The Progress of Women’s Political Participation in Malaysia comparing with Singapore

Abstract

Malaysia and Singapore and may be geographical neighbors, however, these two countries have not particularly experienced the same paths to the development of women"s political participation. Malaysia has seen a gradual growth in the number of women in parliament while Singapore portrays a significant increase despite a shorter time period as compared to its neighbor. This paper argues that economic growth and education attainment will impact the advancement of women"s political participation in parliament but these two conditions are not sufficient. The analysis suggests that economic growth and education together with a cultural perspective towards women"s social role and strong political parties" will to enhance women"s political participation will ensure better women representation in the political field.