THE government has intensified its rural development agenda under the MADANI framework with the launch of a solar-powered infrastructure project in Kampung Orang Asli Berasau, Kluang, Johor, aimed at improving essential services and narrowing the urban–rural divide.
The initiative, part of the Kampung Angkat MADANI programme, is led by the Ministry of Energy Transition and Water Transformation (PETRA), and represents one of the government’s flagship efforts to upgrade basic infrastructure in rural communities.
The project was inaugurated by Deputy Prime Minister II Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof today, alongside Johor Menteri Besar Datuk Onn Hafiz Ghazi.
The project was officially launched at Kampung Orang Asli Berasau, where authorities highlighted that it is designed not as a one-off aid scheme but as a long-term development intervention aimed at ensuring no community is left behind.
Fadillah, in his speech, said the initiative was first introduced in the 2024 Budget as a benchmark approach to improving rural access to electricity, clean water, roads and digital connectivity through a “whole of government” strategy.
Under the programme, 43 villages benefited in 2024, rising sharply to 219 villages in 2025, with the government targeting up to 500 villages by 2026 following positive impact assessments.
“At Kampung Orang Asli Berasau, PETRA has implemented a RM2.5 million infrastructure package following consultations with residents and local authorities.
“The key components include 24-hour reliable electricity supply and a fully covered solar-powered community hall for social, educational and official activities serving both Berasau and surrounding villages,” Fadillah added.
The hall features an integrated photovoltaic system designed to function as both a communal facility and an energy-generating structure, providing continuous electricity to the area.
The system uses an off-grid solar photovoltaic setup with a capacity exceeding 50 kilowatt peak and energy storage of 516 kilowatt hours, enabling the village to operate independently from the national electricity grid.
Fadillah, who also serves as Energy Transition and Water Transformation (PETRA) Minister said the project is the first of its kind implemented in a remote Orang Asli settlement located far from main road networks, benefiting more than 20 households alongside the community hall.
The implementation involves collaboration between PETRA, the Sustainable Energy Development Authority Malaysia, and the Public Works Department Malaysia, along with federal and Johor state agencies.
He said the initiative aligns with Malaysia’s MADANI vision, which emphasises inclusivity, sustainability and equitable access to infrastructure, particularly for rural and indigenous communities.
By introducing clean solar energy systems, the programme aims not only to improve daily living conditions but also to reduce reliance on conventional energy sources in rural areas.
The government said the project reflects its broader commitment to social equity and balanced regional development, ensuring that rural and Orang Asli communities receive infrastructure upgrades comparable to urban areas under Malaysia’s long-term development strategy. - April 18, 2026
