WORKPLACE reforms for working women, particularly mothers with caregiving responsibilities, must go beyond financial assistance and address structural support within the workplace, said Wanita MCA.
While post-maternity leave allowances are welcomed, its secretary-general Chan Quin Er said mothers require more comprehensive measures to help them balance professional and family responsibilities.
“Workplace childcare facilities should be provided. Malaysia has only 265 registered workplace nurseries as of 2024, which reflects the limited support available for working women,” she remarked.
“Providing such services would not only ease mothers’ burdens but also encourage more women to enter or remain in the workforce without worry.”
Where workplace childcare is not feasible, Chan pointed out that employers should provide flexible working arrangements, including work-from-home and hybrid models.
“This would allow them to fulfil their professional responsibilities without neglecting childcare, particularly for mothers with infants and toddlers,” she added.
Chan also called for the introduction of dedicated parental leave, beyond existing maternity and paternity provisions.
“There are times when parents may need to care for their children during illness or medical emergencies,” she continued.
“Rather than relying on emergency or annual leave, dedicated parental leave would be more appropriate. Employee welfare should extend beyond perks and bonuses to ensuring a healthy balance between work and family life.”
On mental health, Chan highlighted the importance of post-maternity support, noting that many women experience postpartum depression, anxiety and fatigue.
“To support them during this period, companies should consider offering counselling services. In addition, organising light exercise or yoga sessions could help improve wellbeing and support a smoother return to work,” she added.
On May 1, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said the government will introduce the Post-Maternity Leave Allowance as a progressive measure to support women’s participation in the workforce and reduce the stress faced by mothers after giving birth.
He said the initiative was introduced following findings that the labour force participation rate among women, especially those aged between 25 and 39, had shown a slight decline, partly due to maternity commitments.
Anwar elaborated that the allowance would be introduced through an amendment to the Employment Insurance System Act 2017 and is aimed at providing additional financial support to mothers who needed longer time after maternity leave.
On this, Chan said women’s empowerment should not be limited to post-maternity allowances.
“Effective workplace reforms and policies must be implemented to build a supportive and sustainable environment for working women,” she stressed. ‒ May 6, 2026
Main image: HRM Asia
