Orang Asli advisory council's role to be finalised via Act amendment - Rubiah

KUALA LUMPUR: The role and responsibilities of the Peninsular Malaysia Orang Asli Advisory Council will be finalized through amendments to the Aboriginal Peoples Act 1954, according to Deputy Rural and Regional Development Minister Datuk Rubiah Wang. The council currently functions as a committee, acting as an engagement platform among the government, Orang Asli community, and non-governmental organizations.

Rubiah clarified that the council's full role and responsibilities will be detailed in the amendments to the Aboriginal Peoples Act 1954, set to be presented to Parliament soon. During a Question and Answer session in the Dewan Rakyat, Rubiah addressed questions from Abdul Latiff Abdul Rahman (PN-Kuala Krai) regarding the council's functions, jurisdiction, and the government's efforts to incorporate its views into policies affecting Orang Asli interests.

Rubiah explained that the Department of Orang Asli Development (Jakoa) offers entrepreneur grants ranging from RM9,000 to RM35,000 and cooperative grants up to RM200,000 for business equipment and premises. Additionally, the government provides agricultural modernization programs with financing from RM5,000 to RM300,000, covering a broad range of assistance.

Rubiah emphasized the importance of the Orang Asli community continuing to submit applications to ensure sustainable income generation and holistic economic expansion.