KUCHING: Deakin University has embarked on its 6th Borneo Social Enterprise Internship Programme (BSEIP), continuing its commitment to sustainability and community engagement in Sarawak.
Running from Jan 26 to Feb 14, the programme provides Australian students with hands-on experience in supporting local social enterprises and organisations such as Tanoti Craft, Heart Treasures and Sarawak Eco Warriors.
One of the programme leaders, Dr Katherine Barrand, highlighted the programme’s impact on both students and the local community.
“The programme emphasises the importance of real-world learning in encouraging sustainable solutions and supporting local communities.
“Through their volunteering work with various organisations, students have gained practical experience in plastic waste management, environmental conservation, community development, and working with non-government organisations,” she said.
Beyond their work with social enterprises, the students took part in several environmental initiatives.
On Jan 27, they conducted a 30-minute beach cleanup at Pasir Panjang, collecting over 60 kilograms of rubbish, including more than 260 plastic bottles.
The initiative aimed to reduce marine debris, promote responsible waste management, and maintain clean coastal areas.
A week later, on Feb 2, the group participated in a reforestation programme in Singai, Bau, planting over 90 native tree species in areas vulnerable to flooding and landslides.
The trees—including mangosteen, durian, rambutan, dabai, and cempedak—not only help stabilise the soil but also support biodiversity, carbon capture, and climate regulation, benefiting both the environment and local communities.
Meanwhile, representative of Sarawak Eco Warriors, Rene Chua, praised the students’ contributions.
“Having Deakin students involved brings fresh ideas and extra hands to our conservation work. Their enthusiasm and efforts on the ground really help push our projects forward and make a positive impact on the community,” she said.
As the programme nears its final week, participants are reflecting on the knowledge and skills gained—particularly in waste management, environmental advocacy, and community engagement.
Deakin University International Relations student, Adam Kemp said that he gained useful skills from this internship that he wouldn’t learn at home, such as interacting with communities face-to-face in a global context and using practical methods for advocacy and sustainability projects.
