KUALA LUMPUR, 22 October 2025 — Safe and secure housing remains one of the most urgent challenges facing Malaysia’s Orang Asli communities. According to the Department of Orang Asli Development (JAKOA), 89.4 percent of Orang Asli households still live below the poverty line, many in temporary structures that offer limited protection against heavy rain and extreme weather. As climate change intensifies, these families face growing risks of displacement and damage.
In Simpang Pulai, Perak, two families of Azimar and Wah Sepiah, and Joi and Ina, recently received new homes after years of uncertainty. Their stories reflect the continued impact of a long-term collaboration between Zurich Malaysia and EPIC Homes, a social enterprise that supports Orang Asli communities through sustainable housing initiatives.
“Before this, we lived in a bamboo house that we built ourselves. Whenever it rained heavily, water would leak in and disrupt our daily lives,” said Joi. “We’re happy to finally have a proper home and to have made new friends over the past few days,” added Puan Ina, noting that their youngest child was especially excited about their new home.
Now in its sixth year, the Zurich–EPIC Homes partnership focuses on co-creating lasting housing solutions. Each project involves the direct participation of beneficiary families in planning and construction, fostering a sense of ownership and community pride. Since 2019, homes have been completed in Rawang, Batang Kali, Bukit Beruntung, and Kuala Kubu Baru, with 11 homes built to date.
Zurich Malaysia employees play an active role through annual fundraising and volunteer efforts, supported by matching contributions from the Zurich Foundation. This year’s build was further enabled by zakat contributions. The company also offers volunteer leave, allowing employees to dedicate their time and expertise to community development projects.
“At Zurich Malaysia, we are committed to contributing to the wellbeing of the communities we serve,” said Erin Hwang, Head of Brand, Marketing and Communications at Zurich Malaysia. “Working alongside our volunteers reminded us of the power of collective action and compassion. Helping to build lasting homes for the Orang Asli is an investment in a more stable and resilient future.”
The latest initiative saw 62 volunteers from Zurich Malaysia, the Z Zurich Foundation, and partner GXBank come together to complete the new homes.
“At GXBank, we believe inclusivity begins with meaningful action that uplifts underserved communities,” said Calvin Foo, Head of Partnerships at GXBank. “Participating in this effort was both humbling and inspiring, and reinforces our shared commitment to social impact.”
Looking ahead, Zurich Malaysia and EPIC Homes plan to continue their collaboration with another build scheduled in Johor in early 2026, extending their mission to provide safer housing and stronger foundations for Orang Asli families nationwide.
