Written by Rachel Leong (Sabah Landscapes Programme Communications Assistant), based on an interview with Isaac. 

From solving equations in lecture halls to trekking through the vibrant forests of Sabah, this is the story of an intern who joined the Sabah Landscapes Programme (SLP) for 6 months, trading textbooks for tree seedlings to contribute to forest restoration efforts in Sabah. 

Isaac grew up in Penampang, a district in Sabah. As a child, he was drawn to mathematics, finding joy in calculation and problem-solving as his classmates memorised biology terms. This deep-rooted passion led him to pursue a Bachelor's Degree in Mathematics with a focus on economics at Universiti Malaysia Sabah. 

So, how did a math major end up in conservation? 

“While looking for an internship placement, a family member suggested that I apply to WWF-Malaysia. From what I know, the organisation works with flora and fauna, so I wasn’t sure if I’d fit into the role, considering my background,” recalled Isaac. “Luckily, they were looking for someone who could manage data.” 

Isaac became a part of the Restore team. With active sites in the Tawau-Kunak, Tabin, and Lower Sugut landscapes, the Restore team’s work focuses on reconnecting fragmented habitats and restoring degraded forests and riparian reserves. Their efforts aim to bridge isolated wildlife populations and create healthier, more resilient ecosystems. 

 

Isaac at Mount Wullersdorf for data collection. © WWF-Malaysia

When he landed the position, Isaac initially thought that he’d only be working at a desk, staring at numbers all day. But the Restore team had other plans. “When I moved to Tawau, I was clueless. This was the first time I’d ever been there.” But even when pushed out of his comfort zone, he persevered. 

Soon, he found himself relocating to the opposite end of Sabah. Trips to Mount Wullersdorf and Bagahak Ecological Corridor, which he initially thought were simply a formality, became more frequent. Isaac utilised Survey123, a tool for data collection, to record data on planted tree seedlings: their species, coordinates, condition, and surrounding environment. For days, he trudged through muddy terrain in unpredictable weather in this immersive fieldwork.  

“We would enter the forest on a hot and sunny day. And before we knew it, the rain came pouring down.” He laughed, remembering the times where they had to shield their equipment from the downpour. 

Data analysis with RStudio. © WWF-Malaysia 

Back at the office, another challenge began. Isaac would go through large datasets, sifting through thousands of entries of uncleaned data, guided by his supervisor and prior classroom experience. Data cleaning is vital in ensuring the integrity of the collected data – the adage ‘garbage in provide facts on what works and what doesn’t garbage out’ emphasised the need for good data to be used in analysis. Afterwards, he would visualise the data, revealing patterns that ease the process of identifying solutions. Data management is key to conservation efforts; these numbers show us facts on what’s working and what’s not, shaping future restoration strategies. 

Isaac’s visualised data was presented to the SLP team. © WWF-Malaysia 

All jobs come with their own challenges. But for Isaac, these hardships are what gave him unforgettable memories. Collecting data in the forest and long car rides between sites felt like field trips with friends. Time flies with constant chatter and laughter filling the air; there was never a dull moment with the team. “The teamwork between us made the work fun.” 

Isaac helping a member of Sabah Forestry Department with Survey123. © WWF-Malaysia 

His six-month internship opened doors beyond Isaac’s expectations. First-hand experience of collecting, managing, and visualising raw data has exposed him to real-world applications of theories taught in school, whereas meeting and working with different teams within WWF-Malaysia, as well as stakeholders and international guests, has built his confidence. Most of all, it helped him uncover a newfound appreciation for Sabah’s natural landscapes. 

“Before this internship, I used to think the forest was a dangerous place,” Isaac reflected. “But after visiting places like Mount Wullersdorf, I look forward to joining more expeditions. I will miss the atmosphere of working together with my teammates in these forests.” 

Isaac with the Restore team. © WWF-Malaysia 

Isaac’s internship journey with WWF-Malaysia’s Sabah Landscapes Programme may have ended, but his work continues to shape the future of conservation in Sabah. He took a leap of faith, not knowing how things would unfold. However, that first step led him to a role where his skills in numbers and data management became essential in the restoration of our precious forests by helping to track progress, refine strategies, and ensure the integrity of conservation work. Through muddy boots, long treks, and countless spreadsheets, Isaac showed remarkable perseverance and quiet bravery. By embracing the unknown and adapting to the wild, Isaac proved that meaningful impact often begins with stepping outside your comfort zone, and that even in the heart of the forest, numbers can tell a powerful story. 

Are you interested in becoming an intern with the Sabah Landscapes Programme? Send in your resume at contactslp@wwf.org.my.