Kuala Lumpur: A total of RM8.5 million has been allocated to support Orang Asli students pursuing their studies at local institutions of higher learning this year. Deputy Minister of Rural and Regional Development Datuk Rubiah Wang announced the allocation, which is expected to benefit around 500 Orang Asli students as part of the government’s efforts to enhance human capital development within the community.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Rubiah emphasized that the initiative is integral to the Orang Asli Development Policy, which is currently being strengthened. The aim is to see more Orang Asli youth succeed in professional fields such as teaching, engineering, medicine, the civil service, academia, and emerge as credible community leaders. She made these remarks after launching the Anugerah Mahasiswa Inspirasi (AMI) ceremony.

Rubiah highlighted the importance of sharing the success of Orang Asli students in higher education, particularly by agencies under the Ministry of Rural and Regional Development (KKDW). This sharing of success stories is intended to inspire the younger generation of the community. She also urged Orang Asli students to acquire skills in digital, innovation, and leadership fields, as they are expected to become agents of change in their communities.

In addition, Rubiah mentioned that the proposed amendments to the Aboriginal Peoples Act 1954 (Act 134) are still in the engagement stage. The preliminary report is set to be presented at the upcoming meeting of the Orang Asli Consultative Council (MaPOA), addressing proposed amendments related to the definition of Orang Asli, land development, welfare, and other previously lacking aspects in the existing Act.

Rubiah further explained that these improvements aim to strengthen legal protection for the Orang Asli community, ensuring their rights and well-being are better safeguarded. The enhancements are designed to benefit the Department of Orang Asli Development (JAKOA) and the overall governance system of the Orang Asli community.