Parents’ Roles on Educational Goals among the Orang Asli Community in Malaysia

Abstract

This study aimed to explore the role of parents of aboriginal or Orang Asli in directing their children's education in Malaysia. The design of the case study was to ascertain the perspective of parents in improving the academic achievement of their children. Data source was obtained from two mothers and two fathers from the Orang Asli community as a research subjects in this study. The instruments used were a protocol interview and observation checklist. In-depth interviews were conducted to obtain detailed information. Observations in the home environment of the Orang Asli people were conducted to investigate the extent of the role of parents in their children's education. From the information analyzed, themes were identified and data triangulation technique was performed to determine the validity and reliability of the results. The findings showed that Orang Asli parents were found to have aspirations and goals in the direction of their children's education. It showed that the ratio goals among parents is very important in improving academic achievement, improving school attendance and helping to solve the problem of school dropouts. Accordingly, this study hopes to provide guidance to all stakeholders concerned in order to raise awareness about the importance of education among Orang Asli parents.