Overview

CATA Business Cooperative (CBC), as a chapter of the Cambodian Amanah Takaful Association (CATA), is dedicated to fostering strategic collaboration, mutual support, and sustainable growth among Muslim-owned businesses, associations, NGOs, and Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in Cambodia.

CBC operates under a cooperative and Shariah-aligned model, promoting risk-sharing, mutual assistance (Ta’awun), ethical business conduct, and responsible financing. Through this framework, CBC aims to strengthen the Islamic economy at the grassroots level while enhancing social welfare and community resilience.

1. Purpose

The primary purpose of CBC is to unite diverse stakeholders within the Muslim community to facilitate meaningful collaboration, resource-sharing, and collective progress.

By building a strong and trusted business network, CBC seeks to:

• Empower Muslim entrepreneurs and MSMEs

• Strengthen economic cooperation within the community

• Promote social solidarity and charitable impact

• Enhance professional standards and governance

CBC serves as a structured platform where economic growth and community development move forward together.

2. Objectives

2.1 Community Support & Charity Mobilization

Mobilize financial and non-financial resources to support underprivileged Muslim communities, ensuring access to essential assistance, emergency relief, and socio-economic empowerment initiatives.

2.2 Business Networking & Collaboration

Establish a robust and trusted business ecosystem that fosters partnerships, trade opportunities, and strategic alliances among members.

2.3 Capacity Building & Training

Provide structured training programs, workshops, and professional development initiatives to strengthen entrepreneurial skills, governance standards, and financial literacy.

2.4 Information & Regulatory Updates

Disseminate relevant updates and insights from government authorities such as:

• Ministry of Interior

• Ministry of Commerce

Ensuring members remain informed about regulatory requirements, compliance standards, and business opportunities.

2.5 Compliance & Ethical Governance

Guide members in fulfilling legal obligations and adhering to regulatory frameworks applicable to NGOs and businesses, while promoting transparency, accountability, and ethical Islamic business principles.

2.6 Advocacy & Economic Empowerment

Advocate for policies and initiatives that promote economic inclusion, business growth, and the socio-economic advancement of Cambodia’s Muslim community.

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3. Membership Categories & Annual Contributions

To promote inclusivity and sustainability, CBC establishes the following membership structure:

3.1 Individual Businesses & NGOs

Annual Contribution: USD 150

3.2 Companies & Organizational Partners

Annual Contribution: USD 300

Membership contributions support administrative coordination, training programs, networking events, and community-driven initiatives.

4. Member Responsibilities

Members of CBC are expected to:

4.1 Active Participation

Contribute time, expertise, or resources to CBC initiatives. Attend meetings, forums, and collaborative activities regularly.

4.2 Annual Contribution

Maintain active membership status through timely annual fee payment.

4.3 Policy Compliance

Adhere to CBC policies, ethical standards, and participate in compliance-related briefings or training sessions.

4.4 Community Commitment

Uphold the values of cooperation, integrity, professionalism, and mutual support in all engagements under CBC.

5. Governance & Coordination

5.1 Staff Coordinators

CATA shall appoint 3–5 Coordinators responsible for:

• Organizing events and networking sessions

• Managing member engagement

• Facilitating training programs

• Overseeing administrative operations

5.2 Board of the Cooperative

CBC will be governed by an elected Board representing member interests. The Board shall:

• Set strategic direction

• Approve major initiatives

• Ensure alignment with CATA’s mission

• Strengthen institutional governance

6. Election & Tenure

Election Cycle

Board members shall be elected every two (2) years, ensuring continuity and fresh leadership perspectives.

Eligibility

Members in good standing are eligible to:

• Nominate candidates

• Vote in elections

• Stand for board positions

7. Amendments

CATA reserves the right to amend this policy when necessary. Significant amendments will require prior communication and member endorsement.

8. Acceptance of Terms

By joining the CATA Business Cooperative, members acknowledge and agree to these terms and commit to supporting CATA’s mission of strengthening, empowering, and uplifting Cambodia’s Muslim community through ethical economic cooperation and sustainable development.