KOTA KINABALU: Danum Valley Conservation Area is rich in amphibians, with 56 species recorded, and one of them, the Black spotted rock frog (Staurois guttatus), was captured on a smartphone.
The frog was spotted resting on stream rocks before being snapped by the Borneo Rainforest Lodge (BRL) nature guides team led by junior naturalist AK Mohd Shahrin Nizam Haisron.
The effort was rewarded with a first runner-up in the Smartphone Photography Category at the recent 11th International Bornean Frog Race.
The panel of judges commended the excellent composition, natural colour balance, seamless integration with its rainforest backdrop, and the calm demeanour of the subject, as reflected in the frog’s wide-open pupils.
This recognition means a lot to the team for their talent in visual storytelling and deep respect for the wild residents of Danum Valley. It reflects BRL’s ethos of combining education, conservation, and immersive experience to connect people with Borneo’s rich biodiversity.
In addition, Shahrin also represented BRL as a speaker at the Mammals and Herping Workshop to promote Sabah as a rising destination for mammal and herpetofauna watching, similar to birding for birdwatchers.
Shahrin’s involvement demonstrates BRL’s ongoing efforts to contribute to scientific awareness and ecotourism excellence.
Located deep within the Danum Valley Conservation Area, a pristine Class I protected rainforest, BRL offers guests the rare chance to encounter extraordinary wildlife and explore one of the world’s most diverse ecosystems, guided by RSTG licensed guides.
This achievement stands as a testament to BRL’s mission to celebrate, protect, and share the beauty of Sabah’s untamed wilderness with the world.
“We are incredibly proud of Shahrin and the entire Nature Guides Team for this remarkable accomplishment,” said Freddie Coleman, the Chief Executive Officer of Borneo Nature Tours Sdn Bhd and Innoprise Jungle Lodge Sdn Bhd.
“Their passion, field expertise, and creativity are at the heart of our guest experience. This recognition reflects the spirit of BRL and our dedication to nurturing the next generation of nature ambassadors.” – Wu Vuide
