Danau Girang Field Centre — Visitor Application

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The Malaysian state of Sabah is located on the northern portion of Borneo, the world’s third largest island. Sabah covers an area of about 76,000km2 and shares the island with the Malaysian state of Sarawak, the Nation of Brunei Darussalam and the Indonesian provinces of Kalimantan. The base camp, Danau Girang Field Centre (DGFC), is located in eastern Sabah, in the Lower Kinabatangan Wildlife Sanctuary. The Sanctuary lies along the Kinabatangan River, the longest river in Sabah, at 560 km. The Kinabatangan River is a widely meandering river, and now has about 30 oxbow lakes scattered along it. Due to its high levels of biodiversity, these wetlands are one of the most important and productive in Malaysia.

The Lower Kinabatangan Wildlife Sanctuary (LKWS) consists of 10 forest blocks along the Kinabatangan River, totalling about 26,000 ha, and creates a link between the forest reserves already along the river (approximately 15,000 ha) and State and privately owned land (approximately 10,000 ha). The forest types represented include lowland dipterocarp forest, forest over limestone, seasonal and tidal swamps, permanent freshwater swamp, and mangroves. These forest types are located within a landscape with significant human impact, including villages, small scale agriculture and oil palm plantations. This matrix landscape is ideal for investigating the influence and interaction of human encroachment on the diversity, behaviour and abundance of the local wildlife.

Accommodation

DGFC is well equipped with a hostel building for Students/Volunteers. The hostel is equipped with multiple toilet and shower facilities. The main administration building has an equipped laboratory, library/study area, and dining area. Sleeping arrangements will be in a dormitory with shared bathroom facilities in a long-house style building or in double-sharing studios.

Services

• A washing machine is available on site, for long-stay visitors (not for field courses), please check with field centre staff regarding laundry arrangements.
• Free access to mineral water is available to refill your water bottle from dispensers in the Main Building.
• Electricity is available in the Main Building from 6:30am-11:00pm. Electricity to all other buildings is available between 5:00pm-11:00pm and for a period in the mornings during field courses.

Meals

• All meals are prepared by experienced cooks.
• Meals are served in the dining area in the main building at these times: breakfast from 7:00 to 9:00 am, lunch at 12:00 pm and dinner at 7:00 pm.
• Coffee, tea and drinking water are available at all times in the Main Building.
• The kitchen and its supplies are off-limits, unless authorised.

Wildlife

The mixture of lowland dipterocarp forest types of the Kinabatangan Floodplain makes this an area of high importance, supporting high levels of biodiversity for mammals, birds, and herpetofauna, many of which are endemic to Borneo. Mammals present include Bornean elephant, Sunda clouded leopard, leopard cat, civets, bearded pig, sambar deer, otter and sun bear.

There are 10 primate species observed in the area, including the proboscis monkey, Bornean orang-utan, Muller’s gibbon, long-tailed macaque, pig-tailed macaque, silver langur, maroon langur, and two nocturnal primates: the Western tarsier, and the Bornean slow loris.

Over 300 bird species can be found along the Kinabatangan River, including all 8 species of hornbill found in Borneo, the Endangered Storm’s stork and the Oriental darter.

Environment

A moderate level of fitness will be required for forest trekking to be carried out through sometimes boggy and swampy terrain. In general, the terrain is flat, but there are many dips with numerous obstructions to negotiate including fallen trees, the mosquitoes, thorny plants and humidity causing discomfort from time-to-time. Tree stilt roots are a tripping hazard, so care must be taken when walking in the forest. Two species of understorey plants, pandan and rattan, are widespread and both of these have very sharp cutting thorns.

Climate

Sabah enjoys an equatorial climate; daytime shade temperatures typically reach 32ºC and drop to around 23ºC at night. It experiences very high humidity and the forests of the Sanctuary are inundated in certain places. This tropical climate consists of a wet and dry season.

Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC)

All foreign citizens travelling to Malaysia must complete the Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC), except:

1. Citizens of Singapore;
2. Diplomatic and Official Passport holders;
3. Malaysian Permanent Residents and Long Term-Pass holders;
4. General Certificate of Identity (GCI) Brunei Darussalam holders;
5. Brunei Malaysia Frequent Traveler Facility holders;
6. Thailand Border Pass holders; and
7. Indonesia Cross-Border Travel Document (PLB) holders.

Effective 1 January 2024, completion of this MDAC will be mandatory, except those listed above. Please note that the MDAC must be completed and submitted within 3 days before arrival in Malaysia.

For more information about how to register, visit the Malaysian Immigration website via this link.

Visa Requirements

Most countries are offered a 90-day tourist visa on arrival in Malaysia. A visa may be necessary for visitors from some countries. For further information, please visit the Malaysian Embassy (http://malaysia.embassyhomepage.com). You must ensure that your passport will be valid for at least 6 months before your departure to Malaysia.

If your stay in Malaysia is longer than the number of days granted on your tourist visa, you will have to leave the country temporarily which will be at your own expense. Please note that your accommodation costs are calculated from the day you arrive until the day you depart (inclusive). If you must leave the field centre for visa reasons or want to leave for a vacation, these days will not be deducted from your fees, i.e. there will be no refunds or recalculation for paid days-of-stay at the field centre.

Insurance

You must arrange comprehensive travel and medical insurance cover for the entire duration of your stay at DGFC. You must ensure that your insurers are aware of the type of travel and work to be undertaken at DGFC. It is strongly recommended that you take out a travel health insurance policy as all expenses related to any health problem or accident will be your own responsibility. We will require a copy of your health insurance policy prior to arrival at the field centre. DGFC will not be liable for injury, damage or loss to person or property.

Travel

There are 2 major airports in Sabah (Kota Kinabalu and Sandakan Airports), and you have 2 options for travelling to DGFC.

1. Fly to Sandakan Airport (connecting from Kuala Lumpur or Kota Kinabalu)

• If you arrive before 3pm at Sandakan airport, we will arrange to pick you up directly from the airport
• If you arrive after 3pm at Sandakan airport, you will need to book a room in a hostel/hotel and we will arrange to pick you up from the hostel/hotel the following morning.

2. Travel by bus from Kota Kinabalu to the Kinabatangan Bridge (Batu Puteh)

Take a morning bus (~7AM or 8AM) from Inanam Bus Terminal (6 hour journey) which takes you through Lahad Datu/Semporna/Tawau. Ask the driver to drop you at the Kinabatangan Bridge, at Batu Puteh. They will drop you at a small intersection with a side road which slopes downhill. Follow the road (<5 minutes walking), through the village to a parking lot on the left where we will meet you.

Money

The currency in Malaysia is Ringgit Malaysia (RM). There are currently NO money changing facilities either for cash or travellers cheques in Batu Puteh (where our boats will pick you up to bring you to DGFC), so make sure you have converted your money in Kota Kinabalu or Sandakan before heading to DGFC. In Kota Kinabalu and Sandakan, ATM machines are widespread and accept cards bearing the Maestro, Cirrus or Visa marks, as well as other internationally recognised marks, your bank may charge you for these transactions. It is not possible to check your bank balance this way but can be arranged by setting up internet banking before you leave.

An Assumption of Risk and Indemnity Agreement will be shared with you once your stay has been confirmed. A Google Form is used for collection of your electronic agreement and all actions (including vaccinations and medical insurances) MUST be completed and submitted at least 2 weeks before your arrival at the field centre.

Upon arrival you will be briefed on those documents and other relevant information. Once briefed, you will be asked to sign again the Assumption of Risk and Indemnity Agreement as well as the Sexual Harassment Policy and other Safeguarding procedures, before commencing work in the forest.

Your time at DGFC should be aimed to obtain vital information and skills to assist in DGFC’s goal of preservation of the natural environment. Therefore, the visitor is expected to work under the supervision of the Project Leaders in a conscientious manner in order to assist in the compilation of this information. You must agree to abide by the authority of the Project Leaders and always follow reasonable instructions.

Cultural Respect

Be aware of cultural differences when interacting with others and please respect our local staff and villagers. Malaysia is predominantly Muslim and, as such, women should keep their shoulders and knees covered, especially when travelling through the local village (Batu Putih). Equally, it is expected that everyone dresses respectably at DGFC at all times.

Please remember that should you wear DGFC logo clothing outside of the field centre, at any time, we expect you to behave in an appropriate, considerate and respectful manner.

Library / Computer Room / Laboratory / Common Area

• When using the library, please return the books to the same shelves and keep the area clean and in order.
• Please use headphones if listening to music etc
• Please switch off lights, fans, computers, laptops, gadgets etc. and unplug cables when not in use and do not leave cables or extensions lying around haphazardly.
• No food and drinks are allowed in the library, computer room and laboratory.
• The laboratory is off-limits at all times unless authorised and supervised.
• Please keep the common area clean and in order at all times.

General

• As your bedroom will be in a dormitory with shared bathroom facilities in a long-house style building or in double-sharing studios, please be respectful and exercise common courtesy with fellow sharers.
• Personal food is not allowed in the accommodation. Do not leave food or food wastes lying around as these will attract such pests.
• Please dispose of rubbish thoughtfully in bins provided and make sure the lids are secure.
• Any (dry) personal food items are to be stored in the communal secure container in the main building to prevent insects and other pests.
• Cleaning of shoes, boots, rain jackets, bags and other such items are the responsibility of the owner.
• If you come across any damage in the room or in the building that needs attention, please report to the Centre’s Operations Manager immediately.

If anyone damages, destroys or loses any item of equipment owned by DGFC, he/she will be held liable for any costs not recovered through DGFC’s insurance, and the related costs for repair and/or replacement.

1. It is mandatory to wear a life jacket at all times on DGFC boats.
2. It is strictly forbidden to swim in the main river, tributaries and oxbow lakes. Any visitor who does not abide by this article will be asked to leave the field centre.
3. It is strictly forbidden to bring and/or consume alcohol or psychotropic substances at the field centre or in its vicinity. Any visitor who does not abide by this article will be asked to leave the field centre.
4. You are required to inform your Project Leader/Manager/centre staff if you suffer from any bites, rashes, fever or any other such conditions no matter how minor, while/after being outdoors. This is a precautionary measure to ensure that you are given immediate medical attention if necessary.
5. Visitors are expected to notify DGFC's senior members of staff prior to or on their arrival of any new medical or psychological conditions diagnosed post disclosure. This information will be confidential and available only to key members of staff. Undisclosed conditions that might endanger the visitor or DGFC's team members are grounds to terminate the stay.
6. It is strictly forbidden to bring, store and consume food and drinks, other than plain water, in the accommodation buildings.
7. It is strictly forbidden to give any food to wildlife or to catch/touch wildlife (insects, reptiles, amphibians, etc.), except for scientific purposes previously agreed by the project leaders.
8. It is forbidden to go alone in the forest. All visitors must be accompanied by a member of staff, long term volunteer or DGFC student. Guides are required to carry a compass, a whistle and water at all times when going in the forest.
9. Smoking and/or vaping is not allowed within any of the facilities, on boats and in the forest and oil palm plantations. Smoking is only allowed just outside the main building, where ashtrays are provided.
10. It is strictly forbidden to climb any trees within the centre, unless required for field work purposes, and under supervision.
11. Visitors are allowed to take pictures during their visit to DGFC. However, photographing animal handling procedures must be agreed with, and approved by the project leader in advance; these pictures cannot be posted in social media, unless it is through DGFC's official channels. At the end of their stay at the field centre, visitors are highly encouraged to provide their best pictures to DGFC. If pictures are provided, DGFC will have the right to use them for awareness and promotion purposes. DGFC will do everything in its capacity to acknowledge the author of the picture but cannot be responsible for omitting it. It is therefore highly recommended to watermark any picture provided to DGFC.
12. For your safety, unless you have received permission to do so and/or your work/project requires it, you must return to your dormitory by 11:00pm as the generator is turned off and there is no electricity to the dormitories, Main Building or path lighting.
13. If anyone commits an act deemed illegal by Malaysian Law whilst at DGFC (including the time spent outside of DGFC during the duration of your stay), or if in the opinion of the Manager/Project Leaders, the behaviour is detrimental to the aims of DGFC or the safety or welfare of others at DGFC, the offenders may be required to leave DGFC within 24 hours notice, without any compensation, and no liability on the part of DGFC shall arise whatsoever.
14. It is strictly forbidden to litter in the sanctuary.

• Students and volunteers are expected to participate in the daily activities of the field centre, which includes but are not limited to assisting in the field work of different projects (camera trapping, habitat assessments and surveys, among others), trail maintenance, river cleaning, helping with visitors and field courses, processing camera trap pictures, preparing equipment for field work and cleaning and storing the equipment after used. Professional Training Year (PTY) students have specific tasks that will be handed over to them upon arrival.
• All the activities are evenly distributed between the student/volunteers on a daily basis, and everyone is expected to collaborate in the different activities. Is not possible to participate only in one specific project during your stay.
• Procedures that require animal handling (collaring, tagging or sampling) may need the assistance of students/volunteers, but the decision of including them will be made by the project leaders in each situation.
• If you need to develop a personal project for your institution during your stay, please make sure you have explained this clearly to DGFC’s Director, notified project leaders and that your request is approved by them. No volunteer will be permitted to carry out research without previous approval.
• Work is not restricted to weekdays; it is continued during weekends and public holidays as well. Given that field work is weather and project dependent, there will be more free time some days than others, so make sure you bring some entertainment items (like books or movies).
• Some of our previous PTY’s and volunteers have created a short document as an introduction of the life at the field centre that you can request from us (this is not a DGFC official document but can be very helpful).

Transportation Needs There will be a schedule on display for daily movements requiring the use of boats and cars (arranged and approved in advance).

• If you wish to go into town on a rest-day, please put in your request to the Operations Manager in advance. DGFC’s transport is normally fully utilised daily and any last-minute requests will be at the Operations Manager’s absolute discretion.
• Usage of the Field Centre’s vehicles by authorised drivers will require the Director’s advance approval and the authorised driver must complete the record book provided.

Prior to your visit, and as part of the formal application process, you will be required to read and complete truthfully the Medical Disclosure Form. Please do not leave out any information as it is important for us to know of any past and/or existing medical conditions so that:

1. We will know if you require any additional attention in terms of dietary requirements; if you have any allergies or reactions to certain medications; if your vaccination status is up to date or sufficient; to prepare for the necessary actions to be taken in case of a medical emergency; and so forth.
2. If you have an existing condition that requires a specialist’s care, we will try to locate in advance any specialist to assist the doctor leading the case in Sabah. There are not many specialists in Sandakan. Most are based in Kota Kinabalu (specialist hospital nearest to DGFC is at least 2 hours away);
3. We can contact your family members/personal doctor/GP in case of an emergency.
4. We can assess (with the guidance of a medical advisor allocated by DGFC) if given a medical condition, DGFC can make reasonable adjustments and will be able to welcome you.

Your medical records will be kept confidential and only important information will be shared with key management staff so that they are aware and well-prepared. Please be informed that in a medical emergency we will share your medical information with the attending medical staff.

Health Care Guidelines

As far in advance as possible before departure, (ideally 6 months), it is strongly recommended that you consult with a travel health specialist regarding what immunisations and medications you should consider for your trip. We strongly recommend that you are vaccinated against tetanus, rabies, Japanese encephalitis, typhoid, poliomyelitis, diphtheria and hepatitis A and B, and COVID-19. The Field Centre’s Operations Manager (permanently based at the centre) and senior members of staff are trained in first aid and forest rescue. Reliable doctors are available in the nearby village if you are not feeling well during your stay. Please ensure you bring sufficient quantities of any medication you routinely use (e.g. inhalers for asthma or that you may need in an emergency; epipen or equivalent for strong allergic reactions -bee/wasp stings). You may wish to bring your own medicines for common ailments such as diarrhoea, colds etc. In case of emergency, the student/staff will be transported by boat to the nearest village (30 minutes boat trip to Batu Puteh) where our car (4x4) is available for transportation. The nearest hospital (Hospital Kota Kinabatangan) is about 30 minutes drive from Batu Puteh for minor intervention. For major intervention, the nearest hospital is in Sandakan, about 2 hours by car. Risk Assessments are provided to all long-term visitors and signed by them at the start of their stay.

Infectious disease transmission prevention

Frequent hand washing/sanitizing is encouraged, especially before meals and touching the shared cutlery. The wearing of masks/respirators for those showing flu-like symptoms in closed, crowded and small spaces is highly recommended. There must be designated clothing for field work. These designated field clothes should not be worn in common areas such as the canteen, library and offices. Showering after field work is highly recommended.

Sun and high temperatures, humidity

As we are near the equator, the sun is harsher than you may be used to, so you must avoid prolonged exposure to the sun. Apply high protection factor (SPF) sunscreen to exposed skin and wear a hat, and if necessary, protect the neck with a scarf or bandana. Heat rash/prickly heat can also be a common problem.

Dehydration

Fluid intake - make sure you drink plenty of clean fluids (at least 2 litres a day). To prevent dehydration, use rehydration solutions (e.g. Dioralyte) which can be bought in easy-to-use sachets containing a mixture of salts and glucose, and should be brought with you.

Malaria

Mosquitoes abound all year round and insect repellent is strongly recommended along with appropriate clothing to wear at dusk and dawn when mosquitoes are the most active. Please consult your GP or travel clinic regarding appropriate prophylactic tablets and the side effects of prolonged use of these medicines. If you are particularly sensitive to insect bites, please bring your own antihistamine cream and tablets. Symptoms include fever with chills, shivering or sweating, headache and feeling unwell, the most common error is to mistake malaria for flu. If you develop flu-like symptoms, even some time after returning from the tropics, you should consult your doctor or contact Interhealth (https://www.interhealthworldwide.org/) for a medical check-up.

Avoiding mosquito and other insect bites

The floodplain forest has a large population of mosquitoes, although only a few are potentially malarial. This risk does increase in populated areas, so precautions need to be taken to avoid being bitten, especially in the evenings. Prophylactic anti-malarial tablets do not provide total protection against malaria; avoiding mosquito bites is a more important strategy. As well as malaria, mosquitoes can transmit other diseases, including dengue fever and chikungunya fever. The best prevention is to avoid being bitten is:

• Clothing – Wear long sleeve shirts and long trousers in the forest, and in the evening.
• Mosquito netting – All the doors and windows at DGFC are covered in mosquito netting. If the doors/windows are kept closed at all times, there is normally no need for a mosquito net for your bed. However, if you wish to use one, you must bring one with you as they can be difficult to find in Sabah.
• Mosquito coils can be used at night to keep mosquitoes away. These are widely available in Sabah, but please exercise caution when leaving it burning. Electronic buzzers don’t work as power is limited and annoy others.

Rabies and animal-borne diseases

Do not approach any animal, domestic or wild. The rabies vaccination is a prophylaxis not a preventative, it will only allow you further time to seek treatment so you will need to receive immediate treatment if you have been bitten by a rabid animal.

Feet

Never walk barefoot outdoors, and always wear closed-toed shoes when in the forest.

Cuts and Grazes etc

Apply an anti-bacterial treatment (e.g. one containing cetrimide, such as Savlon) immediately and cover with a plaster or dressing. A good supply of plasters should be brought with you, but these can be readily bought in towns, we recommend fabric plasters as they stick better in the heat.

Diarrhea

Most cases of traveller’s diarrhea are caused by micro-organisms and clear up within 48-72 hours without any treatment, but preventing dehydration is the most important part of any treatment. If the symptoms do persist, seek professional care to receive a course of antibiotics as this is and effective and safe treatment for most forms of diarrheal illness. Anti-diarrheal agents may give some measure of relief; these include diphenoxylate with atropine (Lomotil) and loperamide hydrochloride (Imodium), though we do not recommend using these unless a situation requires it such as travelling on a long bus journey.

Water

Running water supply at the Field Centre is obtained by a pump from the river. The water is treated and is therefore clean and usable for washing, showering and brushing your teeth. Mineral water for drinking is available in dispensers in the Main Building to everyone.

Dietary Requirements

Vegetarians/Vegans – whilst we can accommodate vegetarians at DG, this is more difficult for Vegans. Please bear this in mind and bring your own food supplements to meet your protein and other nutritional requirements. This is especially important when in town as it can be more difficult to find suitable food there.

Emergency Contact

In case of urgent matters outside of daytime or waking hours, please take note of the Operations Manager’s and the Health and Safety Officer’s contact details and accommodation (refer to notice board in main building).

The following are suggestions only as you may have your own preferences. Please be mindful, however, that DGFC does not have spare items should the visitor not bring all the necessary for your stay to be safe and comfortable.

All field clothes should be in forest colours (greens/browns), as bright and colourful colours disturb wildlife. The best field clothes are long trousers (three pairs minimum) and loose long-sleeved shirts, often natural material which are cool and quick-drying such as cotton are suitable. Waterproofs should be in forest colours. Don’t buy expensive field clothes as these typically become stained or frayed, army surplus shops are a good source of cheap clothing. Malaysia is a predominantly Muslim country; therefore, women are required to dress modestly. Shoulders, stomach and legs must be covered, especially when in Batu Puteh and at the field centre (most of our staff are Muslim). We take this very seriously and you will be told to change your clothes if this requirement is not met.

Footwear

We recommend rubber/rain/gumboots, as the surrounding forest is often muddy or flooded. If you prefer hiking boots, we recommend lightweight (Season 2) hiking boots/shoes, which will give you sufficient support and protection. Don’t buy expensive or leather boots (too hot). Please ensure you have worn in your boots BEFORE you come to camp and that they are comfortable. To extend the life of your hiking boots before you come prepare and protect your boots by using a protective spray or shielding wax such as NIKWAX.

Electrical Equipment

Malaysia has a 230/240 Volts system. If your electrical appliance uses 110/120 volts, you will need to use a transformer/converter, as failing to do so will damage your electrical appliances. Malaysia uses the British Standard BS 1363 domestic AC power plugs and sockets. Between the hours of 1100 to 1400 and 1700 to 2300, a generator provides electricity for all areas of camp so there is plenty of time to charge phones and digital cameras. We recommend that you take care if you decide to bring any expensive electrical items/computers as the humidity and conditions are not suitable for them. We do recommend that you obtain some Silica Gel packets available from any good photography shops to keep with your cameras and other electrical items to help against the humidity.

Glasses or Contact Lens Wearers

If you wear contact lenses normally there should be no reason why you shouldn’t continue to do so during your stay, as long as you practice high levels of hygiene. However, we suggest it is a good idea to bring a pair of glasses in case your contacts trap any dirt during a field day or when you change them, so if needed you can give your eyes a rest. We recommend your glasses have plastic lenses and if you wear glasses bring a spare pair along as well.

SUGGESTED EQUIPMENT

• Raincoat
• Hat
• Small backpack (about 15-20 liters) for the field
• Binoculars (waterproof if possible)
• Compass
• Whistle
• Water bottle
• Pair of walking boots/Wellington rubber boots (the latter is recommended)
• Good torch light (i.e. maglite) + batteries
• Head torch (with red filter if possible)
• Waterproof watch
• Waterproof bag for your camera
• Personal note book (waterproof) and pens
• Penknife (i.e. Victorinox)
• Pair of sandals/flip flops
• Good sunglasses
• Sun cream
• Mosquito repellent
• Needle and sewing cotton
• Ecological toilet articles (soap, shampoo, toothpaste, talc, etc) and feminine hygiene products
• Personal medicine and first aid kit (suggestions below)
• At least three pairs of long field trousers (cotton/quick-dry if possible; dark colours, khaki)
• Tee-shirts and long sleeves shirts (cotton/quick-dry if possible; dark colours, khaki)
• A couple of tee-shirts and comfy trousers/cargo shorts for the evenings
• Cotton socks
• Cotton underwear, sleepwear
• Leech socks (optional)
• Personal mosquito net (optional)
• Batteries for camera, torches, chargers etc
• Your papers (passport, vaccination book, insurance, etc)
• A couple of books (that you can leave at the library)
• a USB stick/pen drive (that will allow you to copy pictures, data, etc)
• do not forget to bring “town/non-jungle clothes” for when you go on a visa run or go to town

DGFC provides sheets, pillow and pillowcases, blanket and towels.

SUGGESTED PERSONAL FIRST AID KIT

• Painkillers (aspirin/paracetamol/ibuprofen)
• Antihistamine creams/tablets for treatment of insect bites.
• Fungicidal cream/antifungal dusting powder.
• Plasters (band-aids)
• Eye drops
• Antiseptic wipes, cream or spray; or hand sanitizers
• Anti-malarial tablets
• Anti-diarrhoeal tablets
• Sachets of rehydration powders, such as Diarolyte (essential for replacing lost minerals from excessive perspiration)
• Insect repellents
• General broad spectrum antibiotic
• Talcum powder recommended for sweat rash
• Sun cream; after sun lotion and lip protection cream
• Support bandage - if you have had any previous ankle/knee injuries
• ‘Epi Pen’ for those with strong allergies to stings/bites/nuts etc. please consult with your GP
• Any personal medication that you normally bring e.g. asthma inhaler. Please bring spares.
• If you are concerned about your vitamin intake, then bring a supply of general-purpose multivitamin tablets.

Wi-Fi: Please note that our limited and intermittent Wi-Fi at the Field Centre is only available in the Main Building and to DGFC staff, Field Course Instructors, and long-stay visitors. A reasonable phone signal, however, can be found at the Jetty for those with international data roaming.

Mail: For long-stay visitors, packages from home can be sent to:

[Your name] / Professor Benoit Goossens
Danau Girang Field Centre
c/o Sabah Wildlife Department
5th Floor, Block B, Wisma MUIS,
88100, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia

It takes approximately 4 weeks for post to arrive in Kota Kinabalu and if you wish to mail home, it is relatively cheap to send letters from the post office in Sandakan.

If your family and friends wish to make use this service, please ask the sender to inform enquiries@danaugirang.com.my in advance, with the carrier’s tracking number if possible, so we can assist with any shipping or customs issues.

Telephone and Fax: There are no telephone or fax facilities in the Field Centre, Kinabatangan.

For any emergency, the contact persons in Kota Kinabalu are:

Prof. Benoit Goossens : +6012-836 4005 / goossensbr@cardiff.ac.uk Miss Audrey Adella Umbol : +6019-821 8872 / audrey.dgfc@gmail.com

When you arrive in Malaysia, you can purchase a SIM card for your mobile phone for approximately RM50, which allows you to send texts (SMS) and use Internet Data at a very reasonable rate. It works on a pay-as-you-go tariff. Before you leave, please check with your home country provider, if your mobile phone is locked or not, providers such as Orange lock their phones and it can take up to 2 weeks to unlock. Otherwise, it is also possible to purchase very basic smartphones for approximately RM100 or less in Sandakan or Kota Kinabalu.

Cost per person: For a quotation, please contact Prof. Benoit Goossens at goossensbr@cardiff.ac.uk.

Deposit (non-refundable) : 10% of total cost (payable upon registration)

Payment should be made by direct deposit to Danau Girang Field Centre. We will send details on the total amount payable, and how you can transfer money directly into the Centre’s account once the dates of your time at DGFC are confirmed.

Payment schedule

Accommodation cost will include:

• Accommodation (incl. linen and towels), laundry
• Food (full board) at the Field Centre
• Hot drinks and mineral water at the Field Centre
• Access to the equipment and facilities at the Field Centre
• Project administration and field staff
• Internet access (for long-stay visitors ONLY)

Payment will exclude:

• Flights (international and domestic).
• Travel and Medical Insurance.
• In-transit accommodation.
• Personal spending money.
• Personal kit (inc. toiletries, personal medical kits etc.).

Cancellation conditions:

If, after registration and payment of the deposit, you decide to cancel your participation for whatever reasons, please note that the deposit that you have paid to DGFC is non-refundable.

If DGFC decides to not accept your application for reasons it deems fit, the deposit will be refunded to you in full. Should you decide to cancel your place at DGFC, the following refund policy for the fee shall apply:

• If you cancel more than 8 weeks before the start date: a refund of any monies paid, less any payments made in respect of the individual’s participation at DGFC (e.g. project specific equipment).
• If you cancel less than 8 weeks before your start date: you will be refunded half of any monies paid; less any payments made in respect of the individual’s participation at DGFC (e.g. project specific equipment).
• If cancellation/withdrawal is made after the start-date: No refund will be given.
• Other conditions apply – see DGFC Terms and Conditions for further details.

Should you decide to shorten your stay at DGFC after arriving, the following shall apply:

• No refund of remaining nights will be given, unless under extenuating circumstances.
• Other conditions apply – see DGFC Terms and Conditions for further details.

1. DEFINITIONS

In these Standard Terms and Conditions, the following expressions shall have the meanings set out below: (a) “DGFC” shall mean the Danau Girang Field Centre (b) “Visitor” shall mean the person who has signed the Application Form and received written confirmation that they have been accepted at DGFC (c) “Attachment” shall mean the time spent at DGFC at which the Visitor has been accepted to travel and participate; (d) “Project Leaders” shall mean the Leaders of the Attachment appointed by DGFC and who represent DGFC during the duration of the Attachment; (e) “Payment” shall mean the total sum payable by the Visitor to participate as a Visitor at DGFC as specified.

2. ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF NATURE OF ATTACHMENT

(a) The Visitor acknowledges and accepts that the Attachment is designed to be primarily of scientific and educational benefit to the host country and do not have clearly defined timetables, itineraries and arrangements. Flexibility of timetables, itineraries and arrangements should not only be anticipated but expected. In agreeing to join and participate in the Attachment, the Visitor agrees to accept this flexibility and to be prepared for variation which may arise with little or no prior notice and acknowledges the right of DGFC to make alterations and variations.

(b) The Visitor hereby acknowledges and accepts that there is a significant element of personal risk and potential hazard involved in undertaking an Attachment of the nature organised by DGFC and whilst DGFC aims to safeguard the Visitor's safety, it cannot be held responsible for damage or injury caused by risks of hazards beyond its control. An indemnity agreement form will need to be signed before you arrive in DGFC.

3. FORCE MAJEURE

DGFC will incur no liability for any loss which a Visitor may suffer through cancellation or variation of an Attachment or a flight or flights due to fire, natural catastrophes (i.e flooding, pandemic), war, riot or civil commotion, strikes, quarantine, government or other official intervention or due to any reason whatsoever outside the control of DGFC. Visitors will be required to read and sign a Hazards Awareness form after safety training once they arrive in the field centre.

4. PAYMENT

(a) The deposit fee shall be paid to DGFC, to be returned or refunded if the Visitor is not accepted by DGFC.

(b) The Visitor agrees to pay the balance of the Payment by the dates specified in the application pack.

(c) Failure to pay the Deposit and/or the balance of the Payment by the due date(s) entitles DGFC to cancel the participation of the Visitor.

(d) After the commencement of the Attachment there can be no refund of the Payment or of any sums paid for services provided during the Attachment but not included in the Payment.

5. CANCELLATION BY VISITOR

Cancellation of a booking must be in writing. The date of cancellation for the purposes of the cancellation provisions below shall be the date of the receipt of the letter. Refunds of the Attachment fee will be made as specified in the application pack.

6. CANCELLATION BY DGFC

(a) DGFC reserves the right to cancel the Attachment and agrees to inform the Visitor in writing to the address supplied on the Application Form. If such cancellation is due to circumstances totally within the control of DGFC, DGFC agrees to refund the Visitor all monies already paid by the Visitor towards his/her payment only, and the Visitor agrees to accept such refund as being in full and final settlement of all and any of DGFC’s liability to the Visitor.

(b) The Visitor acknowledges that certain medical and/or mental health conditions as declared by the Visitor on all medical forms submitted to DGFC by the Visitor may be contra-indicatory to safe participation at DGFC by the Visitor, and DGFC reserves the right to refuse or cancel his/her Attachment based upon medical advice. If DGFC cancels a Student’s/Volunteer’s Course based upon medical advice received by the DGFC Medical Advisor(s), DGFC agrees to refund all monies paid by the Visitor towards his/her Payment only and the Visitor agrees to accept such refund as being in full and final settlement of all and any of DGFC’s liability to the Visitor.

(c) Once the Attachment has commenced, if the Visitor is found to have a pre-existing medical condition not declared on the submitted medical form, which is deemed by the Leader(s) to pose a risk to the Visitor, and/or the running of the Attachment and its remit, DGFC reserves the right to suspend the Visitor’s participation in the Attachment and if necessary asked to leave. There will be no payment, or any part of, refunded in this instance.

7. BEHAVIOUR ON ATTACHMENT

(a) The Visitor acknowledges that the duration of the Attachment aims to obtain useful information to assist the preservation of the natural environment under observation during the Attachment, and that therefore he/she expected to work under the supervision of the Project Leaders in a conscientious manner in order to assist in the compilation of this information.

(b) The Visitor agrees to abide by the authority of the Project Leaders and to follow all of their reasonable instructions.

(c) If the Visitor commits any illegal act during the Attachment at DGFC or if in the opinion of the Project Leaders the Visitor's behaviour is detrimental to the aims of DGFC or the safety or welfare of the other Visitors, he/she may require the Visitor to leave the DGFC within 24 hours’ notice and no liability on the part of DGFC shall arise whatsoever. No refunds will be given in this situation.

(d) If the Visitor damages, destroys or loses any item of equipment owned by DGFC the Visitor will be held liable for any costs not recovered through DGFC’s insurance.

8. COMPLIANCE WITH LEGAL REQUIREMENTS

The Visitor will comply with all legislation, visa, immigration, customs and foreign exchange regulations of the countries visited through the duration of the Attachment and travel within Sabah and Malaysia. In the event of a contravention by a Visitor of the laws of Malaysia, the Leaders shall have the right to require the Visitor to leave DGFC and no liability on the part of DGFC shall arise whatsoever.

9. COMPLAINTS

If a Visitor wishes to make a complaint and/or claim in relation to DGFC, the Visitor agrees to abide by the following procedure. (a) The Visitor will ensure that the matter has first been brought to the attention of the Project Leaders at the field centre, who will seek to resolve the claim. The Visitor will give DGFC a reasonable time within which to resolve the claim before proceeding further. (b) If due to an unresolved serious complaint the Visitor decides to leave DGFC before its completion the Visitor agrees to provide written evidence of the extent of the complaint to the Project Leaders before departure from the field centre. (c) In the event of a claim for compensation the Visitor agrees to lodge such a claim with the Project Leaders before the attachment's scheduled completion date and to provide written evidence of the extent of the complaint to the Project Leaders. (d) The Visitor agrees that under no circumstances shall DGFC be liable for damages or compensation arising from that part of any claim related to the individual’s assessment of inconvenience, discomfort, disappointment or loss of enjoyment.

10. INSURANCE

(a) The Visitor agrees to affect personal travel and medical insurance and agrees to be responsible for ensuring that such insurance cover fully meets their personal requirements and the minimum requirements as specified by DGFC.

(b) The Visitor acknowledges the importance of insurance provision in respect of their spouse, dependent children and/or relatives and accepts responsibility for assessing their own personal circumstances and arranging additional insurance cover that they personally deem to be necessary.

(c) The Visitor further agrees to ensure that their insurers are aware of the type of travel and work to be undertaken during the Attachment and accepts the insurance proposal upon such basis.

(d) The Visitor acknowledges and accepts that there is a significant element of personal risk and potential hazard involved in the use of watercraft during the Attachment and accepts that should they be placed in charge of a watercraft during the attachment they do so voluntarily and entirely at their own discretion. Furthermore, the Visitor agrees to waive all rights of action against DGFC and the Project Leaders thereof in the event of death and/or personal injury and/or property damage caused to them or by them and arising out of the use of watercraft and agrees to indemnify DGFC and the Leaders thereof in relation to any claim which may be made against them arising out of any act or omission by the Visitor.

11. WAIVER

No person save with the express authority in writing of two or more administrators of DGFC has authority or is empowered to waive or vary any of these conditions.

12. INFORMATION

All the information contained in any information published by DGFC relating to the Attachment is as far as DGFC is aware true and accurate at the time of writing. If any material alterations have to be made or in DGFC’s view need to be made before departure in order to maintain the quality of the Attachment, the Visitor will be informed.

13. PASSPORT, VISAS, VACCINATIONS, ETC.

The Visitor must be in possession of a valid passport and all visas, permits and certificates required for the entire duration of the Attachment and must also arrange to obtain whatever vaccinations are normally recommended for the countries through which the Attachment is scheduled to travel. Any information given by DGFC about healthcare, vaccinations, visas, climate, clothing, baggage, special equipment and other matters is given in good faith, but without responsibility on the part of DGFC.

14. INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY

(a) All scientific data collected during the Attachment remains the property of DGFC and may be analysed, published and otherwise distributed by DGFC with no prior consultation with the Visitor. DGFC agrees to acknowledge the contribution by the Visitor in the collection of scientific data and subsequent analysis if appropriate.

(b) The Visitor agrees to provide DGFC with copies of photos, reports, articles or other written material arising from the Attachment and produced by them. No information, reports or other materials whether written or photographic may be published or otherwise distributed, including on Facebook and other social networks, without prior consultation with and consent of DGFC. The Visitor shall retain intellectual copyright over any report or article written by them but must acknowledge the role of DGFC in producing such material.

(c) Photographing animal handling procedures must be agreed with, and approved by, the project leader and/or DGFC’s director previously; these pictures cannot be posted in social media or any other public platform, unless it is through DGFC’s official channels.

15. DEFAMATION

The Visitor agrees not to defame the Project Leaders or any other members of DGFC by any means, whether in print or verbally.