Borneo's Tropical Botany

Micherwen – fondly known as Mike – hails from Kampung Sungai Damit near Membakut along Sabah’s west coast, where his childhood encounters with Proboscis Monkeys, hornbills and the rich tapestry of riverine and lowland forest plants first sparked a deep fascination with Borneo’s natural world. Even as a young boy he was drawn not only to wildlife but also to the extraordinary diversity of the surrounding vegetation, learning to recognise forest trees, useful plants and flowering species long before guiding became a profession.

His journey into guiding began from humble beginnings, driven by a genuine passion to learn and to share the natural wonders of his homeland. Early in his career, Mike honed his skills across Sabah, steadily deepening his knowledge of rainforest botany – from towering dipterocarps and strangling figs to delicate orchids, medicinal plants and the ecological relationships linking them to the forest’s mammals, birds and insects.

Mike eventually found his place at a prestigious lodge in Danum Valley, where his exposure to world‑class researchers and botanists greatly expanded his understanding of Borneo’s rainforest ecology. His time there not only strengthened his botanical expertise but also instilled in him a commitment to delivering guiding services of the highest standard – a quality he continues to uphold with dedication and professionalism.

From the lush forests of Sabah to Sarawak, including the renowned Mulu UNESCO World Heritage Site, Mike has become a trusted and knowledgeable guide whose grounding in both wildlife and plant ecology makes him an exceptional choice for travellers seeking a deeper understanding of the rainforest. His ability to interpret the forest through its plants – whether identifying trees by scent, explaining pollination strategies, or revealing the ethnobotanical uses of herbs and lianas – enriches every walk he leads.

Mike’s tenacity, humility and hard‑working nature have made him a sought‑after companion for travellers looking for immersive, meaningful experiences in Borneo. He connects easily with guests, sharing his passion for everything from orchids to mammals, and weaving botanical insights seamlessly into wildlife encounters. Trips under his leadership are filled with memorable moments and thoughtful interpretation, particularly valued by guests with an interest in botany.

Today, Mike leads trips for some of the most respected brands in the adventure travel industry, showcasing his expertise and his commitment to delivering exceptional Bornean nature experiences. His journey – from a small village near Membakut to becoming a widely respected naturalist and guide –— exemplifies his perseverance, his passion for the forest, and his dedication to promoting the extraordinary biodiversity of Sabah to the world.

Micherwen – fondly known as Mike – hails from Kampung Sungai Damit near Membakut along Sabah’s west coast, where his childhood encounters with Proboscis Monkeys, hornbills and the rich tapestry of riverine and lowland forest plants first sparked a deep fascination with Borneo’s natural world. Even as a young boy he was drawn not only to wildlife but also to the extraordinary diversity of the surrounding vegetation, learning to recognise forest trees, useful plants and flowering species long before guiding became a profession.

His journey into guiding began from humble beginnings, driven by a genuine passion to learn and to share the natural wonders of his homeland. Early in his career, Mike honed his skills across Sabah, steadily deepening his knowledge of rainforest botany – from towering dipterocarps and strangling figs to delicate orchids, medicinal plants and the ecological relationships linking them to the forest’s mammals, birds and insects.

Mike eventually found his place at a prestigious lodge in Danum Valley, where his exposure to world‑class researchers and botanists greatly expanded his understanding of Borneo’s rainforest ecology. His time there not only strengthened his botanical expertise but also instilled in him a commitment to delivering guiding services of the highest standard – a quality he continues to uphold with dedication and professionalism.

From the lush forests of Sabah to Sarawak, including the renowned Mulu UNESCO World Heritage Site, Mike has become a trusted and knowledgeable guide whose grounding in both wildlife and plant ecology makes him an exceptional choice for travellers seeking a deeper understanding of the rainforest. His ability to interpret the forest through its plants – whether identifying trees by scent, explaining pollination strategies, or revealing the ethnobotanical uses of herbs and lianas – enriches every walk he leads.

Mike’s tenacity, humility and hard‑working nature have made him a sought‑after companion for travellers looking for immersive, meaningful experiences in Borneo. He connects easily with guests, sharing his passion for everything from orchids to mammals, and weaving botanical insights seamlessly into wildlife encounters. Trips under his leadership are filled with memorable moments and thoughtful interpretation, particularly valued by guests with an interest in botany.

Today, Mike leads trips for some of the most respected brands in the adventure travel industry, showcasing his expertise and his commitment to delivering exceptional Bornean nature experiences. His journey – from a small village near Membakut to becoming a widely respected naturalist and guide –— exemplifies his perseverance, his passion for the forest, and his dedication to promoting the extraordinary biodiversity of Sabah to the world.