Mustafa Along

Kelantan-based activist Mustafa Along is a tireless advocate for environmental conservation and the rights of Malaysia’s indigenous communities. As the chairman and founder of the Indigenous People’s Network of Kelantan (JKOAK), Mustafa has galvanised thousands of Orang Asli villagers to defend their native customary lands from encroachments by logging, mining, and plantation companies, as well as policies enacted by the Kelantan state government.

Since 2015, Mustafa has played a key role in sustaining indigenous-led blockades aimed at protecting their ancestral forests, villages, and traditional way of life. On the legal front, he has spearheaded efforts to hold the Kelantan state government accountable, demanding recognition of indigenous land rights and challenging systemic neglect.

Despite his achievements, Mustafa has faced significant personal risks. He has been arrested multiple times and currently battles several lawsuits filed by corporations in retaliation for JKOAK’s resistance activities.