SHAH ALAM, March 31 — Selangor has expanded its women development agenda by focusing on the care economy, in addition to leadership and entrepreneurship, as the state’s new driver.
Menteri Besar Dato’ Seri Amirudin Shari said the approach reflects the people’s current needs, which are becoming increasingly complex and dynamic.
“The evolution of women development in Selangor is now shifting to the care economy that is becoming increasingly significant, especially in the aspects of childcare and family care, but the care economy’s scope is wider as we face the reality of an ageing society, with Selangor residents’ lifespans lengthening,” he said at the Townhall X Wanita Selangor event at the Sultan Salahuddin Abdul Aziz Shah Building here today.
According to him, this demands the establishment of a stronger support network and sustainable care economy system to ensure the people’s well-being.
Amirudin said Selangor became a pioneer when it introduced a specialised care economy policy in 2023, putting the state at the forefront of the sector.
“Even at the federal level, there isn’t a comprehensive policy on the care economy as Selangor has established,” he added.
He also said the care economy is being highlighted on international stages, including at the Selangor International Business Summit (SIBS), as an important component of economic stability.
“We are strengthening strategic cooperation networks and centring the care economy on international platforms.
“This care economy is set to become an important catalyst to the state’s success and economic sustainability,” he said.
Amirudin also shared that there are still challenges, especially in terms of the perceptions towards women’s involvement in community and leadership.
“Even though we have come far, including by involving women as community leaders, there are still perceptions that must be corrected so women’s participation is more appreciated.
“This change is important so women continue to be given appropriate space in leadership and community development,” he added.
Earlier, Amirudin witnessed the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MOU) on IbuNiaga for B40 women between Wanita Berdaya Selangor (WBS) and Taylor’s University, as well as an MOU on a care training programme between WBS and The Asia Foundation, which would focus on skills development, expanding economic opportunities, and the professionalism of the care sector.
These initiatives are in line with the Selangor Care Economy Policy (2024-2030), which uplifts the care sector as a high-value field and a shared responsibility.
The strategic partnerships reflect the state government’s approach in comprehensively strengthening women development, encompassing leadership, entrepreneurship, future skills, and community and family well-being.
Amirudin asserted that efforts to empower women will continue.
“Platforms like this townhall are important to strengthen women’s programmes and make way for wider strategic partnerships for the people’s benefit.
“These partnerships would also ensure each initiative truly impacts women and family well-being in Selangor,” Amirudin said.
