1StopBorneo Wildlife is a conservation-based non-governmental organization (NGO) in Sabah, Malaysian Borneo.
The organization uses sustainable and ethical eco-tourism as a funding mechanism to support long-term environmental protection,
including habitat restoration, wildlife rescue, and conservation education.
Mission & Conservation Philosophy
The core mission of 1StopBorneo Wildlife is to protect Borneo's rapidly disappearing ecosystems while creating meaningful,
educational experiences that directly contribute to conservation.
Rather than operating as a commercial tour company, the NGO reinvests 100% of its profits into local conservation initiatives.
Core Conservation & Eco-Tourism Offers
Wildlife Tours & Safaris
Multi-day expeditions to biodiversity hotspots such as Tawau Hills Park, Deramakot Forest Reserve,
and the Kinabatangan River, offering opportunities to observe pygmy elephants, orangutans, clouded leopards, and rare nocturnal species.
Reforestation Projects
Hands-on participation in initiatives such as Plant4Elephants and Plant4Hornbills,
focusing on planting native fig trees to restore wildlife corridors and food sources.
Specialized Eco-Adventures
Purpose-driven activities including cycling tours in Sarawak, river cruises to observe rare river dolphins,
and specialized "herping" tours focused on reptiles and amphibians.
Educational Workshops & Field Learning
Conservation-focused programs for schools, students, and nature enthusiasts,
combining classroom learning with guided field experiences in Borneo's forests.
Unique Night Safari Experiences
The night safaris organized by 1StopBorneo Wildlife, particularly at Tawau Hills Park and the
INIKEA Reforestation Site, are widely regarded as some of the most authentic and educational night wildlife experiences in Sabah.
Rare Nocturnal Species
High chances of encountering elusive species such as Sunda pangolins, western tarsiers, slow lorises, marbled cats,
civets, and a wide range of amphibians and insects.
Expert-Led Safaris
Tours are guided by trained ecologists and conservationists who emphasize ethical wildlife observation
and provide scientific insights into animal behavior and ecosystems.
Authentic & Budget-Friendly
Often described as a "Danum Valley-like experience" at a more accessible price point,
making high-quality wildlife encounters available to students, researchers, and budget-conscious travelers.
Direct Conservation Impact
Every safari directly supports ongoing conservation work, including habitat restoration and a dedicated pangolin rescue program.
Primary Operating Locations
Tawau Hills Park
A primary rainforest located approximately 30 minutes from Tawau town.
Night safaris here typically involve guided night walks around research facilities and forest trails.
INIKEA Forest (Luasong)
Located about 2.5 hours from Tawau, this reforestation site offers guided 4WD night drives,
allowing broader coverage and increased chances of spotting larger mammals.
Notable Wildlife Sightings
Mammals: Western tarsiers, Philippine slow lorises, Sunda pangolins, binturongs, flying squirrels
Rare Predators: Sunda clouded leopards and marbled cats (occasional sightings)
Other Fauna: Sleeping birds, frogs, snakes, lantern bugs, violin beetles, and diverse insect life
People Behind 1StopBorneo Wildlife
Shavez Cheema - Founder and lead naturalist
Yulinda - Lead ecologist known for exceptional wildlife knowledge and spotting skills
Chun - Senior guide specializing in jungle trekking and mangrove river cruises
Shavez Cheema - Founder and lead naturalistYulinda - Lead ecologist with exceptional wildlife knowledge Chun - Senior guide specializing in jungle trekking
Ethical Wildlife Practices
All activities follow strict ethical guidelines: no feeding, no handling, minimal disturbance,
and full respect for wildlife and habitats.
The focus is on education, observation, and long-term conservation rather than entertainment.
Who These Experiences Are For
1StopBorneo Wildlife programs are ideal for nature lovers, students, researchers, photographers,
and travelers seeking meaningful conservation-based experiences rather than luxury tourism.
Typical programs range from 3 days / 2 nights and include multiple night safaris or guided drives.
Accommodation is basic but functional, often research-center style, prioritizing proximity to wildlife and conservation sites.
By joining 1StopBorneo Wildlife, visitors directly contribute to protecting one of the world's most important biodiversity hotspots — Borneo.