KUALA LUMPUR: The unity government has introduced a number of programmes for the development of the Orang Asli community, especially youths, so that they can enjoy the country's progress alongside the rest of Malaysia, says Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi.
The Deputy Prime Minister, who is also Rural and Regional Development Minister, said he would continue the development agenda of empowering the Orang Asli so that the community would benefit in the economic, social, health and education aspects.
"Each of us is special and plays an important role in shaping the identity of the multiracial society in Malaysia that we love," he said in a Facebook post on Wednesday (Aug 9).
Ahmad Zahid also wished a happy International Day of the World's Indigenous Peoples to the Orang Asli community.
This day is observed on Aug 9 each year to raise awareness and protect the rights of the world's indigenous peoples.
This year's theme is "Indigenous Youth as Agents of Change for Self-determination".
In February, Ahmad Zahid announced the approval of a RM200,000 fund for the development of the Malaysian Orang Asli Youth Council, while the Orang Asli Development Department (Jakoa) contributed RM200,000 in the form of equipment to the council.
Ahmad Zahid also set a target of at least 800 Orang Asli youths to join Technical, Vocational Education and Training (TVET) programmes this year, compared to more than 700 last year. – Bernama
