Latest news with #Semai
The Star
5 days ago
- Business
- The Star
Orang Asli women turn nature's bounty into beauty products
Kristina showing the herbal charcoal facial soap made by The Women of Orang Asli Tapah. ORANG ASLI women in Kampung Batu 10, Tapah in Perak, are transforming their lives and their community through beauty products made from everyday ingredients like oats, turmeric and coffee. Known as The Women of Orang Asli Tapah, the group of 15 Semai women aged between 24 and 53 comprise housewives, single mothers and women with disabilities. What began with a soap-making workshop under the Perak Children's Aspiration Centre (Pasak) in June 2022 has blossomed into a social enterprise. Through the Koperasi Wanita Orang Asli Semai Tapah Bhd (Kowast), the women now produce and sell a variety of personal care items including facial masks, lip balms, body scrubs, face oils, and perfumes. Their creations are sold at local carnivals and community exhibitions, offering a natural alternative to mainstream beauty products. Chairman Kristina Bah Uda told Bernama the group's growth accelerated after receiving a RM100,000 grant under the Sejahtera Madani Community (SejaTi Madani) programme in October last year. 'The grant was a game-changer. It helped us meet key cosmetic industry standards, including licensing and product registration with the Health Ministry and Intellectual Property Corporation of Malaysia (MyIPO),' she said. A Kowast member showing how to use a beauty product, which is made by the cooperative comprising 15 Semai women. — Photos: Bernama Among their standout products are the Ubtan Soap Bar, which is made from fennel seeds, chickpea powder, oats and sandalwood. Other popular products are herbal charcoal soap, avocado soap and coffee soap. The funding also covered laboratory testing at Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM) and equipment purchases such as microwave ovens and digital scales to boost their manual production capacity. 'National Pharmaceutical Regulatory Agency (NPRA) cosmetic approval alone cost us RM18,000, UKM testing RM10,000 and MyIPO registration about RM6,000. 'All of it was possible through SejaTi Madani,' said Kristina. Looking ahead, The Women of Orang Asli Tapah is eyeing national and even international markets, encouraged by strong support from Pasak, Orang Asli Development Department (Jakoa) and the Cooperative Commission of Malaysia (SKM). Though still in the early stages of branding and promotion, the impact is already being felt. 'Most of us were housewives without a fixed income. 'Now, some are earning RM300 to RM500 monthly from product sales,' Kristina added. The SejaTi Madani programme is part of the larger Madani Economic Framework aimed at improving community well-being and tackling hardcore poverty. Grants ranging from RM50,000 to RM100,000 are awarded to eligible communities in five key sectors: agriculture and food, tailoring and handicrafts, herbal and wellness, tourism and hospitality as well as green and recycling activities.
The Star
16-06-2025
- General
- The Star
Planting the seeds of change
IN the heart of Raub, Pahang, where jungle paths curve alongside rivers and clouds linger low over the durian trees, lives a man named Ezra and his 103-year-old mother. A proud member of the Semai tribe, Ezra has made a home for his family on the fringes of the Naza Agro Plantation – land where tradition and toil walk hand in hand. 'I'm from Kampung Ulu Ruai,' he says with quiet pride. 'By the river.' His days begin early. Before the mist lifts, Ezra walks over to the fields where he works. He used to walk 20km before they moved closer to the durian plantation. There are no cars here, just strong legs, quiet strength, and the rhythm of footsteps on dirt roads. The work at the plantation is hard, but steady. Unlike the uncertain earnings of rubber tapping back in the village, this new life brings a monthly income, the chance to save, to plan. In many ways, the presence of agroindustries like Naza Agro's durian plantation in Raub is bringing meaningful change to the Semai community. Developing the area into a durian plantation offered steady work for nearby Orang Asli and allowed them to build their own wooden homes on-site, bringing families with them. Once isolated in deep forest villages with no road access, the Semai now enjoy more stable lives while still preserving their traditional ways – farming, gathering firewood, and raising children close to nature. The Semai community in Raub live near the river. — Photos provided Ezra's story is not one of nostalgia alone. It is a mirror held up to a community navigating between forest and future. On quiet afternoons, his mother and sister weave ambong – burden baskets made of rattan and palm that echo centuries of Semai craftsmanship and way of life. Lightweight and sturdy, the ambong was heaved onto the back to gather goods from the forests, reminiscent of a time when food and all necessities of life come direct from the wilderness. They do not need to hunt or forage now as there are better opportunities for income, like the one offered by the durian plantation. Still, they reminisce about older days, even though they speak less of stories now as their memories have blurred with age. But their hands remember. With hands that have seen a century of change, Ezra's mother still washes dishes and cooks meals daily for the family. She looks hardly a day over 80, wiry and determined, a few strands of silver hair escaping her tightly coiled bun. Ezra's 103-year-old mother can still do housework every day. 'She can't lift heavy things anymore,' Ezra, who looks young for his age too, shares as he gently gestures at his mother. 'But she's still strong in spirit.' A future cultivated with care Though the world encroaches with its asphalt and schedules, the Semai remain rooted in something older: Adat (customs) and rules passed down through breath, not books. 'We were taught not to walk in the hot sun too long,' Ezra says. 'If we break the rules, we fall sick. That's what we believe.' And there's a certain ancient wisdom in those words. When rules are transgressed, one pays the price. Ezra speaks with tenderness about his ancestors, about forest healers, storytellers, and of pantang larang – the taboos and rituals that once shaped every decision. However, he adapts his life, he's not trapped by past rituals. Despite a quiet acceptance of change Ezra's soul is tethered not to economics but to heritage. Between bamboo flutes and bass guitars, between forest walks and formal wages, a new future is forming. A legacy of storytelling Like his mother, Ezra is a storyteller in his own right – through music. 'I write songs, Sewang songs,' he explains, referring to the ceremonial music and dance once central to Semai life. 'We perform them during weddings, festivals, whenever there's a gathering.' With his family band, he has composed and performed original pieces, winning singing competitions across the Raub district. His lyrics call young people to dance, to remember. 'Nalek koin berpusing,' he sings softly. 'It means, 'Youth, come together, let's sewang'.' In between work and song, Ezra still dreams of recording more music. He once practiced in Raub town with a friend – now gone – and hopes to find new space, new strength to continue. His music blends tradition with the familiar chords of guitars and bass, but at its heart is the echo of bamboo rhythms, struck against earth. Yet many of the children have never been to school. Many marry in their teenage years. A recent health screening organised by Yayasan Tan Sri SM Nasimuddin brought a nurse to the community. The children were happy and carefree. When asked who had brushed their teeth that morning, no one raised a hand. But their smiles were bright, untouched by sugar, by city life. Still, Ezra's world is expanding. He believes in choice, in balance. 'Some of us go to hospitals now. Some still see the village healer. My mother – she doesn't trust injections. I don't force her.' And perhaps that is the lesson. In Ezra's life, the modern and the ancient do not clash, they walk side by side, like riverbanks holding the same current. His is a journey of work, of care, of song. Of holding fast to who you are, while stepping gently into what could be. And as Ezra's mother stood up to leave, she arranged the chairs back for people to sit. There was a youthful spring in her step as the 103-year-old walked without hesitation over a large drain to make the long walk home. On foot. Bun in place. There is so much we can learn from the Semai. Ninot Aziz is an author and president of the National Oral Literature Association. The views expressed here are solely the writer's own.
Free Malaysia Today
27-05-2025
- General
- Free Malaysia Today
Lata Kinjang waterfall lifeblood of Orang Asli
Lata Kinjang waterfall, one of the highest in Southeast Asia, is located about 18km from Tapah town. (Bernama pic) TAPAH : Cascading from a height of about 850m, Lata Kinjang waterfall – one of the highest waterfalls in Southeast Asia – is clearly visible when travelling along the north-south highway, beckoning road users to pause to take in its natural beauty before continuing their journey. Located about 18km from Tapah town, this multi-tier waterfall flows swiftly from the peak of the Titiwangsa range. Yet, it is more than just a scenic attraction – it holds deep significance for members of the Semai Orang Asli community, who have inhabited the area for nearly a century. According to Rani Ulin, the 'tok batin' or head of Kampung Orang Asli Lata Kinjang, the waterfall has been a lifeline for his community since their forefathers settled there in the 1930s. 'For four generations, many of our activities have centred around the waterfall. We gather forest produce, carry out farming and fishing activities, and make use of the various natural resources available around the falls. 'The waterfall remains the heart of our livelihood. As long as it continues to flow beautifully, so, too, will our spirit,' he said when met by Bernama recently. Rani Ulin. Rani explained that 'lata' means 'waterfall', while 'kinjang' refers to a type of deer. These symbolise the harmony of nature, which has remained well preserved in Lata Kinjang despite its relative proximity to Perak's capital, Ipoh. Now known as Taman Eko Rimba Lata Kinjang, the area has been under the management of the local Orang Asli community since February 2022 through Lata Kinjang Orang Asli Cooperative Bhd. The cooperative was established to improve the livelihoods of the indigenous community here. So far, it has provided jobs to 25 villagers. 'We're very happy to offer job opportunities to the youths here,' Rani said. 'They no longer need to migrate elsewhere to earn a living. Instead, they can serve and develop their own village. 'It's not just about providing employment; we've also become more confident in competing in the tourism sector. Tourism has become a major catalyst for our village economy.' Rani hopes tourists and other visitors will help protect Lata Kinjang's natural environment, which has remained well preserved despite its proximity to Ipoh. (Bernama pic) Rani, who is also the secretary of the cooperative, hopes his community will continue to receive support from relevant parties so that Lata Kinjang remains a natural treasure for future generations. 'We want the younger ones to feel proud of their ancestral land. As long as we can preserve the beauty and heritage of Lata Kinjang, there will always be opportunities for future generations to enjoy and benefit from it. 'We hope tourists and everyone who visits Lata Kinjang will help protect its natural environment. Development is important, but balance and sustainability are the keys to ensuring that Lata Kinjang continues to provide benefits in the future.'
Free Malaysia Today
24-05-2025
- Free Malaysia Today
Young Semai female pilot breaks barriers in M'sian aviation
Wak Elizabeth Tan Say Hong with the 409kg Pegasus Quantum at the Mahsuri International Exhibition Centre in Langkawi. (Bernama pic) LANGKAWI : Under the blazing sun at the Aircraft Static Display area of the Langkawi International Maritime and Aerospace Exhibition 2025 (Lima), a young woman can be seen meticulously cleaning a microlight Under the blazing sun at the Aircraft Static Display area of the Langkawi International Maritime and Aerospace Exhibition 2025 (Lima), a young woman can be seen meticulously cleaning a microlight aircraft Wearing a constant smile and speaking with enthusiasm, Wak Elizabeth Tan Say Hong, 19, cheerfully explains the features of the small aircraft and the services offered by Flytrike, a light aviation company participating in the 17th edition of Lima. What many may not expect, however, is that Tan is not just part of the exhibition team – she is one of Flytrike's pilots. Even more remarkably, she is of Semai descent, with Chinese heritage through her father. 'I never imagined becoming a pilot. But my father always dreamed of being one, and that sparked my own interest,' she told Bernama when met at the display area of the Mahsuri International Exhibition Centre. Tan's passion for aviation began after she casually tried paragliding after sitting for her SPM. That first experience sparked a genuine desire to fly. 'My early career started with Flytrike, which offers tandem services. I trained under them until I completed my first solo flight. I'm now undergoing tandem training,' she said. The requirements, she shared, are simple: good health, not being colour blind, and legs long enough to reach the throttle. The second of four siblings, Tan hopes to inspire others from the Orang Asli community to chase their dreams. 'My mother is Orang Asli from Batu 17, Jalan Tapah in Cameron Highlands. She grew up in the jungle, without internet or even a fridge. After marrying my Chinese father, they moved to Petaling Jaya in Selangor. 'To succeed, there's really nothing impossible – no matter where you come from or your background,' she said. Tan is now working to complete the required flying hours to qualify for her full pilot's licence. This being her first time at Lima, she said she was thrilled by the experience, especially seeing aircraft and helicopters from various countries up close on the tarmac. As for the microlight she flies, Tan describes the 409kg Pegasus Quantum as 'unique', saying the aircraft seats two people and offers a different kind of flying experience compared to conventional planes. 'The microlight's control system works in reverse – push to go up, pull to go down. Its open design offers a more immersive flight experience. You can feel the wind and the surroundings directly, unlike looking through a small window in a commercial plane,' she explained. Lima, which concludes today in Langkawi, has been Southeast Asia's largest maritime and aerospace exhibition since its inception in 1991.
The Star
23-05-2025
- Business
- The Star
Teen Semai pilot breaking barriers in Malaysian aviation
Flytrike pilot Wak Elizabeth with the Pegasus Quantum microlight aircraft at Lima'25. – Bernama LANGKAWI: Under the blazing sun at the static aircraft display area of the Langkawi International Maritime and Aerospace Exhibition 2025 (Lima'25), a tall young woman can be seen meticulously cleaning a microlight aircraft. Wearing a bright smile, Wak Elizabeth Tan Say Hong, 19, enthusiastically explained the features of the small aircraft and the services offered by Flytrike, a light aviation company. However, she is not just an ordinary employee – she is one of Flytrike's pilots. Uniquely, Wak Elizabeth is of Semai descent from Cameron Highlands. "I never imagined becoming a pilot. My father, though, always dreamed of being one and that sparked my interest," she said when met at the Mahsuri International Exhibition Centre (MIEC) here. Wak Elizabeth's passion for aviation was sparked after a paragliding experience after sitting for her Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia (SPM) exam. "My career started with Flytrike, a private light aviation company that offers tandem services. I trained under them until I completed my first solo flight and I'm now undergoing tandem training," she said. She said requirements are straightforward – good health, no colour blindness and legs long enough to reach the throttle. The second of four siblings, Wak Elizabeth also hopes to inspire others from the Orang Asli community to chase their dreams. "My mother is an Orang Asli from Batu 17, Jalan Tapah in Cameron Highlands. She grew up in the jungle – without Internet or even a fridge. After marrying my Chinese father, they moved to Petaling Jaya, Selangor. "To succeed, there's nothing impossible – no matter where you come from or your background," she said, adding she is now working to complete the required flying hours to qualify for a full pilots licence. Wak Elizabeth said she was thrilled by the experience of being at Lima'25 for the first time, especially seeing aircraft and helicopters from various countries up close on the tarmac. Describing the microlight she flies – a 409kg Pegasus Quantum – as unique, Wak Elizabeth said the aircraft seats two people and offers a different kind of flying experience compared to conventional planes. "The microlight's control system works in reverse – push to go up, pull to go down. Its open design gives a more immersive flight experience. You can feel the wind and the surroundings directly, unlike looking through a small window in a commercial plane," she said. Lima'25, held from May 20 to 24 in Langkawi, is South-East Asia's largest maritime and aerospace exhibition since its inception in 1991. – Bernama COMP Wak Elizabeth, Pilot, Microlight Aircraft, Semai, Orang Asli
