7 Years of Grit, Growth, and Leadership

Since 2018, Zariu and Nor have been farming with a purpose—not just to feed their family, but to uplift their village. Over seven years, they’ve become pillars of their community rooted in perseverance, cultural pride, and collective strength. They have been with OA Organik since the beginning and have grown together with it. More than farming, Zariu also used to pitch in to help send vegetables to our partners in a van but always wearing a smile despite the miles. Eventually, we acquired a lorry and even partnered with Jaya Grocer, and now we have a chiller truck! Such are the changes that he experienced.

Their journey hasn’t been easy. Despite facing personal challenges—especially the past 18 months with Zariu’s health struggles—their commitment never wavered. As his health improved, so did their harvest—and their household income more than doubled this year, rising from RM320 to RM820 per month.

Farming with Purpose: Restoring and Living in Harmony with the Land

Zariu’s connection to their Orang Asli identity fuels his commitment and keeps him grounded. Together with Nor, his wife, farming is more than putting food on the table—it’s living in harmony with the land and to continue to practice a way of life that is deeply connected with the land. By growing food naturally, they are helping to care and restore the land, preserve biodiversity, and preserving a legacy for their future generations.

Zariu’s big-heartedness is seen through his actions of hiring fellow villagers to help on his farm, providing daily wages when they need quick cash. His generosity and leadership have made him a trusted figure in the village.

Every crop they grow is part of a larger story of passing on values of stewardship and resilience to the next generation. And their story continues…

Read also another farmer’s story – an inspiring journey of a grandmother!

From Caregiver to Cultivator: A Grandmother’s Backyard Transformation