For many Orang Asli families in Malaysia, home is more than a shelter — it’s a lifeline. Yet, for decades, thousands have lived in fragile, makeshift houses that offer little protection from harsh weather. According to the Department of Orang Asli Development (JAKOA), 89.4% of Orang Asli households live in poverty, many struggling to afford safe and durable housing. As climate change intensifies and heavy rains grow more frequent, these vulnerabilities deepen, leaving families at risk of losing what little they have.
Rebuilding Lives One Home At A Time
But amid these challenges, a powerful story of resilience and partnership is emerging. It’s the one built on compassion, community, and long-term commitment.
A Partnership That Changes Lives
In Simpang Pulai, Perak, two families, Encik Azimar and Puan Wah Sepiah, and Encik Joi and Puan Ina, had recently stepped into their new homes, marking a hopeful new chapter after years of uncertainty. Their joy reflects the lasting impact of a six-year collaboration between Zurich Malaysia and EPIC Homes, a social enterprise dedicated to building homes for underprivileged communities. Encik Joi and his wife shared:
“Before this, we were living in a bamboo house that we built ourselves. Whenever it rained heavily, water would leak in and disrupt our daily lives. We’re happy to finally have a proper home and to have made many new friends over the past few days.”
The initiative goes far beyond construction. Each build invites Orang Asli families to participate in designing and building their own homes. Since 2019, the collaboration has completed 11 homes across Rawang, Batang Kali, Bukit Beruntung, and Kuala Kubu Baru, helping families regain stability and dignity.
The Power Of Collective Compassion
Behind every build is a community of volunteers, partners, and donors who share one purpose: to uplift lives. This year, 62 volunteers from Zurich Malaysia, the Z Zurich Foundation, and GXBank came together to build homes and hope side by side with Orang Asli families. Erin Hwang, Head of Brand, Marketing and Communications at Zurich Malaysia said:
“At Zurich Malaysia, we are committed to caring for every community, regardless of the challenges they face. Taking part in building lasting homes for the Orang Asli is more than just a project for me; it’s an investment in a brighter, more resilient future.”
Zurich Malaysia’s employees not only donate funds but also time, with volunteer leave provided as part of their benefits. The company’s fundraising initiatives are amplified by matching contributions from the Z Zurich Foundation. Furthermore, this year’s build was further supported through zakat contributions. Calvin Foo, Head of Partnerships at GXBank shared:
For GXBank, joining this mission was an extension of their belief in inclusivity and meaningful action. “Seeing our teams come together with Zurich Malaysia for this project is inspiring and humbling. It reminds us of our core as a bank, that is, to uplift underserved communities.”
Continuing The Journey Toward Sustainability
The collaboration’s success in transforming lives has inspired ongoing efforts. Zurich Malaysia is already planning its next home-building project in Johor in early 2026, continuing its mission to support the Orang Asli on their journey toward sustainable living.
Every nail hammered and wall raised symbolizes a future built on security, opportunity, and hope. Through the united efforts of Zurich Malaysia, EPIC Homes, and their partners, Malaysia’s Orang Asli communities are not just receiving homes, but they are also reclaiming their right to a safer, stronger, and brighter tomorrow.
To learn more about Zurich Malaysia’s partnership with EPIC Homes, visit their Zurich.
