Ministry of Cooperatives Partners with Al Washliyah to Develop Sharia-Based Cooperative Enterprises

Jakarta – The Ministry of Cooperatives has entered into a partnership with the Islamic organisation Al Jamiyatul Washliyah through the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to develop cooperative enterprises, particularly sharia-based cooperatives, as part of efforts to improve community welfare.

The MoU was signed by Cooperative Minister Ferry Juliantono and Al Jamiyatul Washliyah Chairman Masyhuril Khamis in Jakarta on Friday.

The collaboration focuses on institutional strengthening, cooperative business development, sharia cooperative management models, and improving literacy, education, outreach, and human resource capacity.

“Sharia-based cooperatives are an important component in supporting the direction of national development policy,” Ferry said in a statement.

The Cooperative Minister added that sharia cooperative education will be implemented through the Village/District Cooperatives (Kopdes) Merah Putih, a national movement to establish community-based cooperatives in every village. He expressed hope that Al Washliyah would play an active role in supporting this programme.

“With its exceptional network and track record, this collaboration will bring tangible benefits for improving the welfare of rural communities whilst building a strong, sustainable, and equitable foundation for local economic development,” he said.

Ferry emphasised that cooperatives do not belong solely to the Ministry of Cooperatives, but rather constitute a state movement based on the principles of familial spirit, togetherness, and mutual cooperation. He therefore considered partnership with religious and community organisations to be important.

He expressed hope that synergy between government policy and the strength of the Al Jamiyatul Washliyah community could create villages that are independent, inclusive, and prosperous.

Al Jamiyatul Washliyah Chairman Masyhuril Khamis welcomed the partnership. He explained that the organisation, which was established in Medan in 1930, has long focused on social and religious affairs, including establishing schools, Islamic boarding schools, and universities. However, over the past five years, the organisation has also begun operating in the economic field through cooperative institutions.

“We hope this collaboration can truly be implemented in line with the government’s vision,” Masyhuril said.