Kampung air banun: All 628 Orang Asli villages nationwide are set to have their health clinics either upgraded or newly established by the year 2035, as part of efforts to enhance healthcare facilities for the community, Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi announced. Ahmad Zahid, who also serves as the Rural and Regional Development Minister, emphasized that despite budgetary constraints, this initiative can be realized through collaboration between the Health Ministry (MoH) and the Department of Orang Asli Development (JAKOA).

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Ahmad Zahid, who also chairs the National Health Cabinet Committee, expressed confidence in the ability of the Health Ministry to work with JAKOA, with potential financial backing from the Finance Ministry, to overcome challenges such as high costs due to accessibility issues. This announcement was made at a press conference following the launch of the 2026-2035 National Social Determinants of Health Strategic Plan for Orang Asli (NSPSDHOA).

The strategy aims to address healthcare needs by ensuring disease prevention and continued access to treatment for the Orang Asli community. Ahmad Zahid highlighted the importance of prevention in areas such as nutrition and awareness to improve the daily lives of the Orang Asli. Additionally, he underscored the need for specialist doctors in district hospitals serving Orang Asli communities to comprehensively treat chronic diseases.

Amendments to the Aboriginal Peoples Act 1954 (Act 134) are also in the pipeline, with hopes that the Bill could be tabled at the next Parliament sitting before the end of the year. Ahmad Zahid noted the necessity of updating the Act, which has been in place for over 70 years, particularly concerning land matters under state jurisdiction. The proposed amendments will be presented to the Conference of Rulers for consideration, and thereafter, brought to the Cabinet for approval.