Why Malaysia’s Indigenous heritage matters more than ever

Festival Irama Asli & Asal 2025 concluded its second annual edition recently with a strong call to recognise Malaysia’s Indigenous heritage as a foundational pillar of the nation’s cultural identity, history and environmental stewardship.

Organised from 12 to 14 December at Berjaya Times Square, the three-day festival brought together the Orang Asli of the peninsula and the Orang Asal of Sabah and Sarawak in a shared celebration of music, dance, crafts, traditional knowledge and Indigenous cuisine.

The festival was organised by the Indigenous Culture and Arts Foundation (YKOA) as part of its ongoing commitment to preserving and empowering indigenous communities.

Prominent social activist Lee Lam Thye served as the guest of honour, officiating at the opening ceremony. He underlined the significance of the festival as both a cultural showcase and a platform to honour the history, resilience and living legacy of Malaysia’s Indigenous communities.

“We are not gathered merely to witness performances of music and dance. We are also here to honour the history, resilience and spirit of the Orang Asli and Orang Asal – communities that existed long before the formation of modern Malaysia,” noted Lee, a former MP.

Lee highlighted that while Malaysia is renowned for its cultural diversity, the contributions of Indigenous communities remain a central yet often underappreciated foundation of the nation’s identity.

“The languages, craftsmanship, music, dances and values rooted in harmony with nature are priceless national treasures,” he said.

“This heritage must not only be displayed – it must be lived, respected and strengthened for future generations.”

Lee also drew attention to the role of Indigenous communities as longstanding custodians of the natural environment. He noted that their traditional knowledge offers valuable lessons in ecological sustainability. “In a world facing climate change and environmental crises, the Indigenous wisdom of living in balance with nature” is a lesson for all of us.  

Echoing this message of unity, Dr Andre Ratos, the chairman of YKOA, said the festival represents a collective commitment to recognising Indigenous communities as integral to the Malaysian story. “This festival unites the Orang Asli of Peninsular Malaysia and the Orang Asal of Sabah and Sarawak – not as separate communities, but as two pillars of one shared heritage.”

He added that Irama Asli dan Asal continues the legacy of his late father, Antony Ratos, who worked closely with Indigenous leaders and communities to promote dignity, inclusion and social welfare.

Festival highlights included traditional musical performances incorporating Indigenous instruments, cultural dances from Sabah and Sarawak, interactive demonstrations of traditional crafts, Indigenous games and a curated ethnic food showcase featuring regional specialties.

Artisans and performers worked directly with visitors to share the cultural meaning behind their crafts and practices.

Lee expressed appreciation to the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture for its continued support of cultural preservation initiatives, noting that sustained institutional backing is vital for safeguarding indigenous heritage.

YKOA reaffirmed its commitment to working in partnership with Indigenous leaders, youth, artisans and community organisations to ensure that Indigenous languages, arts and knowledge systems are not only preserved but celebrated as a living and evolving part of Malaysia’s national identity.

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