KUSKOP Channels RM1.03 Million to Strengthen Cooperatives and Community Development in Penang
BUKIT MERTAJAM, March 13 — The Ministry of Entrepreneur Development and Cooperatives (KUSKOP) has announced a RM1.03 million allocation aimed at supporting cooperative development and community economic initiatives across Penang.
The funding, channelled through the Malaysian Cooperative Commission (SKM), is part of the government’s broader strategy to strengthen the cooperative sector as a driver of grassroots economic growth.
Minister Steven Sim Chee Keong said cooperatives play an important role in expanding economic opportunities within communities while supporting the growth of small and medium enterprises (SMEs).
According to him, the government recognises the need to strengthen support mechanisms for cooperatives and SMEs, particularly as global economic conditions remain uncertain due to geopolitical developments.
“As the minister responsible for safeguarding the interests of SME entrepreneurs, I am aware that the government must act quickly to address challenges faced by this sector,” he said.
Sim made the remarks while speaking at the Coop Talk: Menteri dan Komuniti Bukit Mertajam programme held at SMK Taman Sejahtera.
He explained that the ministry has introduced several funding programmes and initiatives designed to help cooperatives expand their economic activities and strengthen their operations.
Out of the total allocation announced, RM786,420 will be channelled through the Revolving Capital Fund to Koperasi Pekebun Getah Negeri Pulau Pinang Berhad.
The funding is intended to support the cooperative’s economic operations and enhance its ability to generate income for its members.
In addition, RM200,000 will be provided through the Cooperative Supply Chain Empowerment Programme (SCOPE) to Koperasi Kariah Masjid Ibadur Rahman Kepala Batas Pulau Pinang Berhad.
The programme is designed to strengthen the cooperative’s supply chain network while stimulating economic activities within the surrounding community.
Sim said the government hopes to see more cooperatives playing an active role in driving local economic development and creating new opportunities for community members.
During the same event, the minister also presented welfare assistance to students and school staff as part of community support efforts.
A total of 50 asnaf students and school support staff received food basket contributions valued at approximately RM5,000.
The school also received cash assistance and two television sets to help improve teaching and learning facilities.
Sim expressed hope that the contributions would help ease financial burdens faced by the recipients while supporting the school’s educational environment.
In addition, he distributed RM33,000 in Aidilfitri contributions to several cooperatives in the state.
The assistance benefited 21 active mosque cooperatives in Penang and 12 school cooperatives within the Bukit Mertajam parliamentary constituency.
The contributions aim to help cooperative members prepare for the upcoming festive season while strengthening community engagement.
Sim emphasised that cooperatives remain an important pillar of Malaysia’s economic development strategy.
He said the cooperative model not only creates economic value but also strengthens social connections and collaboration within communities.
Through continued government support and targeted funding programmes, KUSKOP hopes more cooperatives will grow and contribute meaningfully to local and national economic development.
-wilayah.com.my
