Semang

The Semang are indigenous peoples of the Malay Peninsula and one of the groups collectively known as the Orang Asli, the aboriginal inhabitants of Peninsular Malaysia. They have traditionally lived as hunter-gatherers in the forest, moving seasonally to harvest wild foods and forest products.

Geographically, Semang communities are concentrated in the northern and eastern parts of the peninsula, in states such as Perak, Kedah, Kelantan and Pahang, often in forested hills and remote valleys. The group is diverse, with commonly recognized subgroups including the Batek, Kensiu, and Jahai.

Linguistically, the Semang speak a cluster of languages that form part of the Austroasiatic language family, distinct from Malay and other regional languages. These languages are collectively referred to as Semang languages and reflect long-standing adaptations to forest environments.

Historically, the Semang had long-standing contact with Malay kingdoms, traders, and colonial powers, which brought changes to their communities through trade, disease, and land pressures. In the contemporary era, many Semang live in settled communities or in government-provisioned settlements, while others maintain semi-nomadic or traditional practices. They often supplement subsistence activities with wage work, gather forest products, or engage in small-scale agriculture.

Culturally, the Semang maintain a close relationship with the forest and its resources. Their spirituality typically emphasizes animistic beliefs and reverence for natural spirits, with elders or shamans playing roles in healing and community rites. Contemporary issues facing Semang communities include land rights, deforestation, health access, and preserving traditional languages and knowledge.