Indigenous Groups Seek Recognition To Land Rights Leadership Role

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Jaringan Orang Asal SeMalaysia (JOAS), a network of 120 indigenous peoples organisations in Malaysia, today submitted a memorandum to the National Unity Ministry in conjunction with the celebration of the 2025 Indigenous Peoples Day.
The memorandum was presented by JOAS president Hellan Empaing Anak Chi Tungkat to National Unity Minister Aaron Ago Dagang at the launch of the celebration at Tadom Hill Resort in Banting.
The document sought to reaffirm their rights to land, customary territories, and natural resources; recognises the leadership role of indigenous peoples in addressing climate change and managing resources; and strengthens intergenerational voices, particularly among youth.
It also calls for inclusive and accountable governance, while valuing cultural resilience and the deep connections to customary lands and territories.
Aaron said the ministry would carefully review the memorandum before making any further decisions on the issues raised.
“The government will study the memorandum and give serious attention to the concerns raised,” he said when met after opening the ceremony.
National Unity Minister Aaron Ago DagangHe stressed that the government has always recognised the Orang Asli community as an important part of the nation’s identity and a vital contributor to preserving Malaysia’s cultural diversity, which he described as one of the country’s greatest strengths.
“The Madani government, through the 13th Malaysia Plan (13MP), is giving serious focus to improving the quality of life of the Orang Asli community in a comprehensive and integrated manner.
“One of the key priorities under this strategy is the review of the Orang Asli Act 1954 (Act 134) to strengthen the protection of the community’s rights and dignity,” he said.
Be proactive
Aaron also called on the community to take a more active role in participating and building cooperation with the Rukun Tetangga in their respective areas.
Such involvement, he said, would not only foster stronger social bonds and neighbourhood spirit but also provide the Orang Asli with better access to local development programmes.
“In addition, the government will continue to fully support initiatives to preserve the language, oral heritage, and cultural arts of the indigenous community.
“This cultural heritage is not only a national treasure that must be safeguarded but also contains traditional knowledge and values that are crucial in tackling global challenges such as climate change and biodiversity loss,” he added.
The 2025 Indigenous Day, themed “Protect the Earth, Restore the Land, Regreen the Future - Through Indigenous Wisdom”, is celebrated annually to honour the identity, culture, contributions, and rights of Indigenous peoples, who are an integral part of Malaysia’s rich tapestry of races and cultures.
- Bernama

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