Ramli (BN-Cameron Highlands), who was wearing a traditional Orang Asli headgear as he debated the royal address this morning, began his speech by referring to Article 160 of the constitution which concerns the definition of the Orang Asli, and Article 8(1) which touches on equality for all citizens.
He also cited Article 8(5) which protects the rights of the peninsular Orang Asli.
“As the article states, it is the statutory duty of the government to look after the welfare and well-being of the Orang Asli,” he said.
He thanked the previous Barisan Nasional (BN)-led administration for setting up and enhancing the Department of Orang Asli Welfare (Jakoa) and the institution of the tok batin, as well as prioritising the development of education for the community.
He said if there was anything lacking on the part of that administration, it is the duty of the new Pakatan Harapan government to perfect and carry out the agenda to develop the Orang Asli community in a more concerted manner.
“They must achieve more than BN did. Don’t find excuses, tricks, and don’t break your promise to the Orang Asli. Don’t neglect them,” he said.
Ramli also urged the government to increase its efforts to ensure that more Orang Asli children are able to attend school. Presently, he said, there are over 900 Orang Asli at public institutions of higher learning and 87 overseas.
“The number of Orang Asli at public institutions of higher learning can be increased by giving them a special priority lane to further their studies,” he said.
Ramli, a former senior cop, also called on the government to help improve the prices of commodities which are a source of livelihood for the community.
On road infrastructure, basic necessities and housing, Ramli urged the government to repair existing roads and build new ones to link these to the main thoroughfares.
“In terms of housing, dilapidated houses need to be repaired, and new housing built for free to cater to the increasing number of families.
“The government also needs to extend the links to clean water supply and electricity in rural areas.”
He urged the government not to delay in gazetting Orang Asli settlements to ensure the protection of Orang Asli lands, adding that it should set up a special committee to look into issues concerning their customary land.
He said Jakoa should be strengthened in terms of its organisational structure, and be given more financial allocations along with an increase in workers with integrity, transparency and dedication to ensure the well-being and progress of the community.
“Don’t turn Jakoa into a port or cold storage for problematic public service department officers,” he said, adding that the number of Orang Asli in the civil service should be increased as well.