Former Orang Asli development department (Jakoa) director-general Ajis Sitin said this was important to prevent a repeat of a recent incident, which saw an Oraco-appointed firm entering a replanting project without informing the Tok Batin (village chief).

“To us, this is a serious and very impolite matter. The Tok Batin or village chief should have been notified first,” he said in a statement.

The projects were started by Felcra Bhd and the Rubber Industry Smallholders Development Authority (Risda) to help develop land in Orang Asli settlements, but the management of these projects were handed over to the state in February.

“To prevent a repeat of this incident, I suggest that Oraco hold transparent engagements when taking over a commercial replanting project. The Orang Asli have been depending on these farms for 20 years now.

“They are capable of developing the farms on their own. Oraco should just administer, collect what is needed and give advice whenever necessary.

“In this matter, Oraco needs to keep an open mind and be ready to accept the views of the Orang Asli. Respect their feelings and listen to them,” said Ajis.

He added that Pahang Jakoa director Johari Alwi should not face disciplinary action for resigning from the Oraco board of directors, as he did so out of a sense of responsibility over the recent incident.

Ajis said Johari’s actions should not be misinterpreted as he was simply someone who was very committed to championing the Orang Asli cause.

Johari had previously criticised the “weak implementation” of the replanting project for the Orang Asli after it was taken over by Oraco.

He also claimed that several Orang Asli villagers in Pahang were barred from entering a plantation to collect oil palm fruits after the state took over management of the projects.

Yesterday, Pahang state secretary Zulkifli Yaacob accused Johari of making “seditious” remarks on the issue, saying it left a negative impression of the state government and was also in breach of civil service regulations.