The communities of Krayan Hulu (Long Layu, Tang Laan, Tanjung Pasir) and Hulu Pujungan (Long Jelet, Long Pua) began developing ecotourism in mid-2001, through a WWF Project. They aimed to protect their biodiversity, scenic beauty, archaeological remains and cultural traditions and tap tourism potentials with neighboring Sarawak. They soon formed two community-based organizations: the LSM Tana Tam Krayan Hulu and Hulu Pujungan Ecotourism Organizations.

In March 2004, the project supported by GGF helped the organizations to engage in capacity building for a viable and sustainable community-based ecotourism. They went through the whole cycle of project development and learned to work with various individuals and institutions every step of the way.

They trained more local people in English and tour guiding and worked closely with guides and travel agents from Sarawak , to aggressively promote, network and learn more about the industry. They worked with Government on ecotourism planning and zoning and advocated for the recognition of the people's role in ecotourism management.

Ecotourism has now become more vibrant in the area. There are more visitors, more articles written about the new destinations, homestay facilities being improved and better-trained guides. Government has also become more open to ecotourism ideas, especially on planning, cultural appreciation, marketing of indigenous products and facilitating economic benefits to the local community while protecting the forest and the environment.

More importantly, the initiating community organizations have proven that ecotourism development adherent to local ecological and social conditions, is a viable option for selected areas in the Kayan Mentarang National Park .