As the new year approaches, Michael Wong finds himself excitedly anticipating another birthday just around the corner. This special time offers him a wonderful opportunity to reflect on his life—celebrating his journey, appreciating the milestones he’s reached, and dreaming about all the adventures that lie ahead.
Growing up in the lively 1970s in Kuching, Sarawak, East Malaysia,
Michael’s childhood was a treasure chest of joy and exploration. Imagine
lush nature, colourful markets, and daily activities beckoning him to step
outside every morning. Those carefree days, filled with laughter and imagi-
nation, feel like a world away from the digital distractions that surround us
today.
Every morning, with his trusty bicycle and a backpack filled with essentials,
Michael was always ready to dive into the day. His backpack included a compass, a rope, an outdoor hack book filled with tips, a small knife, and his beloved Boy Scout guidebook. “Every moment was an adventure waiting to unfold,” he recalls with a smile, knowing these items deepened his connection to nature and fuelled his curious spirit.
As he reflects on his childhood, Michael acknowledges that these simple adventures were not just pastimes; they were formative experiences that
shaped his character and values. The freedom to explore, to fail, and to succeed in his own way instilled in him a sense of confidence and creativity.
Friendships flourished in this idyllic setting.
Michael and his friends formed tight-knit bonds through shared experiences—racing bikes down hills, playing games until dusk, and embarking on countless escapades. These moments fostered a profound sense of camaraderie, while activities like the Boy Scouts taught him teamwork and responsibility. “These experiences shaped who I am today,” he reflects, warmth radiating from his words.
Michael Wong remains grateful for the simplicity of his upbringing. The ad-
ventures of his youth allowed him to cultivate a deep appreciation for life’s
small joys and the beauty of exploration. Today, as the CEO and Co-Founder of ExoTrails, he strives to embody that same spirit of adventure and curiosity, inspiring others to seek out their own paths in life. For Michael, the good old days were not just a nostalgic memory; they were the foundation upon which he built his dreams.
A key figure in Michael’s life was his father, a fitness enthusiast whose vibrant energy inspired everyone around him. Michael fondly remembers his
father lifted weights and ran daily, bringing me and my brother along. Even as he got older, his dad embraced life fully, teaching dance classes and spreading joy through movement. “His commitment to fitness inspired me to always stay active,” Michael shares, grateful for his father’s unwavering guidance.
Equally important was the nurturing presence of his mother, who filled their
home with love and delicious aromas. Michael cherishes the hours spent in
the kitchen, learning traditional cooking techniques from her. Each dish
they prepared together was a celebration of culture and family—whether
they were feathering a chicken or whipping up homemade meals. “Cooking
with my mom was pure joy,” he remembers, highlighting how these moments helped deepen their bond.
Many of Michael’s childhood adventures included nature excursions with his
mother, where she would bring us out to the park, trails, and picnics in nature. These outings instilled a sense of wonder about the natural world
around him. “Every outing was an opportunity to learn and grow,” he
shares, and enjoying delightful treats like shaved ice and street snacks
made those adventures all the more special, teaching him to savour life’s
simple pleasures.
After high school, Michael took a brave leap and moved to Canada to pursue a degree in business and then switched to design. This new chapter opened his eyes to the breathtaking beauty of Canada’s nature, where majestic mountains and tranquil lakes welcomed him with open arms. “Being in nature here felt like a continuation of my childhood adventures,” he reflects, embracing how this connection has shaped his life.
As a parent, Michael is committed to giving his children the best experiences possible. Drawing from his own rich childhood, he is determined to provide his twins with a foundation filled with adventure and exploration. “I want them to experience the joy of discovery,” he says, his heart brimming with hope. He believes that virtues like kindness, gratitude, and humility aren’t just admirable traits; they’re the guiding principles of his life.
Michael actively nurtures these qualities, knowing they enhance his well-being and foster a sense of inner harmony. With a vision to enrich lives through exploration, Michael aspires to transform the ExoTrails app into a platform that encourages families to reconnect with nature. “I hope to leave a legacy with ExoTrails,” he shares with passion, eager to help others discover the beauty of the great outdoors.
In a world that often rushes toward the future, Michael gently reminds us
that today is a gift—something we once dreamed about. “Enjoy your today,” he encourages, inviting everyone to cherish the present. For Michael, the good old days are more than just memories; they are the foundation of his dreams. By nurturing a spirit of adventure and embodying the values of kindness and gratitude, he inspires others to create lasting memories together, proving that when we embrace the joy of exploration, we truly remain forever young.
