KOTA KINABALU: The cooperative movement in Sabah must be bold to undertake business transformation by diversifying income sources and venturing into new sectors that can create added value for members, communities and the state economy, says Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor.
The Chief Minister said that in an increasingly competitive economic and technological landscape, cooperatives can no longer rely solely on traditional business models, but must continue to innovate to stay competitive and sustain growth.
Business transformation will enable cooperatives to penetrate new markets, meet the needs of members and customers, and capitalise on emerging economic opportunities in line with changing circumstances, he added.
"The state government strongly encourages cooperatives to continue strengthening their governance, expanding their business activities and serving as catalysts for inclusive and sustainable economic development.
"I am confident that the movement will remain relevant and continue to be an important contributor to the state’s development if it is always prepared to adapt to current needs," he said when officiating at the 49th annual general meeting (AGM) of the Sabah Government Employees Cooperative Berhad (Kopeks) here on Thursday (June 18).
Hajiji also launched the Kinabalu Media community newspaper at the event.
Hajiji said Kopeks should serve as an example as it has boldly transformed itself from a credit business, moving into various strategic sectors with high growth potential, including Ar-Rahnu services, healthcare, dialysis centres, housing projects, import and export activities, and community newspaper publishing.
He said the publication of Kinabalu Media demonstrates Kopeks’ commitment to strengthening the culture of knowledge and providing a platform for the dissemination of reliable information to the public, while also making an important contribution to Sabah’s newspaper industry.
"In this rapidly evolving digital media era, print publications still play an important role in providing in-depth reporting, quality analysis and documentation of various current issues.
"The state government views the media as a strategic partner in efforts to develop the state and strengthen unity, including in advancing the Sabah Maju Jaya (SMJ) 2.0 roadmap," he said.
He noted that Kopeks' foray into the healthcare sector saw it acquire several private clinics, enabling members to enjoy treatment at affordable rates.
He also welcomed its plan to establish a dialysis centre, noting the rising demand for such services.
Hajiji said the state government had contributed 100 haemodialysis machines worth RM4.5mil to 23 government hospitals and two health clinics throughout Sabah in 2024 to help improve access to treatment.
Hajiji also congratulated the Kopeks leadership for its encouraging profit performance last year and its consistent dividend payments to members over the last two decades.
