MANFAAT KOPERASI TERHADAP KESEJAHTERAAN NELAYAN DI TERENGGANU (The Role of Cooperatives in Enhancing the Well-Being of Fishermen in Terengganu)

Abstract

This study aims to identify the benefits gained from fishermen’s involvement in cooperatives and to examine the governance capacity of fishermen’s cooperatives in Terengganu. The research was conducted in Kuala Nerus, focusing on two case study cooperatives: Koperasi Nelayan Seberang Takir Berhad and Koperasi Nelayan Mengabang Telipot Berhad. A total of 15 fishermen who are cooperative members were interviewed using a qualitative approach through case study design and direct observation. The findings reveal that active participation in cooperatives provides various benefits not only to the members but also to their families, such as financial aid, loans, and dividends. Furthermore, the governance of these cooperatives is trusted and transparent, as board members are elected through annual general meetings. The involvement of fishermen in cooperatives is seen to offer long-term benefits, even after they retire from fishing. Therefore, empowering community-based fishermen’s cooperatives is essential as a form of social security, complementing the role of Fishermen’s Associations which are usually joined during their active years.