In July, as part of the Turing Scheme funding, our students embarked on an unforgettable journey to Borneo in Malaysia, exploring its rich culture, breathtaking landscapes, and diverse wildlife. From cultural villages to lush jungles, here’s a glimpse into their trip.

The adventure kicked off with a visit to the Mari Mari Cultural Village (MMCV). Students were warmly welcomed by the village chief and took part in traditional ceremonies and activities, such as bamboo cooking and Montoku (rice wine) processing. They learned about the vibrant lifestyles of the indigenous tribes, including the Dusun, Rungus, and Murut, experiencing fire-starting, tattooing, and ethnic crafts, firsthand.

The group then travelled to the Tip of Borneo, where they marveled at the meeting point of the South China Sea and the Sulu Sea, a sight to behold after a day of cultural immersion. A stop at the Borneo Honeybee Centre and Sumangkap Village for traditional gong-making added to the day’s experience.

Day two took students to the Linangkit Cultural Village for an engaging cultural tour, where they were introduced to the traditional weaving of the Lotud tribe. The students even tried their hand at blowpipe activities and dressed in traditional costumes. After lunch, they cycled to Tembara Jetty, where they kayaked through mangroves, and learned traditional games like coconut shell walking.

Students had the opportunity to immerse themselves in local life with a homestay at Kiau Taburi, where they explored a pineapple farm, a stingless bee farm, and a traditional coffee-processing home. The day ended with a beautiful sunset and a cultural performance at a primary school by their hosts.