An Update of Manja The Sun Bear
The once fragile cub who arrived weak, dehydrated, and lethargic is now showing steady and encouraging progress. Her head is no longer lowered, and she is able to move more freely with improved coordination and strength.
Following several diagnostic evaluations, our veterinary team identified that Manja was suffering from hypoglycemia a condition in which blood glucose levels fall below the normal physiological range. Low blood glucose can significantly affect energy levels and neurological function, especially in young cubs. In addition to this, she was experiencing persistent diarrhea upon arrival, which further contributed to dehydration and electrolyte imbalance, making her condition even more fragile.
During this unstable phase, Manja was closely monitored in our clinic and placed inside an incubator to help regulate her body temperature while receiving intensive supportive care. We are relieved to share that she is now off the incubator and able to regulate her body temperature independently. However, given her young age, careful environmental temperature management remains essential. She is currently housed in a designated area where ambient temperature can be better controlled compared to an open-space enclosure, helping to minimize thermal stress. Despite her significant improvement, she continues to receive close monitoring from her caretakers to ensure her recovery remains on track.
Manja has now become noticeably more active and demonstrates good responsiveness during keeper interactions. She eagerly engages in play, and her biting strength is increasing day by day a positive indicator of improving energy and development. She is playful, curious, and especially lively whenever her keepers are nearby.
We are deeply grateful that she has recovered from the critical phase of her condition. While overall stability has improved significantly, we are continuing close monitoring to assess the persistence of her diarrhea and to ensure it does not compromise her recovery.
Up close with little Manja on her fourth day with us. That whitish fur under her mouth? Not a snack stain. It’s just Manja being her unique self!
This is Manja enjoying her milk from the tray learning to drink on her own instead of being bottle-fed. A small step, but a big milestone for our little girl.
Sitting pretty, holding tight. Manja on her second day, small, curious, and full of courage!
After her milk, Manja always finds comfort on her keeper’s lap. She is gradually bonding well with her new surrogate mother, who provides the warmth, security, and reassurance she needs to continue gaining strength and confidence.
Looking back at the days when Manja needed extra warmth and constant care inside the incubator. We’re so grateful for how far she has come.
A small but meaningful turning point While still inside the incubator, Manja began lifting her head on her own, a quiet sign that her strength was slowly returning. It may seem like a simple movement, but for us, it meant hope. It was the moment we knew she was starting to stabilise and fight her way back.
Manja after leaving the incubator, still under supportive care. Although she is able to maintain her body temperature on her own, she is still closely monitored to ensure she continues recovering safely and steadily.
We let Manja enjoy some gentle sunshine. A safe little moment to feel the warmth and stretch her tiny paws outdoors. We hope for her to continue gaining strength and courage, knowing she is deeply cared for. Keep getting stronger, little Manja!
Rescue No.72 - Wira, The Rescued Hero
On 11 February 2026, shortly after receiving our bear cub, Manja, we welcomed another new arrival to BSBCC - a sub-adult sun bear named Wira.
At around six years old, Wira arrived from Lok Kawi Wildlife Park, physically healthy and alert. His journey into captivity began on 3 November 2023, when he was first rescued. Beyond that date, little information is known about his origin or what he experienced before human intervention. Due to limited holding space at the centre, we were only able to accommodate Wira several years after his initial rescue.
As Wira entered his new surroundings, it was clear that everything felt overwhelming. The unfamiliar smells, sounds, and faces left him on edge. He is still uncertain whether he can trust his new keepers. At times, he barks - not out of aggression, but out of fear and uncertainty.
For now, Wira is being given the space he needs to observe and adjust. More importantly, he is given the time to learn that the people around him are here to care, not to harm. Through consistent routines and respectful distance, we hope that, day by day, Wira will begin to feel safe enough to lower his guard.
Wira is open for adoption and by adopting Wira, you play a role in supporting his nutrition, enrichment, veterinary needs and long-term rehabilitation. Your support also helps us continue providing a safe haven for rescued sun bears who have nowhere else to go. Every donation – big or small – helps give bears like Wira a second chance!
Rescue No. 71 – Little “Manja”
On 8th February 2026, a small, fragile life was found. Meet Manja, an estimated three-month-old female sun bear cub weighing 2.2 kg, rescued after being spotted alone in a palm oil plantation near a river. The plantation worker who found her immediately informed the management officer after noticing the cub lying weak, possibly separated from her mother. With no signs of the mother nearby, the management team quickly contacted the Sabah Wildlife Department for assistance. While waiting for help to arrive, the staff provided milk to Manja every two hours to keep her nourished and stable.
The following day, 9th February 2026, Manja was brought to BSBCC for care. She was weak and dehydrated, with a small scratch wound on her hind leg and a bluish, cloudy left eye. Our veterinary team took immediate action to stabilize her fragile condition and provide the urgent care she needed. Manja is now under close supervision by her keepers, who are supporting her around the clock. She is drinking her milk well and is slightly more active compared to when she first arrived. She is still slightly dull but responsive, occasionally standing with her head tilted down. Our dedicated team will continue focusing on her recovery and nurturing her back to full health.
We named this cub “Manja”, after the female sun bear mascot of Visit Malaysia 2026. Just like her name, she embodies warmth, gentleness, and care. Her journey has just begun, and every tiny step forward is a celebration of hope, resilience, and the promise of a brighter future.
SK Tampat, Sugut and SK Buis, Telupid Outreach
On the 10th and 11th of February of 2026, BSBCC was invited by Kuala Lumpur Kepong Sawit Nusantara (KLKSN) to an outreach programme, involving 2 schools in Beluran and Telupid district, respectively. The first school, SK Tampat, Sugut, was located close to the Sugut river while the second school, SK Buis, is a comprehensive 9 school located in Buis area in Telupid. The idea of the outreach is to reach and engage more students aging from 6 till 15 years old in these two schools, fostering proper impression and instilling love to our wildlife. Tagging along our team is the NGO Orang Juga and the Sabah Wildlife Department.
Till next time KLKSN!
Ministry of Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability (NRES) and Sabah Forestry Department (SFD) Visit
We were delighted to welcome representatives from Ministry of Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability (NRES) and Sabah Forestry Department (SFD). Our CEO and Founder, Dr. Wong Siew Te, led a guided tour, sharing insights into sun bear conservation, our ongoing work, and the importance of protecting forest habitats.
Thank you for your visit and continued support for wildlife conservation.
Wildlife Conservation Education Camp 2026
BSBCC successfully organised our first Wildlife Conservation Education Camp in collaboration with Sandakan Vocational College 2 (KVS2). A total of 27 Diploma in Tourism students and 7 lecturers, including Mdm. Christine Stanislaus Kinsik, Director of KVS2, participated in this meaningful learning experience.
Throughout the programme, participants gained valuable exposure to the work of governmental and non-governmental organisations (NGOs) in protecting wildlife species and their rainforest habitats. The programme also introduced students to eco-tourism activities in the Sepilok area, highlighting how sustainable tourism plays a vital role in supporting conservation initiatives.
Special thanks to the Australian High Commissioner Malaysia for generously sponsoring this programme. We also extend our heartfelt appreciation to our conservation partners—Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre, Orangutan Appeal UK, Rainforest Discovery Centre, and Sandakan Borneo Bird Club—for their support and collaboration in making this programme a success.
Zuba X Visit Malaysia 2026 “Snap & Win” Campaign
Sabah’s leading hotel, homestay booking and lifestyle platform, Zuba, has officially launched its Zuba x Visit Malaysia 2026 “Snap & Win” Campaign, offering prizes worth up to RM30,000 to encourage creative social media engagement while promoting local merchants and domestic tourism.
The campaign was launched at Banyan Valley Sales Gallery and attended by Dr. Wong Siew Te, CEO of the Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre (BSBCC); Anson Ng, Managing Director of Ayuhouz and Zuba; Charlie Tang, Director of Ayuhouz and Aton Group; Tang Kiah Khang @ Jin Director of Aton Group; Charis Lee, Director of CSX; Melissa Chong, Chief Marketing Officer of Zuba; and Kelly Eleanor Tseu, Miss World Malaysia 2024 First Runner-Up and Ambassador of Ayuhouz. Participants are required to visit participating merchants featuring the Zuba x Visit Malaysia 2026 Sun Bear mascot, capture photos or videos with the mascot, and share them on public Instagram, Facebook, or TikTok accounts. Each Sun Bear outfit is uniquely designed to reflect the individual merchant’s brand identity, spanning sectors such as hotels, food and beverage, wellness, tour and travel, retail and lifestyle. Thank you Ayuhouz!
