Sepilop Orangutan Conservation Project in Malaysia

Are you ready to embark on an adventure of a lifetime? As a participant  you’ll have the unique opportunity to work in both the In-Doors and Out-Doors areas, contributing to the rehabilitation and care of our beloved orangutans.

Location: Sepilok, Malaysia
Duration: Join from 5 weeks

You can join this project from a minimum of 5 weeks.

Start Dates:
August 27, 2023
September 24, 2023
October 29, 2023
November 26, 2023
December 31, 2023
January 28, 2024
February 25, 2024
March 31, 2024
April 28, 2024
May 26, 2024
June 30, 2024
July 28, 2024
August 25, 2024
September 29, 2024
October 27, 2024
November 24, 2024

Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of wildlife conservation, as this exceptional project aims to safeguard and nurture the magnificent orangutans and their precious habitats. By lending your efforts to various conservation initiatives, you’ll play an integral role in protecting, nurturing, and rescuing these awe-inspiring, intelligent, and gentle creatures.

Picture this: an idyllic setting, a moment suspended in time, where you can embark on a transformative journey. Not only will you gain invaluable hands-on experience, but you’ll also make a positive impact on the world around you. This is your chance to leave an indelible mark, both on your personal growth and in the preservation of these marvelous orangutans.

Moreover, this adventure offers an exceptional opportunity to immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of local culture and tradition. Interact with individuals from diverse backgrounds and nationalities, forging meaningful connections and broadening your horizons. It’s an experience that transcends borders, creating lifelong memories and friendships.

Are you ready to seize the moment, to witness firsthand the wonders of orangutan conservation? Join us on this extraordinary journey, where you’ll contribute not only to the well-being of these remarkable creatures but also to your own professional development. Together, let’s make a difference and lend a helping hand in safeguarding the wildlife treasures that are the orangutans.

Welcome to our extraordinary orangutan program, where our mission is to raise awareness, prevent extinction, preserve habitats, and empower students and participants to understand the vital role orangutans play in the delicate balance of our ecosystem. Together, we will lend a helping hand to injured and rescued orangutans, ensuring their well-being and securing their future for generations to come.

Our program is driven by a deep commitment to these magnificent creatures and the imperative to safeguard their existence. Through immersive experiences and educational initiatives, we aim to ignite a passion for orangutan conservation within each participant. By understanding their significance in the food chain and the broader ecosystem, we can actively contribute to their protection.

One of our key objectives is to create a lasting impact by providing support and assistance to injured and rescued orangutans. These incredible beings deserve our compassion and care, and through our dedicated efforts, we aim to ensure their rehabilitation and eventual return to their natural habitats.

At the heart of our program lies the desire to preserve orangutans for future generations. By coming together and taking action now, we can guarantee that these intelligent creatures continue to thrive in the years to come. Their unique presence enriches our world, and it is our responsibility to protect and cherish them.

Join us on this inspiring journey of awareness, conservation, and preservation. Together, let’s make a difference and secure a brighter future for orangutans, our ecosystem, and the generations yet to come.

The itinerary is divided into two segments. For the first segment, the participants will arrive in Kota Kinabalu, spend the first 2 days in Kota Kinabalu to rest after a long journey and attend an induction by Country Manager, followed by CAN (Culture, Adventure, and Nature) activities in Kiulu. For the second segment, beginning of the second week, the participants will be flown to Sandakan and divided into 2 groups to cover both in-doors and out-doors areas on 2-week rotational basis.

Aims & Objectives

The aims and objectives of this orangutan program is to spread awareness about these intelligent creatures, prevent them from going extinct, conserve their habitat, provide opportunity for students and participants to study the importance of orangutans in the food chain and in the ecosystem, provide help and support for the injured and rescued orangutans and not but the least to preserve these species for future generations.

Your work as a participant at the center is divided into two areas; In-Doors and Out-Doors. Each of the work areas is described below.

The Indoor Nursery

This area looks after the infants, from just a few months to around four years old. The babies stay in the sleeping area. Possible duties include:

Transfer infant orangutans from the sleeping cages to the playing cages
Clean the sleeping area
Prepare food for the infants (peeling bananas, making formula milk)
Feed the babies with bottled formula drink
Distribute bananas to infant orangutans
Give special attention and care for the sick infants
Transfer orangutans back to the sleeping cages
Clean the indoor nursery area
NOTE: participants may have the chance to work ‘hands-on’ with the orangutans, however, a strict policy of minimum human contact will be applied – this is to minimize the humanisation of orangutans. Too much human contact will hamper the rehabilitation process of the orangutan.

The Outdoor Nursery

This area is home to the juveniles, generally aged between five and eight years old. These orangutans are fed at the nursery and on the tourist platform. Their food is taken to different platforms to ensure that they learn to search for their food. This ensures the orangutan does not become reliant on food being at a particular platform each day. Possible duties include:

Collect bananas from the storeroom and take them via wheelbarrow to the nursery.
Sweep leaves from surrounding paths and clean the nursery area.
Feed the orangutans at the outdoor nursery.
Assist the rangers by carrying bananas to the tourist platform (done twice daily)
Complete the observation sheet on orangutans that attended the feeding platform.

NOTE: When working in this area there is plenty of time for observation of the orangutans in their natural surroundings.

On the other hand, in taking the programs, it is required that you must:
Have a genuine interest in wildlife/orangutan conservation;
Be between the ages of 18 and 50 without immobility;
Be proficient in English, regardless of their nationalities;
Submit your CV and travel history;
Fully vaccinated against CoronaVirus;
Received vaccinations against TB, Hepatitis, Tetanus, Rabies;
Attend mandatory quarantine of seven (7) days;
Take RT-PCR test 2 days before departure;
Take RT-PCR test on arrival; and
Wear Masks And Gloves everyday at work/

For further information, you do not have a problem in taking our orangutan program as:
You stay within the vicinity of the center and based on twin or triple sharing;
All meals are provided at the accommodation;
A local will be appointed as the coordinator of the program;
The price of the package covers Transportation, Meals, Accommodation;
Organized Trips, Work Equipment, Donation to Orangutan Wildlife Fund; and
Ground Handling Services.

Schedule

Get ready for an unforgettable journey with our orangutan program in Sepilok, Malaysia. Here’s a detailed overview of the exciting activities and experiences that await you:

Week 1

Sunday
Arrive at Kota Kinabalu Airport. Transfer to Kota Kinabalu. Check into Signal Hostel. Enjoy lunch or light refreshment before a short walk to be shown nearby facilities – i.e. pharmacy, ATM, shopping centre, phone shop
After having packed dinner, spend the night at the hostel.
Monday
Orientation
Go through the schedule, Q&A
Tuesday
After breakfast, by 0800am transfer to Kiulu for 4D3N to experience Culture, Adventure, and Nature of Borneo 0900am: ETA at the Rantau Camp Site
0930am: Demonstration of cooking traditional dishes
1200pm: Lunch with the locals
0130pm: Set up sleeping area – camping equipment will be provided
0230pm: Village Tour
0430pm: Free & Easy – you can unpack and explore the surrounding areas 0630pm: Dinner with local community
0700pm: Traditional Dance Performance – you will join in
0900pm: Rest
Wednesday
0700am: Breakfast
0800am: Demonstration of making traditional handicrafts
1000am: Start trekking to Kiulu Rainforest Park
1130pm: ETA at the park. Learn about medicinal plants and experience canopy walk
0230pm: Learn how to prepare local coffee
0400pm: Return to the camping site
0630pm: Dinner
0730pm: Sharing & review session
0900pm: Rest
Thursday
0700am: Breakfast
0800am: Gear up for White Water Rafting activity
0900am: Attend safety briefing conducted by the rafting guides
1230pm: Lunch by the river
0200pm: Attend safety briefing conducted by the Zipline instructor 0330pm: Return to the camping site
0630pm: Dinner
0730pm: Campfire. Sharing & review session
0900pm: Rest
Friday
0700am: Breakfast
0800am: Cleaning and pack things up
1000am: Transfer to Kota Kinabalu city
Packed Lunch & Packed Dinner
Saturday
Rest Day
Breakfast & Packed Dinner. You may go for island hoping (optional)
Sunday
After breakfast, transfer to KKIA to catch flight to Sandakan (Flight is included in the program fee)
Then transfer from Sandakan Airport to Sepilok
Enjoy refreshment/lunch in a local restaurant
Make several stops to purchase i.e. Wellington Boots, Gloves, Mask Dinner & Overnight at Sepilok Accommodation

Week 2 and onwards

Monday
Induction & Training at the Orangutan Centre
Tuesday to Friday
Working at Orangutan Centre
Saturday & Sunday
Rest Day
Breakfast & Dinner
Overnight at Sepilok accommodation

* This schedule can be changed and/or amended depending on weather conditions, local conditions, and unforeseen circumstances.

Please note that the schedule is subject to change based on weather conditions, local considerations, and unforeseen circumstances.

Location: Kota Kinabalu, Borneo, Malaysia
Start Dates: Start every Monday
Duration: 1 week – 12 weeks

Embark on an extraordinary adventure in Asia and immerse yourself in the captivating Malaysian culture. This is an opportunity of a lifetime to develop new skills, boost your confidence, and gain a deeper understanding of a different culture while making a meaningful impact.

Our care project in Sabah, Malaysia invites you to join us in providing care and support to an underprivileged and vulnerable community. The center we work with accommodates 40 residents, aged between 10 and 53 years old. Many of these young individuals face multiple disabilities and require constant attention, with some even lacking a proper home. The range of disabilities includes conditions like Cerebral Palsy, Epilepsy, Attention Deficit Disorder, Learning difficulties, Paralysis, and Deafness.

At the center, you will witness firsthand the transformative power of care and compassion. By dedicating your time and effort, you will contribute to their well-being and instill a sense of confidence and purpose in their lives. The program extends beyond the center, as we also engage in outreach work to remote communities and empower the youth in rural areas to become capable caregivers for those with disabilities.

Throughout the project, each child receives an Individual Education Plan tailored to their specific needs. This personalized approach ensures that they receive the necessary support and modifications to thrive academically and emotionally. From curriculum adaptations to specialized facilities, we aim to create an inclusive educational environment that allows students to reach their full potential.

This incredible opportunity is open to individuals of all nationalities who are proficient in English and above 18 years old. Whether you’re a physiotherapy student, a gap year adventurer, or someone seeking overseas work experience, this project offers a unique chance to make a difference while gaining valuable skills. The minimum duration is two weeks, providing ample time to immerse yourself in the culture and make a lasting impact.

As you embark on this remarkable journey, you’ll have the chance to explore Kota Kinabalu, enjoy city walks, and savor the local flavors. The program includes a well-structured itinerary that balances your volunteering commitments with opportunities for rest and relaxation. Please note that the schedule is subject to change based on weather conditions, local considerations, and unforeseen circumstances.

Join us on this remarkable care project in Sabah, Malaysia, and be part of a life-changing experience that will broaden your horizons, uplift spirits, and create lasting memories.

Location: Kota Kinabalu, Borneo, Malaysia
Start Dates: Start every Monday
Duration: 1 week – 12 weeks

Immerse yourself in a truly rewarding teaching experience amidst the serene rural village of Tamparuli, Sabah, where English language skills are in high demand. In this picturesque corner of Malaysia, you’ll have the chance to make a meaningful impact by teaching and guiding children in small groups, helping them practice conversational English. As you witness their confidence grow, you may even explore other subjects like Mathematics, Sciences, Sports, Drama, Arts, or Music if your interests align.

Malaysia, with its diverse offerings of both the Malaya Peninsula and the enchanting island of Borneo, serves as an ideal gateway to Southeast Asia. From the gleaming skyscrapers of Kuala Lumpur to the awe-inspiring rainforests and wildlife of Sabah and Sarawak, this country beckons with a wealth of sights and experiences. Sabah, in particular, is a land of tropical rainforests, pristine sandy beaches, the majestic Mount Kinabalu, and a mesmerizing array of marine and wildlife. It is one of the few remaining places on Earth where you can witness these incredible creatures in their natural habitats.

Throughout Sabah, a rich tapestry of ethnic and indigenous tribes, such as Dusun, Murut Rungus, Bajau, and Kadazan, contribute to the vibrant multicultural society alongside immigrant communities including the Chinese, Indian, Filipinos, and Indonesians. While the official language is Bahasa Malaysia, English is widely spoken due to the amalgamation of diverse religious and ethnic backgrounds.

The schools we collaborate with are nestled in a rural village setting, about an hour’s drive from Kota Kinabalu, the capital city. While English is taught in all schools, children in rural areas lack the opportunity to practice the language outside the classroom, resulting in limited exposure to pronunciation and speech. Your presence as a native English speaker proves invaluable, helping them enhance their language skills and improve their grades. With approximately 360 pupils in total, spanning Kindergarten, Primary, and Secondary levels, teaching opportunities can be arranged across any of these areas.

Typically, you’ll be expected to teach around 10 to 15 lessons per week, but you’ll soon find yourself in high demand wherever you go! Initially, you’ll assist the English teacher by guiding small groups in conversational English. As your confidence grows, you may express interest in contributing to other subjects like Mathematics, Sciences, Sports, Drama, Arts, or Music if you have a passion for them. If you feel comfortable with teaching, the teachers will be delighted to have you lead the entire class. You can anticipate teaching approximately 10 to 15 hours per week, making a significant difference in the lives of these eager learners.

Don’t worry if you lack formal teaching qualifications; your participation is about providing valuable assistance in any way possible. Whether it’s offering native English pronunciation or providing additional support in various academic subjects or computer literacy, your contributions will be greatly appreciated. It is well understood that you are not a qualified teacher, but your willingness to help is what truly matters.

Your journey begins with your arrival at Kota Kinabalu International Airport, followed by a delightful city walk exploring nearby attractions. An introduction by the Country Manager sets the stage for an unforgettable adventure. Accommodation will be provided throughout your stay, offering a comfortable and welcoming retreat.

The schedule encompasses a balanced mix of teaching, rest days, and opportunities to explore the local surroundings. It is important to note that the schedule may be subject to changes due to weather conditions, local considerations, and unforeseen circumstances, ensuring a flexible and adaptable experience.

Join us on this remarkable teaching project in the heart of Tamparuli, Sabah, and become a cherished part of these children’s lives. Together, we can make a lasting difference,