women empowerment Tags | Motherhood Malaysia

We’ve all heard it before - she’s a multitasker, a nurturer, the glue holding everything together. It is the truth that women have always been doing so much more than the world gives them credit for. They’re not just supporting the economy. They’re driving it, quietly, consistently and brilliantly. And now, the spotlight’s finally turning her way and the world is paying attention. What Is the Sheconomy? The Sheconomy is a global term used to describe the rising economic power of women as consumers, business owners, leaders, and decision-makers. But in the ASEAN context, it means even more. Here, the Sheconomy isn’t just about numbers or market share. It’s about cultural resilience. It’s about women turning family recipes into export-ready brands, weaving local heritage into global business, and balancing care with capital. It’s about women showing that the economy doesn’t just work for them and it often works because of them. In ASEAN, where informal economies thrive and family networks are strong, women have always been at the centre of commerce. The Sheconomy gives this reality a name, a stage, and finally, the recognition it deserves. The Women Behind the Movement At the upcoming Women Economic Forum (WEF) ASEAN 2025, the Sheconomy will take centre stage. Held in Kuala Lumpur, this event is more than a conference - it’s a celebration of women leading beyond borders. Take Dr Meenakshi Dabral, for instance. Her company imports premium Indian groceries into Singapore, but it’s not just about product logistics. Her entire supply chain is rooted in women-led farmer cooperatives and self-help groups across India. Her work isn’t just building trade, it’s building lives. Then there’s Mala Dorasamy, CEO of MITEC, one of Malaysia’s premier exhibition spaces. She doesn’t just host business events. She creates platforms where women entrepreneurs can showcase, scale, and step into markets they were once excluded from. Nik Adina Taty Nik Zainin brings an entirely different lens. With more than 30 years in CSR, cultural diplomacy, and stakeholder engagement, she bridges the worlds of art, youth, and business. From championing traditional royal court dance to empowering teens through Art4Cause, she reminds us that heritage is not a barrier to progress - it’s part of the foundation. You’ll also hear from Datin Dr Hasnorliza Abu Hassan, who is rethinking what work should look like in a post-pandemic world. Petrina Goh, CEO of Nuren Group is the powerhouse behind Motherhood.com.my, Kelabmama, Ibuencer, and the Motherhood Parenting SuperApp - platforms that serve over 5 million mothers across Southeast Asia with trusted parenting content, community forums, and wellness tech. At the Women Economic Forum ASEAN 2025, Petrina will bring her blend of experience on innovation to discussions on education’s role in elevating women in the Sheconomy. Her insights aim to highlight how women, when supported with the right resources, access to learning, and strong leadership, can achieve remarkable success across the region. YABhg. Dato’ Seri Dr. Wan Azizah Dr. Wan Ismail, Member of Parliament and former Deputy Prime Minister of Malaysia, will officiate the event, setting the tone for three days of dialogue, connection, and empowerment. She will also share her reflections on leadership, legacy, and resilience, drawing from her years of public service and advocacy for women, families, and vulnerable communities. Why ASEAN Needs the Sheconomy Now We live in a region undergoing constant change. The pandemic reshaped how we work. Climate challenges demand sustainable solutions. Technology is transforming industries overnight. In the midst of this, women in ASEAN are not just keeping up. Many are leading the way. But challenges remain. Access to capital is still uneven. Cultural expectations still weigh heavily and support networks for women entrepreneurs are patchy. And when women do rise, they are often asked to apologise for their ambition or carry the emotional labour of being 'firsts'. That’s why the Sheconomy matters. It offers a framework that values both economic growth and human connection. It says: Yes, women can scale businesses, close deals, and innovate with the best of them! And at the same time, bring empathy, collaboration, and a long-term mindset to economies that often prize speed over substance. Women Economic Forum ASEAN 2025: Where It All Comes Together From 19 to 21 June 2025, Kuala Lumpur becomes the backdrop Women Economic Forum ASEAN 2025! Held at Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry (MITI) Malaysia, this 3 day event will welcome women leaders, changemakers, innovators, and community voices from across Southeast Asia. Women will gather not just to speak, but to listen, connect, challenge, and grow. Expect panel discussions, breakout rooms, networking corners, live interviews, podcast tapings, and thought-provoking exchanges. If you're in Kuala Lumpur, this is your chance to walk the halls, sit in, and be part of something truly regional! But if you’re not able to make it in person, don’t worry - we’ll bring the stories to you. For more information, visit WEF Asean 2025's official website or follow their Facebook and Instagram pages. Registration is still open - but only for a short while. Head to the WEF Asean 2025 official website to join in. Stay tuned to Motherhood Story for inspiring podcast episodes, exclusive interviews, key highlights, and more! Coverages will also be available on the Motherhood Parenting SuperApp, and on Motherhood.com.my's Facebook, Instagram and TikTok pages. So even if you miss the buzz on-site, the inspiration will still find its way to you. For more insightful stories and fun recipes, stay tuned to Motherhood Story!

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