Kuala Lumpur:Collaborations between cooperatives and private companies in Malaysia are set to expand into healthcare and education sectors, providing a model for enhanced cooperation with ASEAN countries, stated Deputy Entrepreneur Development and Cooperatives Minister Datuk Mohamad Alamin.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Mohamad Alamin highlighted that Malaysians could contribute their expertise to ASEAN countries, especially in improving education and healthcare systems, which are critical areas needing support. He encouraged Malaysian agencies and Angkatan Koperasi Kebangsaan Malaysia Bhd (ANGKASA) to partner with the private sector, like Optimax, to explore new opportunities and introduce Malaysian innovations.

The Deputy Minister made these remarks during a collaboration agreement signing ceremony between ANGKASA's subsidiary, MyANGKASA Holdings Sdn Bhd, and Optimax Eye Specialist Centre Sdn Bhd (OESC). This agreement aims to broaden access to eye care services for cooperative members and their families across Malaysia.

The agreement, effective for an initial three-year period with potential annual renewals, involves offering eye examinations and surgical procedures as recommended by qualified ophthalmologists. Additionally, both parties will collaborate on eye health education and awareness programs to promote regular eye check-ups and early detection of vision issues.

ANGKASA president Datuk Seri Dr Abdul Fattah Abdullah noted that some of their 7.3 million cooperative members, including government employees, could access these services through salary deductions. This initiative opens new business avenues for cooperatives previously focused on traditional sectors.

Optimax Holdings chairman Datuk Seri Dr Chen Chaw Min aims to have 2,000 ANGKASA members visit OESC's 25 branches nationwide by the year's end.