MELAKA: A Melaka-born Orang Asli doctor, who now leads clinical research in the United States, was held up as an example of how the community can excel when given the right support and opportunities.
During the last day of state assembly proceedings, Melaka Chief Minister Datuk Seri Ab Rauf Yusoh said the success of Dr Saiful Anuar from Kampung Orang Asli Lubuk Bandung here was a proud moment for the state.
"Children from the Orang Asli community are not only full of potential, but have also proven their excellence on the world stage.
"Look at the success of Dr Saiful Anuar, who is now leading clinical research in the United States,” he said in his winding-up speech during the assembly, which adjourned sine die on Wednesday (April 29).
The assembly then gave a standing ovation to Dr Saiful Anuar.
Ab Rauf also said the state government would provide special education assistance and scholarships to Orang Asli students who excelled in the 2025 Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia (SPM) examinations.
He added that it was encouraging that 19 Orang Asli youths from the state were currently pursuing studies at institutions of higher learning.
Ab Rauf said the state government believed that with equal opportunities and support for all communities, more success stories would emerge.
"When they succeed, Melaka will continue to chart a more glorious future,” he said.
The assembly also observed a minute’s silence and recited prayers for 12-year-old Muhammad Loqman Afandy, who died after falling into a drain in Taman Ayer Keroh Heights during heavy rain on Monday (April 27).
On a separate matter, Ab Rauf assured the assembly that the Straits of Malacca Waterfront Economic Zone (SM-WEZ) development around Pantai Puteri shoreline would be implemented in a balanced manner without sidelining environmental and tourism concerns.
He said the state government had taken into account coastal erosion and tourism activities in the area as part of its planning.
"A buffer zone of about 300m from the existing shoreline has been set to preserve the marine ecosystem.
“This is also to ensure tourism and recreational activities are not affected, while maintaining access routes for local fishermen along the waterway,” he added.
