Umah Temuan

Sustainable tourism

Moving into this post-pandemic era, undoing the damages caused in the past few years is no small feat. The health-related effects have been one of the most devastating outcomes of the pandemic.

Meanwhile, the economic effects of the pandemic strained many vulnerable communities across Malaysia, particularly the Orang Asli, and continue to cast a shadow on rebuilding efforts amidst rising cases.

With many of them now striving to regain economic ground lost in the past two years, I firmly believe we all have a part to play in supporting them. With the annual 3Mgives’s Community Grant, the perfect opportunity presented itself for us to enhance local communities through investment in non-profit organizations, that in turn look to support basic human needs issues right at the grassroots.

As part of this grant, 3M Malaysia recently worked with EPIC and Native to help the Temuan people create revenue through local eco-tourism through Umah Temuan. This curated homestay experience binds you to nature whilst helping local Temuan villagers enhance their economic capabilities. ?

This partnership is one of the most fulfilling projects we have undertaken at 3M Malaysia, and on a personal note for me, too. I was proud to see a sizeable number of 3M staff sign up to help build the homestay in its early stages – with no reservations in getting down and dirty together.

I joined them – and other volunteers and builders - on a few occasions, shovel in hand, building a solid foundation for what would become two fully-fledged homestays with main rooms for sleeping and functioning bathrooms.

The experience was gratifying on several levels. It was thrilling to come together with like-minded people intent on making a positive change in our corner of Malaysia. While working, it was also exciting to picture the possibilities – a stretch of land that would soon host lively tourists on a traditional bamboo homestay, and benefit the local Temuan people.

Above all, it was a welcome reminder that we could achieve so much when we band together. During the construction sessions, we were often visited by members of the tribe who would also bring along their?curious children, keeping us entertained with conversations and laughter.

I would also like to take this chance to highlight the warm, thriving community of the Temuan people and invite you to experience the magic for yourself. Here are some key attractions I know will enchant you at Umah Temuan:

1.?????Immerse yourself in nature

Umah Temuan is in the serene forest of Kampung Serendah in Rawang to offer a respite for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. The homestays are perched amidst greenery, next to the gently rushing Serendah river, guaranteeing a bubbling soundtrack to your stay and a fresh dip in calm waters right at your doorstep, whenever you fancy it.

?2.?????A curated look into Temuan culture

Every part of the Umah Temuan experience is designed to fill you with Temuan culture. From the homestays, which are constructed in the traditional high-pitched roof style, with bamboo wall panel weaving and locally-sourced atap bertam; to guided activities that allow you to weave bertam leaves for roof thatches; and cooking classes that let you recreate traditional Temuan recipes. For those who prefer some adventure, you can also join guided jungle treks that will take you up and around the village hills. ?

3.?????Tourism that gives back

At the end of your stay in Umah Temuan, you will be going home not as a tourist or a visitor, but as a welcome participant within the Temuan culture. Having imbibed the best of what the community has to offer, you have also rest easy knowing you have made a positive impact in supporting the Temuan people.

I have always believed that in any new journey, we should leave nothing but footprints behind – and at Umah Temuan, you have every opportunity to take a day (or more!) of rest and relaxation, indulging in the stillness of nature, and learning from the locals. Bookings can now be made at https://discovernative.org/explore/umah-temuan-homestay. I hope you will visit soon.?