Ethnozoological survey of the Orang Asli of Terengganu, Peninsular Malaysia

Abstract

The forest-dependent, indigenous people of Peninsular Malaysia are known as the Orang Asli. Few studies on animal resource utilisation among the Orang Asli have been done, and this study aims to characterise the animals utilised by them. A survey was conducted in Kampung Sungai Berua, Kenyir, during a seven-month period using the qualitative approach. This study found that the Orang Asli depend significantly on animals for their well-being and sustaining their livelihood. A total of 32 species of wildlife, comprising 13 mammals, 10 reptiles and nine birds, were recorded. Data obtained from the survey provide a clearer view of the use of wildlife among the Orang Asli in terms of household consumption, medicinal purposes, trading and companionship. This study provides the information to generate knowledge on animal utilisation by the Orang Asli in Kenyir, Hulu Terengganu, Terengganu.