Malaysian Journal of Co-operative Studies
Malaysian Journal of Co-operative Studies (MJCS) is a refereed journal and indexed in MyCite and MyJurnal. MJCS provides a platform for the exchange of knowledge sharing based on research, opinions, and original comments on issues involving the cooperative movement in Malaysia as well as internationally. This journal is published once a year in October and is open for article contributions from inside and outside of the Co-operative Institute of Malaysia. Journal name : Malaysian Journal of Co-operative Studies (MJCS) ISSN : 2600-7290 Publisher : Co-operative Institute of Malaysia Publication frequency : Once a year (October) Editorial Address : Centre of Research, Co-operative Institute of Malaysia, 103 Jalan Templer, 46700 Petaling Jaya, Selangor. Email : mjcs@ikma.edu.my
SUMBANGAN AKTIVITI AGROMAKANAN DAN RANTAIAN NILAI TERHADAP SEKTOR KOPERASI MALAYSIA (Contribution of agricultural food activities and value chain to the cooperative sector in Malaysia)
The National Agro-Food Policy 2.0 (DAN 2.0) emphasizes the modernization of the agricultural and industrial sectors along the agro-food value chain based on the increased use of automation and technology based on industrial revolution 4.0. However, the contribution of agro-food to cooperative earnings is still low due to lack of efficiency along the value chain. This study aims to identify the contribution of agro-food activities to cooperatives in Malaysia. Next, identify the contribution of cooperatives through value chain involvement in agro-food activities. Quantitative methods and sampling strategies use census methods, where all cooperatives involved in agro-food activities are taken into account for the collection of study data. This study uses the cooperative’s annual report as well as a questionnaire to obtain a profile of cooperatives that carry out agro-food activities. The findings of the study found that rice cultivation activities contributed to the highest income of the cooperative. Meanwhile, animal husbandry activities contribute the highest return on investment. Next, the results of the financial analysis prove that cooperatives involved in value chain activities at more than two levels will increase income. However, cooperatives involved in only one level of the value chain will record the lowest income. The implication of this study is that the cooperative sector through DAN 2.0 can play its role in empowering value chain activities that will have a positive impact on the financial aspect of cooperatives thus addressing the national security agenda in the future.
Copyright (c) 2023 Mohd Nusi Abdul Rahman and Salwana Ali and Zulkiflee Aspan and Norul Hayatie Hashim and Rosmalina Che Yakzam https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0/
AMALAN TERBAIK KOPERASI DALAM SEKTOR PEMBORONGAN DAN PERUNCITAN KAJIAN KES: SAIGON CO.OP, VIETNAM DAN NTUC FAIRPRICE, SINGAPURA (The best practices of co-operative in wholesale and retail sector Case study: Saigon Co.op, Vietnam and NTUC Fairprice, Singapore)
The turnover of Malaysian wholesale and retail sector cooperatives is small compared to the overall growth of the sector in Malaysia which is rapidly developing. This means, there is an opportunity for the cooperative performance of this sector to be improved. It is important to emulate comprehensive achievement that includes the socio-economic goals of cooperative members like those which effective in retail cooperatives in other countries. Thus, this analysis was conducted to identify the best practices of cooperative retailing activities of Saigon Co.op in Vietnam and NTUC FairPrice in Singapore. The discussion of this article is based on the case studies of these two cooperatives through an interview approach, observation, and document review. Next, the descriptive analysis and cross-case analysis were performed. The article focuses on two major perspectives namely the administration and business of the cooperatives. The results of the analysis found that, the strategy of diversification of premises according to customer segment and location makes cooperative retail activities always relevant. The significant theoretical contribution of this article has proven the concept of cooperative alliances capable of empowering the movement. However, from a practical point of view to be applied in Malaysia, it will depend on the ability and business environment of the wholesale and retail sector federation that has been developed by the cooperative movement in this country.
Copyright (c) 2023 Haslinda Sujak https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0/
FAKTOR DAYA TAHAN PERNIAGAAN KOPERASI DI SARAWAK (Cooperative business resilience factors in Sarawak)
This study aims to identify the business resilience factors of micro cooperatives in the state of Sarawak using qualitative methods. Twenty-two (22) micro cooperatives that were over five years of establishment throughout the state of Sarawak involving nine (9) business functions have been selected as participants in this study. The sampling technique utilized a purposive sampling method and 22 respondents were interviewed. Data were analyzed using a thematic method which consists of open coding, axial coding and selective coding. Through face-to-face interview which has been conducted using interview protocol developed by the researcher as well as the transcription of the data obtained, there were three (3) business resilience factors among micro cooperatives in Sarawak have been identified, namely resource management factors, cooperative characteristics, and the business environment. The findings of the study has contributed to the development of theoretical and practical insights particularly on the micro cooperative development in Malaysia.
Copyright (c) 2023 Hamizah Mohd Nadzir and Yusman Yacob and Syarifah Rohaya Wan Idris and Nur Fatin Syazwani Ahmad and Dayang Adelina Abang Muan https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0/
ANALISIS KOMPETENSI ANGGOTA LEMBAGA KOPERASI MENGGUNAKAN MODEL PENGUKURAN RASCH (Competence analysis of cooperative board members using the Rasch measurement model)
Competence is the ability of a person to perform a task or job well. Research on the competence of Cooperative Board Members (CBM) is still under-conducted and with this research it is hoped that it can help the cooperative to empower their own competence and can be used as an effort to boost the cooperative’s performance. This study was conducted on 420 respondents who held positions as Chairman, Secretary and Treasurer from a registered cooperative in Malaysia. This quantitative study aims to analyse the current level of competence of CBM and to analyse the competence gap that characterizes the five main areas of management, namely (i) management and administration, (ii) financial management, (iii) strategic management, (iv) governance management and (v) business management. Research data was collected using questionnaire and analysed using the Rasch Measurement Model with Winstep 5.2.2.0. The results of the analysis found that 211 respondents (50.2 percent) had high competence, 170 respondents (40.5 percent) had moderate competence, and 39 respondents (9.3 percent) had low competence. Through research, this study also found that the field of financial management is the most difficult field of management to be implemented by CBM. The implication of this study is to suggest a course that is suitable for CBM’s competency gap and is hoped to be an input for improving the lack of competence for the three main positions in the cooperative. Further research on the competence of ALK can be directed more critically at the elements found in the main management area of cooperatives that have the highest level of difficulty so that competence gaps can be identified and improved over time.
Copyright (c) 2023 Adila Hashim and Nur Yazira Hamsan and Siti Nuraini Abu Bakar and Azianti Ismail https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0/
PENGLIBATAN DAN FAKTOR-FAKTOR YANG MEMPENGARUHI RANTAIAN NILAI KOPERASI AGROMAKANAN DI MALAYSIA (Agrofood cooperative’s involvement and factors affecting the value chain activities in Malaysia)
The era of globalization has intensified the need for entrepreneurs to stay competitive in both domestic and global markets. To remain viable and relevant, entrepreneurs must create meaningful value and healthy competition against their competitors. This value is generated as the product passes through each level of the value chain. This article explores the involvement and factors that affect the value chain of agrofood cooperatives in Malaysia. The study aimed to assess the cooperative’s involvement in value chain activities and identify the factors that influence them. The study used a quantitative method and determined the sample size through the census method, where all agrofood cooperatives were included in the data collection. Questionnaires were administered, and the data were analysed using SPSSv.27. The analysis focused on the involvement of cooperatives in key chain activities such as input supply, processing, collection, marketing, transportation, and manufacturing. Additionally, six influencing factors were identified, including governance, technology, logistics, suppliers, quality, and marketing factors. The results of the study indicated that quality factors, governance, and suppliers are the most significant factors influencing the cooperative’s value chain activities. Overall, the study emphasizes the importance of effective value chain management in creating and maintaining a competitive advantage in the agrofood industry.
Copyright (c) 2023 Norul Hayatie Hashim and Rosmalina Che Yakzam and Zulkiflee Aspan and Mohd Nusi Abdul Rahman and Salwana Ali https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0/
PERANAN GAYA KEPIMPINAN DAN AMALAN PERAKAUNAN PENGURUSAN KE ATAS PRESTASI KOPERASI DI SEMENANJUNG MALAYSIA (Role of leadership style and management accounting practices on cooperative performance in Peninsular Malaysia)
The rapid change in the business environment encourages the cooperative sector to transform with efforts to improve performance. It becomes a priority in line with its role as the third sector in the national economy. The performance of cooperatives needs to be enhanced by emphasizing an efficient internal strategy from ALK. The management not only provides benefits to cooperatives, such as generating cooperative growth, but it can also increase the source of income and economic growth of the country. Therefore, guided by the theory of resource-based view, the study’s objective is to identify the relationship between ALK’s leadership style or management through transformation and transactions with management accounting practices (MAPs) and MAPs with cooperative performance. Data was obtained through a questionnaire to 190 cooperatives through board member and cooperative management. The response rate was 76.8%, totaling 146 questionnaires that were filled out and returned. The results show a positive relationship between transformational leadership style and MAPs, as well as MAPs and cooperative performance. However, the transactional leadership style is negatively related to MAPs. The research findings can be used as input to government agencies, primarily cooperatives, in strengthening governance practices through management accounting practices.
Copyright (c) 2023 Julizah Sabstu and Amizawati Mohd Amir https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0/
DOES COOPERATIVE MEMBERSHIP IMPROVE TECHNOLOGY ADOPTION? THE CASE OF DAIRY BUFFALO FARMERS IN THE PHILIPPINES
Cooperative has long been regarded as a vital tool to promote technology adoption and boost smallholder farmers’ income. Cooperatives are being tapped to extend hands-on training and seminars on production and management practices in dairy buffalo milk production. Several studies investigated the causal relationship between technology adoption and cooperative membership. However, no empirical studies tried to explore the effect of cooperative membership on the technology adoption extensity. This study analyzes the factors affecting the decision of farmers to become members of cooperatives and the impact of cooperative membership on the adoption of technologies. The study utilized farm-level data from 351 randomly selected dairy buffalo raisers from the Philippines’ major dairy buffalo milk-producing regions. The Poisson regression with endogenous treatment model was used to analyze causality that links cooperative membership to technology adoption. Variables representing cooperative membership, farmgate price of milk, dairy farming as the primary source of income, training attendance, number of milking cows, and cold storage (refrigerator/freezer) ownership positively influence the technology adoption. The results of the endogenous treatment regression show that cooperative membership positively and significantly influenced technology adoption. Findings imply that cooperative membership is an effective tool to enhance technology uptake among dairy buffalo farmers for improved productivity and income.
Copyright (c) 2023 Agham C. Cuevas and Ceptryl S. Mina https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0/
THE PATH OF COOPERATIVE DEVELOPMENT RESEARCH: THE BIBLIOMETRIC ANALYSIS USING R
This paper seeks to shed light on cooperative development through a bibliometric analysis of 568 articles culled from the Scopus database between 1927 and 2022. Using the Bibliometrix package in RStudio and the Biblioshiny web apps, the bibliometric analyses reveal a significant increase in the number of publications related to cooperative development over the years, indicating a growing interest in this topic among researchers. This study analysed the annual publication trends, the most influential journals and articles, the leading authors, and the countries of cooperative development research. The Sustainability (Switzerland) published the greatest number of cooperative development-related articles, followed by the Annals of Public and Cooperative Economics, and Collection Management. Additional analyses included a keyword analysis, a co-occurrence network, and a thematic map to illustrate the evolution of pertinent themes and subthemes in cooperative development research. The article concludes with a discussion of limitations and recommendations for future research.
Copyright (c) 2023 Ummi Salwa Ahmad Bustamam and Hisham Sabri and Hasrin Abu Hassan https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0/
THE ENGAGEMENT OF CO-OPERATIVES IN ONLINE BUSINESS IN MALAYSIA
Statistics from the Companies Commission of Malaysia show that, as of July 2018, a total of 53,285 businesses had registered as online retailers. However, no formal data has been obtained on the engagement of co-operatives in online business. This research aimed to identify the profile of co-operatives in online business, particularly the factors that motivate co-operatives’ adoption of online business and the barriers faced by co-operatives in performing online business. In addition, this study sought to determine the role of co-operative performance in linking the motivating and barrier factors to continuous online business usage among co-operatives. The census method was used to collect data from the entire population of the study, which comprised co-operatives engaged in e-commerce businesses in Malaysia. The findings showed that trendiness, government support, and cost reduction have a direct positive effect on co-operative performance, while risk and a lack of employee competency have a direct negative effect on co-operative performance. Apart from that, co-operative performance was found to influence satisfaction and continuous usage directly and positively. The results further revealed that satisfaction has a direct positive impact on continuous usage as well as a mediating effect on the relationship between co-operative performance and continuous usage.
Copyright (c) 2023 Azlifah Abas and Hajar Azwin Mohamad Ashi and Zaharatul Laili Zakaria and Arfizawati Abd Hadi and Romaizah Abd Kadir and Rosmalina Che Yakzam and Cham Tat Huei https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0/
PENGLIBATAN PELAJAR DALAM KOPERASI KOLEJ VOKASIONAL (The involvement of students in vocational college cooperatives)
This study was conducted to identify the factors influencing student involvement in Vocational College Cooperatives. The respondents of this study are students who are members of Vocational College Cooperatives throughout Malaysia. This study used a quantitative questionnaire method, descriptive statistics, and multiple regression for analysis. The study results show that student involvement in Vocational College Cooperatives is remarkably high. Furthermore, this study indicates that three (3) factors influence the participation of the students in cooperatives: skills, self-satisfaction, and benefit. The study found that skill and self-satisfaction are the main factors that influence student involvement in Vocational College Cooperatives. These findings have practical implications, as they can guide the Ministry of Entrepreneurship and Cooperative Development (KUSKOP) and the Ministry of Education (KPM) in developing and formulating policies relevant to developing entrepreneurship and cooperatives among youth.
Copyright (c) 2024 Siti Hajar Saaey and Nazirah Baharudin and Shamsul Khairi Abu Hassan and Mohamad Haniff Mohamad Hashim and Nur Afifah Izzati Mokhtar https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
COOPERATIVE FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT TRAINING NEEDS AMONG COOPERATIVE BOARD MEMBERS (CBM)
Financial management is one of the difficult areas in the competence of cooperative board members (CBM) (Hamsan et al., 2023). The study suggests that CBM strengthens and improves the required competence by developing focused and appropriate training in specific fields. Therefore, the Co-operative Institute of Malaysia (CIM), previously known as the Co-operative College of Malaysia (CCM), is the only cooperative training centre in the country. Providing a focused training program for CBM to improve their performance and efficiency is essential. The objective of this study is to identify training needs in the field of cooperative financial management. The cooperative sampling method involves stratified random sampling techniques according to zones in Malaysia. This study used a mixed-method approach. For data collection, 221 respondents answered the questionnaire (quantitative method) as the primary data and 14 respondents were involved in focus group interviews (qualitative method) to support the findings of the quantitative method. This study used Statistical Package for the Social Science (SPSS) software version 28.0.1.0 (142) to analyse the questionnaire data (quantitative), and the interview transcript data (qualitative) was analysed through the coding process. The study results listed 17 training needs requiring serious attention and immediate action to improve the performance and efficiency of CBM.
Copyright (c) 2024 Adila Hashim and Siti Nuraini Abu Bakar and Azianti Ismail and Farahaini Mohd Hanif and Roziah Mohamed and Rosmalina Che Yakzam https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
A ROADMAP FOR SUSTAINABLE REFORMS IN COOPERATIVE DEPARTMENT OF PUNJAB: ISSUES AND WAY FORWARD
Cooperative movement is being regulated under the Cooperative Department of the Government of Punjab. The Government of Punjab’s Rules of Business 2011 prescribe the functions associated with the Department. Over time, cooperatives’ slackening role in national life and a kind of inertia existed in their work. Literature suggests that the perpetual upgradation of systems and the introduction of reforms keep any organisation on par with modern-day challenges. The inertia in cooperatives can be broken by introducing vibrant and cogent reforms. The study attempts to devise a roadmap for the revival of cooperatives in Punjab, Pakistan, by suggesting sustainable reforms like promulgating an improved legal framework through amendments in existing laws, introducing interest-free agricultural input schemes, etc. The urgency of this situation cannot be overstated, and immediate action is required. This qualitative study proposes immediate reforms and paves the way for continuous improvement through further research, ensuring that the cooperatives can perform a meaningful and visible role in the national development agenda.
Copyright (c) 2024 Munib ur Rehman and Mah E Muneer https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
AN ANALYSIS OF THE PERSONAL ENTREPRENEURIAL COMPETENCIES (PECS) OF DAIRY BUFFALO FARMERS IN SAN AGUSTIN, ISABELA, PHILIPPINES
This research, employing the Personal Entrepreneurial Competency (PEC) framework, sought to identify the entrepreneurial competencies of 137 dairy buffalo farmers in San Agustin, Isabela, the Crossbred Carabao Capital of the Philippines. The study also investigated whether the PECs of dairy buffalo farmers vary based on their group (e.g., cooperative and association) memberships. Understanding the PECs of the farmers is crucial as it informs targeted efforts to enhance specific skills and aids in designing effective interventions to bolster the crossbred dairy buffalo farming industry in the Philippines. The study revealed that the dairy buffalo farmers demonstrated one strong PEC, six moderate PECs, and three weak PECs. Competency and goal setting emerged as the highest-scoring PEC and the sole strength of the San Agustin dairy buffalo farmers. Conversely, the farmers showed weak competencies in taking calculated risks, maintaining high standards for quality and efficiency, and demonstrating persuasion and networking. The Mann-Whitney U Test further indicated that 4 PECs of group members’ farmers significantly differ from group non-members. The results underscore the potential for enhancing PEC scores of dairy buffalo raisers through membership in dairy farmers’ cooperatives and associations, thereby offering practical insights for the industry.
Copyright (c) 2024 Fitz D. Jimenez and Nanette A. Aquino and Dinah Pura T. Depositario and Mar B. Cruz and Rei Chino C. Pua and Cris Edwin B. Bonalos and Janelle Ayne C. Sarmiento and Clarizel Joy Jamille R. Gomez and Diane Joy V. Garino https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
FACTORS DRIVING COOPERATIVE ENTREPRENEURSHIP: AN EXPLORATORY INVESTIGATION
This research aims to explore the factors driving cooperative involvement in cooperative entrepreneurship. A qualitative research method with a case study approach was used to collect research data through interviews with semi-structured questions and observations. Five informants representing cooperatives from different regions in Malaysia (central, northern, eastern, southern and east Malaysia) participated in the study. The findings reveal that board members and cooperative members are involved in entrepreneurial activities in Malaysia. The factors driving cooperative entrepreneurial activities include the presence of an entrepreneurial mindset, entrepreneurial leadership, relationships and social networks, as well as assistance and support. A key insight from the study is the recognition of the significance and benefits of cooperative entrepreneurial activities in enhancing cooperative business and providing benefits to members and the community simultaneously. The mindset and leadership of the board members and cooperative management play a crucial role in propelling entrepreneurial activities for the success of a cooperative. It is essential to enhance relationships, social networks, and stakeholder assistance and support to strengthen entrepreneurial activities and drive the cooperative movement in Malaysia. Cooperative entrepreneurship contributes to reinforcing and encouraging member participation in entrepreneurial activities.
Copyright (c) 2024 Mohd Shahron Anuar Said and Azmaliza Arifin and Sharina Abdullah and Norhayati Abdul Rahman and Nur Anizah Aziz and Mohd Razalie Raffae https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
THE IMPACT OF MEMBER PARTICIPATION ON COOPERATIVE PERFORMANCE: A SYSTEMATIC LITERATURE REVIEW
This study reviews the literature on the factors that influence the effectiveness of cooperatives, with a specific focus on member participation. Twenty-eight research articles published in Scopus and the World of Science database between 2013 and 2024 were assessed using the Preferred Reporting Items for a Systematic Review approach. The findings across various industries and regions consistently indicate a favourable relationship between member participation and the cooperatives’ performance. The interactions among members’ participation and other variables, such as governance structure, were also observed to enhance performance. The study emphasises the significance of encouraging active member participation to improve cooperatives’ overall performance and long-term sustainability. Accordingly, it offers valuable insights to policymakers and co-operators into the complex relationship between member participation and performance, facilitating the development of evidence-based strategies to ensure the cooperatives’ success.
Copyright (c) 2024 Nur Ain Atika Arman and Shayuti Mohamed Adnan and Wan Zanani @ Zalani Abdullah https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
DRIVING GROWTH: ESSENTIAL ELEMENTS FOR MICRO COOPERATIVES ECOSYSTEM IN MALAYSIA
This study represents a significant stride in comprehending the critical success factors essential in Malaysia's growth ecosystem of micro cooperatives. A cooperative growth ecosystem is a systematic understanding of what helps cooperatives thrive and achieve a scale that positively impacts the cooperative. Therefore, this study is conducted to identify the critical element contributing to the potential growth of micro cooperatives in Malaysia. A thorough survey was undertaken using a questionnaire approach. A Structured Equation Model (SEM) was employed to test causal paths between dimensions for a sample of 225 members of micro cooperatives across Malaysia. The results of exploratory factor analysis (EFA), confirmatory factor analysis (CFA), and reliability analysis are empirically proven and confirm critical success factor items for essential elements (EPU). The study uncovers a total of 21 essential elements. Among these, the most crucial is strengthening capabilities and skills, which must be implemented in Malaysia's micro cooperatives' growth ecosystem. The study underscores the necessity for micro cooperatives in Malaysia to fortify these critical success factors to enhance cooperative performance. This study not only acts as a catalyst by acknowledging the significance of the ecosystem in amplifying the potential of micro cooperatives but also makes a substantial contribution to the field by providing a comprehensive understanding of the critical success factors in Malaysia's micro cooperatives, thereby laying the groundwork for future research and inspiring further exploration in this domain.
Copyright (c) 2024 Nor Arma Abu Talib and Amalina Ibrahim and Nurul Fadly Habidin and Hasrin Abu Hassan and Yusman Yacob https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
LEVEL OF KNOWLEDGE IN THE FIELD OF FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT FOR MICRO AND SMALL COOPERATIVES IN MALAYSIA
As crucial drivers of a nation's economic advancement, cooperatives must possess relevant understanding and proficiency in financial management to ensure continuous and progressive development. This research, therefore, holds significant implications for the cooperative sector in Malaysia. It aims to assess cooperatives’ level of knowledge on financial management, focusing on five specific scopes: working capital management, budget management, capital management, financial reporting, and financial information systems. A questionnaire (quantitative method) was used as a data collection instrument, and 221 treasurers, assistant treasurers, and relevant management personnel from micro and small cooperatives participated in the survey. The research findings, which categorise cooperatives via different zones across Malaysia, indicate that the most complex topic is working capital management, followed by financial information systems. In contrast, budget management and financial reporting are perceived as simple topics with no challenging elements. These findings underscore the need for immediate action to enhance the knowledge and practices of the cooperatives in specific financial management topics, particularly in the areas of working capital management and financial information systems.
Copyright (c) 2024 Farahaini Mohd Hanif and Roziah Mohamed and Rosmalina Che Yakzam and Adila Hashim and Siti Nuraini Abu Bakar and Azianti Ismail https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
KNOWLEDGE MANAGEMENT FACTORS IN INCREASING COOPERATIVE EFFECTIVENESS
Knowledge management (KM) is a process of managing explicit knowledge assets, potentially explicit and tacit, owned by an organisation. The knowledge owned by the cooperative's staff enables it to be governed well to achieve its aims. There are many factors shown in the previous studies that affect the effectiveness of an organisation. Nonetheless, the lack of studies related to KM in cooperatives has caused the implementation level and practice model of KM and its relationship with cooperative effectiveness to be unknown. This research views the cultural, governance structural and technological factors and develops the Knowledge Management Practice of the Medium Cluster Cooperative Model. This research employed purposive sampling in which cooperative samples were divided into fragments based on the functions of each state with the highest earnings, and only medium cluster cooperatives were selected as respondents. The SmartPLS v.3.2.9 analysis proves that knowledge management practice among medium cluster cooperatives in Malaysia is still high, particularly in the structural, cultural, and technological aspects of governance that impact organisational effectiveness, highlighting the positive findings of the research.
Copyright (c) 2026 Malaysian Journal of Co-operative Studies
MANFAAT KOPERASI TERHADAP KESEJAHTERAAN NELAYAN DI TERENGGANU (The Role of Cooperatives in Enhancing the Well-Being of Fishermen in Terengganu)
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.
Copyright (c) 2025 Ammar Yasmin Amran and Norfatiha Othman and Abdul Rahman Abd Latip and Nor Hayati Sa’at and Siti Salina Abdullah and Mohd Khairi Ismail and Nor Hanim Awang@Mohd Noor and Muhamad Nazir Shah Mohd https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0/
ASSESSING THE FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT GUIDANCE NEEDS OF COOPERATIVE BOARD MEMBERS: A MIXED-METHODS APPROACH
Financial management is a crucial aspect of the operation and success of cooperatives. However, according to previous studies, one of the main challenges faced by cooperative board members (CBMs) lies in the field of financial management. A lack of understanding of financial management can lead to failure in managing assets and financial resources, thereby decreasing the overall efficiency of the cooperative. In line with the need to achieve cooperative success, CBMS need to receive appropriate guidance in financial management. Therefore, this study aims to assess the specific guidance needed in the field of cooperative financial management. This research adopts a mixed-methods approach, utilizing survey questionnaires and focus group interviews as data collection tools. Data were collected from 221 respondents through survey questionnaires, while 14 informants participated in focus group interviews to provide deeper insights. The findings identified 12 guidance needs, namely capital management, budget management, working capital management, performance analysis, financial reporting, marketing, accounting system handling, inventory management, financial management, risk management, governance, and accounting system recording, all of which require serious attention and immediate action. The outcomes are expected to inform policy-makers and training institutions, such as the Cooperative Institute of Malaysia (IKMa), in designing programs that strengthen the financial management practices of cooperatives, thereby contributing to their sustainability and growth.
Copyright (c) 2025 Farahaini Mohd Hanif and Rosmalina Che Yakzam and Roziah Mohamed and Adila Hashim and Siti Nuraini Abu Bakar and Azianti Ismail https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0/
EMPOWERING YOUTH ATTITUDE AND PARTICIPATION THROUGH COOPERATIVE KNOWLEDGE
Cooperatives serve as a democratic and inclusive business model, offering economic and social opportunities for individuals across all age groups, including youth seeking career development through internships and active participation. Despite substantial financial and non-financial support from governments and their recognized role in socioeconomic development, empirical evidence indicates persistent underperformance in many cooperative sectors. This study investigates how cooperative knowledge shapes youth attitudes and, ultimately, their intention to engage in the cooperative movement. By applying the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB) as a theoretical lens, we assess how awareness and understanding of cooperatives influence youth perceptions and participation willingness. Data were collected via a structured survey of 200 Malaysian youth, with 147 valid responses analyzed using Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modelling (PLS-SEM) in SmartPLS 4.0. The results demonstrate that cooperative knowledge significantly enhances youth attitudes toward cooperatives, strengthening their intention to participate in the movement. Furthermore, subjective norms and perceived behavioral control moderate this relationship, highlighting the importance of social and institutional support. These findings contribute to the literature MALAYSIAN JOURNAL OF CO-OPERATIVE STUDIES 136 on youth engagement in alternative economies and provide actionable insights for policymakers, educators, and cooperative leaders seeking to foster youth involvement.
Copyright (c) 2025 Nelson Lajuni and Yusman Yacob and Jati Kasuma Ali and Mohd Shahron Anuar Said and Jaibit Jaudin https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0/
ADVANCING SOCIAL SUSTAINABILITY: A REVIEW OF CHALLENGES AND OPPORTUNITIES FACING WOMEN'S COOPERATIVES IN MALAYSIA
This article explores the critical role of women's cooperatives in advancing social sustainability within the Malaysian context. Women's cooperatives have emerged as vital platforms for promoting economic inclusion, enhancing entrepreneurial capacity among women, and supporting community-based development activities. The increasing number of registered women's cooperatives in Malaysia reflects a positive trend toward inclusive and sustainable growth. However, these women's cooperatives face various challenges, including limited access to resources, inadequate leadership training, evolving market demand, and technology advancements. This article review synthesises existing literature and empirical insights to identify the key barriers and opportunities encountered by women's cooperatives in Malaysia in their pursuit of social sustainability through achieving their social and economic objectives. Despite these challenges, the post-COVID-19 business environment presents new opportunities for transformation through digital innovation, strengthened social networks, social marketing programs, leadership development, and capacity-building initiatives. The article emphasises the importance of a strategic marketing framework aimed at fostering sustainable, women-led cooperative socio-economic development in Malaysia. This study adopts a systematic literature review (SLR) approach in synthesising the relevant research findings and articles on the topic of social marketing in the context of women cooperatives. SLR approach aims to explore the conceptualization and the development of social sustainability framework within the broader context of social marketing. MALAYSIAN JOURNAL OF CO-OPERATIVE STUDIES 158
Copyright (c) 2025 Nur Faeza Yahya and Nurul Fadly Habidin https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0/
EXPLORING DIGITALISATION ADAPTATION PRACTICES AMONG SMALL AND MEDIUM CLUSTER COOPERATIVES IN PENINSULAR MALAYSIA
This study employs a qualitative research approach to explore digitalisation adaptation practices among the management of small and medium cluster cooperatives in Peninsular Malaysia. It examines the tools, platforms, and processes involved—including social media marketing, payment systems, online management systems, and e-commerce platforms—while investigating the factors influencing adaptation and the challenges faced. The study selected seven small and medium cluster cooperatives, each having implemented digitalisation for a minimum of two years, using purposive sampling. One key informant per cooperative, typically a board member or manager, participated in face-to-face interviews conducted using a structured protocol. Data were analyzed using NVivo software through a rigorous coding process to generate thematic findings aligned with the study’s objectives. Based on these findings, a framework for digitalisation adaptation capabilities was developed to support small and medium cluster cooperatives in Peninsular Malaysia. This framework provides contributions across four key dimensions: theoretical, methodological, empirical, and practical, thereby strengthening digitalisation adaptation efforts among cooperatives.
Copyright (c) 2025 Afizah Abdul Jalal and Vronica Kumang Lawrence and Norsyeirawani Shari and Intan Nur Azreen Mohd Radzi https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0/
THE INFLUENCE OF DEMOGRAPHIC FACTORS ON LEADERSHIP STYLES IN MALAYSIA’S APEX COOPERATIVE: AN EMPIRICAL ANALYSIS
Although leadership styles have been widely studied, research within the Malaysian cooperative sector remains limited. This study assessed the impact of management backgrounds on leadership styles in the Malaysian apex cooperative using ANOVA and t- tests. Results showed that, except for tenure of service, background factors did not significantly affect leadership styles. The findings suggest that experience and maturity should be prioritized over specific leadership philosophies when promoting managers in cooperatives. While these results offer valuable insights, further research is needed to understand leadership dynamics in this sector fully.
Copyright (c) 2025 Mohd Abdul Hamid Hashim https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0/
TRAINING THE RIGHT PEOPLE FOR THE RIGHT ROLES: A HUMAN CAPITAL APPROACH TO COOPERATIVE HOMESTAYS IN MALAYSIA
Cooperative homestays in Malaysia offer a unique community-based tourism model that promotes cultural immersion and rural economic empowerment. The effectiveness and sustainability of such ventures depend mainly on the capabilities of those managing and delivering services—namely, coordinators, hosts, and entrepreneurs. This study explores the role-specific training needs of these roles, to enhance human capital development across cooperative homestays. A quantitative approach was employed, involving 132 respondents from 32 registered cooperatives. Data were collected via structured questionnaires and analyzed using SPSS Version 29. Findings reveal significant variation in training participation across roles and experience levels, with entrepreneurs being the most actively engaged. Tourism- related training emerged as the most attended and most valued, while management training, particularly among coordinators, remains underutilized. Notably, the study found there is no consistent correlation between training frequency and cooperative income, suggesting the influence of broader external and internal factors. To address the identified gaps, a Role-Based Training Selection Guide is proposed to support more strategic and tailored training delivery. This study offers practical insights for policymakers, cooperative leaders, and training institutions committed to building Malaysia's more resilient and responsive cooperative tourism sector.
Copyright (c) 2025 Arfizawati Abd Hadi and Hajar Azwin Mohamad Ashi and Juliana Md Yusop and Norul Hayatie Hashim https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0/
THE MEDIATING EFFECT OF TRUST ON VALUE CO-CREATION BEHAVIOR AND MEMBERS' LOYALTY IN CONSUMER COOPERATIVES: A PROPOSED CONCEPTUAL FRAMEWORK
In recent decades, researchers have increasingly focused on value co-creation behavior, especially in the retail industry, where it is considered a key factor for growth and long-term sustainability. Although much of the existing research has concentrated on exploring the dimensions and antecedents of value co-creation, there is still a significant gap in understanding its impact on relational marketing aspects. Applying the service-dominant (S- D) logic and social exchange theories, this paper presents a conceptual framework for value co-creation behavior, trust, and member loyalty, with a particular focus on consumer cooperatives in Sarawak. While previous studies have investigated the relationship between value co-creation behavior and member loyalty, there is a lack of research specifically examining the mediating role of trust, particularly in the context of the consumer cooperative sector. Furthermore, the application of these concepts within the context of cooperatives in developing markets remains largely underexplored. To bridge this gap, this conceptual paper seeks to propose a value co-creation behavioral framework that integrates trust and member loyalty, analyzed within the context of consumer cooperatives in developing markets.
Copyright (c) 2025 Akmal Nashren Abd Malik and Yusman Yacob and Jati Kasuma Ali https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0/
EMPIRICAL RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN GOVERNANCE AND FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE OF KOOP SAHABAT
This study investigates the relationship between governance practices and financial performance at Koperasi Sahabat Amanah Ikhtiar Malaysia (Koop Sahabat) Berhad, a prominent Malaysian cooperative. Previous research has linked cooperative failures to poor governance, financial mismanagement, and a lack of member involvement. The primary aim of this study is to examine how board governance influences financial outcomes and to provide practical recommendations for improving cooperative performance. Adopting a quantitative design and case study approach, the research analyses Koop Sahabat’s annual reports from 2018 to 2022. Descriptive and Pearson correlation analyses are employed to assess the relationships between board size, gender diversity, meeting frequency, and financial performance indicators. The findings reveal that board size has no significant effect on financial performance, whereas gender diversity and meeting frequency positively influence financial outcomes. These results suggest that incorporating diverse perspectives and conducting frequent board meetings improve decision-making and enhance management effectiveness. Overall, the study underscores the critical role of gender diversity and meeting frequency in driving financial performance, boosting competitiveness, and ensuring the long-term sustainability of Koop Sahabat.
Copyright (c) 2025 Shamsuri Salleh and M. Azali https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0/