Stereotypes mask Orang Asli students’ potential, says academic

 Yasir Mustafah says Orang Asli students display great potential, especially in STEM subjects, when provided the right learning opportunities.

International Islamic University Malaysia assistant professor Yasir Mustafah said many Orang Asli students were naturally curious, hands-on learners.
(Bernama pic)

KUALA LUMPUR:

 An academic says Orang Asli students are frequently subjected to stereotypes, with issues like irregular attendance and academic underperformance often overshadowing their potential and leading to harmful generalisations.

Yasir Mustafah from International Islamic University Malaysia (IIUM) said Orang Asli students displayed great potential – especially in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) subjects – when given the right learning opportunities.

Speaking at a panel discussion with education experts and an Orang Asli community leader today, the associate professor said many Orang Asli students were naturally curious, hands-on learners who thrived when exposed to practical, skill-based activities.

“There’s a lot of untapped potential. When they’re given the right support and tools, they’re able to excel too,” said Yasir, who teaches engineering and technology courses at IIUM.

He said he observed this while conducting a robotics programme with students at SMK Panggung Jaya in Gua Musang, Kelantan.

“When we taught them robotics, we saw they were incredibly hands-on and passionate. Despite having fewer resources than urban schools, their enthusiasm and discipline stood out,” he said.

Yasir said students from the school went on to win medals at national robotics competitions, including a bronze and gold medal in separate competitions.

“Some might say that it’s luck… But you can’t win a gold medal without talent. They earned those medals.

“They have the resilience, drive and ability to succeed. All they need is an opportunity,” he added.

Similarly, Suria Selasih Angit of the University of Nottingham Malaysia said Orang Asli students showed great creativity and resilience despite facing challenges in continuing their education.

The assistant professor at the university’s social sciences faculty said these students also showed strength in multilingualism, an often overlooked asset among them.

“Many of them speak at least two or three languages fluently, including Malay and their native languages such as Temiar and Semiar.

“This linguistic skill is something we should value more and not overlook,” she added.

Suria hails from the Temiar community and is a past winner of the Orang Asli Student Icon award.

The panel discussion was held during the launch of a report by the Institute for Democracy and Economic Affairs (IDEAS) addressing issues and challenges faced by the Orang Asli community in education. - FMT