Family Volunteering with Indigenous Communities on Conservation Projects in Borneo

  Malaysia

Rural

Durations of Program: 1-2 weeks and 2-4 weeks
Typical Duration of Program: 2-4 weeks
Dates: Visit the GVI website for upcoming start dates.

Description: Volunteering overseas as a family offers one of the most incredibly rewarding experiences for all involved. Voluntourism for families is a great way for families to experience exciting and new cultures together, while also doing something completely different in a safe and ethical way. Family volunteering allows your children to discover parts of the world they would probably never learn about at school in an in-depth way not possible on a normal vacation.

GVI is pleased to announce that all children under the age of 18 will receive a 1/3rd off the total price on all of our family volunteering projects.

Assist a local organization provide sustainable alternative sources of income for community members, whilst simultaneously protecting the rainforest and its wildlife. The program is located in Malaysian Borneo, on the Kinabatangan River which boasts some of the best wildlife in South East Asia. Volunteers may see gibbons, orangutans, proboscis monkeys, otters, Borneon pygmy elephants, langur monkeys, crocodiles and many spectacular bird species. The work is varied, physical, and depends on the needs of the community at the time. The majority of volunteers will assist with wetland lake restoration and forest habitat restoration which provides critical habitat, food and nesting areas for orangutans and other wildlife species. Other work may include developing nature interpretation trails, building work at the Eco-Camp and conducting basic wildlife surveys. It is also hoped that volunteers might help teach the local community English or IT skills.

How this program makes a difference:

This initiative aims to provide sustainable alternative sources of income for local indigenous people by increasing ecotourism opportunities. As well as this, volunteers will help to save and restore habitats for rare and threatened wildlife species, such as orangutans, gibbons, proboscis monkeys, elephants and otters, amongst others. Volunteers will help sustain ongoing habitat restoration work, such as forest habitat restoration and wetland lake restoration. These efforts provide critical habitats for food, movement and nesting structures, and link forest and wetland waterways.

* Please note due to the varying group dynamics of different families (for example the number of children and ages of children), each application is dealt with on a case-by-case basis. Please call us directly to discuss your family's volunteer travel requirements.

Highlights:
- Work with a pioneering local community dedicated to protecting the rain forest
- Live with a host family
- Observe incredible wildlife during your working day
- Explore the local area to sites such as Sepilok Orangutan Sanctuary, the Gomantong Caves and Sipadan Island

Cost in US$: From USD 1,390 for 2 weeks

Experience Required: no

This Program is open to Worldwide Participants. This Program is also open to Families and Individuals

Participants Travel to Malaysia Independently

Typically Participants Work Independently

Application Process Involves:

• Online Application plus Application Assessment

Global Vision International's Mission Statement: Global Vision International aims to promote the advancement of sustainable development through the creation of partnerships, promotion of local and global education, opportunities and via direct financial support. GVI remains committed to its local partners by ensuring they receive full credit for any research undertaken or achievements reached.

Year Founded: 1998