KUALA KUBU BAHARU: The Orang Asli community here are calling for improved infrastructure and more robust advocacy from their elected representative to address their needs and welfare.
The community said they have yet to see significant improvements in infrastructure, such as better roads, which restrict economic opportunities for the group.
Sharil Salim, 34, a welder and the eldest sibling in his family, shared that he had to forego his education and work to support his younger siblings.
He said there is a need for job opportunities for the Orang Asli in the constituency to move
beyond traditional rubber tapping, which is not sustainable in the long-term due to weather conditions.
Consequently, many community members are compelled to seek alternative employment outside the constituency to secure better livelihoods.
"If possible, please assist the Orang Asli community as best as possible, whether in housing or roads. Look at us, the Orang Asli community; we need to progress.
"That's why for me, regardless of which political party wins, what's important is that they can do their job and assist us as well," Sharil told the New Straits Times.
He added that the Kampung Buluh Telur community also lacks access to schools, forcing them to attend schools in Ampang Pecah or Kampung Orang Asli Tun Razak, which are located five to 10km away respectively.
Meanwhile, Mansor Ad Ahmad, 45, said the new assemblyman to be elected in the upcoming Kuala Kubu Baharu by-election must be ready to visit Orang Asli villages consistently.
He said this was to ensure that the Orang Asli receive adequate attention like other residents.
"If possible, the new assemblyman can assist the Orang Asli community by taking a greater interest in understanding the issues we face here.
"Previously, they rarely visited Orang Asli villages, and we had to go to their offices to report any problems we encountered. The assemblyman also lacked officers who represented the Orang Asli community."
Mansor said the soon-to-be-elected assemblyman must gain the support of the Orang Asli community as they are also constituents under his or her jurisdiction.
