Meeting Our In-Country Team and Seeing Real Impact in Borneo

Written By Sarah Kroenert and Jackson Smith

Touching down in Kota Kinabalu felt like the start of something special. We were greeted by our in-country team, Abnar and Grey — our energetic and knowledgeable guides for the next five days. Their warmth and enthusiasm immediately set the tone for the journey ahead.

That first evening, we met our in-country manager, Mel, who welcomed us like family and took us to dinner with her office team. Over delicious local dishes, we gained insight into the heart of Camps International — how projects are run, challenges faced, and the passion that drives it all. Hearing their stories brought a whole new appreciation for the work happening on the ground.

The next morning, we travelled to Camp Tinangol, one of our permanent rural camps. We loved learning about their farm-to-table teachings and seeing the almost-complete community centre, which will soon host tribal courts and gatherings — no longer just in the village chief’s lounge room. It was a tangible reminder of how community-led projects can make lasting change.

At Camp Bongkud, affectionately known as our “mothership,” we were welcomed by Camp Manager Eve, whose pride in her village was infectious. She showed us how Camps International has helped build everything from volleyball courts to classroom furniture — even supporting English lessons that attract up to 40 students each afternoon. Her “day in the life” experiences give visiting students an authentic glimpse into rural Bornean life.

Next, we explored Kopel, a local co-op leading incredible reforestation efforts. We learned how they carefully select and nurture native trees before planting them deep in the jungle — lessons in patience, purpose, and environmental stewardship. That night, we slept in hammocks under the jungle canopy, joined a river safari, and even spotted a civet on a night walk.

After days in the wild, our night at Sepilok BnB felt like a treat — with monkeys leaping through the trees outside our windows. At the Rainforest Discovery Centre, we took a treetop walk and were lucky enough to see an orangutan and her baby lounging in the trees. Our final day took us to the Sepilok Orangutan Sanctuary, where we watched feedings and had a curious juvenile follow us along the boardwalk. Across the road at the Sun Bear Sanctuary, we met a rescued bear named Bongkud — fittingly, from the very village where our camp is based.

Throughout the trip, our in-country team shared their knowledge, humour, and deep love for their communities. We left Borneo feeling inspired and grateful — proud to see firsthand the difference these projects make and honoured to work alongside such dedicated people driving positive change every day.