100 Voices from Co-operators
Ang Hak Seng
Professor
Singapore University of Social Sciences
Singapore University of Social Sciences
Empowering people, Strengthening communities
In the past, co-ops played a pivotal role in people’s lives, serving as self-help groups that addressed a wide range of needs—from providing affordable groceries to offering straightforward loans. Today, co-ops continue to be a vital part of Singapore’s social fabric. They have transcended their initial focus on meeting the immediate needs of their members to supporting their personal growth and development.
In an era characterised by uncertainty, resilience will be paramount. For organisations, fostering resilience involves cultivating community engagement through a harmonious blend of top-down guidance and bottom-up participation. Top-down leadership provides clear direction, while bottom-up involvement instils a sense of ownership and shared responsibility.
The co-operative model exemplifies this equilibrium in action—led by the people, for the people, and with the people. This unique structure enables organisations to maintain focus, adaptability, and a profound connection with the evolving needs of the community. Consequently, the co-operative model is well-positioned to maintain its relevance and impact well into the future.
In an era characterised by uncertainty, resilience will be paramount. For organisations, fostering resilience involves cultivating community engagement through a harmonious blend of top-down guidance and bottom-up participation. Top-down leadership provides clear direction, while bottom-up involvement instils a sense of ownership and shared responsibility.
The co-operative model exemplifies this equilibrium in action—led by the people, for the people, and with the people. This unique structure enables organisations to maintain focus, adaptability, and a profound connection with the evolving needs of the community. Consequently, the co-operative model is well-positioned to maintain its relevance and impact well into the future.
Check out our other voices
U Dharshini
Co-operative Relations & Solutions Partner,
Singapore National Co-operative Federation
Industrial Relations Executive,
Amalgamated Union of Public Employees
SNCF Scholar
Farhana Binte Nordin
Senior Executive
AUPE Credit Co-operative Ltd
Vincent Ng
Founding Member
A Good Space Co-operative
Koh Yan Ping
Chief Executive Officer
Singapore Council of Women’s Organisations
Alex Shieh
Head, Co-operative Relations & Solutions
Singapore National Co-operative Federation
Ang Hin Kee
Chief Executive Officer
Singapore National Co-operative Federation
Audrina Tan
Associate Psychologist (Case Manager)
NTUC Health Co-operative Limited
SNCF Scholar
Edwin Tong
Minister for Culture, Community and Youth
& Second Minister for Law
Prabha C Seth
Chief Executive Officer
Customs Credit Co-operative Society (Singapore) Ltd
A glimpse into the stories and reflections from co-operators as the Movement celebrates a century of collaboration and unity. SCM 100 Voices provides insights into the impact on communities and highlights our lasting legacy of shared purpose.