JELAI - The State Government's act of paying compensation to Indigenous People amounting to RM6.5 million since the beginning of the Selangor State Government's rule since 2008 has proven that it is ready to return the rights denied during the Barisan Nasional administration.
Selangor State KEADILAN Council Chairman, Amirudin Shari, said the success reflects the ability of Pakatan Harapan (PAKATAN) to continue to defend the fate of the Orang Asli, especially now that they are also governing the Federal Government.
The situation will be easier if PAKATAN candidate, Manogaran, were to win the P.78 Cameron Highlands parliamentary seat on January 26.
"Select a representative (party candidate) from the Federal Government, that way we will be able to solve problems easily.
"In the past when PAKATAN was not governing Putrajaya, we set up an Orang Asli Act (in Selangor). With a small power it provided some facilities for the good of the Orang Asli. What's more, the State Government has paid compensation of RM6.5 million to the Orang Asli then and had withdrew the appeal.
"In fact, we have already created a Sagong Tasi Scholarship, an Indigenous Hero in Selangor who has been opposing the intrusion of indigenous rights to help them continue their studies," he said.
This was said by Amirudin when delivering a speech at Kampung Simoi Baru, Pos Betau, Cameron Highlands in conjunction with the Election Campaign (PRK) and also attended by the candidate, M Manogaran.
It is evident that the good relations between the MPs and the Federal Government will be able to solve problems raised by the Orang Asli.
"This Saturday do not forget to bring your identity cards and vote for PAKATAN's candidate. His name is in the fourth row, "he said.
Earlier Tok Batin, a resident of Kampung Simoi Baru, Shariff Cadang, hoped Amirudin and the Government of PAKATAN will assist the Orang Asli in development.
"We hope the new Government can hear our problems and help in terms of development, home and road.
"Do not be like the first government, there is help but it did not satisfy the people. I hope the new government can now help us, "he said.
The village of Simoi Baru occupies over 300 Original people with 148 of them registered voters.
At the same event, Amirudin, who is also Selangor Menteri Besar, also had the opportunity to attend tahlil and other prayers to mingle with the locals.
