Documenting the Hidden Stories: A Glimpse into a Sea Gypsy Village in Borneo

Looking through old photos always brings back memories and hidden snapshots that I've never shared. Today, I'm excited to share a special journey with you – a trip to a faraway sea gypsy village in the Malaysian Borneo island of Mabul, that holds a special place in my heart.

Originally, I was there to film for a pilot for a possible TV series about plastic pollution and ocean conservation. But when we weren't diving or filming, I took some time to explore the village with my camera.

As I walked around and asked for permission to take pictures, the friendly faces of the villagers showed me a side of their lives that's rarely seen. These photos, which I've never shared before, tell a story about the challenges these communities face every day in their small corner of the world.

What makes this village unique is that some of these villagers were once nomadic, living on boats and wandering the seas. The transition to a settled life brings a fascinating dimension to their story, highlighting the resilience and adaptability of these communities.

You might know me best as an underwater photographer, but like many of us, I love capturing the world around me. This collection is a reminder of the beauty we can find in the everyday, often unnoticed moments.

I hope this series inspires you to pick up your camera and discover the stories waiting to be told in your own surroundings. Each photo has a story to share, and together, let's celebrate the art of storytelling through our lenses. 📷✨