Kluang: The Johor state government has announced nine initiatives to support and empower the Orang Asli community, with a total allocation of RM3.87 million.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, State Agriculture, Agro-based Industry and Rural Development Committee chairman Datuk Zahari Sarip revealed that the initiatives include one-off cash aid of RM200 for 5,041 heads of households and RM300 for 46 Tok Batin (village chiefs). Additionally, food baskets will be distributed to eligible households, and 73 Orang Asli university students will receive laptops. A RM10,000 special grant is also earmarked to support operational costs and community programmes in 60 Orang Asli villages.

The initiatives were unveiled by Menteri Besar Datuk Onn Hafiz Ghazi during the Johor State Orang Asli Day Festival 2025 held in Kluang. Zahari mentioned that upgrades will be conducted on 17 multipurpose halls, 32 community halls, and 44 sports facilities and equipment in Orang Asli settlements. Furthermore, 37 mosques and suraus will receive RM10,000 each in contributions.

To ensure better coordination of development and welfare initiatives, the state government has established the Johor Orang Asli Community Special Committee.