RAUB: The Government has set a target to get more women in the workforce, says Datin Paduka Chew Mei Fun.

The Deputy Women, Family and Community Development Minister said last year, statistics showed 54.1% women were employed compared to 81% men.

“We hope the number of working women can reach 59% by 2020.

“This target is realistic and can be achieved as women made up some 48.1% of the country’s population,” she said during a gathering to appreciate the contributions of working women organised by Wanita MCA and several non-governmental organisations.

Chew, who is also MCA vice-president, said it was a waste of human resources for women who had attained a high level of education not to be employoed.

She said they would be able to contribute positively to nation building with their skills, expertise and experience.

“Women can compete equally with men in the workforce.

“Both genders contributions are needed to help the nation progress further,” she said.

Chew added these days, a woman could work and look after her family at the same time.

“More opportunities will be opened up for them in due course,” she said. – By SIMON KHOO

-The Star-