About us
Native Allies was born
from a simple, unwavering desire to see Malaysia made whole.
Our roots lie in the co-creation of community-based ventures with indigenous communities through our sister social enterprise, Native Discovery. Years of navigating and facilitating intercultural relationships have convinced us that there is no Malaysia without the Orang Asli, and that allyship is urgently needed in a nation as beautifully diverse as ours.
Our Purpose
We are convinced that Malaysia’s full potential will only be realised when everyone has an equitable chance to thrive and contribute to nation-building – and that must include the Orang Asli. As part of the 99.4% of Malaysians that are non-indigenous, we have both the privilege and responsibility to amplify Orang Asli voices in their fight for a self-determined future.
We envision a society where allyship is the norm. Our purpose is to stand with the Orang Asli as allies, while empowering fellow non-indigenous Malaysians to join us in this commitment.
Our Values
Indigenous Leadership
The Orang Asli must lead the way in shaping their own future. Our role is to stand alongside, never head – ensuring that they have a seat at the tables that matter.
Urgency of Allyship
Indigenous allyship cannot wait. It is a shared responsibility, and every one has within them the power to make a difference.
Equity and Inclusivity
Malaysia is for all who calls her home. We will not stop working against systemic barriers that prevent Malaysians from thriving on their own terms.
Team
Daniel Teoh
President
Daniel is the founder of Native Discovery and has been working in the social impact sector since completing university after a chance encounter with the Orang Asli set him on a different life path than planned.
Hanim Binti Apeng
Vice-President
Hanim is a self-made female entrepreneur who believes in the power of art and of the preservation of Orang Asli culture by passing knowledge on to Orang Asli youths.
Emily Wong
Secretary
Emily’s involvement with the Orang Asli began when she experienced an ‘early-onset’ midlife crisis whilst toiling in corporate upon graduation. She enjoys thinking deeply about life and being outside in her free time.
Ronnie Bin Bahari
Vice-Secretary
Ronnie is a proud Semai hailing from Kampung Sahom, Perak. He is a photographer by trade, and a passionate cultural activist and musician.
Farrah Darma
Treasurer
Farrah leads Native Allies’ capacity building initiatives, with a special focus on Fellowships. Also the Programme Manager at Native Discovery, she is on a daring mission to whip up meaningful opportunities and sustainable support systems – all to elevate indigenous leaders across Malaysia to rise, shine, and maybe even take over the world (a community at a time).