SDG #5: Gender Equality
Achieve gender equality and empower all women and girls through education, leadership, and equal opportunities in all aspects of university life
0
Active Initiatives
31
Publications
2020–2025
0
Future Goals
Our Impact
5,000 + women empowered
Beneficiaries
5,00 + women in leadership roles
Leadership
60% female STEM graduates
Stem Graduates
UTAR Initiatives
Women in STEM with 60% female enrolment in related programme.
Gender equality workshops conducted monthly across all campuses.
Female leadership development programme training 500+ women annually.
Safe campus initiatives ensuring harassment-free environment.
Childcare facilities supporting working mothers and female students.
Mentorship programme connecting female students with industry leaders.
Gender Equality @ UTAR
Building an inclusive academic community where everyone thrives regardless of gender
52%
Female Students
45%
Female Faculty
Our Commitment to Gender Equality
At Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman (UTAR), gender equality is not just a policy—it's a fundamental value that shapes our institutional culture and drives our commitment to creating an inclusive academic environment. Since our establishment in 2002, we have consistently worked to eliminate gender-based barriers and promote equal opportunities for all members of our university community.
Our comprehensive approach to gender equality encompasses every aspect of university life, from admissions and academic programs to career development and leadership opportunities. We recognize that true equality requires proactive measures, supportive policies, and a culture that celebrates diversity while ensuring fair treatment for everyone, regardless of gender identity or expression.
Through evidence-based policies, innovative programs, and continuous monitoring, UTAR has achieved significant milestones in gender representation across all levels of our institution. Our efforts extend beyond our campus boundaries, influencing communities and contributing to Malaysia's broader gender equality goals through research, outreach, and advocacy.
Our Core Gender Equality Principles
Equal Opportunities
Ensuring fair access to education, employment, and advancement opportunities for all genders through transparent processes and merit-based selection criteria
Safe & Inclusive Environment
Creating a harassment-free campus where everyone fells safe, respected, and valued, with zero tolerance for discrimination based on gender identity or expression
Leadership Development
Actively promoting women and underrepresented genders into leadership positions while providing mentorship and professional development opportunities
Key Achievements
60%
Women in STEM Programs
40%
Female Leadership Positions
100%
Maternity and Paternity Support
Zero
Tolerance for Harassment
Our Strategic Approach
Policy Framework
Comprehensive policies covering recruitment, promotion, maternity/paternity leave, anti-harassment and all gender rights protection
Continuous Monitoring
Regular assessment of gender representation, pay equity, and workplace satisfaction through data-driven analysis and transparent reporting
Community Engagement
Extending our gender equality initiatives beyond campus through community outreach, research partnerships, and advocacy programs
UTAR Gender Equality Policies
Comprehensive policies ensuring equal opportunities and protection for all genders at UTAR
Women Applications & Entry Policy
This policy initiatives is to support women's access to education and enrollment
Key Principles
- Gender-neutral admission criteria with no discrimination
- STEM encouragement programme
- Scholarship supporting women’s education
- Pathway for women returning to education
Implementation Measures
- Outreach and awareness programmes
- Inclusive admission support
- Scholarship and financial aid for women
- Monitoring and reporting mechanism
Comprehensive Maternity Policy
Supportive policies and facilities for pregnant students and staff
Key Principles
- Supportive and inclusive environment
- Equal employment and academic opportunities
- Adequate leave and flexibility
- Health, safety, and confidentiality
Implementation Measures
- 90 days paid leave with job protection
- Dedicated lactation rooms across all campuses
- Academic accomodation with flexible schedules and deadline
- Monitoring and review mechanism
Comprehensive Paternity Policy
Inclusive policies supporting fathers and male caregivers
Key Principles
- Promotion of shared parental responsibility
- Equal opportunity and non-discrimination
- Work-life balance and family well-being
- Respect, confidentiality, and inclusivity
Implementation Measures
- 7 days paid leave with job protection
- Flexible work arrangments
- Academic accomodation with flexible schedules and deadline
- Monitoring and review mechanism
Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Anti-Discrimination Policy
Comprehensive policies ensuring equal treatment and support for all individuals
Key Principles
- Respect for diversity
- Commitment to equity
- Inclusive learning and working environment
- Zero tolerance for discrimination and harassment
Implementation Measures
- Policy awareness and training
- Inclusive recruitment and admission practices
- Reporting and suppor mechanisms
- Monitoring, evaluation, and continuous improvement
Policies Protecting Those Reporting Discrimination
Comprehensive protection for individuals reporting misconduct and wrongdoing
Key Principles
- Integrity and accountability
- Protection of whistleblowers
- Confidentiality and fair process
- Commitment to ethical culture
Implementation Measures
- Reporting channels at Web2
- Transparent invstigation procedures
- Whistleblower protection mechanisms
- Awareness, trained officers and support services
Initiative Highlights
Advancing Women's Access to Higher Education
Systematically measure and track women's application and acceptance rates to promote gender equity in higher education by identifying barriers, addressing disparities, and fostering equal opportunities for academic advancement.
50%
Women Application in 2024
100%
Acceptance Rate
- Monitor women's university application and acceptance
- Identify barriers limiting women's educational access
- Implement inclusive policies and scholarship support
- Promote mentorship and leadership opportunities for women
Enhancing Women's Access to Education and Opportunity
Implement women’s access schemes offering mentoring, scholarships, and support initiatives to promote equal opportunities, enhance educational participation, and empower women to achieve success in higher education and beyond.
100%
Women Access Schemes
0%
Barrier for Advancement
- Mentorship programmes supporting female students
- Equal access to scholarships and awards for female students
- Provide guidance, leadership training, and career development
- Promote inclusive policies promoting gender equality
Women in STEM Excellence Programme
Comprehensive initiatives to increase female participation in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics fields through mentorship, scholarships, and specialized support programmes.
60%
Female STEM Enrollment
12,000+
Women Supported
- Dedicated STEM scholarships for women students
- Female faculty mentorship programs
- Industry partnerships for internships and careers
- Women in engineering leadership development
Comprehensive Childcare Support for Students and Faculty
On campus childcare facilities and support services enabling working mothers and female students to pursue their academic and professional goals without compromising family responsibilities.
5+
Children Supported
2
Campus Locations
- Lactation rooms
- Offer flexible schedules supporting parenting responsibilities
- Introduce workshops and counseling for student parents
- Provide financial support for staff children's university education
Work-Life Balance & Flexible Work Initiative
Progressive workplace policies supporting work-life balance, particularly benefiting women with family responsibilities through flexible schedules, time-off, and family-friendly benefits.
85%
Staff Satisfaction Rate
1,200+
Staff Benefiting
- Flexible working hours and time-off
- Employee wellness and stress-management programmes
- Provide childcare and parental leave benefits
- Promote supportive work-life balance culture
Female Leadership Development Initiative
Comprehensive leadership training programme designed to develop and advance women into leadership positions within academia, industry, and community organizations.
500+
Women Leaders Trained
45%
Female Faculty Leadership
- Executive leadership training programs
- Mentorship with senior female leaders
- Public speaking and presentation skills
- Networking and professional development
Women's Health & Wellness Initiative
Specialized healthcare services offered by UTAR Hospital addressing women's unique health needs, including reproductive health, mental wellness, and preventive care programs designed specifically for female students and staff.
2,500+
Women Served Annually
12
Specialized Programmes
- Women's reproductive health services
- Breast and cervical cancer screening programs
- Mental health support for women-specific issues
- Nutrition and wellness counseling
Women Entrepreneurship Development
Comprehensive business incubation and entrepreneurship support tailored for women, offering startup funding, mentorship, training, and resources to empower female entrepreneurs in launching, managing, and growing successful women-led business sustainably.
2
Women Entrepreneurs
RM 10,000
Funding Supported
- Business plan development and mentorship
- Access to seed funding and investment networks
- Women-only networking events and conferences
- Legal and financial advisory services
International Women's Leadership Exchange
Global exchange program connecting female students and faculty with international institutions, promoting cross-cultural learning and global perspectives on gender equality and women's empowerment.
25
Partner Universities
300+
Participants Engaged
- Student exchange programmes with top universities
- Faculty research collaboration opportunities
- International women's leadership conferences
- Cross-cultural gender studies research projects
Gender Research & Policy Development
Dedicated research center focusing on gender equality studies, policy analysis, and evidence-based recommendations for improving gender equality in education, workplaces, and society.
31
Research Publications
RM 100 K
Funding Secured
- Gender equality research and data analysis
- Policy development and advocacy
- International collaboration on gender studies
- Training programmes for gender equality practitioners
Gender Equality Monitoring
Digital platform for tracking gender equality metrics, reporting incidents, and accessing resources, ensuring transparency and accountability in all gender equality initiatives.
15,000+
Platform Users
100%
Issue Resolution Rate in 7 Days
- Track gender equality metrics through digital platform
- Enable confidential reporting of gender-based incidents
- Provide access to gender equality resources
- Ensure transparency and accountability in initiatives
Women's Academic Progress: From Entry to Graduation
Track women’s academic progress from entry to graduation to identify challenges, improve retention, and promote equal opportunities for successful degree completion and lifelong educational empowerment.
100%
Graduate on time
0
Gap Compared to Men
- Track women's enrolment, retention, and graduation rates
- Identify barriers affecting women's academic success
- Provide mentoring, counseling, and academic support
- Strengthen institutional support systems for women students
Sustainability Activities Highlights
Activities and achievements from UTAR's commitment to gender equality
UTAR students inspired by perspectives on AI and women's empowerment
3 September 2025
The Centre for Media and Communication Research (CMCR) and the Centre for Learning and Teaching (CLT) organised a talk on Value-Based Education in the Age of AI at UTAR Sungai Long Campus, featuring Dr Paulachan KJ. He highlighted embedding values, ethics, and human creativity alongside AI, addressing risks like bias and privacy issues while promoting adaptability and critical thinking. On 4 September, he discussed Women's Empowerment and Language Proficiency, showcasing Kerala’s education and initiatives driving gender equality, leadership, and inclusive development.
UTAR and PopoMama Sdn Bhd collaborate to advance women's health and nutrition research
30 July 2025
UTAR strengthened its research network by signing a memorandum of understanding with PopoMama Sdn Bhd, focusing on women’s health, nutrition, and traditional medicine. The collaboration enables joint research, scientific validation, and knowledge exchange, leveraging UTAR’s Centre for Traditional and Complementary Medicine. Students and researchers gain hands-on experience while contributing to innovative, evidence-based health solutions. This partnership advances academic-industry collaboration, promotes wellness, and enhances practical applications of traditional remedies for healthier communities.
WEEF 2025 empowers women entrepreneurs with inspiring insights through knowledge-sharing
7 March 2025
The Women Entrepreneurship & Empowerment Forum (WEEF) 2025 at UTAR Sungai Long Campus brought together aspiring and established women entrepreneurs for inspiration, networking, and knowledge-sharing. Organised by the UTAR Alumni Association, Chancellery Office, and Department of Alumni Relations, the forum featured distinguished speakers offering insights on leadership, business strategies, digital innovation, and resilience. It empowered women to embrace challenges, pursue financial independence, and contribute meaningfully to business and economic growth.
Professor Dr Cheah Phaik Kin appointed to the Advisory Board at University of Virginia's Center for Public Safety and Justice
3 February 2025
Prof Dr Cheah Phaik Kin of UTAR’s Faculty of Arts and Social Science has been appointed to the Board of Advisors at the University of Virginia’s Center for Public Safety and Justice (2024–2026). Recognised for her expertise in public safety and volunteer policing, she brings extensive research, practical experience, and global insights. Her role includes strategic guidance, mentoring, and fostering initiatives to enhance community resilience, bridge research and practice, and advance innovative public safety strategies worldwide.
Workshop on enhancing workplace diversity prepares students for global careers
4 December 2024
Students from the Cross Cultural Management course attended the “Bridging Cultures: Enhancing Workplace Diversity” workshop at UTAR Sungai Long Campus. Organised by the Department of International Business, Faculty of Accountancy and Management, the session featured speakers Mr Nicholas Hooi and Ms Chia K Rou, who emphasised the importance of cultural intelligence. Through quizzes and group discussions, students explored biases and strategies for inclusivity. The workshop inspired participants to champion diversity, equipping them with practical skills to foster inclusive workplaces in their future careers.
FCI student's motion graphics shine on global stage
3 December 2024
UTAR student Law Khor Nee won the Visual Category Award (Student Category) at the Kyoto Global Design Awards 2024, recognising her innovative project Webflow. A third-year Graphic Design and Multimedia student at the Faculty of Creative Industries, Law impressed judges with her user-friendly web design concept, highlighting accessibility, creativity, and societal impact. She credited her industrial training, supervisor Mr Lee Kin Keong, and family support for her success. The award underscores her talent and potential to shape the global design landscape.
Veteran media professional shares skills to unlock voice and language charm
26 November 2024
Ms Eeva Chang Mei Hsiang, a distinguished media professional, led the Develop Your Voice and Language Charm webinar organised by UTAR’s Centre for Corporate and Community Development (CCCD) and Faculty of Creative Industries (FCI) on 26 November 2024. She shared her award-winning expertise in broadcasting, media management, and talent development, offering participants practical techniques to enhance vocal appeal and communication. Highlighting female achievement, Ms Chang’s career—from winning Taiwan’s Golden Bell Award to mentoring top Asian singers—served as an inspiring example of leadership and excellence in media.
UTAR forum educates 400+ attendees on tackling harassment and cyberbullying
12 November 2024
UTAR’s Harassment and Cyberbully Forum, organised by the Centre for Healthy Minds and Wellbeing in collaboration with the Department of Student Affairs, was held at Sungai Long Campus. The forum addressed harassment and cyberbullying, covering legal rights, prevention strategies, and support resources. Speakers included Ms Tan Kim Kiek, Mr Leo Lourdes, and Ms Ariel Lim, moderated by CFS academic Cik Nurazrin Mohd Aidil. Through presentations and interactive discussions, over 400 participants, including students and staff, gained knowledge and tools to foster safer, more respectful online and offline environments.
LKCFES and FICT students secure second prize at MCMC Datathon 2024
4 November 2024
A team of UTAR students, including female members Jacynth Tham Ming Quan and Yam Zi Ying, achieved remarkable success at the MCMC Datathon 2024, winning second prize in the tertiary student category and earning the Best Presenter Award. The competition challenged participants to develop innovative solutions using Big Data, Machine Learning, and AI. The team’s achievement highlights gender equality in STEM, showcasing women as capable leaders and contributors in technology-driven projects, while demonstrating the power of collaboration and technical expertise in solving real-world digital challenges.
UTAR academic participates in 24th animation academy awards by Beijing Film academy
30 October 2024
From 30 October to 3 November 2024, UTAR showcased its commitment to gender equality in animation education at the 24th Animation Academy Awards, joining universities from Europe, Oceania, and Asia. Dr Cynthia Lau Pui-Shan, a leading female academic, presented From Folklore to Futurism, highlighting Malaysian animation trends blending tradition with innovation, and was appointed Visiting Professor at BFA. UTAR engaged in discussions on collaborative initiatives, including seminars and faculty exchanges. The event reinforced UTAR’s dedication to fostering inclusive, creative education and promoting women leaders in the AI-driven animation industry.
UTAR Sungai Long Toastmasters Club achieves president's distinguished club status
20 October 2024
The UTAR Sungai Long Toastmasters Club earned the President’s Distinguished Club award for the 2023-2024 term, celebrating excellence in leadership and communication. Represented by Club Advisor DTM Dr Saraswathy Thurairaj, President TM Thong Meng Seng, and VP Education TM Teo Yi Qi, the award reflects the members’ dedication to personal and professional growth. Notably, DTM Dr Saraswathy, a women leader, was also recognised as Select Distinguished Area E4 Director, underscoring her pivotal role in nurturing confident, impactful leaders and promoting a culture of excellence.
Webinar highlights communication strategies to support students' menstrual health
14 September 2024
UTAR Centre for Modern Languages and Literature (CMLL), in collaboration with the Endometriosis Association of Malaysia (MyEndosis), hosted a webinar titled “The Language of Support: Using Communication Strategies for Educators in Supporting Students’ Menstrual Health Awareness.” The speakers addressed physical and mental health challenges related to menstruation and provided practical communication strategies for educators. The webinar aimed to raise awareness, dismantle stigma, and equip educators to support students’ menstrual health and overall well-being effectively.
UTAR female volleyball team crowned champion
4 August 2024
The UTAR female volleyball team triumphed as champions at the Kejohanan Bola Tampar Wanita Liga Sukan Komuniti Peringkat Daerah Kampar 2024, showcasing talent, dedication, and teamwork. The tournament promoted inclusivity, sportsmanship, and health among female athletes aged 15 and above. By providing a platform for women to develop skills, embrace diversity, and compete at higher levels, the event reinforced empowerment, confidence, and leadership, motivating the team to excel in future competitions while inspiring broader participation in sports and personal growth.
UTAR scholars shine at Malaysia Grand Invention Expo (MaGIEx) 2024
1 August 2024
UTAR’s project, “The Role of Flexible Work Arrangements and Psychological Well-Being in Shaping Job Performance among Women in the Banking Sector,” received an award at MaGIEx 2024. Led by FBF Master of Philosophy student Tan Yu Xian with lecturers Dr Seow Ai Na, Dr Lam Siew Yong, and Dr Tan Chi Hau, the study explored how flexible work arrangements impact psychological well-being and enhance job performance among women in banking. The research highlights the importance of supportive workplace practices and HR policies in promoting employee productivity and well-being.
Women's health focus: Tackling infections at she-health webinar
17 July 2024
UTAR’s webinar “She-Health: Empowering Women Against Infections,” organised by the Dr Wu Lien-Teh Centre for Research in Communicable Disease, educated women on common infections and their prevention. Assoc Prof Dr Khine Pwint Phyu detailed symptoms, diagnostics, and protective measures, enhancing participants’ understanding of women’s health. The session included interactive Q&A, allowing attendees to clarify doubts and gain practical advice. By raising awareness and promoting informed health decisions, the webinar empowered women to take control of their wellbeing and foster healthier lifestyles.
Sports for a cause: Public relations students unite for breast cancer awareness
20 April 2024
“The Tale of Pink Ribbon” was initiated by Group 1 of the UTAR Public Relations Corporate Social Responsibility (PR CSR) Project 2024, under the guidance of Ms Diong, the Project Advisor. Comprising 53 Public Relations students, the project collaborated with the National Cancer Society Malaysia (NCSM), Majlis Kanser Nasional (MAKNA), AEON Mall Kinta City, and Perak Transit Bhd. The initiative aimed to address challenges faced by individuals with breast cancer in Perak, raise awareness, advocate for early detection, promote preventive healthcare, and provide educational outreach to the community.
PR students collaborate with NCSM and MAKNA to raise awareness about breast cancer through their CSR project
5 April 2024
“Get Screened Today!” was the message conveyed in The Tale of Pink Ribbon, a Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) project initiated by 53 Bachelor of Communication (Honours) Public Relations students, in collaboration with the National Cancer Society Malaysia (NCSM) and Majlis Kanser Nasional (MAKNA). The project highlighted the challenges faced by breast cancer patients in Malaysia. All funds raised and revenues collected were used to cover project expenses and to improve the day-to-day lives of the targeted group.
UTAR PR students promote breast cancer screening awareness through "The Tale of Pink Ribbon" flash mob
20 March 2024
Fifty-three students from UTAR’s Bachelor of Communication (Honours) in Public Relations programme organised a flash mob at the Kampar Ramadhan Bazaar in collaboration with the National Cancer Society Malaysia (NCSM), Majlis Kanser Nasional (MAKNA), AEON Mall Kinta City, and Perak Transit. The event aimed to educate the public on breast cancer screening, promote early detection, raise awareness, and encourage preventive healthcare practices, while engaging the community through a creative and impactful performance.
TalentCorp's 2024 Women Career Convention panel discussion on Malaysia's aging demographics
9 March 2024
Ms Lim Guat Yen, Director of UTAR’s Centre for Corporate and Community Development, was a panellist at the 2024 Women Career Convention on Community-Based Care Ecosystem and ESG Initiatives, held on 9 March 2024 at Nexus Bangsar South. The event, organised by TalentCorp, focused on empowering women re-entering the workforce and retirees in the aged care sector. Ms Lim highlighted the importance of human capital development, advocating tailored courses, re-entry initiatives, and empowerment programmes, reinforcing UTAR’s commitment to gender equality and women leadership in community care.
Women in Science forum 2024: Lab to market
5 March 2024
Women in Science Forum 2024: Lab to Market, organised by UTAR Centre for Cancer Research (CCR), Centre for Research in Traditional Chinese Medicine (CRTCM), Centre for Research on Non-Communicable Diseases (CRNCD), and the Organisation Women in Science (OWIS), was held at UTAR Sungai Long Campus on 5 March 2024. Supported by the Malaysian Research Accelerator for Technology & Innovation (MRANTI), the forum served as a platform for dialogue, collaboration, and knowledge exchange. It facilitated discussions and presentations exploring best practices, challenges, and opportunities in the journey from lab to market.
Assoc Prof Dr Cheah Phaik Kin inspires students at the Op Didik and Crime Prevention Programme
27 June 2023
Assoc Prof Dr Cheah Phaik Kin from UTAR’s Faculty of Arts and Social Science delivered a talk on “Careers as an Academic and Volunteer Police Officer” at SMK Dato’ Zulkifli Muhammad, Slim River, as part of the Op Didik & Crime Prevention Programme. She shared insights from her dual career, motivating students to pursue higher education and contribute to community safety. The programme, supported by PDRM and PERKESO, included workshops, exhibitions, and interactive activities fostering leadership, awareness, and social responsibility among youth.
Talk by Department of women development calls for nurturing a safer society
13 July 2023
UTAR Kampar Campus and the Crime Prevention Society organised a talk on harassment awareness and consent, led by Assistant Director Eugene Teh Soon Heng from the Women Empowerment Division. Participants learned about Act 840, factors contributing to harassment, and preventive measures. The session also explained tribunal functions and possible penalties, while interactive discussions encouraged questions and shared concerns. The programme promoted understanding, safety, and a culture of respect and accountability among students.
LKC FES student wins women in tech award at Huawei ICT competition Asia Pacific 2022-2023
17 March 2023
A three-student team from UTAR, led by Ir Ts Dr Tham Mau Luen, competed in the Huawei ICT Competition Asia Pacific 2022–2023 Regional Final in Jakarta. The team included Ho Wei Liang, Tay Bee Sim, and Yong Hong Long. Tay won the Women in Tech award under the Cloud Track category. Previously national champions, the team now qualifies for the Global Final in China. The competition fosters ICT talent development and industry-education integration across the Asia Pacific region.
Academics awarded MINDS lifetime scientific research achievements award and young woman scientist award
4 March 2023
Emeritus Prof Dr Boo Nem Yun received the Malaysian Invention and Design Society Lifetime Scientific Research Achievements Award 2023 and was named Malaysian Woman Scientist, while Assoc Prof Dr Lam Sze Mun co-received the Young Woman Scientist Award 2023. Both will present at the 4th National Conference on Contribution to National Development by Malaysian Women Scientists and Inventors, celebrating and inspiring women’s achievements in science, technology & research.
Relevant Research Centres
Centre for Accounting, Banking & Finance
Centre for Media and Communication Research
Future Goals & Vision
- Achieve 50% of female representation in all leadership positions.
- Launch women entrepreneurship incubator.
- Enhance mentorship and training opportunities for women in STEM.
- Expand international collaboration on gender equality initiatives.
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