The 2025 International Forum on One Korea received significant national attention and was featured prominently across Korea’s media networks. Many stories highlighted the forum’s vision for a free and unified Korea, coinciding with the historic commemoration of the 80th Liberation Day.

Hosted in Seoul, the Forum convened policymakers, scholars, civil society leaders, and youth to advance the Korean Dream and chart a path toward peaceful reunification. Complementing the forum, the 2025 Korean Dream Hangang Festa—held at Ttukseom Hangang Park—brought together thousands for a cultural celebration featuring music, performances, and messages of hope from global voices. These twin events inspired a new generation and underscored the growing momentum for a unified Korea.

The Korea Times: Address by Global Peace Foundation Chairman Hyun Jin Preston Moon at banquet marking Korea’s 80th Liberation Day

MK News: 드론쇼와 함께 한 ‘2025 코리안드림 한강대축제’

Joongang: 광복절 기념 ‘코리안드림 한강대축제’ 성료 [출처:중앙일보]

Economist: 시민 3만 명, 광복절 저녁 드론쇼에 ‘코리안드림’ 띄우다

Munhwa: 하늘 위 1200대 드론, 통일 염원 그렸다

News 1: ‘코리안드림 한강대축제’ 대규모 불꽃쇼

News 1: 광복 80주년 기념한 ‘코리안드림 한강대축제’

Asia Today: 80주년 광복절 기념 ‘2025 코리안드림 한강대축제’ 개최

Herald Economy: ‘케데헌’ 까치호랑이, 한강 하늘서 ‘통일’ 외치자, 3만명 열광·환호·합창[함영훈의 멋·맛·쉼]

Sports Trends: 시민 3만 명, 드론쇼에 ‘코리안드림’ 띄우다

Newsis: 2025 코리안드림 한강대축제 드론쇼

Yonhap News: [K스토리] 광복 80년, ‘코리안드림’으로 하나 된 축제

Dong-A News: 광복 80주년 3만 시민 한강서 ‘통일’ 외쳤다‘2025 코리안드림 한강대축제’ 개최… ‘케데헌 까치호랑이’ 드론쇼 밤하늘 수놓아

Asia Today: [전문] 문현진 글로벌피스재단 세계의장, ‘광복80주년기념만찬’ 기조연설문

Asia Today: 문현진 글로벌피스재단 의장 “통일부 대신 비정부기관…일관된 방향성 중요”

Munhwa: “통일은 제2의 ‘한강의 기적’… 젊은이들에 큰 기회될 것”

World Daily: 한강 밤하늘에 드론 1200대 떴다…“통일은 통합의 지평”

Nate News: 한강 밤하늘에 드론 1200대 떴다…”통일은 통합의 지평”

Nate News: ‘케데헌’ 까치호랑이, 한강 하늘서 ‘통일’ 외치자, 3만명 열광·환호·합창[함영훈의 멋·맛·쉼]

Chosun: 뚝섬 한강서 드론 1200대 투입 ‘2025 코리안드림 한강대축제’

Like the ancient Imjin River that flows unimpeded from North to South, the Korean people’s destiny toward unity cannot be permanently blocked by artificial barriers. The 1919 Sam Il movement showed us that 2 million Koreans can come together as one people, dreaming not just of independence but of a nation embodying Hongik Ingan—to broadly benefit all humanity. The rivers remember what politics have forgotten—that what divides Korea is recent and artificial, while what unites it spans five millennia.

Rivers of the North and South

Originating in the North, the Imjin River flows south, unencumbered by the military checkpoints, guard towers, and barbed wire fences of the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ). The river then combines with the great Han River that flows through Seoul. By the time these waters reach the Yellow Sea, they have become a single, powerful flow.

The Imjin-Han River system operates as it has for millennia, long before the artificial division of 1945 that separated a people who share over 5,000 years of common history, language, and cultural traditions.

Just as the Imjin River’s waters merge seamlessly with the Han to form a stronger, more vibrant waterway, so too might the Korean people find their way back to unity despite nearly eight decades of separation and ideological differences.

Beyond Bitter History

For nearly 80 years, the Korean Peninsula has endured a painful division. Families were torn apart, ideologies hardened, and mutual suspicion became entrenched. The Korean War (1950-1953) claimed millions of lives and left physical and emotional scars that still affect both societies today.

Yet beneath this bitter history runs a deeper current of shared identity. The rivers remind us that what divides Koreans is recent and artificial, while what unites them is ancient and natural. When North and South Koreans meet in third countries, they discover their common humanity – the same language, songs, stories, and values, as well as shared ancestral traditions and ideals.

The Unfulfilled Promise of March 1st

The rivers’ journey toward unity echoes the unfulfilled aspirations of the March 1st Movement of 1919, when Koreans across the peninsula rose in peaceful protest against Japanese colonial rule. This watershed moment in Korean history represented the collective yearning for independence and self-determination, with millions of Koreans from all walks of life joining in nationwide demonstrations.

The Declaration of Independence, signed by 33 cultural and religious leaders representing different regions and faiths, articulated a vision for Korea that transcended mere national liberation. These leaders envisioned a nation founded on Hongik Ingan—the ancient Korean ideal of “broadly benefiting humanity.” This founding philosophy, dating back to the mythical establishment of Korea by Dangun in 2333 BCE, envisioned Korea as a nation that would contribute to the good of all humanity rather than pursue narrow self-interest.

Leaders like Ahn Chang-ho and Kim Gu—though differing in their specific approaches—shared this commitment to creating a Korea that would stand as a model nation built on principles of justice, equality, and service to humanity. Their vision was not merely of an independent Korea, but of a Korea that would help lead humanity toward greater harmony and prosperity.

The division of Korea in 1945 prevented this vision from being realized, as geopolitical interests once again superseded the Korean people’s aspirations. Yet like the persistent Imjin River that continues its southward journey despite obstacles, the ideals of Hongik Ingan remain alive in Korean consciousness, waiting for the day when a reunified Korea can finally embody them.

Building a New Nation Together

Reunification would not mean the simple absorption of one state by the other. The problems seen on both sides of the DMZ suggest that neither has all the answers. Rather, Dr. Hyun Jin Moon proposes the creation of a new nation through a process of rediscovering and learning from the ancient Korean values and the Hongik Ingan ideal.

Moreover, he suggests that a new Korean nation might embody a harmonious blend of complementary strengths: Northern resource wealth enhanced by Southern technological expertise; traditional Korean values enriched by globally-engaged innovation; and the resilience forged through hardship complemented by the prosperity built through engagement. This synergy would create something greater than either could achieve alone.

The Ocean Awaits

As the joined rivers ultimately flow into the vast Yellow Sea, they remind us that a reunited Korea would not exist in isolation but would take its place in the wider world. A peaceful, reunified Korean Peninsula would contribute significantly to regional stability and global prosperity.

Like those persistent waters finding their way to unity despite all obstacles, the Korean people may yet navigate the challenging rapids of reconciliation. When they do, they will discover that, like the rivers merging on their journey to the sea, they are stronger together than apart—their combined energies creating new possibilities that neither could achieve alone.

“When we practice a lifestyle of service, truly living for others, we exemplify the highest ideals of human character.”

Dr. Hyun Jin P. Moon (Global Peace Convention, Philippines, 2009)

The holiday season is often seen as a time for reflection, gratitude, and giving. It’s a time when communities come together, whether through family gatherings, charity events, or volunteer work. Yet, it’s also a moment to reflect on something deeper: the role that service plays in building peace around the world.

One inspiring example of this principle in action during this last holiday season comes from Candelaria, Quezon, where the Global Peace Foundation Philippines (GPF Philippines) and local partners launched an impactful initiative that not only lit up homes but also brightened the futures of many residents.

Light as a Symbol of Hope and Innovation

In a heartwarming display of community service, GPF Philippines handed over 100 solar lanterns and 10 solar street lights to the residents of Candelaria as part of the All-Lights Village initiative. This project, which serves as both a Christmas gift and a year-round solution to rural electrification, underscores the significance of moral leadership and innovative thinking in addressing some of the world’s most persistent challenges.

The project’s impact extends beyond its practical benefits. Solar-powered lanterns and streetlights don’t just provide light; they offer hope and security, transforming the way communities live and thrive. This act of service represents the powerful intersection of sustainability, renewable energy, and social impact—all essential elements of a brighter, more equitable future.

Developing Moral Leadership Through Service

At the heart of every service project lies the opportunity for moral leadership. Leaders in the project understand that true leadership goes beyond authority or decision-making—it is about creating positive change and inspiring others to act with compassion and responsibility. The executive director of GPF Philippines talked about the symbolic role of light—representing hope, unity, and progress—and highlighted how service can lead to transformative leadership.

Such leadership is about much more than solving immediate problems. It’s about cultivating values like integrity, compassion, and selflessness. By actively engaging in service, leaders demonstrate their commitment to improving the well-being of others, which in turn fosters a culture of empathy and collaboration. Whether it’s through giving resources, time, or expertise, leaders who embrace service as a core tenet of their mission create ripple effects of positive change.

Innovative Solutions to Real-World Problems

The All-Lights Village initiative doesn’t just address an immediate need for light; it embodies an innovative approach to tackling long-term issues. In rural areas like Candelaria, access to reliable electricity is often limited. Solar-powered lanterns and streetlights are a sustainable solution that enhances safety and mobility and reduces dependency on conventional energy sources.

This is where the power of innovation intersects with moral leadership. By harnessing renewable energy to provide light, this initiative is helping to break the cycle of poverty while also addressing environmental concerns. It showcases how out-of-the-box thinking—in this case, solar technology—can offer practical, scalable solutions to global challenges like rural electrification and climate change.

The program’s success is due, in large part, to the collaborative efforts of multiple partners. A leader of a local organization eloquently captured the essence of this partnership by highlighting how collective action can result in lasting change. “True progress begins when we come together, with compassion and commitment, to light the way for others,” she said. This statement exemplifies the power of community-based solutions, where each partner brings unique strengths to the table for the greater good.

The Role of Service in Building Stronger Communities

The All-Lights Village initiative is a reminder that sustainable development requires more than just financial investment or technology. It requires a commitment to the well-being of others and an acknowledgment that progress is not just about improving infrastructure—it’s about improving lives. As GPF Philippines continues to lead such initiatives, they reaffirm their commitment to fostering self-reliant and resilient communities, guided by the principle of “living for the greater good.”

This concept of service-driven leadership is crucial in the 21st century, where challenges like environmental sustainability, poverty, and inequality continue to test our collective ability to innovate and collaborate. It is through service—whether it’s bringing light to a rural community, helping those in need, or offering new solutions to persistent problems—that we unlock the true potential of leadership and innovation.

Conclusion: Leading by Example

The Global Peace Foundation’s initiative in Candelaria exemplifies the profound impact of service in moral leadership and innovative solutions. It serves as a powerful reminder that true leadership doesn’t reside only in boardrooms or decision-making offices. Sometimes, it’s in the simple, everyday acts of service that leaders show the world what it means to care, innovate, and build a brighter future for all.

As we face the world’s most pressing challenges, let us take inspiration from these acts of giving. Let us embrace service as a core value in leadership, always seeking new and better ways to solve problems and uplift communities. When we lead with compassion and a commitment to the greater good, we not only solve problems—we ignite the light of hope that can guide others toward a brighter, more sustainable future.

The original post appears on Global Peace Foundation. Global Peace Foundation is an international non-sectarian, non-partisan, nonprofit organization, which promotes an innovative, values-based approach to peacebuilding, guided by the vision of One Family under God. GPF engages and organizes a global network of public and private-sector partners who develop community, national, and regional peacebuilding models as the foundation for ethical and cohesive societies. Dr. Hyun Jin Preston Moon is the founder and chairman of the Global Peace Foundation.

Environmental stewardship underscores the responsibility we all share in caring for the natural world and ensuring its long-term health. At the heart of this celebration was the collective commitment to conservation, with a focus on practical actions that will make a real difference in Kenya’s fight against environmental degradation.

Global Peace Foundation Kenya, alongside key partners, recently celebrated the 2nd Mazingira Day, a day dedicated to environmental awareness and action, at Starehe Girls Centre. This event was a powerful demonstration of environmental stewardship, as it aimed to address the critical challenges of climate change, biodiversity loss, and pollution while promoting sustainable practices that can safeguard our planet’s future.

A Collaborative Commitment to Sustainability

Speakers highlighted the community’s commitment to supporting the national tree-growing strategy. By actively participating in efforts to plant trees and promote sustainability, the Starehe Girls Centre is instilling the values of environmental responsibility in its students, encouraging them to become future stewards of the environment.

A representative from KCB Bank also demonstrated a strong commitment to environmental stewardship, announcing its goal of planting 1,500 trees at its branches by 2027, with a broader vision to plant 1 million trees annually. This initiative not only contributes to the ongoing national tree-growing campaign but also sets a model for other corporations to integrate environmental stewardship into their business practices.

Empowering Communities to Protect the Environment

Representatives from Global Peace Foundation Kenya highlighted the collaborative efforts that have allowed them to establish over 15 tree nurseries across 11 counties, which have produced over 2 million trees to date. These nurseries, with the capacity to grow 100,000 trees each, are a testament to the power of grassroots efforts in achieving large-scale environmental goals. Through such initiatives, communities are not only being empowered to take ownership of their environment but are also contributing directly to Kenya’s ambitious goal of planting 15 billion trees by 2032.

Taking Action: Planting 150 Trees

The event concluded with a hands-on demonstration of environmental stewardship—planting 150 trees at Starehe Girls Centre. This symbolic act was a reminder that environmental conservation requires both advocacy and action. Each tree planted represents a commitment to the future, helping to restore ecosystems, reduce carbon emissions, and promote biodiversity.

Moving Forward: Fostering a Culture of Environmental Stewardship

As Kenya continues to face environmental challenges, collective action is essential. The 2nd Mazingira Day was a powerful reminder that environmental stewardship is not just the responsibility of one organization or sector—it requires a broad and inclusive approach. By working together—across communities, businesses, schools, and government—we can protect and restore our environment for future generations.

The efforts seen at Mazingira Day serve as an example of how environmental stewardship can be woven into the fabric of everyday life. From the leadership of organizations like KCB Bank and Starehe Girls Centre to the grassroots efforts of local communities, every action counts. With sustained commitment and collaboration, Kenya can meet its ambitious environmental goals, ensuring a greener, more sustainable future for all.

The original post appears on Global Peace Foundation. Global Peace Foundation is an international non-sectarian, non-partisan, nonprofit organization, which promotes an innovative, values-based approach to peacebuilding, guided by the vision of One Family under God. GPF engages and organizes a global network of public and private-sector partners who develop community, national, and regional peacebuilding models as the foundation for ethical and cohesive societies. Dr. Hyun Jin Preston Moon is the founder and chairman of the Global Peace Foundation.

For more than a decade, the Global Peace Foundation has supported families in forging sustainable solutions to the developmental challenges facing Nepal’s largest city. A recent project called Green Homes: Green Kathmandu is countering poor waste management, severe water pollution, and worsening air quality. The ongoing program empowers families with the knowledge and skills to transform their homes into eco-friendly properties. Participants engage in rooftop farming, rainwater harvesting, and other sustainable techniques that the Nepalese people take ownership of and use to further uplift their communities.

Seeing the tremendous need for sustainable development in Nepal’s largest city, Global Peace Foundation (GPF) Nepal collaborated with Kathmandu Metropolitan City Ward 5 and Ward 15 to launch the Green Homes: Green Kathmandu project in January 2023. The ongoing program utilizes “green homes” to counter the challenges of poor waste management, severe water pollution, and worsening air quality. Kathmandu lacks open spaces and sustainable agriculture, causing the price of fresh produce to skyrocket.

Over the last year, volunteers and staff of GPF Nepal have provided education and training on a variety of techniques to help citizens transform their homes into eco-friendly and sustainable properties. They learned about sustainable solid waste management, upcycling plastic waste to create new marketable products, making eco-friendly sanitary pads, rainwater harvesting, rooftop gardening, and sustainable farming techniques. Vital health education allowed them to also protect their household from waterborne diseases and reduce air pollution.

Anjali, a participant, expressed her gratitude for being a part of Green Homes: Green Kathmandu. She shared her reflection, saying:

I am dedicated to putting into practice everything I have learned. As a demonstration of my commitment to sustainability, I have sold my petrol car and purchased an electric vehicle. Additionally, I have incorporated eco-friendly products into my business, selling 150 soaps and 50 liters of liquid soap each month at my shop. Furthermore, I have implemented rooftop farming to ensure a steady supply of vegetables for my family.

I am deeply thankful to Global Peace Foundation Nepal and Engage Nepal for providing me with this invaluable opportunity to make a positive impact on both my community and the environment.

Sarita was another beneficiary of the training provided by GPF Nepal. She shared:

In the past year of my involvement in the Green Homes: Green Kathmandu project, I have undergone significant personal and professional transformation. Initially, I struggled with shyness and lacked confidence in interacting with others. However, through my participation in the project, I have learned to overcome these challenges, build confidence, and develop essential teamwork and networking skills.

Working alongside my team, I have successfully produced and sold liquid soap within our community. Additionally, I have embraced sustainable practices such as rooftop farming using home-produced compost and waste reuse. By selling non-biodegradable waste and upcycling plastic products, I have also generated income. Together with my team, we have sold 302 units of liquid soap, with a growing demand from friends and relatives.

I am immensely grateful for the support provided by this project, which has not only empowered me personally but has also contributed to my livelihood.

GPF Nepal is dedicated to contributing to the country’s sustainable development. With ongoing participation in events like the Regional Conference on Rainwater Harvesting and Management and World Water Day, GPF Nepal partnered in forums, service projects, and outdoor youth leadership programs to help young people and families connect with nature and the environment.

The original post appears on Global Peace Foundation. Global Peace Foundation is an international non-sectarian, non-partisan, nonprofit organization, which promotes an innovative, values-based approach to peacebuilding, guided by the vision of One Family under God. GPF engages and organizes a global network of public and private-sector partners who develop community, national, and regional peacebuilding models as the foundation for ethical and cohesive societies. Dr. Hyun Jin Preston Moon is the founder and chairman of the Global Peace Foundation.

“The interfaith approach of GPF is built on the premise that there is a common vision that motivates and animates all of humanity. That vision is One Family under God.”

Dr. Hyun Jin Moon highlighted the unique peacebuilding approach of the Global Peace Foundation during his first visit to Abuja, Nigeria in 2013. Over the last decade, GPF Nigeria has taken significant strides in healing communities once divided between Christians and Muslims, tribal beliefs, and cultural traditions. Stakeholders across the country have joined Peace and Reconciliation Committees and, most recently, the establishment of Cooperative Societies.

Dr. Moon’s encouragement in 2013 forecasted the powerful transformation Nigeria had in store. “Africans have not been overwhelmed by their challenges. They have the spirit and hope to build a brighter future for themselves, their families, and their future generations. That is more precious than all the gold, oil, or diamonds that are on this continent. That is what will allow Africa to lift itself from its challenges and will bring a brighter future for the children and the children’s children.”

“I’m inspired by the enthusiasm and unity displayed today. Let’s harness the power of cooperation to create sustainable livelihoods and opportunities for all members of our community.”

A leader of the Ni’ima Cooperative Society, a partner of the Global Peace Foundation (GPF) Nigeria, expressed enthusiasm for the joint efforts to bridge religious and cultural divides in Southern Kaduna, saying, “I’m inspired by the unity and enthusiasm displayed today. Let’s harness the power of cooperation to create sustainable livelihoods and opportunities for all members of our community.”

In a one-day event held in Fadan Chawai on March 2, 2024, more than 160 men, women, and youth gathered to hear keynote speeches from community and religious leaders advocating for cooperative societies and peaceful coexistence. The audience included families, local authorities, and people from various cultural backgrounds.

“As the Divisional Police Officer, I commend the collaborative efforts of all stakeholders in promoting peace and economic stability,” said one participant, “Let’s continue working together for a safer and prosperous community.”

A representative of GPF Nigeria stated, “On behalf of the Global Peace Foundation, I applaud the community’s commitment to unity and cooperation. Together, we can build a future of peace and prosperity for all as members of One Family Under God.”

A captain from the Nigerian Army was moved by the collaboration he saw at the forum, stating, “I commend the community’s dedication to peacebuilding. Let’s continue to support each other in fostering security and development.”

The Kauru Peace and Reconciliation Committee chairman also commended the community for coming together to build a more resilient community. The peace committee is one of several groups formed following years of peacebuilding workshops and facilitated dialogue by GPF Nigeria. Together with local partners, the peace committee strives to foster collaboration, enhance community empowerment, strengthen security, and increase economic resilience.

The original post appears on Global Peace Foundation. Global Peace Foundation is an international non-sectarian, non-partisan, nonprofit organization, which promotes an innovative, values-based approach to peacebuilding, guided by the vision of One Family under God. GPF engages and organizes a global network of public and private-sector partners who develop community, national, and regional peacebuilding models as the foundation for ethical and cohesive societies. Dr. Hyun Jin Preston Moon is the founder and chairman of the Global Peace Foundation.

Global Peace Foundation (GPF) has worked since 2009 to build models of peacebuilding around the world. This has connected people across race, nationality, religion, and social divides to recognize shared values and invest in a future together. This is what it means to really embody the vision of One Family under God.

A project by GPF India called the SMILE program demonstrates this peacebuilding model. By providing a platform for youth to break past traditional identities of religion and caste, the program helps them affirm their common humanity through education and engaging group activities.

Global Peace Foundation India’s SMILE initiative brings together parents, children, and mentors in the community to engage in activities that uplift the family and promotes community service. SMILE is designed to educate young people in setting examples of compassion, love, and kindness across different segments of society. 

In June, GPF India brought together twenty-three underprivileged children from the Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam Learning Center and provided them with an opportunity to visit the renowned National Science Centre in New Delhi. The field trip aimed to broaden their horizons and spark curiosity about science and technology.

The Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam Learning Center, located in Karawal Nagar, a low-income neighborhood, caters to children who face socio-economic challenges. Many of them come from families that struggle to make ends meet. The center strives to provide quality education and holistic development opportunities to empower young minds and brighten their future.

Accompanied by teachers and volunteers, the enthusiastic group embarked on a journey of exploration and discovery at the National Science Centre. The museum, known for its interactive exhibits and engaging displays, proved to be an ideal platform for these kids to delve into the fascinating world of science.

The students eagerly participated in various hands-on activities and interactive demonstrations, gaining valuable insights into scientific principles. From learning about space exploration and astronomy to discovering the wonders of physics and biology, the young visitors were captivated by the immersive learning experiences offered by the museum.

It was their first time stepping into a science museum of this magnitude. Their eyes sparkled with excitement as they explored the exhibits and experimented with the interactive displays. The field trip not only provided them with exposure to a world beyond their immediate surroundings but also instilled a sense of wonder and ignited their passion for learning.

GPF India was grateful to partner with the National Science Centre to provide such an immersive experience for the students. Such experiences play a vital role in shaping the educational journey of the underprivileged, exposing them to new possibilities and inspiring them to dream big.

This heartening initiative serves as a reminder of the power of education and community support in creating equal opportunities for all children, regardless of their socioeconomic backgrounds. By nurturing curiosity and expanding our horizons, we pave the way for a brighter future where every child can realize their full potential.

The SMILE Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam Learning Center hopes to continue collaborating with various institutions and organizations to provide enriching experiences for the students, empowering them to break the cycle of poverty and build a better tomorrow.

The original post appears on Global Peace Foundation. Global Peace Foundation is an international non-sectarian, non-partisan, nonprofit organization, which promotes an innovative, values-based approach to peacebuilding, guided by the vision of One Family under God. GPF engages and organizes a global network of public and private-sector partners who develop community, national, and regional peace building models as the foundation for ethical and cohesive societies. Dr. Hyun Jin Preston Moon is founder and chairman of the Global Peace Foundation.

For years, the Global Peace Foundation (GPF) has helped transform lives in Malaysia’s rural farming communities. GPF’s development and service model provides education and support to empower local people to become moral and innovative leaders who make the solutions for their communities. The following article from GPF tells the story of how volunteers and GPF staff have helped inspire villagers to improve their quality of life and provide much-needed resources for their communities.

Nothing encapsulates the feeling of familiarity and comfort like a home-cooked meal prepared by the women in our families. However, women’s roles do not just stop in the kitchen. Making up 43% of the global agricultural labor force, women are central to farming and play vital roles in food security and nutrition at both the household and community levels.

Throughout the years of working with Orang Asli (original peoples of Malaysia) communities, we are continuously inspired by the passion and drive of Orang Asli women as they strive to improve and diversify their livelihood through various income-generating opportunities. However, despite their interest and hard work, many of them continue to face complex challenges, such as a lack of knowledge, resources, and capital.

Syntropic Farming for Food Security

To address some of these challenges, we kickstarted a Syntropic Agroforestry project with the Orang Asli farmers. This food farming project aims to rejuvenate the ecosystem to allow a diverse variety of plants to grow. In the long term, we hope that these farms will become self-sufficient, providing villagers with nutrient-dense and organic food, as well as additional opportunities for income generation.

It has now been over one year since we started the Syntropic Farming project, and many of our Amai (“aunty” in Jakun) farmers have successfully harvested a variety of vegetables and fruits ranging from chili, corn, and ginger to bananas, sweet potatoes, and lemongrass.

Economic Empowerment: From Farming to Selling

However, as farmers begin to harvest their vegetable and fruit crops, they are now faced with another challenge–market access to sell their produce. Many farmers have difficulty selling their produce to nearby towns or markets due to the remoteness of the villages and lack of transportation. 

In order to bridge market access barriers, we set up the KebunAmai to support our farmers in marketing and selling their fresh produce.

Just last month, we partnered with a local consumer cooperative in Malaysia, to support the Orang Asli to sell their fresh produce in organic markets across the Klang Valley area. Selling an assortment of vegetables and fruits such as bananas, ginger, sengkuang, lemongrass, and more, this partnership not only brings renewed hope for the Orang Asli farmers but also opens the door for additional opportunities for income generation.

Through connections with wholesalers, grocers, and the communities within the Pahang and Klang Valley area, we hope to empower and support the farmers’ livelihood through income generation.

Meet Amai Normah and Amai Yati

In addition to selling their fresh produce, several Amai have also started experimenting with producing homemade products using harvested vegetables and fruits. As many of them expressed interest in making homemade chips, we organized a food production training session with the farmers. Additionally, we also provided the farmers with basic equipment to help them kickstart their homemade chips journey!

Amai Normah, an Orang Asli farmer from Kg. Pinang surprised our team with her creativity and initiative as she showed us her mouth-watering assortment of banana chips.

“Before this, I was disinterested in making chips and losing motivation in entrepreneurship. But after attending the chips making training, I tried to do it myself. I hope to start a mini market that focuses on selling chips with different flavours, and to innovate different variants of chips.” – Amai Normah, Kg. Pinang

With flavors ranging from sweet, salty, spicy, and even one with turmeric spices, Amai Normah uses the harvested bananas from her farm to make her homemade banana chips. The quality and taste of the chips are so good that even the team from Yayasan Hasanah could not resist buying Amai Normah’s banana chips after having the opportunity to taste them. 

Similarly, Amai Yati from Kg. Bukit Biru also specializes in homemade chips. Working diligently on her farm, Amai Yati is passionate about using her harvested produce to make chips. Since the food production training session, Amai Yati has made a variety of chips, though, her yam chips definitely take the top spot for best tasting!

New Hope for Orang Asli Amai 

There’s no better feeling than seeing the proud smiles of the Orang Asli Amai, as they boast fruitful farms and a renewed hope for the future. In the long term, we hope that the KebunAmai initiative will foster greater women’s entrepreneurship amongst the villagers, thus, opening the door for boundless opportunities for income generation.

The original post appears on Global Peace Foundation. Global Peace Foundation is an international non-sectarian, non-partisan, nonprofit organization, which promotes an innovative, values-based approach to peacebuilding, guided by the vision of One Family under God. GPF engages and organizes a global network of public and private-sector partners who develop community, national, and regional peacebuilding models as the foundation for ethical and cohesive societies. Dr. Hyun Jin Preston Moon is the founder and chairman of the Global Peace Foundation.