Speaking with the Presidential Communications Office (PCO) on Saturday, she highlighted that many women have access to education and employment early in life but face a double burden of responsibility when they reach marriageable age and have children.
"We are responding by creating a new job model with a structured career path for domestic workers, caretakers, caregivers, and professional nurses, so they have clear professional advancement opportunities," she said.
Tan explained that by providing career paths, ministry programs such as childcare centers can be staffed by certified caregivers, enabling women to remain productive while fulfilling caregiving responsibilities.
"This will create new economic opportunities for women to return to work. Regulatory programs are in place, such as requiring 30 percent female participation and mandating companies to provide at least one childcare center program, so mothers and women can work," she added.
The deputy minister said the government is focusing on the care economy to proactively support women through various initiatives, including creating certified professions with opportunities for career progression.
"It’s about building this economy through empowerment so that women earn income. Those who were previously housewives will now recognize themselves as professionals, allowing financial assistance to be directed to them," Tan said.
She emphasized that when women become independent, financially capable, and have access to quality education, early marriage can be prevented.
"It’s about shifting women from being beneficiaries to becoming active contributors who improve the economy," she said.
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Translator: Lintang, Kenzu
Editor: Anton Santoso
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