MALAYSIA KUALA LUMPUR 25/11/2024 .Displaced Indigenous Malaysians Face Uncertain FutureVast amounts of the rainforest that once covered Peninsular Malaysia have been cut or burnt down for commercial purposes. The country is the world’s second highest producer of palm oil, following Indonesia, and also a major global trader in the timber and rubber industries. Driving across the country one is confronted with a distressing sight — the destruction of a once beautiful landscape. Many Orang Asli, the indigenous peoples of Malaysia who make their homes within the forest, have been relocated to make way for development and continue to pursue a long and constant battle for land rights. They are resettled in rural and semi-rural locations, or placed on the outskirts of larger cities, where they are encouraged to integrate into mainstream society, often unprepared for the difficulties in doing so.It is the upcoming generation who will endure the devastating brunt of climate change, especially the Orang Asli, whose lands are the marks of their identity and the legacy of their arts, culture, and tradition.H.BERBAR //BERBAR_HB1938/Credit:HALIM BERBAR/SIPA/2411251401