Developing sustainable communities by empowering economic development for indigenous peoples in Tasik Chini Biosphere Reserve

Abstract

Sustainable development goals (SDGs) include environmental protection, social welfare and economic equality. One of the crucial agent of change to achieve the mission of SDGs is indigenous peoples. Indigenous peoples are a unique society, rich in their traditional knowledge, culture and practices which include valuable approach to sustainable development. However, indigenous peoples represent one of the poorest society and economic equality shows major differences compared to other communities. In Tasik Chini Biosphere Reserve, apart from education problems, poverty among indigenous peoples is also a major challenge due to lack of adequate access to social security system and economic resources. Therefore, this article discusses on indigenous peoples' perspectives on current economic activities in developing sustainable communities and challenges to sustain economic activities while preserving the natural resources in Tasik Chini Biosphere Reserve. This study utilized qualitative approach in data collection. The face-to-face interview with the nine indigenous peoples from Kampung Gumum (official settlement) and Kampung Melai that located nearby Tasik Chini was implemented. Then, the transcribed interview data was analysed through thematic analysis. The results illustrate indigenous peoples' perspectives on current economic activities in developing sustainable indigenous communities is through Tongkat ali and handicraft business. Meanwhile, the challenges to sustain economic activities while preserving the natural resources in Tasik Chini Biosphere Reserve highlighted several aspects including training, finance, market survey and resources. This paper suggests that stakeholders should implement a various approach including integrated commercial platform to effectively improve the economic development among indigenous people, specifically in Malaysia in order to achieving SDG on micro or local levels.