Women, family and community development minister Nancy Shukri said the tribunal, established under the Anti-Sexual Harassment Act 2022, offered a faster and more affordable alternative to the courts.

“This route is more effective than going to court because it is faster and cheaper, taking no more than 60 days,” she said after officiating the Forum Agenda Wanita Negara (FAWN) 2025 here.

She also launched the book 30 Years of the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (Cedaw) Malaysia, highlighting reforms to strengthen women’s rights.

Among the reforms are amendments to the Employment Act 1955, full enforcement of the Anti-Sexual Harassment Act with a dedicated tribunal, appointment of gender focal points across ministries, and a 30% target for women in decision-making positions.

Nancy also announced the mentor panel for the 2025 Women’s Leadership Apprenticeship Programme (Perantis), aimed at developing future women leaders.

She noted that the labour force participation rate for women was 56.3%, still below the 60% target set under the Madani economic framework. By comparison, the rate for men stood at 82%.