By Sabrina Smith
NEGERI SEMBILAN — International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples was celebrated at the Negeri district level on August 20. Themed Bersatu Iman Berkembang, it was held at Chapel Kristus Cahaya, Kg Sebir.
Archbishop Julian Leow was the main celebrant, while the Ecclesiastical Assistant for Orang Asli, Fr Paulino Miranda, gave the homily. Also concelebrating were the priests of the district, Fr Xavier Andrew, Fr Christopher Soosaipillai, Fr Albet Arokiasamy, Fr Jestus Pereira, Fr Kenneth Gopal OCD, Fr Philip Tay OCD, Fr Nicholas Hoh OCD, and Fr George Ho OCD.
The event started with the welcoming dance by the communities there. As an opening gambit to officiate the programme, the archbishop and priests were invited to blow the sumpit (blowpipe) and burst the balloon.
A booth was set up to highlight the history and background of the indigenous people in the district.
Mass began at 6.00pm, followed by a fellowship serving exotic meats like monkey, monitor lizard, snake, squirrel, and many others, cooked by the community. While the community indulged in the unique dishes, there were lucky draws and karaoke sessions featuring ‘Orang Asal’ songs.
It was a fruitful and spirit-filled day. It was a great experience for the first-timers to witness how the Orang Asli live in Malaysia.
