In Mainland China, despite being highly educated and often professionally successful, “leftover” women have been described in the media as being worthless and undermining society's moral fabric. Their plight was captured by Leta Hong Fincher in her book "Leftover Women: The Resurgence of Inequality". 

Unmarried Hong Kong women have also been touched by the same stigma. From the TVB series “Bride Wannabes” to the increase in the number of dating agencies specifically targeting women over 30, for many in Hong Kong society - women’s identity is still intrinsically associated with their marital status.

At TWF, we applaud SK-II for tackling such a controversial issue and encouraging women to be confident in their life decisions. We think it is critically important that women embrace the concept of self-reliance, not just economically but in all aspects of life. We believe that women who lean in to life - by doing a job they enjoy, who have hobbies, who keep up with a robust network of family, friends and colleagues - have a better chance of sustained happiness and, should they choose to marry, of forging relationships with spouses or partners which are based on mutual respect. Any other approach leaves women potentially economically and emotionally vulnerable which has adverse consequences for women and for society as a whole.