ISKANDAR PUTERI, Sept 6 — Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said the talent of Orang Asli youths in sports must continue to be identified and developed so that more of them can compete at higher levels, including SUKMA and beyond.
Zahid made the remarks after attending the closing ceremony of the 2026 National Orang Asli Sports Carnival (KSOA) at EduCity Sports Complex here on Sunday. He said he was with nearly 600 athletes from 18 tribes and was encouraged by their spirit and ability.
“We already have many Orang Asli youths who have succeeded in stepping onto a bigger stage, and some have even represented the country in sports. This proves the talent is there. Our task is to unearth it, polish it and make sure the right opportunities reach them,” he posted.
He added that KSOA should serve as a platform to discover new talent. “If they are ready for SUKMA, we take them. If they have the potential to go further, we open the way. We must never let great talent stop simply because the opportunity did not reach them.”
The three-day carnival ran from 4 to 6 September at the EduCity Sports Complex. Johor Menteri Besar Datuk Onn Hafiz Ghazi also attended the closing.
Speaking at the same event, Zahid highlighted broader progress for the community. He said more than 600 Orang Asli students are now studying at universities and colleges nationwide, up from an initial target of 200 when the Department of Orang Asli Development (JAKOA) came under his ministry four years ago. The figure rose to over 300 in the first year and 400 in the second.
He also noted TVET programmes, including 135 Orang Asli students at the Paya Bungor Training Centre in Maran, Pahang, and praised Johor’s allocation of RM600,000 to 60 Orang Asli villages.
Zahid congratulated all participating athletes and urged them to keep aiming high, saying that with proper opportunities and guidance more Orang Asli youths can bring honour to the country.
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