experts, and seasoned professionals, setting the stage for a brighter, more inclusive future in corporate leadership.

Shaping Entrepreneurial Women Scholarship

Posted on August 28, 2023September 9, 2023 by 30club-Malaysia

The story of the Heriot-Watt University Malaysia – 30% Club Malaysia scholarships begins in 2010, when Dame Heather McGregor, alongside a determined group of women, ignited the spark that would become the 30% Club UK in the UK. The 30% Club was launched in Malaysia on 8 May 2015.

In 2016, Dame McGregor became part of the Heriot-Watt University family. With a campus thriving here in Malaysia and the local chapter of the 30% Club making strides, she saw an opportunity to create the Shaping Entrepreneurial Women Scholarship that would empower Malaysian women to pursue an MBA, thus equipping them for the leadership roles of tomorrow.

These scholarships that are not just about education, but about equipping future leaders with the skills, knowledge, and confidence to be better leaders within Corporate Malaysia

An MBA is a proven pathway to building successful careers so together Heriot-Watt University Malaysia & the 30% Club Malaysia, established an annual woman scholarship with the end game to increase women representation at senior levels of business.

This partnership with Heriot-Watt University is in line with the our objective of strengthening the female boardroom pipeline to ensure that we get better gender balance in the boardrooms and senior management of Malaysian corporates.

The next intake is in January 2024 so we encourage women employed in our Corporate Members’ organisation to apply when for the scholarships when the notice goes out later this year.

Recently, several members of the 30% Club Malaysia Steering Committee(SteerCo) met some of the scholars. We delved into their stories, learned about their journeys, and shared updates about the ongoing progress of the 30% Club Malaysia. Beyond just scholars, they are advocates of a business-led revolution, champions of change in their own right.

Our heartfelt gratitude goes out to AFFIN Group for hosting us at the spectacular Menara Affin in TRX. A shout out goes out to the two participants of the recently concluded Accelerate Wahine 100MYR StartUp Competition, an educational entrepreneurship competition.

They prepared some scrumptious snacks for all to enjoy during tea. This competition was supported by some of the SteerCo & volunteer advocates of 30% Club Malaysia.

Over tea and treats, we shared laughter, stories, and dreams. Because empowerment isn’t just about numbers; it’s about connections!

Research Collaboration with Monash University Malaysia

Posted on August 26, 2023September 8, 2023 by 30club-Malaysia

30% Club Malaysia is thrilled to share a dynamic research collaboration with Monash University Malaysia’s School of Business.

What started as a serendipitous meeting between our Co-Lead of the Influence Pillar, Rejina Rahim, and Professor Grace Hooi, Head of the Economics Department, at a March 2022 event, has blossomed into something remarkable.

The result of which is one of the PhD students took on the research to examine the impact of female representation at decision-making levels on corporate performance on Bursa Malaysia’s public-listed companies (PLCs).

The research found that for every 10-percentage point increase in the representation of women on boards and female executives, there was a significant improvement of 1.4% and 1.2% on the return on investment.

30% Club Malaysia strongly believes that the path to getting Malaysia’s economic engine fired up for a sustainable future lies in empowering all segments of society.

A path towards gender parity and the all-encompassing stakeholder economy has the potential of contributing up to USD50 billion to Malaysia’s GDP according to McKinsey’s Global Institute study in 2018. With this recent finding by Monash University. Malaysia alongside the growth of women representation on Bursa’s PLCs, we hope to see that the ROI numbers grow in tandem for the benefit of all.

Read about it here. Also read about Navigating the Gender Pay Gap: Occupational Insights and Business Strategies in Malaysia here

Tag: Malaysia