ALOR SETAR, October 22 2026, The Co-operative Societies Commission of Malaysia (SKM) has been urged to simplify funding applications and reduce bureaucratic hurdles to help more cooperatives benefit from government assistance.
Deputy Entrepreneur and Cooperatives Development Minister Datuk Mohamad Alimin said applications for business development grants and revolving capital financing remained low despite the availability of funds.
He called on SKM to provide more guidance at the grassroots level, helping cooperatives understand application requirements and access financial support more easily.
Mohamad Alimin was speaking to reporters after the 2026 Kedah Cooperative Movement Appreciation Ceremony, where he presented RM1.9 million in business development assistance to 15 cooperatives and RM200,000 in revolving capital financing to another cooperative for business expansion.
He said further assistance was also available to cooperatives involved in food security and agriculture.
Mohamad Alimin encouraged cooperatives to adopt sustainable business models that generate steady income rather than concentrating mainly on members’ welfare and annual dividends.
He stressed the importance of careful business planning and urged cooperatives to avoid ventures without clear long-term prospects that could expose them to financial difficulties.
He also called for SKM to strengthen its advisory role by providing consultancy services, technical expertise and guidance to help cooperatives manage their operations professionally and resolve problems early.
-BERNAMA
