CCo-operator - Singapore National Co-operative Federation
←
→
Page content transcription
If your browser does not render page correctly, please read the page content below
C Co-operator
EDITORIAL
Dear Co-operators
Looking back at our lives before COVID-19, many of you have shared how you miss
the ways you used to engage members and work with one another. Indeed, due to
the pandemic, we have had to suspend many of our activities and in many cases,
found new approaches to deliver our services.
During the Circuit Breaker, Phases 1-2 and now Phase 3 of COVID-19 reopening,
many of our co-operators have rolled out innovations to deliver services and even
reach out to serve the vulnerable communities. These are not just smart ways to
continue our operations, but also demonstrated a zeal to serve and to do it safely.
Some of these efforts may become a feature of our lives going forward, with terms
like phygital being the new way of operation.
In a post-COVID world, we need to continue to strengthen
existing capabilities and build new ones. The power to act
together will bring us far and help us emerge stronger as
a one co-operative movement. To this end, we are working
with the Registry of Co-operative Societies to come up with
initiatives that will strengthen the co-operative movement
further and look forward to your support.
Co-operatives are stronger together.
Ang Hin Kee
CEO, Singapore National Co-operative Federation
C ONTENTS
ISSUE APRIL 2020 - MARCH 2021
02 Editorial 17 SNCF 14th Triennial General Assembly
03 Emerging Stronger Together With Co-ops! The Virtual Creathon 2021 Experience
04 Co-ops Meet COVID-19 Challenges Head-On 18 Ang Hin Kee, NTUC's Assistant Director-General,
07 Know Our Co-ops Series To Helm SNCF
10 Enhanced CCF Grant Framework Tng Ah Yiam, First Deputy Chairman Of SNCF,
Appointed As Its New Chairman
12 Know Our Co-ops Series
19 Changing Hands At RCS
14 Digitalisation: Co-op 4.0
SNCF Turns 40!
Adapting To New Norm
20 New Co-ops & Their Social Causes
15 Three Things Credit Co-operatives Are Doing In The
Digital Space Now
16 In Remembrance Of Kwek Kok Kwong Follow us @sncfsg
Posthumous Co-operative Champion Award To
Dr R Theyvendran
Singapore National Co-operative Federation | 510 Thomson Road, #12-02 SLF Building, Singapore 298135 | +65 6602 0747 | contactus@sncf.org.sg
2 I C
SNCF welcomed the year together with over 80 co-operators
in its first virtual event of the year. Themed “Emerging
Stronger Together with Co-ops”, the event aimed to
Rounding off the
recognise co-operatives’ efforts in overcoming the event was the luck
segment where fiv y draw
challenges brought by COVID-19 pandemic, as well as e lucky winners wa
away with a $50 lked
encourage co-operatives to soldier on. NTUC e-voucher.
cluding
o os te r boxes in of
Energy b okies in support t
a jar of c o s n
e
e G e n F und were
ISCOS R all affiliates.
to
C I 3
Co-ops Meet COVID-19 Challenges
Head-On
The COVID-19 has brought health pandemic and impacted the economy. It has also disrupted lives and businesses
worldwide. Co-operatives (co-ops) around the world are coming together to protect workers, members, users and
community at large. Here are just some ways that co-ops in Singapore are fighting the pandemic.
CARING FOR EMPLOYEES CARING FOR MEMBERS
Daily temperature screening for staff, office disinfection, Members’ welfare is also top on the mind of our co-ops.
use of hand sanitisers, travel history check and Straits Times Co-op gave out a one-time special payment
temperature taking for all visitors, split work and one-metre of $50 to staff and members who have been with them for
apart seating arrangement were some measures taken by at least one year while Singapore Government Staff (SGS)
SNCF and the co-ops. Credit Co-op added a COVID Circuit Breaker support sum
in the form of additional dividends to their members.
Some co-ops like Premier Security Co-op and
SecureGuard Co-op went the extra mile by paying for the SGS Credit Co-op also introduced a Micro Loans scheme
accommodation for their Malaysian workers affected by where members can go online to apply for loans of up to
Malaysia’s Movement Control Order (MCO). $400 instantly. Straits Times Co-op allows its members to
defer loan repayment up to six months. TCC Credit Co-op
Ngee Ann Polytechnic Consumer Co-op got together with postponed loan repayments and waived late penalties for
Ngee Ann Polytechnic, Ngee Ann Polytechnic Academic members in the aviation industry till 30 June 2020. It also
Staff Union (NPASU) and Singapore Manual & Mercantile offers COVID relief loans to help members tide over during
Workers’ Union (SMMWU) to gift every staff a care pack this trying period.
that carried items such as hand sanitiser and Vitamin C to
keep them well and healthy.
Photo credit: Ngee Ann Polytechnic
Consumer Co-operative
Photo credit: TCC Credit Co-operative
4 I C
Taking care of members’ health and well-being is equally CARING FOR COMMUNITY
important. Our co-ops continue to contribute to the larger community
even during this trying period. For example, Seacare Co-op
RunningHour Co-op, which promotes the integration of offers discounts for Malaysians staying in Singapore during
people with special needs through sports, takes its classes Malaysia’s MCO at the Seacare Hotel.
online and streams weekly Zumba and circuit training
classes, as well as a running session with warm-ups done When it comes to ‘Doing Good’, Singapore Statutory
via Facebook Live, to help their members continue to Boards Employees’ Co-op shows the way by donating over
stay active at home and connected to the RunningHour 10,000 masks in partnership with GP+ Co-op to thank
community during this circuit breaker period. migrant workers affected by the COVID-19 pandemic.
SNCF collaborated with Hagar Singapore, an NGO through
To stay connected with its members, Silver Caregivers Migrant x Me, a social enterprise, to distribute the masks
Co-op organised online tea sessions. to migrant workers who are staying in the Westlite Mandai
dormitory.
Singapore Statutory Boards Employees’ Co-op also
presented a Chinese New Year gift pack of groceries and
red packets to 170 households in Jalan Kukoh, an estate
made up mostly of rental flats in early February 2021.
Likewise, TCC Credit Co-op in December 2020 brought
smiles to residents of 50 households at Block 124 Kim
Tian Place with bonding time and gifts of food essentials.
Straits Times Co-op donated $1,000 to Mind the Gap Fund
to support the households that are affected by COVID-19.
NTUC FairPrice Co-op pledged up to $500,000 to provide
aid to charitable organisations serving the less privileged
and vulnerable. FairPrice Group, comprising NTUC
FairPrice Co-op, NTUC Foodfare Co-op and Kopitiam, also
provided another $378,000 to support the less fortunate
and healthcare workers, including $120,000 worth of MILO
beverages to hospital healthcare workers.
Photo credit: RunningHour Co-operative
Photo credit: Singapore Statutory Boards Employees’ Co-operative
C I 5
Helping workers to sharpen their skills or develop new To cheer the frontline workers and community, SNCF
ones become even more important during this time. sponsored and led 250 students from nine Coop Clubs to
NTUC LearningHub Co-op offers training support and free pack snack hampers and pen their own appreciation in
online courses as well as support to prepare individuals self-made thank you cards to frontline workers as a form of
to transition to new job roles. appreciation and encouragement in February and March
2020.
Mercatus Co-op offered rental support and an assistance
package to help its retail tenants defray costs and Over 30 hampers were delivered to healthcare
safeguard jobs. professionals and frontline workers working in public
hospitals, national public health institute and Immigration
NTUC First Campus Co-op, apart from creating interactive & Checkpoints Authority.
home-based learning resources and parent guides on its
one-stop portal, absorbed 50% of the net fees payable Industrial and Services Co-op Society (ISCOS) launched
for Singaporean children enrolled in My First Skool, ISCOS Steady Notes #StaySteady to help and encourage
The Little Skool-House and The Caterpillar’s Cove who the community during this COVID-19 pandemic,
are not attending pre-school during the circuit-breaker while GP+ Co-op helped the public to post words of
period. Not just that, under the Co-op’s Digital Kampung encouragement to healthcare workers via social media and
Programme, more than 2,000 iPads were loaned out to support the mental health of healthcare workers.
low income families.
On National Day in 2020, a group of changemakers from
NTUC Income Insurance Co-op is providing additional A Good Space Co-op launched the #SGGratitudePack
COVID-19 cover at no additional premium to close to campaign in hopes of encouraging Singaporeans
27,000 individuals insured by Income’s Personal Accident to repurpose their National Day Parade Funpacks by
plans and over 500,000 employees of organisations replacing items in the bags with essential items for our
insured by its Group Employee Benefits policies. It is migrant worker community.
also supporting lower-income households by extending
COVID-19 benefits to the Income Family Micro-Insurance Istoria Co-op took their storytelling via photography
Scheme, and has been offering full refunds for customers workshop on Zoom with Silver Horizon Co-op and Regent
wishing to cancel their travel insurance due to the Secondary Coop Club (supported by Seacare).
COVID-19 situation.
These are just some of the initiatives carried out by the
co-ops to support the community during challenging
times.
Co-ops are BETTER TOGETHER indeed.
Photo credit: NTUC LearningHub Co-operative Photo credit: ISCOS
6 I C
KNO
W
OU
CO- R
Know Our Co-ops Series
OPS
Co-operatives have been an integral part of shaping Singapore, touching the lives of more than 1.4 million members.
Co-operatives were birthed out of shared needs, responsibility and commitment to each other and to the society, and
were amongst the earliest community self-help organisations to take root in Singapore.
Know Our Co-ops series aims to let our affiliates get to know each other better; appreciate each other's good work; and
encourage conversations which can lead to collaboration. After all, we are in the same business to make a difference.
Co-operative Thrift and Loan Society
Photo credit: The Singapore Police
Undated photograph of Co-operative officials posed at the Central Police Headquarters at South Bridge Road.
Singapore’s First Co-op for Uniformed Personnel Today, 90 years later, the Police Co-op, which was
in the Singapore Government Service renamed the Singapore Police Co-operative Society
(SPCS) in 1993, still remains relevant to the needs of
The Singapore Police Co-operative Thrift and Loan its some 13,000 members.
Society (Police Co-op), the first co-operative for
uniformed personnel in the Singapore Government Located at Sims Avenue, it offers a wide range of
Service, was registered on 18 August 1926 with savings schemes with one of the best interest rates in
85 members. Its founding objective was to provide town. There are also different loans that cater to the
members with financial assistance at affordable rates. different needs of its members. Members also enjoy
The members were also encouraged to save. 24-hour phone banking service, Common Good Fund,
scholarship and bursary grants, subsidies for social
Beyond fulfilling its fundamental role as a credit functions and more.
co-operative, the Police Co-op served its members
with different welfare initiatives. For example, in 1953, The co-operative is upholding its motto - “we care,
the Silver Jubilee Scholarship Fund was launched to we listen, we help”, while working towards its
aid the children of co-operative members who were mission to be “choice co-operative” and living out
killed in action during the Malayan Emergency or who its vision of adding value to the well-being of its
were otherwise incapacitated and invalidated out of the stakeholders.
service.
C I 7
KNO
W
OU
CO- R
OPS
Photo credit: Premier Security Co-operative
Singapore’s First Security Co-operative The agency was first housed at the Police Welfare
Division in Lady Hill Road but moved to a bigger
Foresight, ingenuity and a strong commitment to premise at the Golden Wall Auto Centre in Short Street
raising the standard of security brought two key in 1985. Today, Premier Security Co-operative has its
co-operatives together to birth a solution – the setting own 5,000 square feet office at 33 Sam Leong Road.
up of Singapore’s first security co-operative.
The Co-operative prides itself in offering a wide range
In 1984, the Singapore Police Co-operative and the of services such as security guard services, security
Singapore Government Credit Co-operative pooled their audits, cash in transit services, professional advisory
resources together to start a new business, the Premier and consultancy services, goods escort and patrol
Security Co-operative. car services, and security training courses. Its vast
industry expertise includes commercial buildings,
The idea of providing job opportunities for retired casino security, dormitories, data centres, government
police, army and other uniformed officers and to raise infrastructures and institutions, public transport sector
the professional standard of security services was too and more.
compelling to ignore.
The Co-operative also maintains an unwavering focus
“It was a good move that we went into a business which on its people. It puts the needs of its members and
we were familiar with. We knew we had to take risks like staff first before profits. For instance, Premier Security
in any business. The success of NTUC co-operatives Co-operative has been providing housing support
inspired us to push ahead. for its Malaysian employees since the Malaysian
Movement Control Order (MCO) took effect on 18
Premier Security Co-operative and other players have March.
made Singapore a safe and secure nation. The low crime
rate and peace of mind did not happen by chance. “Premier Security Co-operative has set itself apart by
We have played a big role. We cannot take security for its ability to combine the valuable experience and
granted,” said Mr Eugene Wong, Former Police Deputy knowledge of retired police and other uniformed
Assistant Commissioner and Chairman of the first Board officers with its stellar security protocol, across various
of Directors, Premier Security Co-operative. industries, to the satisfaction of its clients. The result
is a tightly-knit, highly effective trained personnel
Started with two security officers, Premier Security with an unmatched wealth of skill and experience
Co-operative now employs over 300 officers, and which relentlessly serves its clients’ needs,” said
majority of them are retired uniformed personnel from Mr William Seak, Managing Director, Premier Security
the police, civil defence or armed forces. Co-operative.
8 I C
KNO
W
OU
CO- R
OPS
Source: Freepik.com
A Co-operative for PMETs and Beyond possible pathways that are better suited to current realities.
The role that the Singapore Professionals’ and Executives’ New opportunities are presenting themselves such as
Co-operative (SPEC) plays in helping members adapt to flexible work arrangements. For example, working for
the challenges in the new economy is more timely now only one employer, a norm of the past, is being replaced
than ever. by working for a range of organisations who need the
professional’s services and expertise.
Established in the year 2000 by the Singapore Human
Resource Institute, SPEC then had the immediate SPEC collaborates with trade and business associations,
task of helping professionals, managers, executives, employers, unions and the government to co-create new
businessmen and the self-employed (PMEBS) who were opportunities including job openings, business ventures and
displaced from their jobs during the 1998 Asian financial more. The Co-operative also runs professional conversion
crisis to seek gainful economic activities. programmes for senior Singapore Citizen Professionals,
Managers, Executives and Technicians (PMETs) to acquire
Today, with several waves of restructuring hitting the new skills to move to the next station of their career.
workforce due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the
Co-operative gears itself up to extend meaningful Courses such as Solving Performance Problem Coaching
and practical support to its members through its and Counselling; Relationship Building-Communication
re-employment services, such as, corporate placement, and Motivation, and RMC Management Consulting were
talent matching, career coaching and social networking organised recently to upskill the PMETs and help them
opportunities. enhance performance and value add to the team.
On another front, much of its work is in helping members To help its members ride over unforeseen transitions
overcome psychological barriers. For the workplace in their working life, SPEC offers insurance schemes
today is a very different one. It is perpetually undergoing with portable benefits. Purchased as an individual, the
changes at an unprecedented rate. Technology is insurance plan is not only portable; its premiums are kept
changing the nature of jobs. low; and the benefits are comprehensive.
An industry that has been around for decades can A new economy co-operative, SPEC is constantly evolving
disappear, or be transformed. A professional who so as to be a dynamic and efficient source of help for its
has been displaced would go knocking on door after members to thrive and seek gainful economic activities,
door, attempting to re-enter the trade on the same including employment. Its vision is to achieve connectivity
terms he had enjoyed previously, and he is likely to be with its members, thus enhancing and enriching social
disappointed. The Co-operative helps nudge him towards capital in Singapore for the progress and prosperity of
thinking differently about expectations and shows him their family and at the workplace.
C I 9
Enhanced CCF Grant Framework
With effect from 1 April 2020, the Central Co-operative Fund (CCF) Grant Framework has been enhanced, following a
joint review by SNCF, as the CCF Secretariat, and the Registry of Co-operative Societies.
While driving for digital transformation, co-operators are encouraged to leverage the various CCF grants to help improve
their co-operative’s operations, save cost and provide better services to their members.
The CCF Grant Framework is made up of four components:
• CCF Development Grant
• CCF Training Grant
• CCF Special Grants
• New Co-op Grant
CCF DEVELOPMENT GRANT
To help enhance co-operatives’ capabilities,
governance and operational efficiency, the CCF
Development Grant will be available every year. It
provides co-funding (at 80%) to co-operatives to
cover various qualifying expenses.
The total amount of CCF Development Grant to
be claimed by a co-operative each year is capped
according to the applicable Tier A, B or C. The
tiering is based on the co-operative’s latest CCF
Contribution.
The CCF Contribution Tiers are as follows:
Co-operatives with positive net worth and made contributions to the CCF
Contribution Tier Contributions to the CCF
Tier A up to $25,000
Tier B above $25,000 and up to $200,000
Tier C above $200,000
A co-operative with revenue of up to $1 million, negative net worth and/or did not contribute to the CCF (due to operating
deficits) for its latest audited financial statements may still claim for statutory audit expenses and outsourced accounting
services (80% co-funding and capped at $2,000 for each item).
CCF TRAINING GRANT
The CCF Training Grant provides funding of courses,
seminars and conferences to help co-operative
officers improve their knowledge and learn relevant
skills for the running of their co-operative.
Courses must be relevant to the co-operative's
business, and the CCF Secretariat has the right to
reject claims for courses that are deemed irrelevant.
10 I CCCF SPECIAL GRANTS
The CCF Special Grants provide co-funding for
specific schemes and projects.
They comprise
• Legal Services Grant
• Outsourced Internal Audit Grant
(credit co-operatives only)
• Minimum Competency Training Grant (for approved
credit co-operative officers only)
• PDPA Grant
CHANGES TO THE PERSONAL DATA PROTECTION ACT (PDPA) GRANT
The PDPA Grant has been revised with effect from 1 February 2021, which incorporated feedback from the co-operatives
since its introduction, and at the ‘Emerging Stronger Conversation with Co-operatives’ held in November 2020. Key
changes are as follows:
Before 1 February 2021 With effect from 1 February 2021
Applicable to credit co-operatives only Applicable to All co-operatives
Qualifying Expenses: Qualifying Expenses:
• consultancy and audit • PDPA-related training
• legal advice • consultancy and audit
• application fees and assessment fees for the DPTM • legal advice
• application fees and assessment fees for the DPTM
• The Co-operative is not receiving or has not received • The Co-operative will be eligible to apply for
any grant from a government agency and/or other 80% of the unfunded balance amount of expense
organisation for the same expense item. under the PDPA Grant where the expense item is
partly funded by other grant(s).
DPTM refers to the Data Protection Trustmark (issued by Infocomm Media Development Authority).
CCF NEW CO-OP GRANT
The CCF New Co-op Grant is available to newly-
registered co-operatives (i.e. grant application is within
24 months from the co-operative’s registration date).
The grant supports the initial set-up costs and
operating expenses for up to three years and can be
used to offset expenses such as:
• Capital expenditure - e.g. office equipment
• Operating expenses - e.g. staff cost relating to start
the co-operative
• Other support areas - e.g. areas of expertise and
support, endorsement, referral aspects of the
business but will be subject to the CCF Secretariat’s
approval
C I 11KNO
W
OU
CO- R
OPS
Photo credit: Singapore Shell Employees Union
Singapore Shell Employees' Union Co-operative who need short term loans. For a loan of $1,000,
the repayment period is 5 months and interest free.
The world is facing a time of unprecedented Other loans include personal loan, marriage and child
uncertainty. The COVID-19 pandemic has created a assistance loan, education loan, and renovation
chaotic whirlwind of prolonged economic uncertainty. loan.
Despite the difficulties, co-operatives like the
Singapore Shell Employees’ Union Co-operative Ltd To encourage savings, the monthly contribution
(SSEU Co-op) continue to focus on helping members ranges from a minimum of $10 to maximum of
manage and weather through the current situation. $1,500. The savings account is currently offering an
interest rate of 1.50% per annum. The saving balance
Registered on 31 August 1990, SSEU Co-op was after withdrawal is a low $20.00. To its members,
set up with the Singapore Shell Employees' Union, a benefits like this stretches their every hard-earned
trade union representing the bargainable and junior dollar.
executive staff of Shell companies in Singapore
as its founder members. The principal activity of With thrift and loan business as the core of its primary
the Co-operative is to encourage thrift by receiving existence, it is imperative that SSEU Co-op stands tall
deposits from members and to prevent permanent by practising good corporate governance. It cleared
indebtedness by enabling them to obtain loans on the recent audit under a stringent level of scrutiny by
reasonable terms. It operates on the concept of the auditors with no qualifications. SSEU Co-op also
self-help. SSEU Co-op also operates an employment passed the test on business viability signalling that
services agency, supplying temporary and contract the Co-operative is strong financially, and resilient
staff to Shell and Shell related companies. enough to tide through the various business and
economic scenarios.
Amidst the pandemic, the Co-operative continues
to offer highly attractive patronage rebates to the Despite the economic choppy waters, co-operatives
already superior loan interest rates that are available like SSEU Co-op are demonstrating that they can
to members for unsecured loans. rise above the storm with integrity and empathy.
Co-operatives exist to benefit members and help
They innovate with new offerings like micro-loans in improve their lives.
2019 that offer the market edge to help members
12 I CKNO
W
OU
CO- R
OPS
ACSI Co-op student members with memorabilia and collectibles
ACSI Students’ First Foray Into Business The ACSI Co-op fits right into the equation in building
such resilience and total character in the students. It
For a group of Anglo-Chinese School (Independent) takes learning out of the classroom into the ‘real world’
students, their first foray into the business world starts of running a co-operative business where self-help,
with serving their fellow students for a good cause. self-responsibility, democracy, equality, and solidarity
are celebrated; and honesty, openness, social
They are members of the Anglo-Chinese School responsibility and caring for others are inculcated.
(Independent) Multi-purpose Co-operative Society (ACSI
Co-op), which was registered on 11 May 2001 with For two hours a week during term time, the student
the aim of meeting the students' economic needs and co-operators take turns to run the bookshop. From
welfare through values of self-help and mutual help. accounting to marketing, from stock taking to sales, the
students from Year 1 to Year 4 learn the nuts and bolts
These student co-operators man the school’s bookshop of retail management. They are able to kickstart their
three days a week. Located at the Student Activity knowledge about the co-operative movement and gain
Centre, the bookshop sells books and stationeries as invaluable experience running a co-operative first hand.
well as ACS memorabilia and collectibles, ranging from The experience will also help them to have a better
key chains to ceramic mugs and from socks to toy understanding of the co-operative model - do well and
bears. do good.
The values and principles of a co-operative that place Along the way, the older students pick up leadership and
people, rather than, profit at the centre of business, entrepreneurial skills as they lead, guide and coach their
inspire the students to not only run a business in a juniors, imparting their knowledge of co-operatives and
sustainable way, but to do so to meet a social need organisational skills. All hands are on desk as they learn
as all sale proceeds are channelled to the Student to work together and for each other to ensure that the
Welfare Fund. The more money ACSI Co-op makes, the bookshop not only survives but thrives.
more the students give back to the school community.
The co-operative learning goes beyond the school
The school takes great pride in offering a “holistic compound. The Singapore National Co-operative
education that provides students with a broad Federation (SNCF) arranges for the students to go on
and deep foundation for lifelong learning and the various learning journeys to co-operatives and exhibitions
development of values and life skills in each child”. to expose, educate and engage the students in building
The school’s two-CCA policy is aimed at empowering a better world, or as the school upholds, to nurture
the students to “discover their strengths, interests and students to be of service “for God and Humanity”.
talents and equip them to handle challenges they may
face later in life”. As the school motto says, “The best is yet to be”.
C I 13Digitalisation: Co-op 4.0
COVID-19 has accelerated the push for digitalisation.
Working from home has become a new norm. With
digitalisation, your co-operative can be more efficient and
effective. The word Digitalisation may sound intimidating.
These are some steps to take to help your co-operative
embrace a digital future.
Define Objectives
• Do you have any manual work processes that could be
automated?
• Can digital solutions help enhance interaction with
members and employees as well as deliver excellent
customer experience at the same time?
These objectives enable you to kickstart a digitalisation
project, zooming into specific areas that are in need for
Source: Freepik.com
enhancement.
Set Digital Goals
You can break down the objectives further by setting smart
goals.
Staff productivity can be improved by automating manual With the know-hows, employees can be empowered to
processes. For example, instead of recording new members’ carry out their tasks confidently, be the key drivers of
details manually, you can provide an online form for members change and bring the co-operative to a greater height.
to fill in and their data can be automatically captured and
stored in the system. This can help improve productivity as Track Performance
staff can be channelled to focus on other tasks. A system or platform which your co-operative has
implemented may not actualise its full potential if there is
If your co-operative has already implemented digital no tracking of performance. Tracking its performance will
solutions, you can consider adding more functions. reveal the success rate of your executed plan.
For example, integrating analytics to have a greater
understanding of your member behaviours which can help Have business processes become seamless? Has the
you to better serve their needs. overall customer satisfaction rate increased?
Train Employees If you have the answers to your digital goals, you will know
Your digitalisation project may be actualised, but it will how to adjust the course and innovate further.
not be successful if your staff are not trained on how to
use the systems. Every individual’s knowledge on using Your business shouldn’t be hindered by a pandemic. We
technology differs. should always think how the online sphere can help sustain
our business plans. When seizing the opportunity of
Do ensure that your staff is equipped with the right skills to digitalisation, consider both operational improvements and
operate the systems, in order to optimise your digitalisation plan. effective customer touchpoints.
Adapting To Topics Date
New Norm
Zoom & Adobe Sign Jun 2020
Zoom & Adobe Sign
Jul 2020
Digital Marketing Fundamentals
COVID-19 is changing the way we live,
Cyber Security for Co-ops Webinar Aug 2020
work and interact at a pace that was
unimaginable to many people at the Enhanced CCF Grant Framework Sep 2020
beginning of 2020.
New Normal for HR: Achieving Employee Engagement Oct 2020
To help co-operatives embrace digital Digital Reboot Programme Nov 2020
transformation, SNCF planned a series
Strengthening Your Wellness & Resilience Dec 2020
of online sharing sessions on digital
and health related topics throughout Learn To Design Using Canva Mar 2021
FY2020.
14 I CThree Things Credit Co-operatives
Are Doing In The Digital Space Now
COVID-19 has disrupted the old ways and accelerated the VIRTUAL ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING
pace of digital transformation, as customers and members Annual general meetings (AGMs) are critical events for
begin to actively adopt technology in their daily lives. co-operatives as they promote member engagement,
People who prefer brick and mortar and would never have governance, and transparency.
gone digital have to learn to adapt to the new normal in
the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic where technology Credit co-operatives traditionally hold AGMs face-to-face to
has become key for example safe entry scanning, online build strong relationships with their members. However, in
banking, virtual annual general meeting and so forth. 2020, virtual AGMs became the new normal as credit
co-operatives sought to minimise COVID-19 transmission
ONLINE FACILITIES risks. Prior to AGM, unique login details are sent to
To better meet changing customer needs, credit members who have registered for the event. Members
co-operatives have been gradually investing in new who have sent their questions via email in advance of the
technologies to keep in touch with members. meeting would have their questions addressed. Citiport
Credit Co-operative, Singapore Teachers’ Co-operative
Internet Banking Society, Police Credit Co-operative are some examples of
While the office remains open albeit on a more limited credit co-operatives that implemented virtual AGMs.
basis especially during the circuit breaker period, credit
co-operatives are still accessible by phone or internet. VIRTUAL ENGAGEMENT WITH MEMBERS
Credit co-operatives such as TCC Credit Co-operative As we see the amount of time people spend online per
(TCC), AUPE Credit Co-operative (AUPE) and Singapore day almost equivalent to the time that we spend sleeping,
Statutory Boards Employees' Co-operative Thrift and Loan reaching out to members via online means is an important
Society (SSBEC) have an online portal for members. Login step to engaging them. Spending more time in the digital
details will be required to access the services including space has also become the new normal while we do our
online banking facilities. part to adhere to safe distancing measures.
Banking Apps By now, we are no stranger to virtual meetings. TCC
Some credit co-operatives like SSBEC and AUPE introduced held virtual sessions with its members to stay close to
mobile app for members. Apart from offering convenience, them. Such initiatives allow for two-way communication
leveraging technology also allows credit co-operatives to between the members and the co-operative while keeping
offer a personalised and seamless customer experience members abreast of happenings in the co-operative.
with the analytics provided, thereby strengthening member The co-operative can also engage its members by
engagement. understanding their needs and well-being, via real-time
video call which adds a personal touch.
Online Payment
Online payment is another feature some co-operatives On top of existing eBanking and mobile banking facilities,
have tapped on. The Singapore Government Staff Credit SSBEC has also implemented a corporate Whatsapp
Co-operative (SGS) allows members to make electronic number where its members can reach out to the
payment through platforms such as PayNow and NETSPay, co-operative, thereby providing members with greater
while POLWEL Co-operative has an eCommerce platform convenience. Any enquiry, feedback or update can also
which allows members and public to make online be easily shared via the same channel, creating a more
purchases conveniently. engaging environment.
Photo credit: TCC Credit Co-operative
Photo credit: Singapore
Teachers' Co-operative
C I 15In Remembrance Of
Kwek Kok Kwong
SNCF is deeply saddened by the sudden passing of As a member of the
our Chairman Kwek Kok Kwong or KK, as he was fondly International Co-operative
known among us, on 14 November 2020. Alliance (ICA) Global Board
and ICA-Asia Pacific Board,
KK was a thoughtful and passionate advocate of the KK had actively forged closer
co-operative movement. Since becoming SNCF Chairman relations and strengthened ties
in September 2016, he had played a significant role in between Singapore’s co-operative
the development and strengthening of the co-operative movement and regional and international co-operatives.
movement in Singapore. He tirelessly advocated for
greater collaboration among co-operatives, and for youth KK firmly believed that in today’s globalised world, where
engagement. businesses thrive because of cross-border collaboration,
co-operatives should co-operate across borders to grow
KK firmly believed that the co-operative movement is a bigger and stronger. To this purpose and as a strong
force of do well and do good. Under his leadership, SNCF advocate of learning, SNCF under his leadership hosted
relentlessly advocated for greater collaboration among and organised many exchanges with co-operative
co-operatives and with other partners in areas like leaders from countries such as Iran, South Korea, India,
supporting the silver generation and engaging people to and Malaysia. His passing was mourned by people in
“make a difference” in all we do. Equally important to KK the international co-operative movement with many
was staying forward-looking and ensuring that the young remembering him as a person with strong commitment,
talent of tomorrow embrace the co-operative’s unique model and a sense of utmost responsibility towards the global
of business. KK recognised that many businesses including co-operative movement as seen from the outpouring of
co-operatives had been adversely affected by the COVID-19 condolence and tribute for KK.
pandemic. He thus led SNCF to work with the Registry of
Co-operative Societies to come up with measures to help KK will be warmly remembered for his contributions to the
co-operatives better respond to the challenges. Co-operative Movement.
Posthumous Co-operative
Champion Award To
Dr R Theyvendran
Dr R Theyyendran, who was fondly known as Denan, was Mr M. Lukshumayeh, a
a co-operative pillar, visionary and veteran businessman. representative from TCC
He served in different leadership capacities in the Co- Credit Co-operative said:
operative Movement including stints as First and Second “Having had the opportunity to
Deputy Chairman as well as Credit Sector Chairman of have worked closely with Dr Denan for
SNCF, Chairman of TCC Credit Co-operative and Chairman more than a decade, I saw how he helped and assisted
of SecureGuard Security Services Co-operative Ltd. all who came to him as he wanted every person or entity
to climb up and excel as he did it. He guided, persuaded
The late Dr Theyvendran worked closely with the SNCF and at times even pushed but he did this all with one
to balance the needs of the credit sector and their purpose and that was to ensure that person/entity rose up
compliance to regulations. He had also been supportive of the ranks by using his/their fullest capabilities and abilities.
all initiatives rolled out not only for the credit sector but for He never let anyone to fall. His care and concern for fellow
the whole co-operative movement. beings was unparalleled. He was a true blue co-operator
who lived, breathe and walked the motto of co-operatives
SNCF Chairman Mr Tng Ah Yiam said: “I have known to help and in my humble view one would never see
Denan for years as we were in the Exco together. A another like him.”
very dynamic person with passion, Denan lived by the
motto that co-operatives are here to help people. He For his contributions to the co-operative movement, SNCF
firmly believed that for co-operatives to grow, we need presented the The Co-operative Champion Award to Dr
to innovate, set new goals continuously and watch our Theyvendran posthumously. The Co-operative Champion
costs. The co-operative movement has lost a strong and Award was specially to recognise respected individuals
dedicated leader but his contributions will be remembered.” who championed the co-operative mission.
16 I CSNCF 14th Triennial
General Assembly
SNCF held its first-ever virtual Triennial General Assembly Staff Credit Co-op, Mr Allan
(TGA) on 3 September amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Tok from the Singapore
Attended by over 50 representatives from affiliated Teachers’ Co-op, and
organisations, the late Chairman Kwek Kok Kwong Mr Mike Chian from the
recapped the steps taken by the Co-operative Movement Love Empowered Co-
to do good and do well together from FY2017 to FY2019. op. SNCF also recorded
its appreciation to Mr
SNCF welcomed four new members to the SNCF Exco Richard Zaccheus and Mr
– Ms Thian Ai Ling from the NTUC First Campus Co- Mike Thiruman for their
op, Mr John Raghavan from the Singapore Government commitment and dedication during their term of office.
The Virtual Creathon 2021
Experience
More than 500 youth competed in Singapore’s only solutions to address social and economic challenges
co-operative social enterprise business challenge. Back facing Singapore today. At Creathon 2021, Urban Origins,
for its second run, Creathon provides a platform for local Life Changers and Fortino emerged Winning Team for
enterprising youth to collectively come up with innovative Open, IHL and School Categories respectively.
C I 17Ang Hin Kee, NTUC's Assistant
Director-General, To Helm SNCF
Seasoned unionist Ang Hin Kee became the Chief Executive of the Singapore National
Co-operative Federation (SNCF) on 1 November 2020, succeeding Ms Dolly Goh.
Mr Ang's appointment is concurrent with his current roles as the Assistant Director-General of
the National Trades Union Congress (NTUC), and its Director of Operations and Mobilisation.
Mr Ang brings to SNCF more than 15 years’ experience in working closely with the ground to
ease employment and employability concerns. Most recently, from May 2011 till June 2020,
he was the Member of Parliament in the Ang Mo Kio Group Representation Constituency.
In taking over the SNCF baton, he will be steering a co-operative movement that has been
rooted in Singapore for more than 95 years, and whose resilience and adaptability is yet
again being tested by the sudden, widespread changes from COVID-19. Brick by brick, the
Mr Ang Hin Kee,
co-operative movement has helped build the nation by providing affordable daily essentials,
newly appointed education and training, healthcare, financial services, recreation, and employment opportunities, as well
CEO of SNCF as increase inclusion of the less advantaged, such as the elderly and vulnerable.
Mr Ang said, “Co-operatives exist to benefit members and help to improve lives.
COVID-19 underscores the social role of co-operatives in helping members tide
over difficult times from holding prices of everyday essentials to providing special
loans, monetary and other forms of donations. In sharing a common set of values and
principles to enhance the cohesiveness of society, co-operatives have shown again
and again the power of Singaporeans working together to ride out the fiercest storms.”
Tng Ah Yiam, First Deputy
Chairman Of SNCF, Appointed
As Its New Chairman
Mr Tng Ah Yiam has been appointed Chairman of SNCF. Previously SNCF’s First Deputy Chairman, Mr Tng took over the
Executive Council position from the late Mr Kwek Kok Kwong.
Mr Tng continues to work closely with the board and management of SNCF to promote and develop the strategic direction
of the Singapore Co-operative Movement.
On his new appointment, Mr Tng said: “Co-operatives have come a long way,
helping to improve lives since its early days by tackling social issues
and supporting members through difficult times. Our co-operative
values such as mutual help and co-operation are even more relevant in
this current climate. Besides working together with our co-operatives
to create more value, opportunities and impact for our members and
the broader community, I also look forward to continuing Kok Kwong’s
work in advocating for collaboration and youth engagement to help
businesses and upcoming generations embrace and embody the unique
business model of co-operatives to do good and do well.”
Mr Tng is also the Chief Procurement Officer at FairPrice Group, comprising NTUC
FairPrice Co-operative, NTUC Foodfare Co-operative, Kopitiam and NTUC Link.
Mr Tng Ah Yiam, newly appointed
Chairman of SNCF
18 I CChanging Hands At RCS
Mr Desmond Chin is the Commissioner of Charities (COC) On behalf of Singapore Co-operative Movement, SNCF
and Executive Director, Registry of Co-operative Societies would like to thank Dr Ang for his support over the years
and Mutual Benefit Organisations (RCS) from 1 November, and wish him the best in his new portfolio.
taking over from Dr Ang Hak Seng. Dr Ang will continue to
be the Ministry of Culture, Community and Youth’s (MCCY) We would also like to take this opportunity to welcome
Deputy Secretary (Special Duties), leading the ministry’s Mr Chin and look forward to working with him to
efforts in growing Singapore Cares, the national movement continue to build a stronger and resilient co-operative
to foster a more caring, compassionate and inclusive society. movement.
Mr Desmond Chin
In Mr Chin's message to co-operatives for the "Emerging
Stronger with Co-ops 2021" event organised by SNCF,
he said: "At the Emerging Stronger Conversation
held in November last year, we have shared with
one another how we have adapted and overcome
the challenges from COVID-19.
Photo credit: MCCY
There were also many ideas on how we can chart
the way forward for the co-operative sector. Dr Ang (second from right) mingling
with the co-operators at the 2020
We will continue to work with you and SNCF to SNCF New Year Reception.
further strengthen capabilities and support the
co-operatives. Together, we are stronger."
SNCF Turns 40! $1,000 to purchase 40 food packs of 10 items, which
include coffee, tea, biscuits, vermicelli, and canned
meats, fish and vegetables for the FFTH Community
Smiles lit up our faces as staff and scholars celebrated Food Pack programme. The programme helps the
SNCF’s Ruby Anniversary on 17 September 2020 by less-fortunate put food on the table and offset their living
expending both time and money to support Food from the expenses.
Heart’s (FFTH) Community Food Pack programme. FFTH is
a non-profit organisation that feeds the needy through its As part of the celebration, SNCF gave away 40 goodie
food distribution programme. bags to its Facebook and Instagram followers who
provided the correct answer in a contest and tagged a
In addition to sorting and packing over 300 food goodie friend.
bags, SNCF staff and scholars pooled together over
Two lucky winners walked away with a limited edition
SPF200 Framed Badges of Past to Present SPF Vehicles
and Lightbox of the Old Hill Street Police Station (worth
$80.90!). The winners were selected based on the most
likes to their comments - one each on Facebook and
Instagram. The gifts are sponsored by the POLWEL
Co-operative.
C I 19In 2019, SNCF started a new initiative to engage more industry
partners to create greater awareness about co-operatives.
A series of awareness talks with industry partners such
as Institute for Adult Learning, Action Community for
Entrepreneurship, Singapore Federation of Chinese Clan
Associations and UBE Singapore were conducted and in
process, new co-operatives were formed.
A Co-operative for Changemakers by Changemakers
A Good Space is Singapore’s first
co-operative to gather diverse
changemakers, activists, dreamers, social
entrepreneurs, charities and more, to
create change for the social issues and
communities we care about, together.
Registered in March 2020, A Good Space
Co-operative believes that many new
Photo credit: A Good Space Co-operative
possibilities can be unlocked by coming
together as a co-operative. It has three
main social impact aspirations:
• create a nourishing environment for
changemakers to sustain their projects
and flourish
• deepen collaboration and
accountability amongst diverse
changemakers
• bring changemaking to the workplace
Platform Co-operative for Field Service Business
Agape Energy Efficiency Co-operative, registered in
July 2020, holds on to the mission to embrace, train,
Photo credit: Agape Energy Efficiency Co-operative
empower and nurture entrepreneurship among the
unemployed, midcareer changers and youth-at-risk, as
well as to save energy and fight against climate change
in a sustainable manner.
Through the co-operative model, Agape Energy Efficiency
Co-operative aims to reduce recidivism and offer financial
stability to members and their families by providing
technical education leading to certification and work
opportunities. The Co-operative also conducts talks on
energy efficiency and audits as part of their community
outreach to raise awareness about sustainable energy.
Singapore’s First Hairdressing Co-operative
In February 2020, Singapore's first hairdressing co-operative, Helmet and
The Penguin (HATP) was registered with the objectives of providing affordable
hairdressing services to senior citizens at nursing homes; and vocational
training and employment opportunities for the disadvantage group like
Photo credit: Helmet and The
youth-at-risk, single mothers, people with disabilities and ex-offenders.
Penguin Co-operativeYou can also read
