BSBCCI home to 42 rescued sun bears, popular tourist attraction

Wong (left) with Liew on a guided tour of the BSBCC

27 June 2025

SANDAKAN: The Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Environment (KePKAS) has played a pivotal role in nurturing the growth and development of the Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre (BSBCC) since its establishment in 2008.

Its Minister, Datuk Seri Christina Liew, highlighted that the BSBCC is the only facility of its kind globally dedicated to the protection of this endangered species. The centre is a collaborative project with the Sabah Wildlife Department (JHL), an agency under the Ministry, and the Sabah Forestry Department.

Sun bears are classified as a Class 1 Protected Species under the state's Wildlife Conservation Enactment 1997.

"Last year, KePKAS allocated RM228,420 for the construction of Phase 1 of the Entrance Foyer, which has now been completed. This year, an additional RM250,000 was allocated for the construction of Phase 2 of the Entrance Foyer, with work scheduled to commence soon," Liew informed reporters following a recent visit to the centre here.

She noted that the 17-year-old tourist attraction, which is home to 42 rescued sun bears, continues to attract both local and international visitors like a magnet.

"I was informed by its Founder and CEO, Dr (Hon) Wong Siew Te, that the Centre received 79,362 visitors in 2024, averaging around 6,613 visitors per month. Of these, visitors from 115 countries came, with the United Kingdom, Australia, and Italy being the top three international nationalities," she said.

The peak visitation period is from July to October, generating the highest visitor numbers, although Malaysian visitors tend to visit more during school holidays.

The Centre's visitors include educators, researchers, school children and teachers, wildlife conservationists, animal lovers, and nature enthusiasts—most of whom are drawn to the centre’s focus on the sun bears’ natural habitat. Many may not realise that the BSBCC also serves as the primary implementing agency for the 10-Year State Sun Bear Action Plan, Liew added.

A major highlight for visitors is observing the sun bears exhibiting their natural behaviours within the rainforest environment. "Visitors can often see the bears climbing and sleeping high in the trees. Additionally, we conduct random feedings, allowing visitors to see the bears eating," explained Dr Wong.

All the sun bears at BSBCC have been rescued from illegal pet keeping after their mothers were slaughtered by poachers. Over the past 17 years, the Sabah Wildlife Department (JHL) has rescued 70 orphaned sun bears and brought them to the centre for rehabilitation, Dr Wong disclosed.

Liew praised Dr Wong for his unwavering dedication, patience, and perseverance in maintaining the centre despite numerous challenges.

During a guided tour, Dr Wong highlighted sun bears housed in Pen B, C, and D, where visitors can observe and learn about them. "We regard these bears as ambassadors for their species, helping to raise awareness among the public and supporting our research projects," he explained.

Regarding his multifaceted role as founder and owner of BSBCC, Dr Wong remarked: "Since establishing the centre 17 years ago, I have been involved in every aspect—from designing the facilities and caring for the bears to conducting educational and research programmes, as well as fundraising, gardening, and even cleaning the toilets."

He emphasised the centre’s commitment to the bears' rehabilitation: "We strive to provide the best care possible. Thirteen rescued sun bears have been successfull

Acknowledging the support from KePKAS, Dr Wong expressed his gratitude: "The Ministry has been instrumental over the past 17 years. They helped us secure funding at the centre’s inception in 2008 and provided operational grants in 2013. I sincerely hope they will continue supporting our work in the future."

He also highlighted the assistance from the Sabah Tourism Board (STB), an agency under KePKAS, which has helped promote the centre both locally and internationally. "We promote the centre through social media platforms such as Facebook, TikTok, X, and YouTube, as well as our website," he added.

Reflecting on the centre’s early years, Dr Wong shared that from 2008 to 2013, BSBCC relied heavily on public donations and grants from international funders. "Since opening to the public on 16 January 2014, we have depended mainly on ticket sales and souvenir sales to sustain operations."

He acknowledged that one of the greatest challenges remains securing sufficient funding—not only for maintenance but also for expansion. "Finding capable staff to help manage the centre is also a significant challenge."o

Looking ahead, Dr Wong envisions constructing a third observation platform, an interpretation centre, a new office building, and a captive breeding enclosure. "These projects require funding, and I am committed to working for another 30 years to see them realised. I am confident that by then, successors will carry forward the mission," he said with determination.

He also revealed that he still needs to raise RM1,000,000 to build a Field Office and staff accommodation for the Tabin Sun Bear Project, underscoring his ongoing dedication to the cause.