In this informative episode of RYTHM Connect, host Umayal Eswaran speaks with Dr Hajah Yatela Zainal Abidin, CEO of Sime Darby Foundation (Yayasan Sime Darby), who shares her rich experiences and deep insights on the topics of diversity, empowerment, and leadership. Through an engaging dialogue and thoughtful reflection, they navigate the complex terrain of societal challenges and triumphs, offering a compelling narrative that speaks to the heart of gender equality, social justice, and the full realisation of women’s talents. 

Learn more about: 

Dr Yatela on LinkedIn 

Yayasan Sime Darby 

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0:00:07-0:02:28 – Introduction  

• Introducing RYTHM Connect, Dr Yatela, and YSD. 

0:03:40-0:08:36 – Of Adversity and Allyship 

• Dr Yatela’s career and journey with YSD 
• Challenges and discrimination “as a woman and in a hijab” 
• A male ally emerges… 

0:10:13-0:12:38 – Unconscious Biasness 

• Opening minds with education and awareness 
• Diversity for performance and profits 

0:12:50-0:14:25 – Equality Everywhere 

• Unpacking the paid paternity policy 
• Equity in the workplace – and home 

0:14:26-0:17:07 – Perspectives on Family and Talent Retention 

• Umayal on what truly defines family 
• Sharing the benefits and burdens 
• Empowering women: TalentCorp’s solution 

0:17:33- 0:24:01 – The Dilemma of Underprivileged Women 

• The absolute unacceptability of domestic violence 
• Advancing education and awareness 
• Umayal on RYTHM’s Maharani Programme 

0:24:26-0:29:33 – Effective Governance 

• Dr Yatela on the YSD experience 
• Women excelling in foundation leadership 
• Dispelling corporate foundation myths 

0:29:43-0:34:03 – Closing Thoughts 

• The necessity of a diverse policy ecosystem 
• The vital role of women in sports 

0:34:04-0:35:26 – Outro 

• Thank you for tuning in to RYTHM Connect 
• Reminders to subscribe and follow us on social media