This International Women’s Day 2026, it is important to shine a light on extraordinary women from all walks of life. One such woman is Telin Kaloni, from Kampung Menangkin Tengah, Sri Aman, Sarawak, who proves that leadership, courage, and love for nature know no gender.

A Woman Community Leader

Beyond her role as a mother and active member of her community, Telin has served as tuai rumah (headwoman) since 2020, a demanding role in Dayak society that calls for insight, courage and the confidence of those around her. By stepping into this position, she defies the usual gender norms of leadership, showing that women are equally capable of guiding with excellence.

“Leadership is not about being a man or a woman, but about responsibility to the community,” she said.

Meet Telin Kaloni, a committed community leader who is passionate in conserving nature. © Ezen Chan / WWF-Malaysia

An Explorer Since Childhood

Her journey began in childhood, immersed in the customs, spirituality and deep connection her community shares with nature. At just 10 years old, Telin embarked on her first climb to Gunung Lesong near where she resides, an experience that left a lasting mark on her life. That moment ignited a lifelong passion for exploring forests, caves, waterfalls and sacred sites, documenting the natural and cultural heritage of her people.

What distinguishes Telin from others is her unwavering spirit and dedication. Over the years, she has climbed Gunung Lesong about 20 times. Each journey she takes is done with care and purpose. She observes wildlife, studies the forest, protects important historical sites and keeps the stories of her ancestors alive. Through her work, she connects the past with the present and helps her community stay close to the land that sustains them.

“Every journey in the forest teaches me about life and respect for nature.” she added.

First hike when Telin (left) to Gunung Lesong. Photo courtesy Telin Kaloni.

Her second hike to Gunung Lesong. Photo courtesy Telin Kaloni.

Even now, Telin continues to explore different parts of Gunung Lesong with her family members. With every step, their understanding of the land deepens, and so does their bond with one another. What began as a hike has become a shared tradition and a way of honouring nature, preserving story, and passing down a love for the forest to the next generation. Photo courtesy Telin Kaloni

A Nature Conservation Advocate

Telin is involved in conservation work with organisations such as WWF-Malaysia including tracking orangutan nests and documenting flora and fauna. These efforts help protect forest biodiversity for future generations.

For Telin, the forest has its heritage, sanctuary and teachers. Gunung Lesong is a breathtaking landscape and a place that calms the soul, inspires reflection, and reminds us to honour our roots and our responsibilities to the world around us.

“The forest does not belong to us alone; it is a loan for our grandchildren”, she stated.

An International Women’s Day Inspiration

Telin’s story is also a reflection of countless rural women whose contributions often go unseen. Quietly, they lead communities, protect tradition and safeguard the environment. Their work is shaping the future while leaving little recognition for themselves.

This International Women’s Day, Telin’s journey reminds us of the power of giving to gain. By dedicating her time, energy and expertise to leadership; cultural preservation and environmental protection; she inspires all of us to recognise that true impact comes from giving selflessly and in return, we all gain a richer, more sustainable world.

Her courage, perseverance and devotion to the Earth make her a living testament that women are not just equal to men but they are essential guardians of our planet and our heritage.

“If we protect nature, nature will protect us.” she remarked.

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About WWF-Malaysia
World Wide Fund for Nature Malaysia (WWF-Malaysia) was established in 1972 and is part of World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF), the international conservation organisation. Working to sustain the natural world for the benefit of people and nature, WWF-Malaysia’s efforts to conserve nature focus on six major themes: forests, oceans, wildlife, food, climate and energy, as well as freshwater. Our mission is to stop the degradation of the earth’s natural environment and to build a future in which humans live in harmony with nature.

Find our latest news here: https://www.wwf.org.my/media_and_information/media_centre_and_updates/

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Telin Kaloni, the Female Protector of Nature