By Yasmin Ramlan
SHAH ALAM, Oct 30 — State executive councillor for women empowerment and welfare Anfaal Saari has stated that the Selangor government should further acknowledge the importance of the care economy sector for the state’s economic development.
At the launch of the Selangor Care Economy Symposium 2023 today, Anfaal said that the event serves as a platform for stakeholders to explore ideas concerning the care economy and engage in discussions on issues and strategies related to the economic segment.
“As the most developed state, Selangor should go the extra mile to recognise the care sector as an crucial element for the state’s development, which can also contribute significantly to the state’s economy.
“To achieve this objective, existing policies, initiatives, and programmes need to be carefully examined and strategically refined,” she said in her opening remarks at the event held at the Mardhiyyah Hotel, here, today.
Anfaal also touched on the significance of the care service sector, which includes care for children, the disabled, and the elderly, which is typically provided by their own families.
She noted that the care sector and its responsibilities do not receive the recognition they merit.
“This responsibility is commonly viewed as an individual obligation, and it often falls on women. For instance, infant care and housework have traditionally been associated with women.
“As a result, women are often expected to devote themselves to the responsibilities, even if it means quitting their jobs, becoming full-time housewives, or juggling between their careers and domestic duties,” she said.
Anfaal elaborated that the group typically does not generate income from their duties, have no savings, social security benefits, or opportunities for career advancements or skills development.
“Not only are they required to work full-time, but they often work for extended hours, which can have a significant impact on their mental well-being and overall quality of life,” she said.
Citing a study from the Statistics Department (DOSM), Anfaal said in 2022, 5.1 percent of women are housewives, in contrast to only 1.9 percent of men.
She said that the disparity between female and male labour force participation in Selangor, which is 69.9 per cent for women and 83.5 per cent for men, is a direct result of this.
