dobiQueen advocates for addressing gender inequality and mental health challenges within the B40 community, proposing policy reforms that promote shared household responsibilities and support for working mothers. The company aligns its initiatives with the Government’s Ekonomi MADANI framework, aiming to enhance the quality of life for Malaysians.
16 October 2024 – In its pre-budget statement, the Ministry of Finance (MoF) outlined ambitious plans to restructure the Malaysian economy, aiming for greater competitiveness, a higher value of economic activities, improved quality of life, and stronger governance. The Government’s Ekonomi MADANI framework emphasizes inclusivity and economic resilience, with a core pillar focused on raising the standard of living for all Malaysians through respectable job opportunities and equal access to resources.
As a prominent player in the self-service laundry industry, dobiQueen supports these efforts and has put forth a wishlist focused on gender inequality, the double burden on women, and mental health support, particularly for the B40 community.
Tackling Gender Inequality and the Double Burden on Women
A recent report by the Khazanah Research Institute (KRI) highlighted the stark gender disparity in Malaysia’s workforce. Although 52% of women have achieved tertiary education, only 37.7% participate in the labor force, with many citing household chores and family responsibilities as significant barriers. This imbalance, driven by traditional gender roles, restricts women’s career opportunities and burdens them with both professional and household responsibilities.
dobiQueen, recognizing these challenges, conducted its own consumer survey and found that 75% of its laundromat users are women, with an equal split between homemakers and those in full-time employment. The company is committed to alleviating some of these pressures by offering services such as Express Same Day Delivery and Drop-off & Pickup, providing women with more free time by easing their household burdens.
According to Nini Tan, Co-founder and Executive Director of dobiQueen, societal norms around gender roles must evolve to support shared household responsibilities. She also advocates for policies that enhance affordable childcare and parental leave options, which would encourage greater female workforce participation.
Mental Health Support for the B40 Community
The B40 demographic, representing Malaysia’s lowest 40% of household incomes, faces unique challenges, particularly regarding mental health. Many in this group are vulnerable to conditions such as anxiety and depression, exacerbated by economic stress.
dobiQueen has taken steps to provide employment opportunities for the B40 community, including single mothers, by offering flexible job options and performance-based incentives. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the company offered jobs to individuals affected by the Movement Control Order (MCO), employing eight single mothers and providing them with financial assistance.
Nini emphasized the importance of public awareness campaigns to reduce the stigma surrounding mental health and called for increased government funding for programs that empower working mothers. This, she believes, would not only improve the quality of life for these women but also contribute to the development of resilient children capable of competing globally.
In alignment with the broader goals of Ekonomi MADANI, dobiQueen continues to raise awareness of mental health issues and support women through initiatives such as purchasing gifts from NGOs that empower women, contributing to the development of a more inclusive economy.
As Malaysia moves forward with Budget 2025, dobiQueen remains hopeful that these initiatives will help build a better future for all, ensuring equitable opportunities and an improved quality of life for every Malaysian.
