The jist of the issue

The Penans have long depended on the jungles of Sarawak for many aspects of their lives. Now, with intense logging activities (of which much is illegal) that decimate the lands of Sarawak, the Penans have lost much of their hunting grounds and living spaces. The Sarawakian government, which is the very institution that could curb illegal deforestation, has instead turned a blind eye. Officials with links to certain logging multinationals profit from corruption.

Previously, the Sarawakian government has not given their plight much attention. But with the advent of awareness among people, there is a greater realisation among society that the Penans are in dire straits. On the 17th of September, the Sarawakian government has even come to a consencus with the Penans. Among them, the government promised to:

• Build clinics, kindergartens and schools for clusters of Penan settlements with 4 to 5 villages
• Provide electrical and water supply to Penan settlements
• Get the National Registration Department speed up issuance of birth certificates and MyKads to Penans
  

More can still be done to adress the issue of harassment, rape and murder cases committed against Penan people by loggign workers. Yet, this shows that awareness does indeed have influence over the situation! If we continue to advocate for this issue, more and more governmental intiatives will be taken to improve the lives of the Penan people.