KOTA KINABALU: The European Union (EU) has teamed up with Partners of Community Organisation in Sabah (PACOS Trust) to promote socioeconomic and cultural rights among rural indigenous people in Sabah.

EU Delegation to Malaysia First Counsellor Joanna Wasiewska said the collaboration is through the "Empowering Indigenous Communities: Strengthening Capacities, Networks, Advocacy, and Cultural Resilience for the Realisation of their Rights" project.

"The EU has been actively supporting indigenous peoples globally since the late 1990s. We have committed ourselves to maintain indigenous peoples as a focus of attention given their disadvantage in many societies. We are proud to extend our support to PACOS Trust for the next three years (2024-2026).

"PACOS Trust has successfully implemented prior initiatives, also funded by the EU, to combat child marriage and enhance women's political leadership," she said when announcing the collaboration at PACOS Trust Office courtyard in Kg Kivatu, Penampang during the recent Gresunali Bazaar 2024.

She said the new grant of 610,000 euros would allow PACOS Trust to continue enabling environments in Sabah in order to promote the rights of indigenous people including women and children.

PACOS Trust executive director Anne Lasimbang said the support from the EU would undoubtedly pave the way for meaningful contributions to nation-building.

"Their (the indigenous people's) deep connection with the environment, rich culture, and communal wisdom will serve as invaluable assets in fostering sustainable development and preserving cultural heritage."

PACOS Trust's focus is on empowering Sabah indigenous people civil society organisations to participate more actively in decision-making processes.

"Activities include supporting independent media, combating misinformation, raising awareness to end child marriage, and highlighting the roles of indigenous women as community leaders and environmental stewards.

"In alignment with the International Decade of Indigenous Languages (2022-2032), campaigns, workshops, and learning materials will be developed in local languages to preserve indigenous cultures," Anne said.

https://www.nst.com.my/news/nation/2024/04/1044149/eu-grant-help-sabah-rural-indigenous-people