Profile information
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Host rating
Not yet rated
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Last replied
10 Jul 2026
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Reply rate
100.0 %
Usually responds within 10 days
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Feedback
2
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ID verified
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Email verified
Badges (4)
Min stay requested: 1 week or less
Details
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Description
We are a small, heart-led team running a slow living guesthouse and creative community space in Papar, Sabah.
The space is founded and managed by Ann, who has a background in yoga, handmade craft, and community market organising. She focuses on community building, creative projects, and hosting guests.
William supports the space with logistics, maintenance, and practical operations. Together, we run the guesthouse in a simple and personal way.
We also collaborate with local friends, artisans, and market vendors during community events and weekend markets.
We are not a large commercial business — we value slow living, genuine connection, and meaningful cultural exchange. Volunteers will work closely with us in a relaxed, respectful, and supportive environment. -
Types of help and learning opportunities
Charity Work
Art Projects
Help with Eco Projects
Light gardening
Creative DIY projects
Help around the house
Hospitality/Tourism
Light maintenance
Help with Computers/ Internet
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Interests
Van life
Self development
Sustainability
Plant care
Writing
Languages
Gardening
Drawing & painting
DIY & crafts
Cooking & food
Astronomy
Art & design
Animals
Yoga / Wellness
Nature
Beach -
Cultural exchange and learning opportunities
You would learn about Malaysia's multicultural community, local food, traditional markets and slow living hospitality.
Cultural exchange happens naturally here through daily life, conversations and working together in a repectful and open environment. -
Help
We need your help with wall painting, murals and decorating our new lodge and space.
If you enjoy upcycling, sustainable arts, or simply love sharing stories over a cup of coffee and blending into our local community. you are more than welcome here. -
Languages spoken
English: Fluent
Malay: Fluent
Chinese (Mandarin): Fluent
Chinese (Cantonese): Fluent -
Accommodation
We offer a bed in a dorm room with a shared bathroom, and cooking is fully allowed.
Instead of fixed daily meals, we provide basic cooking ingredients in the shared kitchen so you can whip up your own food. We find this arrangement gives our Workawayers a lot more flexibility and comfort during their stay! -
What else ...
Papar is a charming, laid-back town that offers a perfect mix of local culture, nature, and peaceful vibes. When you aren't helping out, there is plenty to explore:
Explore Papar Old Town: Take a stroll through our town center to see the classic wooden shoplots, vibrant local markets, and beautiful community street murals. It’s a fantastic place for photography and soaking in the local lifestyle.
Tamu (Weekly Open-Air Market): If you are here on a market day, visiting the bustling local tamu is a must. You can sample traditional Sabahan snacks, buy fresh local produce, and see unique local handicrafts.
Nature & Sunsets: We are surrounded by beautiful landscapes, from quiet rivers to scenic countryside views. It’s a great area for relaxing walks or catching stunning Bornean sunsets.
Cafes & Local Eats: Try traditional food spots and coffee shops around town—local vendors are incredibly friendly and always happy to chat.
Transport & Getting Around
Getting to and from our Lodge, as well as exploring the wider region, is quite straightforward:
The Train: Papar is connected by a scenic local railway line. Taking the train is a nostalgic, affordable, and highly recommended way to travel and see the countryside.
Minibuses & Buses: Local minibuses (bas kilang or bas berhenti-henti) run regularly and can take you into town or to nearby areas.
E-Hailing: Ride-sharing apps (like Grab) are readily available in the region for convenient, direct trips.
What to Bring
To make your stay comfortable, we recommend packing:
Comfortable, lightweight clothing (perfect for our tropical weather).
A reusable water bottle and mosquito repellent for outdoor exploring.
An open mind and a love for community life! -
A little more information
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Internet access
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Limited internet access
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We have pets
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We are smokers
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Can host families
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Can host digital nomads
This host has indicated that they love having digital nomads stay.
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How many Workawayers can stay?
More than two
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My animals / pets
Jojo
Chat with Workawayers who've visited this host
Feedback (1)
The hosts are very humorous and have such positive energy. We spent a lot of time joking, laughing, and … read more
She was the first Workaway helper at our hostel. She is exceptionally hardworking, independent, and easygoing, but what truly makes her special is her deep sensitivity and connection to the space and community.
She completely immersed herself in the slow, beautiful pace of … read more
Photos
Chat with Workawayers who've visited this host
Feedback
The hosts are very humorous and have such positive energy. We spent a lot of time joking, laughing, and … read more
She was the first Workaway helper at our hostel. She is exceptionally hardworking, independent, and easygoing, but what truly makes her special is her deep sensitivity and connection to the space and community.
She completely immersed herself in the slow, beautiful pace of … read more
