The State of Women's Co-operatives in Malaysia: Challenges and Opportunities

Abstract

This article provides a comprehensive examination of the current landscape of women's cooperatives in Malaysia, focusing on their status, challenges, and potential avenues for improvement. Despite a growing interest in fostering women's economic empowerment, various obstacles such as limited financial access, cultural barriers, and inadequate skill development programs impede the optimal functioning of these co-operatives. The objectives of this article include assessing the present state of women's co-operatives, identifying challenges, exploring key improvement factors, and establishing connections with Goal No. 5 of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and Malaysian entrepreneurship and women's empowerment policies. The discussion emphasizes the importance of financial inclusion, capacity building, and advocacy for gender equality as essential components for enhancing women's co-operative performance. By aligning co-operative development strategies with national policies and the SDGs, Malaysia can foster an environment that not only supports the growth of women-led co-operatives but also contributes significantly to the overarching goal of achieving gender equality and empowering women. This article calls upon educators, policymakers, and community leaders to collaboratively work towards creating an inclusive and sustainable environment conducive to the flourishing of women's co-operatives in Malaysia.