The role of agencies in implementing the social development programs to improve the well-being of Orang Asli communities in Terengganu, Malaysia

Abstract

The Orang Asli community is one of the indigenous peoples in Peninsular Malaysia, most of them live in rural areas and are still lagging in the country's development progress. The agencies have implemented various social development programs to improve their well-being status, but no such impact has been encouraging so far. This study's objectives are (i) to explain the social development programs that have been implemented and (ii) identify the agency's role in implementing the social development program on the Terengganu Orang Asli community. This study involved agencies such as the Department of Orang Asli Development (JAKOA), Department of Islamic Development Malaysia (JAKIM) and Health Clinic in the Orang Asli village of Sungai Berua, Terengganu. This study uses qualitative methods in the form of case studies. Data were collected through observation and interviews using objective sampling techniques and analysed and coordinated with NVIVO software 11. The study results found that social development programs that have been implemented by JAKOA that are physical assistance projects include home improvement projects, construction of public facilities and infrastructure such as ballrooms, surau and water tanks. Next, JAKIM, implementing a program in the form of spirituality including fardhu ain class programs, marriage courses and funeral management. The health sector is implementing women's and adult health programs, children's health programs and outpatient health programs. This study also found that the agencies play a role in planning a program and cooperating with other agencies to implement it. In conclusion, there two agencies involved in implementing the social development programs, namely JAKOA and JAKIM. Both has played a significant role and success in implementing the proposed programs.