CHARITY WORK in jungle fringed villages takes a lot of dedication – and pure grit.


Hosted by Outskirt Outreach, on 12th April 2008, a group of teachers from Mont Kiara International School, Kuala Lumpur, did their part for the less fortunate by hauling stacks of clothes on backpacks to donate to poor Orang Asli families in Pos Selim and Kampong Geruntum.



Video duration 5 minutes


On that sunny day (oh well, it rained in the afternoon, just when we started to go on foot), the teachers also got to see Orang Asli aborigines’ villagy way of life all laid out in one visit.


We would like to take this opportunity to thank Mont Kiara’s intrepid teachers Miriam Sutorius, Michelle Bliss, Christine Gibbins and Bonnie Lee and spouses for their effort in transfering the clothes, shoes and towels from KL and handcarrying them into the far flung villages. Also, not forgetting, a big pat on the back to all parents who have donated the items. Your kindness is much appreciated.


Cooling off in a hidden waterfall – There’s a funny story behind this picture (below). When the teachers wanted a place to change into swim suits, a local Orang Asli offered his hut. As the ladies cheerfully made a beeline into the bamboo hut, the man nonchalantly finish his small talk with, “… and oh, by the way, don’t disturb the python living on the roof” (??!!).


That parting punchline had everyone screaming and scampering out of the hut in no time. Apparently, the man and his family have been sharing house with the snake for some time. Orang Asli have great respect for wildlife and they view it as a blessing if an animal decides to hang around – in this case, literally – their hut.


Jungle survival rule no.1: Thou shall ask an Orang Asli what kind of housemate pet he keeps before stepping into his home.

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Special Notice Oct 2008 – We have finally mustered enough fund to self-host after hitching a ride from wordpress.com for 3 years. For the latest posts, articles and to keep in touch with us, please go to our new site www.outskirtoutreach.org. This “On The Far Side” blog’s contents and posts will diminish as we transfer them to the new one; which is a big big heap of work in the next few months. Thanks everyone for your kind support !