Emily Mary Chin

Senior Content Executive

Travel writing Sustainable tourism Cultural and heritage storytelling Documentary filmmaking Video scriptwriting Community-based storytelling

Emily Mary Chin is the writer behind much of what you read across Amazing Borneo and its family of travel brands, from the practical to the cultural to the deeply personal stories of the people who make Borneo tourism what it is.

Her path here wasn't a straight line, and that's part of what shapes how she writes. Emily started her career in accounting and finance before discovering a deeper pull toward storytelling. She spent the next several years in media and documentary work — writing, producing, and directing, including the documentary Huminodun: A Woman's Legacy — followed by years working alongside Sabah's NGOs and civil society organisations on documentaries, campaigns, and websites for grassroots causes. More recently, she's supported community storytelling workshops across Sabah and Sarawak, covering community filmmaking, audio storytelling, and social media.

That background shapes how she approaches Borneo's stories, including her own. Emily is a sixth-generation Sabahan with mixed Chinese, Dusun, Kadazan, Japanese, and British heritage, and it was in uncovering her own family's layered history that she first found her love of storytelling. She holds a GSTC Professional Certificate in Sustainable Tourism and leads Amazing Borneo's efforts toward GSTC sustainable tourism certification.

Outside of work, she's an avid reader and an occasional cat-sitter, which she'll tell you is really just an excuse to hang out with more cats.

Articles by Emily Mary Chin

Mar 14, 2025

Ethical Wildlife Experiences in Borneo – A Responsible Traveller’s Guide

As a conscious traveller, your choices matter. By selecting ethical experiences, you contribute to the protection of Borneo’s rich biodiversity and help sustain local livelihoods. This guide explores how to engage in responsible wildlife tourism while making a lasting positive impact!

Mar 13, 2025

Is Semporna Safe for Travel? What You Need to Know

Concerns about safety in Semporna – stemming from past security incidents – have left some travellers hesitant. If you're wondering whether it's safe to visit Semporna today, rest assured: Yes, Semporna is now safer than ever for tourists, thanks to significant security improvements.

Mar 10, 2025

Defying Expectations: Diana’s Journey as Amazing Borneo’s Female Tour Guide

Meet Diana Isdain, the only female Tour Guide at Amazing Borneo Tours, a role she never envisioned for herself but has since embraced wholeheartedly. Her journey is one of courage, growth, and proving that passion transcends gender barriers.

Mar 03, 2025

Breaking Barriers at Sea: Vince’s Journey as the First Female Officer on North Borneo Cruises

In a world where the maritime industry remains largely male-dominated, Vince stands as a trailblazer. As the Second Officer of North Borneo Cruises, she has navigated her way through uncharted waters, proving that women can not only hold their own but thrive in this demanding field.

Feb 21, 2025

The Last Nomads of Borneo: The Penan People of Mulu National Park

Deep within Sarawak's limestone karst landscapes and ancient rainforests lives one of Borneo's most distinctive indigenous groups – the Penan. Traditionally nomadic hunter-gatherers, they represent an important part of Borneo's cultural diversity as one of the Orang Ulu ("upriver people") of Sarawak.

Feb 14, 2025

Tabin Wildlife Resort vs. Utan Rainforest Lodge: Which Borneo Jungle Escape is Right for You?

For nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts, Borneo is one of the world’s best destinations for jungle adventures. In Sabah, two incredible eco-lodges – Tabin Wildlife Resort and Utan Rainforest Lodge – offer unforgettable experiences, each with its own distinct appeal. While these two retreats are located near each other, they offer access to different ecosystems and unique ways to experience the rainforest. This guide will help you decide which jungle adventure is right for you.

Feb 04, 2025

Luxury Travel in Borneo: Best Resorts, Rainforest Lodges & Private Experiences in Sabah and Sarawak

Borneo is a paradise for luxury travellers seeking an escape into pristine nature without compromising on comfort. From overwater resorts on idyllic islands to high-end jungle lodges deep in the rainforest, Borneo offers unparalleled exclusivity, wildlife encounters, and world-class hospitality. Whether you’re dreaming of a beachfront retreat, an exclusive river safari, or a private yacht cruise, here are the best resorts and experiences to elevate your luxury getaway in Borneo!

Jan 24, 2025

Why is Danum Valley Field Centre So Expensive to Visit?

Danum Valley Field Centre (DVFC) is a gateway to one of the most untouched rainforests in the world, offering an incredible opportunity to immerse yourself in its extraordinary biodiversity. However, some visitors find themselves questioning the seemingly high costs of visiting this remote destination. Why does it cost so much? What makes DVFC so special? The answer lies in the delicate balance of maintaining a world-class research facility, supporting critical conservation efforts, and preserving the pristine beauty of Danum Valley. Read on as we explore the factors behind the price tag and why it’s worth every penny for nature lovers and eco-tourists.

Jan 21, 2025

Explore the Best Sabah and Sarawak Destinations in 2026: A Guide to Borneo’s Top Adventures and Attractions

Borneo’s Malaysian states, Sabah and Sarawak, are unparalleled travel destinations offering a blend of natural wonders, cultural richness, and modern amenities. Did you know that Sabah and Sarawak collectively host two UNESCO World Heritage Sites and some of the most biodiverse ecosystems on Earth? For those planning a trip in 2025, here’s a guide to the top places you must visit in these two extraordinary states.

Jan 07, 2025

Step Into Sabah’s Past: The Five Indigenous Groups of Mari Mari Cultural Village

Sabah, the “Land Below the Wind,” is a cultural melting pot of an estimated 33 indigenous groups, each with their own unique traditions, languages, and histories. Among these, the Mari Mari Cultural Village provides a glimpse into the lives of five communities: the Lundayeh, Murut, Bajau, Kadazan, and Rungus.