Since 2004, Mr. Aji has been leading wildlife safaris in Borneo’s Kinabatangan River region, working on documentaries, and actively fighting for wildlife conservation. His expertise and deep knowledge of the rainforest earned him the honor of guiding Sir David Attenborough in both 2008 and 2013, where he showcased the rich biodiversity of this unique ecosystem.
The Kinabatangan River region is home to some of Borneo’s most endangered species, including the Bornean orangutan, proboscis monkey, Borneo pygmy elephant, and Sunda clouded leopard. These species face severe threats from poaching, climate change, and large-scale deforestation.
One of the biggest dangers is the expansion of palm oil plantations, which leads to widespread habitat destruction. Large areas of rainforest are cleared for infrastructure, coal mining, and agriculture, rapidly shrinking the habitats these species depend on.
Mr. Aji has long been an outspoken activist against palm oil deforestation. He took part in protests and demonstrations, leading educational tours to palm oil plantations to reveal the true extent of environmental destruction. His efforts led to conflicts with plantation owners, resulting in bans and arrests, but he refused to back down.
Now, he channels his passion into sustainable wildlife tourism, offering eco-friendly safaris that immerse visitors in the beauty of Borneo’s rainforests—away from mass tourism. During his tours, Mr. Aji and his son educate visitors about the region’s wildlife, their fragile ecosystems, and the devastating impact of deforestation. The stark contrast between untouched rainforest and endless rows of palm oil plantations makes the environmental crisis impossible to ignore.
By choosing a wildlife safari with Mr. Aji, visitors support ethical, conservation-driven tourism. His tours not only offer once-in-a-lifetime experiences but also help fund local conservation efforts and protect endangered species.
For Mr. Aji, this mission is deeply personal. His favorite species, the proboscis monkey, never ceases to amaze him—he can spend hours observing them, always discovering something new. His passion for Borneo’s wildlife and ecosystems fuels his ongoing fight against deforestation.
Mr. Aji’s message is simple but urgent: "The palm oil industry is destroying Borneo’s ecosystems and driving its wildlife to extinction." Through his tours, he hopes to inspire more people to understand the impact of their choices and take action for conservation.
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