This study aims at examining the role and status of women in the rural sector of Malaysia from the perspective of their economic contribution and participation. In view of recent interest and concern to fully utilize the economic potentials of women and to integrate them into development role, this study also hopes to explore the main avenues of gainful employment for the rural women. The focus of this study is on women in the fisheries sector, especially those in the small-scale fishing communities. To the extent that this study is not based on micro-level studies or formal surveys, the views and opinions expressed here are therefore general in nature. Be that as it may, given the financial and time constraints of this study and in the absence of documented or published works in this area, the general picture presented here is no less valid than quantifiable data generated by micro-studies and formal surveys.