Sime Darby Auto ConneXion (SDAC) recently reiterated its commitment to uplift Orang Asli communities through a renewed partnership with Global Peace Foundation (GPF) Malaysia. This collaboration aims to support GPF’s OA-Eco Farm program, focusing on four Orang Asli Villages in Kuala Rompin, Pahang.
The OA-Eco Farm program is designed to foster self-sufficiency and sustainable income among Orang Asli families through food farming initiatives. It provides comprehensive training, coaching, and subsidies, including essential tools and seedlings.
With a generous donation of US$10,000 (RM45,745) from Ford Motor Company Fund, the philanthropic arm of Ford Motor Company, 22 SDAC staff volunteers joined hands with the GPF team to visit the villages on March 9. They brought donations of seedlings, farming equipment, kitchen tools, and an abundance of enthusiasm. The volunteers actively engaged with the Orang Asli community, assisting in the installation of solar-powered equipment for fencing and aiding in land cultivation activities.
Food farming in Orang Asli communities faces various challenges, including limited resources for purchasing seeds, seedlings, and farming tools, as well as environmental obstacles such as droughts and infertile soil. Therefore, training in sustainable farming techniques is crucial for their success, given their traditional hunter-gatherer lifestyle.
Recognized for its commitment to community support and resilience-building, GPF launched the OA-Eco Farm program to address these challenges. The initiative not only improves the livelihoods of the Orang Asli but also promotes sustainable practices and environmental conservation.
The program embraces a holistic farming approach known as Syntropic Farming, which revitalizes ecosystems and regenerates soil, ensuring long-term food security and sustainability. Additionally, GPF has established an online marketplace called Kebun Amai on its website, allowing Orang Asli farmers to sell fresh produce and artisanal products, thereby increasing their income.
Since its inception, GPF has partnered with over 70 villages, providing access to clean water, energy, sustainable livelihoods, and education.
For more information on Global Peace Foundation and how to contribute to the Orang Asli community, visit https://globalpeace.org.my/. To learn more about SDAC and Ford, follow Ford Malaysia on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and YouTube, or visit www.sdacford.com.my. 
