About Us

Preserving Indigenous heritage while supporting communities through culture, healthcare, and education.

Who We Are

YKOA is a Malaysian non-profit organisation founded in 2002 by the late Datuk Antony Ratos — Malaysia’s pioneering researcher and archivist of Orang Asli art and culture.
Today, guided by his family, the foundation continues his legacy through heritage preservation and community outreach, focusing especially on interior and rural Indigenous populations.
The foundation connects donors’ generosity with individuals’ energy, ideas, and time, striving to make a meaningful and lasting impact in Indigenous communities. Committed to protecting, preserving, and celebrating the cultural identity and heritage of the Orang Asli in Malaysia, the foundation plays a vital role in fostering positive change and empowerment within these communities.

Our Goal is Building a Sustainable Future for Indigenous Communities

Our goal is to grow into a year-round organisation capable of delivering regular healthcare outreach, preserving Indigenous heritage, expanding educational opportunities, and supporting long-term community development throughout Malaysia.

With sustainable funding and strong partnerships, we aim to reach more communities while protecting the cultural legacy of future generations.

Help Us Preserve Heritage and Strengthen Communities

How We Work Every Programme Begins with Community Support

YKOA does not receive fixed annual funding or maintain a full-time operating team.

All our activities are project-based, and every mission depends on:

Donor Contributions
Individual donations help fund healthcare missions, cultural preservation, and community outreach programmes.
Corporate CSR Support
Corporate partnerships enable us to expand our impact through meaningful community and heritage initiatives.
Grants
Grant funding supports the delivery of essential programmes that benefit Indigenous communities across Malaysia.
Volunteer Specialists
Healthcare professionals, educators, and volunteers generously contribute their expertise to every mission.

OUR FOUNDER

Dr Andre Ratos — A Pioneer of Indigenous Heritage Preservation

Today, Dr. Andre Ratos, a dedicated activist, is unwavering in his commitment to carry forward his late father’s enduring legacy. Collaborating closely with his esteemed colleagues on the board of directors, Datin Pearl Jai Mohan and Datuk Wong Yew Kai, they collectively oversee the foundation’s operations.

Why Your Support Matters

Indigenous communities often live in remote, underserved areas with limited access to healthcare and shrinking cultural resources. Sustainable funding will allow YKOA to:

expand regular healthcare missions
preserve disappearing cultural traditions
support Indigenous children and the elderly
scale community training programmes
digitise and protect the Ratos Heritage Archive
FOUNDER

Dr Andre Ratos

A Pioneer of Indigenous Heritage Preservation

Today, Dr. Andre Ratos, a dedicated activist, is unwavering in his commitment to carry forward his late father’s enduring legacy. Collaborating closely with his esteemed colleagues on the board of directors, Datin Pearl Jai Mohan and Datuk Wong Yew Kai, they collectively oversee the foundation’s operations.

Their collective efforts encompass a wide range of cultural initiatives, educational programs, and skill development workshops. These endeavors are geared towards the noble goal of safeguarding and disseminating the rich traditions, arts, and crafts that form an intrinsic part of the Orang Asli culture.

Dr. Ratos aspires to make his unique contribution, ensuring the long-term sustainability of initiatives that empower and preserve the distinct traditions of the Orang Asli. His ultimate aim is to foster greater cultural understanding and appreciation, bridging the gap between communities and promoting harmony.