There are seven principles governing co-ops.
Co-ops are voluntary organisations, open to all persons who are able to use their services and willing to accept the responsibilities of membership, without gender, social, racial, political or religious discrimination.
Notwithstanding the above, the eligibility of an individual's admission into a co-op's membership is confined within the criteria as set out in the individual co-op's constitution and the laws of the jurisdiction.
Co-ops are democratic organisations controlled by members, who actively participate in setting their own policies and decision making. This means members vote on policies passed and vote for elected representatives.
All members contribute equitably to their co-op’s capital. Generally, part of the co-op’s capital is common member property. Usually members get limited compensation for the subscribed capital given as condition of their membership.
Surplus capital may be allocated for any, or all, of the following:
Members of Co-ops are responsible for their own governance, subject to the legislation and any orders by the Registry. If they make agreements with other organisations, they do so on terms that ensure democratic control by their members and their co-op autonomy.
Co-ops provide education and training to their members, elected representatives, managers and employees so that they can contribute to the development of their co-ops.
Co-ops serve their members most effectively and strengthen the co-op movement by working through local, national, regional and international structures.
While focusing on members’ needs, co-ops work for the sustainable development of their communities through policies approved by the members.
Registry of Co-operative Societies
Ministry of Culture, Community and Youth
140 Hill Street, #02-00
Old Hill Street Police Station
Singapore 179369
Tel (hotline): 6837 8537
Fax: 6837 8090
Email: MCCY_regcoop@mccy.gov.sg
Operating hours: Monday - Friday: 8.30am to 5.30pm (closed on Saturdays, Sundays and public holidays)
The apex body - Singapore National Co-operative Federation
Members of dissolved co-ops who:
may still be able to make claims to the Registry of Co-operative Societies for up to 2 years from the date of cancellation of registration of their respective co-op. Monies unclaimed after 2 years from the date of cancellation of registration of a co-op shall be carried to the Co-op Societies Liquidation Account, which would be applied to the furtherance of co-op principles or transferred to the Central Co-op Fund.
Members should complete and mail this letter to the Registry of Co-operative Societies, together with a photocopy of their NRIC (both sides) to make their claims before the end of 2 years from the date of cancellation of registration of their respective co-op.