Tropical Research And Conservation Centre, Sabah, Malaysia

5Jane K 5:00 PM Mar 8, 2023

heaven on earth
I initially volunteered at TRACC for one month with the expectation to learn more about the ocean, gain hands-on conservation experience, and meet some new people. TRACC was SO more than that in every single way, and within one week I knew that I needed to extend my stay. I came to PomPom as an inexperienced diver, but within 3.5 weeks I’d done over 50 dives on the island and gained a rescue diver certification. This was with the help of Amazing Anna, who is the all-time best instructor, and the DMT’s who were incredibly supportive and enthusiastic. You learn something new every single day; spending hours excitedly identifying fish after your dives, and being briefed by the super knowledgeable science officers on every aspect of the work dives and turtle walks. Conservation efforts are paramount, which is evidenced every day during reef restoration projects, coral planting, crown of thorn starfish culling, and turtle ID dives - to name a few. Everyones tents are really spacious, the communal area and facilities are clean, and the food is an absolute highlight (I'm still dreaming of the gado gado). There are no ‘cliques’ and from day one you’re treated exactly the same as the other Volunteers, A Levellers and Staff, even if they've been there for years! The friendly and welcoming nature of the camp remains exactly the same, despite people coming and going. It was an absolute pleasure to be on PomPom, and I know I’ll be visiting this wonderful island for years to come.

5DeepPurpleNurple 5:00 PM May 30, 2020

Paradise Found
I spent 3 months here as a volunteer and I dont think i can recomend this place enough! Situated on the west coast of Pom Pom, on the edge of the coral triangle, the biodiversity here is immense with breathtaking sunsets almost every evening! accomadation is basic, with tents and a fan with shared western toilets and showers. But honestly, you dont need much more. The system they have makes life almost too easy. Theres a schedule made up the evening before each following day with 3 or 4 dives a day, you get fed delicious food and your only worry is what time you'll crack a beer open. As far as conservation goes. The amount you can learn here is practically endless. The science officers are very knowledgeable as well as the whole dive team and always keen for a discussion. You take part in class on fish and invert id amongst others and if you are willing you can take party in many scientific and work dives. You can really see the tangible difference this establishment is making to the reef. The highlights for me include night diving and the people I met that cultivated such a wonderful sense of community and connection. As the famous comedian Arnold Braunshweigger once said "I'll be back!"