This study examines how gender and culture intersect to shape leadership practices among Iban women in Sarawak, Malaysia. Grounded in transformational, servant, and feminist leadership theories, the research investigates how Iban women leaders navigate gender norms, cultural expectations, and community governance responsibilities. Using a qualitative design involving focus group discussions (FGDs) with 24 Iban women leaders in Sibu, Julau, and Selangau, the findings reveal that Iban women practice a hybrid leadership model that blends relational, collaborative, and service-oriented principles with transformational traits such as empowerment, vision, and community upliftment. Their leadership reflects Iban cultural values such as consensus decision-making, communal labour, and respect for adat (customary law), while simultaneously challenging gendered assumptions about authority. This study contributes to the discourse on indigenous and feminist leadership by revealing how leadership styles are locally constructed through cultural logics and lived experiences. It highlights the importance of culturally grounded leadership development for rural governance and gender inclusivity in Sarawak.

Authors:
Lucy Sebli, Universiti Malaysia Sarawak, Malaysia
Caroline Eve Gembar, Universiti Malaysia Sarawak, Malaysia
Muhammad Amsyar Iman Mohd Ramlan, Universiti Malaysia Sarawak, Malaysia

About the Presenter(s)
Associate Professor Dr Lucy Sebli-Seidelson is currently a senior lecturer in International Relations Programme at Faculty Social Sciences and Humanities, Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (UNIMAS)

See this presentation on the full schedule – Monday Schedule

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