23/11/2025

ON SUNDAY November 23, 2025 theSunday Special V

Tercicir di dalam pendidikan … Art as a way to express, preserve and empower.

Voice of the people Using art as the voice of his people, Saluji’s works are not simply accompanying illustrations for children’s stories. They go further than that, with all the hidden mes sages and issues faced by the indigenous community of this country. All of these emotions, perspectives, experiences and hopes to preserve heritage for the future have become the source of inspiration for him to create his artworks. “What I’m doing now is intended to raise awareness within my community about the importance of education and the long-term need to defend our rights. Through the books I create, I want to encourage the Orang Asli to think more RSHQO\ DQG KDYH WKH FRQ¿GHQFH WR WDNH GL̆ HUHQW VWHSV LQ OLIH “I also hope my art can inspire them to become self-reliant and courageous in seeking out opportunities to improve their OLYHV 0\ KRSH LV WKDW WKLV H̆ RUW ZLOO KDYH a positive impact on future generations,” he said. Despite the significant progress we have made as a nation, according to Saluji, some people still hold negative percep tions about the Orang Asli community. “Many people think the Orang Asli are useless, lazy or dirty. These views are simply not true. We are just like anyone else. We have abilities, potential and weaknesses too.” Art, once seen as a luxury or an after thought, proves through Saluji’s journey to be a powerful tool for identity, voice and change. From the heart of the hinterland to the pages of children’s books, his work reminds us that art truly belongs to everyone and its impact reaches far beyond what meets the eye.

What I’m doing now is intended to raise awareness within my community about the importance of education and the need to defend our rights.”

Pathway … His artworks draw inspiration from the natural environment and everyday life in the Orang Asli community.

Teardrop … Through his illustrations, Saluji gives voice to issues affecting his people and their land.

Saluji started drawing when he was just six.