Gain Practical Conservation Skills in Borneo
Set foot in the middle of the tropical rainforests of Borneo on a life-changing Borneo conservation internship in Tawau Hills, East Sabah. This action-packed experience places you at the heart of a passionate local non-governmental organisation, where you will contribute to real conservation work through our specialised “4 E’s” framework: Education, Enforcement to reduce hunting, Enrichment of Habitat, and a sustainable Economy. You will gain valuable conservation skills by restoring habitats, engaging communities, supporting eco-tourism, and assisting in wildlife rescue efforts, all while working alongside experienced conservationists and other experts. Moreover, you will live in one of the world’s most biodiverse ecosystems. Ultimately, this is a unique opportunity to work where your efforts directly protect and restore endangered species and their home.
Your responsibilities & learning opportunities
As a Borneo conservation internship participant, you will take part in diverse local projects and initiatives, including:
- Tree planting: Supporting the forest restoration project, which aims to connect fragmented areas in Tawau Hills.
- Education: Assisting in workshops and helping educate future generations about local wildlife, environmental threats, and how to make a positive impact.
- Conservation Tourism: Supporting the team in promoting sustainable tourism that benefits both wildlife and local communities.
- Wildlife Rescue Efforts: Playing a role in animal rescue efforts under supervision, protecting species from threats such as illegal trade and habitat destruction.
- Academic Support: We support your academic assignments with qualified on-site mentors who will guide your learning.
Please get in touch if you have any questions
[email protected]
♥ FULL-TIME, VOLUNTEER BASIS
♥ DURATION: 4+ WEEKS
♥ LOCATION: TAWAU HILLS, SABAH, BORNEO
♥ STUDY SUPERVISION available
♥ US$595 / 4 weeks (ACCOMMODATION)
♥ US$1,190 / 8 weeks (ACCOMMODATION)
* US$150 per additional week after 8 weeks
Uncover the Magic of Tawau Hills, Borneo
Deep in the lush rainforests of East Sabah, Borneo, lies Tawau Hills Park – a biodiversity hotspot and a conservation sanctuary. Imagine towering dipterocarp trees, hidden waterfalls, and steamy volcanic hot springs that create a home for an astonishing range of wildlife, from hornbills and orangutans to clouded leopards and colugos.
Tawau Hills Park is a model for preservation, maintaining thousands of hectares of pristine rainforest, ensuring the ecosystems stay whole for many generations to come. Furthermore, conservation initiatives, such as habitat restoration and anti-poaching monitoring, have a key role in the future of this delicate ecosystem.
As a result, Tawau Hills offers you a unique opportunity to contribute meaningfully to the protection of one of the most vibrant and irreplaceable rainforests on Earth!
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EMPLOYMENT CONDITIONS 
- This wildlife rescue internship is on a VOLUNTEER basis.
- Due to the nature of the work (long hikes and jungle treks), there are no fixed working hours. You will follow the same work schedule as the local team members.
- You can earn academic credits by completing assignments supported and guided by qualified mentors tailored to your study level and field.
- Interns who stay for eight weeks or more have the opportunity to spend time at other project sites, where they take part in activities such as mammal watching, herping, and nocturnal wildlife tracking.
ACCOMMODATION
- You will need to book your own travel to Tawau airport.
- Transfers to and from the airport are included in your fee.
- Accommodation is in a lodge and research centre. A private room is available for an additional Rm 1,000. Facilities include a shared bathroom, a cold-water shower, and a Western-style toilet.
- Basic amenities, such as blankets, pillows, towels, and power sockets, are provided.
- A communal kitchen is available for volunteers to prepare their own meals.
- NOT INCLUDED: Flights, personal insurance, visa, and food.
