SANDAKAN: The 16th Borneo Bird Festival (BBF) brought nature enthusiasts together at the Rainforest Discovery Centre (RDC), Sepilok, on Nov 7 and 8, celebrating Borneo’s rich birdlife and raising awareness of biodiversity conservation.
The two-day festival attracted thousands of birdwatchers, photographers, students, families and nature lovers from Malaysia and overseas. Recognised as one of Malaysia’s largest nature festivals, BBF continues to promote bird watching, nature-based tourism, environmental education and wildlife conservation, while strengthening Sabah’s reputation as a leading bird watching destination.
A major highlight was the Bird Race, which attracted a record 45 teams, the highest participation since the event began in 2009. Participants came from the Philippines, China, Taiwan, Singapore, Vietnam, New Zealand and Malaysia, bringing together birdwatchers from different countries to discover and document Borneo’s diverse birdlife.
Other activities included exhibitions, educational talks, bird photography walks, a Bird Run and interactive programmes for families and children. The Borneo Bird Run also drew some 300 participants, who covered a 12-kilometre route around Sepilok. Regional bird photographers and authors shared their knowledge and experiences, highlighting how photography and storytelling can inspire greater appreciation for nature and conservation.
Beyond celebrating birds, the festival emphasised the importance of protecting forests and natural habitats. Birds play essential roles in maintaining healthy ecosystems, including seed dispersal, pollination and insect control. Their diversity also serves as an indicator of forest health, making bird conservation an important part of sustainable forest management.
The festival also highlighted the economic benefits of bird watching and nature-based tourism. These activities create opportunities for local guides, homestay operators, transport providers, food businesses and other tourism-related services, showing how forest conservation can support local livelihoods and community development.
The 16th Borneo Bird Festival was jointly organised by the Sandakan Borneo Bird Club (BoBC) and the Sabah Forestry Department, with support from the Sabah Tourism Board under the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Environment (KePKAS).
The organisers thanked all sponsors, partners, volunteers, exhibitors and participants for their contributions to the festival’s success.
As the festival concludes another successful edition, its message remains clear: protecting birds means protecting their forest habitats, preserving Sabah’s natural heritage and supporting sustainable livelihoods for future generations. – James Leong
Participants and officials at the Borneo Bird Festival held over the weekend.
