Malaysian Cooperatives Have Potential to Strengthen ASEAN Health and Education Cooperation
Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, Datuk Mohamad Alamin, stated that the cooperative sector in Malaysia has great potential to enhance cooperation in the fields of health and education at the ASEAN level. He emphasized that the active involvement of cooperatives can help strengthen economic and social ties between member countries.
According to him, this initiative not only benefits the people of Malaysia but is also capable of contributing to more sustainable regional development. Cooperation in health and education is seen as a strategic step to collectively address future challenges faced by ASEAN nations.
In a related development, trade data shows active economic relations between this region and international partners. For example, the total trade in goods between Ukraine and ASEAN in 2024 reached approximately US$2.75 billion. This figure consists of Ukrainian exports to ASEAN amounting to US$1.12 billion and imports totaling US$1.63 billion.
Although the focus is on international trade relations, strengthening the domestic cooperative sector remains a priority to ensure inclusive economic growth. The government hopes that local cooperatives can take this opportunity to expand their cooperation networks to the international level.
In conclusion, the involvement of the cooperative sector in regional cooperation is a positive step for Malaysia. With continued support, this sector is expected to be able to play a greater role in driving progress in the fields of health and education in the ASEAN region.