Why Do Nature Loving Expats Choose Borneo? A Hidden Paradise for Wildlife and Adventure
For expats who love nature, finding a place to truly connect with the wild is a dream. Imagine waking up to the sounds of the rainforest, cruising down rivers teeming with unique wildlife, and spotting orangutans in the wild. Welcome to Borneo—a place where expats find the perfect balance of adventure, tranquility, and conservation.
Why Borneo? A Dream Destination for Nature-Loving Expats
Borneo, the third-largest island in the world, is a biodiversity hotspot. Home to one of the oldest tropical rainforests on Earth, this island’s diverse ecosystem makes it one of the best places for wildlife enthusiasts. It is divided into Malaysian Borneo (which includes Sabah and Sarawak) and Indonesian Borneo, known as Kalimantan.
Expats from all over the world are drawn to Malaysia, particularly Sabah’s lush rainforests and Sarawak’s diverse cultural richness. The region offers:
- A stunning mix of urban and rural landscapes
- Rare and critically endangered species like orangutans and pygmy elephants
- Affordable living costs compared to Western countries
- A relaxed lifestyle surrounded by lush rainforests and stunning beaches
- A perfect tropical climate for outdoor adventures
Borneo is more than just a travel destination—it is a place to call home. Let’s explore why expats who cherish nature are choosing Malaysia’s most biodiverse region.
Encountering Orangutans in the Wild: A Life-Changing Experience
One of the biggest draws for nature-loving expats is the opportunity to see orangutans in the wild. These intelligent primates, found only in Borneo and Sumatra, are a symbol of conservation efforts in Southeast Asia.
The Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre, located right next to the Rainforest Discovery Centre in Sabah, is one of the best places to spot orangutans. This forest reserve provides a safe space for rescued orangutans to survive in the wild after rehabilitation.
What makes this experience unique?
- Unlike zoos, orangutans here roam freely, and every visit is different.
- The center is dedicated to eco-tourism and conservation.
- Some visitors have unexpected encounters with wild orangutans, a rare and breathtaking moment.
For expats who choose to live in East Malaysia, frequent visits to see orangutans become part of their lifestyle.
Kinabatangan River: The Amazon of Asia
For those who dream of wildlife safaris, the Kinabatangan River in Sabah is an absolute must-visit. This majestic waterway, stretching over 560 kilometers, is one of the most biodiverse ecosystems in Borneo.
Borneo’s ‘Big Five’ – What Can You See?
Many expats compare Borneo’s wildlife to Africa’s Big Five, but with a unique tropical twist:
- Orangutans in the wild – The kings of the rainforest canopy, swinging through ancient trees.
- Pygmy elephants – The world’s smallest elephant species, often seen by the riverbanks.
- Rhinoceros hornbills – One of the most iconic birds of Borneo, known for their striking beaks.
- Crocodiles – Lurking beneath the river’s surface, often spotted on boat safaris.
- Proboscis monkeys – Found only in Borneo, these critically endangered primates are famous for their long noses.
A Kinabatangan River safari is a bucket-list experience. Watching a herd of pygmy elephants cross the river or an orangutan building its nest for the night is unforgettable—even for expats who have been here for years.
The Sun Bears of Borneo: A Lesser-Known Treasure
While orangutans often steal the spotlight, nature-loving expats are also captivated by Borneo’s sun bears—the world’s smallest bear species.
The Borneo Sun Bear Conservation Centre (BSBCC) in Sepilok, Sabah is dedicated to rescuing and rehabilitating these endangered animals. Sun bears play a crucial role in Borneo’s biodiversity, helping maintain the delicate balance of the rainforest ecosystem.
Why do expats love visiting the BSBCC?
- Sun bears are a unique wildlife species, only found in Southeast Asia.
- The center provides a second chance for bears rescued from illegal captivity.
- Watching them climb trees and forage in their natural habitat is a heartwarming experience.
Night Safaris: Experiencing Borneo’s Wildlife After Dark
For those who think wildlife watching ends at sunset, think again.
Borneo’s tropical rainforests come alive at night, offering a completely different experience. A night safari is one of the most exciting ways to witness nocturnal wildlife in action.
What Can You See on a Night Safari?
- Baby crocodiles gliding through the water.
- Owls and night birds calling from the treetops.
- Macaques and slow lorises moving through the shadows.
- The glowing eyes of civets and other night predators.
The jungle at night is mysterious, thrilling, and unlike anything else in the world. Expats who love adventure often say night safaris are their favorite activity in Borneo.
Living in Borneo as a Nature-Loving Expat
Beyond its breathtaking wildlife, Borneo offers an amazing lifestyle for expats. Many choose to live in Malaysia long-term because of its unique blend of modern living and untouched wilderness.
Expats who settle in Kota Kinabalu, Kuching, or Sandakan enjoy:
- Affordable cost of living – Compared to Kuala Lumpur or Penang, Borneo offers an affordable yet comfortable lifestyle.
- Strong conservation efforts – Expats can support eco-tourism, volunteer with conservation projects, and live sustainably.
- Access to modern amenities – While Borneo is wild, cities like Kota Kinabalu and Kuching provide quality healthcare, international schools, and modern infrastructure.
- A welcoming local community – Malays, Chinese, and indigenous groups like the Iban, Kadazan, and Bidayuh make expats feel at home.
Whether you choose to live near the rainforest in Sabah or in a vibrant city like Kuching, Borneo offers a slower, more fulfilling way of life.
The Final Verdict: Why Do Nature Loving Expats Choose Borneo?
For expats who dream of a life surrounded by nature, adventure, and wildlife, Borneo is the ultimate destination.
From spotting orangutans in the wild to exploring stunning beaches and lush rainforests, every day feels like an adventure waiting to happen.