DOSM and SKM sign MoU to boost cooperative data sharing, research, and training, aiming for more accurate national statistics and policy planning
KUALA LUMPUR: The Department of Statistics Malaysia (DOSM) and the Malaysia Co-operative Societies Commission (SKM) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to enhance strategic cooperation.
The agreement focuses on data sharing, statistical research, human capital development, and consultancy services for the cooperative sector.
Chief Statistician Datuk Seri Dr Mohd Uzir Mahidin said the MoU opens a new chapter for improving national cooperative data through transparent exchange.
“This initiative is aimed at ensuring the production of more accurate, comprehensive, and reliable cooperative statistics through data sharing,” he said at a press conference after the signing at Menara SKM.
He added that the collaboration supports the upcoming Economic Census, which will cover over 1.2 million business entities including more than 10,000 active cooperatives.
It will also help coordinate and standardise cooperative data according to the Malaysia Standard Industrial Classification.
The partnership includes training, briefings, and officer exchanges to boost analytical and statistical dissemination skills in both agencies.
Mohd Uzir said SKM’s cooperative data will enable granular analysis for evidence-based policy planning.
SKM chief executive officer Datuk Noor Afifah Abdul Razak highlighted the sector’s significant economic role, with over 15,000 registered cooperatives and RM68 billion in revenue this year.
“We need more detailed data to measure the real impact on GDP, employment and the value chain,” she said.
The collaboration will help assess the cooperative movement’s success and identify areas for improvement, including market stability and food security.
The MoU will also explore cooperatives’ role in promoting youth development and grassroots entrepreneurship.
A Technical Implementation Committee will be established to draft a detailed action plan following the signing.
Initial findings are expected to be included in the national economic report in the first quarter of next year.
Malaysia recently ranked first globally in the Open Data Inventory 2024/25, rising from 67th place previously.
Public access to data catalogues and visualisations is available through the OpenDOSM NextGen portal. – Bernama
