14-05-2025
Four Sandakan eco-tourism attractions to be upgraded
Liew at the Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre with founder Dr Wong Siew Te.
SANDAKAN (May 14): Four key eco-tourism sites in Sandakan will undergo significant upgrades with a RM1.25 million allocation aimed at enhancing visitor experiences and supporting conservation efforts.
The funding — comprising RM750,000 from the federal government and RM500,000 from the Sabah government — will benefit the Sepilok Orang Utan Rehabilitation Centre, Borneo Sun Bear Conservation Centre, Agnes Keith House and the upcoming Martin & Osa Johnson Gallery.
The development of the Martin & Osa Johnson Gallery at the PWD 2002 Building, Agnes Keith House, to be carried out this year, is a joint effort by the state government to highlight the history of the exploration of the husband-and-wife duo, Martin and Osa Johnson, in the Kinabatangan region during the 1930s.
State Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister Datuk Seri Christina Liew who visited the centres on Wednesday, said these projects form part of the State Government's initiative to ensure Sabah is fully prepared for Visit Malaysia Year 2026.
The minister emphasized the Sabah government's commitment to ensuring that facilities provided for tourists, both domestic and international, are of the highest quality, safe, environmentally friendly, and of international standards.
At the same time, she noted that these upgrades would enhance the visitor experience while preserving the ecological value of the area for the long term.
The Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre, one of the oldest orangutan rehabilitation centres in the world, has drawn visitors from across the globe since its establishment in 1964. It plays a vital role in wildlife conservation efforts and serves as an educational centre for younger generations and international tourists alike.
Meanwhile, the Borneo Sun Bear Conservation Centre remains the only sun bear conservation facility in the world. It provides sanctuary for this endangered species and serves as a hub for environmental education and scientific research.
With infrastructure improvements, both centres are expected to attract more visitors and raise awareness about biodiversity conservation in Borneo.
These efforts are aligned with Sabah's broader commitment to advancing sustainable ecotourism, where environmental preservation and economic development go hand in hand.
