An introductory trip to Borneo

Jacha's first visit to Sepilok as chairman of Orangutan Appeal UK

Supporting Orangutans

Jacha, his wife Gwyn and all the team at Betws Railway Station are long time supporters of Orangutan Appeal UK.

In June 2015 Jacha was asked to become an ambassador of the charity, a role he happily accepted. In 2020 he was asked to join the board of trustees. On the retirement of founder Sue Sheward MBE at the beginning of the year, Jacha became the chairman.

First visit to Borneo after covid

Due to the coronavirus pandemic of course no-one from UK based Orangutan Appeal UK could visit Borneo for two years. With restrictions lifting in June it was important for Jacha and Adrienne (charity manager) to visit the team. It was also a good opportunity to introduce Jacha as the new Chairman of Orangutan Appeal UK.

Building relationships

While in Borneo, Jacha and Adrienne met with the director of Sabah Wildlife Department, Mr Augustine Tuuga. It was a very positive and supportive meeting for the ongoing working relationship between OAUK and SWD.

There were also successful meetings with Benoit Goosens of Danau Girang Field Centre and Dr Wong Siew of the Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre. It’s important to build relationships with other conservation organisations after all working together with them will make the best impact.

Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre

Of course the main reason for travelling to Borneo was to visit Sepilok. Jacha and Adrienne were able to see the orphaned orangutans that are going through rehabilitation at the centre. Some of these orangutans are in the Appeal’s adoption programme.