| Aziz Idris |
NESTLED on the banks of Temburong River is the Sumbiling Eco Village (SEV), a community-based ecotourism destination that brings travellers closer to nature in a manner consistent with the local Iban villagers’ way of life.
The SEV provides the Iban villagers with the means of earning an income while promoting environmental conservation.
It started as a project by Bornoe Guide, founded in 2007 by Leslie Chiang Jin Kiong who envisioned a community-based tourism project that promotes awareness of sustainability – environmentally, socially, culturally and economically.
The SEV is listed under the Temburong Holiday Destination Package, which was recently introduced by Brunei Tourism under the Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism (MPRT).
Leslie told the Bulletin that Borneo Guide contributes the concept, funding, planning and management of the project, while the villagers contribute the manpower, outdoor and cultural expertise, as well as suggestions and ideas.
“Run as a social enterprise, SEV – through its tours and projects – puts the money that is earned back into the community. To date, we support 15 family members by providing them job opportunities such as trekking guides, boatmen, staff and crafts-women.
“We are also sponsoring two school students by funding their school fees, uniforms and books.”
He welcomed the listing of SEV under the Temburong Holiday Destination Package offered by Brunei Tourism, saying that the move will help Bruneians, especially first-timers, to know the tour agents that offer a wide list of ‘things to do’ in Temburong.
Enjoying lunch at Sumbiling Eco Village (SEV).
Relaxing on a long-boat (temuai) headed down river. – PHOTOS: AZIZ IDRIS AND BORNEO GUIDE
A local tour guide enlightens visitors on the medicinal use of a plant found at SEV.
“When the new (Temburong) bridge is completed, tourism in Temburong will definitely boom. Having such packages will boost the tourism industry as well as the economic climate in the district,” he added.
SEV has already been invited to several international conferences and travel fairs, as well as featured in international travel magazines and websites.
One of the most valuable lessons he learnt was during the Asean Ecotoursim Conference in Thailand when he visited several community-based tourism projects and incorporated some of their ideas into the SEV.
Last year, the SEV was acknowledged for its commitment to empowering local communities and educating visitors while preserving and enhancing the environment and culture in its daily operations at the AirAsia Foundation on Destination: GOOD – Asean Social Enterprise 2015.
In August 2016, SEV was selected as a venue for a training workshop for journalists who attended the Asia-Pacific Rainforest Summit.
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