Mind the Pay Gap: Can Malaysia Achieve Gender Pay Equity?
Introduction The gender pay gap refers to the difference in earnings between men and women for the same work or work of equal value. Globally, women earn approximately 77 cents for every dollar earned by men. In Malaysia, the gender pay gap is even more pronounced, with women earning only RM66.67 for every RM100 earned by men. Addressing this gap is crucial for economic development and social equity. Reducing the gender pay gap can significantly enhance economic output and improve social welfare, benefiting both developed and developing nations. In this article, we will find out how Malaysia can turn this challenge into an opportunity for inclusive growth. What are the Factors? Several factors contribute to the gender pay gap, including discrimination, differences in human capital, and occupational segregation. Discrimination can manifest in hiring practices and pay decisions, while human capital differences often arise from disparities in education and work experience. Occupational se...