EMPOWERING EDUCATION: DEVELOPING A NEEDS-BASED LEADERSHIP MODEL FOR ORANG ASLI SCHOOLS IN MALAYSIA

This research aims to empower education by developing a needs-based and explores the imperative leadership model for Orang Asli schools in Malaysia. A marginalized indigenous community facing unique socio-cultural and economic challenges. This study utilized semi-structured interviews with four experienced headteachers from Orang Asli schools which revealed six key challenges: the need for culturally specific leadership strategies, lack of formal training, emotional resilience, logistical issues in remote areas, community engagement, and socio-economic barriers. These findings emphasize the need for a culturally sensitive and context-specific leadership framework, equipping leaders to address these challenges effectively and enhance educational outcomes for Orang Asli students. While the scope is limited to a small sample, the study offers critical insights for developing leadership practices tailored to the needs Orang Asli students.