Melaka Gov't To Ensure Orang Asli Are Not Left Out Of State's Development - Ab Rauf

ALOR GAJAH, Sept 3 (Bernama) -- The Melaka government will continue to ensure the Orang Asli community in the state is not left out of the state's mainstream development, ensuring the group enjoys facilities and assistance to improve their standard of living, says Chief Minister Datuk Seri Ab Rauf Yusoh.

He said this included an open hall worth RM400,000 for the Orang Asli community in Kampung Orang Asli Bukit Payung here, which would allow the community to run various programmes, strengthen ties and improve their social skills.

Six laptops worth RM15,000 were also donated to Orang Asli children in the village to encourage them to excel in their studies.

"I want the children in Bukit Payung to know that their background and where they grow up do not determine how far they can go. If they want to learn, succeed and change their family's future, the government will stand with them," he said in his speech here today.

Ab Rauf was speaking at the Taboh Naning state constituency 'Ketua Menteri Sayang Rakyat' tour programme, which was also attended by Taboh Naning assemblyman Datuk Zulkiflee Mohd Zin.

Meanwhile, the Chief Minister said the state government aimed not only to provide assistance but also to create opportunities for the people to generate income and improve their livelihoods.

He cited the donation of a RM6,000 three-wheeled motorcycle to a single mother who sold fruits as an effort to help her earn a living and increase her income.

"To some, the value may seem small, but for a small trader, such assistance can be a tool to earn a living, support their family and stand on their own feet," he said.

"What I mention here is not just a list of aid. Behind these figures is a humanitarian value that the government must fulfil for the people of Melaka, because I want to see changes every time the government visits an area," he added.

Meanwhile, the recipient of the motorcycle, Dahayah Abdullah, 55, from Taman Jati Indah, Simpang Ampat here, said she would use the vehicle to sell cut fruits and nasi lemak to support herself.

The mother of seven said her current motorcycle was dilapidated, having been used since she started her business over 15 years ago.

"Alhamdulillah, I did not expect to receive such a valuable donation... I could not afford to buy a new motorcycle," she said.

-- BERNAMA