Research operations gain full momentum in Malaysia
Voices of the Rainforest has reached an important stage as research operations have gained full momentum with the appointment of a research officer and four research assistants in Malaysia.
Led by a team of interdisciplinary researchers, and rooted in anthropology and education, the project seeks to amplify the voices of indigenous communities while investigating their traditional ecological knowledge and exploring how it can be utilised to develop a climate change curriculum.
The research team conducted project training and team-building activities at Villea Rompin Resort, Kuala Rompin, Pahang, Malaysia, from 9 to 12 September 2024. The aim of the training was to equip the newly appointed research officer and research assistants with skills in various aspects of the research, including understanding roles and responsibilities, ethnographic data collection, data management, ethical responsibilities, and financial aspects of the project.
The team engaged in data collection with schoolteachers and indigenous communities. Over two days, they visited several schools and villages to interview teachers and survey the areas of Rompin and Endau for ethnographic data collection as part of phase one of the project.
Reflecting on these experiences, the research assistants highlighted the importance of cultural sensitivity, the insights gained from engaging with indigenous communities, and the effective use of ethnographic methodologies as a means of understanding traditional ecological knowledge.
I faced communication challenges with the Tok Batin and local committee members, as their storytelling was often incomplete, leading to misunderstandings and misinterpretations. This experience taught me the importance of humility, patience, and adaptability when working with diverse community members.
- Nur Iman Kamarudin Azhar
During the training, I conducted both structured and unstructured interviews, which helped me gain insights into traditional ecological knowledge and climate change education. Observing cultural practices and gathering information through informal interviews broadened my perspective on how to align research with community values for more effective outcomes.
- Nur Izzati Abdullah
The rapid ethnographic approach allowed me to observe and understand the indigenous community’s culture while preventing ethnocentric bias. With the team, I was able to spend time with local residents and observe their daily lives and practices. This method helped me gain a deeper understanding of the indigenous community’s culture and could prevent researchers from developing biased or ethnocentric views.
- Qayherah Ahmad Zam Zam
The training provided me with valuable reflections on how different research methodologies can be adapted to various environments. The glimpse it offered into ethnographic fieldwork was more immersive compared to my previous projects, as I engaged directly with communities. I learned that cultural sensitivity and adapting to the community’s way of life are crucial for gaining a deeper understanding of their environment.
- Shazleeza Izlyn Yusaimi