About the guide

Human-Nature is a collaborative knowledge exchange programme aimed at creating a more inclusive and sustainable future. Focused on sustainability, Human-Nature explores Malaysia's cultural diversity and biodiversity, engaging local communities' knowledge to address the impacts of climate change on cultural rights.

As part of the Human-Nature programme, this guide offers insights and recommendations for working with communities in Malaysia, with a focus on Indigenous and marginalised groups.

Developed through a consultative process, this guide is a resource for artists, researchers and cultural organisations that want to foster meaningful and ethical co-collaborative partnerships. It is designed to be a tool to assist but is not a one-size fits all approach and it is advisable to be used as a supplementary material alongside in-depth research and practical work.

The title Aram Bekelala comes from the Iban language, and translates to “Come, let’s get to know each other”, reflecting the spirit in which the guide is written.

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This guide has been commissioned by the British Council Malaysia and authored by Catama, with peer-reviewers from organisations and creatives working with communities in East and West Malaysia (ANAK, Apa Kata Wanita Orang Asli, Borneo Bengkel, Borneo Komrad, Forever Sabah, June Rubis, PACOS Trust, Pangrok Sulap, SAVE Rivers, Society for Rights of Indigenous People of Sarawak, Shaq Koyok, Tuyang Initiative). 

See also