More than 600 Orang Asli youths and students are pursuing higher education at universities and colleges nationwide in 2026, marking a significant rise from previous years [1, 2, 3]. Four years ago, when the Department of Orang Asli Development (JAKOA) was realigned under the Rural and Regional Development Ministry, an initial target was set for 200 Orang Asli youths to enter higher education institutions [1, 2, 3].
In the first year after this realignment, more than 300 Orang Asli youths enrolled in universities, exceeding the initial target of 200 [1, 2, 3]. The following year, the target was raised to 300, but the actual number of Orang Asli youths entering universities grew to 400 [1, 2, 3].
Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said the increased participation of Orang Asli students shows "good social mobility because education is an element that can improve the social status of any community in the world" [1].
Efforts to empower Orang Asli education have expanded beyond universities to Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET). The Paya Bungor Training Centre in Maran, Pahang currently enrolls 135 Orang Asli students in both short- and long-term TVET courses [1, 2, 3].
In addition to educational support, the Johor state government allocated RM600,000 in 2026 to 60 Orang Asli villages, providing RM10,000 to each village to support their development and welfare [1, 2, 3].
The progress made over the past four years reflects sustained government support for Orang Asli education and social advancement. More Orang Asli youths are accessing tertiary education today than ever before, benefiting from expanded targets and resources.
The government continues to monitor and support Orang Asli education initiatives as their participation reaches over 600 students nationwide in 2026 [1, 2, 3].
