SHAH ALAM, May 3 — Selangor's Orang Asli community has been encouraged to pursue educational opportunities at higher levels to improve their socio-economic status and break out of the cycle of poverty.
State executive councillor for human resources, poverty eradication, and Orang Asli affairs Papparaidu Veraman said the state government provides various platforms, including Technical and Vocational Education and Training, to open up better future pathways for the younger generation.
“For example, at the Selangor Technical Skills Development Centre, we provide free education and hostel facilities across various skills sectors, including expertise in drones.
“Therefore, the community, especially parents, need to adopt a more forward-looking mindset and recognise that these fields contribute to progress and success in life,” he said.
Papparaidu was speaking to the media during the Academic Excellence Recognition Ceremony for Orang Asli students in the 2025 Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia examinations at the State Secretariat Building's Foyer today.
During the event, 13 Orang Asli students from the Kuala Langat, Sepang, Hulu Langat, Gombak, and Petaling districts who achieved excellent results received cash awards and plaques in recognition of their accomplishments.
He noted that the number of high-achieving students within the Orang Asli community has increased compared to previous years, demonstrating the effectiveness of efforts to expand access to education.
Meanwhile, the councillor reminded the village heads (tok batin) of Orang Asli settlements to play an active role in ensuring that children in their communities do not fall behind in education.
“We have nearly 22,000 Orang Asli in Selangor. Certainly, tok batins play an important role in ensuring this group is developed, including through assistance provided by the state government.
“Allocations are also provided for them to implement various programmes, and as leaders, the tok batins must be proactive in carrying them out for the success of their respective villages,” Papparaidu said.
