The government has introduced a new initiative known as PRISMAnita, a one-stop centre designed to help women access support services for various issues, including domestic violence.
Anwar Ibrahim said the initiative — short for Perantara Rujukan, Intervensi, Sokongan, Maklumat dan Advokasi untuk Wanita — is spearheaded by the Ministry of Women, Family and Community Development through the Department of Women Development.
He explained that the programme aims to provide faster, coordinated and victim-friendly access to assistance for women facing social and personal challenges.
“PRISMAnita functions as a one-stop centre that integrates multiple services under one roof in line with the No Wrong Door Policy, ensuring women can obtain the help they need without bureaucratic barriers,” he said.
Anwar was speaking while officiating the International Women’s Day Celebration 2026 at the Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre on Tuesday.
Services Available Nationwide
According to the prime minister, PRISMAnita services will operate through State Women Development Offices nationwide, enabling women to seek assistance more easily regardless of their location.
The initiative reflects the government’s broader commitment to strengthening institutional support systems for women and ensuring victims of abuse or hardship can obtain immediate help.
Among the dignitaries present at the event were Wan Azizah Wan Ismail, Fadillah Yusof, Nancy Shukri, Deputy Minister Lim Hui Ying, and the ministry’s secretary-general **Maziah Che Yusoff.
Tax Incentives For Housewives Social Security Scheme
In addition to PRISMAnita, Anwar also announced tax incentives for corporate entities sponsoring contributions to the Housewives Social Security Scheme, known as Skim Keselamatan Sosial Suri Rumah (Lindung Kasih).
The scheme, introduced in 2022 under the Social Security Organisation, provides social protection for housewives against domestic accidents and disability while managing household responsibilities.
Under a newly introduced mechanism, the National Welfare Foundation will serve as an intermediary body for companies or parties interested in sponsoring contributions to the scheme.
Sponsors who channel contributions through the foundation will qualify for tax deductions under Subsection 44(6) of the Income Tax Act 1967.
The government is encouraging private companies, corporations, non-governmental organisations and individuals to participate in supporting eligible women through the programme.
Continued Focus On Women Empowerment
Anwar said the Madani government remains committed to empowering women through the National Women Policy and the Women Development Action Plan 2025–2030, which focus on expanding economic opportunities, strengthening social protection and building a more inclusive employment ecosystem.
He noted that the International Women’s Day Celebration 2026, themed “Empowering Women, Strengthening the Nation”, reflects the government’s recognition of women as key drivers in building resilient families, communities and a sustainable nation.
“Women empowerment is not solely the government’s responsibility. It requires a whole-of-nation approach to ensure women continue to receive opportunities and support to contribute meaningfully to national development,” he said.
Awards Recognise Contributions To Women’s Progress
Several awards were also presented during the event to honour individuals and organisations championing women’s welfare and advancement.
These included the Women Icon Award 2026, Women-Friendly Company Award 2026, and the Women Community Empowerment NGO Award 2026.
Women’s Leadership Surpasses Target
Meanwhile, Nancy said Malaysia has made notable progress in advancing women’s participation across various sectors, including economic development, leadership, safety and social wellbeing.
She highlighted that the government aims to ensure at least 30 per cent female representation in decision-making positions.
Statistics from the Public Service Department as of December 2025 showed that women now hold 39.4 per cent of top management positions in the public sector, surpassing the 30 per cent target first set in 2004.
Forum Highlights Women In Creative Industries
Earlier in the day, the National Women Agenda Forum was held as part of the celebration, discussing topics such as women in the creative industry, gender equality in organisations, and building inclusive workplace ecosystems.
Nancy noted that around 1,000 participants, including students, attended the forum.
During the session, renowned fashion designer **Tom Abang Saufi shared his experience of starting his fashion journey from home using limited resources before eventually building a successful business.
His story served as an example that businesses can begin modestly from home before growing into larger ventures through creativity and determination.
Fazura Encourages Women To Believe In Themselves
Actress and entrepreneur Nur Fazura, who is also a strategic partner of the event, encouraged women to remain confident and resilient when pursuing their ambitions.
She said women in business often face the challenge of balancing professional commitments with family responsibilities.
“Challenges will always exist. For many women entrepreneurs, the biggest challenge is managing time, especially when they are also mothers and wives. It requires emotional strength and good household management,” she said.
