Presenting her closing speech at the “Rise: Future Female Leaders Forum” virtual conference, Rina said it was evident there was a “direct relationship between women’s representation in decision-making and increasing the social benefits for society”.

She cited the likes of New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern, German Chancellor Angela Merkel and Taiwan president Tsai Ing Wen in successfully leading their respective countries and containing the Covid-19 pandemic.

“It is important to harness women’s full potential as leaders, innovators and agents of change for the betterment of all.”

Rina added that it was equally important for men to work towards creating an “equitable environment” for better awareness of gender equality in the country.

According to Rina, with equal participation of men and women in the workforce, the nation’s gross domestic product is expected to grow by 35% over the course of four years.

“A society that encourages men to thrive with empathy and compassion is also one where women are encouraged to shine,” she said.

The virtual conference, which took place earlier today, was organised by NGOs Girls For Girls International and MyProdigy Global to provide a platform for Malaysian and international speakers to discuss issues of women empowerment across the world.