Malaysian Initiative Transforms Orang Asli Farming Practices

In Kampung Pian, a small village nestled in the lush landscapes of Kuala Krai, Kelantan, a remarkable transformation is underway. The Orang Asli Juhut community, traditionally reliant on subsistence farming, is experiencing a surge in prosperity thanks to the "Inisiatif Sejati Madani" initiative. This program has introduced modern agricultural techniques, most notably a vertical farming system, to cultivate cucumbers and eggplants. Ahmad Rizal Fauzi, the chairman of the village's development and safety committee, explains, "This vertical system is efficient; it centralizes watering and fertilizing, saving time and resources." The results have been impressive. One farmer, Ayu Norehan Saleh, shared, "We're harvesting ten times more than before! We earn between RM8,000 and RM12,000 every 30 days." The success of this project is not only improving the economic well-being of the Juhut people but also serves as a shining example of how community-focused initiatives can drive positive change. Future plans to expand the project to chili cultivation promise even greater prosperity for this vibrant community.