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You’ll be matched with your personal volunteer travel expert who’ll guide you every step of the way.

Meet Your Travel Expert

Receive your welcome pack with everything you need: arrival info, contacts, visa and insurance help, packing tips, vaccines, language basics, and so much more.

Get Ready to Go!

Choose your dream project and apply for free—no commitment, just excitement!

Pick Your Destination & Apply

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Once your dates are confirmed, pay your program fee—choose to pay in full or in easy installments.

Secure Your Spot

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APPLY HERE

Turtle Conservation Program in Malaysia

Overview

Protect and monitor nesting sea turtles.

Choose from 1 to 12 weeks

Volunteer Shared House

Up to 6 hours per day
5 Days per week

Want to volunteer as a turtle conservationist in Malaysia? Our Travel Roots Turtle Conservation Program places you on the stunning beaches of the Perhentian Islands—where your days and nights will revolve around the protection of endangered sea turtles, meaningful community engagement, and unforgettable island life.

This program combines hands-on conservation with immersive cultural experiences. You’ll patrol nesting beaches under starry skies, kayak through turquoise waters, snorkel with foraging turtles, and educate locals and tourists alike on sustainable marine practices.

You’ll live in a traditional Malay village, experiencing the warmth and hospitality of the local community while actively contributing to the long-term survival of marine life.

Key Activities Include:

Turtle Photo Identification: Kayak and snorkel to photograph turtles for individual ID and population monitoring

Night Beach Patrols: Patrol nesting beaches to deter poaching, monitor nests, and relocate eggs to hatcheries

Turtle Hatchery Work: Assist with the management of hatcheries and release of hatchlings

Tourist Awareness Talks: Brief tourists at dive centres and resorts on turtle-friendly snorkelling practices

Beach Cleanups: Weekly cleanups to keep turtle habitats free from plastic and debris

Community Outreach: Participate in local awareness talks and campaigns

Data Collection: Record sightings and activity for ongoing research efforts
By volunteering on our Turtle Conservation Project in Malaysia, you will:

Patrol tropical beaches under the stars while protecting nesting turtles

Snorkel and kayak alongside foraging sea turtles in crystal-clear waters

Monitor and identify turtles using photo ID methods to track populations

Assist with hatchery work and release newborn turtles into the ocean

Support eco-education by giving awareness talks at dive shops and resorts

Immerse yourself in authentic Malay village life with warm local hospitality

Contribute to vital conservation data that informs marine park policies

Be part of an award-winning conservation initiative that blends environmental action with meaningful community engagement
What to Expect: A Day in the Life of a Turtle Conservationist in Malaysia

Life as a Turtle Conservation Volunteer in the Perhentian Islands is a rewarding blend of meaningful conservation work, immersive cultural experiences, and the serenity of island living. Your days are split between sea and land, with a perfect mix of snorkelling, surveying, learning, and community engagement.

Here’s what a typical day might look like:

7:00 AM – Sunrise & Breakfast
Wake up to the sound of waves and jungle birds before joining your fellow volunteers for a simple island-style breakfast.

8:00 AM – Kayak & Turtle Photo ID Survey
Head out by kayak to local seagrass beds where sea turtles feed. Using underwater cameras, you’ll snorkel and free-dive to photograph individual turtles for identification. Record data on their behaviour, number of tourists nearby, and any threats.

11:00 AM – Beach Clean-Up or Precious Plastic Workshop
Join a team beach clean-up or learn how to turn collected plastics into usable items using the Precious Plastic Machine.

12:30 PM – Lunch
Enjoy a simple lunch at a local restaurant or prepared together with the team back at the volunteer house.

2:00 PM – Community or Eco Awareness Outreach
Prepare and deliver talks at dive centres, resorts, or local villages on turtle conservation and eco-tourism best practices. Help raise awareness among tourists and locals alike.

4:00 PM – Free Time or Coral & Seagrass Monitoring (Seasonal)
Depending on the season, participate in reef or seagrass monitoring dives. Otherwise, relax, snorkel, or explore the island trails.

6:30 PM – Dinner with the Team
Help cook a communal dinner or enjoy a hosted meal with a local family—an authentic cultural experience that builds bonds and broadens your perspective.

9:00 PM – Night Patrol (Selected Evenings)
Join the conservation team for nocturnal patrols along nesting beaches. Record nesting data, protect turtle nests, and ensure eggs are transferred safely to the hatchery.

Days Off:
Volunteers typically have 1–2 days off per week. These are perfect for exploring other islands, scuba diving, jungle trekking, or simply soaking up the sun.
Your Impact as a Volunteer

By joining the Turtle Conservation Project in the Perhentian Islands, you become a key player in safeguarding one of the ocean’s most beloved species. Your efforts directly support the protection, monitoring, and preservation of endangered green sea turtles, and your presence strengthens long-term conservation goals.

Here’s how your work truly matters:

Protecting Nesting Sites: Your night patrols help safeguard nesting females and their eggs from natural threats and poaching. The data you collect contributes to vital research used to influence policy and improve beach management.

Photo ID & Behavioural Studies: Your turtle photo ID surveys provide valuable data that helps track population size, identify individuals, and detect health or behavioural issues. This information is used by conservationists and researchers to make informed protection plans.

Community Engagement & Education: Through awareness campaigns, local outreach, and eco-education initiatives, you help create a more environmentally conscious community and tourist culture. Changing minds is one of the most powerful tools for long-term change.

Sustainable Tourism Support: By helping local snorkelling and dive shops adopt turtle-friendly practices, you make tourism part of the solution, not the problem.

Plastic Waste Reduction: From beach cleanups to running the Precious Plastic Machine, you’ll reduce plastic pollution and demonstrate the power of circular waste systems.

But your impact goes beyond the turtles.

You’ll develop transferable skills in marine biology, data collection, public speaking, eco-education, and cross-cultural communication. These are real-world conservation skills that can lead to academic advancement or a meaningful career in environmental work—anywhere in the world.

By investing your time, energy, and passion here, you’re not just making a difference locally—you’re becoming part of a global movement to protect our oceans and inspire others to act.
You Home in the Perhentian Islands

During your time in the Perhentian Islands, you'll stay at the Fuze Ecoteer Volunteer House—a simple, social base that places you right at the heart of the conservation action. The house includes three sleeping areas with shared bathroom facilities, a communal kitchen space, and basic essentials like mosquito nets, bedding, safe drinking water, and fans to keep you comfortable in the tropical climate.

While modest, the house provides everything you need to recharge between survey dives, beach cleanups, and community outreach work. It’s a place where volunteers come together, share stories, and create friendships that often last well beyond the program.

Food

Meals are included throughout your stay. Breakfasts are typically light and local, featuring roti canai, toast, or fresh fruit. Lunch is usually enjoyed at a nearby local restaurant, giving you a chance to taste everyday Malaysian flavours.

In the evenings, dinner becomes a communal event—volunteers cook together with the project team or enjoy delicious local meals with villagers. One evening each week, you’ll be invited into a local family’s home for an authentic Malay dinner—an opportunity to learn about traditional recipes, local customs, and the warm hospitality of the island community.
History

Founded with a deep love for Malaysia’s natural ecosystems, this grassroots conservation group has grown into one of the country’s most recognised community-based NGOs. With its roots in education and sustainable tourism, the organisation expanded into full-scale environmental programming to protect the marine biodiversity of the Perhentian Islands.

Over the years, it has launched long-term projects in turtle protection, coral reef rehabilitation, waste management, and youth eco-education—becoming a vital force in local conservation.

Mission & Vision

Their mission is to inspire and empower communities and volunteers to live in harmony with nature through meaningful conservation action. By integrating scientific research, community development, and eco-tourism, they strive to protect Malaysia’s most vulnerable marine ecosystems while creating sustainable futures for local communities.

Their vision is a thriving Perhentian Islands archipelago where people and marine life flourish together—supported by informed, capable, and passionate stewards from all walks of life.
Program Fees & What’s Included

Program Fees:

Duration           Fee (€)          Per Day Equiverlant

2 weeks           €692             (€49.43 per day)

3 weeks           €850             (€40.48 per day)

4 weeks           €1,010          (€36.07 per day)

What’s Included:

✔️ Return boat transfers
✔️ Three delicious local meals per day
✔️ Basic fan dormitory accommodation with shared bathroom
✔️ All project-related activities
✔️ Marine biology education & turtle monitoring training
✔️ Welcome pack full of essential and useful info
✔️ Domestic travel assistance & orientation
✔️ Expert guidance and support from experienced field professionals
✔️ Full support before, during, and after your program
✔️ Certificate of Completion
✔️ 100% Cancellation Money-Back Guarantee
✔️ So much more

Your Investment in Sea Turtles, Conservation & Yourself

By joining the Turtle Conservation Project in the Perhentian Islands, you’re not just helping protect endangered sea turtles—you’re investing in your own growth.

This program offers hands-on experience in marine biology, data collection, and environmental education. Whether you're building a future career in conservation or simply looking to make a meaningful impact, the skills and insights gained here will stay with you for life.

Each euro you contribute helps protect turtle nesting grounds, fund conservation research, and support the local community’s efforts to preserve Malaysia’s precious marine ecosystem.

APPLY HERE

Volunteering Worldwide
Rooted In Purpose
And Connection

Where You'll Be: The Perhentian Islands – Malaysia’s Marine Jewel

Your volunteering experience takes place on the stunning Perhentian Islands, a small archipelago located off the northeast coast of Peninsular Malaysia in the state of Terengganu. Surrounded by crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and pristine beaches, the islands are a haven for divers, snorkelers, and conservationists alike.

The marine environment is part of a protected marine park and is home to a rich variety of marine species, including sea turtles, blacktip reef sharks, clownfish, cuttlefish, stingrays, and a dazzling spectrum of coral species. The conservation work here is vital to ensure the reefs and seagrass beds thrive for generations to come.

Volunteers are based on Perhentian Kecil, the smaller of the two main islands. It offers a laid-back vibe with a mix of local culture and low-impact tourism. Accommodation, meals, and project activities are all within walking distance from the beach.

About Malaysia

Malaysia is a cultural and ecological melting pot, blending modern cities, ancient traditions, and extraordinary biodiversity. From the skyscrapers of Kuala Lumpur to the rainforests of Borneo, it’s a country of contrasts and colour.

Language: Malay (Bahasa Malaysia) is the national language, but English is widely spoken.
Climate: Tropical and humid year-round. Expect daytime temperatures around 28–34°C (82–93°F), with cooling sea breezes.
People & Culture: Malaysia is known for its friendliness, multiculturalism, and incredible cuisine. The Perhentian region is predominantly Malay-Muslim, and volunteers are encouraged to dress modestly when visiting local villages.

Whether you’re passionate about marine ecosystems or just looking to connect with something meaningful, the Perhentian Islands offer an unforgettable base for conservation work and island life.

Volunteering on the Perhentian Islands offers not only meaningful conservation work but also the opportunity to immerse yourself in the natural beauty and vibrant culture of this tropical paradise during your free time.

Snorkelling and Diving
Explore the crystal-clear waters teeming with marine life, including coral reefs, tropical fish, and sea turtles. Local operators offer snorkelling and diving excursions suitable for all experience levels.

Kayaking Adventures
Paddle along the coastline to discover secluded beaches and hidden coves. Kayaking provides a unique perspective of the islands and a chance to encounter marine wildlife.

Jungle Trekking
Embark on guided hikes through lush rainforests, where you might spot monitor lizards, monkeys, and a variety of bird species. Trails lead to scenic viewpoints offering panoramic vistas of the islands.

Beach Relaxation
Unwind on the pristine white-sand beaches, perfect for sunbathing, reading, or simply enjoying the tranquil surroundings.

Cultural Experiences
Engage with the local community by participating in traditional Malay dinners, where you can savor authentic cuisine and learn about local customs.

These activities provide a well-rounded experience, allowing you to contribute to conservation efforts while enjoying the diverse offerings of the Perhentian Islands.