The incidence of neonatal jaundice among aborigines is increasing with the morbidity and mortality among this group are
well recognized. This study aimed to assess the knowledge and attitude status on neonatal jaundice among Orang Asli in
Sepang, Selangor. Cross-sectional study was conducted within two weeks in Kampung Orang Asli in Sg. Pelek, Sepang,
Selangor. A simple random sample of adults aged 18 years and above was selected. Data were collected by an interviewed
structured questionnaire. Overall, out of 152 residents, 67% were aware about neonatal jaundice. Majority of them were
female (72%), married (78.4%) and respondents who have children (86%). Among those who were aware, almost 68%
have good knowledge, in which 70% recognized jaundice by yellow discoloration on the body. High pitched crying (12.7%)
and not feeding (10.8%) were among symptoms they knew. Almost 50% of the respondents believed neonatal jaundice
may cause mental retardation. As for management of neonatal jaundice at home, majority of them (47%) will expose
the baby under the sun, 7.8% will take herbal medication whereas 2% will continue with breast feeding. Almost eighty
percent of the respondents will send their jaundiced baby to the hospital immediately, whereas 23% prefer management
by nurse at home. Although majority of respondents in Kg. Orang Asli Sg. Pelek have good knowledge & good attitude
on neonatal jaundice, some mothers are still likely to resort to self-treatment with potentially harmful therapies.