With the current situation all over the world, COVID-19 has changed our lives drastically, forcing us to remould our daily routines and cope by improvising to move forward. Many of us are now at home to stay safe and healthy, to flatten the curve and prevent COVID-19’s spread. Being a responsible travel operator that’s passionate in providing meaningful adventures, we are temporarily halted from doing what we love which is showing travelers the beauty of our favorite destinations in Borneo. But, Sticky Rice Travel will be here when tourism is restored again, to bring you more adventures and give you memorable experiences once this is over. In the meantime, we want you to enjoy highlights of this region in the comfort and safety of your homes. As part of our #wewilltravelagain series, we are sharing informative and inspiring stories, photography, videography and more to keep you entertained during this time. In the first part of the series, we have a series of videos highlighting the nature wonders of Borneo captured over the years for you to watch. From Danum Valley, to Mount Kinabalu and Kinabatangan River, get to see why these places are some of the best places to visit in the world.
Danum Valley Conservation Area is a 130 million year old ancient rainforest, an incredible place to immerse in a journey of experiencing some of the finest wildlife and nature encounters of Malaysian Borneo. Take a peek of Danum Valley through mesmerizing scenes within the reserve as our nature guides Atteh and Mike talk about why it is a great place to see wildlife, and what makes it special. They also give a message on how tourism is one of the best ways to save the rainforest and our natural heritage.
Kennesh Manokaran is a wildlife conservation biologist. In this video, he speaks fondly of Kinabatangan River, one of his favorite places in Borneo for wildlife. It is the second longest river in Malaysia and is known for its remarkable biodiversity; there are different habitat types and ecosystems right next to each other here. From wildlife encounters to the best time to see animals, and photography – Ken shares what Kinabatangan River has to offer. He also talks about the complete treat of seeing Borneo Pygmy Elephants crossing the river and the magical sounds of the animal kingdom.
Aptly named as the Lost World of Sabah, Maliau Basin is one of Malaysia’s finest and pristine wilderness areas, encircled by a formidable escarpment. With glimpses into Maliau Basin, our nature guide Dean Jais mentions how this forest is perfect for jungle trekking. It is always a great experience for him, as he will never know what he will see. Dean also explains that this forest is a very important water catchment area, and has become a tributary to some of the longest rivers that we have here in Sabah, including Kinabatangan River.
Mount Kinabalu is the highest mountain in Malaysia, and is very sacred to the local people of Sabah. Nature guide Bedley who grew up very close to Mount Kinabalu at Bundu Tuhan, speaks about the journey to the summit and the beliefs of the local people. Climbers will see breathtaking landscapes along the way, as well as unique and endemic species of flora and fauna. Bedley also talks about the folklore surrounding Mount Kinabalu. Be amazed at the sights captured at this gem of Sabah in this video and gain an understanding of what Mount Kinabalu means to the people of Sabah.
Borneo is home to some incredible and unique wildlife found nowhere else in the world. With soothing music and intimate moments of Borneo wildlife, this video let’s you see some of the rarest, interesting and unique animals of this island. Having traveled numerously around Borneo over the years without failing to bring cameras, these are compilations of some of the wildlife we have captured on video. Get a close look at orangutans, banded kingfisher, colugo, rhinoceros hornbills, gibbons, Western tarsier, Bornean sun bear, Borneo pygmy elephants, and so much more.
Be sure to stay tuned for more exciting stuff in the #wewilltravelagain series. We hope all of you are well and healthy. Take care and stay safe!
