Localizing Gender and Participatory Budgeting: Challenges of Institutionalization in Penang, Malaysia

Citation:

Bakar, Aloyah A., Patahiyah Binti Ismail, and Maimunah Mohd Sharif. 2016. “Localizing Gender and Participatory Budgeting: Challenges of Institutionalization in Penang, Malaysia.” In Gender Responsive and Participatory Budgeting, edited by Cecilia Ng, 142–62. SpringerBriefs in Environment, Security, Development and Peace 22. Springer International Publishing.

Authors: Aloyah A. Bakar, Patahiyah Binti Ismail, Maimunah Mohd Sharif

Abstract:

Institutionalization is the introduction of new practices for sustained change, and it is a complex and difficult process. This chapter analyses the readiness of the two local governments in Penang to institutionalize GRB within their respective organizational milieus. It points out that lobbying with and sensitizing policy makers as change agents in the early stages of its formulation is an important pre-condition of institutionalization. At the same time, local authorities need to create an enabling and supportive environment to make GRPB a reality in their respective bureaucratic contexts although competing priorities might affect actions and commitment. The chapter argues that both a participatory approach and a commitment towards gender integration into budget structures and processes are the way forward.

Keywords: institutionalization, Gender and participatory budgeting, pilot project, municipality, local government

Topics: Gender, Gender Budgeting, Governance Regions: Asia, Southeast Asia Countries: Malaysia

Year: 2016