Understanding the Indigenous Peoples of Peninsular Malaysia

Malaysia is a multi-ethnic, multicultural country with a rich history and diverse traditions, among which indigenous cultures form a significant part of its diversity.

When discussing the indigenous peoples of Malaysia, many often think of the Kadazan and Iban communities of East Malaysia, as these groups frequently appear in textbooks. However, indigenous communities are not limited to East Malaysia.

The Peninsular Malaysia also hosts numerous indigenous groups with deep-rooted histories and rich cultural traditions, forming an indispensable part of Malaysia's cultural mosaic.

Population data

According to official data from the Department of Orang Asli Development (Jabatan Kemajuan Orang Asli, as known as JAKOA), the indigenous peoples of Peninsular Malaysia are categorized into three main groups: the Negrito, the Senoi, and the Proto-Malay. Each group comprises six subgroups, making up a total of 18 indigenous communities, primarily inhabiting forests, mountainous regions, and coastal areas of the peninsula (JAKOA, 2022). As of 2023, the population of Peninsular Malaysia’s indigenous peoples is approximately 220,000, distributed across several states.

Population Distribution of Indigenous Groups in Peninsular Malaysia (2023)

State	Proto-Malay	Negrito	Senoi	Total Population
Johor	16,451	2	71	16,524
Kedah	13	290	28	331
Kelantan	89	2,143	16,668	18,900
Melaka	2,001	1	31	2,033
Negeri Sembilan	12,349	3	125	12,447
Pahang	42,887	1,265	36,468	80,620
Perak	653	2,796	58,140	61,589
Selangor	16,003	6	5,682	21,691
Terengganu	85	40	925	1,050

(Source: JAKOA, 2023)

Distribution and Overview of the Three Major Indigenous Ethnic Groups in Peninsular Malaysia

Negrito: One of the Oldest Indigenous Groups in Peninsular Malaysia

The Negrito people, one of the earliest indigenous group in the Malay Peninsula, are believed to have originated from Africa and began migrating to Southeast Asia about 25,000 years ago.

Their long migration led them to adopt a nomadic lifestyle, and they eventually settled in the northern regions of the peninsula, including Perak, Kelantan, and Kedah. The Negrito people are recognized by their distinct physical characteristics, such as dark skin, short stature, and frizzy or curly hair.

The Negrito community comprises six main subgroups: Kensiu, Jahai, Bateq, Mendriq, Lanoh, Kintaq

Senoi: The Largest Indigenous Group in Peninsular Malaysia

The Senoi are the largest indigenous group in Peninsular Malaysia classified as Mongoloid and believed to descend from the Hoabinhians and Neolithic agriculturalists.

Around 2000 BCE, they migrated from the north into the peninsula and primarily settled in central highland regions, especially in Pahang, Perak, and Selangor (Centre for Orang Asli Concerns. Compared to the Negrito, the Senoi are slightly taller, with lighter skin and wavy hair rather than curly hair.

The Senoi community consists of six main subgroups: Che Wong, Semoq Beri, Mah Meri, Semai, Temiar, Jah Hut

Proto-Malay: Coastal Residents Reflecting Cultural Integration

The Proto-Malay, the second-largest indigenous group in Peninsular Malaysia, migrated from Central Asia (Yunnan) via the Indochinese Peninsula around 2000 BCE. They are considered early ancestors of the modern Malay population.

The Proto-Malay established settlements in central and southern parts of the peninsula, particularly in Johor, Negeri Sembilan, and Pahang. Their culture has been significantly influenced by neighboring Malay communities, resulting in a strong resemblance to modern Malay culture.

Today, the Proto-Malay primarily engage in agriculture and fishing, with some working in urban areas or pursuing entrepreneurship.

The Proto-Malay community consists of six main subgroups: Jakun, Semelai, Orang Kuala, Orang Seletar, Orang Kanaq, Temuan.

Who are the Temuan People?

The Temuan people, belonging to the Proto-Malay group, are the second-largest indigenous ethnic group on the Malay Peninsula and serve as the central focus of this exhibition.

Also known as "Belandas" and "Orang Dusun Tua," the Temuan community is primarily found in Selangor, Negeri Sembilan, Pahang, and Johor. Physically, the Temuan people closely resemble Malays, characterized by straight hair and light brown skin. They are slightly shorter on average, with males standing at approximately 153 cm and females at 142 cm.

The Temuan people traditionally practice ancestor worship, a belief centered on honoring and remembering their forebears. In addition, they adhere to animism, believing that all things—animals, plants, rivers, graves, and forest spirits—possess a spiritual essence. However, with the passage of time, while some Temuan people have preserved elements of animistic traditions, others have converted to Islam or Christianity.