BENCHMARKING THE ANGKASA COOPERATIVE: INSPIRATION FOR HEALTH WORKERS' COOPERATIVES IN INDONESIA

Abstract

ANGKASA Cooperative (Angkatan Koperasi Kebangsaan Malaysia Berhad) stands as a successful national secondary cooperative model in Malaysia, demonstrating effective management across diverse business sectors through professional governance and collaborative approaches. This study aims to explore the potential application of ANGKASA’s best practices for health workers’ cooperatives in Indonesia. A qualitative approach was employed, utilizing benchmarking and literature analysis to examine institutional structures, operational strategies, and service delivery mechanisms. Findings indicate that ANGKASA’s success is anchored in four key pillars: business diversification, flexible financial systems, digitalization of services, and continuous member education. These elements have enabled sustainable growth, enhanced member engagement, and improved service efficiency. The study suggests that adapting these practices can significantly strengthen the institutional capacity and service quality of health workers’ cooperatives in Indonesia. Strategic recommendations include enhancing governance frameworks, investing in digital infrastructure, expanding healthcare-related business portfolios, and fostering cooperative education programs. By emulating ANGKASA’s integrated and member-centered model, Indonesian health cooperatives can advance toward greater financial sustainability and social impact. This paper contributes to the discourse on cooperative development in the health sector by offering a practical cross-national benchmarking framework. The insights provided may inform policymakers, cooperative leaders, and stakeholders seeking to improve healthcare delivery and economic resilience among health professionals through cooperative empowerment.