Gender Diversity in Malaysia and RCEP Economies - Three Analytical Essays

This thesis examines gender diversity in Malaysia and RCEP economies, the barriers that persist, and its benefits for firm performance. It comprises three stand-alone but interrelated studies: the first investigates traditional anti-egalitarian gender role attitudes that hinder women’s employment; the second assesses how gender diversity enhances firm performance and how fair remuneration strengthens this effect; and the third explores how gender diversity drives environmental innovation that further improves performance. The findings underscore the need for a more holistic and strategic framework that integrates employment equality, diversity initiatives, fair compensation, and eco-innovation to foster a more inclusive and resilient economy.