This article attempts to examine the position of the Malaysian women in the
present context of capitalist development and fast rate of industrialization in
Malaysia, and raises the question, 'Does a common notion of the modem
Malaysian woman exist?'
The first part examines critically the lack of women's representation in all
institutions of society. The lack of representation especially at the important
decision-making levels has disadvantaged the majority of women.
The second part proposes that women are also disadvantaged in the
domestic sphere, where the main tasks and responsibilities are borne by
women irrespective of class, although some variation naturally exists
between these women.
The third part then looks at the roles and achievements of women's
NGOs. They have succeeded in bringing about new laws (e.g. the Domestic
Violence Act) and amendments to others (e.g. the rape laws). There appears,
in fact, to be a closer partnership between the government and women's
NGOs over women's issues. Furthermore, they have brought much-needed
services for female victims of violence, and have educated the public on
women's issues.
The last part discusses the modem capitalist, consumerist and religious
culture, which constructed the image and role of women. Conformity to the
dictates of such structures lends support to the philosophy of expediency
and acceptability for most Malay women.
