Malaysian women can expect more business and income-generating opportunities if Barisan Nasional (BN) is returned to power in the upcoming general election.

According to the BN election manifesto themed 'A Promise of Hope' launched by Prime Minister and BN chairman Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak tonight, the coalition will create more incentives for work-from-home initiatives, with greater emphasis on single mothers.

There is also the promise to increase the number of women participating in national decision-making as well as promote gender equality to maximise the potential of Malaysians in all fields, regardless of gender.

"The BN government's policies through the years have provided women with the choice of being at the forefront of business and innovation without giving up on their natural instincts as homemakers," the manifesto said.

In addition, the BN is committed to tightening laws to prevent incidents of sexual abuse and harassment in homes and at the workplace.

The BN also pledges to open 1Malaysia Daycare Centres in all government-linked companies and government offices, and encourage the private sector to do the same.

The BN government had taken various measures to address issues affecting women, such as passing the Code of Practice on the Prevention and Eradication of Sexual Harassment in the Workplace as well as passing guidelines on sexual harassment for civil servants.

It had implemented a policy to ensure women's participation in decision-making by encouraging the appointment of women to 30 per cent of top corporate positions besides announcing the appointment of at least one woman to all GLC boards of directors.