Thus, while it is important to make sure Orang Asli children go to school, it is equally important to ensure that there are no breaks in their attendance such that they will be left behind academically. If this were to happen, the chances of the Orang Asli dropping out of school is increased. Imperfections in the system To a large extent, Orang Asli parents are left out of the education system. There may be some schools where they are part of the Parent-Teachers Associations (PTAs) but their impact in these bodies is invariably negligible. In communities where the dropout rate is highest, they are more likely to be not involved at all. If parents are not directly involved, however cursorily, in their children’s education, it is difficult to see how their needs and aspirations can be advanced and realised. This is especially so if the teachers and the school do not regard the parents as important partners in the education process. They can also provide valuable feedback to ensure a safer and longer stay in school for their children. I am reminded of an incident involving a JHEOA hostel in Ulu Kinta several years back where the Orang Asli parents were being told by their children that they were being exposed to pornographic videos by some of their teachers. There were also allegations of abuse. Police reports were lodged— something the normally reticent Temiar are not accustomed to doing—and an investigation was promptly conducted by the JHEOA. Needless to say, the JHEOA investigation found no truth to the matter.6 And the parents were left with the dilemma of asking their children to drop out of school or to close their eyes as well. Without formal involvement of the parents in the education of their children, and in decision-making positions as well, it is likely that shortcomings and failings will be allowed to exist and continue. ORANG ASLI – RIGHTS, PROBLEMS & SOLUTIONS 61