SANDAKAN: The Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre (BSBCC) here welcomed its 73rd rescued sun bear, a young male named Lumaku, on April 9. Estimated to be one year old, he weighed around 15 kg.
Lumaku’s journey began long before his rescue. Following a public complaint, authorities inspected a theme park on the northern coast of Sabah and discovered him being kept illegally in an enclosure for exhibition.
He was subsequently rescued by the Sabah Wildlife Department and safely transferred to the Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre on April 8.
This rescue highlights the importance of public education in raising awareness about sun bears. Even when keeping them is claimed to be for their “benefit,” it is both illegal and harmful to keep sun bears as pets. Learning and sharing the facts helps prevent future cases and protects these incredible animals in the wild.
Lumaku had been kept at the theme park since he was a cub. He was purchased from villagers for approximately RM1,000 and raised under human care. During that time, he was fed fried and boiled chicken—a diet far removed from what a sun bear would naturally eat.
Upon arrival, Lumaku was observed to be very active and physically healthy. He proved alert, responsive, and friendly. His curiosity about his surroundings and careful observation of people reflected the environment in which he had been raised.
Although he appeared well, Lumaku will require time, guidance, and careful rehabilitation to relearn natural bear behaviour such as climbing, foraging, and exploring—skills he never had the chance to practice while being confined to a limited space. Each small step will be crucial for his development and overall well-being.
Now, as Rescue No. 73, Lumaku begins a new chapter—one in which he will slowly learn, adapt, and rediscover what it truly means to be a bear again. – James Leong
Rescue number 73, Lumaku.
