Education and health care are important aspects in the development of balanced and progressive society. The challenge in access to education and basic health care by the Orang Asli or the indigenous community is often highlighted and discussed at various levels especially by researchers. Universiti Malaysia Terengganu (UMT) has taken a proactive step by conducting corporate social responsibility programmes to improve the quality of life of the Orang Asli community.  

The indigenous community still maintains a tradition and culture based on the natural environment, said Professor Dr. Khatijah Omar, Deputy Director of the Institute of Tropical Biodiversity and Sustainable Development, UMT.

“Their live revolves around the natural surrounding, with knowledge about plants, traditional medicine, and a lifestyle that meshes with the environment as most fundamental,” she said.

“However, they face various challenges, such as lack of access to education, healthcare, and basic needs.

“We set up Jungle School in collaboration with relevant agencies as part of a humanitarian mission to attract the interest of the children of the Semaq Beri Orang Asli community at Kg. Sungai Berua to attend school.”

In addition, the institute often works together with local and international agencies to conduct programmes relating to the development of Orang Asli’s children.

“We have organized several series of social responsibility programmes. This time we are focusing on the theme of education and health where we are offering free health checkups, an introduction to reading, writing, calculating, colouring activity, and a demonstration on proper personal hygiene such as how to brush teeth correctly,” said Professor Khatijah when met during the USR Programme with Community and Jungle School Students at Kg. Sungai Berua, Kuala Berang.

She added UMT has the expertise to help the Orang Asli community from being left behind.

“The university has academic staff that play an effective role in research and development of society. Through collaborations with the Orang Asli community, the university can successfully conduct research relating to community issues such as agriculture, educational system, and healthcare.  

“We have implemented Orang Asli community development programmes since 2015, and although it has taken quite long, significant changes can be observed today. This effort needs to be continued for better outcomes in the future.”

UMT is on the right track in terms of carrying out its responsibility to help the Orang Asli community, Professor Khatijah said.

“This kind of programme can help in the social and economic development of the community,” she said.

“The university can help the community achieve a better life by having continued collaborations and organizing knowledge sharing programmes.”

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Corporate Communications Office

Universiti Malaysia Terengganu