“Whoever is elected, don’t forget us Orang Asli here.” This is what Ayu Enn, an Orang Asli village chief, wanted to convey to the new Johor state administration that will be formed after the state election.

Ayu, 52, the Tok Batin of the Orang Asli village of Kampung Sentosa, Lenga, Pagoh, said his community merely wanted their rights, especially customary land rights, to be preserved.

Voicing the hopes of his fellow villagers...