Gua Musang:Kelantan An increase in the allocation for the Department of Orang Asli Development (JAKOA) to RM445 million in Budget 2027 aims to enhance educational access and improve utility facilities for the Orang Asli community, particularly the Temiar tribe in Kelantan's interior.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the budget allocation reflects a RM24 million increase and is intended to uplift the living standards and socioeconomic status of the Orang Asli community. It aims to bridge the gap in facilities between remote settlements and urban areas.

Initiatives include strengthening early childhood education for Orang Asli children by constructing new preschools at Kampung Orang Asli Angkek and Pos Belatim in Gua Musang. This effort is critical to providing quality education from an early age. Additionally, Pos Gob will receive large-scale solar lighting facilities through a Tenaga Nasional Berhad project, enhancing safety and comfort for residents.

Mohd Faedzyal Mohamed, Kelantan and Terengganu JAKOA director, emphasized the importance of collaboration with ministries, departments, government agencies, the private sector, and community leaders to ensure development projects meet the needs of the Orang Asli community. He stressed that these efforts must preserve the community's identity, heritage, and sustainability.

Kelantan Orang Asli chief penghulu Bidi Ronggeng highlighted the urgency of constructing a new preschool in Kampung Angkek due to the high density of Orang Asli residents in the Kuala Betis Resettlement Scheme. He expressed hope that the allocation would help fulfill the community's aspirations for better access to early education and basic amenities. Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim announced the allocation of RM445 million for JAKOA during the Budget 2027 presentation, which includes funding for the construction of preschools in the designated areas.