28 SUHAKAM i. Discrimination at the workplace The participants highlighted the issue with regard to the discriminatory practice in the hotel and retail sectors in barring Muslim female staff particularly those serving the front desk from wearing hijab at the workplace. The participants recommended the following: • • The government should review the Employment Act 1955 to eliminate all forms of discrimination at the workplace so as to protect the rights of all workers. The government should collaborate with SUHAKAM and nongovernmental organisations (NGOs) to raise greater awareness of women’s rights among all sectors in Malaysia. ii. Sexual Harassment The participants said that many sexual harassment cases, particularly those occurring in the workplace, were unreported because victims did not understand what constitutes sexual harassment. They were also fearful of repercussions from the perpetrator or their employer. They suggested the following actions: • • • The government should provide appropriate platforms or mechanisms for victims to lodge complaints of sexual harassment. Authorities should conduct advocacy programmes to educate the public on sexual harassment and the repercussions if these matters are not properly addressed. The government should ensure full enforcement of existing laws to protect victims of sexual harassment and to ensure effective implementation of CEDAW principles at the domestic level. iii. Gender inequality The participants highlighted the gender gap in promotions and pay. Women are less likely to be promoted to senior positions and are paid at a lower rate than men in the workplace. Furthermore, women also experience workplace bullying and are requested to take on heavy workloads which may adversely affect their overall well-being, particularly their health. In order to mitigate these issues, the participants opined the need for the government to consider the following: • To address the disparity in opportunities for women and men at work by ensuring that senior leadership roles are granted to deserving candidates, irrespective of their gender.