UOB’s Solar Miracle: How 14 Orang Asli Homes Got Powered by the Sun in Kg Tan Hain!

For the Orang Asli families in Kg Tan Hain, life without electricity was a daily struggle. Once the sun set, darkness took over. Children couldn’t study after dark, families had to rush through household tasks, and evenings were spent with little access to basic comforts like lighting or communication. Without electricity, opportunities for education, work, and overall quality of life were severely limited. These families lived disconnected from the conveniences of modern life, simply because they had no access to a reliable power source.

The thing about living without electricity is that it doesn’t just limit your ability to power a home—it limits your future. Imagine children unable to study at night, missing out on vital education. Or think of the strain on parents who can’t extend their workday, or who struggle with even simple tasks like charging a phone to stay connected with the outside world. For the 14 Orang Asli families in Kg Tan Hain, the lack of electricity affected every aspect of their lives. And with no access to the national power grid, there seemed to be no solution in sight. The community was left in the dark, both literally and figuratively.

Enter SOLS Foundation’s Kampung Solar project, in collaboration with UOB Malaysia, offering a transformative solution: solar energy. Together, we were able to install solar panels in 14 homes in Kg Tan Hain, providing renewable energy to a community that once relied solely on daylight. With solar power, these families now have up to 12 extra hours of electricity each day. Children can study after dark, families can relax and bond in well-lit homes, and the village has taken a significant step toward sustainability.

However, the impact goes beyond just installing panels. We also worked closely with the villagers to ensure they’re equipped with the knowledge and skills to maintain and troubleshoot their solar systems. This training helps ensure that the benefits of this project will continue for years to come, fostering independence within the community.

With solar power now lighting up Kg Tan Hain, these families are not just experiencing more convenience—they’re embracing new opportunities for growth, and a brighter future.

This transformation in Kg Tan Hain is far from being the end. Across Malaysia, many more Orang Asli/Asal (indigenous) families still live without access to electricity. Thanks to the incredible support from UOB Malaysia, we’ve been able to make a real difference in this community. But there’s more work to be done.

By supporting projects like these, you too can help bring light and hope to communities in need. Visit our website today to learn how you can help power more homes and bring hope to underserved communities. Together, we can build a brighter, more sustainable future.