The Institute for Democracy and Economic Affairs (IDEAS) said at present, Orang Asli students rely on support from government agencies, especially for financial aid.

But the lack of engagement with elected representatives meant it limited the “potential for responsive, locally-driven education solutions”, it said in a report titled “Actors on the ground: Mapping Orang Asli education stakeholders”, which was launched today.

“MPs play a crucial role in advancing educational opportunities for the Orang Asli community by advocating for policies.”

IDEAS went on to cite how Cameron Highlands MP, Ramli Nor, the first Orang Asli to be elected to the lower house, had advocated for a quota for Orang Asli students in residential boarding schools and Mara Junior Science College, ensuring better access to quality education.

Similarly, in 2017, Bera MP Ismail Sabri Yaakob, the then rural and regional development minister, had pushed for the construction of more Pusat Intelek Pelajar Orang Asli in every zone to improve access to education for the Orang Asli.

“These efforts demonstrate the role MPs can play in improving education outcomes for the Orang Asli community.”

IDEAS said MPs in areas with a significant number of Orang Asli constituents should take on a proactive role in addressing the educational challenges.

One of the initiatives it mooted is the establishment of a cross-sector mechanism between the education ministry, Orang Asli development department and NGOs to streamline approvals and update implementation guidelines under a revised Orang Asli Act.

It added that by working together with community leaders, MPs could serve as accountability champions in high-density constituencies.