PM Najib: Democracy in education provides opportunities for all

SERI ISKANDAR, Feb 15 — The democratic principles practised by the government in the field of education, has given wide opportunities and access for all races in the country, including the minority Orang Asli community, said Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak.

The prime minister said the principle, which was close to his heart, does not have any borders or restrictions to allow only the elite of those with status to acquire education, but rather offers opportunities for everyone.

“In line with the principle, the tool to transform the socio-economic status of any race, group or community can only be done through education. Maybe we can build roads, bridges or build houses.

“But there is nothing more valuable than getting access to quality education and the ability to continue such education at a higher level,” he said in his speech at the ‘Premier Indigenous Community Gathering with the Prime Minister’ programme aimed at transforming the destiny of Orang Asli, at Universiti Teknologi Mara (UiTM) here, today.

Najib (picture) said there was no limit or boundary to restrict the desire of anyone to use the facilities made available through the country’s education system, in efforts to enrich one’s knowledge, which would in return open opportunities to enhance income and become a progressive community.

“Being the Pekan state assemblyman, I have many Orang Asli in my constituency and I am well aware of the problems faced by the Orang Asli and understand their culture. 

“I am also aware of what Tok Batin Sahar from Kampung Lata Kinjang said because the Orang Asli are strong supporters of the government,” he said, referring to Sahar’s pledge to support the government although Orang Asli are a small community of 54,000 in Perak.

Najib said he was touched by Sahar’s speech that put forward the aspiration of the Orang Asli community because they do not want to be left behind in the wake of rapid development and transformation.  

“So, as a government, we must always take issues related to Orang Asli seriously and ensure their well-being... this is the Orang Asli’s feelings. In fact, everything starts with a dream and ambition and that should transform into reality,” he said.

Najib said, that was why when UiTM vice chancellor Prof Datuk Seri Dr Sahol Hamid Abu Bakar put forward a programme aimed at transforming the destiny of Orang Asli, he and the government gave full their commitment and also decided to attend the programme today. 

“There are 16,000 poor children in UiTM’s education system and it could not have become a reality without programmes like this. It also applies to Orang Asli. 

“The programme must go to the grassroots to identify Orang Asli children with potential and enrol them, although with minimum qualification,” he said.

Najib said whatever shortfalls in the Orang Asli community, must be rectified so that more Orang Asli children can progress. — Bernama