Homestay business in Pos Hau uplifts the livelihoods of Orang Asli residents

The efforts of the Orang Asli from the Temiar tribe in Kampung Redip, Pos Hau to promote their culture while generating income and improving their lives are finally bearing fruit as outsiders start to visit the village to seek a unique recreational experience. The village’s homestay manager, Razali Ayeh, expressed his gratitude for the local tourists who have been coming to his village for the past 10 years. He mentioned that tourists can choose from various overnight packages that include outdoor activities.

Visitors to Kampung Redip will have the opportunity to immerse themselves in the daily activities, customs, arts, and culture of the Orang Asli. They can experience unique activities such as cooking rice in bamboo sticks, participating in the bersewang ritual to heal diseases caused by malicious spirits, using blowpipes, and setting traps to catch small animals in the forest. The packages offered by the village are for three days and two nights at a rate of RM360 per visitor, which includes accommodation and a list of recreational activities.

Razali explained that the villagers worked together in a ‘gotong-royong’ style to build 12 homestay units using bamboo sticks, rattans, and the leaves of Bertam palm. This homestay business has not only helped in improving the livelihoods of the villagers by generating income but also allows them to sell their agricultural produce and crafts to tourists. Additionally, the business enables the villagers to learn more about the outside world by interacting with the visitors.

Galas assemblyman Mohd Syahbuddin Hashim emphasized the importance of effective marketing strategies to further promote Kampung Redip as one of the top-rated tourist destinations in the district. He mentioned that discussions were held with the village chief and the Orang Asli Village Development and Safety Committee (JPKKOA) chairman of Pos Hau to plan upgrading works for eight homestay units that are in disrepair and in need of immediate maintenance.

In conclusion, the efforts of the Orang Asli from the Temiar tribe in Kampung Redip, Pos Hau to promote their culture while generating income through tourism have been successful. The village’s unique offerings and immersive cultural experiences have attracted local tourists, providing a source of income for the villagers and helping to improve their livelihoods. With effective marketing strategies and ongoing maintenance of the homestay units, Kampung Redip has the potential to become a top-rated tourist destination in the district.