Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia (MMM) recently took the initiative to give back to the community and part of that effort comprised donating high-power solar systems to enable access to solar energy in the Orang Asli’s shared community space; more commonly known as the rumah adat.

This donation to the Orang Asli community in Rompin, Pahang, was done through Global Peace Foundation, a non-profit organisation (NGO) with a mission to build resilient and cohesive Orang Asli communities.

Lack of access to grid electricity in Orang Asli’s houses and community spaces brings health risks, expensive energy expenses and environmental impact. To have light after dark, bonfires are frequently created by burning dried palm fruits which generate a lot of smoke that causes cough and watery eyes among the villagers, especially children.

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In addition, houses and community spaces are built from resources in the forest such as bamboo wood and additional items such as zinc and PVC. Some of these materials are flammable, making it dangerous to use fire as the source of light.

Some Orang Asli families also rely on disposable energy such as petrol to run generators and batteries to power more than just lights.

“As part of Malaysian society, we want to see Malaysians even the indigenous community live a better life. With high-power solar systems, we will be providing the Orang Asli community access to affordable and renewable energy that enhances productivity- allowing community projects to continue even after dark, minimizing health and environmental impact from non-renewable energy, lesser environmental pollution, and lastly reducing energy expenditure from buying expensive energy sources that are not sustainable,” said Arba Rahman, Senior Vice President of Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia.