Profile information
Host rating
100 %
Last replied
26 Oct 2024
Reply rate
86.5 %
Usually responds within 5 days
Feedback
42
Email verified
Badges (2)
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Details
Description
Hi, I'm Alvin and I'm the owner and founder of a Martial Arts Academy, it is an open space with a fantastic harbor view. At the academy we run a community school project for the stateless and underprivileged kids. Sadly, because the kids are stateless, they are not entitled to any identification documents and therefore, cannot leave the island of Labuan or attend normal state school. The kids come to my academy everyday and we teach them everything from math and English to everyday life skills. Because the kids can't leave the island, we invite workawayers from all over the world to bring the world to them and teach the kids about the different cultures and any skills the workawayers might have.
In addition, we teach martial arts for fitness. My academy is not the commercial martial arts gym, you can see Deaf and Autistic members, Problematic kids, Disabled and less fortunate kids who enjoy the training environment here. I believe that education can create a better community, so I hope we can have the friends from all over the world to show the love and teach them.
The small island of around 90,000 residents is still highly-prized for its hurricane free, deep water port at the mouth of Brunei Bay. The island also serves as an excellent stopover for travelers crossing between Brunei, Sarawak and Sabah.
We open our hearts to welcome the friends from all over the world, to enjoy and gain the beautiful experience in Labuan.
Types of help and learning opportunities
Charity Work
Art Projects
Language practice
Help with Eco Projects
Teaching
Gardening
Animal Care
General Maintenance
Help with Computers/ Internet
UN sustainability goals this host is trying to achieve
Cultural exchange and learning opportunities
The workawayers can stay at the academy, you can enjoy all the fitness and martial art classes that we can offer, and you can use the basic gym facilities for free. The workawayers get to know the local cultures and local foods.
We are quite active with organising martial arts and sports event, you can learn to be the event organiser.
Help
We provide free tuition class for stateless and underprivileged kids, workawayers can teach the tuition class, and if you like, you can also support with the admin side of our academy; handling customer service; create some posters; posting in our social media and help with the design of our website.
We love our ocean and we hope to learn some knowledge about environmental care, turtle hatchery and corals restoration.
Sometime we do organise some martial arts and sports event, so workawayers can be part of the committee member too.
Languages
Languages spoken
English: Fluent
Malay: Fluent
Chinese (Mandarin): Fluent
Chinese (Cantonese): FluentThis host offers a language exchange
This host has indicated that they are interested in sharing their own language or learning a new language.
You can contact them directly for more information.
Accommodation
We do provide a private room in the academy, the room has a basic bunk bed and fan along with a kitchen area that you are free to use. However, we can also provide you with the simple food too.
What else ...
Beautiful beaches every way in Labuan, you can see the corals and turtles on the island, you can see the dolphins when you are lucky enough. I'm also trying to set up the water sports in Labuan too and I go to beach every weekend.
A little more information
Internet access
Limited internet access
We have pets
We are smokers
Can host families
Can possibly accept pets
Only dog
How many Workawayers can stay?
More than two
Hours expected
Maximum 4-5 hours a day, 5 days a week
Host ref number: 192413515917
Feedback (24)
27 Sep 2024
Left by Workawayer (Kirsten) for host
I had an incredible experience for a week in Labuan at Alvin’s martial arts academy. Alvin is a fantastic host, very friendly, quick to communicate and happy to share his stories with you. The students at the academy are amazing, they are very respectful and eager to learn. One of my favourite parts was exploring Labuan with the other volunteers… read more
31 Aug 2024
Left by Workawayer (Salvo & Luciana) for host
It’s been a privilege for us to contribute to Alvin’s project. He truly loves the stateless kids and gave us the opportunity to teach in a very healthy environment.
We spent 2 weeks with the kids, teaching them maths, swimming, football, cooking, nutrition, Drawing, make up, dancing, storytelling, searching information, history, geography and… read more
We spent 2 weeks with the kids, teaching them maths, swimming, football, cooking, nutrition, Drawing, make up, dancing, storytelling, searching information, history, geography and… read more
4 Aug 2024
Left by Workawayer (Valentin & Aude) for host
We had an amazing 2 weeks at the gym, the kids are awesome! They are really happy to learn, and happy to teach also a lot of Martial techniques :) We could train with them, and play the rest of the time when it's not Class time.
Alvin and chee Haw, the two owners, are doing really great job there. we want to thanks you two again for what you do… read more
Alvin and chee Haw, the two owners, are doing really great job there. we want to thanks you two again for what you do… read more
Photos
Feedback
These are extra optional ratings when members leave feedback. The average rating left for each option is displayed.
Accuracy of profile:
(5.0)
Cultural exchange:
(5.0)
Communication:
(5.0)
27 Sep 2024
Left by Workawayer (Kirsten) for host
I had an incredible experience for a week in Labuan at Alvin’s martial arts academy. Alvin is a fantastic host, very friendly, quick to communicate and happy to share his stories with you. The students at the academy are amazing, they are very respectful and eager to learn. One of my favourite parts was exploring Labuan with the other volunteers… read more
31 Aug 2024
Left by Workawayer (Salvo & Luciana) for host
It’s been a privilege for us to contribute to Alvin’s project. He truly loves the stateless kids and gave us the opportunity to teach in a very healthy environment.
We spent 2 weeks with the kids, teaching them maths, swimming, football, cooking, nutrition, Drawing, make up, dancing, storytelling, searching information, history, geography and… read more
We spent 2 weeks with the kids, teaching them maths, swimming, football, cooking, nutrition, Drawing, make up, dancing, storytelling, searching information, history, geography and… read more
4 Aug 2024
Left by Workawayer (Valentin & Aude) for host
We had an amazing 2 weeks at the gym, the kids are awesome! They are really happy to learn, and happy to teach also a lot of Martial techniques :) We could train with them, and play the rest of the time when it's not Class time.
Alvin and chee Haw, the two owners, are doing really great job there. we want to thanks you two again for what you do… read more
Alvin and chee Haw, the two owners, are doing really great job there. we want to thanks you two again for what you do… read more
24 Jun 2024
Left by Workawayer (Pablo) for host
I spent 5 weeks here, and it was definitely one of the most beautiful experiences I have ever had. The project is amazing, full of good people, and the kids are great. If you want to spend some time on a beautiful island, learning and sharing Malaysian culture, and at the same time collaborate on a fulfilling project, this is your place.… read more
12 Apr 2024
Left by Workawayer (Hailey Jo & Ayden Baruch) for host
We stayed a month at this Workaway and couldn't have had a better time. it was by far the most enriching and meaningful part of our trip. all of the children are so fun, behaved, and have such deep stories. they really want to learn. the host, Alvin, is fantastic too, so trusting, welcoming, and open to sharing his knowledge and experiences. the… read more
5 Apr 2024
Left by host for Workawayer (Tana)
Tana's genuine care for the children was evident in every activity she organized and every moment she spent with them. What stood out was not just her energy, but also her heartfelt connection with the kids. They quickly grew fond of her, and her presence created a nurturing environment where they felt valued and supported.
Tana's time with us… read more
Tana's time with us… read more
(Excellent)
21 Jun 2023
Left by Workawayer (Tana) for host
This was not my first workaway, but it was by far my favorite workaway I have ever done. I was fortunate enough to volunteer with Alvin for one month but I wish I could have stayed forever. Alvin is truly the most kindhearted, driven, and inspirational person and has built an amazing environment and community for the stateless children of Labuan.… read more
19 Mar 2024
Left by Workawayer (MichaelPhilipp) for host
I visited the martial arts school together with my girlfriend.
We originally planned to stay two weeks but at the end we stayed nearly a month.
Our daily task was teaching the children and teenagers for four hours a day.
On the evening, we became the students and were able to join the kickboxing lessons, hosted by the older students.
The… read more
We originally planned to stay two weeks but at the end we stayed nearly a month.
Our daily task was teaching the children and teenagers for four hours a day.
On the evening, we became the students and were able to join the kickboxing lessons, hosted by the older students.
The… read more
10 Mar 2024
Left by Workawayer (Theresa) for host
We had our best workaway experience ever in Labuan. The children from the gym are really special and social. Everyone there is like a little family. We were warmly welcomed into their circle. We gave lessons in the morning and afternoon, and the children trained us in kickboxing in the evening :-). We were able to celebrate Chinese New Year… read more
14 Feb 2024
Left by Workawayer (Kira) for host
I stayed for 3 weeks with Alvin and the kids ☺️ The time we all shared was just incredible. First of all, Labuan is a beautiful island with great beaches, some hikes, sweet people and way more life and fun than you would expect from 90,000 citizens!! During my time there I met 6 other volunteers and we quickly became great friends! We split the… read more
11 Dec 2023
Left by Workawayer (Roberto) for host
I volunteered here for few weeks and it was an awesome experience! He's a great host and a beautiful person, always available to help about volunteer's requests and I appreciated his way to make clear what he expects from them. He clearly has a lot of passion for what he's doing and the kids are great too, smart and funny :)
It was an honor to… read more
It was an honor to… read more
11 Dec 2023
Left by Workawayer (Luca) for host
This is the first time i am volunteering so far away from home and in the field of martial arts. It took me a while to realize it was not a dream and that all the amazing experiences i have been living so far are all REAL! I had the pleasure of meeting real professionals in martial arts and exchanging practice tips with them. It was a wholesome… read more
30 Nov 2023
Left by Workawayer (Marine ) for host
This experience was really very interesting. I had the opportunity to meet a lovely family whose members were all very welcoming.
The children are very caring, kind and funny. They all already have their own character and evolve together in kindness, mutual aid and sharing.
Alvin is impressively determined, he is a sensitive and strong person, the… read more
The children are very caring, kind and funny. They all already have their own character and evolve together in kindness, mutual aid and sharing.
Alvin is impressively determined, he is a sensitive and strong person, the… read more
2 Nov 2023
Left by host for Workawayer (Marilu)
Marilu has been an exceptional volunteer teacher from Brazil. Her passion for teaching and dedication to our cause were truly inspiring. Marilu's active participation in our martial arts fitness classes, despite her busy teaching schedule, was a testament to her sporty spirit. Most importantly, her genuine love for the stateless children she… read more
(Excellent)
27 Oct 2023
Left by Workawayer (Marilu) for host
It was my first WE and I don't know is possible I find one better than this.
Alvin was very fast to answer my message and accept. I spent 1 wonderful month.
Alvin and your team (Chee Haw and Ellorna) are amazing. We had a lot meals together and always with moments to share informations and experiences.
It's beautiful listening Alvin talking about… read more
Alvin was very fast to answer my message and accept. I spent 1 wonderful month.
Alvin and your team (Chee Haw and Ellorna) are amazing. We had a lot meals together and always with moments to share informations and experiences.
It's beautiful listening Alvin talking about… read more
30 Oct 2023
Left by host for Workawayer (Dahlia)
As the host of a Martial Arts Academy for stateless children in Labuan, I have had the pleasure of hosting a volunteer teacher from Costa Rica for the past month. I am delighted to share that her contribution has been exceptional. The teacher has shown great dedication and kindness towards the children, making a positive impact on their lives. The… read more
(Excellent)
25 Oct 2023
Left by Workawayer (Dahlia) for host
I have no words for this experience. It completely changed my life. The project is so pure and kind-hearted. The kids are incredible, loving, and so greatful with everyone. I learnt so much from them, and I can never thank enough for my time in Labuan. I want to go back. Alvin you are doing something great, helping stateless kids have… read more
5 Oct 2023
Left by host for Workawayer (Ellie & William)
From the get-go, this lovely couple showcased a genuine affection for teaching. Their sessions were not just about imparting knowledge, but also about ensuring that every child felt valued and heard. They went beyond the conventional teaching methods, employing innovative and fun strategies that resonated deeply with the kids, making learning both… read more
(Excellent)
3 Jul 2023
Left by Workawayer (Ellie & William) for host
Our time was amazing! We volunteered at the school for just over three weeks and we wish we could have stayed forever :( Alvin and Chee Haw along with everyone else at the gym are incredible people who will do anything for you and make your time amazing in every way. Above all the most wonderful thing you’ll experience here is the time you’ll… read more
5 Oct 2023
Left by host for Workawayer (Adele)
From the moment Adele stepped into our place, it was evident that she was a beacon of positivity and energy. Volunteering all the way from Italy, she graciously dedicated two weeks of her time to the selfless mission of teaching and engaging with our stateless children.
Beyond the mats, she was an embodiment of warmth and friendship. Whether it… read more
Beyond the mats, she was an embodiment of warmth and friendship. Whether it… read more
(Excellent)
31 Aug 2023
Left by Workawayer (Adele) for host
This place is not only a simple gym neither a simple school, but it's truly a place of the heart. I spent only 10 days here but i've felt immediately welcomed like in a big superwarm family. The kids are so special... They are sweet, smart, proud of themselves; they train and attend the classes with an enthusiasm and a discipline that i couldn't… read more
4 Sep 2023
Left by host for Workawayer (Elodie & Maxime)
Elodie & Maxime are beautiful couples that love to teach the kids. They taught the kids about hydroponic system; singing; swimming; fencing; cooking and some interesting games.
They extended their stay for another week because they want to spend more times with the kids.
They are loving and funny, and easy to get along.
Take care and all the… read more
They extended their stay for another week because they want to spend more times with the kids.
They are loving and funny, and easy to get along.
Take care and all the… read more
(Excellent)
24 Jul 2023
Left by Workawayer (Elodie & Maxime) for host
On regrette déjà notre départ !!
Merci à Alvin de nous avoir permis de rencontrer tous ces enfants incroyables, nous n'oublierons jamais le temps passé, merci, merci ❤️
Ça aura été un vrai bonheur de donner des cours à des enfants aussi curieux, intelligents, gentils, attachants, motivés... Vous pouvez donner les cours que vous voulez. Parfois… read more
Merci à Alvin de nous avoir permis de rencontrer tous ces enfants incroyables, nous n'oublierons jamais le temps passé, merci, merci ❤️
Ça aura été un vrai bonheur de donner des cours à des enfants aussi curieux, intelligents, gentils, attachants, motivés... Vous pouvez donner les cours que vous voulez. Parfois… read more
4 Sep 2023
Left by host for Workawayer (Syldel)
Sylvie is a kind and loving, she loves to spend times with kids. She is a good listener and she will loves to know the stories of the kids.
Sylvie helped us to organize martial arts event and she volunteered another project in Rusukan Island too. Whenever you need help, Sylvie is very supportive.
Sylvie will continue her teacher course and we… read more
Sylvie helped us to organize martial arts event and she volunteered another project in Rusukan Island too. Whenever you need help, Sylvie is very supportive.
Sylvie will continue her teacher course and we… read more
(Excellent)
2 Jun 2023
Left by Workawayer (Syldel) for host
I spent one month with Alvin and the children of the Academy.
The first week, I got the opportunity to help Alvin’s friends receive guests on a small paradise island close by. It was amazing.
Then I taught the children for 3 weeks and led different activities like mathematics, improvisation, games, crafts and fencing. I had a very good time… read more
The first week, I got the opportunity to help Alvin’s friends receive guests on a small paradise island close by. It was amazing.
Then I taught the children for 3 weeks and led different activities like mathematics, improvisation, games, crafts and fencing. I had a very good time… read more
11 May 2023
Left by host for Workawayer (Natalie)
Even though Natalie only stay 1 week in Labuan, but we become good friend! We had a very good conversation throughout the week.
She is open-minded, and loves to share her travel stories.
Since she is a social worker, she planned her teaching syllabus ahead for the kids. The kids enjoyed the class and they spent extra time with her.
We hope… read more
She is open-minded, and loves to share her travel stories.
Since she is a social worker, she planned her teaching syllabus ahead for the kids. The kids enjoyed the class and they spent extra time with her.
We hope… read more
(Excellent)
1 May 2023
Left by Workawayer (Natalie) for host
I don't know where to start! It was an amazing decision to volunteer at Alvins place with the kids! I came during Hari Raya which was so awesome because we were visiting the kids houses, which was very special to me. The kids are super thankful for all the lessons you are teaching them and its great to spend time with them. The workaway days are… read more
11 May 2023
Left by host for Workawayer (Tessa & Nicholas)
Tessa & Nicholas is a beautiful couple that love the stateless children here, they are sporty and they are frisbee athletes. They taught the kids to sing; to swim and play frisbee. The kids had a wonderful time with Tessa & Nicholas.
Tessa & Nicholas joined the local dive club for underwater ghost nets cleaning program, they love the community… read more
Tessa & Nicholas joined the local dive club for underwater ghost nets cleaning program, they love the community… read more
(Excellent)
11 May 2023
Left by host for Workawayer (James)
James is friendly and fun, he got a different way to teach the stateless children. He will plan a good teaching program for the children. He loves spend time with the kids and he play games with them.
James stay for a month here and he creates a best memories for the kids.
The kids miss James and they love James will come back and visit again.
James stay for a month here and he creates a best memories for the kids.
The kids miss James and they love James will come back and visit again.
(Excellent)
11 May 2023
Left by host for Workawayer (Maica Cecilia)
Maica is positive, energetic and smart. She loves to teach the children and she loves to spend time with the children too. She is friendly and she is a good listener, she is a person who easily mixed up with others.
She is beautiful inside out and she will cried when she listen the stories of the stateless children.
The stateless children love… read more
She is beautiful inside out and she will cried when she listen the stories of the stateless children.
The stateless children love… read more
(Excellent)
28 Apr 2023
Left by Workawayer (Maica Cecilia) for host
Wow, this was my first workaway ever, but I don't think I'm going to find a better one! Alvin is such an inspiration and he gave me a warm welcome into his home and gym. The kids I taught were so sweet. They want to know all about you and are very open after you've gained their trust. There's a lot of freedom around the teaching part, so you can… read more
21 Apr 2023
Left by host for Workawayer (Sofia)
Sofia is always happy and active, she always full of energy with good personality. She stay here for 2 weeks and taught the kids here, She loves the kids and she spent a lot of times with the kids too.
(Excellent)
21 Mar 2023
Left by host for Workawayer (Conor)
Eanna is a fun and loving guy, he loves the kids very much. He been staying the academy for a month, he always got the good teaching plans for the kids, and he will always spent times with the kids.
We celebrated Chinese New Year together and he enjoyed the martial arts performance from the stateless students.
Eanna shared the stories of the … read more
We celebrated Chinese New Year together and he enjoyed the martial arts performance from the stateless students.
Eanna shared the stories of the … read more
(Excellent)
10 Feb 2023
Left by host for Workawayer (Kadie)
Kadie is very loving and helpful. She been helping a lot during our martial arts event too. The children enjoy the time with Kadie and we hope to see you again.
All the best!
All the best!
(Excellent)
20 Dec 2022
Left by Workawayer (Kadie) for host
The children are very special. Kind, generous and helpful. A pleasure to be around. Alvin, Chee Haw and everyone I met made me feel welcome. It was good to meet people from the local community and try delicious food. I taught English three times a week and helped with an annual Martial arts event, which was great to be involved in. Would recommend.
28 Oct 2022
Left by host for Workawayer (Julia)
Julia had deep empathy with stateless children. She will cry when I share the stories of the children.
She stayed here for a month and we become good friend, we gained some weight due to she really enjoy the foods in Labuan.
Thank you and wish you all the best and you are always welcome back to the family.
She stayed here for a month and we become good friend, we gained some weight due to she really enjoy the foods in Labuan.
Thank you and wish you all the best and you are always welcome back to the family.
(Excellent)
10 Sep 2022
Left by Workawayer (Julia) for host
I stayed at Alvin's place for a month, and it was the best thing ever! It is my first time using workaway, and there weren't many comments for his page which is why I was a bit hesitant to go at first. However, I am glad I went anyways! My job mainly consisted of teaching the children basic English conversations skills and basic math three times a… read more
1 Aug 2022
Left by host for Workawayer (Vincent & Armony)
Vincent and Armony are lovely, both of them are open minded. They really care about the kids, they supposed to stay only 2 weeks but they extended their stay for another week just to spend more times with the kids.
Vincent and Armony will plan the different teaching methods so the kids can learn better. The stateless kids really enjoy the… read more
Vincent and Armony will plan the different teaching methods so the kids can learn better. The stateless kids really enjoy the… read more
(Excellent)
19 Jul 2022
Left by Workawayer (Alice) for host
This was my first workaway and it did not disappoint! Alvin, Chee Haw and the kids have the kindest hearts and you'll instantly fall in love with the place. I spent 3 weeks here in total and I only wish I could have stayed longer. During the week I spent time teaching the kids and they were always so grateful for everything you taught them. I also… read more
5 Jul 2022
Left by host for Workawayer (Alice)
Dr. Alice is smart and she has a good demeanor and positive social interactions with the stateless children, motivating and inspiring the children to live a better life. Even she only stay for 3 weeks, the stateless students and the members love her very much.
Hope to see you again.
Hope to see you again.
(Excellent)
2 Aug 2019
Left by host for Workawayer (Shaun & Brooke)
Shaun, Brooke and Kat are beautiful people with beautiful mind. They spent time to teach the kids by sincerely, they are understanding, polite and fun to hang out with. 3 of them are certified yoga instructor too, I hope we can meet up again and wish you guys all the best!
(Excellent)
24 Jul 2019
Left by Workawayer (Shaun & Brooke) for host
We stayed here for 2 weeks and had a great time, I would highly recommend this workaway. The stateless kids that Alvin takes in to help here are such beautiful kids all with great hearts and you’d be lucky to have the opportunity to meet and teach them. They really need your help as they are unable to attend normal schools in Labuan.
Alvin showed… read more
Alvin showed… read more
