Borneo – Ecotourism and recycling initiatives Waste management is a big problem for the small islands, 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 – Village enhancement projects You’ll get involved in a number of projects to improve facilities for the rapidly growing population of Bongkud. Projects may include constructing a youth centre, improving the drainage system to ensure cleaner and healthier living and establishing a community farming programme to improve food security and encourage self-sufficiency within the village, without needing to transport supplies from larger towns. UN Sustainable Development Goals Zero hunger End hunger, achieve food security and improved nutrition and promote sustainable agriculture Good health and well-being Ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all at all ages Industry, innovation and infrastructure Build resilient infrastructure, promote inclusive and sustainable industrialization and foster innovation Climate action Take urgent action to combat climate change and its impacts
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. Since then we have built a permanent presence in the region, developing long-standing relationships with local communities, conservation organisations and PADI-certified dive operators over more than fifteen years.
How is the Borneo Scuba Expedition different from the Borneo Trek Expedition? Both expeditions include meaningful community project work and wildlife conservation activities in Sabah. The Borneo Scuba Expedition adds a structured scuba diving experience, where students have the opportunity to complete their PADI Open Water Scuba Diving qualification in the warm biodiverse waters off Borneo’s coast. It is ideal for students looking to combine impactful expedition work with an internationally recognised diving qualification.
Do students need prior scuba diving experience to join the Borneo Scuba Expedition? No prior diving experience is required. Students must be able to swim at least 100 metres confidently. Dive theory for the PADI Open Water qualification is completed online before departure. All in-water training in Borneo is delivered by PADI-certified instructors, with thorough safety briefings, small group ratios and professional supervision throughout every session.
What kind of project work will students do on the Borneo Scuba Expedition? Students work on a combination of community development and environmental conservation projects. This can include helping to build classrooms and community buildings, installing water storage systems and taking part in habitat conservation and regeneration. All projects are identified alongside local community leaders and our long-term Bornean partner organisations, ensuring the work addresses genuine needs and creates lasting sustainable impact.
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, which means our safety standards, accommodation and welfare arrangements are under our direct control at all times. All diving activities are delivered by qualified PADI instructors to strict safety standards, and 24/7 in-country support is in place throughout the expedition. We follow UK FCDO travel advice and hold comprehensive risk management procedures reviewed before every departure.
What’s included in the Borneo Scuba Expedition cost? The cost covers international flights, accommodation at our permanent camp, all meals, in-country transport, project materials, leadership and staff costs, travel insurance, orientation and language lessons, 24-hour emergency support and PADI Open Water scuba instruction including certification fees. Personal spending money, visas, vaccinations, kit and travel to a UK airport are not included.
How fit do students need to be for the Borneo Scuba Expedition? Students do not need to be elite athletes, but a good general level of fitness is important. Community project work involves physical activity including construction, digging and conservation tasks in a tropical climate. All activities are supervised by experienced staff and students are supported to work at a pace appropriate for them. For the scuba element, students must be able to swim 100 metres comfortably.
Where will students stay during the Borneo Scuba Expedition? Students stay at Camp Borneo, our own permanent camps in Sabah, Malaysian Borneo. Our camps include traditional longhouse-style accommodation with beds, toilets and shower facilities. Because we own and operate our own camps, we can maintain consistent standards of welfare and security throughout your expedition.
