Title: Women and the media in Malaysia.

POPLINE Document Number: 047987

Author(s):

Adnan MH

Source citation:

MEDIA ASIA, 1987;14(4):194-203.

Abstract:

The contributions of and portrayal of women in the Malaysian media are summarized here in detail. Women's access to training in journalism and education is on average better than that of men. There are 3 communications departments in institutions of higher learning in Malaysia, and all enroll more women than men, probably because of women's better language skills and desire to enter a "glamourous" profession. Women's participation in journalism, except for women's magazines, is much more limited, especially at higher levels. Women's abilities are not lacking, as shown by the number of awards Malaysian women journalists have won, but it is felt that women are not assertive, cannot work late or night shifts, cannot be transferred, because of family and domestic obligations. Perhaps journalism curricula should offer women extra courses in effective family management, public speaking or human relations, or assign cadet journalists women mentors. In Malaysia women are generally portrayed in print, electronic and advertising media as either decorative, foolish, consumption driven, or sex objects. Exploitative poses predominate in ads for male markets, such as automobiles and liquor. Sexual roles for women and girls are depicted as those of subservient or silly housewife or in other negative or traditional roles.

Keywords:

Malaysia
Behavior
Female Role
Women's Status
Socioeconomic Factors
Employment Status
IEC
Communication
Mass Media
Broadcast Media
Television
Printed Media
Magazines
Newspapers
Education
Schools
Universities
Women
Asia, Southeastern
Asia
Developing Countries
Social Behavior
Economic Factors
Socioeconomic Status
Program Activities
Programs
Organization and Administration
Demographic Factors
Population