More workplace subsidies, tax incentives needed to support breastfeeding mothers, says Yeo Bee Yin

PETALING JAYA, Aug 19 — In order to better support breastfeeding mothers, the government must provide additional subsidies and tax incentives for businesses to establish breastfeeding rooms and childcare facilities at their workplaces. Yeo Bee Yin, chairperson of the Parliamentary Special Select Committee on Women, Children and Community Development, stated that many mothers struggle to continue breastfeeding after resuming their professional duties.

During a panel discussion titled 'Realities of Breastfeeding', Yeo advocated for tax incentives to be offered to offices and companies to provide breastfeeding rooms or multipurpose spaces for milk expression, as well as childcare facilities within the workplace. Moderated by Nani Roslan, the panel featured certified lactation consultant Elizabeth Richard and actress Natasha Hudson, and included discussions on the underrepresentation of women in Parliament, the need for societal support, and the importance of breastfeeding mothers feeling no guilt when facing challenges such as low milk supply or breast engorgement.

Elizabeth Richard advised mothers to avoid self-blame when encountering breastfeeding difficulties, as every baby is unique, and those unable to breastfeed directly could express and store their milk for their infants. Natasha Hudson, a mother of five, acknowledged that breastfeeding experiences vary greatly and she had to combine breastfeeding with formula milk for her fourth daughter when her milk supply decreased.

She emphasized the value of seeking help from lactation consultants and learning new techniques to manage complications such as mastitis.