The policy on 30 percent women at decision-making level in the corporate sector could hinder the opportunities of other women in developing their career.

Former International Trade and Industry Minister Tan Sri Rafidah Aziz expressed concern that the policy could be used as an excuse by certain companies to limit the participation of women in their companies, on the grounds that they have fulfilled the 30 percent quota.

"We are afraid of the policy becoming a 'quota syndrome' as companies may employ women at senior positions for fear of facing non-compliance action, regardless of the contribution by women," she told reporters delivering a keynote address at the 'Women Extraordinaire Forum 2013' here, Wednesday.

The two-day forum, attended by 200 local and foreign participants was opened by Women, Family and Community Development Minister Datuk Seri Rohani Abdul Karim.

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak had, during the 2013 Global Women Summit in June, challenged the corporate sector to ensure at least 30 percent of the decision-makers and board members were women, including government-linked companies (GLC) and the various commissions, by 2016.

Rafidah, who is AirAsia X chairman, said the participation of women as decision makers in the corporate sector should not be limited to only 30 percent if there were eligible and capable women.

She added that the policy should not be limited to only decision maker but could be extended to all levels of any organisation.