Contributing Writer: Elwa Gloria Justin
Located just 23 km from Sandakan Airport and hidden in the lush rainforest of Sepilok, just a short walk from the famous orangutan rehabilitation centre, lies a sanctuary dedicated to one of Borneo’s most overlooked creatures: the sun bear. Known for the golden crescent mark on their chest, these are the world’s smallest bears, yet their survival has long been under threat.
The story of the Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre (BSBCC) began with Dr. Wong Siew Te, a wildlife biologist who couldn’t ignore the plight of sun bears kept illegally as pets or trapped by deforestation. In 2008, his vision became reality: a centre that rescues bears, rehabilitates them, and, whenever possible, returns them to the wild.
Today, the centre is home to more than 40 rescued sun bears, each with a story of hardship: orphans whose mothers were killed, cubs taken for the pet trade, adults kept in tiny cages. At BSBCC, they rediscover the forest: climbing trees, digging for termites, and foraging freely within spacious forest enclosures.
This is all the actual heights of the bears in the world. Look how small the Sun Bear is!
Without realising it, visitors also become part of this conservation journey. From raised boardwalks and observation platforms, you can watch the bears as they roam, climb, and play. Informative displays and guided talks reveal not just their behavior, but also the challenges they face, from habitat loss to poaching. And as you explore, don’t forget to look around! The rainforest is full of surprises, with birds, monkeys, and other wildlife often making an appearance along the trail.
Admission Rates
| Age Category | Malaysian | Non-Malaysian | Permanent Resident / International Students in Malaysia |
|---|---|---|---|
| Under 2 years old | FREE | FREE | FREE |
| 2–17 years old | MYR 5 | MYR 25 | MYR 15 |
| 18 years old & above | MYR 10 | MYR 50 | MYR 30 |
Permanent Residents and International Students studying in Malaysia are required to present valid supporting documents to enjoy the special rate.
BSBCC Adopt and Donate Programme
Adopting a sun bear at the Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre (BSBCC) contributes to the bears’ rehabilitation. There are two primary programs: the “My Bear Adoption” program offers special possibilities, while the “Share Bear Adoption” program, which costs around RM300 annually, includes advantages such a sun bear soft toy, t-shirt, and updates. Adoption is possible through online or at the conservation site. The BSBCC’s special efforts to prepare possible release candidates for forest life are aided by adoption.
Visit https://www.bsbcc.org.my/adopt-and-donate for more info.
Here, in the heart of Sepilok, the smallest bear tells the biggest story, one of resilience, compassion, and the belief that no species is too small to save.
