A Night with the Orang Asli

Aug 23, 2024

By Sabrina Smith
The Church of the Visitation hosted an immersive event A Night with the Orang Asli, designed to offer participants a deeper insight into the Orang Asli lifestyle.

This unique experience held in conjunction with the celebration of “Hari Orang Asal Sedunia” on August 18 in the Negeri District, attracted 40 enthusiastic participants eager to learn about and engage with the indigenous community.

Our journey began on Saturday afternoon as we arrived at the base of Kg Sebir. The adventure commenced with a hike to the village, which took approximately an hour. The trail was both challenging and rewarding as we navigated through dense jungle terrain. We made several stops along the way, allowing participants to rest and appreciate the surrounding natural beauty.

During these breaks, our guide offered insightful explanations about the significance of various locations on the trail, deepening our understanding of the environment and the Orang Asli's connection to the land. The hike, while demanding, fostered a sense of accomplishment and camaraderie. The return trip down the hill was slightly quicker as we became more familiar with the path.

Upon reaching the base again, we took some time to refresh ourselves in preparation for the evening's activities. As the sun set, we gathered around a campfire for a night of cultural exchange. The evening commenced with a feast featuring traditional Orang Asli delicacies, complemented by a BBQ session. This meal was a delightful introduction to the unique flavours and culinary traditions of the Orang Asli people.

After the meal, we heared from Albert Ezuli, the leader of Kg Sebir, who presented on Who are the Orang Asli? He provided a comprehensive overview of the Orang Asli’s history, culture, and way of life, and he candidly shared the challenges the community faces, including the struggle to maintain their traditional lifestyle amidst modernization and environmental threats. The session was particularly engaging, sparking a lively discussion among participants. Many had questions, and Albert’s responses offered deeper insights into the struggles and resilience of the Orang Asli people. Meanwhile, the children enjoyed games around the campfire, adding to the joyful atmosphere and showcasing the warmth and hospitality of the Orang Asli community.

One of the memorable aspects of the experience was the challenge of showering with water sourced directly from the hills. The water was icy cold, made even more intense by the rain that fell that evening. For many of us, accustomed to the comfort of heated showers, this was a stark and humbling reminder of the simplicity and resilience of the Orang Asli lifestyle. Despite the discomfort, the experience was invigorating and added to the authenticity of our stay.

As night fell, we settled into our accommodations, enveloped by the soothing sounds of nature. The night was peaceful, offering many a moment to reflect on the simplicity and serenity of life in the village.

The following morning, we enjoyed a simple yet hearty breakfast prepared by the Orang Asli community. After breakfast, we came together for a feedback and sharing session. Participants were encouraged to share their thoughts and suggest improvements for future programs. The session proved constructive, with many expressing their appreciation for the opportunity to connect with and learn from the Orang Asli.

After the feedback session, we shifted our focus to preparing for the Sunday Mass. The Mass was celebrated at Kg Sebir by Fr Philip Tay, OCD, the assistant parish priest. The setting was intimate and meaningful, as we gathered in the heart of the village to worship alongside the Orang Asli community. It was a powerful moment of unity and spiritual connection, made even more special by the natural surroundings.

Following the Mass, we shared a final meal with the Orang Asli community. Lunch was a communal affair, filled with laughter, stories, and a deep sense of camaraderie. It was a fitting conclusion to an enriching and eye-opening experience. After lunch, we bid farewell to our gracious hosts and began our journey back home, carrying with us the memories and lessons learned during our time with the Orang Asli.