Outing for Orang Asli children

Oct 06, 2023

KUALA LUMPUR: In commemoration of World Humanitarian Day which is observed globally on August 19, the Ministry of the Poor and the Ministry for Orang Asli, both operating under the Archdiocesan Office for Human Development (AOHD), joined forces to organise a special two-day excursion for 32 Orang Asli from Pahang in Kuala Lumpur recently.

This adventure marked their first visit to the city, and it was met with great anticipation, particularly by the four to 14-year-old children who made up the majority of the group, accompanied by some of their parents and teachers.

After a lengthy five-hour journey by chartered bus from their rural village to the Archdiocesan Pastoral Centre (APC), they were warmly welcomed and given an opportunity to relax before indulging in dinner and a cozy movie screening. The highlight of the evening was an exhilarating Nerf Battle (Foam Darts) held at Dewan Dominic, where even the parents and teachers eagerly joined in on the action. Initially reserved, they cautiously acquainted themselves with the toy blasters during the first round, but soon adapted, strategised, and grasped the game’s dynamics. The night culminated after six competitive rounds of battle, leaving both adults and children brimming with excitement and smiles.

The following day, they were treated to a hearty breakfast and a tour of the AOHD office, as well as the premises of the Church of St Anthony. They then embarked on a bus journey to Zoo Negara. During the ride, some of the children were transfixed by the modern cityscape, gazing out the windows in awe, catching glimpses of iconic landmarks like the distant Petronas Twin Towers.

The group captured numerous collective memories with group photos before venturing in smaller clusters to explore the various animal enclosures. They were enthralled by the animal show, particularly enjoying the sea lion’s entertaining tricks performed with the help of its skilled trainers. The visit allowed them to encounter various animals, some familiar, and others, like the giant pandas, they encountered for the very first time. The day at the zoo concluded with a satisfying lunch before they made their way back to the bus at the entrance. Amidst heartfelt farewells, the group bid adieu, expressing a wish for more time to explore the city.

As they journeyed back to Pahang, they shared stories of their remarkable adventures and cherished the newfound friendships they had forged during this memorable experience. — By Devon Chew Social Communications Officer Archdiocesan Office for Human Development (AOHD)