A meaningful community outreach program was organized in Kg. Palebar Baru, Port Dickson on 26 January 2025, for the Orang Asli community, also known as Malaysia’s indigenous people. Led by Pr. Frendy Rubil, the church pastor of the Seremban Seventh-day Adventist Church, the event saw enthusiastic participation, with over 30 church members, including children, joining hands to serve and engage with 85 Orang Asli participants, comprising both adults and children.
The program was also attended by the Malaysia Union Mission Adventist Community Services Director, Elder Farrel Gara. It was supported by the Department of Indigenous People’s Development, known as Jabatan Kemajuan Orang Asli (JAKOA). The opening ceremony was officiated by the Director of JAKOA, marking a significant collaboration between faith-based and governmental organizations to uplift the local indigenous community. A traditional dance performance by the Orang Asli community added a vibrant cultural touch, showcasing their rich heritage and traditions.
The outreach activity aimed to build friendships with the Orang Asli through education and hands-on skills. Two key seminars were conducted—one focused on education and the other on medicinal plants—both designed to share helpful knowledge and raise awareness. A weaving leaves demonstration allowed participants to experience traditional craft-making firsthand, helping them develop new skills while appreciating their cultural heritage. Additionally, fun activities and bonding sessions were organized to strengthen connections between church members and the local community.
The Orang Asli are the indigenous people of Malaysia. The term refers to the direct descendants of Peninsular Malaysia’s original inhabitants. The Orang Asli is made up of 18 sub-ethnic groups, including the Negritos (Semang), Proto-Malays or Aboriginal Malays, and Senois. They have their own distinct languages, cultures, and religions. They live in remote rural areas where their forest homes are considered sacred sites, ancestral graves, and places for hunting, planting, and foraging. Most Orang Asli live in poverty and are behind in terms of socioeconomy, education, and health. Their customary land has been encroached upon by logging and development.
The event brought people together in a meaningful way, fostering mutual learning, cultural appreciation, and a strong sense of community. The collaboration between the church, government agencies, and local community members showed how working together can create a real, positive impact. May the initiative of the Seremban Church to the Orang Asli community create new relationships and strengthen the spirit of unity and service among everyone involved.
Reported by Hazel Wanda Ginajil-Gara, MAUM Communication Department
28, February 2025, Friday.