KOTA SAMARAHAN: The cooperative movement in Sarawak is encouraged to focus on the agro-tourism sector, which holds significant potential to contribute to the state’s economic growth and strengthen the socioeconomic well-being of rural communities.
Batang Sadong MP Rodiyah Sapiee said agro-tourism plays an important role in promoting agricultural products, natural attractions and community-based experiences, which are increasingly gaining attention from both local and international visitors.
She also emphasised that the sector can add value to agricultural activities when farms, orchards and plantations are turned into tourism attractions.
“This approach creates more economic opportunities through new jobs and increased sales of local products,” she said during the Agro-Tourism: Potentials and Opportunities to Strengthen Cooperative Economy programme held here yesterday (Dec 9).
Rodiyah, who is also a member of the Board of Directors of the Malaysian Cooperative Commission (SKM), stressed that cooperatives have tremendous potential to become drivers of the nation’s economic growth.
As such, she urged cooperatives to identify high-impact activities, conduct market research and meticulous planning, and collaborate with experts to explore new opportunities in agro-tourism, food production and community services.
She added that integrating agriculture and tourism could generate products and services that are more relevant, competitive and market-ready.
“With this approach, I am confident that cooperatives can strengthen their positions within their respective sectors and increase their contribution to the state’s economic development,” she said.
Rodiyah highlighted the achievements of the cooperative movement in Sarawak, which now consists of 1,204 cooperatives with assets worth RM713.30 million and a turnover of RM261.87 million as of 30 June 2025.
Of this total, 316 cooperatives are involved in the agricultural sector, reflecting the collective strength of the cooperative movement in dominating specific markets in the state.
The programme also witnessed the presentation of mock cheques to three cooperatives in support of their respective business development efforts.
Koperasi Penduduk Daerah Asajaya Berhad received RM13,600 to cover part of the cost of purchasing fertiliser and repairing crops at the Cooperative Transfer Centre affected by floods.
Koperasi Sungei Marong Agro Farm Samarahan Berhad received RM12,500 to support the cost of managing and promoting its products and services in the hospitality industry.
Meanwhile, Koperasi Kampung Lubok Punggor Simunjan Berhad received RM146,000 to partially fund the upgrading of its retail shop building and storage facilities.
Rodiyah called on all cooperatives to make full use of the assistance and development opportunities provided under the Agro-Tourism programme as a platform to enhance management skills, strengthen marketing strategies and expand collaboration networks with relevant agencies.
