I REFER to the letter on the Orang Asli from Colin Nicholas of the Centre for Orang Asli Concerns ("Respect rights of Orang Asli" -- NST, Sept 24) and Adrian Lasimbang of the Jaringan Orang Asal Se Malaysia ("Orang Asli had a lot to do with that march" -- NST, Sept 25).

I wish to emphasise that undeniably the Department of Orang Asli Affairs (JHEOA) was established as the godfather of Orang Asli affairs since 1954. What has been reported ("Unlocking the door for the Orang Asli" -- NST, Sept 21) is the reality of social and physical development implemented by the JHEOA for the Orang Asli.

Though the land of the Orang Asli has been taken over by the government for the purpose of development, they have been given generous compensation, for example, in Kampung Bukit Lanjan, Linggiu, and Sepang. In fact, the Orang Asli who moved from Sepang now lead better lives with good environment and facilities. Besides, their village has been chosen as a model village of Orang Asli in Selangor.

The JHEOA has initiated physical development for the Orang Asli since the Seventh Malaysia Plan. Each agriculture project developed by the JHEOA depends on consensus from the villagers.

The JHEOA also gives RM500 a month to Orang Asli for agricultural development projects. However, they may increase their income by working at the plantation. Maybe, some people think that RM2,000 can be earned if they manage their own farm but they would still have to keep some of the money to pay for the plantations' maintenance and replanting in the future.
The JHEOA has always sought the collaboration of non-governmental organisations. We hope that the public will not be confused with any inaccurate statements made by other parties.

The JHEOA will ensure that the interest, well-being, prosperity and advancement of the Orang Asli in Penisular Malaysia are protected.