MELAKA: A Melaka-born Orang Asli doctor, who is heading clinical research in the United States, is an example of how those from the community can excel given the right support and opportunities, says Datuk Seri Ab Rauf Yusoh.
In his winding-up speech during the state legislative assembly yesterday, the Melaka Chief Minister said Dr Saiful Anuar, hailing from Kampung Orang Asli Lubuk Bandung, brought pride to both the state and the nation through his global achievements.
Ab Rauf said the state government provides special education assistance and scholarships to Orang Asli students who excelled in the 2025 Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia examination.
He noted that it was also heartening that 19 Orang Asli youths from the state are currently pursuing studies at institutions of higher learning.
“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 Muhammad Loqman Afandy, 12, who died after falling into a drain in Taman Ayer Keroh Heights during a heavy downpour on Monday.
Ab Rauf also assured that the Strait of Malacca Waterfront Economic Zone (SM-WEZ) development along the Pantai Puteri shoreline would be implemented in a balanced manner without sidelining environmental and tourism concerns.
He said coastal erosion and tourism activities in the area had been taken into account during the project’s planning.
