Conceptual Framework and Linkage Between Social Capital and Disaster Preparedness: A Case of Orang Asli Families in Malaysia

There is an increasing concern about the relationship between social capital and disaster in the contemporary studies of disaster management. This article examines the level of social capital and disaster preparedness of the Orang Asli (indigenous people) families and develops linkage between them. In-depth interviews were carried out by the researcher with 10 Orang Asli families residing in Tasik Chini, Malaysia. Based on a structured questionnaire, this study employed a qualitative data collection technique using descriptive analysis to examine and present the data. The result showed that the majority of the families had a good bonding relationship within and between families, relatives, and neighbors with mutual trust and mutual help also existing among the Orang Asli families. However, Orang Asli families are detached from bridging and linking networks regarding other people, communities, and organizations due to their negative perceptions about the outsider. The study also determined there was low level of disaster preparedness among the Orang Asli families. Moreover, their participation in awareness programs and their willingness to participate in awareness programs and flood management committees were also found to be low. The results indicate nevertheless that the social capital of the Orang Asli families can be utilized for disaster preparedness and response. Thus, this study offers some solutions for mobilizing social capital for disaster preparedness through multi-stakeholder involvement, promoting the Orang Asli families’ participation in awareness programs, ensuring their access to resources, prioritizing local values and culture and finally proper planning and coordination for making Orang Asli families more disaster-resilient in Malaysia.