We are thrilled to share the success of the Indigenous Community Empowerment Program held at Kampung Orang Asli Paya Bungor, Kuantan, Pahang, on 18th and 19th January 2025. This two-day event was a collaborative effort to support and uplift the Semoq Beri and Jakun communities, with the participation of 54 students and 3 staff members from CFS IIUM Gambang.
Day 1: Training of Trainers and Gotong Royong
The program kicked off with a Training of Trainers session conducted by Br. Izdihar Ishak and Tn. Hj. Mahadi Bin Deraman from PERKIM Kuantan. The session equipped our students with the necessary skills to engage effectively with the Orang Asli community.
Following the training, our team participated in a gotong royong session to prepare the village for the next day’s activities. We helped set up tents, cleaned the Balai Raya and surrounding areas, and arranged tables and chairs for the upcoming events.
Day 2: Engaging with the Community
The second day was packed with activities designed to foster connection, motivation, and cultural exchange. Our team prepared and served meals for approximately 370 villagers, ensuring everyone was well-fed and cared for.
We also visited the villagers at their homes to better understand their needs and invite them to join the day’s activities. This personal interaction was crucial in building trust and rapport with the community.
Motivation and Cultural Activities
A Motivation Program was conducted to encourage Orang Asli students to value education. Through games and interactive activities, we aimed to inspire a love for learning among the younger generation.
To celebrate and revive traditional practices, we organized a Blow Pipe Competition (Menyumpit) and introduced an Archery Competition, both of which received enthusiastic participation from the villagers.
Other activities included a Colouring Competition, Weaving Demonstration, Sepak Takraw Competition, and Congkak Competition, all of which highlighted the rich cultural heritage of the Orang Asli community.
Spiritual and Closing Ceremony
The program also included spiritual activities such as an Ablution Session, Congregation Prayers, and a Tazkirah on Cleanliness at the surau. These moments of reflection and community prayer were deeply meaningful for the Muslim villagers.
The event concluded with a Closing Ceremony, where tokens of appreciation were presented to Tok Batin Deraman and Head Village Tok Jonni for their support and leadership. Food baskets, goodie bags, and pre-loved items were distributed to all villagers, ensuring that everyone left with something valuable.
A Successful and Meaningful Event
Alhamdulillah, the program was a resounding success, thanks to the active participation of the villagers and the dedication of our team. We look forward to organizing more impactful initiatives in the future to continue supporting the Orang Asli community.
Let’s continue to work together to empower and uplift indigenous communities! 🌿💪
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