SANDAKAN: The Borneo Bird Festival (BBF), Sabah’s signature eco-tourism and conservation event, celebrated its 15th anniversary this year with the theme “Nurturing Nature for 15 Remarkable Years.”
Held at the Rainforest Discovery Centre (RDC) in Sepilok on Oct 25 and 26, the festival continues to attract thousands of visitors annually, including birdwatchers, photographers, researchers, and nature enthusiasts from around the world.
The celebration began with a welcoming dinner on Oct 24, attended by Sabah Tourism Board Chief Executive Officer Julinus Jeffery Jimit, Sandakan Municipal Council
President Walter Kenson, Sandakan Borneo Bird Club President Dr Robert Ong, past presidents Cede Prudente and Gary Albert, and Dr Arthur Chung, who represented the Sabah Chief Conservator of Forests.
In his welcoming address, Dr Ong expressed appreciation to all sponsors, exhibitors, and participants who contributed to the success of BBF 2025. He also highlighted the growing international participation, with bird clubs from Thailand, Singapore, Fujian, Vietnam, and Malaysia taking part this year.
On the first day of the festival, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Tourism, Environment and Culture Datuk Josie Lai visited the booths and activities at RDC.
Visitors were treated to a variety of attractions, including the Borneo Bird Race, Photo Race, exhibitions, photography and video competitions, birdwatching trails, and local food stalls.
Over the past 15 years, the Borneo Bird Festival has grown from a modest local gathering into a regional movement promoting appreciation and protection of Borneo’s unique biodiversity. It has introduced countless individuals to birdwatching and wildlife photography, inspiring a new generation of “wildlife ambassadors” dedicated to conservation.
Supported by the Sabah Tourism Board, Sabah Forestry Department, Sabah Wildlife Department, and Sabah Parks, the festival has also inspired outreach programmes in schools and rural communities, nurturing young minds to appreciate and protect nature.
The recent expansion of the Rainforest Skywalk at RDC — now stretching an impressive 620 metres — offers visitors a more immersive experience, providing panoramic views of the rainforest canopy and its spectacular birdlife, including rare species such as the Bornean Bristlehead and Blue-headed Pitta.
Beyond its environmental mission, BBF has strengthened eco-tourism in Sabah, inspiring numerous bird fairs and nature events across the region. As the celebration continues, the Borneo Bird Festival stands as a testament to Sabah’s enduring commitment to conserving its rich natural heritage and fostering harmony between people and nature.
