Malaysia & Indonesia: Gender Equality Progress Stalls – New Study

Traditional Views on Women’s Roles Persist in Malaysia and Indonesia, New Poll Finds

A new global study reveals that Malaysia and Indonesia exhibit the highest levels of agreement with the statement that “a wife should always obey her husband.” The findings, released March 23, 2026, by Ipsos and the Global Institute for Women’s Leadership at King’s College London, highlight enduring traditional views on gender roles within both Southeast Asian nations. The poll, timed to coincide with International Women’s Day on March 5, surveyed over 23,000 people across 29 countries, including the United States, the United Kingdom, and Singapore.

Highest Rates of Agreement in the Region

The study found that 66% of respondents in Indonesia and 60% in Malaysia agreed with the statement about wifely obedience – significantly higher than the rates observed in other countries surveyed. Further reinforcing these traditional perspectives, 67% of Indonesian respondents and 58% of Malaysian respondents indicated that husbands should have the final say in key household decisions. These results raise questions about the pace of progress toward gender equality in these rapidly developing nations.

Cultural Context and Eastern Traditions

Researchers suggest that these attitudes are not entirely unexpected, given the deep-rooted cultural norms and customs prevalent in Indonesia and Malaysia. Mohd Faizal Musa, a research fellow at the Institute of the Malay World and Civilisation at the National University of Malaysia, explained that these norms are often intertwined with Islamic teachings. However, he cautioned against simplistic comparisons with Western concepts of conservatism and modernity, noting the inherent limitations of applying universal frameworks to diverse cultural contexts.

What the Poll Measured: A Deeper Look

The Ipsos study wasn’t simply about obedience; it delved into broader perceptions of gender roles and the acceptance of equal rights. The survey asked respondents about their views on whether efforts to achieve gender equality had “gone far enough.” Notably, 64% of respondents in Singapore agreed with this statement, a figure that suggests a different trajectory in attitudes toward gender equality compared to its regional neighbors. You can find more information about Ipsos’s 2026 expectations for the Asia Pacific region here.

Confirmed vs. Unclear: What We Know and What We Don’t

While the study clearly establishes a higher prevalence of traditional views in Malaysia and Indonesia, several details remain unclear. The report did not specify the demographic breakdown of respondents within each country – for example, age, education level, or religious affiliation – which could provide valuable insights into the nuances of these attitudes. It also remains unclear how these views translate into actual behaviors and power dynamics within households.

A Historical Perspective on Gender Roles in Southeast Asia

Traditional gender roles have long been a feature of societies in Southeast Asia, often shaped by a combination of indigenous customs, religious beliefs, and historical factors. In both Malaysia and Indonesia, patriarchal structures have historically placed men in positions of authority, while women were primarily responsible for domestic duties and childcare. While significant progress has been made in recent decades to promote gender equality – including increased access to education and employment opportunities for women – deeply ingrained cultural norms continue to exert a strong influence.

Economic Confidence and Gender Attitudes in the Region

Interestingly, recent data suggests a generally positive economic outlook in Malaysia, Indonesia, and Singapore. A January 29, 2026 report from Ipsos indicated that around 75% of respondents in these three countries described the current economic situation as good. This report highlights a sense of “conditional confidence” across the Asia Pacific region, but it doesn’t directly address the relationship between economic optimism and attitudes toward gender roles. It’s possible that economic stability does not necessarily translate into a shift in traditional values.

Implications for Gender Equality Initiatives

The findings of the Ipsos study underscore the challenges facing efforts to advance gender equality in Malaysia and Indonesia. While legal frameworks and policies aimed at promoting women’s rights may be in place, changing deeply held beliefs and attitudes requires a more nuanced and long-term approach. This could involve targeted educational programs, community-based initiatives, and sustained advocacy efforts to challenge traditional norms and promote more equitable gender roles. The South China Morning Post also covered this story, providing additional context on the regional implications here.

What Happens Next?

The Ipsos study serves as a valuable benchmark for tracking changes in attitudes toward gender roles over time. It is likely that further research will be conducted to explore these issues in greater depth, including investigations into the specific factors that contribute to the persistence of traditional views in Malaysia and Indonesia. The Global Institute for Women’s Leadership at King’s College London will likely continue to monitor these trends and provide insights to inform policy and advocacy efforts.