Autonomy Re-constituted: Social and Gendered Implications of Dam Resettlement on the Orang Asli of Peninsular Malaysia

Abstract

This article focuses on the social and gendered consequences of involuntary resettlement of Orang Asli displaced by dam projects in Malaysia, namely the Temenggor Dam in Upper Perak and the Sungai Selangor Dam in Kuala Kubu Bahru. It draws on case studies of resettlement programs of the Jahai in the Air Banun regroupment scheme in Gerik and the Temuan in Kampong (Kg.) (hamlet or village) Gerachi and Kg. Peretak in Kuala Kubu Bahru. Dam resettlements are seen to have serious implications for the displaced Orang Asli communities. That is to say, the Orang Asli experience alienation of their land and natural resources to the state and powerful economic interests, with farreaching implications for economic, political and social autonomy. At the same time, pre-existing normative frameworks on Orang Asli access and control over land and other resources often get transformed in such a manner that, I argue, is likely to lead to a greater loss of access and rights to land for women than for men. Indeed, the issues raised by dam relocation programs cannot be fully understood without a concern for gender and power relations.