Forest significant and conservation among the Semaq Beri tribe of orang asli in Terengganu State, Malaysia

The Orang Asli are an indigenous ethnic group found in peninsular

Malaysia. It is estimated that more than 60% of them reside within outskirt and rural

areas. These types of settlement areas are commonly synonymous with forest

environments. The Semaq Beri tribe in Terengganu state are one of such

aforementioned communities living in such environments. Their lives are largely

dependent on the forests as a source of sustenance and livelihood. In other words, their

lives are closely linked with forests or the biodiversity associated to it. Objective: A

study had been conducted to fathom the thoughts of the Semaq Beri tribe regarding the

forests based on the following questions; (i) What is the status of the forest and what

are their perspectives on it, (ii) How significant are the forests in the daily lives of

community members, and (iii) What is the attitude towards ensuring the sustainability

of the forest. The study data were gathered through observation techniques,

participation observation as well as interviews. Results: The study results showed that

the Semaq Beri tribe possess their own distinctive thoughts on the forest environment

and life. Among others, the forest or biodiversity is believed to be a gift from the

supernatural powers and is alive, similar to humans. The forests were created by the

supernatural powers for the benefit and harmony of human life, namely to provide

necessities such as sustenance, livelihood, medicine as well as other various resources.

Conclusion: Based on this status, the forest is often likened similar to a ‘bank’, an

institution were individuals store their wealth, and which this wealth can be withdrawn

whenever necessary. Based on such a perception also leads to the Semaq Beri tribe’s

approach in ways of exploiting, conserving and safeguarding the sustainability of the

forest so that its benefits will not only be enjoyed by the current generation, but also for

generations to come.