Borneo – Ecotourism and recycling initiatives Waste management is a big problem and the natural environment is suffering as a result. You’ll work with a local NGO on a recycling centre which gives local people a place to recycle plastic waste so it doesn’t end up on the beaches. You may also participate in constructing eco-tourism stalls and structures to raise awareness of environmental issues. UN Sustainable Development Goals Quality education Ensure inclusive and equitable quality education and promote lifelong learning opportunities for all 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
Borneo – Habitat conservation Batu Puteh is an incredible haven for a large majority of Borneo’s wildlife including orangutans, elephants and proboscis monkeys, and is one of the world’s most important natural habitats. However, it’s also one of the most threatened. You’ll get involved in activities to help safeguard this wildlife paradise for future generations by helping to tackle deforestation. UN Sustainable Development Goals Climate action Take urgent action to combat climate change and its impacts Life on land Protect, restore and promote sustainable use of terrestrial ecosystems, sustainably manage forests, combat desertification, and halt and reverse land degradation and halt biodiversity loss
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, long-standing community partnerships, PADI-certified dive operators and established conservation relationships including our work protecting orangutan habitat near Sepilok.
What community project work is included on the Borneo Scuba Expedition? Students take part in community project work at Camp Borneo, which could include helping to build classrooms, constructing and refurbishing community buildings and installing water storage systems. Whichever project initiative students work on, the focus is on working hand in hand with local people to tackle real needs. Evenings include language lessons and cultural dance sessions with the local community.
Do students need prior scuba diving experience to join the Borneo Scuba Expedition? No prior diving experience is required. Students have the chance to earn a PADI Open Water Scuba Diving qualification, beginning with a full briefing from dive instructors covering theory and practical lessons. Students then progress to open water dives, with the chance to see an array of colourful marine life. PADI is the world’s leading scuba diving training organisation and the Open Water certification is recognised internationally.
What conservation and wildlife experiences are included in the Borneo Scuba Expedition? Students spend time at an environmental camp, learning about the Borneo jungle and the challenges faced in this important habitat, home to many species including orangutans. Project work focuses on regenration of the area by growing and replanting native trees. Students also visit the famous Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre to see orangutans up close in their natural habitat, and the Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre, the only one of its kind in the world, where they learn about the conservation work taking place to protect these unique bears.
Is the Borneo Scuba 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 Camp Borneo in Sabah, giving us direct oversight of safety, accommodation and welfare at all times. All diving is delivered by PADI-qualified instructors to strict safety standards. 24/7 emergency support is in place throughout and we follow Smartraveller guidance (smartraveller.gov.au).
What is included and excluded in the Borneo Scuba Expedition cost? Included: international flights, accommodation across all phases including Camp Borneo, the coastal dive camp, the environmental camp and hostel accommodation in Kota Kinabalu, all meals, in-country transport, project materials, PADI Open Water Scuba Diving Course including certification fees, entry to the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre 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.
