KUALA LUMPUR – The Orang Asli Development Department (Jakoa), in collaboration with police and the Immigration Department, will take stern action against a Russian activist for allegedly continuing to collect donations for an Orang Asli community programme in Tapah, Perak, even though it has been cancelled.
Rural Development Minister Datuk Abd Latiff Ahmad in a statement today said Jakoa has previously issued a letter of approval to Valeriya Ashtashova to conduct an English Language Class programme in Kg Orang Asli Pos Woh, Tapah, on December 14 last year.
This was to provide an opportunity to individuals and non-governmental organisations to work hand in hand with the government to improve the level of education of the Orang Asli community, he added.
“However, Jakoa has learnt that the activist has misused the hall in the village by using it as private accommodation and bringing in other individuals without approval. She collects the donations via unregistered organisations.
“This is against the law, and raises the risk of spreading Covid-19 in the village. This persona has also criticised health services provided by the Health Department for the Orang Asli community on social media.”
Latiff said the string of violations has led to Jakoa revoking the approval to run the programme and requesting the individual in question to leave the village.
However, he added, she refuses to heed the directive and continues to release disparaging comments against the department, ministry and Malaysian government. – Bernama, April 2, 2021
