Reach & Rise: Orang Asli Empowerment Programme 2025 at Kampung Paya Mendoi, Temerloh, Pahang

The Reach & Rise: Orang Asli Empowerment Programme  2025 was successfully conducted on 6 September 2025 at Kampung Paya Mendoi, Temerloh, Pahang. This initiative was committed to reaching out to the Orang Asli community and aiding them in their rise to empowerment. It signified a comprehensive effort to uplift and empower the Orang Asli community, particularly the younger generation, through educational, healthcare, and developmental activities.

A total of 41 helpers and volunteers supported the programme, which offered a variety of impactful activities for the Orang Asli community. Highlights included a free market distribution of basic necessities, free cancer and health screenings by the National Cancer Society Malaysia (NCSM), and a series of educational sessions. Among these were “Hello from TAR UMT”, featuring a mini quiz conducted by Maaran a/l Arumugam, SRC President and TAR UMT Student Ambassador; “Know Yourself, Plant Your Dream” by Dr Masni a/p Mat Dong, designed to inspire youth; and Fun Learning Experiences tailored for children and youth to promote interactive learning.

The closing ceremony was officiated by YB Senator Shahrol Wizan bin Sulong and attended by distinguished guests, including a representative from JAKOA Temerloh, Tok 4 Misamardzan Saney Anak Sambut, Tan Ying Yi (Branch Head, TAR UMT), Nur Hidayahtul Nabihah Binti Manas (Deputy Branch Head, TAR UMT), and Assistant Prof. Dr Masni a/p Mat Dong. The event concluded with a vibrant performance by Kuantan Diabolo, a lucky draw, and a group photo session before lunch, venue clean-up, and the return to campus.

Overall, the programme not only provided healthcare support, education, and cultural exchange, but also effectively achieved its aims of empowering the Orang Asli community, fostering lifelong learning, and strengthening TAR UMT’s role as a collaborative partner in community development.