BNT and BRL Strengthen Sabah’s Global Profile in Sustainable Tourism

The dedication of BNT and BRL staff in elevating the organisations to the global stage was recognised.

19 December 2025

KOTA KINABALU: Borneo Nature Tours (BNT) and Borneo Rainforest Lodge (BRL) are positioning themselves at the forefront of sustainable and experiential tourism in Sabah.

The two organisations will introduce the Blue Rings Tour and the Dusun Subpan Cultural Experience in 2026, broadening their offerings beyond rainforest-based experiences, said BNT and BRL Chief Operating Officer Sail Jamaludin.

Also scheduled for 2026 is the Danum Mountain Bike Race, a major event expected to raise Lahad Datu’s tourism profile. Sail made the announcement during the organisations’ staff appreciation dinner held at the Yayasan Sabah building.

Reflecting on achievements this year, Sail said BNT and BRL reached a new milestone by placing Sabah on the global tourism stage.

BNT was honoured with the LuxLife Leader in Luxury Award 2025 for Best Adventure Tour Operator in Malaysia.

“This recognition reflects our expertise, credibility and the trust that guests place in our experiences,” he said.

Meanwhile, BRL won three prestigious accolades at the World Luxury Hotel Awards 2025, Luxury Sustainable Hotel Malaysia, Luxury Eco Lodge Asia, and Luxury Wilderness Lodge Global, making it the only property in Sabah to achieve this distinction.

“These awards are a tribute to every department, from the front line to the back end. Each of you contributes to making BRL a world-class experience,” he said.

At the Borneo Bird Festival 2025, the BNT and BRL team secured first and second places in the Wildlife Video Contest, third place in the Bird Video Contest, and second place in the Artistic Bornean Bird Make-up Competition.

At the Sabah Hospitality Fiesta, the team won two gold and two silver awards.

Sail also highlighted ongoing efforts to improve staff welfare and well-being, including the construction of new staff quarters to provide a more comfortable living environment.

“We introduced AIA insurance coverage, which includes hospitalisation and surgery, term life insurance, general outpatient care, specialist consultations and dental care."

“Through our collaboration with Sony, the company subsidised 40 per cent of camera and lens purchases for staff, supporting their professional development in photography as well as personal interests,” he said.

“All these enhancements are made with one goal in mind, your growth, safety and happiness,” he added.

The organisations have also enhanced their products and guest experiences, including the introduction of a public swimming pool, a bird hide, and a refined canopy walkway with wheelchair-accessible sections, aimed at ensuring inclusivity and improving the overall visitor experience.

Cede Prudente was appointed lodge ambassador to strengthen guide mentoring and add value through speaker sessions for guests, he said.

Sail further announced that all staff would receive a bonus as a token of appreciation for their dedication throughout the year, and he expressed gratitude to the Board of Directors for their unwavering support and trust in the organisation’s vision.

BNT and BRL are subsidiary companies of the Yayasan Sabah Group of Companies.