Healthcare in Melai has witnessed significant improvement thanks to the introduction of a mobile clinic service operated by Jabatan Kemajuan Orang Asli (JAKOA) and the Ministry of Health (MOH), according to Amai Maimun, 51. In the past, Melai residents relied on the Klinik Kesihatan in Chini, which was a 20-minute motorcycle ride from the village. […]
Mental health is a universal concern, impacting individuals irrespective of their background or lifestyle. However, perceptions of mental health vary among people, and they encounter distinct challenges in addressing it. Indigenous communities, with their distinctive cultures and ways of life, offer a unique perspective on mental health. They show us that mental health isn’t a […]
Historically, Orang Asli (OA) communities have grappled with educational disparities, primarily due to geographic isolation and economic disadvantages. For generations, OAs have struggled to access quality education perpetuating a cycle of poverty and limiting employment opportunities for their families. In response to these disparities, the nation has made concerted efforts to improve education access for […]
Every year on August 31st, the streets burst into life with vibrant parades adorned with intricate floats, featuring schoolchildren and police contingents marching in unity. Across the nation, main roads are temporarily closed to accommodate a grand celebration that proudly showcases Malaysia’s rich culture and heritage. Yet, deep within the tranquil forest, the festivities take […]
Contrary to its name, watersheds or water catchments do not only concern water sources and supply. It is an interconnected system that includes water, land, air, plants, animals and the community it serves. In simpler terms, rain, and groundwater in an area of land bound by hills or ridges will flow into a common point […]
Once upon a time, Tasik Chini was home to the Naga Seri Gumum, a legendary dragon in Malay folklore. However, today, the lake adorned with floating lotus flowers is slowly losing its water. The once-thriving forests that surrounded it now conceal their secrets, and the once-visible wildlife has vanished. Tasik Chini’s status as a UNESCO […]
In the tightly-knit community of Melai, there is one name that stands out – Fazilah Apong. At just 21 years old, Fazilah is a budding teacher who is educating the next generation of Orang Asli (OA) children in the village. Her dedication to teaching is a beacon of hope for the children of Melai, showing […]
Orang Asli, the indigenous people of Malaysia, has long been shrouded in mystery due to their unique cultural practices and traditional way of life. This mystery has often given rise to misconceptions and assumptions about the Orang Asli, with many Malaysians having little understanding or appreciation of their diverse cultural heritage and the challenges they […]
Every year the monsoon season brings significant challenges and destruction to Orang Asli (OA) communities living in rural Pahang. As the impact of climate change grows, these OA communities have developed coping strategies and techniques through a process of innovation and adaptation – based on personal experience and past lessons learned. Linggi Ali, a 65-year-old […]
The Orang Asli (OA) in Kampung Melai can tell when there is an impending flood. They call it “tagar” when thunder is booming and the forest floor is filled with fallen branches, twigs and leaves. When their instincts are wrong, the OA turn to local shamans or “puyang” to predict impending floods or natural disasters. […]