SEPANG, Aug 9 — The state government will intensify efforts to develop the Orang Asli community by ensuring that every aid and allocation is fully utilised, said Menteri Besar Dato' Seri Amirudin Shari.
This comes after the revelation that only 10 out of 74 Orang Asli villages in the state have applied for funds under the Sejahtera Komuniti Madani (SejaTi Madani) programme so far.
He said that immediate measures, including organising workshops with state executive councillor for poverty eradication, Orang Asli, and minority affairs Papparaidu Veraman, and sessions with Orang Asli village chiefs will be held to provide detailed explanations on the application process and fund usage.
"We want the funds from both the Federal and state governments, including the RM10,000 for community programmes, to be fully used for community development," Amirudin said.
He was speaking to the press after officiating the Orang Asli Cultural Festival in conjunction with the Selangor-level Orang Asli Day celebration at Kampung Orang Asli Kelinsing today.
The Menteri Besar also urged community representatives and relevant departments to be more proactive in providing guidance and information so the community can improve their economic and social standing.
During the event, he announced that products from the Orang Asli community will be made official souvenirs for government departments and leaders, as a step to generate income for the local residents.
Meanwhile, in his speech, Papparaidu emphasised that education is the key to the long-term progress of the Orang Asli community. He noted that the state government is committed to providing educational opportunities so that they are not left behind in knowledge and technology developments.
“Education is the main catalyst for improving their quality of life and opening the path to a brighter future.
“The Selangor government remains committed to offering the Orang Asli community various educational initiatives so they are not left behind in the wave of knowledge and technological advancement,” Papparaidu said.
As part of efforts to empower rural areas, 13 solar-powered street lights have been installed in three Orang Asli Villages (KOA), including KOA Bukit Bangkong, KOA Hulu Chuchoh, and KOA Sungai Belankan.
He said this initiative reflects the state government's commitment to developing sustainable infrastructure, benefiting 372 households involving 1,071 residents.
