Kuala lumpur: The Department of Statistics Malaysia (DOSM) and the Malaysia Co-operative Societies Commission (SKM) today signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to strengthen strategic collaboration in data sharing, statistical research, human capital development, and consultancy services related to the cooperative sector. Chief statistician Datuk Seri Dr Mohd Uzir Mahidin said the MoU marked a new chapter in enhancing the country's cooperative data through more transparent data exchange, in accordance with the Statistics Act 1965 and the SKM Act 2007.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, this initiative aims to ensure the production of more accurate, comprehensive, and reliable cooperative statistics through data sharing, as well as the refinement of concepts and classifications in line with international standards such as the International Standard Industrial Classification (ISIC). Mohd Uzir highlighted that the MoU also supports the implementation of the Economic Census, which will cover more than 1.2 million business entities, including over 10,000 active cooperatives, while assisting DOSM and SKM in coordinating and standardising cooperative data according to the Malaysia Standard Industrial Classification (MSIC).
Mohd Uzir added that the collaboration includes training, briefings, and officer exchanges to improve analytical skills and statistical dissemination capabilities in both agencies. Furthermore, the list and data of cooperatives from SKM would provide valuable input for granular analysis, thus supporting evidence-based policy planning and improving the consistency of cooperative data at both national and international levels.
Meanwhile, SKM chief executive officer Datuk Noor Afifah Abdul Razak emphasized the significant role of the cooperative sector in the country's economic growth, with more than 15,000 registered cooperatives and revenues reaching RM68 billion this year. He noted the need for more detailed data to measure the real impact on GDP, employment, and the value chain. Collaboration with DOSM will help identify the success of the cooperative movement and areas for improvement, including market stability and food security.
The MoU will also explore the role of cooperatives in promoting youth development and entrepreneurship at the grassroots level, including in schools and higher learning institutions. A Technical Implementation Committee will be established to draft a detailed action plan, with initial findings expected to be incorporated into the national economic report in the first quarter of next year.
Malaysia recently ranked first globally in the Open Data Inventory (ODIN) 2024/25, according to the latest report by Open Data Watch, rising from 67th place in the previous edition.