Development and modernization have caused biodiversity disruption that affects the stability of the forest ecosystem. Indigenous people (Orang Asli) are severely affected as their daily life activities depend on the forest. One of the initiatives to improve the situation is through resettlement program. However, studies have found that the program was less than successful as some of them prefer traditional life, while others cannot embrace the new modern living conditions. Hence, the main objective of the current study is to gain an in-depth understanding of the current phenomenon from the perspective of the Orang Asli. The study is underpinned by the sustainable design model with the adoption of a photojournalism approach. However, what is lacking in this model is the inclusion of residents’ culture and art, also known as aesthetics. A qualitative research design with ethnography approach was employed. Data were collected through the combination of Talanoa and Performative method, a newly applied method in the context of indigenous communities study. Theoretically, the findings contributed to a comprehensive sustainable design model. The findings were also instrumental for the government in formulating and implementing programs. Additionally, the study is expected to produce a systematic documentary of the livelihood of the Orang Asli.
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Gani, A. A., Mahdzar, M., & Razak, I. R. A. (2018). Local Community’s Opinions on PublicParticipation Practices at Kuala Gandah Elephant Sanctuary, Pahang. International Journal ofAcademic Research in Business and Social Sciences, 8(16), 356–366.
