Malaysia’s indigenous peoples comprise over 67 ethnic groups, representing around 14 percent of the country’s population. While they live in almost every state and territory within the country and are afforded special status by the constitution, indigenous people often suffer from poverty and social exclusion. Despite socio-economic limitations, the indigenous people of Malaysia seem to be saddled with the responsibility of having to fight for the survival of the country’s forested areas.

The importance of safe, sanitised water is key to a country’s development. The logic behind this is simple – if a nation tries to deliver better health to its growing population, without regard for its natural resources, it will not only face a struggle to make forward strides; but could even experience a reversal in the progress that has already been made. This is where the relationship between water services and a healthy, sustainable ecosystem comes into play.