Women are an important backbone of society (we literally wouldn’t be here without them), which is why we’re so glad to know there’s a growing awareness for women’s rights and gender equality. Though there’s still room for improvement, we’re definitely heading in the right direction, evidenced by the government making progress to achieve equality.
Belanjawan 2023 introduced an assortment of initiatives and assistance to provide better support and help women achieve their full potential.
Here are some of the benefits Malaysian women can enjoy:
1. Women deserve financial support too!
a) Giving new working mums some peace of mind
There are more mothers now who are also pursuing professional careers. Which is why the government allocated RM290 million per year and the Social Security Organisation (SOCSO) will revise the Employment Insurance System Act 2017 to encourage women to return to the workforce after maternity leave. Some 130,000 women who just went through childbirth will be given childcare grants as a financial buffer until they return to work, comprising 80% of their insured salary.
b) Sigh in (tax) relief for childcare and medical costs
With childcare and medical costs on the rise, Malaysian mums can rest a little easier with these tax incentives and expanded tax relief limit:
- Tax incentives extended for employers who establish childcare facilities within their offices and assist working mums.
- Medical treatment tax relief increased from RM8,000 to RM10,000: The eligibility scope has expanded to include treatment costs for children with learning disabilities, such as autism, Down syndrome, and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
- Tax relief for childcare centres’ fees: Applicable for kids aged six years and below who are attending a registered child care centre (i.e. with the Director General of Social Welfare, under the Child Care Centre Act 1984) or kindergarten (under the Education Act 1996).
c) Be your own boss woman!
Malaysian women micro-entrepreneurs – or those aspiring to be one – can apply for up to RM235 million in financing under Women Business Financing Fund from Bank Rakyat, Bank Simpanan Nasional (BSN), TEKUN Nasional and Majlis Amanah Rakyat (MARA). With up to 10 years in tenure, it’s a feasible option for future girl bosses who need the capital to realise their dream job!
2. Caring for the health and well-being of women everywhere
a) Your mammogram and cervical cancer check-up are covered~
Though we’re all understandably trying to save as much money as possible, it’s important to never stop taking care of our health. Fortunately, Malaysian women in the B40 and M40 groups can enjoy subsidies for the following health check-ups:
- Mammogram screening test: Malaysian women (age 35 – 70) with less than RM10,000 in household income can enjoy full subsidy, while those that exceed RM10,000 get RM50 subsidy for their mammogram.
- Cervical Cancer Screening Test: Malaysian women (age 30 – 65) can enjoy FREE HPV DNA test screening kits at selected Klinik Nur Sejahtera and through LPPKN outreach programs.
More info here.
b) Say ‘No!’ to sexual harassment
To better protect Malaysian women from sexual harassment, the government has allocated RM10 million to further implement the Anti-Sexual Harassment Act 2022 by establishing a Tribunal and Advocacy Program. The act will not only serve as a support platform for affected women, but also provide education to increase the prevention and awareness of sexual harassment. After all, education is the best medicine!
c) Taking a firmer stance against sexual abuse
The Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) is establishing a specialised team under their D11 unit (Sexual, Women and Children Investigation Division) to investigate sexual abuse cases, for both women and children, more aggressively. With the rise in sexual abuse cases in recent years, more officers have been appointed to help combat this prevalent issue.
d) Local Social Support Centre: Giving women a helping hand
One-stop Local Social Support Centres (PSSS) to address domestic violence and social problems have been opened all over the country to offer holistic psychosocial services to the community, including guidance and counselling sessions, providing immediate relief to Malaysians in need, and more. So if you require any emotional support or a safe place, be sure to check out your nearest Local Social Support Centre or you can contact them at 012-3961599 / 012-6931599.
Making Malaysia a better place for women!
Thanks to the government and our fellow Malaysians, we’re progressing towards achieving a society that’s more considerate, understanding and pro-women! And Belanjawan 2023 is proof of that progress, with more women-centric initiatives that range from combating sexual harassment and abuse better to providing financial support for healthcare and motherhood. So, now is the time to take advantage of these measures to show the government that these absolutely help ease our lives!
But you know lah, Belanjawan 2023 actually covers A LOT of other areas, including social security, entrepreneurship training, youth and sports, and NGO (non-governmental organisation) development! Head over here to find out how else Belanjawan 2023 can improve your lives.
