14-05-2025
Malaysia Committed To Strengthening ASEAN Cooperative Sector
PETALING JAYA, May 14 (Bernama) -- Malaysia is committed to strengthening the role of cooperatives in the region and ensuring they remain key drivers of inclusive and sustainable socio-economic growth, said Deputy Minister of Entrepreneur Development and Cooperatives, Datuk Seri R. Ramanan.
He said cooperatives are now recognised as important contributors to the economy, particularly in sectors such as agriculture, finance, education, and digital innovation.
'In this context, the ASEAN Cooperative Dialogue 2025 (ACD2025) is not merely a dialogue, but a renewed vision for a resilient, inclusive, and people-centred ASEAN,' he said during his speech at the ACD2025 Gala Dinner here tonight.
'The event marks a pivotal moment in realigning regional priorities towards sustainable and equitable growth, especially with 2025 declared as the International Year of Cooperatives by the United Nations,' he added.
Also present was the President of ANGKASA, Datuk Seri Dr Abdul Fattah Abdullah.
Held over two days at the Sunway Resort Hotel beginning yesterday, ACD2025 brought together cooperative leaders, policymakers, and stakeholders from across ASEAN to explore ways to enhance regional cooperation and empower communities through the cooperative movement.
Ramanan said as Malaysia assumes the ASEAN Chairmanship in 2025, the country is proud to champion the cooperative agenda in line with the chairmanship's theme of 'Inclusivity and Sustainability' and the national MADANI framework.
He also emphasised the importance of the ASEAN Action Plan for Cooperatives, which aligns with the ASEAN Economic Community (AEC) Blueprint and guides the advancement of the sector across Southeast Asia.
'By aligning our cooperative initiatives with the broader goals of the AEC, we ensure that Malaysian cooperatives continue to drive local entrepreneurship and reduce socio-economic inequalities,' he said.
