from 970€

Perfect 4.6rating (186)

Orangutan Wildlife Center

location
1 - 4 weeks  ·  Age 17 - 50+

rating  Perfect 4.6  · 
  Verified by Volunteer World
  Very high response rate

Highlights

  • Volunteer to be part of a vital mission, offering a safe haven for rehabilitated orangutans and sun bears
  • Contribute to the meaningful rehabilitation process of rescued animals, giving them a second chance at a life free from harm
  • Make a direct impact on conservation efforts by supporting the release of orangutans back into their natural habitat
  • Experience unforgettable moments with orangutans through close interactions like feeding and observing them
  • Expand your knowledge about these incredible animals and gain insights into their unique natural environment

Especially suitable

Age 17+
Singles
Couples
Groups
50+

About the program

Aid the rehabilitation and eventual release of orangutans by volunteering at this incredible wildlife centre, located in Malaysian Borneo.

Visit the award-winning Matang Wildlife Centre in Malaysian Borneo to aid conservation and protection of one of the world's most fascinating and enchanting species: the orangutan.

About the Program

Due to mass deforestation, mining and forest fires, orangutan habitats in Malaysia are depleting and are ...

About the program

Visit the award-winning Matang Wildlife Centre in Malaysian Borneo to aid conservation and protection of one of the world's most fascinating and enchanting species: the orangutan.

About the Program

Due to mass deforestation, mining and forest fires, orangutan habitats in Malaysia are depleting and are also under constant threat. As a consequence, the species is increasingly endangered. The Matang Wildlife Centre is a refuge for orangutans which have been left injured, orphaned or likewise, usually as a direct result of these threats. The centre works tirelessly to reverse this trend in a number of ways and is thoroughly enriched by the involvement of the volunteers. Taking part in this program allows you to actively participate in the efforts of the impressive Matang Wildlife Centre alongside its fantastic team, helping to improve the lives of the orangutans whilst working towards their future protection.

As a volunteer on this program, you will enjoy the incredible rainforest surroundings of Kubah National Park as you work alongside sanctuary staff, assisting in a number of tasks along the way. You will help to improve husbandry standards, provide enrichment for the orangutans, and assist with construction tasks among others.

Everyone involved with the Matang Wildlife Centre is dedicated to managing and promoting responsible tourism, with volunteering experiences like this one aiming to work in the best interests of the animals and environment. Your support will help the Matang Wildlife Centre to work towards its aims, and you'll also earn a lifetime of memories along the way.



Typical day

First Days 

You will need to arrive at Kuching Airport on the start date of your program between the hours of 7am and 5pm, where you will be met by a program representative in the arrivals hall and transferred to your first night's accommodation. On the first night there is a welcome dinner, where ...

Typical day

First Days 

You will need to arrive at Kuching Airport on the start date of your program between the hours of 7am and 5pm, where you will be met by a program representative in the arrivals hall and transferred to your first night's accommodation. On the first night there is a welcome dinner, where you will meet all of your fellow volunteers and the program facilitators. After breakfast the following morning, you and the rest of your group will take a private transfer to the Matang Wildlife Centre. Here, after settling in, you will meet the project staff and take a full tour of the centre.

Regular Days

Work varies on a day to day basis, as well as depending on the season and on how many volunteers are on site. However, typical tasks include the following:

Enrichment: 

A major part of this program is creating enrichment. This is the process of providing the animals with stimulating environments, items and surroundings designed to encourage and promote their natural behaviours. This will enhance their potential for release, as well as improve their quality of life while they still reside at the centre.

Husbandry:

Another big part of the work on this program is husbandry for the orangutans, sun bears, macaques, binturongs and other animals. This includes feeding the animals as well as cleaning the wildlife cages and enclosures; an essential part of any wildlife centre.

Construction:

Small construction tasks can also be part of this program as without such work, the centre would struggle to grow. Thanks to previous construction efforts, the centre has been able to accept more animals in the hopes of being able to rehabilitate and release as many as possible. In the past, volunteers have been involved with the building of aviaries, gibbon cages, feeding platforms in the forest, boardwalks around the park, and ranger stations in the national park.

Maintenance:

Due to the humid rainforest environment and a range of animal interaction, the maintenance of buildings and structures is an on-going task. You may be needed to help with painting, cleaning, varnishing and gardening, among other elements of maintenance - there is always work to be done!

Last Days

On the penultimate day of the program, you will enjoy a farewell BBQ at the sanctuary, before transferring back to the guest house in Kuching for your final night’s stay. Depending on your departure flight time the following day, you may have time for a lie-in or even to see Kuching one last time before you arrange your own transfer back to the airport or continue on with your travels. 


Free-time activities

During your time on this programme, you will receive two consecutive days off (usually Saturday and Sunday, though this cannot be guaranteed). As you will have most likely travelled a long way to Borneo, we always suggest taking advantage of the your spare time to explore the surrounding area, ...

Free-time activities

During your time on this programme, you will receive two consecutive days off (usually Saturday and Sunday, though this cannot be guaranteed). As you will have most likely travelled a long way to Borneo, we always suggest taking advantage of the your spare time to explore the surrounding area, including Kubah National Park and Damai Beach, either by yourself or with your fellow volunteers. 

You can also look at:

  • visiting a long-house
  • meeting the Iban tribe
  • visiting nearby markets and social and interactive activities with locals and researchers. Interaction with the local communities is always encouraged to strengthen local relationships and continue to aid human animal conflict.


Requirements

Requirements

Minimum Age: 17 years

In order to join the program you need to be at least 17 years old on the program start date.

Language Skills

You need to speak English (intermediate level)

Nationality Restrictions

No restrictions. Helping hands from all over the world are welcome.

Other Skills

The construction work undertaken on this orangutan program does involve physical labour, often in humid conditions, and so requires you to have a moderate level of fitness. The other tasks however are not particularly physically strenuous, but a fair level of fitness is advised. You do not need any specific skills or experience, just a commitment to the program and its aims, the ability to work as part of a team and an upbeat, positive attitude towards the program and orangutan conservation.

Time Commitment

Your helping hand will be required on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday

What's Included

What's Included

Services by The Great Projects

WHAT'S INCLUDED IN THE PRICE OF THE PROJECT?

  • A monetary contribution to the project itself
  • Private transfers from the airport on project start date
  • Full orientation and support from the project managers
  • Accommodation
  • Activities on the project site
  • Food allowance

WHAT'S NOT INCLUDED?

  • Any flights
  • Return airport transfer
  • Travel insurance
  • Visa
  • Soft drinks and all alcoholic beverages
  • Any additional trips undertaken other than in the planned itinerary

Airport Pickup at Kuching International Airport

You will need to arrive at Kuching Airport on the start date of your project between 7am and 5pm, where you will be met by a project representative in the arrivals hall and transferred by road to your first night's accommodation.

Accommodation

Matang Wildlife Centre provides ten houses for staff and volunteers to live in. Each house has two or three bedrooms, a communal living space, kitchen, toilet, shower and veranda area. There is a maximum of four to a house and rooms are based on twin-sharing. The houses feature mains electricity and a fan in each room. There are also showers, but please be aware there is no hot water. You will be staying in self-catered accommodations with basic kitchen appliances such as a gas hob (two-ring burner), fridge/freezer, kettle and toaster.
These wooden houses are original structures from the construction of the centre in 1997. They are government owned and have undergone precious little maintenance over their years of wear and tear in the jungle. Please do not expect shiny, new and pristine lodgings – expect well-used, jungle cabins and an authentic Bornean experience!

Food & Beverages

On the first night at the Guesthouse in Kuching, dinner will be arranged at a local restaurant. Lunch the following morning, before transferring to the sanctuary is paid for.
Whilst at Matang Wildlife Centre you will be responsible for preparing your food and drinks in the kitchen of the house in which you are staying. As part of the cost of the project you will receive a weekly allowance for food and water and weekly supermarket trips are also provided!

Internet Access

Limited access at the project site

What's NOT included?

What's NOT included?

Flight Tickets

The nearest airport is Kuching International Airport (KCH) in Kuching. We assist you to find cheap flights to Malaysia. FIND CHEAP FLIGHTS

Travel Insurance

Going abroad is an adventure and it is always best to be prepared. Sudden illness or injury, cancellation or theft - a travel insurance for Malaysia provides security and is a plus to have. GET A QUOTE

Vaccines

If you are intending to volunteer in Malaysia you should seek medical advice before starting your social journey. Check your required vaccinations for Malaysia. VACCINE CHECKER

Details on arrival

This project runs throughout the year and has possible durations of 7, 14 or 28 nights. 

Availability
Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

Program fees

1 week 1 day (min. stay) 970€
2 weeks 1 day 1,562€
4 weeks 1 day (max. stay) 2,434€
Average fees 717€/week

Program fees

717€ per week 1 - 4 weeks Age 17 - 50+

Payment methods

Visa Master Card Maestro American Express PayPal

NO CREDIT CARD FEES


Duration

1 - 4 weeks

Deposit

The deposit is simply to reserve your volunteer placement. Payments are handled by PayPal, our trusted global payment provider. If you don't have a PayPal account, you can also pay using a credit card.


Final Payment

Your final payment will be agreed with The Great Projects during the application process. Common solutions are either via bank transfer or a cash payment at the project site.


Meet your organization

The Great Projects

Perfect 4.6 rating (186 reviews)

Agency - founded in 2003

Verified by Volunteer World

  Very high response rate

Coordinated by

Lauren

Spoken languages: English

About the project

The Great Projects work with organisations worldwide to establish high standards in animal welfare and conservation within the responsible tourism sector.

Meet your organization

Looking to volunteer abroad with animals? Here at The Great Projects we believe that there is a better way to holiday. Our award-winning wildlife volunteering abroad with animals projects and signature tours are not only designed to provide truly unique and life-changing experiences for volunteering worldwide, but our donation and conservation pledges ensure that your travel will have a lasting and sustainable impact on some of the planet's most incredible and endangered species and the local communities which live alongside them.

It all began with The Great Orangutan Project in Malaysian Borneo and after a number of years working with local authorities, passionate project facilitators, and hard-working volunteers to create a sustainable, progressive, and effective project - The Great Projects decided to use the experiences and knowledge we had gained to expand our expertise to other projects in Asia, Africa, South America and Europe!

Now with over 35 projects, you can be confident in the fact that you’ll be able to volunteer with some of the world's most incredible wildlife species in completely breath-taking environments. From orangutans in the Bornean rainforest to whale sharks in the Indian Ocean; you’re sure to find something suited to your interests. What’s more, The Great Projects make sure that with us, volunteers are completely immersed into the heart of the matter, at site, delivering an experience like no other as you become familiar with the life of an animal keeper, game ranger, or wildlife conservationist.

Plus, every time someone volunteers with The Great Projects  in addition to their fee which covers accommodation, food, and transfers, we donate up to £350 to the project visited to help the project itself. Therefore, our ecotours and projects are not only designed to be an experience that you will remember for the rest of your life, but you will also join a project knowing that your travel truly does help to save endangered animals and the local communities with which they live alongside.

Here at The Great Projects, we believe that we should practice what we preach. We send volunteers to worldwide destinations on a range of truly unique and thoroughly worthwhile projects that make a real, sustainable difference to their causes. What’s more, The Great Projects provide them with dedicated UK-based staff that ensure volunteers have informative and friendly help throughout all stages of their experience, from initial enquiry to their return.

Through this, we can show volunteers that there is a better way to holiday. Our award-winning wildlife volunteering abroad with animals projects and signature tours are not only designed to provide truly unique and life-changing experiences for volunteering worldwide, but our donation and conservation pledges ensure that your travel will have a lasting and sustainable impact on some of the planet's most incredible and endangered species and the local communities which live alongside them.


Further, The Great Projects does not only aim to provide travel destinations that hold responsibility for animal welfare, but also to the environmental, economic and social impact of our conservation projects as a whole.

HEALTH AND SAFETY

Here at The Great Projects, we are completely dedicated to providing our volunteers with the utmost protection with regards to health and safety.

Adventurous travel always involves some degree of risk. Our priority is to keep you safe and protect you as much as possible whilst still giving you an authentic experience of life in your chosen destination.

We conduct extensive risk assessments to make sure we have identified potential hazards and done everything we can to reduce them and we make sure you have the information you need about the destination you are visiting and how to stay safe and healthy while you are out there. We also are partnered with Endsleigh Insurance who are able to offer volunteers comprehensive insurance for all of our projects.

186 reviews · rating4.6

Barbara Tily rating4.4

2023 at Orangutan Wildlife Center

Orangutans were what attracted me to visit Borneo, and then I learned I could get even closer to observe them by volunteering and I knew this was something I had to do ! Sadly I was only able to do a one week stint which gave me a taste and left me wanting more ! It is no walk in the park, it's ...
Sharon Evans rating5

2017 at Orangutan Wildlife Center

This was a rewarding and enriching exerience. The staff at Matang Centre were very supportive, informative and very professional in terms of the work with the animals at the centre and all workers including volunteers. I was able to provide input into the day to day needs and care of the animals in ...
Marsha rating4.8

2015 at Orangutan Wildlife Center

Far too many amazing memories, I was surprised how much I fell in love with the Sun Bears especially Karmele, she touched my heart. How intelligent & funny the Orangutans are & my favourite moment was trecking into the jungle to witness 4 juvenile Orangs climbing freely in the trees in the jungles ...
Sinead rating4.6

2013 at Orangutan Wildlife Center

This summer I spend 4 weeks volunteering at the Orangutan Project in Malaysian Borneo. I was part of a fantastic team and we worked hard - scrubbed, hosed, fed, painted, mixed some concrete - but seeing projects, small and large, progressing and in some cases beeing completed was hugely rewarding. ..
Sarah Dunn rating1.6

2024 at Elephant Conservation

To view these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat is truly an amazing experience! Interaction with the local community was also incredible. However the staff & Field Centre is not terribly welcoming, not good at sharing important information, and lacking energy. Nothing like it’s ...
Petra Noordanus rating5

2024 at Wildlife Sanctuary Supporter

My experience with The Great Project is very good! I had a great time at Naankusé Wildlife Sanctuary. Everything was well organized and when we had changes to our arrival time at the last minute, this was arranged immediately. I recommend The Great ...

Location

Asia > South East Asia > Malaysia > Sarawak

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