29/04/24 (Agence Europe) – On Monday 29 April, the European Union announced a three-year extension to its collaboration with the Malaysian not-for-profit organisation PACOS Trust, with a new European grant of €610,000 to promote the socio-economic and cultural rights of the indigenous people of Sabah through the ‘Empowering Indigenous Communities’ project. This initiative focuses on empowering indigenous peoples and defending their rights, particularly those of women and children. Activities include supporting independent media, combating child marriage, strengthening women’s political leadership and raising awareness of indigenous cultures and rights. In addition, as part of the International Decade of Indigenous Languages (2022-2032), campaigns, workshops and educational materials will be developed in local languages to preserve indigenous cultures. (PLD)