The Department of Orang Asli Development (Jakoa) is committed to ensuring that all issues faced by flood victims within the Orang Asli community are promptly resolved. This includes not only providing food supplies and daily necessities but addressing all aspects of their needs.
Datuk Sapiah Mohd Nor, the director-general of Jakoa, emphasized the department’s dedication to monitoring Orang Asli villages and addressing any arising issues as quickly as possible. She highlighted a recent incident in Kampung Orang Asli Pucur, Kahang in Kluang, where flood victims had to resort to using candles due to a faulty generator set. Despite delays in repairing and sending replacement parts for the generator due to road closures, Jakoa is committed to expediting the process.
During a mission to deliver food supplies to flood victims in Kampung Orang Asli Pucur and Kampung Orang Asli Sedohok, a total of 106 residents of Kampung Orang Asli Pucur and 177 residents of Orang Asli Sedohok received aid in the form of food supplies such as rice, bottled water, and canned food. This assistance is expected to last for up to two weeks, with continuous aid being distributed until the affected areas are no longer flooded and residents can safely resume their daily activities.
Sapiah Mohd Nor emphasized that Jakoa’s food supply assistance through the ‚Bakul Makanan‘ distribution is not limited to flood disasters but also extends to other emergencies such as landslides and wild animal attacks. This holistic approach ensures that Orang Asli communities receive the support they need during challenging times.
In response to the faulty generator in Kampung Orang Asli Pucur, Tok Batin Semanggar Ahmad shared that 27 families in the village were left in darkness for a week. Some residents resorted to using small generator sets at night, but the limited petrol supply in the town of Kahang posed challenges as residents had to travel by boat to obtain fuel. Despite these difficulties, the community remained resilient and grateful for the assistance provided by Jakoa.
Overall, Jakoa’s commitment to addressing the needs of Orang Asli flood victims demonstrates the importance of timely and comprehensive support during times of crisis. By prioritizing the well-being of these communities and ensuring that all issues are promptly resolved, Jakoa plays a crucial role in safeguarding the welfare of the Orang Asli population throughout the country.