Empowering Women in Finance: The Launch of investED for Returning Women

In a significant move to support women re-entering the workforce, the Securities Commission Malaysia (SC) has unveiled the investED for Returning Women program. This initiative aims to provide training and resources for women who have taken career breaks, particularly those looking to restart their careers in the capital market.

A Timely Initiative

Officiated by Deputy Finance Minister Lim Hui Ying, the program was announced in October and has already garnered considerable interest, with over 600 applications from women aged in their mid-30s to late 40s. Many applicants hail from sectors such as oil and gas, banking, finance, and insurance. The primary reasons cited for their career breaks include family responsibilities and caregiving, highlighting a common challenge faced by many women in the workforce.

Program Structure: Two Phases of Empowerment

The investED for Returning Women program is structured into two distinct phases: Refresh and Reskill.

• Refresh focuses on building confidence and reintroducing participants to workplace culture. This phase is crucial for easing the transition back into a professional environment, helping women regain their footing after a career hiatus.

• Reskill aims to update participants’ technical and market knowledge, ensuring they are well-equipped to navigate the evolving landscape of the capital market.

Upon completion, graduates will receive a certificate and an RM2,000 incentive, providing both recognition and financial support as they embark on their renewed career journeys.

Learning and Mentorship Opportunities

The program is modeled after the SC’s successful investED Leadership Programme. It combines classroom learning with mentorship and industry placements, creating a comprehensive support system for participants. This multifaceted approach not only enhances knowledge but also fosters valuable connections within the industry.

Industry Support and Collaboration

The initiative is backed by several prominent organizations, including the 30% Club Malaysia, LeadWomen, the Securities Industry Development Corporation, PwC Malaysia, and Talent Corporation Malaysia. These partners play a vital role in designing training modules and facilitating placements, ensuring that the program is both relevant and impactful.

Addressing Gender Representation in Leadership

SC Chairman Dato’ Mohammad Faiz Azmi emphasized the importance of this initiative in the context of gender representation in leadership roles. As of October 1, 2025, women hold over 34% of board positions among the top 100 listed companies on Bursa Malaysia. With the capital market’s increasing sophistication and a notable talent shortage, the program seeks to leverage the experience and expertise of returning professionals to enhance the market’s depth and resilience.

Pathways to Employment

Participants in the program will receive guidance from industry professionals, providing them with insights and support as they navigate their career transitions. Additionally, the program offers access to potential employment opportunities through partner firms, further facilitating the re-entry process into the workforce.

Conclusion

The investED for Returning Women program represents a significant step towards empowering women in the financial sector. By addressing the unique challenges faced by those returning to work after a career break, this initiative not only supports individual aspirations but also contributes to a more diverse and resilient capital market in Malaysia.