SKM Approves RM1 Mln Funding For 94 Cooperatives Under 'Jejak Koperasi' Programme - Ewon

TENOM, July 11 (Bernama) -- The Cooperative Commission of Malaysia (SKM) has approved RM1.02 million in funding to 94 cooperatives nationwide under the ‘Jejak Koperasi’ programme, in an effort to empower the country's cooperative sector.

Minister of Entrepreneur Development and Cooperatives (Kuskop) Datuk Ewon Benedick said the amount was part of the RM2 million allocated by SKM to implement the programme, involving the participation of 160 cooperatives.

He said the ‘Jejak Koperasi’ programme was a special initiative of Kuskop through SKM introduced in 2024, to help prepare cooperatives involved in the tourism and hospitality sector for the Visit Malaysia Year (VMY) 2026.

“In addition, RM642,000 has also been allocated for the MADANI Cooperative Sales Programme, which is being implemented comprehensively in various locations.

“This effort aims to increase participation in local economic activities and provide direct benefits to the community,” he said in a statement in conjunction with the opening of the Tenom district-level 2025 Mini Cooperative Carnival today.

Ewon said cooperatives across the country now hold shares and fees reaching RM18.3 billion, assets of RM173 billion, and an annual turnover of around RM68.18 billion

He said the government was also drafting amendments to the Cooperative Societies Act 1993 to strengthen the legal framework, making it more progressive and cooperative-friendly, in line with current and future aspirations.

-- BERNAMA