The only way is up: proportions and portfolios for women in cabinet in Malaysia, 2008–2023

ABSTRACT The inclusion of women ministers in cabinet is vital in redistributing political power and increasing participation. However, increasing the number of women ministers is insufficient; the type of portfolios also matters. In Malaysia, following the 14th general election, the number of women ministers almost doubled; this increase survived government turn-overs between 2020–2022, and the 15th general election. Using cabinet composition and budget data, and a customised typology of portfolio salience, this paper analyses women’s cabinet representation between 2008–2023, finding significant improvements after the 15th general election, and identifying imperatives for cabinet formation if participation is to be increased.