[PRESS RELEASE] - International Women's Day 2025

The findings from the study reveal:

• Compared to the global average, slightly more Malaysians believe enough progress has been made towards gender equality, and more women share this belief
• More than half of Malaysians agree that women leaders can do better, and this is consistent with global average
• Globally, Gen Z has the highest gender gap when it comes to the perception of a man who stays home with his children is less of a man
• Generally, men often feel they are expected to do too much to support equality. Particularly, more than 60% of Malaysians share this view
• Malaysians are more confident than the global average about significant progress in gender equality. However, their optimism is lower compared to that in other Southeast Asia countries

Evelyn Tan, Interim Country Director, Ipsos Malaysia mentions:  

"International Women’s Day is celebrated annually to champion the achievement of women and to advocate gender equality. This year's theme, 'Accelerate Action,' calls us to not only recognise progress, but also to actively engage in overcoming the remaining barriers to gender equality.

Our latest global survey shows that more than half of Malaysians believe that we have done far enough towards achieving women equality. Additionally, more Malaysians also express confidence that things can be better under women leadership.

Despite these positive results, there are some setbacks. Globally, a widening gender divide is emerging, especially among Gen Z, concerning traditional masculinity and gender roles. In Malaysia, more than 60% think that men are being expected to do too much for gender equality, and one in three agrees that a stay-at-home father is perceived as “less of a man”.

These findings indicate potential resistance within society to advancing gender equality. Despite the challenges, the long-term benefits of achieving true gender equality promises a more inclusive society for all. ​"