M’sians risk recolonisation if we become complacent: Orang Asli chieftain

BENTONG – For the Orang Asli, the notion of “independence” is of people being free from colonial rule, and given the liberty to do anything at all without being hindered or restricted by any outside party.

However, the community’s Bentong district chieftain (“ketua batin”) Razak Beretong expressed concerns that Malaysia will be “colonised” again if the country is still in political turmoil, allowing foreign nations to enter and dominate the nation. 

Speaking to The Vibes’ sister portal Getaran, Razak said the people should not be too complacent about their country’s independence, as they need to ensure history like the colonisation of Melaka is not repeated.

“While we are enjoying independence, foreign nations are at the same time looking for a way to ‘take over’ Malaya (Malaysia),” he said when met by Getaran at Kg Orang Asli Cinta Manis here today.  

“This matter must be looked at. Eventually, it goes back to politics because when the country’s political affairs are in limbo, that’s where they take advantage. 

“Of course the people would feel that they are free, but in enjoying our freedom, we must remember not to be too thrilled. We have to look at what is happening now from various aspects. 

“I’m really worried, for maybe not now but what will happen to the land of Malaya (Malaysia) in ten or 20 years to come.”

Therefore, Razak said, there is a need for the government to emulate the steadfastness of unity, economic achievements, and progress of foreign countries to strengthen Malaysia.

He said education for the Orang Asli community needs to be improved so that the country can produce knowledgeable citizens, as “education is a powerful weapon for the new generation to be equipped to face what’s to come in the future”.  

“How I see it is that if you are not knowledgeable, you do not have wealth. Three of my children were enrolled into public universities and I am proud of their achievements because I don’t want them to be like me. 

“That is the hope I have, not only for my son, but also for my people in this village so that we can compete with various communities. If possible, be more successful than me,” he said. 

Razak, who is also the “tok batin” (village leader) of Kg Orang Asli Cinta Manis, said the villagers wish to organise various programmes in conjunction with Merdeka Day to instil patriotism among residents, including children, as well as encourage them to wave the Jalur Gemilang. 

This is important, he said, to create more close-knit relationships between the villagers. 

“If there are no activities in conjunction with National Day, the community here will not mingle, even though they are related to each other, and bonds will not have been created,” he said. 

Razak also said he feels proud when parents begin instilling the spirit of patriotism in their children to appreciate the independence the country has achieved.  

“As of late, I have noticed that when August 31 is mentioned, (Orang Asli) already know what to do. They, along with their children, will put up the Jalur Gemilang in front of their houses to commemorate Malaysia’s celebration of Merdeka Day. 

“The children will see and take it as an example to be followed by generations to come,” he said. – The Vibes, August 31, 2022