Melaka:The Melaka government has allocated RM700,000 over three years starting in 2023 to support and enhance the cooperative movement through various targeted initiatives.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Chief Minister Datuk Seri Ab Rauf Yusoh outlined the initiatives, which include the Melaka State Mosque Congregation (Kariah) Cooperative Economic Development Assistance, Micro-Cluster Cooperative Empowerment Assistance, and Multi-Cluster Cooperative Empowerment Assistance (E-Perkasa).
More than 50 cooperatives have already benefited from these initiatives. The presentation of mock cheques to the Malaysia Cooperative Societies Commission (SKM) for distribution to 16 cooperatives marked the continuation of these efforts. The Chief Minister emphasized that the assistance should catalyze further growth and not end with the allocation itself.
The cooperative movement in Melaka is encouraged to expand and integrate more fully into the state's economic framework. Ab Rauf highlighted the significance of cooperatives, noting that they are a crucial part of the economic strength of the people and should not be viewed as a 'second-class' economy.
As of December 31 last year, Melaka's cooperative movement had accumulated assets exceeding RM608 million and generated a total revenue of RM186 million, an increase of RM3.86 million from the previous year. The state boasts 516 registered cooperatives with over 177,000 members.
During the 2026 State-level Cooperative Movement Appreciation Ceremony, Koperasi Pegawai Kerajaan Negeri Melaka Berhad was awarded the State Best Cooperative Award 2026. Koperasi Pengusaha Pekerja Malaysia Berhad and Koperasi Peserta-Peserta Felcra Ramuan China Melaka Berhad took second and third places, respectively. Additional awards included the Best Community Cooperative Award to Koperasi Baba Nyonya Melaka Berhad, the Best Higher Education Institution Cooperative Award to Koperasi Politeknik Merlimau Melaka Berhad, and the Best School Cooperative Award to Koperasi Maktab Rendah Sains MARA Tun Ghafar Baba Melaka Berhad.