Indigenous People of Cameron Highlands : A Living Heritage

Most of us have heard or  know about the wonderful valleys of Cameron Highlands in Pahang. There are the famed meandering trunk roads, rest stops, waterfalls and of course tea plantations along the way to several towns in the district. Most of what we see are modern civilization and everyday  life. But underneath this is a very different world. The world of the indigenous natives of the forests. There is no certainty of their migratory records. Most probably they came from various tribes some 6-8,000 years ago from Myanmar, Cambodia or Thailand. Today they live in a diaspora of sorts. Most of the natives around Cameron Highlands are of the Semai tribe. They still have their native settlements as protected areas and are absorbed into modernity via various commercial activities such as tourism, handicraft trade and such. They still enjoy their care-free life and go about their way of doing things. Their settlements are now small communities  and have basic modern facilities, and  they are always happy to welcome visitors.  Needless to add, these friendly and simple natives are part of the unique heritage and culture of Cameron Highlands. So, the next time you are in the high valleys of Cameron Highlands ,besides the fresh air, fresh fruits and durians,  do look out for these indigenous natives and discover a  living heritage amidst civilization.