Tucked within the tropical rainforests of Sepilok, Sabah, the Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre (BSBCC) is one of the most overlooked yet meaningful attractions in Malaysian Borneo.
While many travelers make a beeline for the more famous Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre, few realize that just a short walk away lies another groundbreaking facility — one that is quietly doing critical work to protect and rehabilitate the world’s smallest bear species.
Established in 2008, the BSBCC was founded with a focused mission: to rescue, care for, and rehabilitate Malayan Sun Bears, many of whom were victims of illegal captivity, poaching, or habitat loss.
Though they may not be as widely known as Orangutans or Elephants, Sun Bears play a crucial role in maintaining the health of the rainforest ecosystem. As natural seed dispersers and termite controllers, they help sustain the biodiversity of the forest — yet their populations continue to decline due to deforestation and human exploitation.
This guide is designed for those who are asking the very reasonable question: What are the reasons to visit Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre? Is it worth visiting? Is it fun? If you’re short on time or planning a day trip from Sandakan, you’ll want to know whether it’s worth carving out a few hours to explore this lesser-known sanctuary.
What you’ll discover is that the BSBCC is not just a place to “see animals” — it’s a place that promotes ethical tourism, real education, and genuine wildlife conservation. Unlike commercial animal parks, this centre places animal welfare and environmental responsibility at the core of everything it does.
There are no selfie sessions with Sun Bears, no feeding shows, and no animal tricks. What you will find are bears rediscovering the wild instincts they were denied, within safe and carefully managed forest enclosures.
In the sections below, we’ll walk you through what makes this sanctuary special, how to plan your visit, what to expect during your time there, and how your contribution as a visitor makes a real difference. Whether you’re traveling with kids, driving in from Kota Kinabalu, or creating a nature-focused Sabah itinerary, this guide will help you decide how to make the most of your visit to this extraordinary and underrated destination.
What Is the Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre?
The Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre (BSBCC) is the only facility of its kind in Malaysia and one of the few in the world dedicated solely to the rescue, rehabilitation, and conservation of the Malayan Sun Bear, particularly the subspecies native to Borneo. Established in 2008, the centre was created in response to the alarming rate at which Sun Bears were being captured, abused, and driven out of their natural habitats.
Unlike commercial zoos or wildlife parks, the BSBCC operates as a non-profit research and education centre. Its primary mission is to rescue Sun Bears that have been kept as illegal pets or were found injured due to deforestation or poaching. These bears undergo rehabilitation with the long-term goal of releasing them back into protected forests whenever possible.
Spanning more than 2.5 hectares of natural lowland rainforest, the enclosures are designed to replicate the bears’ natural habitat and allow them to forage, climb, dig, and rest—just as they would in the wild. The BSBCC also collaborates with Malaysian wildlife authorities, universities, and conservation groups to conduct important research and public outreach.
For travelers, it’s an opportunity to witness a conservation model that balances animal welfare, public education, and ecological responsibility—all within the beautiful setting of Borneo’s rainforest.
Photo Credit: Andre Schneider
Why Are Bornean Sun Bears Endangered?
Sun bears (Helarctos Malayanus) are classified as “Vulnerable” by the IUCN, and their numbers in the wild continue to decline. The Bornean subspecies, in particular, face severe threats due to deforestation caused by logging and palm oil plantations, which have drastically reduced their natural habitat.
Despite being the smallest and least-studied of all bear species, Sun Bears play a vital ecological role in the rainforest. They help control insect populations, disperse seeds, and maintain the balance of forest growth by digging and foraging through decaying logs.
However, over the past few decades, Sun Bear populations have drastically declined, largely due to habitat destruction, illegal hunting, and the exotic pet trade.
The clearing of tropical rainforests for palm oil plantations and logging has fragmented their natural habitats, forcing Sun Bears into smaller, unprotected areas where they are more vulnerable to poaching and human conflict. Many are captured as cubs and kept in tiny cages for years, often without sunlight or proper nutrition, sold as pets or used in traditional medicine for their bile.
Unlike more charismatic animals such as Orangutans and Pandas, Sun Bears have received comparatively little conservation attention or funding—until now. That’s where the Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre (BSBCC) comes in.
By rescuing, rehabilitating, and when possible, releasing Sun Bears back into protected areas, the centre is directly addressing these threats. It also plays a vital role in public education, research, and policy advocacy, helping people understand why Sun Bears matter and how they can be protected. To learn more about the sanctuary and to support it, visit the official Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre (BSBCC) website.
What to Expect When You Visit
Visiting the BSBCC is a unique blend of a nature walk, wildlife encounter, and conservation lesson all in one. After entering the centre, you’ll follow a gently sloping trail into the rainforest that leads to a system of raised boardwalks and observation decks overlooking several forest enclosures.
These walkways are constructed several meters above ground and are shaded by towering trees, offering a serene canopy-level experience. From these platforms, you’ll be able to observe sun bears going about their day—digging up termite mounds, climbing trees, wrestling playfully, or relaxing in hammocks strung between the trunks.
There’s no rush, no tour guides hurrying you along; you’re invited to move at your own pace, stop at any of the viewing platforms, and quietly enjoy the surroundings.
Each enclosure has interpretive signage sharing the names and backstories of the bears inside. For example, you might learn about “Fulung”, who was rescued as a cub from illegal captivity and has since become one of the more active residents. These real stories add a personal touch to the experience, helping visitors better connect with the conservation mission.
The entire facility is quiet, clean, and naturally integrated into the rainforest, giving it an authentic, immersive feel. For photography enthusiasts, early morning and late afternoon provide the best lighting, while nature lovers will enjoy spotting other wildlife in the area, such as Hornbills, Macaques, or even wild Orangutans in the distance. Most visitors spend 1 to 2 hours here, making it easy to pair with other attractions in Sepilok.
Feeding Times and Facilities
Unlike some wildlife parks that stage daily “animal shows,” the BSBCC avoids turning feeding times into a spectacle. Instead, food is distributed at irregular times throughout the day, typically during the morning and late afternoon. Keepers place fruit, honey, and enrichment items in hidden spots across the enclosures to encourage natural foraging behavior. This helps the bears stay mentally stimulated and reduces their dependency on humans.
Because feeding isn’t synchronized to a fixed public schedule, visitors are encouraged to take their time. The longer you stay, the better your chances of observing more active behaviors. Early visitors are often rewarded with sightings of sun bears climbing trees or interacting with enrichment tools—like logs filled with honey or puzzle feeders.
As for visitor amenities, the centre offers:
- Well-maintained and wheelchair-accessible boardwalks
- Resting benches along the trail
- Interpretive panels explaining bear behaviors and threats
- A visitor information centre with videos and educational exhibits
- A souvenir shop featuring ethically sourced crafts and books
- Clean restrooms and access to nearby cafés located near the Orangutan centre
How to Get There from Sandakan or Kota Kinabalu
From Sandakan: Sepilok is just 25 KM West of Sandakan and can be reached via taxi, Grab, or local shuttle in about 30–40 minutes.
From Kota Kinabalu: The fastest way is a 45-minute flight to Sandakan Airport, followed by a short drive to Sepilok. For budget travelers, long-distance buses run between Kota Kinabalu and Sandakan, though the journey takes 6–8 hours.
The Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre is located next to the Sepilok Orangutan Centre, making it incredibly easy to visit both on the same day.
Entrance Fees, Opening Hours & Best Time to Visit
The Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre is open daily from 9:00 AM to 3:30 PM, including weekends and public holidays. The entrance counter closes at 3:00 PM, so plan your arrival with enough time to enjoy your visit without being rushed.
🎟️ Entrance Fees (as of 2025):
- International Adults: RM 50
- International Children (below 18): RM 25
- Malaysian Adults: RM 10
- Malaysian Children: RM 5
- Camera Fee: RM1,000 for cameras with lenses 500mm and above.
You don’t need to book in advance unless you’re part of a large group. Tickets are available at the gate, and you can pay by cash or card.
📆 Best Time to Visit:
The dry season (March–October) is generally the best time to visit Sepilok, as the weather is more predictable and walking conditions are ideal. However, the rainforest remains lush year-round, and the centre is still enjoyable during light rain or overcast days. Just be sure to bring insect repellent and a poncho if you’re visiting during the monsoon season (November–February).
The bears tend to be more active before noon and after 2 PM, so aim for these windows for the best viewing experience.
Can You Visit Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre and the Sun Bear Centre in One Day?
Absolutely. These two conservation centres are within walking distance of each other. Many visitors choose to see Orangutans at the 10:00 AM feeding, then head to the Sun Bear Centre around midday when it’s quieter.
The two experiences complement each other perfectly: one focused on primates, the other on bears—both tied together by a mission of ethical wildlife rehabilitation.
Educational Value for Families & Kids
The Bornean Sun Bear Centre is an excellent destination for families, particularly those traveling with school-aged children or teens with an interest in wildlife. The facility strikes a perfect balance between being informative and engaging, offering a real-world classroom in the heart of the rainforest.
The centre’s exhibits and signage are kid-friendly without being oversimplified. Children can learn about the anatomy of a sun bear, threats to their survival, and the importance of conservation through colorful visuals and storytelling panels. Seeing the bears in action also sparks natural curiosity—kids often leave with thoughtful questions and a better understanding of endangered species and their habitats.
The entire facility is stroller and wheelchair accessible, making it a comfortable stop for multigenerational families. There are shaded seating areas for rest, clean restrooms, and plenty of space for kids to explore safely under parental supervision.
The hands-off, respectful approach to wildlife also teaches valuable lessons about ethical tourism—something that children often carry with them into adulthood. For families seeking a meaningful and educational travel experience, this is one of the most memorable and impactful attractions in Sabah.
Is It Worth Visiting? Our Verdict & Our 5 Reasons For It
So, is the Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre worth visiting? Based on everything we’ve explored above, it absolutely is! And here are 5 powerful reasons why this inspiring sanctuary deserves a place on your Sabah itinerary:
1. Meaningful Wildlife Conservation in Action
Unlike commercial zoos, the Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre focuses purely on the rescue, rehabilitation, and protection of endangered Bornean Sun Bears. Your visit directly supports ethical conservation efforts and helps raise awareness for an often-overlooked species.
2. Educational and Eye-Opening Experience
The centre offers valuable insights into the lives of Sun Bears, their ecological role, and the threats they face. Through storytelling panels, observation decks, and real rescue stories, visitors gain a deeper understanding of rainforest conservation and ethical tourism.
3. Immersive Rainforest Setting
Surrounded by lush rainforest, the centre’s elevated boardwalks offer an authentic, peaceful wildlife-watching experience. Watching rescued bears rediscover their instincts in naturalistic enclosures creates a moving connection to nature.
4. Family-Friendly and Accessible for All Ages
Whether you’re traveling solo, as a family, or with elderly companions, the BSBCC’s safe, stroller- and wheelchair-friendly facilities make it a comfortable and enriching visit for all ages — especially for teaching kids about real-world conservation.
5. Impact Beyond Your Visit
Every entrance ticket, souvenir, or donation helps feed the bears, fund medical care, expand enclosures, and educate more people about protecting Borneo’s endangered wildlife. A few hours of your time contributes to a lasting, real-world difference.
FAQs
Q: How long should I spend at the centre?
A: Most visits last 1–2 hours. Combine with Sepilok for a full half-day trip.
Q: Are the Sun Bears dangerous to visitors?
A: No. Visitors remain on elevated walkways at a safe and respectful distance.
Q: Is the centre suitable for elderly or young children?
A: Yes. The walkways are safe, shaded, and accessible for all ages.
Final Thoughts
The Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre is more than just another stop on the tourist trail—it’s an invitation to see real conservation in action. In a quiet corner of the Borneo jungle, bears that were once mistreated are now given a second chance at life. And as a visitor, you become part of that story.
By visiting there, you’re not just watching animals behind glass. You’re witnessing the process of healing—bears learning to climb again after years in cages, rediscovering their instincts in enclosures that mimic the wild, and slowly becoming ambassadors for their species.
It’s powerful, humbling, and deeply moving to see how these animals, once victims of cruelty and exploitation, are now thriving thanks to dedicated conservationists and the support of everyday visitors.
From a traveler’s perspective, the experience ticks all the right boxes. It’s accessible, affordable, well-managed, and flexible enough to include in a half-day trip. Whether you’re an animal lover, a nature photographer, or a parent hoping to teach your child about empathy and environmental responsibility, the centre offers an experience that will stay with you long after you leave Sabah.
What makes it even more compelling is the fact that your visit isn’t just symbolic—it’s directly impactful. Every ticket, donation, or souvenir purchase contributes to feeding rescued bears, funding medical treatments, expanding forest enclosures, and reaching more communities through education. Make the time. Take the walk. Witness the work. And let it change the way you see wildlife—and the way you travel.
