03/07/2026 08:48 PM

Endau's First Orang Asli Candidate Aspires To Be A Voice For All

​MERSING, July 3 (Bernama) -- As the only Orang Asli candidate in this Johor state election, Jati Awang is on a mission to amplify the voices of all communities in the Endau state constituency, regardless of race.

The 52-year-old candidate from Parti Orang Asli Malaysia (ASLI) said his candidacy is not solely about championing Orang Asli aspirations; it also encompasses the needs of everyone, including fishermen and rural residents.

"We engage with people from all backgrounds, even at roadside stalls, without any hesitation. For us, as long as they are Malaysians, we move forward together to develop the state and the nation," he told Bernama in Kampung Londang Batu.

Jati said the grassroots support he has received, despite it being his electoral debut, gives him the confidence to fight for people's issues in a more structured and comprehensive manner.

Admitting that he initially felt nervous and intimidated, the Jakun tribesman nevertheless views this platform as the best opportunity to carry the voice of Endau's people. 

Jati said his priorities include fighting for Orang Asli customary land rights and addressing Malay Reserve Land issues in a fair and just manner, while also tackling infrastructure problems such as water supply and land disputes affecting residents of Kampung Orang Asli Punan.

Despite facing stiff competition from major parties, the ASLI permanent chairman (Central Conference) said he has chosen to campaign with integrity throughout the election period.

"Even if I lose, I won't be disappointed. This is just the beginning. I'll only work harder and step up my campaign efforts," said the father of five.

Meanwhile, ASLI president Rashid Ka said the party's participation in the 16th Johor state election marks a historic milestone, as its very first electoral outing since being established on Dec 6, 2022.  

"So far, we have a presence in seven states, and soon it will be eight, as we work together to form governments and build Malaysia on a foundation of racial unity," he said, noting that the party now has over 33,000 members nationwide.

The Endau state seat is witnessing a four-cornered fight featuring Jati, Perikatan Nasional's Hasnul Hakimi Hussien, Pakatan Harapan's Saiful Nizam Samat, and Barisan Nasional's Alwiyah Talib.

A total of 172 candidates are vying for 56 state seats in the Johor election, with polling day set for July 11 and early voting on July 7.

For the latest updates on the 16th Johor state election, visit https://prn.bernama.com/johor/.

-- BERNAMA

 

N32: ENDAU - 28,767 voters

1. Hasnul Hakimi Hussien (PN-PAS)

2. Jati Awang (ASLI)

3. Saiful Nizam Samat (PH-PKR)

4. Alwiyah Talib (BN-UMNO)

 

(2022: Alwiyah Talib: PN-Bersatu: Maj: 3,041)

 

 


 

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