Borneo – Village enhancement projects You’ll get involved in a number of projects to improve facilities for the rapidly growing population of Bongkud. Projects may include constructing a youth centre, improving the drainage system to ensure cleaner and healthier living and establishing a community farming programme to improve food security and encourage self-sufficiency within the village, without needing to transport supplies from larger towns. UN Sustainable Development Goals Zero hunger End hunger, achieve food security and improved nutrition and promote sustainable agriculture Good health and well-being Ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all at all ages Industry, innovation and infrastructure Build resilient infrastructure, promote inclusive and sustainable industrialization and foster innovation Climate action Take urgent action to combat climate change and its impacts
Borneo – Community centre construction Community centres (‘Balai raya’ in Malay) are commonplace in Sabah and form an integral part of village life. A well-used and maintained community hall is often a good indicator of the health of the community itself. You’ll be getting involved in a long-term project to construct a community centre for the local community, who currently do not have one. UN Sustainable Development Goals Decent work and economic growth Promote sustained, inclusive and sustainable economic growth, full and productive employment and decent work for all Industry, innovation and infrastructure Build resilient infrastructure, promote inclusive and sustainable industrialization and foster innovation
How long has Camps International been running expeditions to Borneo? Camps International was founded in 2002 and opened Camp Borneo in Sabah, Malaysian Borneo in 2009. For over fifteen years we have built a permanent presence in the region with experienced locally based teams and long-standing relationships with communities and conservation organisations. Our flagship camp at Bongkud and our established jungle partnerships with local organisations such as KOPEL give school groups genuine confidence in our depth of commitment to Borneo.
What community project work will students do on the 3-week Borneo Expedition? Students complete community project work at two locations. At Camp Tinangol, students work alongside local people and skilled tradespeople on projects providing much-needed facilities to the village, gaining an understanding of the challenges faced by the community and the impact of their work. At Camp Bongkud, project work focuses on improving infrastructure and facilities for the rapidly growing local community. All projects are co-designed with local community leaders and our long-term partner organisations to address genuine locally identified needs and create lasting sustainable change.
What conservation and wildlife experiences are included in the 3-week Borneo Expedition? The conservation element of the programme is a standout feature of the 3-week expedition. Students spend time at a jungle camp in Batu Puteh working with KOPEL, a local environmental organisation, on vital forest regeneration activities including seed collection, forest restoration and ethnobotany. Students also go on a river safari with the chance to spot Borneo wildlife in its natural habitat, and visit the Sepilok Orangutan Sanctuary and the Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre in Sandakan to see these protected animals up close and learn about the conservation work being done to protect them.
What cultural experiences are included in the 3-week Borneo Expedition? Cultural experiences are woven throughout the programme. Students visit Kampung Sumangkap, known as the gong-making village, to learn how these important cultural musical instruments are made and may enjoy a live musical demonstration. On arrival at Camp Bongkud students are welcomed with a cultural performance by the local community, and the journey there includes a stop at the Kundasang War Memorial to learn about the fate of British and Commonwealth soldiers during WWII. Evenings at both camps include cultural activities and sports with local community members.
Is the 3-week Borneo Expedition safe for school students? Yes. Camps International has operated in Borneo since 2009 with experienced permanently based in-country teams. We own and operate both Camp Tinangol and Camp Bongkud in Sabah, giving us direct oversight of safety, accommodation and welfare at all times. The jungle phase at Batu Puteh is delivered in partnership with KOPEL, a trusted and established local organisation. 24/7 emergency support is in place throughout and we follow Smartraveller guidance (smartraveller.gov.au).
What is included and excluded in the 3-week Borneo Expedition cost? Included: international flights, accommodation across all phases including Camp Tinangol, Camp Bongkud, the jungle camp at Batu Puteh and hostel accommodation in Sandakan, all meals, in-country transport, project materials, entry to Poring Hot Springs, the Orangutan Sanctuary and the Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre, leadership and staff costs, travel insurance, orientation and language lessons and 24-hour emergency support. Not included: personal spending money, visas and vaccinations.
