Exciting Day at the Carnival, MoU between Cooperatives

By AVV

3 August 2024

PENAMPANG: The State Level National Cooperative Day 2024, launched by the Minister of Entrepreneur Development and Cooperatives (MEDC), Datuk Ewon Benedick at ITCC Shopping Mall here today, witnessed several cooperatives signing memorandums of understanding (MoU) for collaborative initiatives.

The Minister witnessed the signing of the MoU between Dato' Ahmad Sobri Wan Teh, the Chairman of the Cooperative of Malay Officers of Malaysia Berhad (MOCCIS), and Mohd Nor Abu Bakar, the General Manager of MOCCIS to sign the MoU with Government Employees Cooperative of Sabah Berhad (KOPEKS) represented by its chairman, Dr. Saat Ag. Damit, and Buvil Angkui as the Executive Officer.

Gold Cooperative of Tawau Sabah Berhad (KOPEMAS) represented by Kamariah Ahmad as the Chairman and Ceanry Ayub as the Secretary also signed an MoU with MOCCIS.

Heritage Cooperative of Penampang Berhad (KO-PUSAKA) James Kenson as the Secretary and Connie Pudin as the Treasurer also signed an MoU with MOCCIS.

Another cooperative that signed with MOCCIS was Cooperative for the Development of Advanced Community Ventures Sabah Berhad (KOP-PUSAMAJU) represented by Miridzuan Dato' Seri Dr Hj Arsit as the General Manager and Mohd Ramlan Mohd Soon as the Secretary.

Meanwhile, many participants of the carnival held in conjunction with the celebration expressed their excitement and excitement in participating in the event.

Naida Hussin, who showcased the fertilizer produced by Koperasi Baja Harapan Sabah, expressed her enthusiasm for the event, highlighting the opportunity it provided to network with fellow cooperative members. She emphasized that the event was a fantastic initiative as it allowed cooperative members to explore various opportunities and expand their connections within the cooperative community.

Rahini Oyoh, the founder of Rins Enterprise and an aspiring entrepreneur associated with AIM from Kota Kinabalu, shared her enthusiasm for the two-day event. Specialising in producing snack foods using her unique recipes, she is eager to showcase her products to increase their visibility in the market. She expressed her gratitude to the cooperative movement for providing her with the opportunity to sell her goods at the event venue.

Jimsai Japar, the Operations Manager of Kinabatangan Rainforest and Wildlife and representative of Koperasi Pelancongan Mukim Batu Puteh Kinabatangan Bhd (KOPEL), expressed his delight at participating in the carnival. He highlighted that his cooperative is deeply involved in the tourism sector, offering a range of attractions that promote cultural integration, wildlife observation, and the beauty of remote scenic locations.

Jimsai extended his gratitude to MEDC Minister Datuk Ewon Benedick for his efforts in uniting cooperatives and their members through the carnival and related activities. He also acknowledged the valuable services provided to cooperative members by various entities under the minister's ministry, which further supports the growth and sustainability of the tourism industry in the region.

Asmadi Putih, the chairman of Koperasi Usahawan Madina Berhad based in Semporna, proudly shared that his cooperative specialises in producing dried yellow noodles, with a unique focus on seaweed noodles. He expressed optimism that their participation in the carnival would provide valuable exposure for their distinctive products.

Asmadi conveyed his gratitude for the opportunity to be part of the event, thanking MEDC and its agencies for organising the carnival, which facilitated networking among various cooperatives. He recognized the importance of such events in fostering collaboration and promoting local businesses within the community.

Rose Irawati, representing Koperasi Sosodikon Hill, said their products are many and diverse such as handicrafts, flowers, vegetables, tourism activities, hiking, and homestay accommodations. She noted that most of the cooperative's members are involved in the homestay sector.

She expressed her excitement about participating in the carnival and the opportunity to network with other cooperatives. She believes such interactions are vital for sharing ideas and fostering collaboration within the community.

Datin Esther Sikayun, the Chairperson of Koperasi Usahawan Peniaga Inanam Berhad (Koupio), expressed her excitement about sharing her unique coffee blend, which combines coffee beans with cactus. She noted that her product has been well received and expressed her gratitude for the opportunity to showcase it at the carnival.

Esther also took a moment to thank Minister Datuk Ewon Benedick for his unwavering support and for officiating at the carnival, which she believes plays a significant role in promoting local products and fostering community engagement.

The first day of the carnival, held in conjunction with National Cooperative Day, was a resounding success, attracting hundreds of visitors who flocked to various exhibitions to sample products and explore available services. The event will continue until Sunday, August 4th.