KAMPUNG AWAL

The Balai Sewang in Kampung Awal

5 friends of mine and me when for a camping trip in Kampung Awal, Jalong Tinggi on 7-8 February, 2009. The purpose of this trip is to get to know the ‘orang asli’ more and sight seeing. Kampung Awal is situated at the side of Sungai Korbu. Henry, the village chief (batin) is friendly and young [early 30s].

The camp site

Taufik is eyeing the Batin post!

We arrive at about 8.30 pm. Saidi and Atoi arrived earlier have set the camps. We looks for fire woods upon reaching the camp site. Sahul, Taufik and me when to the ‘balai sewang’ (community hall) to meet with the Batin of Kampung Awal [Henry], Kampung Pisang [Nasiri], Kampung Kenang [Saidin], Kampung Langkor, Kampung Hussin [Adenan] and a few young leaders. It is a fruitful meeting. I received a lot of feedback from them which I would e-mail to the Director of JHEO or higher authority to overcome their problems.

Electricity is the main agenda. Secondly, the schooling problems for the ‘orang asli’ children; follow by uplifting their living standard and conditions. These are the problems raised during the meeting. I will bring their needs to the Sungai Siput District Office, JHEO, federal development department and state government soon. Assistance from international organizations may be require.

I have suggested that they attend fishery training ran by the Fishery Department so that they can earn extra income to improve their economy and living standard. Villages at the river side are suitable to rear fish. There are many ways to rear fish now days. What they need are training and assistance. I will try my best to market for them domestically.

Other economy development plans are planting tapioca which fetch high price currently, planting rubber in the hilly area and palm oil in lower ground. If they can secure the area from wildlife, maybe livestock is a good move.

The children waiting for their toys and clothes

Me and the kids with their toys

With the support from friends, some toys and children clothes were brought to the ‘orang asli’ kids. They are happy with their toys. I intend to bring more toys in my next visit. The parents were told to ensure that their children attend school. Cikgu Saidi explained to the 'orang asli' kids the importance of education and how to study. Taufik advise them to be good and mix around with other races in school. Sahul motivate the adults try their luck in town working in factory. Atoi have fun playing with the children.

Group photo

Cikgu trying his new dress!

Sahul is serious with the kids!

Batin Henry and 2 villagers show us how they net fish in the river. The river is not deep, only waist high; however, the river is stonely. About 30 minutes, about 20 fishes were netted. Batin Henry's wife fried it for us. Fresh fried fish! YUMMY!

The scenery in Kampung Awal is beautiful. Fresh air, greenery surrounding, the sound of water flow and voices of nature made us happy. What a life here!

Fish netting in Sungai Korbu

PPRT - KAMPUNG KELAH

During my visit to Kampung Langkor on 1 February, 2009, I was told by the “Batin” (village headman) of Kampung Kelah that 7 Program Perumahan Rakyat Termiskin (PPRT) houses for Kampung Kelah was not complete. This programme was announced by previous Member of Parliament, Dato’ Seri Samy Vellu. I have checked the other houses which are built at the same time were completed and occupied.

Picture on the incomplete houses was taken and e-mail to the Director of Perak State JHEOA. He has replied that the contractor has been terminated and he has written to the Director General for additional fund to complete the houses.

I have informed the Batin and asked him to wait for the next few months; if no action taken I will remind the State Director and might write to the Director General personally.