KRI reported that although women make up 52% of those with tertiary education, they account for only 37.7% of the labour force. Furthermore, women occupy half of professional roles, yet remain significantly underrepresented in key leadership positions, such as managers (25.4%) and technicians (29%).
A recent panel discussion hosted by dobiQueen, a leading self-service laundromat, delved into critical issues surrounding gender bias, mental wellbeing, and the double burden faced by women in Malaysia. The event featured expert insights on women’s roles in society, with Khazanah Research Institute (KRI) highlighting the gap between women’s educational achievements and their representation in the workforce.
“Social norms still influence gender outcomes, especially in economic participation,” said Puteri Marjan Megat Muzafar, Research Associate at KRI. “Many women are expected to handle household responsibilities, with 62.1% of women outside the labour force citing family obligations as their main reason for not working.”
According to a recent dobiQueen consumer survey, 75% of laundromat users are women, with half being full-time employees and the other half homemakers. This survey illustrates how women continue to bear the bulk of unpaid household care work, including laundry, cooking, and caregiving.
“Despite their growing contributions to the formal economy, women are still expected to manage household duties. This disproportionate burden contributes to high stress levels,” said Nini Tan, Co-founder and Executive Director of dobiQueen.
Rakuten Insight’s 2022 survey on mental health revealed that 54% of Malaysian women experienced higher stress and anxiety levels over the past year. Founder of the Mental Illness Awareness & Support Association (MIASA), Puan Anita Abu Bakar, emphasized the mental toll this can take, noting that gender inequality in the workplace, compounded by societal expectations, can lead to caregiver fatigue and burnout.
MIASA advocates for workplace policies that support women, including flexible work arrangements, part-time positions, and on-site childcare. These measures would empower women to balance their careers and household responsibilities without fear of job loss.
To reduce household burdens, dobiQueen promotes an equitable sharing of chores, aiming to ease stress and foster a more balanced lifestyle. The company’s services, such as its Express Same Day Delivery and Drop-off & Pickup, are designed to give customers more leisure time by taking care of their laundry needs.
dobiQueen also proudly supports the upcoming International Stigma Conference 2024, organised by MIASA Malaysia. This event, set for November 23-24, aims to promote dialogue and change on issues related to mental health and stigma in society.
