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Volunteer Programs in Malaysia

Diversity and contrast describe this small but vibrant country in the heart of Southeast Asia. Malaysia offers volunteering opportunities for every taste and interest: from wildlife projects in the untamed jungle of Borneo to teaching English to children in urban environments. What makes it even better? The size and location of the country turn it into the perfect place for traveling and exploring the wonders of Southeast Asia. Volunteering in Malaysia is truly a great option for avid travelers looking for an original volunteer experience abroad.
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22 Volunteer Programs in Malaysia

Raleigh International

Raleigh International

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Venturer Manager: Health and Wellbeing Coordinator

Join our team of Venturer Managers as a Health and Wellbeing Coor...

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GoEco - Top Volunteer Organization

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GoEco - Top Rated & Award Winning Volunteer Programs Abroad

GoEco is one of the world’s top volunteer organizations, with award-winning and ethical programs selected by sustainable travel experts. Since 2006, tens of thousands of volunteers have taken part in projects and internships worldwide, focusing on wildlife and marine conservation, education, and medical initiatives. GoEco operates in over 50 countries, providing unique cultural immersive experiences that aim to make a positive impact on the environment and society. The organization also offers internships and academic programs for students. GoEco provides safe and meaningful experiences while promoting sustainable travel and reducing carbon emissions.

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International Volunteer HQ [IVHQ]

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Worlds #1 Volunteer Programs. 40+ Countries from $20/day!

At International Volunteer HQ (IVHQ), we unite people from over 96 countries who want to make a meaningful difference while exploring the world. With 300+ projects in 40+ destinations, IVHQ offers the widest selection of volunteer programs globally—from Teaching and Childcare to Wildlife Conservation, Medical Outreach, and Environmental Sustainability. Since 2007, IVHQ has supported over 147,000 volunteers on life-changing journeys. We specialize in fully-hosted volunteer trips that are safe, affordable, and accessible—starting from just $20 per day. Your experience includes airport pick-up, accommodation, meals, and round-the-clock support from our local teams. With flexible booking options and no change fees, planning your volunteer adventure has never been easier. Our programs run year-round and are available for 1 to 24 weeks across Africa, Asia, Europe, the Pacific, South and Central America, North America, the Caribbean, and the Middle East. Volunteering with IVHQ is about more than giving back—it’s about growing, learning, and building genuine global connections.

Roots Interns

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Community Development Internship Abroad

Make a direct contribution to positive change by supporting local organizations working to improve lives through community-based projects. Community development internships through Roots Interns take place in diverse regions such as Malawi, South Africa, Brazil, Ecuador, Zambia, and beyond, offering hands-on involvement in grassroots initiatives that focus on education, environmental awareness, youth empowerment, and social justice. Whether you’re leading activities with local youth, supporting refugee programs, or helping launch sustainable tourism efforts, your work will have a meaningful impact. These internships are ideal for students and recent graduates looking to build practical experience in areas such as program coordination, mentorship, communication, research, or nonprofit development. With placements starting at a minimum of 4 to 12 weeks, and flexible start dates throughout the year, you'll find an internship that aligns with your academic schedule and interests. From remote options to fully immersive in-country experiences, each opportunity is tailored to match your skills and learning goals while giving you a deeper understanding of social change from the ground up.

Volunteer World

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Volunteer World: Best Volunteer Abroad Programs Worldwide

Looking to apply your talent and expertise to a good cause? Find a program that matches your interests and skills through Volunteer World! We are the largest volunteer abroad comparison platform around the globe, enabling you to seek and compare offers from major travel agencies as well as smaller grassroots NGOs and local specialists in more than 80 countries. All these with just one click! Find projects in wildlife, teaching, community development, and several other areas. Simply choose your desired destination and desired travel date, and our search engine will compare the best volunteer abroad programs on your behalf. Whether you wish to gain experience at a wildlife sanctuary in South Africa or teach English at a monastery in Nepal, we've got you covered. Volunteer World guarantees a quick and easy application. We will guide you through this process, as well as help plan your next meaningful trip. We provide free access to quality-checked projects and flexible options. And if anything goes wrong, we've got your back with our qualified support team and our refund guarantee.

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Globalteer

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Volunteer in Borneo at a Marine Conservation Project

The Borneo Marine Conservation Project is located on the paradise island of Pom Pom, where you’ll live in individual tents on the beach and scuba dive every day in crystal-clear waters. If you haven’t already acquired PADI certification, don’t worry. This is included in the placement! Volunteers at this project must be aged 18+ and be confident swimmers. The project focuses on protecting and replanting coral reefs damaged by 45 years of illegal blast fishing around the islands of the Celebes Sea, Malaysian Borneo. Damaged reefs offer no hiding places for reef fish and blast rubble scattered over the reef leaves bare sand, which supports few species. Through raising environmental awareness, campaigning for tighter restrictions on illegal fishing, and volunteer conservation efforts, the project creates solutions to these problems and aids in the recovery of the reef and the greater ocean environment. By collecting fragments of hard and soft corals and transplanting them into damaged areas, volunteers are aiding the recovery of these habitats and increasing biodiversity.

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The Great Projects

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Orangutan Conservation Project in Borneo

Want to make a difference to orangutan conservation efforts? Join our flagship project and volunteer at the world-renowned Matang Wildlife Centre! The Great Projects was founded on the belief that there is a better way to holiday: as well as proudly offering phenomenal experiences in destinations such as Borneo, we work with a number of exceptional organisations worldwide in the hopes of aiding the conservation of endangered wildlife species. By becoming a volunteer on this project, you will have the opportunity to join a team of passionate conservationists in their efforts to provide a safe haven for Borneo’s threatened orangutans. The Matang Wildlife Centre serves as a temporary home for animals which have suffered as a result of mass deforestation and the illegal pet trade. Activities such as enclosure maintenance and enrichment each contribute to the orangutans’ care, and as a volunteer you will be instrumental in helping to improve their quality of life by lending your support. This is a fantastic opportunity to discover what it takes to protect one of the world’s most at-risk species, all from a unique perspective. To learn more about this project, contact us today!

Oyster Worldwide

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Conservation Volunteering in Borneo

Growing human populations and increasing destruction of natural habitats is a constant risk to the survival of many incredible species. This programme is a great opportunity for volunteers to make a real difference to wildlife. It aims to help protect and regenerate the habitats of many animals. Work in the rainforest that is full of exotic animals, close to the river Kinabatangan, and help to maintain its beauty. Volunteers can expect to head out on jungle explorations to learn about the complex ecosystem. They will also work with local communities to help them in a variety of sustainable environmental projects. There will also be an opportunity for volunteers to visit the famous Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre. Based in a small village, this programme allows volunteers to become immersed in the culture of the Orang Sungai people and to live in a stunning riverside location.

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Upcycle4Better

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Learn about Textile Recovery Process & Inspire Change

Welcome to Upcycle4Better! Do you know that the textile industry is the second most polluted after oil & gas? Let's come and join us to learn how we promote textile recovery and sustainability (no greenwashing) We offer: Comfortable Accommodation Culture exchange (cooking & language classes etc.) Meals provided Access to a Car No prior experience is required—just an eagerness to learn and contribute to a greener world. Daily routine - from Monday to Friday (9-4 pm): Activities Offered: 1) Induction & Onboarding 2) Education/Training about Textile Recovery 3) DIY Workshop 4) Factory Tour (the process of textile recovery) 5) Local Immersion (cooking class & language lesson) 6) Green Campaign & station games about sustainability We can provide certificates & reference on LinkedIn too! Please note that the area isn’t very walkable, but we provide indoor cycling equipment and a yoga mat so you can stay active and exercise comfortably on-site.

Tropical Research and Conservation Centre

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TRACC: Volunteer Program in Malaysia

Join TRACC as a volunteer to support marine conservation and restoration efforts. Engage in various activities such as coral reef restoration, turtle conservation, and environmental education. This role is perfect for passionate individuals eager to contribute to environmental sustainability while experiencing life on a beautiful island. Responsibilities: Participate in coral reef restoration projects Assist in turtle conservation, including egg collection and hatchling release Support environmental education for local communities Help with daily camp operations and maintenance Engage in community outreach and awareness programs Benefits: Gain hands-on experience in marine conservation Contribute to impactful environmental projects Develop skills in research and community engagement Enjoy living in a unique, beautiful island setting Join TRACC in making a significant impact on marine conservation. Apply now to become part of our dedicated team.

PULIHARA

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Volunteer on a Tropical Island to Save Turtles and Corals!

Ever wondered how turtle conservation and coral rehabilitation work? Interested in learning about them? Want to feel what it's like living off-grid on a tropical island surrounded by stunning blue ocean? Well, this volunteering program is precisely for you! Join our team as a volunteer on Lang Tengah Island in Malaysia, where we work to protect, monitor and study marine turtles, save their nests from poachers and monitor lizards, and help rehabilitate the coral reef fringing the island. Join us on nightly patrols looking for nesting turtles, relocating their eggs for safe incubation, and collecting scientific data to further our understanding of these majestic creatures. Witness the beautiful moment of baby sea turtles scampering towards the ocean. Dive into the bright blue waters to enjoy our marine ecosystem and understand the threats they face. Experience life off-grid at our research station on Lang Tengah Island and learn more about the surrounding ecosystem that makes our world beautiful. Join us today and be a part of our wonderful team!

A Guide to Volunteering Abroad in Malaysia

Locations

Malaysia is the gateway to Southeast Asia, consisting of two land masses separated by the South China Sea. Peninsular or West Malaysia is linked by land to Thailand in the north, and East Malaysia across the sea on the island of Borneo. Due to its size and diversity, Malaysia is a great country to explore (on top of voluntary work of course!). Volunteers can go trekking in the jungle in the search for tigers and orangutans or relax on its beaches and islands during time off, or maybe even find a volunteer placement that requires it.

In the peninsula of Malaysia, you’ll find the nation’s capital, Kuala Lumpur. Nicknamed KL, Kuala Lumpur is a vibrant global city with a remarkable skyline and endless shopping opportunities, for all you shopaholic volunteers. Without losing its Asian and exotic personality, the central city of KL is comparable in many ways to Western capitals.

On the other side, Malaysian Borneo or East Malaysia is isolated to the island of Borneo, which is an oasis of rugged, dense rainforest and pristine waters and internationally renowned for its dive spots. Life on the island of Borneo is laid-back, and the landscape is jaw-dropping. The territory is divided into three parts: Sabah, Sarawak and Labuan. Of all the places to volunteer in Malaysia, Borneo is the best place for nature and animal lovers.

Malaysia also has a handful of beautiful heritage cities, like Malacca or George Town, on the island of Penang, and these cities aren’t world-recognized heritage sites for no good reason! Away from the big city lights, volunteers can also discover the fascinating jungle surroundings in incredible spots like Taman Negara.

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Frequently Asked Questions

The best programs in Malaysia connect you with local communities, focusing on education, wildlife conservation, and sustainability. Look for projects that prioritize cultural exchange and meaningful impact over just short-term involvement.

Malaysia is generally safe for volunteers when following local guidelines and staying aware of your surroundings. Choosing well-organized programs with clear support systems can enhance both safety and your overall experience.

Costs can vary but typically include housing, meals, transport, and program fees. Additional expenses might cover travel insurance, flights, and personal spending. Budget carefully, as rural placements may cost less but involve extra travel.

Start by reaching out to community-led initiatives and NGOs directly, or search through trusted platforms. Networking with past volunteers and joining relevant social media groups can also uncover hidden gems.

Requirements vary, but common ones include a valid visa, basic English skills, and a genuine commitment to the cause. Some projects may request background checks or specialized skills, especially in teaching or conservation roles.

Latest Program Reviews

A life changing experience

December 13, 2025by: Irene Neal - CanadaProgram: Worlds #1 Volunteer Programs. 40+ Countries from $20/day!
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I was looking for an escape from my comfortable lifestyle at home in Canada. I wanted to share my passion helping others less fortunate than myself. I searched international volunteering programs, have volunteered in four countries in 2025, and can truly say these experiences have changed my life. How do you feel when an elderly person in a old people's home in Zambia begs you to stay with them and share stories and smiles? What happens to you when the school children in Ghana hug you so tight you lose your breath? What overtakes your mind when you introduce positive ideas to women in an impoverished village in Sri Lanka, and see them take possession of new personal empowerment? Let me tell you. It grabs you by the heart and nourishes your soul. It makes you want to come back again and again. Which is exactly what I plan to do in 2026.

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