MERSING, Aug 2 (Bernama) -- Initiatives undertaken by the Johor government in collaboration with the Department of Orang Asli Development (JAKOA) to strengthen leadership and promote the development of Orang Asli communities continue to bring tangible benefits, including to residents of Kampung Orang Asli Labong here.
The village's Tok Batin, Mabot Sela, 80, said programmes such as leadership training and increased allowances have enhanced his ability to serve as an effective liaison between the community and government agencies.
"Throughout my tenure, I have remained committed to ensuring that the welfare and needs of the community receive the attention they deserve from the government and relevant agencies," he told Bernama.
Appointed as Tok Batin in 1990, Mabot now leads about 500 members of the Jakun tribe, comprising 136 families living in 99 houses in the village.
He said he has benefited from leadership courses organised by JAKOA, which have equipped him with the knowledge and skills to improve village administration and community governance.
"We (Tok Batin) are taught how to manage the village more systematically, streamline the delivery of assistance, and enhance the quality of services provided to the community," said the father of four.
Mabot also welcomed the state government's decision to increase the monthly allowance for village heads and Orang Asli Tok Batin from RM1,200 to RM1,500, effective last January, supported by an additional allocation of RM2.6 million.
He said the increase has helped ease his daily expenses, particularly healthcare costs, including the purchase of medication.
As the customary and community leader of an Orang Asli village, the Tok Batin serves as the key link between residents and the government, coordinating local development and addressing community needs.
Among the recurring issues raised by villagers, Mabot said, are crop damage caused by wild elephants and the presence of roaming cattle, which pose a danger to motorists.
Meanwhile, resident Sekoi Janja, 68, said development efforts for the Orang Asli community should continue so that future generations can enjoy even greater opportunities.
"In the past, our lives depended almost entirely on the forest and our surroundings, but times have changed. I hope the younger generation will be able to build better lives in the future," she said.
Trader Norma Lonchai, 44, expressed hope that more programmes would be introduced to help Orang Asli communities acquire new skills and improve their livelihoods.
"Beyond financial assistance, we hope for more initiatives that provide opportunities for Orang Asli people to develop their skills and increase their income," she said.
Last year, the state government allocated RM3.8 million to implement nine initiatives aimed at empowering and improving the welfare of more than 18,000 Orang Asli in the state.
In addition, various forms of assistance covering welfare, education, infrastructure, and community development have been approved to ensure the Orang Asli community continues to benefit from comprehensive and inclusive development.
-- BERNAMA