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 – a community leader whose courage, dedication and love for nature show that leadership and stewardship 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. It is a demanding role in Dayak society that calls for insight, courage and the trust of the community.
By stepping into this position, she defies the traditional gender norms of leadership, showing that women are equally capable of guiding their communities with strength and clarity.
“Leadership is not about being a man or a woman, but about responsibility to the community,” she said.
An Explorer Since Childhood
Telin’s journey begins in childhood, where she grew up 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, a mountain near her village. That experience left a lasting mark on her, igniting a lifelong passion for exploring forests, caves, waterfalls and sacred sites while documenting the natural and cultural heritage of her people.
Over the years, she has climbed Gunung Lesong about 20 times. Each journey 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 said.
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 to honour nature, preserve stories, and pass down a love for the forest to the next generation.
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 is more than a landscape. It is heritage, sanctuary and teacher.
Gunung Lesong is not only breathtaking in its beauty but 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.”
An International Women’s Day Inspiration
While what distinguishes Telin from others is her unwavering spirit and dedication, her 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 shapes 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 devoting her time, energy and expertise to community leadership, cultural preservation and environmental protection, she inspires us to recognise that true impact comes from giving selflessly to build a richer, more sustainable world.
Her courage, perseverance and devotion to the Earth make her a living testament that women are equally capable of leading, protecting nature and safeguarding our shared heritage.
“If we protect nature, nature will protect us.”
