17,000 Orang Asli Still Marginalised

17,000 Orang Asli Still Marginalised
Thursday July 27, 2006
By Simon Khoo

KUANTAN: About 17,000 orang asli in the state are still living in a “world of their own” in the fringe of the jungles.

State Orang Asli Affairs Department director Bakar Yunus said the figure constituted some 31% of the orang asli population.

He said there were about 55,000 orang asli living in 263 villages throughout the state.

“A total of 87 villages are in the outskirts without proper basic amenities such as water and electricity.

“The remaining villages are connected to towns and accessible by road,” he said in an interview.

Bakar said among the isolated villages were those in Cameron Highlands, Jerantut and Lipis.

“However, our records show that their numbers are relatively small and dwindling,” he said.

In line with the country’s rapid development, the number was expected to decline further.

“Besides, the pro-active action and measures adopted by the Government have improved their living conditions,” he said.

Bakar said the indigenous people depended on small-scale agriculture and plantation for a living.

“Back in those days, they hunted and collected grubs from the jungle.

“Some are venturing into oil palm and rubber plantation and enjoy a steady income,” he said.

He said the department would work closely with the authorities to ensure the orang asli stayed above the poverty line.

Bakar said the orang asli were now more receptive to changes and willing to come forward to experience new opportunities.

“On our part, we constantly remind orang asli parents on the importance of securing a good education for their children.

“So far this year, a total of 26 orang asli students have registered at local universities,” he said.