Nestlé Malaysia has deepened its collaboration with the Global Peace Foundation to improve access to safe water among Orang Asli communities.
Their ongoing “Safe Water, Safe Communities” programme recently took a significant step forward with the construction of a dam in Kampung Lumut, Lenggeng, Negeri Sembilan. This initiative aims to provide the local villagers with enhanced access to clean and safe water.
Access to clean water is a basic human right and vital for building healthier, more resilient communities. Since its launch in 2018, the programme has supported over 1,000 Orang Asli families nationwide, delivering essential infrastructure including water filtration systems, solar-powered pumps, gravity-fed water systems and washrooms.
To complement these facilities, Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WaSH) training has been provided to encourage good hygiene practices and improve overall community health.
The latest phase of the programme is centred on Kampung Lumut, where a new dam and upgraded gravity-fed water system are being constructed. The project also includes new piping, water tanks and distribution lines throughout the village, ensuring a more reliable and consistent water supply.
In addition to improved access to clean water for drinking, cooking, farming and hygiene, villagers will be trained to operate and maintain the infrastructure. This hands-on approach is designed to build a sense of ownership within the community and support long-term self-sufficiency.
Juan Aranols, CEO of Nestlé Malaysia, emphasised the partnership’s impact: “These efforts reflect Nestlé’s broader water stewardship agenda aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. We are inspired by our collaboration with Global Peace Foundation to provide safe water access, build sanitation infrastructure, and raise hygiene awareness across Orang Asli communities. Building this dam today creates a lasting symbol of our shared commitment to empower these communities and improve their living conditions.” He also highlighted the involvement of many Nestlé employees volunteering through the Nestlé Sayang Komuniti platform.
Dr Teh Su Thye, CEO of Global Peace Foundation Malaysia, added, “The dam at Kampung Lumut is a lifeline that supports health, livelihoods, and dignity for the Orang Asli community. By combining Nestlé’s commitment, our expertise, and the villagers’ participation, we have created a sustainable solution that can be built upon for years to come.”
Ukai bin Badak, Village Head of Kampung Lumut, expressed gratitude for the project: “For years, we depended on an old system and a damaged dam, making clean water scarce and affecting our families’ health. This new system promises a reliable clean water source for our homes, and we are truly grateful to Nestlé and Global Peace Foundation Malaysia for restoring such an essential part of our community.”
With climate change placing increasing pressure on water resources, Nestlé Malaysia is working alongside government bodies, non-governmental organisations and local communities to highlight how partnerships can deliver meaningful impact.
