We are given RM100 million, Orang Asli dept denies Najib’s claim

A motorcycle passes by an Orang Asli settlement in Pekan, Pahang. (Bernama pic)

KUALA LUMPUR: The Department of Orang Asli Development (Jakoa) has refuted an allegation by former prime minister Najib Razak that the current government did not provide funds for the Orang Asli community in Budget 2019.

Jakoa director-general Ajis Sitin said Putrajaya allocated RM100 million for the development and welfare of the Orang Asli community nationwide.

“The Pakatan Harapan government will focus on the construction and upgrade of roads to facilitate Orang Asli in their daily chores.

“Indirectly, the roads will help raise the socio-economic status of Orang Asli especially those living in the interior,” he said.

Najib had said PH did not provide any allocation for Orang Asli under Budget 2019.

Ajis said Jakoa would work to realise all efforts with the allocation provided.

“Jakoa now under the Prime Minister’s Department is taking proactive measures and will discuss with all parties to ensure the needs of the Orang Asli community are met,” he said. - FMT