Kuala lumpur: Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi has expressed his appreciation and gratitude for the address by the Sultan of Pahang, Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri'ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah, which highlighted the welfare of the Orang Asli community and rural development in the state.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Ahmad Zahid shared in a Facebook post that the Sultan of Pahang's speech, which touched on water supply projects, the gazetting of Orang Asli villages, and the provision of basic facilities, reflected the Sultanate's commitment to prioritizing the well-being of the people. The Rural and Regional Development Minister emphasized that the Sultan's consistent focus on Orang Asli issues demonstrated people-centred leadership and served as a catalyst for more inclusive rural empowerment efforts.

'His Royal Highness' continued attention to the development of the Orang Asli community and the preservation of their rights and well-being strengthens our resolve to empower rural communities comprehensively and sustainably,' he said. Al-Sultan Abdullah, during a visit to the Kampung Paya Badak water pump house project in Temerloh, stated that the project is proof that the Orang Asli community in Pahang has not been marginalized.

His Royal Highness noted that various initiatives are being implemented to enhance infrastructure and improve the welfare of rural communities, particularly the Orang Asli, in Pahang.