By: Zaki Salleh
IPOH – A total of 39 Orang Asli Tok Batin leaders from Hulu Perak, Perak Tengah and Hilir Perak took part in a three-day Leadership and Mind Transformation Programme from February 3 to 5.
Organised by the Department of Orang Asli Development (JAKOA) of Perak and Kedah, the programme aims to strengthen grassroots leadership in line with current development trends.
The programme began with a special briefing by the Perak and Kedah JAKOA Director on the role of Tok Batin in community development.
Participants were also introduced to the Sejati MADANI Project and socio-economic development opportunities in Orang Asli villages.
The highlight of the programme was an official visit to the Malaysian Parliament, which provided participants with insight into the role of the country’s legislative institution.
The visit was graced by Deputy Speaker of the Dewan Rakyat, Dato’ Ramli Mohd Nor, Member of Parliament for Cameron Highlands and an Orang Asli representative.
He emphasised the importance of education and community development while preserving the Orang Asli identity.
The programme is seen as a platform to empower Tok Batin leaders, serving as a bridge between the government and their communities, ensuring that development plans are understood and implemented effectively at the grassroots level.
It also aims to cultivate progressive Tok Batin leadership in line with the Malaysia MADANI vision without compromising traditional values.
