The Orang Asli were displaced by the arrival of other cultures, their traditional land usurped and its natural resources exploited. Sure, we wouldn’t be where we are if not for that development. Yet, they have traditional ‘jungle skills’ which we would do well to learn. Some 50% of our land remain under jungle. Given a choice, would you go into the jungle without their guide?

It may take more than political will to bring the Orang Asli into mainstream society. Those who have successfully merged into our urban scene are few. Go to towns like Gopeng and Chenderiang and you’ll see them. But don’t turn it into a circus. They have endured more than most of us to survive their under-privileged existence. They deserve more than respect. They deserve our love and admiration.