Nine Australian meetings planners were touched by the once in the lifetime opportunity to launch the “Heart to Heart Orangutan Encounter” which was a highlight of their MICE familiarization trip to Malaysia organized by Tourism Malaysia’s Sydney office.

After witnessing the launch of the new program by Sarawak Forestry in collaboration with Sarawak Convention Bureau, the group were given a task by the ranger, either to prepare daily food, clean up the night cages or construct new play things. The group were really passionate and energized by the opportunity to help train the Orangutan.

Social responsibility

In launching the new program, Sarawak Convention Bureau Chief Executive Officer, Jill Henry commented: “Clients now days are looking to do more than just hand out charitable donations to meet their corporate social responsibility obligations. The plight of endangered Orangutans touches the heart of people from around the world and this program enables companies to give their staff a unique opportunity to volunteer in support of Orangutan conservation as part of their Borneo experience.”

Through their five-day program from 8th to 12th July 2009 , the meeting planners witnessed the semi-wild Orangutan at Semenggoh Wildlife Centre followed by a night stay at the Sarawak’s most beautiful golf course, Borneo Highlands Resort where they enjoyed playing golf and experienced the jungle spa. The next day, the meeting planners went to nearly completed Borneo Convention Centre Kuching where they were impressed by the roof shaped like a leaf to collect the rain water for use in the Centre. For lunch, they headed to Kuching Hilton to enjoy the best view of waterfront and went to Sarawak Museum for cocktail with “Night in the Museum” theme followed by dinner at Merdeka Palace Hotel & Suites.

Unforgettable experience

The fitting finale for the group was the Rainforest World Music Festival located at Sarawak Cultural Village where 7 international bands were performing. The group left next day with the unforgettable experience with the Orangutan and sound of rainforest in their heart.

This is no monkey business, but just a great idea for your next social programme during your conferences.