Perceived Gender Inequality, Discrimination and Work-life Balance in Malaysian Sports Leadership: a Correlational Study
Year: 2026
Type: article
Study design: Observational Study
Abstract: Women remain underrepresented in sports leadership globally and in Malaysia. This study examined three perceived barriers contributing to this issue: gender inequality, gender-based discrimination, and work-life balance challenges. Using a structured questionnaire adapted from previous research, data were collected from 100 respondents in Malaysian sports organisations in the Klang Valley, with 91% representing the government sector. Perceived gender inequality recorded the highest mean score (M = 3.31), followed by work-life balance challenges (M = 3.11) and discrimination (M = 2.98), indicating neutral to slight agreement. Pearson correlation analysis revealed significant moderate to strong positive relationships among all three variables (r = 0.552–0.723, p < 0.01). The findings demonstrate the interconnected nature of these barriers and highlight the importance of integrated organisational interventions to strengthen gender inclusivity in sports leadership. These efforts support the continued implementation of Malaysia’s Women in Sport Action Plan 2021–2025, promoting equitable opportunities and sustainable leadership development.
Language: English
Subfield: Gender Studies
Field: Social Sciences
Domain: Social Sciences
Open Access status: diamond
OpenAlex ID: W7208831775