Sinar Daily’s ‘The Gender Equation’ discussion redefines leadership through balance
Balanced leadership is not defined by gender, but by empathy, understanding and respect for differences.
KUALA LUMPUR – The lines between traditional gender roles are shifting and with that comes a new wave of leadership rooted in empathy, understanding and collaboration.
This was the common thread that tied together all the three panelists at Sinar Daily's "The Gender Equation: Leading Through Balance" live panel discussion at KLGCC Mall, here, on Nov 7.
The discussion aimed to explore how both men and women can work together to create more emotionally intelligent and balanced leadership, in line with Movember, a global movement focused on men’s health and wellbeing.
For content creator and entrepreneur Alana Dunsmore, Malaysia stood as a unique example of how gender competition can dissolve when mutual respect took the lead.
“When I came to Malaysia, I saw that the competition between men and women wasn’t as sharp as in other countries.
“It’s not about men versus women. Yes, gender roles have changed since my parents’ generation, but with that comes a beautiful new workplace and learning environment,” she said.
Her observation struck a chord with the audience, many of whom nodded in agreement.
Dunsmore added that the growing sense of collaboration across genders in Malaysia should be celebrated, as it sets a positive foundation for future leaders.
Meanwhile, iCARE Dental founder and managing director Dr Ibrahim Shahruddin echoed the need for awareness in navigating evolving gender dynamics.
“Gender roles have developed, men now do what used to be seen as women’s work and women are excelling in leadership roles once dominated by men,” he said.
He stressed that understanding these differences, rather than denying them allowed leaders to harness each gender’s strengths.
“Men and women think differently and that’s okay. Once you understand that, you can create better teamwork. Emotional intelligence is higher in women and men may focus differently, but both perspectives are valuable,” Dr Ibrahim said.
For Cuura Malaysia director Sarah Shah Nor, balance begins at home.
Sharing her candid experience of running a business with her husband, she revealed the challenges that came with mixing work and family.
She said she and her husband learned to separate professional and personal roles, which improved both their relationship and work.
“We realised that after 6.30pm, work is off-limits. That’s family time. It’s about communication, respect and knowing where to draw the line,” Sarah said.
She also highlighted that diverse teams, with a mix of men and women brought the best results.
Men, she said focused on numbers while women brought empathy and creativity.
“It’s a good dynamic that keeps everyone on their toes,” she added.
While each panelist brought their unique background and story, their insights converged on one key message: balanced leadership is not defined by gender, but by empathy, understanding and respect for differences.
The session was moderated by Girls4Girls Malaysia deputy country lead Fildzah Zulkifli, who guided the discussion with warmth and insight.
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