JAKOA Advises Orang Asli To Manage Compensation Well, Avoid Scams

GUA MUSANG, Aug 21 (Bernama) -- The Orang Asli Affairs Department (JAKOA) has advised the Orang Asli communities in Pos Tohoi, Pos Pulat and Kampung Wias, who have received RM10 million in compensation due to the construction of the Nenggiri hydroelectric dam, to be vigilant and avoid being manipulated by irresponsible external parties.

JAKOA director-general Datuk Sapiah Mohd Nor said the department will monitor Orang Asli who have received compensation and will provide them with financial management guidance.

She said the community will receive briefings on financial literacy and the importance of savings through Amanah Saham Nasional Berhad to ensure the compensation funds are managed properly.

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“We do not want outsiders coming into the Orang Asli villages and selling them unnecessary items.

“As happened in the recent incident in the Orang Asli villages in Cameron Highlands, Pahang, I was informed that outsiders were selling SIM cards, which should have cost only a few ringgit, but were sold to the community for hundreds of ringgit,” she said.

She said this to reporters at the Strategic Appreciation and Cooperation Council meeting with the Orang Asli of Pos Tohoi and Pulat today.

If such incidents occur, she advised the Orang Asli concerned to report them to the police.

Today, RM10 million in compensation for crop and farm damage was distributed to 245 heads of households from the Orang Asli communities in Pos Tohoi, Pulat and Kampung Wias, who were affected by the construction of the Nenggiri hydroelectric dam.

The Nenggiri Hydroelectric Project, which costs RM5 billion, is expected to be completed by mid-2027 and create a main reservoir spanning 53.84 square kilometres and a regulation pond covering 0.97 square kilometres, with a capacity to generate 300 megawatts.

Additionally, this project will enhance renewable energy capacity in Peninsular Malaysia, play a key role in the country's energy transition and strengthen efforts to ensure a stable and reliable electricity supply for the people and the nation.

—BERNAMA