Indigenous peoples’ rights: The Asean paradox

Speaking up: An Orang Asli women’s collective, Apa Kata Wanita Orang Asli, standing up for their rights. Ideally, South-East Asia’s indigenous peoples should have the opportunity for high-level engagement within Asean, including with the bloc’s highest levels of the political leadership, say the writers. — RAJA FAISAL HISHAN/The Star

SOUTH-EAST Asia has not been at the forefront of promoting human rights. In the case of the rights of indigenous peoples, the region’s record is arguably even more concerning.

Among the member states of the Asean, only a few recognise indigenous peoples, let alone protect their rights. Indonesia, Laos, Thailand, and Vietnam are among those that fare the poorest in this aspect. For example, Indonesia, despite its third constitutional amendment, specifically under Article 18b-2 to recognise and respect traditional communities along with their traditional customary rights, is still doing a very objectionable job denying legal protections for its indigenous peoples.