For Vernon Khoo, co-operatives aren’t just structures on paper or names in a registry; they’re real lifelines. His journey with the Singapore Co-operative Movement began with the Industrial & Services Co-operative Society (ISCOS), where he served as a Board member and eventually with the Board of Trustees. There, he witnessed how the co-operative provided vital support to ex-offenders and their families, helping them rebuild their lives. “Given the opportunity to help make lives better was a rewarding experience which I found very fulfilling,” he says. Now, as the newly appointed Chairman of the Central Co-operative Fund (CCF) Committee, also known as CCFC, Mr Khoo’s commitment is to support Singapore’s co-operatives in practical and meaningful ways.

Having spent 16 years with ISCOS, Mr Khoo is deeply familiar with the challenges ex-offenders face when re-entering a society that often views them with suspicion or fear. Within the co-operative, however, many found acceptance, guidance, and at times, a crucial lifeline. For Mr Khoo, the work wasn’t about charity but about offering people a fair start. Leading at CCFC is different, of course. Here, his role is to oversee the fund that supports co-operatives across Singapore, large and small, helping them adapt, grow, and serve their members. The CCFC’s mission may sound complex, but Mr Khoo frames it simply: “We are all volunteers here serving for a good common cause.”

Under the Co-operative Societies Act 1979, all co-operatives are required to contribute 5 per cent of the first $500,000 of their annual surplus to the CCF. 20 per cent of any surplus over that amount may be contributed to either CCF or the Singapore Labour Foundation. These contributions form the foundation of CCF, which supports co-operative education, training, research, and audit work, alongside broader development initiatives.

For Mr Khoo, every dollar in the Central Co-operative Fund must be spent with purpose. The grants offered are as diverse as the needs they serve. The CCF Development Grant helps co-operatives improve governance and efficiency, while the CCF Training Grant equips officers with skills to better serve their members. The CCF Special Grant co-funds unique projects, and the CCF New Co-operative Grant supports the initial set-up costs and operating expenses. For those that don’t meet the usual criteria, the CCF Basic Support Grant offers a lifeline, ensuring no co-operative is left behind.

Today, there are fewer co-operatives formed than in past years, with some facing dissolution or declining memberships. The reasons are complex—demographic shifts, changing needs, and challenges with members retention all play a part. Yet, Mr Khoo and CCFC, alongside the Registry of Co-operative Societies (RCS) and the Singapore National Co-operative Federation (SNCF), recognise the need to work collaboratively to address the future of co-operatives, set against the backdrop of the movement’s centennial anniversary in 2025. This partnership aims to explore policy adjustments, identify areas for growth, and provide financial resources for co-operatives to innovate and sustain themselves over time. “Collectively, we do hope to support and guide the co-operatives to help them grow and stay relevant in the years to come,” he says. 

Yet, his modest approach doesn’t mean he’s without vision. He talks about technology, for example, as an essential tool for today’s co-operatives, though he acknowledges he’s still learning it himself. “Artificial Intelligence, social media, e-commerce—these are all things co-operatives can’t ignore,” he shares, seeing the potential for co-operatives to reach out further, to streamline their operations, and to build new pathways for engagement. “Staying motivated for me is knowing that our success will lead to better lives for the entire community,” he says, a reminder of why he took this role in the first place.

“In any organisation I helm, having a good team with a constructive diversity of ideas helps to strengthen our strategies in supporting the co-operatives,” he says. His vision isn’t to micromanage or to implement sweeping changes but to create a foundation where co-operatives are empowered to shape their own future. He often reflects on the diverse roles he’s held, from chairing ISCOS to working as an advisor to Casa Raudha, a shelter for victims of domestic violence, and values the lessons he’s learned about teamwork and humility. “Dedicate all your effort for the good of the organisation and never for any personal glory,” he adds, explaining the philosophy that has guided his career.

Looking ahead, Mr Khoo sees CCFC as a cornerstone of the Singapore Co-operative Movement, a movement that has touched countless lives over the past hundred years. As the centennial anniversary approaches, he recognises the critical work ahead: helping co-operatives adapt to shifting needs while ensuring they have the resources to continue making a difference. For Mr Khoo, it’s all about strengthening the foundations for future generations.

Faces of Co-operator is a seasonal column featuring the stories behind co-operative employees and members. Here, we featured Mr Vernon Khoo, the chairperson for the Central Co-operative Fund Committee.

Words and Photos by Sng Ler Jun