Semarak Siswa JAKOA Aims To Enhance Support Network For Orang Asli Students

KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 21 (Bernama) -- The Department of Orang Asli Development (JAKOA) organised the inaugural 'Semarak Siswa JAKOA' today, to establish a robust support network and enhance communication between the agency and Orang Asli students enrolled in institutions of higher learning (IPTs).

Held at a hotel in the capital, the programme attracted 100 Orang Asli students, currently pursuing their tertiary education at various public and private IPTs across the country.

In her speech, JAKOA director-general Datuk Sapiah Mohd Nor emphasised that this initiative aims to recognise the critical role Orang Asli students play in uplifting knowledge for the advancement of their community.

“This event also seeks to gather feedback on the current challenges, issues, and obstacles faced by these students, as well as suggestions for improvements to enhance their development,” she said.

Sapiah further noted that the programme could empower Orang Asli students to strategise and coordinate new initiatives which foster the development of exceptional personalities, thereby inspiring their community to pursue success.

“We can also enhance promotion and provide Orang Asli students with information about resources, opportunities, and current offerings available to the community,” she stated.

Speaking to reporters after the ceremony, Sapiah expressed her intention to continue the programme in the future.

“I am committed to making 'Semarak Siswa JAKOA' an annual event. On a smaller scale, we plan to hold it twice a year, at the beginning and the end of each year,” she added.

--BERNAMA