Sustainable Farming with SIROM: Nurturing Orang Asli Communities in Bentong

Beneath the lush green canopy of Kg Sg. Lebak in Bentong, Pahang, a groundbreaking initiative is taking root to uplift the Orang Asli community. Orchestrated by Soroptimist International Region of Malaysia (SIROM) and generously supported by HEINEKEN Cares and Sokong, this project is all about fostering self-reliance through the innovative practice of aquaponics farming.

Aquaponics, a unique farming approach, combines fish rearing with vegetable cultivation in an integrated system. Fish waste is converted into valuable nitrates and nitrites through a bio-filtration process, fostering the growth of pesticide-free vegetables. The project includes training sessions covering fish rearing techniques from fingerlings to harvest and vegetable growing techniques from seedling to harvest.

Joanne Yeoh, Project Lead and Soroptimist International South East Asia Pacific President-Elect, emphasizes the community-centric nature of the initiative: "This project aims to empower the Orang Asli community in Kg Sg. Lebak at Bentong, Pahang. We would like to thank HEINEKEN Cares and Sokong for their support and funding. The purpose of this project is to train participants from the Orang Asli community on aquaponics farming. We hope such collaboration between organisers and the public will showcase how a caring society could come together as one to help the Orang Asli community to break away from the vicious circle of poverty. We hope many more entities will embrace this sustainability project and donate towards HEINEKEN Cares 2023."

The SIROM initiative goes beyond immediate food security improvements. It embraces a holistic approach, including vermicomposting to supplement fish feed and reduce costs. By actively involving the Orang Asli community in the entire process, from learning the intricacies of aquaponics to cultivating their crops, SIROM aims to instill a sense of ownership and sustainable farming practices.

This impactful project under the HEINEKEN Cares Programme 2023 aligns with the mission to showcase the power of a caring society uniting for positive change. As part of the festive season's spirit of giving, your support is crucial. HEINEKEN Cares is committed to a 4:1 matching ratio, transforming every RM10 donation into RM50. Your contribution, multiplied fivefold, will significantly impact the lives of the Orang Asli community in Kg Sg. Lebak.

Contribute to this transformative initiative and support the Orang Asli community's journey towards sustainable livelihoods. Together, let's cultivate sustainable futures and spread the joy of giving this festive season – Donate Now!