In order to improve the community’s access to safe and respectable hygiene facilities, British American Tobacco (Malaysia) Berhad (BAT Malaysia) recently handed over sanitation facilities to benefit 80 Orang Asli residents in 11 households in Kampung Orang Asli Sayong Pinang, Johor, in partnership with the Department of Orang Asli Development (JAKOA).
Speaking at the ceremony, Fairuz Helmi, Corporate and Regulatory Affairs Director at BAT Malaysia said, “access to proper sanitation facilities is fundamental to health, dignity and quality of life. Through this initiative, we hope to support the wellbeing of the Kampung Orang Asli Sayong Pinang community while contributing to broader efforts to improve living standards in communities we operate in.”
“This initiative forms part of our wider water stewardship journey. As the nation continues to prioritise inclusive rural development, we believe initiatives like this can complement government efforts by addressing critical, on-the-ground needs in partnership with local communities.”
As the state moves closer to its 2030 development targets, the Johor State Government has reiterated its commitment to making sure that Orang Asli communities are not left behind. There are now 60 Orang Asli villages spread among five major ethnic groupings in Johor.
Groups of up to 20 people relied on a single sanitation unit since the Kampung Orang Asli Sayong Pinang community had inadequate infrastructure, inaccessible septic tanks, and a restricted water supply before the sanitation facilities were built.
Guided by Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) and Alliance for Water Stewardship (AWS) standards, the new sanitation units are constructed with a plumbing system, water supply lines and septic tanks that now provide more reliable and dignified access to sanitation.
To support long-term sustainability, the facilities will be managed through a community-led model, where trained residents will oversee daily maintenance and coordinate technical support for major repairs. A local management committee has been established to ensure regular cleaning and upkeep.
“Through our site visits and consultations, we worked closely with the community to develop facilities that reflect the community’s needs and priorities. Access to proper sanitation facilities is often overlooked, and we are grateful for BAT Malaysia’s support in improving the daily lives of the Orang Asli,” said Tuan Faisal Bin Long, JAKOA Director for Johor.
BAT Malaysia remains committed to advancing its ESG priorities, with a continued focus on responsible water stewardship and community wellbeing. BAT Malaysia has been certified under the Alliance for Water Stewardship Standard since 2024, which guides how organisations manage water resources responsibly. “Moving forward, we will continue to work with partners and communities to deliver sustainable, long-term impact where it matters most,” Fairuz concluded.
