The SME World Forum continued with Day 2, focused on women entrepreneurs. The role of women entrepreneurs in Malaysia is vital to the nation’s economic growth and societal progress. Women are not just business leaders; they are community builders and changemakers. Yet, the COVID-19 pandemic brought unparalleled challenges that disproportionately affected women, especially in Malaysia, where cultural and societal expectations often demand that women juggle multiple roles. Many women found themselves simultaneously managing their careers, households, children, elder parents, and even their husbands’ parents, creating a burden that became overwhelming for many.
This crisis underscored the urgent need for better support systems and policies to empower women entrepreneurs and alleviate the pressure of these compounded responsibilities. Addressing accessible childcare, elder care, and flexible work arrangements is essential to ensure women can pursue their entrepreneurial ambitions without sacrificing well-being.
The WomenPreneurs event was jointly organized by the National Association of Malaysia (NAWEM) and the International Council for Small Business (ICSB) to spotlight and support women entrepreneurs. Held at HELP University in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, the event brought together leaders and visionaries in women’s entrepreneurship. NAWEM, under the leadership of Sarojini Ruth, President, was established in 1993. It is a non-governmental organization uniquely positioned to undertake initiatives that support women entrepreneurs across Malaysia. Representing women in businesses ranging from small to large enterprises, NAWEM spans a broad cross-section of industries, including manufacturing, IT, financial services, education, aerospace, trading, food and beverage, engineering, and more. As a multi-ethnic organization, NAWEM embodies Malaysia’s diversity, with members from all ethnic groups contributing to a vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem. Through its leadership, NAWEM influences and shapes policies to benefit women in business, fostering their growth and enhancing their impact on the nation’s economy and society. HELP University, an acronym for Higher Education Learning Philosophy, was founded on April 1, 1986, by Chancellor Paul Chan Tuck Hoong and Chan-Low Kam Yok. The university served as an inspiring venue, highlighting the critical role of education and innovation in empowering women entrepreneurs.
The collaboration between NAWEM, ICSB, and HELP University underscores the power of collective action in empowering women entrepreneurs. The WomenPreneurs event reaffirmed the importance of equipping women with the tools and opportunities they need to thrive in today’s dynamic business landscape by providing a platform for knowledge-sharing, networking, and policy advocacy.
The ICSB WomenPreneurs event showcased the resilience, creativity, and determination of women business leaders in Malaysia and beyond. It provided a platform for women to share their experiences, challenges, and strategies for success, fostering a network of support and collaboration. The event also highlighted women’s critical role in driving innovation and sustainability, particularly during times of crisis.
As Malaysia continues to recover from the effects of the pandemic, it is imperative to prioritize the empowerment of women entrepreneurs. Investing in education, creating supportive ecosystems, and implementing inclusive policies ensure women have the tools and opportunities to thrive. Empowering women entrepreneurs is not just a matter of equity—it is a cornerstone of sustainable economic growth and societal resilience.
The ICSB WomenPreneurs event at HELP University reminds us of the extraordinary potential of women entrepreneurs and the collective responsibility to nurture and support their endeavors. Together, we can build a future where women’s contributions are recognized, celebrated, and fully supported in every aspect of society.
