Kuala lumpur: The Department of Orang Asli Development (JAKOA) has denied allegations that it restricts the entry of outsiders into Orang Asli villages without reasonable grounds, noting that 395 applications were approved last year and 255 applications had been approved as of May this year.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, JAKOA emphasized its commitment to practising inclusive and open governance through strategic cooperation with various stakeholders, including non-governmental organisations (NGOs), the corporate sector, government agencies, and academic institutions. The department highlighted that 183 corporate social responsibility (CSR) programmes and 72 academic visits had been approved so far this year. A small number of applications were rejected due to the lack of consent from Tok Batin or Penghulu institutions.

JAKOA explained that the requirement for written approval from the JAKOA director-general is not intended to create bureaucratic barriers but serves as a governance mechanism to ensure that all activities respect the principle of free, prior and informed consent (FPIC), including mandatory consent from Tok Batin or Penghulu institutions. This procedure is deemed important for accountability and risk management, biosecurity and health protection, as well as data integrity and cultural preservation.

The department reiterated its commitment to facilitating efforts to contribute and collaborate responsibly and ethically for the benefit of the Orang Asli community, in line with provisions under Act 134. JAKOA also noted that in certain circumstances, applications might not be considered if there are factors that could affect the well-being of the community, including elements of content exploitation, dissemination of inappropriate ideologies, or actions that may disrupt the harmony of local customary leadership institutions.