On Reciprocity
On Reciprocity Collective Curatorial Statement
Exhibition period: 7th March 2025 – 7th June 2025
The exhibition is supported by Yayasan Hasanah, Malaysia.
The collective exhibition organized by Borneo Laboratory invites reflection on the ways we eat, learn, create, imagine, repair, and upcycle.
Featuring objects and arranged displays generated as outcomes of the On Reciprocity workshop and seminars held from 14th to 22nd February at Think & Tink, the exhibition seeks to create a contemplative journey—one that encourages us to reflect on our past and present relationships with food, knowledge, presence, and crisis.
Exhibitors List: Yuanchun Diao, China | Jennie Suddick, Canada | Mieke Renders, Sweden, Belgium | Lynn-Sayers McHattie, Scotland | Maya, Indonesia | Dr. Ingo Schöningh, Germany | Mai Huyền Chi, Vietnam | Wishulada Pantanuvong, Thailand | Jerrey David Aguilar, Philippines | Sophie Jerram, New Zealand | Khin Thet Htar Latt, Myanmar | Pham Minh Duc, Vietnam | Anang Saptoto, Indonesia | Amanda Ariawan, Indonesia | Rose Nordin, United Kingdom | Joanne Nathaniel, Malaysia
Facilitators List: Wendy Teo, Malaysia | Tham Chung Seng, Malaysia | Nathanie Ngu, Malaysia | Jane Chang, Malaysia | Kuik Yi Xuan, Malaysia | Zi Yan Liu, China
Seminar Series
Seminar 1: Politics of Food, Plating the Wild 4.0, led by Marian Chin (Malaysia)
Seminar 2: Ritual of Book Making, led by Jennie Suddick (Canada) and Rose Nordin (United Kingdom)
Seminar 3: Disaster Theatre, led by Sophie Jerram (New Zealand), Mai Huyền Chi (Vietnam) and Zi Yan Liu(China), together with Unimas FACA department students
Seminar 4: Union of Publications, led by Zi Yan Liu (China) and Rose Nordin (United Kingdom)
Seminar 5: Conversation with Culturans (Mexico GET Partner)
Seminar 6: Politics of Material, led by Anang Saptoto (Indonesia), Pham Minh Duc (Vietnam), Wishulada Pantanuvong (Thailand), Joanne Nathaniel (Malaysia), Khin Thet Htar Latt (Myanmar), Kuik Yi Xuan (Malaysia),
Seminar 7: Politics of Climatic Narratives, led by Sophie Jerram (New Zealand), Mai Huyền Chi (Vietnam) Mieke Renders (Sweden, Belgium) and Zi Yan Liu(China)
Seminar 8: Final Review, participated by everyone
About the Program: 2025 "On Reciprocity"
On Reciprocity is a transformative program organised by Borneo Laboratory that invites changemakers, cultural practitioners, researchers, and storytellers to delve into the concept of reciprocity as a guiding principle for collaboration, community-building, and environmental stewardship.
Rooted in the idea that reciprocity is the foundation of balanced relationships—between people, cultures, and ecosystems—the program serves as a platform to explore how reciprocal practices can inform and inspire new ways of thinking, working, and living.
At its heart, On Reciprocity emphasizes collective wisdom and action, bringing together diverse voices to share experiences and insights from their unique landscapes. It seeks to amplify the stories of reciprocity from both tangible and intangible perspectives, fostering a deeper understanding of its transformative potential.
The program comprises:
Workshops: (14th –18th February, 2025): Collaborative spaces for reflection, sharing, and co-creating projects that embody the essence of reciprocity.
A Multimedia Exhibition: (Starting 7th March, 2025): Expanding selected stories into dynamic, interactive forms to engage wider audiences.
A Series of Seminars: (14th –7th March, 2025): Public seminars featuring thought-provoking perspectives from changemakers across the region.
Through these interconnected components, On Reciprocity aims to create a ripple effect of shared knowledge and action, inspiring participants and audiences alike to embrace reciprocity as a tool for positive change.
Meaning of Reciprocity
In either the workshop or publication of On Reciprocity, the concept of reciprocity is explored as a multifaceted principle, deeply rooted in human, cultural, and ecological relationships. The workshop aims to unpack the diverse interpretations and applications of reciprocity across landscapes and practices. Here are the dimensions of reciprocity we aim to highlight
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At its simplest, reciprocity can mean the act of giving and receiving—a cycle of mutual benefit. In this workshop, we explore how exchanges between individuals, communities, and ecosystems are not just transactional but relational, fostering trust and collaboration. We will examine how these exchanges can be reimagined to emphasize fairness and sustainability.
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Reciprocity involves acknowledging interconnectedness: recognizing the roles, contributions, and existence of others—whether people, cultures, or nature. It asks us to reflect on how our actions impact the world and to act with gratitude and awareness. Through storytelling and case studies, participants will delve into how acknowledgment nurtures empathy and bridges divides.
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This workshop frames reciprocity as an ethical responsibility—responding to what we receive by giving back. Whether it’s nurturing the land we cultivate, uplifting the communities we are part of, or preserving traditions passed down to us, reciprocity becomes a practice of accountability and care.
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Reciprocity serves as a tool for achieving balance. It is not just about equal exchange but about restoring equilibrium in relationships where there may be power imbalances, historical injustices, or ecological degradation. The workshop will explore practices that strive to restore and maintain this balance through equity and justice.
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Reciprocity can also be a driver for transformation—shaping how we think, interact, and create. It challenges participants to go beyond transactional interactions, encouraging them to build systems, communities, and creative works that embody interdependence, sustainability, and mutual respect.
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Drawing inspiration from natural systems, reciprocity in the environment reflects how organisms coexist and support one another. Participants will explore parallels between ecological reciprocity and human systems, considering how nature can guide the design of more harmonious and regenerative practices.
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Not all reciprocity is tangible. The exchange of knowledge, cultural traditions, emotional support, and creative ideas also falls within its realm. The workshop encourages participants to reflect on how intangible reciprocity shapes identities, strengthens bonds, and fosters innovation.
By exploring these expanded meanings of reciprocity, the workshop seeks to:
Foster deeper reflections on personal and collective practices of reciprocity.
Inspire actionable ideas for building sustainable and equitable systems.
Provide tools and stories that participants can bring back to their communities, fostering a culture of reciprocity in varied contexts.
This multifaceted exploration ensures that reciprocity is not only understood as a concept but also practiced as a transformative force for building more connected, caring, and resilient communities.
Open Call for Workshop Participation: "On Reciprocity"
We are thrilled to announce an open call for participants in the On Reciprocity workshop, part of the February 2025 Borneo Laboratory’s Testbed in Good Enough Transformation. This workshop will bring together changemakers, cultural practitioners, researchers, and storytellers for an immersive exploration of reciprocity across diverse landscapes and practices.
About the Workshop
This workshop offers a unique opportunity to collaboratively engage with the principles of reciprocity, crowd wisdom, and collective action. Through interactive sessions, hands-on activities, and group discussions, participants will contribute to shaping stories and ideas that demonstrate how reciprocity can transform relationships, communities, and ecosystems.
Workshop Details
Dates: February 14–18, 2025
Location: Think & Tink, Kuching, Borneo
This program is designed to foster deep reflection, meaningful sharing, and active listening, creating a space where participants can connect and collaborate on projects inspired by the theme of reciprocity.
Who Should Apply?
We welcome applications from individuals across diverse backgrounds who are passionate about exploring the intersections of culture, community, and environment through the lens of reciprocity. Whether you are a creative professional, researcher, community leader, or storyteller, your unique perspective and voice are invaluable to this gathering.
How to Apply
To apply, please prepare the following materials
The Landscape of Reciprocity: Share an essay (800–1000 words) reflecting on reciprocity as experienced, practiced, or observed in your region, and explain your interest in the workshop and its alignment with your work or practice.
Short Bio: A brief introduction (200 words max).
Optional: Links to relevant work or projects.
Refundable Application Deposit:
To apply, all applicants must pay a refundable deposit of 50 MYR. This amount will be fully refunded (minus payment portal processing fees) if the application is not successful.Program Fee:
Early Bird Offer: 1500 MYR (apply before 31 December 2024)
Full Fee: 1800 MYR
The program fee is only due upon acceptance into the program.
Application Deadline: January 10, 2025
Briefing Session: December 18, 2024.
A free online information session is scheduled on 18th of December 7:30pm Kuching time to provide information about the On Reciprocity programme and gathering, and to answer any questions. Please register at {link} to access the Zoom call details. A recording of the session will be sent to all registered parties.
Rolling admission with a total of 20 spots available. The recruitment will close once full.
For further updates, please follow our social media
Facebook & Instagram : @borneolaboratory
Email: blablearning@gmail.com
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Wendy Teo
Facilitator
Wendy Teo, a Malaysian-born UK ARB/RIBA Chartered Architect, Curator, Researcher, and Tutor, is dedicated to embedding social-cultural dialogue into design. This commitment defines her professional pursuit. Teo received her B.Arch (Dist.) from Taiwan Feng Chia University and her M.Arch (Dist.) from the Bartlett School of Architecture, UCL. During her tenure at Foster and Partners, she completed her ARB Part III course at Cambridge University and became a LEED Green Associate.
At her multidisciplinary design practice, Wendy Teo Atelier, and her creative agency, Borneo Laboratory, Teo’s work spans architecture, structure, research, and publications. Her projects attempted to impact the social and cultural scenes with critical discourse. Recently, Teo has expanded her research to incorporate regenerative practices inspired by ancestral wisdom and rooted cultural practices.
As the director of Think & Tink, formerly Ting & Ting Supermarket, Teo focuses on transforming this destination into a shared platform for Borneo Laboratory and its regional partners in art, regenerative practices, urban technology, and digital fabrication. The ultimate goal is to cultivate a “mind factory” within the city, encouraging deep thinking and bold actions.
Throughout her career, Wendy Teo’s projects have received international acclaim, including the Holcim Sustainable Next Generation Award (First Prize), Archiprix, and the Threadneedle Prize. Her work has been exhibited globally in the UK, France, Germany, Slovenia, Turkey, and Taiwan. Notably, her projects were featured in the 2013/14 Archilab ‘Naturalising Architecture’ exhibition, curated by Pompidou Center director Frédéric Migayrou and FRAC Orléans Director Marie-Ange Brayer. Wendy Teo is also a recipient of the 2024 Study UK Alumni Award and the 2023 Feng Chia Alumni Award. text goes here
Nathanie Ngu
Facilitator
Nathanie, born and raised in Kuching, is in love with the earth and its life forms. Her spiritual practices are rooted in the principles of collective consciousness, with a strong belief in the moral responsibility of self-discovery. She channels her creative energies into building bridges between individual narratives and the universe, whether through music, design, or storytelling.
Her education and career have been centered on sustainable development, exploring the intersections of policy, economics, and social and environmental impact. Alongside this, her personal journey is centered on soul development - using music, performance art, and connecting with strangers to navigate and inspire cultural shifts.
Ziyan Liu
Facilitator
Ziyan, from Yueyang, the city by the Yangtze River and Dongting Lake in China.
Woman in theatre, facilitator, feeling and knowing herself all the time, but is not good at introducing herself. She studied theater in France and Germany. She worked for NGOs and community foundation, running large-scale sustainability education programs, also designing theatre workshops in in the wilderness of Tibetan Plateau, experiencing body, space and spirit.
Tham Chung Seng
Programme Manager
Born and raised in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, Tham is an event project manager by profession and a self-proclaimed wanderer. 12 years ago, he left his hometown to explore opportunities across different cities in Asia and is now based in Chiang Mai, Thailand.
Throughout his career, Tham has successfully orchestrated a diverse range of events across the Asia-Pacific region, particularly in Malaysia, China, and Thailand. His portfolio includes high-profile lifestyle events, arts festivals, immersive theatre productions, and community-driven projects.
Driven by a passion for transforming exceptional concepts into reality, Tham remains dynamic and continually pushes boundaries, embracing projects across a wide spectrum of creative and experiential fields.
Kuik Yi Xuan
Programme Manager
Kuik Yi Xuan, born in Kuala Lumpur and based in Beijing, is a multidisciplinary creative planner with extensive experience in arts, culture, fashion, and large-scale events. Her career highlights include launching innovative projects like Isle to Isle and the Window Shopping art initiative at the George Town Festival, and facilitating youth engagement in environmental projects at Chowrasta Wet Market.
In Beijing, she managed Anish Kapoor’s China exhibition tour and contributed to global fashion events, including Louis Vuitton and Balenciaga showcases, as part of La Mode en Images. In 2024, Yi Xuan founded her own studio to bridge creative industries and foster collaboration through innovative projects.
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Think & Tink, previously known as Ting & Ting Supermarket, this site is a gallery and workshop space powered by Borneo Laboratory and its regional partners in art, performance, publication and culinary fields. Think & Tink sees itself as a mind factory of the city, its end goal is to populate the city with more thinkers, it is Borneo Laboratory’s further attempt to encourage the city to think deeply, act daringly.
With ‘Innovation through Collaboration’ as its fundamental approach, Think & Tink is designed to be a testbed for several year-long experimental projects of multiple disciplines, namely urban technology, architecture & landscape design, digital fabrication, decentralised education programme and material research.
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Borneo Laboratory is a Kuching based multidisciplinary platform for the experimentation of Borneo Aesthetics – an aesthetics that emphasizes collaboration and open dialogue. Our movement has been inspired by the idea of ‘Berjalai’- conversing with the world, which is also a deep-rooted cultural idea in the Borneo landscape.
Since we started six years ago, we have explored a number of cross-regional collaborative projects that involved collaborators from France, Germany, UK, Italy, Taiwan, Thailand, Indonesia and Malaysia. Thus far, our production covers products ranging from publication, documentation, crafts, curation and architectural design.
In our collaborations, we have been consciously engaging people of diverse disciplines. Regardless if it is a publication or building, it is crucial for us to see our projects end up delivering empathetic experience with universal value.
In the tendency of most art practices to have moved towards a rather domestic focus with their projects and researches since the Covid-19 pandemic, Borneo Laboratory decided to embrace an artistic statement of ‘connect widely, think deeply and act daringly’. The team in Borneo Laboratory believes in being a manifestation of what we are believing in. Only by being so, a global narrative of art and culture will stand a chance to be translated into tangible and positive actions beyond the realm of art.
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Climate change is ushering in a host of challenges, including rising temperatures, extreme weather events, and disturbances to ecosystems. Our relentless exploitation of the Earth's resources through deforestation and habitat destruction exacerbates these issues, leading to a loss of biodiversity. The most vulnerable communities bear the brunt of environmental degradation, exacerbating social inequalities. Urgent action is needed for our collective future, as the stakes have never been higher. The imperative for a transition to green practices has never been more pertinent.
Responding to this imperative, Borneo Laboratory, in collaboration with partners spanning nine countries across four continents, introduces the Good Enough Transformation (GET) project. With support from the Nordisk Kulturfond's Globus Programme (2024-2025), this initiative aims to foster a community of practice comprising academics, architects, designers, cultural institutions, and grassroots communities.
Representatives from nine cultural organizations, research institutions, and architectural studios hailing from Burkina Faso (Tamadia), Canada(Global Center for Climate Action), Cyprus (Gardens of the Future), Denmark (Institut for (X)), France(PPCM), Morocco(RTDA Studio), Malaysia(Borneo Laboratory), Mexico (Culturans), and Sweden (Trans Europe Halles) are pooling their expertise to redefine the arts, culture, and creative industries sectors. Their goal is to better integrate traditional knowledge, community involvement, sustainable architecture, circular design principles, productive landscaping, responsible farming methods, and other socially and environmentally conscious practices into the (re)development, design, and landscaping of artistic spaces. GET is dedicated to researching, documenting, and facilitating affordable, sustainable, and readily accessible green transformations for art communities worldwide.
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Pricing and Rationale
On Reciprocity is a non-profit initiative. All revenues received will go towards covering the costs of community building after we published the publication, as well as the development of the Programme in order to enable more practitioners around the world to collectively explore and discuss on the practices of reciprocity.
You will NOT be denied if you cannot pay. If you have abundant resources, or sponsorship from your workplace however, contributing more than customary rates will enable us to serve more of those who need them.
Our programme price includes:
Fees for guest sharers, facilitation, venue fees, field trips, course materials and local transportation for the 6-day, 5-night program
Three meals a day
Accommodation in a shared room
The price DOES NOT include transportation to and from the programme location.
Cancellation Policy
Full refund before 30th January 2025
50% Refund before 1st February 2025
No Refund after 1st February 2025
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Kuching, the capital city of Sarawak in Malaysia, is a vibrant and culturally rich destination located on the island of Borneo. Known as the “Cat City,” Kuching is a place where modernity meets tradition, offering a unique blend of historical landmarks, diverse cultures, and stunning natural beauty.
i) Cultural and Historical Significance
Kuching’s history is deeply intertwined with the Brooke family dynasty, which ruled Sarawak as the White Rajahs for over a century. This legacy is visible in many historical buildings and monuments, such as the Astana, Fort Margherita, and the Old Courthouse. The city is also home to the Sarawak Museum, one of the oldest and most comprehensive museums in Southeast Asia, showcasing the region’s rich cultural heritage and natural history. The Borneo Cultures Museum, a new addition, offers state-of-the-art exhibits on Borneo’s diverse cultures and ecosystems, providing a modern complement to the historical displays of the Sarawak Museum.
ii) Kuching Heritage Trail
The Kuching Heritage Trail is a must-explore for visitors interested in the city’s rich past. This self-guided walking tour takes you through Kuching’s historical core, highlighting key landmarks and offering a glimpse into the city’s colonial and indigenous heritage.
Sarawak State Museum The Sarawak State Museum, established in 1891, is one of the oldest and most renowned museums in Southeast Asia. Housed in a grand colonial-era building, the museum boasts extensive collections of ethnographic and natural history artifacts. Visitors can explore exhibits that showcase the diverse cultures of Sarawak’s indigenous peoples, including traditional costumes, tools, and crafts. The museum also features comprehensive displays on the region’s flora and fauna, geological history, and archaeological findings, providing a thorough understanding of Sarawak’s rich biodiversity and cultural heritage.
Borneo Cultures Museum The Borneo Cultures Museum, a modern architectural marvel, is the largest museum in Malaysia and a centerpiece of Kuching’s cultural landscape. Opened in 2020, this state-of-the-art facility offers five floors of interactive and immersive exhibits that celebrate the cultural diversity and natural wonders of Borneo. The museum’s displays are organized thematically, covering topics such as the history and cultures of Borneo’s indigenous groups, traditional and contemporary art, and the island’s unique ecosystems. Highlights include lifelike dioramas, digital installations, and hands-on activities that engage visitors of all ages. The Borneo Cultures Museum serves as a dynamic space for education, cultural exchange, and community engagement, reflecting Sarawak’s commitment to preserving and promoting its heritage.
Other key stops on the heritage trail include the Chinese History Museum, which chronicles the contributions of the Chinese community to Sarawak’s development, and the Islamic Museum, which explores the influence of Islam in the region. Along the trail, you can also visit the Textile Museum, showcasing traditional textiles and weaving techniques, and the Cat Museum, dedicated to all things feline and reflecting the city’s nickname.
iii) Diverse Cultures and Natural Beauty
Kuching is a melting pot of cultures, with a population comprising Dayak, Chinese, Malay and various indigenous groups such as the Iban, Bidayuh, and Orang Ulu. This diversity is reflected in the city’s vibrant festivals, colourful markets, and a wide array of culinary delights. Visitors can explore the bustling streets of Chinatown, enjoy traditional Malay cuisine, or experience the unique flavors of indigenous dishes.
Kuching is surrounded by breathtaking natural landscapes, from lush rainforests and serene rivers to pristine beaches and majestic mountains. The city serves as a gateway to numerous national parks, including Bako National Park, known for its diverse wildlife and stunning coastal scenery, and Gunung Gading National Park, home to the world’s largest flower, the Rafflesia. For those seeking adventure, the nearby Sarawak River offers opportunities for kayaking, river cruises, and cultural village visits.
iv) Sarawak 2030 Smart City Initiatives and Cultural Initiatives
Kuching is at the forefront of Sarawak’s ambitious 2030 Smart City initiatives, aimed at transforming the city into a technologically advanced and sustainable urban center. These initiatives focus on improving the quality of life for residents through the integration of smart technologies in various sectors, including transportation, healthcare, and public services. The introduction of Automated Rapid Transit (ART) is a significant infrastructural development, providing a modern and efficient public transportation system that reduces traffic congestion and promotes sustainable urban mobility. Additionally, the city has invested in various cultural initiatives, including the annual Rainforest World Music Festival and the Kuching Festival, which celebrate local and international arts, music, and cuisine, fostering cultural exchange and community engagement.
Open Call for Publication Content: Exploring "On Reciprocity"
We are thrilled to invite contributions to our upcoming publication, part of the program “On Reciprocity.” This open call seeks thought-provoking and insightful content that explores the diverse landscapes of reciprocity—across regions, cultures, and practices—in both tangible and intangible ways.
We welcome submissions from changemakers, cultural practitioners, researchers, and storytellers to share their perspectives on how different interpretations of reciprocity shape relationships, communities, and ecosystems. Contributions may include essays, case studies, reflections, or creative pieces (800–1000 words), accompanied by photographs or videos.
Selected submissions will be featured in the final publication, with four chosen to be expanded into a multimedia exhibition, offering a broader platform to amplify these stories to the On Reciprocity audience.
Submission Deadline: January 31, 2025
Submission Guidelines:
Word count: 800–1000 words
Format: Word or PDF document
Language: English
We look forward to discovering your unique interpretations of reciprocity and sharing these powerful stories with a wider audience.
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Q: Will contributors receive copies of the publication?
A: Yes, as part of our commitment to reciprocity, we will send finished copies of the publication to participants. These can be distributed or sold within their respective regions. The number of copies allocated to each participant will depend on the total number of participants and the distribution channels available to contributors.
Contributors may retain any proceeds generated from sales in their own regions. While we will handle the production and printing of the publication, please note that we are unable to provide payment for accepted pieces. However, the arrangement outlined above ensures contributors have the opportunity to benefit directly within their communities.
