MINDFUL of the Orang Asli plight, many farmers here try to help the community by allowing them to pick vegetables for free at their farms or sell their produce to them at low prices.

They said they hoped the little help they give would alleviate the community’s hardship and help them live a decent life.

The Malaysian Insight had visited several farms in Cameron Highlands and farmers related how they tried to do their bit for the Orang Asli community.

Farmer Ng Zhen Wei, 30, said he never charged the Orang Asli who comes to his farm to pick vegetables for their own consumption.

“We often given them the vegetables for free as they’re from here and most are struggling to make ends meet.

“We also don’t stop them from choosing any vegetables they want. They usually take what they need,” he said his farm.

The Orang Asli community is asking for better amenities, homes for their growing families and jobs.

These are their pleas to the by-election candidates who are contesting the Cameron Highlands parliamentary seat this Saturday.

The by-election will see a four-way fight between Barisan Nasional’s Ramli Mohd Nor, Pakatan Harapan’s M. Manogaran, and independents Sallehudin Ab Talib and Wong Seng Yee.

Another farmer, who only wanted to be known as Ooi, said he gives vegetables for free to the Orang Asli.

“It does not cost me much or affect my profit margin. I try to help whenever I can,” he said.

He said, occasionally, he and other farmers will take a drive down to the Orang Asli settlements to supply them with vegetables.

“Once a month we do this. It’s a community thing for us. This is the least we can do to help them,” said the 65-year-old.

Vegetable seller, Junia Mat Salin, 51 said the farmers are generous and would sell their produce at a low price.

She, too, helps the Orang Asli and would sell at cost to the Orang Asli but try to profit from tourists and other locals.

“Business here is not so good on weekdays, but during the weekends we can see some business,” she said. – January 25, 2019.