Established as a national network of Indigenous Peoples
JOAS is a network of 120 Indigenous Peoples (Orang Asal) organizations in Malaysia, supported by Indigenous and related NGOs. Comprising 4 million people from 80 ethno-linguistic groups, the Orang Asal face marginalization due to the lack of recognition of their rights under national and international laws.
Ongoing programs
Strengthening Cultural Integrity and Institutional Support for Indigenous Women and Girls
Funded by: International Indigenous Women's Forum (FIMI)
Indigenous Navigator
The Indigenous Navigator project by Jaringan Orang Asal SeMalaysia (JOAS) serves as a vital initiative to empower Indigenous communities across Malaysia in reclaiming their rights and preserving their heritage. By providing tools and methodologies for data collection, the project enables communities to document their social, economic, and cultural conditions while assessing the implementation of international human rights standards. This grassroots-driven approach ensures that Indigenous voices are amplified in policymaking, bridging gaps between local realities and national or global agendas. Through the Indigenous Navigator, JOAS strengthens advocacy efforts, fosters sustainable development, and builds resilience among Indigenous peoples to face modern challenges while safeguarding their traditions and lands.
Community outreach at Kampung Sungai Eloi, Pitas
Jaringan Orang Asal SeMalaysia (JOAS) and its People's Organization in Kampung Sungai Eloi are proud to collaborate with the Impact Travel Group (ITG), which comprises Camp Borneo, Camps International, and Raleigh International, as the latter makes its momentous return to Borneo. This initiative begins with a transformative community outreach program in Kampung Sungai Eloi, Pitas, where volunteers will work alongside the local community to build a boat, jetty, and resource center. These developments aim to enhance connectivity, support sustainable livelihoods, and empower the Indigenous community through improved resources and infrastructure.
SGP-IN Project Report Writing Meeting and Training
A total of 5 Indigenous Peoples from the community were involved in this meeting and training, namely 2 people from Kampung Sayap, Kota Belud, and 3 people from Kampung Malinsau, Ranau.
The purpose of this meeting is to provide understanding and improve the ability of the community in writing narrative reports, and financial management of an activity in a project. This training was delivered by the Indigenous Navigator Project Coordinator who is also the Secretary General of JOAS, Hilda Pius Modilo.
Tohmle Statement
This statement was developed at the 4th Indigenous Knowledge and Peoples of Asia (IKPA) Conference on Indigenous Peoples’ Rights, Biodiversity, and Climate Change, held from October 1-4, 2024, in Pokhara, Nepal
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Past programs
Advocating for Indigenous Rights
Defend and fight for the rights of Indigenous Peoples in Malaysia.
Indigenous Network Support
Strengthen relationships and cooperation between Indigenous Peoples throughout Malaysia.
Indigenous Unity Collaboration
Strengthen relationships and cooperation between Indigenous Peoples throughout Malaysia.
Fostering Member Empowerment
Encourage the development of knowledge, skills and self advancement of JOAS members.
Building Collaborative Partnerships
Strengthen relationships with other organizations and the public.
Enhancing Indigenous Development
Increase skills and awareness of Indigenous development.