On Reciprocity: How Giving Back is Shaping the Future of Collaboration in Kuching

What does it truly mean to give back? Borneo Laboratory is answering that question in a powerful way.

At On Reciprocity, a five-day immersive program held at Think & Tink, Kuching, 22 global changemakers came together to explore the transformative power of reciprocity, the idea that when we take, we must also give back.

Through workshops, seminars, exhibitions, and collaborative projects, this unique gathering explored how reciprocal relationships between people, cultures, and ecosystems can create a more sustainable future.

The Power of Reciprocity: Why Giving Back Matters More Than Ever

At the heart of On Reciprocity is a simple but profound belief: when we give, we receive.

Inspired by a rattan practitioner in Kalimantan who once said, “Every time we take, we give back as well,” Wendy Teo, Founder of Borneo Laboratory, saw an opportunity to spark a global conversation on sustainability, collaboration, and shared responsibility.

“Through On Reciprocity, we hope to create a ripple effect that spreads shared knowledge and inspires action, reminding us that the art of giving back must not be lost to convenience.” – Wendy Teo

This initiative is made possible through Arts for All Seasons (ArtsFAS), a grant program by Yayasan Hasanah in collaboration with the Ministry of Finance, dedicated to preserving Malaysia’s arts, heritage, and culture. It is also supported by Nordisk Kulturfond’s Good Enough Transformation (GET) program and Goethe-Institut.

A Transformative Experience: 5 Days of Collaboration & Exploration

Seven Dimensions of Reciprocity

Participants explored reciprocity across seven key dimensions, deeply intertwined with human, cultural, and ecological relationships. These dimensions guided their work through:

• Gotong-royong activities in Kampung Peros, strengthening community bonds.
• Urban explorations in Kuching, uncovering the city’s hidden stories.
• A silent journey in Fairy Cave, reflecting on nature’s role in reciprocal balance.

“On Reciprocity creates a welcoming space where arts practitioners and climate activists can share their work authentically, forging meaningful and reciprocal connections.” – Mieke Renders, Managing Director, Trans Europe Halles

Sharing Knowledge with the Public: Exhibitions, Seminars & Publications

The insights from On Reciprocity will be shared with the wider public through:

Seminars & Discussions: Covering key topics such as:

• Union of Publication – The role of knowledge-sharing in reciprocity.
• Politics of Materials – How sustainable materials impact global ecosystems.
• Politics of Climate Narrative – The power of storytelling in climate advocacy.

Exhibition at Think & Tink (7th March – 7th June, 2025), Featuring works from the workshop, showcasing reciprocity’s impact on sustainability, culture, and design.

“Our Climate Glossary” (Releasing in April 2025), A publication featuring thought-provoking insights from participants across regions, cultures, and disciplines.

A Movement for the Future: How You Can Be Part of It

Reciprocity is more than just a concept, it’s a movement.

By supporting sustainable practices, knowledge-sharing, and creative collaboration, we can all contribute to a more balanced, responsible, and connected world.

Experience On Reciprocity: Visit the exhibition at Think & Tink, Kuching from 7th March – 7th June, 2025.
Read “Our Climate Glossary”: Stay tuned for the April 2025 release.

Follow the journey:

• Website: https://borneoartcollective.org
• Instagram: @borneolaboratory
• Facebook: Borneo Laboratory