This report offers a glimpse into the lives of the Indigenous Orang Asli Jakun of Pahang, Malaysia, highlighting key aspects of their experiences with the changing climate.
It examines the specific challenges faced by members of the Jakun tribe, with a focus on systemic issues such as health, education, and environmental crises.
Explore the narratives that shed light on their struggles for land rights, identity, and survival amidst the backdrop of climate change and systemic injustice.
Summary
This report is a reflection and documentation of our story, the Indigenous Orang Asli of Pahang. Although many perceive us, the Jakun tribe, as modern and similar to other communities, the reality is that some of us live difficult lives due to the injustice of the prevailing system. The stories in this report are lifted from the reality we face every day, especially in relation to the non-recognition of our land rights and our identity.
In this documentation, it also tells a lot about critical issues such as women's rights, health, education, floods, water supply, electricity, and more. Until today, many of these problems still have no solid solution, forcing the Orang Asli to adapt and continue to endure because there is no genuine help from certain parties.
Climate Crisis also poses a major threat to us who live with the forest and nature. Our spiritual connection with the environment, especially the spirits of the forest, becomes a catalyst for us to defend environmental sustainability. Unfortunately, there are those who seek profit and politicise the Orang Asli issue while ignoring our rights and welfare, making the situation increasingly complex. What is the root cause of this problem?
Many questions arise in our hearts. Why are we, considered the original inhabitants of this land, still forgotten and marginalised? Is our history worthless? Aren't we also part of the Malaysian Nation?
By documenting our story, we hope it inspires other young Orang Asli to document their history and the effects of the climate crisis in their own communities. We believe real change starts with us, the Orang Asli, if we want to demand a better life. Our efforts in defending traditional lands and forests are crucial, especially in this era where we are all facing the climate crisis. More than that, we also hope this documentation effort can be used as a reference and incorporated into the formulation of new, fairer, and more inclusive policies for the Orang Asli community.
About the researcher
Diana A/P Tan Beng Hui, an indigenous Orang Asli activist from Malaysia's Jakun tribe, merges her advocacy with tangible action. As an AIPP Fellow and co-founder of 'Apa Kata Wanita Orang Asli,' she elevates young Indigenous women's voices, notably through documentaries featured at the Freedom Film Fest and COP26. Her leadership in the 'Weaving Hopes for The Future' project under KAMY documents Jakun tribes' knowledge against climate change. A key figure in 'Sekolah Iklim,' Diana amplifies Indigenous youth in climate governance discussions.
Spearheading Indigenous women's involvement in CEDAW and coordinating national conventions, Diana's work fortifies Indigenous rights, climate justice, and women's empowerment on global stages.