For marginalised and underserved communities, navigating life can be extremely challenging without access to financial services. Access to finance goes beyond withdrawing and depositing money. Investments, loans, and savings accounts are some financial tools (and opportunities) that can empower individuals to improve their lives by managing finances strategically and safely.  Inadequate to no financial access can cause a severe setback especially for marginalised and underserved communities who are already experiencing multiple challenges in life.

In the midst of development and modernity of Johor Bahru lies a luscious public forest park, thriving with flora and fauna. Undulating tall trees as far as the eyes can see, vast land of green grass by the cool shimmering lake. It’s a place that offers peace for those who desire tranquility, and adventure for those who dare to seek further. 

From the town of Chenor, it took about an hour and a half to reach Kampung Ulu Gumum 1. It is one of the Orang Asli villages where Yayasan Hasanah’s partner (Hasanah), Yayasan Kajian dan Pembangunan Masyarakat (YKPM),  is running an organic vegetable farm project with the Jakuns since early 2019. 

Kangar, the state capital of Perlis, sits just 33km south of Thailand (entry via Padang Besar Check Point) and 50km from Alor Setar, the capital city of Kedah. Depending on who you talk to, the origin of the town's name changes. "It was named after a tree, where 16th century sea traders took a respite from deal-making under its massive boughs. "Not true! It was named after a unique type of hawk, found only in this part of the country". And so on.