What is your name?
David Metcalf
What years were you in Borneo?
2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2011 and 2012
What areas of Borneo were you in?
Kalimantan – Mahakam river north East – Malineau, Setulang, Palangkaraya, West Kalimantan
What brought you to Borneo?
Interest in the rainforest and the Dayak people. I have long been fascinated by native cultures and have spent a lot of time studying American Indian tribes and have visited many places where they live or lived. I was fascinated to find the Dayaks were very similar in many ways; there are great conservationists and very much one with their environment. I also like to travel to places less visited as that’s where I find the true magic of travel and connect with people not impacted by tourism.
If you had 3 minutes on a loud speaker that would be heard by the whole world (or all Americans) what would you tell them about Borneo?
It is one of the most extraordinary places on the planet full of incredible biodiversity, indescribable beauty and unique wildlife. Many Dayak tribes’ language and culture simply must be preserved as we have much to learn from these people. Please visit or at least learn about the wonders that the Amazon of Asia provides.
When you talk about Borneo and your trip there what is the thing you always are sure to say?
That it is imperative that we stop destroying this place. In less than one generation much of Borneo and approx 60% of Kalimantan has been destroyed, however there are still vast tracts of virgin forest, many of which are potentially under threat. There are species of plants not yet discovered that may be the cure for many diseases, but yet we are destroying them before we discover them. All this said, enjoy the beautiful,friendly people who will treat you like family.
How have your experiences in Borneo impacted your life outside of Borneo?
My experiences have given me a much greater admiration and respect for native cultures and have taught me many things about how to live a more peaceful, balanced, happy life. I am continually drawn back to the forests and the rivers of Kalimantan as I find peace and wisdom there.
What do you think people in the US who have never been to Borneo should know about it?
That a world exists where a people live in harmony with their environment and that they should be supported and listened to as they have much to teach us and future generations.
What was the thing that was most surprising to you about Borneo?
The vastness of the forests and the rivers and the friendliness of the people.
Who was the most memorable person you met in Borneo, why?
Our guide in North East Kalimantan, Raymond. His connection with the rainforest where he lives and his ability to see and feel things that I cannot. He is like a cat in the Jungle seemingly gliding through the forest, able to walk through the forest at night without light, but feeling his way and sensing dangers if they arise. His connection and oneness with his environment is something I had never witnessed before.
Do you have a story or experience you would like to share with us?
One day I ventured up a river with 7 Dayaks including 2 elders in traditional clothing, fishing and singing their songs that drifted back to centuries past. To see the ease in which they moved through this environment and the knowledge of everything around them left a big impression on me. They seemed to be in perfect harmony and balance and their love for this place was hard to describe. At night they danced around the campfire mimicking animals and dancing to the traditional guitars with great joy and laughter. There was a connectedness there with people, nature and the spirit world that I will never forget.
Anything else you would like to share?
Please join in and help in whatever way possible as the people deserve our support in a world that is vanishing very quickly in our relentless desire for a more comfortable and materialistic world, which is not where the answers lie.