Is Making Your Organisation a Workplace for All Truly a Long Shot?
29 Mar 2023 | Gamuda Berhad

The first step is to embrace Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI)

As we strive to build a world free from bias, discrimination, and disparity, there is a growing need to prioritise equal access to opportunities and resources. But is equal opportunity enough?

The answer is no. Only when equity and equality are present in a workplace can there be true fairness.

Why is DEI seen as one of the main factors in creating equality in the workplace?

DEI policies encompass equality and promote an inclusive and non-discriminatory workplace. It is all about appreciating the individual differences of co-workers on an equal basis, embracing diversity and bringing together an ideal workplace for all groups of people.

What can an organisation do to move the needle on DEI for an inclusive workplace?

Give diverse employees equitable promotions and maintain diverse representation in executive positions
Ensure all employees, regardless of age, gender, or ability, receive equal pay for the same job and equitable compensation
Provide a broader range of targeted incentives
Award female students with scholarships focusing on STEM
Make parental leave accessible to everyone

Let’s go deeper

It’s crucial for organisations to learn more about DEI and take the necessary steps to ensure it is practised within the workplace. In conjunction with International Women’s Day 2023, we sat down with Gamuda Board of Director, YTM Raja Dato’ Seri Eleena, to hear her take on this.

 

GWEN for women empowerment

Networking opportunities
Mentoring and coaching programmes
Support to balance career and personal needs
Training and development

With GWEN in place, today we have 43% women on the board, 31% women in management and 36% women in the workforce.

Enabling Academy for adults with autism

82% graduates secured jobs
76 candidates have been trained
1st in Malaysia to publish an Employment Transition Programme Trainer’s Manual
188 partner companies
The Enabling Academy equips trainees with the relevant soft skills and practical job training essential for employability.

In a nutshell, equality and equity are two sides to the same coin. Understanding equality and equity and fitting together these aspects is the key to achieving a diverse and progressive working environment. The way to go moving forward – immerse ourselves as the agents of change and embrace equity for the benefit of everyone.