Rachel Tharmabalan explores how Malaysia’s Orang Asli can strengthen health and resilience through sustainable, community-led food systems. Her work, featured in the Journal of Agriculture, Food Systems, and Community Development, emphasizes traditional ecological knowledge, biodiversity, and self-determination. She was also interviewed by Penang Monthly for the article The Forest’s Table: Reviving Indigenous Knowledge for Malaysia’s Food Future.
The research highlights how loss of land access and traditional food practices has contributed to rising health challenges, including diet-related diseases. Dr. Tharmabalan proposes a Sustainable Food Sovereignty Model that puts communities at the center of decision-making and preserves Indigenous knowledge. Insights from 24 community informants shaped the study, ensuring it reflects local experiences and priorities.
Read more: JAFSCD article | Penang Monthly interview