OUR
STORY

From modest roots as a two-person operation working out of a home office, Sticky Rice Travel has grown into one of Sabah’s most trusted names in travel. Today, we’re a dynamic team based in the heart of Kota Kinabalu — passionate, knowledgeable, and deeply connected to the places we explore.

Our travel designers walk with you every step of the way, from your very first enquiry to the final day of your journey. In the field, our guides bring unmatched expertise and heart to every adventure — storytellers, naturalists, and cultural ambassadors who know Borneo like the back of their hand.

We’re here to offer more than just a trip. We create travel experiences that are immersive, respectful, and rooted in purpose. Come journey with us in Malaysian Borneo — and discover what meaningful travel truly feels like.
fly trap motif

THROUGH THE YEARS

Through the years, our journey has been defined by continuous growth, adapting to new horizons, and enriching every step with shared learning and unforgettable experiences.

2012 - 2016

Sticky Rice Travel is established with a mission to redefine travel in Borneo through responsible tourism and meaningful experiences. The company gains early recognition for its quality, partnerships, and commitment to sustainability, setting strong foundations for growth.

2017 - 2021

With a growing team of guides, naturalists, and travel consultants, Sticky Rice Travel expands its international reach and refines its niche in nature and wildlife travel. The years bring new collaborations, deeper community engagement, and continued dedication to conservation and education.

2022 - 2025

Following the challenges of the pandemic, operations resume with renewed purpose. Strategic investments in people, partnerships, and systems drive a new era of growth and resilience, positioning Sticky Rice Travel to lead the way in responsible, experience-driven travel across Malaysian Borneo.

2012 - 2016

Sticky Rice Travel is established with a mission to redefine travel in Borneo through responsible tourism and meaningful experiences. The company gains early recognition for its quality, partnerships, and commitment to sustainability, setting strong foundations for growth.

2017 - 2021

With a growing team of guides, naturalists, and travel consultants, Sticky Rice Travel expands its international reach and refines its niche in nature and wildlife travel. The years bring new collaborations, deeper community engagement, and continued dedication to conservation and education.

2022 - 2025

Following the challenges of the pandemic, operations resume with renewed purpose. Strategic investments in people, partnerships, and systems drive a new era of growth and resilience, positioning Sticky Rice Travel to lead the way in responsible, experience-driven travel across Malaysian Borneo.

MEET THE TEAM

With some of the best talent in the business our team of highly motivated staff are dedicated to providing a level of service that is difficult to match with extensive product knowledge.

Our tenacious guides with their almost uncanny ability to spot wildlife make any visit to the forest an unforgettable experience.

SHARED PATHS

WANT TO BE A

STICKY?

We’re always on the lookout for passionate, purpose-driven individuals who believe in the power of meaningful travel. If you’re curious, committed, and excited by the idea of working in adventure and conservation-based tourism — we’d love to hear from you.

tour guide leading group on safari

If a position feels like the right fit, send us your resumé along with a cover letter telling us why you’d make a great addition to the Sticky Rice Travel team.

Email us at info@stickyricetravel.com

Please note, only applications with a cover letter will be considered.

portrait of Charlie

CHARLES
RYAN

Director

In 2008, Charlie Ryan moved from the States to Borneo, where he began working on community conservation projects. Three years later, he and Jessica founded Sticky Rice Travel, recognising a niche for high-quality, tailor-made wildlife trips.

A professional photographer, Charlie captures the essence of Borneo’s wildlife, with the elusive clouded leopard and its feline companions holding a special place in his heart. His work has been featured in National Geographic, BBC, and Netflix.

portrait of Jess

JESSICA
YEW

Director

Jessica’s journey started with a search for something more. Leaving the corporate world behind, she embarked on a detour that took her backpacking across Europe and Asia. She spent several years as a rock-climbing assistant in Vietnam before finally making her way back home to Kota Kinabalu, where she quickly became a Divemaster.

Today, Jessica has found a powerful balance between her love for the outdoors and her work at Sticky Rice Travel. When she’s not leading her team, she’s out guiding for National Geographic Adventures in Indochina. What truly excites her about travel is the profound connection with people and cultures, a shared humanity that spans across worlds.

Portrait of Grace

GRACE
CHAN

General Manager

Grace began her career in advertising but found her true calling in travel, where creating meaningful experiences felt far more personal and impactful. She believes travel is about transformation for both people and the planet, and that connection lies at the heart of every journey.

Outside work she loves cooking from scratch, swimming, long walks, and traveling with Tupac, her pug and Sticky Rice’s unofficial Chief Therapy Officer. For Grace, the most memorable souvenirs are moments such as walking in solitude in Patagonia or flying past the Himalayas.

MARIA
SHABLYUK

Sales Manager

Russian-born and Malaysian-rooted, Maria channels her love for music through dance and weekend DJ-ing. After a decade in Malaysia, she’s driven by a passion for destinations and communities to flourish sustainably. Though she dreams of Sorento lemon trees and Russian delights, her heart remains grounded in people and place.

ALVIRA
CHONG

Lead Manager

With a cheerful “Good Morning!” Vera’s focus is always on others.You can find her giving the best Big Sister advice over a cold coffee or late lunch. A true creative, she also has a hand-sculpture business she started during the pandemic. What drives Vera most is her belief in connection with people, nature, and community.

HERDAWATI
INDRAWAN

Senior Travel Designer

Drawn to our community and creative spirit, Herda excels at crafting unforgettable trip. She believes in kindness and connection, using her days-off enjoying beach walks and coffee to unwind. Secretly, she’s a dancefloor diva who dreams of exploring Sulawesi and Bora-Bora.

ALLISON
DAWN
A KANOR

Travel Designer

Off the clock, you’ll find Dawn curled up with her pups, deep into a K-drama marathon, or happily lost in a good book. This lighthearted spirit is the same one she brings to the office, where her calm and steady presence keeps the team grounded. She finds joy in quiet moments and believes in the perfect trifecta of community, culture, and conservation.

ANTHONIA
C TIBOK

Travel Designer

Anthonia masters work-life balance by embracing weekends fully, from late-night karaoke to sunrise paddleboarding and evening hikes. Whether on jungle treks or personal quests, she approaches life as an adventure, exploring, connecting, and diving deeper, reflected in her passions for tattoos and horoscopes.

NUR
SYAFARINA
BT ROSNAWI

Travel Designer

Syafarina is a homebody and music lover, but karaoke reveals a lively side. She enjoys slow mornings, cosy romance films, and webtoons. Her first solo trip to Penang sparked confidence and independence. Drawn to travel, nature, and making a positive impact, she finds joy in exploring while staying authentic.

Portrait of Yuliya

YULIYA
SINGALUTOVA

Travel Designer

Walking into Harry Potter Land at Universal Orlando was a childhood dream fully realised, and very much on brand for someone who travels with Jo Nesbo crime novels picked up in Oslo itself. Empathetic, organised, and effortlessly outgoing, Yuliya moves through the world with quiet intention and a cross-stitch project never too far away. A typical day off involves the gym, good snacks, an evening out for food, and a little window shopping, simple pleasures, done well. What drives Yuliya most is an endless curiosity about people, the unexpected depths they carry, and the belief that there is always something new worth discovering.

AZREIL
MARTIN

Fleet Manager

Hailing from Kiau Village, guide and driver Azreil first climbed Kinabalu at only age twelve. Today, Azreil appreciates the quiet moments, tending his golden pineapple gardens back home. Despite his calm nature, he’s already up by 7 AM on days off with coffee and TikTok already going.

EVY
JUAKIM

Operation Coordinator

Evy is the creative force on the team and has a knack for being unintentionally hilarious. You’ll often spot her bundled up in warm layers, but she always brings a bright and imaginative energy to the office, sometimes even sharing fresh fruits as a thoughtful treat for everyone. When it comes to creative projects, she’s your best bet.

JARIAH
ARING

Operations Coordinator

As she would describe herself, Jariah is an extroverted introvert, thoughtful and focused, turning small details into memorable moments. She starts her days slow with coffee and moves through challenges with grace. For her, Borneo blends nature, culture, and magic, reflecting the passion she brings to her work.

SITI
NURSAFIERRA
JAFRIN/ JEFFRIN

Operations Coordinator

Fierra finds joy in the peaceful, everyday moments and the small wins that make a big difference. Don’t let her quiet composure fool you. She keeps everything running smoothly and somehow still delivers the perfect witty comment when you least expect it. When she’s not running the show, she’s likely unwinding with a new anime series or taking a weekend hike to clear her head.

PATRIC
HENRY

Driver

A deep-seated fascination with the Bornean Pygmy Elephant’s behavior led Patric to a life-changing decision: leaving the car dealership industry to find his purpose in tourism. He now spends his days as a passenger driver, immersed in the very natural world that captivated him as a child. To unwind, Patric turns to the simple pleasures of fishing, caring for his ornamental pet fish, and finding a peaceful spot by a river in the heart of the jungle.”

ROJAYDEE
RODZELEE

Driver

Jay finds joy transporting guests across Sabah’s beauty, always prioritizing safety. He is the ultimate local food insider, adding a culinary layer to every journey. When it comes to his favourite destinations, ask him about Danum Valley, Kinabalu, or the Semporna islands!

JEFFERY
GILIMON

Driver

After over 20 years as a certified tourist guide, Jeffery Gilimon now drives for Sticky Rice, bringing his deep knowledge and love for Sabah to every journey. What began as a job in 1997 became a lifelong passion for sharing his home’s unique wildlife and culture. As you travel with Jeffery, you’ll experience a guide who knows the roads and cherishes the destination.

BIRTHA
SYLVESTER

Accounts Reporting Manager & HR Admin

Birtha keeps things balanced, dependable with a tight spreadsheet, but also the one for spa tips and laughter. A calm leader who brings people together, she embraces growth in every outcome. Most importantly, she looks out for her team, always checking in to ensure they’re supported.

JOHN
ALEXIER
MELON

Accounts Receivables Executive

John’s world blends adventure and melody. From creating culinary masterpieces to singing in his church choir, he embraces exploration. After a trip to Turkey, he dreams of Sabah’s natural wonders, from Tanjung Aru and the Tip of Borneo to Mount Kinabalu and Bohey Dulang Island.

MELORISLEY
BANUS

Accounts & Admin Executive

Mello’s always one of the early birds in the office, but her day is already in full swing long before that. You can often find her spending her free time making vlogs of her small adventures, whether she’s cafe hopping right here in Kota Kinabalu or working on her small online thrift shop. A passion for stories drives her creative pursuits, a love reflected in both her favorite K-dramas and her carefully curated projects.

JESSICA
LEE

Office Administrator

If you’re ever looking for a quick snack, just stop by Jessi’s desk for chocolate or noodles. She quietly steps in wherever she’s needed, from handling daily office tasks to unexpectedly becoming the go-to bidet repair expert. Her perfect day is simple: a quiet beach with her family, with no plans at all. For Jessi, travel is a chance to give back, exploring the world while appreciating the beauty already here.

ISABELLE
YAP

Product & Experience Manager

An advocate for nature and fitness, Isabelle loves days that begin with breakfast with friends, include a splash in the river, and end with family dinners. Her adventurous spirit shines through stories like climbing the Mulu Pinnacles, where every tear on the way down became part of a journey worth laughing about.

DARREL
LEON
LAI

Contract Coordinator

As the office’s unofficial mascot, Darrel is quirky, helpful, and quick to brighten the day with humor (and the occasional leftover snack find). He’s also a steady hand in contracting, keeping things running smoothly behind the scenes. Rooted in Borneo, he’s drawn to travel, culture, and nature, finding joy in connections and in helping others slow down.

photo of team member Jeo

JEOFFRY
NASIR

Communications Catalyst

Jeo can juggle cats, coffee, and client care all before lunch, often wrapped in a warm blanket with a cup in hand. His calm curiosity makes him a natural multitasker, always eager to learn. A true lunch buddy, he is calm under pressure and always ready to help or unwind with a hot cup and an online magazine.

DEAN
JAIS

Nature Guide

Not many can say they’ve introduced a future king and queen to a wild orangutan, but for Dean Jais, that’s just one memorable moment in a career shaped by a lifelong connection to Sabah’s jungles.

Born and raised in Lahad Datu, Dean spent six years honing his skills in the legendary Danum Valley, culminating in the prestigious Best Specialised Tour Guide award in 2015. After the pandemic, he embraced a new chapter as a freelance guide, showcasing his resilience and adaptability.

More than just a guide, Dean is a storyteller who shares his passion, turning every trek into a personal adventure and inspiring a deeper appreciation for Borneo’s wild heart.

Bedley

BEDLEY
ASUN

Nature Guide

Bedley Asun’s story begins at the foot of Mount Kinabalu, in the picturesque farming village of Bundu Tuhan. His career began humbly as a ranger at an orangutan reserve, but his talent and determination quickly saw him rise through the ranks.

With over a decade of experience, he’s now a seasoned guide who has led expeditions for prestigious brands like National Geographic across Borneo, from Kuching to the Mulu UNESCO Heritage Site. His decision to become a freelance guide showcases his dedication to his craft. Bedley’s journey is not just about guiding; it’s about sharing a profound love for his home and its wild heart with others.

MICHERWEN
MICHAEL

Nature Guide

From his childhood near Membakut, Mike developed a deep fascination with Borneo’s wildlife, thanks to early encounters with proboscis monkeys and hornbills, fueling his journey into guiding.

His career began with a humble desire to learn and share, and he quickly honed his skills across Sabah. A pivotal period at a prestigious lodge in Danum Valley solidified his commitment to high-standard, professional guiding, and his expertise now takes him to iconic locations like the Mulu UNESCO Heritage Site.

Known for his tenacity, Mike is a sought-after guide who connects with clients and ensures every trip is memorable. Today, Mike leads expeditions for some of the biggest names in adventure travel, a testament to his perseverance.

AKHMAL
ARON

Nature Guide

Akhmal found his calling as a guide in Borneo, sharing his deep love for the region and creating unforgettable experiences. His journey is rooted in his passion for the outdoors and the values of perseverance and ambition instilled by his mother. This same adventurous spirit fuels his career, as he loves tackling challenging pursuits like rock climbing.

Akhmal is drawn to the rugged wilderness of places like Trusmadi and the Maliau Basin, where he loves to lead expeditions. His goal is to connect people with the beauty and serenity of Sabah’s wilderness, promoting sustainable tourism in his homeland.

PATRIK
PIUS

Nature Guide

A journey that began behind the wheel of a car has blossomed into a passion for sharing Borneo’s wonders. Patrik, originally from Keningau, started in tourism as a driver before discovering his true calling as a guide, sparked by his love for Sabah’s natural beauty.

His fascination with Borneo’s rich biodiversity shines through his interests in bird and butterfly species, and he now uses photography to capture and share the stunning landscapes he encounters.

Known for his charming nature and dedication, Patrik’s guiding style is all about fostering a mutual exchange of stories. His journey from a driver to a sought-after guide demonstrates his determined spirit.

DR. WONG SIEW TE

Founder, Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre

Dr. (Hon) Siew Te Wong, D.J.N. is a Malaysian wildlife biologist and tropical forest ecologist who has been active in his field for over 35 years.

He earned his Veterinary and Animal Science Diploma from the National Pingtung University of Science and Technology, Pingtung, Taiwan, and all of his B. Sc., M. Sc., and doctorate in Wildlife Biology at the University of Montana, Montana, USA.

Dr. Wong is the CEO and the founder of the Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre (BSBCC) in Sabah, Malaysian Borneo, which he founded in 2008 to conserve sun bears through holistic and pragmatic approaches in Sabah. Dr Wong is a member of the IUCN/SSC Bear Specialist Group and Wild Pig Specialist Group. Dr. Wong and BSBCC received numerous awards and recognitions for their efforts in wildlife conservation.

He was conferred “Member-Order of the Defender of State” (D.J.N) by the governor of Penang State, Malaysia, awarded an Honorary Doctorate by the University of Sunshine Coast, Australia, and named a CNN Hero.


DR ZAINAL ZAHARI ZAINUDDIN

Veterinarian &
Field Manager

A dedicated wildlife veterinarian, Dr. Zainal’s passion for conservation intensified after witnessing the rapid decline of species like the Sumatran rhino, which steered him toward habitat restoration.

At BORA, he now develops sustainable, science-based models. His work ranges from planting figs for orangutans to creating pastures for herbivores, successfully ensuring biodiversity recovery and enriching critical ecosystems.

PROFESSOR BENOIT GOOSSENS

Director DGFC

Professor Benoit Goossens is the Director of the Danau Girang Field Centre (DGFC) and a Professor at Cardiff University. An expert in conservation genetics and ecology, he leads vital research and conservation efforts in the Lower Kinabatangan, focusing on wildlife survival and State Action Plans for key species.

He also directs Regrow Borneo, a holistic ecosystem restoration initiative that ensures measurable, community-backed forest recovery.