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Host rating
80 %
Last replied
2 Dec 2025
Feedback
70
ID verified
Email verified
Badges (5)
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Details
Description
5th edit.
In 2018 this was a jungle. We have slowly transformed this hillside into a liveable and fairly cozy place. Visitors have suggested we share our experience as we developed this place.
In a place away from the city, with no air-conditioning or closed environment, just open air and direct sun! 😎 ...or thunderstorms and strong winds, we are (again), offering limited space for those who would like to participate in restarting an effort towards sustainable practices.
Due to certain events our precious efforts remain unfinished and have gone into various stages of disrepair.
From having many people and vibrant, it is down to 1 . It's a bit lonely and suitable for those at peace alone surrounded by nature.
The first real project would be removing the overgrown vegetable plots to start growing edibles and basic gardening.
You get locally equipped kitchen and a cranky washing machine.
There use to be live-in caretakers who would cook but now down to one who would come back every other night or so. I am usually there in the day.
You also will partially experience our way of life, values and customs as we go through our daily routines. There may be opportunities to participate in impromptu/seasonal events, gatherings, excursions, local activities or adventures and recommend you accept and go with the flow.
We are close to the border of Thailand, so it could be your first stop arriving in Malaysia, or your last stop before going to Thailand.
Nearest train station would be Anak Bukit, nearest bus station would be Tanah Merah Jitra (but easier to get to Shahab Perdana Alor Setar) and airport, Sultan Abdul Halim (domestic only). Grab/taxi service will be up to 30 Ringgit depending where you are from.
Nearby places (within 5km)
Shops/pharmacy
Clinics
Banks
Restaurants
Airport 7.5km
Train station 10km
Internet cafe (local town 3km)
We have 4G internet connection but we do not have WiFi.
Types of help and learning opportunities
Art Projects
Language practice
Help with Eco Projects
Gardening
DIY and building projects
Farmstay help
Creating/ Cooking family meals
Help around the house
General Maintenance
UN sustainability goals this host is trying to achieve
Cultural exchange and learning opportunities
The most direct form of cultural exchange happens in the home. Home brings community and the rest is on the willing recipient.
In the home, you get the food that reflects our culture. You also will experience our way of life, values and customs as part of our community as we go through our daily lives.
In the home also, we get to share stories and for those musically inclined, expand our repertoire and understanding of other cultural or ethnic music.
In addition, the lucky ones, will also get to participate in impromptu or seasonal events or gatherings or excursions. We would recommend that you accept these invitations and go with the flow.
Help
Enhancing Food Sustenance
We need to re-look into our ways of growing fruits, vegetables and poultry care. Major additions or reorganisation on cards but it all needs to be looked at ‘holistically’ so that it gels all areas together.
We have extreme seasons being either blazing hot or showers and thunderstorms with strong winds. Sometimes it even gets chilly in the evenings.
We would advise you to bring an old office shirt that could be worn over a T-shirt as a protective cover against the burning sun, possible thorn scratches and insect bites etc. Brimmed straw hats are useful in the sun as well as rain.
Sweat pants are really good as it is totally non-restrictive, tucked into socks help keep mosquito and ants out as we toil the land.
Languages spoken
English: Fluent
Malay: Fluent
Accommodation
Common sleeping area
Mosquito nets
Common kitchen
Common shower
Toilets
Washing machine
Fridge
Hot/cold water dispenser
Available on site:
Reading Areas
Musical instruments (guitar & percussive)
Board games and card
Space for yoga
What else ...
We are close to the border of Thailand, so it could be your first stop arriving in Malaysia, or your last stop before going to Thailand.
Nearest train station would be Anak Bukit, nearest bus station would be Tanah Merah Jitra (but easier to get to Shahab Perdana Alor Setar) and airport, Sultan Abdul Halim (domestic only).
Nearby places (within 5km)
Shops/pharmacy
Clinics
Banks
Restaurants
Airport 7.5km
Train station 10km
Internet cafe (local town 3km)
We have 4G internet connection but we do not have WiFi.
A little more information
Internet access
Limited internet access
We have pets
We are smokers
Can host families
How many Workawayers can stay?
Two
My animals / pets
Host ref number: 635825176342
Chat with Workawayers who've visited this host
+23
Feedback (32)
3 Dec 2024
Left by Workawayer (emnsam) for host
We had a mixed experience here and will try to be clear and straightforward about the pros and cons. We arrived last minute and Ivan was very kind to take us in, he has great ambitions and goals and we hope the best for the future of his project and plans, he is very knowledgable and made a great effort to show us around the area and teach us… read more
31 Jul 2024
Left by Workawayer (Annapurna) for host
I had an incredible experience at the hill house! My time there was filled with different tasks and wonderful interactions. I helped create a vegetable patch and painted a fishpond, and what not! The highlight of my stay was undoubtedly the people I met. The other volunteers were amazing, and we shared many great conversations that enriched my… read more
31 Jul 2024
Left by host for Workawayer (Annapurna)
Annu was an eager participant in any activity we had to do, from the tedious house cleaning to various help around the place depending on what was going on at the time without any fuss.
She was happy to engage and it shows that she was enjoying her stay.
Being a bit of a last minute arrangement, she was unable to extend her stay due to other… read more
She was happy to engage and it shows that she was enjoying her stay.
Being a bit of a last minute arrangement, she was unable to extend her stay due to other… read more
(Excellent
)
29 Jun 2024
Left by host for Workawayer (Charlotte & Pablo)
Easy going siblings. Very helpful with on-going projects and happy to work independently.
Charlotte gravitated towards getting the nursery better organised. From seedlings to transplant and fertilization, preparation of the beds and nets.
Mathias got immersed with general maintenance and preparation for animal rearing, like making fences for… read more
Charlotte gravitated towards getting the nursery better organised. From seedlings to transplant and fertilization, preparation of the beds and nets.
Mathias got immersed with general maintenance and preparation for animal rearing, like making fences for… read more
(Very good
)
Photos
Chat with Workawayers who've visited this host
+23
Feedback
These are extra optional ratings when members leave feedback. The average rating left for each option is displayed.
Accuracy of profile:
(4.8)
Cultural exchange:
(5.0)
Communication:
(4.6)
3 Dec 2024
Left by Workawayer (emnsam) for host
We had a mixed experience here and will try to be clear and straightforward about the pros and cons. We arrived last minute and Ivan was very kind to take us in, he has great ambitions and goals and we hope the best for the future of his project and plans, he is very knowledgable and made a great effort to show us around the area and teach us… read more
31 Jul 2024
Left by Workawayer (Annapurna) for host
I had an incredible experience at the hill house! My time there was filled with different tasks and wonderful interactions. I helped create a vegetable patch and painted a fishpond, and what not! The highlight of my stay was undoubtedly the people I met. The other volunteers were amazing, and we shared many great conversations that enriched my… read more
31 Jul 2024
Left by host for Workawayer (Annapurna)
Annu was an eager participant in any activity we had to do, from the tedious house cleaning to various help around the place depending on what was going on at the time without any fuss.
She was happy to engage and it shows that she was enjoying her stay.
Being a bit of a last minute arrangement, she was unable to extend her stay due to other… read more
She was happy to engage and it shows that she was enjoying her stay.
Being a bit of a last minute arrangement, she was unable to extend her stay due to other… read more
(Excellent)
29 Jun 2024
Left by host for Workawayer (Charlotte & Pablo)
Easy going siblings. Very helpful with on-going projects and happy to work independently.
Charlotte gravitated towards getting the nursery better organised. From seedlings to transplant and fertilization, preparation of the beds and nets.
Mathias got immersed with general maintenance and preparation for animal rearing, like making fences for… read more
Charlotte gravitated towards getting the nursery better organised. From seedlings to transplant and fertilization, preparation of the beds and nets.
Mathias got immersed with general maintenance and preparation for animal rearing, like making fences for… read more
(Very good)
17 Dec 2023
Left by host for Workawayer (Sarah)
It was Sarah's first Workaway experience and it was a stretch from the normalcy of her life, but she adapted well and not get too overwhelmed.
Unfortunately, Sarah arrived at a challenging time maintenance-wise and additional chores that added to the organisational chaos. It didn't help that she was not real feeling well for some parts of her… read more
Unfortunately, Sarah arrived at a challenging time maintenance-wise and additional chores that added to the organisational chaos. It didn't help that she was not real feeling well for some parts of her… read more
(Very good)
28 Nov 2023
Left by Workawayer (Eszter) for host
I stayed 2 weeks at Ivan's cozy, hippie-vibe hut in the jungle. I left earlier than planned mainly because of the lack of tools and a clear plan. We were cleaning the paint off of wooden boards, sanding and painting them.
We lived with 3 local guys who were supposed to cook, but after day 1 i had to take over. (Snacks, fruits - we had to buy for… read more
We lived with 3 local guys who were supposed to cook, but after day 1 i had to take over. (Snacks, fruits - we had to buy for… read more
18 Nov 2023
Left by host for Workawayer (Eszter)
Eszter is a cheerful character. Very interested to engage in conversation and is respectful.
She is independent and sets her goals to achieve and will take up the slack in the overall activities. She would often cook vegan dishes to share.
She helped dismantle a wooden hut and restoration work like removing nails, scraping off the old paint,… read more
She is independent and sets her goals to achieve and will take up the slack in the overall activities. She would often cook vegan dishes to share.
She helped dismantle a wooden hut and restoration work like removing nails, scraping off the old paint,… read more
(Very good)
18 Nov 2023
Left by host for Workawayer (Thomas & Paul)
It was a pleasure to host Thomas and Paul. They were eager to get down to work almost immediately. They appreciate a well organised outfit where they can get on with whatever tasks assigned to them working as a team of independently.
That helped me dismantle a small wooden chalet/hut, to be reused elsewhere, planted some trees, cleared and… read more
That helped me dismantle a small wooden chalet/hut, to be reused elsewhere, planted some trees, cleared and… read more
(Very good)
15 Oct 2023
Left by Workawayer (Jesse) for host
Working at the farm was a wonderful experience. During my time volunteering we helped build a goat pen, picked veggies such as bamboo shoots and chilis, assisted in making a cement patio/rock wall, and built new flower beds. There is a lot to learn from Ivan. Whether it be how to live sustainably on a farm, or the great mysteries of life, he has a… read more
11 Oct 2023
Left by host for Workawayer (Jesse)
Jesse arrived and settled himself with the other volunteers with earth separation to top up the nursery beds and reworking used woods for goat pen construction. Always willing to learn new things and give assistance wherever is needed.
He willingly engages in conversation and is very easy going with everyone. He seemed to have enjoyed the food… read more
He willingly engages in conversation and is very easy going with everyone. He seemed to have enjoyed the food… read more
(Excellent)
13 Oct 2023
Left by Workawayer (Christopher) for host
I had a great 2 week stay in Kedah; Ivan and his team are a fun and interesting group, they gave us a lot of laughs. The work could be tough in the heat, but delicious home cooked malaysian meals more than made up for it.
I'd definitely come back here if I travel this way in the future
I'd definitely come back here if I travel this way in the future
11 Oct 2023
Left by host for Workawayer (Christopher)
Chris arrived already knowing some Malay words. Impressive!
He is very attentive in conversation and is prepared to attempt any given tasks and work independently. He plays the guitar and so filled the air with songs. He has quite a wide repertoire.
He built 3 earth separators for the nursery to remove rocks from the dirt. Used the same to… read more
He is very attentive in conversation and is prepared to attempt any given tasks and work independently. He plays the guitar and so filled the air with songs. He has quite a wide repertoire.
He built 3 earth separators for the nursery to remove rocks from the dirt. Used the same to… read more
(Very good)
12 Oct 2023
Left by Workawayer (Jeanne) for host
Had a great time over there. The food that Yeh cooked was absolutely delicious !
Aside from work, Ivan took us to fruit store to try durian, Roti restaurant, hiking to an incredible place, etc.. I really enjoyed my stay there, thank you very much :)
Aside from work, Ivan took us to fruit store to try durian, Roti restaurant, hiking to an incredible place, etc.. I really enjoyed my stay there, thank you very much :)
11 Oct 2023
Left by host for Workawayer (Jeanne)
Jeanne is warm, friendly and arrived at a time when I was needing help in my nursery preparation and tidying up the place.
She learnt to use basic tools to make wooden frames and progressed to using basic electric tools.
Although a vegetarian, Jeanne seemed to delight in the food prepared.
A great person to work on a team with.
She learnt to use basic tools to make wooden frames and progressed to using basic electric tools.
Although a vegetarian, Jeanne seemed to delight in the food prepared.
A great person to work on a team with.
(Very good)
8 Sep 2023
Left by Workawayer (Amalie) for host
I stayed at Ivan's place for one month and it was a wonderful experience. The whole team is really welcoming and eager to share their culture with you. If you make a little bit of effort you can easily communicate even with the locals who don't speak English that well. And if you don't, Ivan speaks great English and loves to have long discussions,… read more
8 Sep 2023
Left by host for Workawayer (Amalie)
Amalie (Amy) is an early riser, a very considerate member and easily engages in conversation.
She is naturally curious and is willing to get involved with whatever tasks that needs doing. She cooks, cleans and is a magnate to cats and dogs.
She helped us pick, peel and make and bottle Mangosteen jam and several cakes. Went fruit picking,… read more
She is naturally curious and is willing to get involved with whatever tasks that needs doing. She cooks, cleans and is a magnate to cats and dogs.
She helped us pick, peel and make and bottle Mangosteen jam and several cakes. Went fruit picking,… read more
(Excellent)
8 Sep 2023
Left by host for Workawayer (Oumayma)
Oumayma is a good natured and a gentle soul. Very soft spoken and accommodating.
She arrived during our transition period where most of the busy spell was done. It was time to take stock and reorganise.
She helped patiently all the sporadic work in tidying up all the loose ends of unfinished tasks, tidying up around the place and gardening… read more
She arrived during our transition period where most of the busy spell was done. It was time to take stock and reorganise.
She helped patiently all the sporadic work in tidying up all the loose ends of unfinished tasks, tidying up around the place and gardening… read more
(Excellent)
2 Sep 2023
Left by Workawayer (Oumayma) for host
I volunteered with Ivan at the beginning of my travel journey, and it turned out to be a valuable chapter. The timing wasn't ideal since there were no ongoing projects and I had to cut my stay short. My primary goal was to learn more about natural construction. Ivan was very understanding and he even recommended me a friend of his with whom I… read more
8 Sep 2023
Left by host for Workawayer (Albert)
Albert arrived during the fruit picking season. He alternated between picking fruits (climbing tall trees) and as a helping hand in the preparation of our land for planting and seed germination.
After a while, he became more familiar and independent.
An easy going person and a non fussy eater. Willing to try any food. A pleasure to have.
After a while, he became more familiar and independent.
An easy going person and a non fussy eater. Willing to try any food. A pleasure to have.
(Excellent)
8 Sep 2023
Left by Workawayer (Albert) for host
i had a wonderfull time volunteering at Ivans place.
i was lucky to visit during the fruit season through which I experienced the harvesting and selling proccess of mangosteen, rambutan and langsat. What i really enjoyed was the variety of Jobs: gardening, working at the fruit plantation, housekeeping and construction work.
Ivan is a very open… read more
i was lucky to visit during the fruit season through which I experienced the harvesting and selling proccess of mangosteen, rambutan and langsat. What i really enjoyed was the variety of Jobs: gardening, working at the fruit plantation, housekeeping and construction work.
Ivan is a very open… read more
5 Aug 2023
Left by host for Workawayer (Sabrina)
Last minute application when I also needed last minute help.
A bubbly person, likes to get on with gardening activities. A helpful hand around the place and easily mingled with other team members.
It was a short stay but it was good.
A bubbly person, likes to get on with gardening activities. A helpful hand around the place and easily mingled with other team members.
It was a short stay but it was good.
(Very good)
31 Jul 2023
Left by Workawayer (Sabrina) for host
Very nice place with so friendly people. It was my first workaway and I really liked it. I get to see unique places in a small town and learned a lot about permaculture, religion and spirituality, malay food and more.
Warm and open place.
Thank you :)
Warm and open place.
Thank you :)
6 Apr 2023
Left by host for Workawayer (Cameron)
Cameron arrived during a transitional period and the onset of the fasting month of Ramadan. We also had water supply disruption due to pipe upgrading works.
He is a ready participant for any activity. He helped in the extraction of bamboo, cut it to length, removed branches, split and shaved of the sharp edges to weave into fence around the… read more
He is a ready participant for any activity. He helped in the extraction of bamboo, cut it to length, removed branches, split and shaved of the sharp edges to weave into fence around the… read more
(Very good)
6 Apr 2023
Left by Workawayer (Cameron) for host
I spent almost 3 weeks at this WorkAway. Ivan and Ari were amazing hosts and I got to see Malay life from a interesting perspective, especially because I spent a few days of Ramadan with them. Zack, a member of the staff showed me the more traditional side of Malay culture and was full of interesting stories about his village.
Ivan and Ari were… read more
Ivan and Ari were… read more
6 Mar 2023
Left by host for Workawayer (Hannah)
Laura and Hannah either worked as a pair or in tandem. They are very polite and rather reserved.
They do spend much time on their own deep in conversation and exploring nearby areas.
They arrived towards the tail end of our activities and got involved with work in the nursery area and switched between the nursery and the garden, to making a gate… read more
They do spend much time on their own deep in conversation and exploring nearby areas.
They arrived towards the tail end of our activities and got involved with work in the nursery area and switched between the nursery and the garden, to making a gate… read more
(Very good)
6 Mar 2023
Left by host for Workawayer (HİKMET)
He arrived hitch hiking to my great surprise. Mert is a very accommodating person but with limited English understanding. His mission is to learn to speak better English and to learn to play the ukulele.
He is strong, capable of welding works and is not afraid to express ideas or work independently.
He is energetic with a sense of humour.… read more
He is strong, capable of welding works and is not afraid to express ideas or work independently.
He is energetic with a sense of humour.… read more
(Excellent)
31 Jan 2023
Left by Workawayer (Malena) for host
First of all: Ivan, Ari and everybody there is extremely kind and welcoming and they will do everything to make sure you're comfortable. It really is a community with lots of teamwork, but it's possible to realize your own projects as well - I really apprechiated that they were totally open to suggestions/ideas and gave a lot of freedom to become… read more
3 Jan 2023
Left by host for Workawayer (Malena)
Malena arrived at a time when there were several volunteers who were already familiar with the on going woodworking activities and straight away got into it. The project was to refit the kitchen. She helped make wooden shelves for the microwave, rice cooker and blender.
She then got started with the general garden care and was meticulous.
When… read more
She then got started with the general garden care and was meticulous.
When… read more
(Very good)
18 Jan 2023
Left by Workawayer (Workaway member) for host
We stayed with Ivan and Ari for a month. We stayed in a beautiful house on the top of a hill with others workawayers and many cats.
We did many different tasks during our stay, woodwork, cooking, planting and much more. We did get to choose what we wanted to work with and we took away many valuable experiences.
Beside the work, we had many… read more
We did many different tasks during our stay, woodwork, cooking, planting and much more. We did get to choose what we wanted to work with and we took away many valuable experiences.
Beside the work, we had many… read more
1 Jan 2023
Left by host for Workawayer (Workaway member)
Marcus and Eva are a couple that is willing to work independently if the need arise.
At once wanting to start contributing to the tasks at hand. Eva gravitated towards kitchen duties and blended her time to fulfill her desire to learn other aspects of our project seamlessly. She helped with the gardening, composting, planting, and did woodworking… read more
At once wanting to start contributing to the tasks at hand. Eva gravitated towards kitchen duties and blended her time to fulfill her desire to learn other aspects of our project seamlessly. She helped with the gardening, composting, planting, and did woodworking… read more
(Excellent)
16 Jan 2023
Left by Workawayer (Ines) for host
What can we say? Too short...
More seriously, our stay at Yvan's was just amazing, we had the chance to live fabulous moments of life, to make outstanding encounters. All these memories cannot be forgotten. From the very first day, Yvan and Ari welcomed us in such a way that we could immediately feel at home, being from then on full members of… read more
More seriously, our stay at Yvan's was just amazing, we had the chance to live fabulous moments of life, to make outstanding encounters. All these memories cannot be forgotten. From the very first day, Yvan and Ari welcomed us in such a way that we could immediately feel at home, being from then on full members of… read more
1 Jan 2023
Left by host for Workawayer (Ines)
A very soft spoken couple.
They arrived and quickly got involved with the basic gardening activities like earth separation, seed germination, then assisted in some cementing works and giving a hand to other on going tasks.
They did some landscape and indoor plant shelves out of wood and found potted plants from around the place to redecorate… read more
They arrived and quickly got involved with the basic gardening activities like earth separation, seed germination, then assisted in some cementing works and giving a hand to other on going tasks.
They did some landscape and indoor plant shelves out of wood and found potted plants from around the place to redecorate… read more
(Very good)
2 Jan 2023
Left by Workawayer (Kane) for host
This was my first work away experience and I was a very lucky human and couldn't have chosen a better one, the love and respect shown from everyone in the community is immense, the knowledge of the locals and the willingness and motivation of workawayers was a very good blend to successfully achieve the plans and projects we discussed in the… read more
21 Dec 2022
Left by host for Workawayer (Kane)
Had good vibes from Kane from the beginning. Very respectful and with a sense of humour, knowledgeable about a wide range of subjects and music too. He plays the guitar but only knows to play his own songs. We enjoyed listening to them and had some great jam sessions. Also a keen chess player where he would be up to playing at least a game or two… read more
(Excellent)
31 Dec 2022
Left by Workawayer (Mara) for host
I got lost so many times trying to count the days!!!
What?? Is it already friday?? But I trought it is Tuesday.....
Always somebody around to have a good talk, playing chess, guitar or cards. We spent half of the day in the living room, learning about each other religion, culture, education, way of thinking,.... and the other half outside, in the… read more
What?? Is it already friday?? But I trought it is Tuesday.....
Always somebody around to have a good talk, playing chess, guitar or cards. We spent half of the day in the living room, learning about each other religion, culture, education, way of thinking,.... and the other half outside, in the… read more
26 Dec 2022
Left by host for Workawayer (Mara)
Mara is an early riser and loves conversation. She started playing more guitar since she arrived.
She cooks and got involved in the vegetable patch extension and planting preparation.
She prepared and built, with help, a wooden bed nestled on a rock wall.
She then proceeded to make shelves for personal item storage, built a sunbed from offcuts.… read more
She cooks and got involved in the vegetable patch extension and planting preparation.
She prepared and built, with help, a wooden bed nestled on a rock wall.
She then proceeded to make shelves for personal item storage, built a sunbed from offcuts.… read more
(Excellent)
21 Dec 2022
Left by Workawayer (Benoit) for host
I certainly learnt a lot during my time.
Ivan and his son Ari are two remarkable people. They both have unique gifts which give real potential for the community they hope to build on the hill by the jungle.
I am most grateful for their patience with me. I really did little work and mostly just played guitar all day, for which they seemed okay… read more
Ivan and his son Ari are two remarkable people. They both have unique gifts which give real potential for the community they hope to build on the hill by the jungle.
I am most grateful for their patience with me. I really did little work and mostly just played guitar all day, for which they seemed okay… read more
9 Dec 2022
Left by host for Workawayer (Benoit)
A sensitive and very soft spoken person. Quietly helpful. He started slowly as he was recovering from a fever.
Willing to help out anywhere that required assistance gardening, erecting a shed with some concreting works and handling kitchen duties and cat care.
He has a large repertoire of songs he can play and sing on the guitar, we enjoyed many… read more
Willing to help out anywhere that required assistance gardening, erecting a shed with some concreting works and handling kitchen duties and cat care.
He has a large repertoire of songs he can play and sing on the guitar, we enjoyed many… read more
(Very good)
11 Dec 2022
Left by host for Workawayer (Montserrat & Raul)
Lovely family!
They arrived at the perfect time. Our designated cook was away and Montse took over the kitchen for a while.
Raul focused on the garden, planting and establishing a composting site.
Always ready to help, willing to make adjustments and highly cooperative in whatever situation we found ourselves in.
Jara settled in very quick,… read more
They arrived at the perfect time. Our designated cook was away and Montse took over the kitchen for a while.
Raul focused on the garden, planting and establishing a composting site.
Always ready to help, willing to make adjustments and highly cooperative in whatever situation we found ourselves in.
Jara settled in very quick,… read more
(Excellent)
11 Dec 2022
Left by Workawayer (Montserrat & Raul) for host
This was our first experience … Ivan, Ari , Zak …really nice team easy to deal with.
It’s a new project and there are many open fronts, so if you are proactive you’ll find something to do or help.
There is always (or almost) a guitar playing , good conversations and smiles around.
Our daughter Jara turned six there, was really especial for us see… read more
It’s a new project and there are many open fronts, so if you are proactive you’ll find something to do or help.
There is always (or almost) a guitar playing , good conversations and smiles around.
Our daughter Jara turned six there, was really especial for us see… read more
7 Dec 2022
Left by Workawayer (Nika) for host
Simply amazing!
A week flew by too fast at Ivans and Ari's place.
Ivan has a great vision. They are building an awesome place for internationals to experience what the nature has to offer in the country side of Malaysia.
We had a good conversations about religion, learned about Malay food, politics, and nature.
In the evenings we all played… read more
A week flew by too fast at Ivans and Ari's place.
Ivan has a great vision. They are building an awesome place for internationals to experience what the nature has to offer in the country side of Malaysia.
We had a good conversations about religion, learned about Malay food, politics, and nature.
In the evenings we all played… read more
24 Nov 2022
Left by host for Workawayer (Nika)
Always wearing a big smile and raring to get something done.
She arrived when we were preparing lemongrass/citronella for processing and replanting and straight away got into it.
A willing help with whatever that needed a hand and took over meal preparation several times.
A quick learner and has no problems working independently.
Super… read more
She arrived when we were preparing lemongrass/citronella for processing and replanting and straight away got into it.
A willing help with whatever that needed a hand and took over meal preparation several times.
A quick learner and has no problems working independently.
Super… read more
(Very good)
28 Nov 2022
Left by host for Workawayer (Bente)
Bente assisted with various on going work on clearing the land and processing lemongrass and citronella plant.
A quiet and respectful person but very open to conversation, a willing participant and very helpful around the house.
She got along well with everyone.
Come back again (with your sax)
A quiet and respectful person but very open to conversation, a willing participant and very helpful around the house.
She got along well with everyone.
Come back again (with your sax)
(Excellent)
13 Nov 2022
Left by Workawayer (Mathilde) for host
We would like to thanks Ivan, his son Ari and their team for their warm welcoming. We felt at home since the first day.
At the top of this hill our stay was very nice. We spend almost 2 weeks at Yvan's place. He introduce us to the Malaysian local life. Through a very nice cultural exchange : yoga and music sessions, we worked all together to… read more
At the top of this hill our stay was very nice. We spend almost 2 weeks at Yvan's place. He introduce us to the Malaysian local life. Through a very nice cultural exchange : yoga and music sessions, we worked all together to… read more
11 Nov 2022
Left by host for Workawayer (Mathilde)
Mathilde and travel buddy, Adeline carried on from the efforts of the previous Workawayer's with the landscape and gardening. Separating the earth, stones and preparing earth beds, garden paths and steps.
Then they dug a drainage outlet, did some cement work and repair rain washed roads.
Very quiet, very polite and very helpful. Fun to be… read more
Then they dug a drainage outlet, did some cement work and repair rain washed roads.
Very quiet, very polite and very helpful. Fun to be… read more
(Very good)
2 Nov 2022
Left by Workawayer (Charlotte) for host
2 weeks with Ivan, his family and his team passed so incredibly quickly..
I really enjoyed the time with them! I was able to try and learn a lot about gardening and their culture.
I am very grateful for all these experiences, the nice conversations, the good music (!!) and the delicious food.
Thank you for this nice time!
I really enjoyed the time with them! I was able to try and learn a lot about gardening and their culture.
I am very grateful for all these experiences, the nice conversations, the good music (!!) and the delicious food.
Thank you for this nice time!
1 Nov 2022
Left by host for Workawayer (Charlotte)
Charlotte was eager to get started from day one. She assisted in creating the garden patch, clear weeds, collect small rocks to prepare planting beds and the garden pathway, filling it up with earth. She also tried a day in the jungle sawing planks for a change of scene.
She is full of smile, easy going and ready to help out with chores, working… read more
She is full of smile, easy going and ready to help out with chores, working… read more
(Excellent)
1 Nov 2022
Left by Workawayer (Filippo & Chiara) for host
Ivan is a great host. Since the beginning of our stay he made ourselves feel at home, let us experience as much as possible and he introduced us to the local community.
Working hours are flexible, is more about human connection and creating the right ambience. He's project is interesting and he's open to accept suggestions also from the… read more
Working hours are flexible, is more about human connection and creating the right ambience. He's project is interesting and he's open to accept suggestions also from the… read more
1 Nov 2022
Left by host for Workawayer (Filippo & Chiara)
Filippo, Chiara and Bruno (their 3 year old son) settled in quickly. Bruno is robust little boy that would want to help out in whatever activities we were doing.
Filippo and Chiara alternately minded Bruno while the other would help around the place. Chiara mainly helped in the garden, with Bruno clearing rubbish, digging earth, mimicking his… read more
Filippo and Chiara alternately minded Bruno while the other would help around the place. Chiara mainly helped in the garden, with Bruno clearing rubbish, digging earth, mimicking his… read more
(Excellent)
7 Oct 2022
Left by Workawayer (Tristan & Maëva) for host
Where to start ? first, if you are looking for a real discovery of Malaysia you have no choice but to stop at the hill. You will be welcomed by a wonderful team, with open arms and a warmth so comforting that you will melt. It is the perfect place for cultural immersion. We stayed almost two months with Ivan and Ari and that's almost not enough.… read more
4 Oct 2022
Left by host for Workawayer (Tristan & Maëva)
Super friendly couple.
Tristan: willing to try anything. Especially loves woodworking. He insisted to learn using the chainsaw and was happy using the tools around the workshop. Quickly settled in and got on with whatever that needed attention.
A very cheerful person, respectful, can cook up a great meal in a simple kitchen.
Does not need… read more
Tristan: willing to try anything. Especially loves woodworking. He insisted to learn using the chainsaw and was happy using the tools around the workshop. Quickly settled in and got on with whatever that needed attention.
A very cheerful person, respectful, can cook up a great meal in a simple kitchen.
Does not need… read more
(Excellent)
6 Oct 2022
Left by Workawayer (Evann) for host
Ari, his father, and all the other workers are very very welcoming! Extremely caring and attentive to others !!!
They have a warm atmosphere in their house, they listen and offer very interesting conversations.
I had the opportunity to sleep one night in the jungle, it was fantastic, a really unique experience!
Zach also took me to discover the… read more
They have a warm atmosphere in their house, they listen and offer very interesting conversations.
I had the opportunity to sleep one night in the jungle, it was fantastic, a really unique experience!
Zach also took me to discover the… read more
4 Oct 2022
Left by host for Workawayer (Evann)
Evann arrived as a young, inexperienced and naturally quiet person. Respectful. Almost very shy. She was willing to learn and do what she can physically handle with a bit of guide.
She opted to join camping a night in the jungle to get experience and foregoing all the creature comforts and challenging herself tremendously.
She is a hard worker… read more
She opted to join camping a night in the jungle to get experience and foregoing all the creature comforts and challenging herself tremendously.
She is a hard worker… read more
(Excellent)
4 Oct 2022
Left by Workawayer (Lieve) for host
I had a very good time with Ivan! What I really liked is that there was a strong community feeling. In addition, we got the opportunity to connect with locals. This was very valuable for me, as it allowed me to learn more about the culture.
29 Sep 2022
Left by host for Workawayer (Lieve)
Lieve is a bubbly and a pretty robust girl. She is fun to be around and sister-like to other Workawayers.
Prefers things explained in direct manner so as to allow for her to work independently. She is very at home doing gardening work.
She took up the role of engaging my shy team members very well and helped generate a welcoming… read more
Prefers things explained in direct manner so as to allow for her to work independently. She is very at home doing gardening work.
She took up the role of engaging my shy team members very well and helped generate a welcoming… read more
(Excellent)
2 Oct 2022
Left by Workawayer (Kris) for host
Ari and Ivan are great hosts so friendly and welcoming. There were other workawayers and it felt like a small community. The other team members are a lot of fun, we all fell in love with Diane.
We were able to help Zac one of the team members. We went to his house and cleared out the pond and weed the garden. It was fun work and nice to be able… read more
We were able to help Zac one of the team members. We went to his house and cleared out the pond and weed the garden. It was fun work and nice to be able… read more
29 Sep 2022
Left by host for Workawayer (Kris)
She is a kind hearted person and it showed in how she attracted fellow WORKAWAYers to follow her here. Almost a motherly figure and is concerned for others.
Any task is good. Just be clear and direct. She prefers it.
A good team member for any informal groups, ready to offer suggestions and participate.
She helped a team member clear out the… read more
Any task is good. Just be clear and direct. She prefers it.
A good team member for any informal groups, ready to offer suggestions and participate.
She helped a team member clear out the… read more
(Excellent)
24 Sep 2022
Left by Workawayer (Elia & Andrea) for host
The place was amazing. Unfortunately we could spend there only few days and, therefore, we did not have the chance to really contribute to help. Nevertheless, they tought us a lot. Ivan was super friendly and attentive. Ari (the son) was a very good friend. They also intruced us to their community and we had the chance to meet great human beings.… read more
24 Sep 2022
Left by host for Workawayer (Elia & Andrea)
Andrea and Elia, all smiles buddies. Genuinely enthusiastic to help with anything going on.
It was a very short stay with us, not enough to really get into anything, but they helped us accelerate progress with odd jobs around the place. Especially digging terraces for our next planting project.
They can cook and made a lovely pasta dish for us.… read more
It was a very short stay with us, not enough to really get into anything, but they helped us accelerate progress with odd jobs around the place. Especially digging terraces for our next planting project.
They can cook and made a lovely pasta dish for us.… read more
(Very good)
14 Sep 2022
Left by Workawayer (Sahand) for host
I think this is overall a very enriching experience, I'd say it exceeded my expectations as a first time workawayer I had no issues at all. I reccomend this place for anyone who wants to experience the true malaysia and want impactful cultural experience and to obtain and refine many of the skills through the activities they offer. There is an… read more
14 Sep 2022
Left by host for Workawayer (Sahand)
Very gentle person. A first-time Workawayer staying with a nubie host!
His personal goal was to get out of his comfort zone (I subsequently learnt).
He declared himself a changed man by the third day after spending a night in the jungle in a tent where he helped cut logs, clear up space, plant fruit trees.
All the work (and creatures) were… read more
His personal goal was to get out of his comfort zone (I subsequently learnt).
He declared himself a changed man by the third day after spending a night in the jungle in a tent where he helped cut logs, clear up space, plant fruit trees.
All the work (and creatures) were… read more
(Very good)
12 Sep 2022
Left by Workawayer (Jan) for host
I stayed two and a half week at Ivan's place and I loved it!!!
My main task was to work with woods and I learned so many new things about it.
Ivan is an amazing host, he took me to a waterfall, to the sea and even gave me an unique time, camping in the jungel.
My main task was to work with woods and I learned so many new things about it.
Ivan is an amazing host, he took me to a waterfall, to the sea and even gave me an unique time, camping in the jungel.
11 Sep 2022
Left by host for Workawayer (Jan)
Jan (pronounced Yaan) is energetic. Always volunteering to do things. We were a bit disorganized when he arrived, but he was very accommodating and he quickly settled in.
He is not afraid of heavy work and fun to be around with.
Jan quickly familiarised himself with our tools and equipment and helped make a wooden bed using no nails or screws,… read more
He is not afraid of heavy work and fun to be around with.
Jan quickly familiarised himself with our tools and equipment and helped make a wooden bed using no nails or screws,… read more
(Excellent)
29 Aug 2022
Left by Workawayer (Hazel & Miles) for host
We stayed only a week at Ivan's as we were on our way to Thailand. They have many ongoing projects to get involved with, there is a large workshop with lots of tools you can use or learn to use. They are using the wood from their land to build with so we were involved with slicing this at the top of the hill, bringing it down, sanding and… read more
29 Aug 2022
Left by host for Workawayer (Hazel & Miles)
So much was done in so little time.
Miles: very tall (very handy for reach), soft spoken and very unassuming. Great help around the place.
He helped us organise some of the preparation work to build our wooden lodging : sawing wood from our land, bringing it to the workshop, tidying up joinery and fitment of an unfinished wooden bed project and… read more
Miles: very tall (very handy for reach), soft spoken and very unassuming. Great help around the place.
He helped us organise some of the preparation work to build our wooden lodging : sawing wood from our land, bringing it to the workshop, tidying up joinery and fitment of an unfinished wooden bed project and… read more
(Excellent)
18 Aug 2022
Left by host for Workawayer (Noahzeiler)
He has huge passion for the world. Enthusiastic, genuinely interested to leave the place better than when he arrived.
As a nubie host, he has not only helped me in my various undertakings around the place, cooked us excellent makeshift meals, but also to prepare us in our journey to hosting more volunteers to come.
A really positive person to… read more
As a nubie host, he has not only helped me in my various undertakings around the place, cooked us excellent makeshift meals, but also to prepare us in our journey to hosting more volunteers to come.
A really positive person to… read more
(Excellent)
18 Aug 2022
Left by Workawayer (Noahzeiler) for host
I was contacted by Ivan ( The property owner and proprietor) while on another Workaway project here in the beautiful and exotic country of Malaysia and I invited to visit the property...... so that invite ended up being an incredible one week stay.
This Workaway project was a complete pleasure in many different ways. First and foremost Ivan, his… read more
This Workaway project was a complete pleasure in many different ways. First and foremost Ivan, his… read more
17 Aug 2022
Left by host for Workawayer (Mariano)
Sunshine! Very warm and friendly. Always with a smile on his face and ever willing to try things.
Extremely respectful of others. Always welcomed back. Had a great time with him. I think everyone did.
Extremely respectful of others. Always welcomed back. Had a great time with him. I think everyone did.
(Excellent)
31 Jul 2022
Left by Workawayer (Yogesh) for host
I had a great time at Ivan's place. I came here for 4 days but end up staying 2 weeks. Everyone in the house is very chill and easy going. Ivan is always open to new ideas, we had long discussions about the project and how we can use earth as much as possible to build these huts. He always brought different malay delicacies for me to try. I… read more
29 Jul 2022
Left by host for Workawayer (Yogesh)
Friendly, good listener, ready to participate and give input. Easy going and willing to try new things, even food stuff. Not fussy at all.
Got several things accomplished in his short stay with us. I thoroughly enjoyed the time with him and the long conversations into the night.
Got several things accomplished in his short stay with us. I thoroughly enjoyed the time with him and the long conversations into the night.
(Excellent)
