Gov't Allocates RM500,000 for Women's Empowerment Research

Gov't Allots RM500,000 to ISM for Women's Empowerment Research

The Malaysian government has allotted RM500,000 worth of funding to the Social Institute of Malaysia (ISM) under the Ministry of Women, Family, and Community Development (KPWKM) to advance research on development and women's empowerment.

The ISM was established to further professional and semi-professional training in research and provide social education to social workers and non-governmental organisations in and beyond Malaysia.

The approval of the initial allocation came last March 8, on Women's Day, as Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim launched the festivities for International Women's Day, according to a press release by the Prime Minister's Office (PMO).

As per Anwar, there are emerging areas in research for women, children, and mothers and the current bureaucratic system may not be able to carry out this initiative.

"This ministry seems to suggest that we [do] not necessarily need different divisions but some research officers, working in the academic centre and universities in the country or international organisations to come up with some plans or research affecting women… and we can add (the allocation) later if we find that the research is useful," he was quoted as saying.

A total of RM1 million will also be allotted for the establishment of Tabung KASIH Rahmah (Rahmah KASIH Fund) under the KPWKM, which will focus on supporting "women in vulnerable situations," such as survivors of domestic violence and those who have experienced spousal neglect.

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