Long ago, during migrations in search of new places for settlement, the M’nong, Ede, Bahnar, Xe Dang, J’rai, Ko Ho, Ma along with other ethnic groups came upon the Central Highlands - a region of forests remarkably rich in natural resources. From that moment, communities closely attached to the forest and dependent upon it for subsistence gradually emerged.

Within this habitat, the peoples of the Central Highlands shaped a system of cultural values rooted in woodland life plus swidden-based farming practices. Forests as well as forest land functioned not merely as essential resources, but equally as spaces nurturing community cohesion while guiding the behavioral norms of upland residents.

Ethnic minority officials from the Central Highlands reportng their achievements before the Ho Chi Minh Monument in Gia Lai Province.

With the Party’s presence, ethnic minority communities in the Central Highlands joined the entire nation in resisting common enemies while progressing toward socialism, passing through successive social stages. Progressive social change created fresh needs, such as the quest for knowledge, shifts in mindset, alongside encouragement of dynamism and creativity.

After national reunification, these communities were genuinely released from the long shadow of poverty and backwardness, becoming citizens of an independent nation with equal opportunities for advancement among fellow ethnic groups. The State introduced programs supporting settled cultivation plus residence, enabling people to relinquish shifting farming customs, stabilize daily life, then strive for prosperity. Numerous communities gradually adjusted perceptions, adopted modern economic thinking, subsequently organizing life in more civilized and progressive ways.

At present, in ethnic minority regions of the Central Highlands, many individuals have found success through self-initiated shifts in awareness, renewed approaches to work, plus the establishment of sustainable livelihoods. In particular, young ethnic minority entrepreneurs who prosper in production or business have inspired their communities with positive examples. They skillfully utilize ancestral cultural heritage for successful tourism initiatives, while drawing upon local strengths for business activities that raise household incomes as well as support community progress.

Local people preparing traditional dishes to serve visitors.

Within their own villages, they continue daily growth in the resolve to establish careers, reshape thinking along with working methods, thereby creating lives marked by prosperity and happiness.

Translated by HAI LOAN