Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between Ordinary Member and Associate Member?

Both ordinary and associate members have to pay an entrance fee of S$10.00 and at least 20 shares (S$1.00 per share). The difference is ordinary member has a say in how the Co-operative is managed and the selection of who manages it. Each ordinary member is entitled to one vote for election of Board of Directors at AGM. An ordinary member is eligible to stand for election as well. An ordinary member who retires from SCDF will become an associate member and may be offered a second career with COSEM.

What are the benefits I will get when I join the Co-operative?

Every member, whether ordinary or associate, will be eligible for dividends in accordance to the number of shares held. On top of that, discounts could also be given for purchase of fire and first aid related products sold at the one-stop shop located in Central Fire Station.

Do I have to pay monthly/yearly subscription?

There are no plans for COSEM to levy a monthly/yearly subscription. Should there be a need for the Co-operative to do so, it will be tabled at the Annual General Meeting for approval by its members.

Can I withdraw from the Co-operative?

Any member who is not liable to the Co-operative may resign from it by giving 6 months’ notice of resignation in writing. During the period of notice, such member shall not be eligible to vote or incur fresh liabilities with the Co-operative.

Can I cash out my shares any time I like?

The minimum number of 20 shares cannot be withdrawn except on cessation of membership. Shares in excess of the prescribed minimum may be withdrawn and are transferable, subject to the provisions of the Co-operative Act and any limitations laid down in the By-Laws.

Can I rejoin the Co-operative after I withdraw from it?

Yes, you may re-join the Co-operative after withdrawal. However, you would be required to pay the entrance fee of S$10.00 and at least 20 shares (S$1.00 per share).

I am already a member of other Co-operative, are there any implications if I join COSEM?

No, there are no implications if you join COSEM when you are already a member of another Co-operative.

Am I eligible to take a loan from the Co-operative?

No, COSEM will not be providing any thrift and loan services at the onset. However, COSEM will review the feasibility and suitability of offering such services after the initial few years.

How is the co-operative going to make money to generate dividends for its members?

COSEM will focus on 2 main areas to generate surplus (profit). The first area is the sale of fire and life safety products to the general public and companies at the one-stop shop located in Central Fire Station. The second area is to provide fire safety consultancy services to the companies and industries. A portion of the surplus will be declared as dividends for its members.

What are the main objectives of COSEM?

The main objectives of Co-operative of SCDF Employees are:

  • Surplus - To generate sufficient surplus to finance future growth and to provide the resources needed to achieve the other objectives of the Co-operative.
  • Growth - To grow the business at a rate that is both challenging and manageable, leading the market with innovation and adaptability.
  • Social - To provide fire and life safety products and services to the general population and businesses at an affordable cost.
  • Welfare - To provide jobs for retired SCDF officers who are also members of the Co-operative.

How do I apply to be a member of the Co-operative?

To apply, you will need to:

  • Complete the application form (please ensure that the information required is duly furnished).
  • Nominate your beneficiary/beneficiaries using the nominee form provided (please note that the nomination has to be witnessed and signed by two witnesses).
  • Mail the completed application and nominee forms, plus a cheque (for the amount payable) to: COSEM Ltd
    8 Sungei Kadut
    Street 3
    Singapore 729154

Cheque to be crossed and made payable to:

  • CO-OPERATIVE OF SCDF EMPLOYEES LIMITED

Where can I get more information on COSEM ?

Besides getting in touch with the directors and staff of COSEM, you may want to go on line and visit the Co-operative website: www.cosem.org.sg.

Members can also download the By-Laws of COSEM from this website.