Lata Kinjang's Eco-Tourism Cooperative: A Community-Driven Venture

Ummi Salwa Ahmad Bustamam; Mohd Shahron Anuar Said; Zurita Mohd Saleh; Nor Arma Abu Talib; Siti Hafizah Ramli; Amalina Ibrahim

Authors

Ummi Salwa Ahmad Bustamam University Sains Islam Malaysia
Mohd Shahron Anuar Said Cooperative Institute of Malaysia
Zurita Mohd Saleh Cooperative Institute of Malaysia
Nor Arma Abu Talib Cooperative Institute of Malaysia
Siti Hafizah Ramli Cooperative Institute of Malaysia
Amalina Ibrahim Cooperative Institute of Malaysia

Abstract

The Orang Asli, or indigenous populations, are groups characterized by distinct linguistic, epistemological and belief systems. Indigenous communities frequently share numerous characteristics with other marginalized societal segments, including insufficient political representation and engagement, economic disenfranchisement and impoverishment, limited access to social services and systemic discrimination. Furthermore, there exists a demographic challenge within the community, which often contributes to the neglect of their health and the fulfilment of fundamental necessities, such as adequate clothing and nutritious sustenance for the entire family. In Malaysia, these Indigenous populations are not forsaken and are instead administered by the Department of Orang Asli Development - Jabatan Kemajuan Orang Asli (JAKOA). Among the initiatives to empower this community is by encouraging them to form cooperative which will lead to socio-economic development. This paper highlights achievement by Koperasi Orang Asli Lata Kinjang Berhad (KOALKB), a cooperative established in July 2021 that began operating Taman Eko Rimba Lata Kinjang (TERLK), Tapah, Perak, Malaysia in July 2022. This research endeavour aims to elucidate the mechanisms through which KOALKB has emerged as one of the preeminent cooperatives representing the Orang Asli community in Malaysia. Using a case study method, this paper highlights TERLK, covering its eco-tourism business model. Furthermore, it addresses KOALKB's commitment to human capital development, its challenges and future plans for the sustainability of this Orang Asli cooperative. Ultimately, this paper will provide lessons that could be learned by other cooperatives especially the indigenous community.

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