Kota Kinabalu: Hyatt Regency Kinabalu joined forces with Pangolin Aware, with support from the Sabah Wildlife Department, to host Pangolin Awareness Day on May 23, highlighting the urgent need to protect the critically endangered Sunda pangolin (Manis javanica), one of the world’s most trafficked mammals.
The programme brought together students from SK St. Anthony, SK Pekan Putatan and University College Sabah Foundation (UCSF), as well as educators, hotel associates, tourists and members of the public, aiming to encourage greater public responsibility and collective action in wildlife conservation and environmental protection.
In Sabah, the Sunda pangolin is classified as a Totally Protected species under the Wildlife Conservation Enactment 1997, making hunting, possession and trade illegal.
The event featured conservation talks, wildlife law sharing sessions, educational exhibition booths and interactive learning activities highlighting threats such as poaching, illegal wildlife trade and wildlife consumption.
“At Hyatt, we believe hospitality extends beyond the guest experience. Through our commitment to care, sustainability and responsible tourism, we are proud to support initiatives that promote environmental awareness and help protect Sabah’s unique biodiversity, including vulnerable species such as the Sunda pangolin.
“By working together with organisations such as Pangolin Aware, we hope to inspire greater appreciation and responsibility towards wildlife conservation among our communities, visitors and future generations,” said Hyatt Regency Kinabalu Sales and Marketing Director Indra Siarthika.
Meanwhile, Pangolin Aware Director Dr Elisa Panjang said the programme highlighted the importance of partnerships in conservation efforts.
“Protecting pangolins requires collective action from communities, businesses, government agencies and the public. Awareness and education are essential in reducing wildlife consumption and illegal trade to ensure pangolins continue to survive in Sabah’s forests,” she said.
The programme also included educational sessions conducted by officers from the Sabah Wildlife Department, focusing on wildlife protection laws and ongoing conservation efforts in Sabah.
Hyatt Regency Kinabalu thanked all participating organisations, schools, students and volunteers for their contributions to the programme’s success.
The hotel said it remains committed to supporting conservation, education and community initiatives aimed at preserving Sabah’s natural heritage.
