The Ministry of Digital, in collaboration with MDEC and DNB, has launched the EmpowerHER Digital 2025 program to equip B40 women with digital skills and market access, fostering economic opportunities in the growing digital sector. This initiative aims to close the gender gap in e-commerce and empower women as innovators in Malaysia’s digital economy.
MALAYSIA, 7 March 2025 – The EmpowerHER Digital 2025 program, an initiative by the Ministry of Digital, is set to revolutionize Malaysia’s digital economy by empowering B40 women with essential digital skills, market access, and business mentorship. Spearheaded by the Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC) and Digital Nasional Berhad (DNB), with the support of SME Corp Malaysia, this initiative is designed to help women generate income and establish sustainable businesses in the digital sector.
Recognizing the urgent need to bridge the digital divide, the program offers interactive workshops, industry insights, and a mini exhibition, where participants can learn about digital business strategies, online branding, financing options, and e-commerce market access. Key industry players, including Shopee, TikTok, CGC Digital, and Pixlr, have joined forces to provide expert guidance and opportunities.
Driving Inclusivity in the Digital Economy
In his opening speech, Minister of Digital YB Gobind Singh Deo highlighted the necessity of expanding this program nationwide to reach more women, especially those in rural areas.
“Digital transformation must be inclusive and accessible to all, particularly the B40 community. EmpowerHER Digital plays a vital role in ensuring Malaysian women are not just digitally literate but also competitive in the fast-growing digital economy,” he stated.
MDEC’s CEO, Anuar Fariz Fadzil, reinforced this vision, describing EmpowerHER Digital as a movement rather than just a training program.“This initiative is about building a sustainable support ecosystem where women are not only technology users but also key innovators in the digital economy,” he said.
Closing the Gender Gap in E-Commerce
The program also features inspiring talks and experience-sharing sessions from successful entrepreneurs, including Amutha Subramaniam (Founder of Hers Manufacturing), Wei Yein (Co-Founder of Craftiviti), and Puan Nur Adila Binti Manshor (Founder of Rayhanah Malaysia). These industry leaders shared their journeys in building digital businesses and leveraging technology to enhance competitiveness.
According to Budget 2021 data, the gender gap in e-commerce remains significant, with 654,530 male sellers compared to just 280,100 female sellers. This disparity underscores the importance of initiatives like EmpowerHER Digital 2025, which encourage more women to participate in digital entrepreneurship.
With government and private sector collaboration, this program is poised to enhance the competitiveness of B40 women, drive economic stability, and create lasting change for individuals, families, and communities.
