Tourism facilities inspected for VMY 2026

14 May 2025

SANDAKAN: An official visit to the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre and the Borneo Sun Bear Conservation Centre in Sepilok, Sandakan, was carried out by Datuk Seri Christina Liew, Sabah’s Minister of Tourism, Culture and Environment, today.

She inspected the tourism facilities that are scheduled for upgrading this year.

The Minister stated that, “In 2025, a total of four upgrading projects have been approved – two funded by the Federal Government amounting to RM750,000.00, and another two under the Sabah State Government allocation worth RM500,000.00.”

She added that these projects are part of the State Government’s initiative to prepare Sabah comprehensively ahead of Visit Malaysia Year 2026.

She further emphasised the State Government’s commitment to ensuring that facilities provided for both local and international tourists are of the highest standards – safe, eco-friendly, and well-maintained.

At the same time, the upgrades will add value to the visitor experience while preserving the area’s ecosystem in the long term.

The Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre is one of the oldest of its kind in the world and has attracted visitors from across the globe since it opened in 1964.

It plays a vital role in wildlife conservation efforts and serves as an educational hub for younger generations and international tourists alike.

Meanwhile, the Borneo Sun Bear Conservation Centre is the only one of its kind globally, dedicated to protecting this endangered species while also serving as a centre for environmental education and research.

With improved infrastructure, the centre is expected to attract more visitors and raise greater awareness about biodiversity conservation in Borneo.

These upgrading efforts are in line with Sabah’s ongoing commitment to advancing eco-tourism in the state.