Our Story

For four years, founders Julian Hyde and Lee Siew Yeen ran a dive centre on Tioman Island. Their experience there as a dive instructor and dive guide/company administrator respectively allowed them to meet people from all over the world. When they met some Malaysian medical students brought to the centre by their friend, lecturer Paul Jambunathan, they were struck by their limited worldview but still keen sense of adventure.

Julian and Yeen recognised this problem as structural - Malaysian students didn’t have access to the same kind of opportunities as many of their international peers. This reality moved the two to jump at the chance to begin offering Work and Travel programs in Malaysia. 

Julian and Yeen

Our goal is to open as many doors for you as possible.

They wanted to inspire, to empower, to invigorate a sense of wonder and adventure in Malaysian students. Both Julian and Yeen have experienced life abroad from their home countries and they believe those experiences to be integral to their personal development.

Since 2005, OOTB has helped students explore cultures and places, gain international work experience, and ultimately learn more about themselves. Out of the Box reflects this - pointing to ways for people to develop themselves, experience life and learn new skills.

Why Out of the Box?

  • "Everything that Ms Yeen did along the way with me is awesome and along the way I appreciate her help very much! She did a great job and making my summer such wonderful."

    Jenny, Summer 2022
    Cedar Point, Ohio

  • "OOTB is doing really great compared to my friend's agency from other countries, I think i know a lot more information compared to them."

    Ming Li, Summer 2022
    Xanterra Yellowstone National Park

  • "I don’t find anything that I am not satisfied with. You guys take care of us like your own kids. I really appreciate it. Thank you for making my dream comes true. It is indeed a memorable and fun experience. The best summer ever! "

    Joey, Summer 2019
    Cedar Point, Ohio

  • "OOTB is good! They response to your questions and inquiries spontaneously. They tried their best to answer your questions even they can't 100% sure on it. Big shout out and thanks to Michelle!!! She replied spontaneously and even at night (Malaysia Time). Really appreciate their help!!!!! (Michelle, Yeen) "

    Shiuan Chang, Winter 2019
    Clark’s Market, Colorado