Celebrating a milestone: Global Peace Foundation Malaysia honoured with ASEAN Award for empowering Orang Asli communities

**Secretary-General Dr. Kao Kim Hourn and Minister Masagos Zulkifli presenting the ASEAN Award in Singapore**
**to Dr. Teh Su Thye, CEO of Global Peace Foundation Malaysia.**

Our landmark achievement in community upliftment.

Marking a significant milestone in our journey since 2014, Global Peace Foundation Malaysia has been honored with the prestigious 6th ASEAN Rural Development and Poverty Eradication Leadership Award 2023 on the 21st November.

This esteemed recognition is a testament to our unyielding dedication over the past eight years in empowering Orang Asli communities throughout Malaysia.

With a foundational mission to cultivate resilient and cohesive Orang Asli communities, the team at Global Peace has been pivotal in driving transformative change for various underserved groups across both Peninsular and East Malaysia.

This accolade is not just a trophy on a shelf but a symbol of transformative change for the Orang Asli communities since 2014.
Dr. Teh, CEO of Global Peace Foundation Malaysia

Commitment to progress.

Receiving this award is a significant milestone for the team. It reflects a collective effort involving the passion of the team, the support of partners and funders, and the resilience of the communities we work with.

With this momentous achievement in mind, the team remains steadfast in its commitment to continue driving positive change for the Orang Asli communities, forging a path towards a more inclusive and sustainable future for all.

“ This recognition encourages us to continue our work, to support the community and to uplift the living standard, wellbeing and sustainable livelihood for the community.”
Dr. Teh, CEO of Global Peace Foundation Malaysia

The journey moving forward will not be easy, but what matters is the dedication and collective resolve to overcome challenges and make a lasting impact in the lives of the Orang Asli communities.

Watch our video below to witness the real – life impact of our work and the stories of those who make it all possible.

The impact we had created for the OA communities.

Access to clean water and sanitation (2014 – Ongoing)

**A daily struggle for clean water, particularly strenuous and time-consuming for women in the community**

In an effort to address one of the most fundamental human needs, Global Peace Foundation Malaysia initiated a project across 109 Orang Asli villages in Pahang, Perak, Negeri Sembilan and Selangor.

Through the installation of household water filtration systems and solar water pumps, and the construction of washroom stalls, the project has profoundly impacted the families, enhancing their access to clean water and improving sanitation.

**153 toilets were constructed through direct involvement with local communities, enhancing sanitation and well-being**

2. All-Lights Village – Solar Electrification Project (2018 – Ongoing)

Focusing on sustainable energy solutions, this project spans across Sarawak in the Serian district and in Pahang, including Rompin and Pekan.

By providing renewable solar energy systems to 487 houses, the initiative has not only brought light into their homes but also fostered enhanced productivity and community well-being. Moreover, it significantly reduces the reliance on non-renewable fuel sources, contributing to a more sustainable and environmentally-friendly future.

**In the past, villagers used to burn**
**dried palm oil seeds to**
**light up their homes**.

3. Syntropic Farming for Orang Asli (Since September 2021)

This project, located in Pekan and Rompin, Pahang, aims to enhance agricultural practices to adapt to the changing climate and landscape. It trains Orang Asli farmers in the principles of Syntropic Farming, a regenerative farming method.

This sustainable approach has empowered 80 families to cultivate previously barren lands, thereby improving nutrition and food security across 21 villages.

**Farmers proudly display their freshly harvested produce**

A significant milestone of this project was the establishment of the Kebun Amai community brand, which highlights the unique agricultural produce of the Orang Asli. Building on this success, a Farmer’s Network committee (Ahli Jawatankuasa Jaringan Akar) was set up, promoting local leadership and fostering a sense of community among the farmers. This committee has become a vital platform for generating livelihood opportunities for the communities, enabling them to sustainably benefit from their agricultural endeavors.

***The Jaringan Akar committee during their meeting***

4. Access to Education and Development for Orang Asli children and youth

Mobile school for Orang Asli children (2021 – ongoing)

Confronting the alarming reality that over 80% of children in these communities are either out-of-school or have dropped out, the Mobile School project is making strides in reversing this trend.

Since its inception, the project has been instrumental in enhancing children’s reading, writing, and maths skills through engaging lessons, while also focusing on their social and emotional growth. The project instils pride in their Orang Asli heritage, trains local teachers for better education delivery, and fosters collaboration between parents and teachers for improved learning outcomes.

**14 orang Asli children have been reintegrated back into government schools**

Resilient OA Youth (2020 – ongoing)

The program encourages active youth participation in healthy activities, promoting social interaction and community engagement. This holistic approach is designed to equip Orang Asli youth with the necessary tools and confidence to thrive in today’s world while staying connected to their cultural roots.