BY: ERMIZI MUHAMAD
SHAH ALAM, AUG 6: The State Government acknowledges that land ownership by the Orang Asal community in the state is a right of the indigenous community here.
Menteri Besar Dato’ Seri Mohamed Azmin Ali said the community continues to enjoy citizenship privileges similar to other ethnic communities in the state.
“Selangor is the only state that honours and acknowledges Orang Asal as a part of Malaysia’s big family.
“The State Government is of the view that the identity of the Orang Asal is a valuable part of the complex diversity of the peoples in this state.
“This uniqueness and diversity are important assets that make the state’s economy prosperous,” he said.
He was speaking during the 2016 World’s Indigenous Peoples Celebration at Taman Botani Negara.
Mohamed Azmin said that in line with the Smart Selangor programme, the Orang Asal community is not marginalised and they enjoy the state’s wealth through various long-term programmes.
These include intensive welfare programmes and education aid to Orang Asal children to further their studies to the highest level possible.
“The State Government pledges, and is determined in continuing our policies which provide justice and equality to the Orang Asal community in Selangor.
“We are taking this stand as the advancement of a nation and state does not just rest on physical progress.
“We are firm in our belief that the Orang Asal community is rich in values, culture and heritage,” he said.
The festival was held to create public awareness of Orang Asli culture and heritage. The event also aims to expose other various cultures of Orang Asal communities across the country.
Selangor is hosting this event for the second time, with an expected turnout of 5,000 people. The event includes participation of all indigenous people from around the world.
