From 19 to 21 June 2025, Kuala Lumpur became the heartbeat of a movement that is shaping ASEAN’s future: Sheeconomy.
The Women Economic Forum ASEAN 2025 gathered women leaders, entrepreneurs, policymakers, cultural voices, and changemakers from across Southeast Asia and beyond.
The Sheconomy in Motion
Inside the halls of the Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry (MITI), women were rewriting what leadership looks like.
You could feel the shift in every space from packed panel discussions, focused breakout sessions, honest fireside chats, and podcast recordings buzzing in the background.
They spoke about scaling micro-businesses, blending heritage with modern business models, and unlocking new opportunities in cross-border trade led by women.
They tackled real challenges such as funding gaps, lack of recognition, and work-life pressures.
A Line-Up That Spoke Volumes
From Malaysia’s YABhg. Dato’ Seri Dr Wan Azizah Dr. Wan Ismail who officiated the event and shared heartfelt reflections on legacy, leadership, and nation-building, to trailblazing entrepreneurs like Mariam Elhouli and Dr Meenakshi Dabral, every voice brought something powerful.
Together, they shaped a richer understanding of what it means to lead as a woman in ASEAN today.
We heard from corporate changemakers like Mala Dorasamy, who transforms business spaces into inclusive platforms.
Noor Amy Ismail spoke on human-centred technology and the need for digital wellbeing in today’s always-online world.
Founders like Nuren Group’s Petrina Goh showed us how visibility fuels women-led brands across ASEAN.
Public policy leaders like Surayati Binti Ibrahim shared what it takes to drive digital change for women in government.
Visionaries such as Uma Thana Balasingam reminded us that inclusive tech leadership must span generations, genders, and borders.
These weren’t distant, theoretical ideas.
They were real stories, grounded in lived experience, shared with honesty and conviction.
Whether it was building Halal-certified brands, using AI to uplift small businesses, or carving safer digital spaces, these women are defining success on their own terms.
Their journeys reflect ambition, depth, and the courage to lead differently.
This year’s forum wasn’t confined to stages. It moved into networking corners, cultural showcases, and chats over locally brewed coffee.
From ministers to grassroots advocates, youth voices to seasoned founders, one thing was clear: the Sheconomy isn’t just rising, it’s already here and thriving.
What’s Next: Highlights, Podcasts, and Stories You Don’t Want to Miss
Some of our live podcast sessions are already up on the Motherhood.com.my’s Facebook page, with more snippets rolling out soon on our Instagram and TikTok pages.
If you missed the event or want to dive deeper into the conversations, we’ve got you covered – Motherhood’s exclusive Day 1, Day 2, and Day 3 recaps are coming soon!
As you consume our exclusive Women Economic Forum (WEF) ASEAN 2025 coverages, please reshare, like, and spread the love!
And don’t forget to leave us a comment – we’d love to hear how you, as a woman, are going after your own dreams.
Because every story shared inspires another to begin.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as medical advice from Motherhood. For any health-related concerns, it is advisable to consult with a qualified healthcare professional or medical practitioner.
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