LOCATION: KAMPUNG TABUNG, TAMAN NEGARA

Founded in 2015, Ecotourism & Conservation Society of Malaysia (ECOMY) is a non-governmental organization that is focused on sustainable ecotourism as the way forward to ensure that conservation values are upheld at all key natural heritage sites in Malaysia.

ECOMY is led by CEO and founder Mr. Andrew Sebastian, a well known personality in nature conservation, seasoned nature guide and subject matter expert in ecotourism and birdwatching. It is supported by some of Malaysia’s leading naturalists, guides, writers, academics, professionals and ecotourism personalities. ECOMY works towards uniting conservation, communities and sustainable tourism, promoting greater understanding and appreciation for nature, local society, and culture.

Their objectives include conserving Malaysia’s unique habitats, plants and wildlife, actively promoting and pursuing sustainable tourism as one key element in conservation, supporting like-minded local communities and initiatives and celebrating Malaysia’s unique wilderness and the unique features it supports.

2024 Project – Community Based Eco Tourism in Taman Negara

Under the 2024 MOF Sustainable Tourism Network and Island Waste Initiative (STNIWI) Project, EcoMY worked to strengthen the capacity of the indigenous local community in Kampung Tabung, Pahang. With support from the village head, EcoMY set up training in areas like nature guiding, bird watching, hospitality and marketing. They also commissioned the construction of a “Jungle Hut” from local builders to be used as a homestay for tourists seeking a more natural adventure.  

The project also enabled the refurbishment of a bathroom with 2 toilet units and attached showers, providing clean, running water for the community and their guests to use. To highlight the potential of sustainable, community-led tourism, ECOMY implemented training in marketing and communication. 

Two women nature guides also received training in social media management, including account setup, planning for content updates, and implementing promotional strategies to enhance programme visibility. They will apply these skills to build upon the existing Batek Nature Guide Facebook page to promote eco-tourism and the Community-based eco-tourism (CBET) approach.