Orang Asli women thrive through upskilling

In the heart of Malaysia’s rich cultural tapestry, amidst thriving urban centers and lush landscapes, a remarkable transformation is unfolding. Orang Asli women, often overlooked in the whirlwind of rapid development, are not just breaking barriers in their own lives but also igniting change within their communities. The catalyst for this transformation? Upskilling, empowerment, and meaningful employment.

Established in 2019, The Asli Co. has emerged as a beacon of hope and change for Orang Asli women. This social enterprise has a mission to provide these women with opportunities to upskill, secure meaningful employment, and ultimately achieve financial stability.

The Asli Co.’s initiative, in collaboration with over 60 mothers from Orang Asli communities, has disbursed more than RM1.5 million to cover raw materials, equipment, and wages. This endeavor not only empowers these women to lead better lives but also ensures their children’s access to education.

Two remarkable women, Rosnina and Noremely, embody the transformational journey catalyzed by upskilling. They aren’t just contributors to their households but also champions of pride and self-sufficiency within their communities.

Rosnina’s stitched dreams

Rosnina, a resilient mother of three from Kampung Orang Asli Serendah, Temuan tribe, embarked on her path to a brighter future when she joined The Asli Co.’s sewing workshop in 2020. Bolstered by determination and supported by her sister, Zulaika, she ventured into the world of sewing and self-discovery. Today, Rosnina is more than a skilled artisan; she’s a symbol of empowerment within her community.

Her journey involved mastering the art of sewing using a machine and witnessing remarkable growth in self-confidence. Beyond her village, Rosnina now confidently interacts with people, showcasing her newfound skills with pride. “I’m very happy that I’m now very skilled at sewing these products,” she beams. The flexible working hours enable her to balance her duties as a mother of three young children, all under the age of five. “Mostly, I’m very glad I’m able to help with my family’s expenses by earning a good income. The flexible working arrangement is great,” she adds.

Noremely’s soap of independence

Noremely, hailing from Kampung Orang Asli Desa Temuan, had grappled with financial hardships before joining The Asli Co. Providing food on the table was often a challenge, and school expenses seemed like a distant dream for her family. The Asli Co. altered Noremely’s trajectory by offering her a stable income through soap crafting.

Now, she proudly caters to her family’s needs and desires, ensuring there’s always enough to eat. “I am happy that with The Asli Co., I can also help my husband generate income to pay bills and buy daily household needs,” says Noremely. Her journey serves as an inspiration to other Orang Asli mothers, illuminating the path to enhance their family’s standard of living through meaningful employment and economic empowerment.

A broader transformation

The narratives of Rosnina and Noremely extend beyond individual success stories; they represent a broader transformation unfolding within Orang Asli communities. These stories underscore the untapped potential inherent in every Orang Asli woman. Through the opportunities presented by upskilling and meaningful employment, these remarkable women are not just breaking barriers but also nurturing empowerment within themselves and their communities.

The Asli Co.’s mission transcends the mere creation of products; it’s about shaping brighter futures for the resilient Orang Asli women who form the bedrock of their families and contribute significantly to Malaysia’s diverse cultural tapestry. As Rosnina and Noremely stitch and craft for a brighter tomorrow, they stand as living testimonials to the transformative power of upskilling and the boundless possibilities it offers to those who dare to dream.