In a remote corner near the lush rainforest of Taman Negara, where electricity flickers and clean water is a luxury, two communities opened their doors and hearts to a group of researchers—not just to give, but to receive hope.

Over two meaningful days (12–13 July 2025),our  team—comprising researchers, medical professionals, and volunteers—journeyed into Kampung Bengoi (an Orang Asli village) and Kampung Melayu Ulu Sat. While the primary purpose was to collect samples and data for ongoing research in collaboration with the Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM), the heart of our mission extended far beyond academic pursuit – blending scientific inquiry with service to underserved populations.

Once laboratory analyses are completed, our team will return to both villages to deliver individual health reports and arrange follow-ups for those who require further care. This is more than just a research project—it’s a long-term commitment to improving health literacy and access in these rural communities.

“Beyond the academic and scientific goals, I believe such activities serve a more profound purpose. While many of us enjoy the conveniences of city life—modern infrastructure, access to healthcare, and food security—it is crucial to remember that there are communities left behind by the mainstream. Many families we met during this programme struggle to earn even RM30 a day. Their access to electricity, clean water, and basic medical care is either limited or nonexistent. For some, even one meal a day without rice is a harsh reality. This is why, throughout my academic journey, I have remained committed to engaging with vulnerable and marginalised populations. It is both a personal mission and a professional responsibility—to ensure our research and resources serve those who need them most,” said Prof Dr Hoh Boon-Peng, FRSB, Division of Applied Biomedical Science and Biotechnology, School of Health Sciences, IMU and the Project Leader on the study of genomics and health of the indigenous populations.

We were humbled by the warm reception and overwhelming response from the residents of Kampung Bengoi and Kampung Ulu Sat. The entire project team would like to express our deepest appreciation to the many faculty members, non-academic staff, and students from IMU who contributed generously. Their donations of clothes, food, stationery, household goods, and more made a tangible difference—and their compassion turned this event into something truly impactful.

We are already planning our next visit to another Orang Asli settlement in the Taman Negara area, tentatively scheduled for September 2025. We welcome any colleagues or students who are interested in joining this initiative to reach out directly.

Together, we can continue bridging the gap between academia and meaningful societal impact.