OH! MEDIA - Usaha MPOGCF Di Sabah Buka Mata Tentang Nilai Sebenar Pemuliharaan
Published by: OH! MEDIA
Published on: 30 June 2026
By: M. Hafizal
Usaha MPOGCF di Sabah bukan sahaja memberi tumpuan kepada pemuliharaan hidupan liar.
Bila bercakap tentang pemuliharaan hidupan liar, ramai mungkin terus terbayang kerja menyelamatkan haiwan semata-mata. Namun selepas melihat sendiri beberapa usaha yang dijalankan di Sabah, Ohmedia sedar pemuliharaan sebenarnya jauh lebih besar daripada itu. Ia bukan sahaja tentang gajah, hutan atau beruang madu, tetapi juga tentang manusia yang belajar berkongsi ruang dengan alam.
Antara usaha yang menarik perhatian Ohmedia adalah inisiatif dijalankan Malaysian Palm Oil Green Conservation Foundation (MPOGCF) bersama pihak berkaitan di Sabah.
Di Sabah Softwoods Berhad, Tawau, MPOGCF turut membantu dalam projek pembelian kolar pengesan pergerakan gajah. Kolar ini digunakan bagi memantau laluan dan corak pergerakan gajah Borneo supaya konflik antara manusia dan hidupan liar dapat dikurangkan.
Apa yang membuatkan usaha ini terasa lebih bermakna, pihak Sabah Softwoods Berhad tidak melihat kehadiran gajah sebagai masalah yang perlu dihalau.
Sebaliknya, mereka memilih untuk menyesuaikan operasi ladang dengan laluan hidupan liar. Mereka bekerja sambil mengambil kira kepentingan habitat gajah, bukan hanya memikirkan keuntungan semata-mata.
Sabah Softwood Berhad wujudkan koridor hidupan liar
Usaha menyediakan koridor laluan hidupan liar ini juga sudah menunjukkan kesan yang cukup besar. Sebelum laluan ini diwujudkan, kerosakan tanaman dan konflik melibatkan gajah menyebabkan pihak ladang perlu menanggung kerugian sehingga RM550,000 setahun.
Namun selepas koridor laluan dilaksanakan, jumlah itu difahamkan menurun dengan sangat ketara kepada sekitar RM5,000 setahun. Angka ini jelas membuktikan bahawa apabila manusia memilih untuk memahami pergerakan hidupan liar, penyelesaiannya boleh memberi manfaat kepada kedua-dua pihak.
Ohmedia juga berpeluang melihat sendiri kumpulan gajah yang bergerak bebas di kawasan tersebut. Dari pemerhatian kami, gajah-gajah ini kelihatan sihat, tenang dan selamat bergerak dalam kumpulan mereka.
Momen itu cukup membuka mata. Rupa-rupanya, pemuliharaan bukan semata-mata tentang melindungi haiwan, tetapi mencari jalan terbaik supaya manusia dan hidupan liar boleh hidup bersama.
Pemulihan hutan diiktiraf dunia
Selain koridor hidupan liar, MPOGCF turut terlibat dalam projek pemulihan hutan di Lower Kawag, Hutan Simpan Ulu Segama-Malua, Lahad Datu.
Projek ini dilaksanakan bagi memulihkan kawasan hutan yang pernah terjejas akibat kebakaran besar ketika fenomena El Niño serta aktiviti pembalakan tidak terancang sebelum ini.
Lebih membanggakan, usaha pemulihan hutan ini turut mendapat pengiktirafan antarabangsa melalui pensijilan Preferred by Nature. Pengiktirafan ini membuktikan kerja pemulihan yang dijalankan bukan sekadar memenuhi keperluan tempatan, tetapi turut menepati standard global.
MPOGCF memperuntukkan RM10 juta bagi melaksanakan projek pemulihan hutan di kawasan seluas 2,500 hektar untuk tempoh 10 tahun, bermula 2019 hingga 2029.
Menurut Eksekutif Pemuliharaan dan Kemampanan MPOGCF, Ts Daniel Pamin, pelaburan jangka panjang ini menggambarkan kesungguhan MPOGCF untuk memastikan usaha pemulihan hutan “tidak terhenti di pertengahan jalan”.
Sejak projek ini bermula, lebih 100,000 anak pokok spesies tempatan telah ditanam. Antaranya termasuk Talisai, Binuang, Laran serta spesies kayu keras seperti Seraya dan Kapur.
Setiap pokok yang ditanam mungkin nampak kecil pada hari ini. Tapi dalam jangka panjang, ia boleh menjadi tempat berlindung, sumber makanan dan laluan selamat kepada pelbagai spesies hidupan liar.
Komuniti turut terima manfaat
Apa yang lebih menarik, usaha pemulihan hutan ini bukan sahaja memberi manfaat kepada alam sekitar, tetapi turut membuka peluang kepada komuniti setempat.
Di Kampung Tampenau, penduduk diberi peluang untuk menghasilkan pelbagai jenis anak pokok hutan yang diperlukan bagi projek penanaman semula. Anak pokok ini kemudiannya dibeli sendiri oleh MPOGCF sebelum digunakan dalam usaha pemulihan habitat.
Setakat ini, program nurseri komuniti tersebut difahamkan melibatkan 114 peserta berusia antara 21 hingga 84 tahun.
Lebih membanggakan, pembelian anak pokok daripada komuniti sudah mencatatkan nilai hampir RM1 juta. Jumlah ini sudah pasti memberi pendapatan sampingan yang cukup bermakna kepada penduduk setempat.
Seorang peserta, Sintina Sirap, 84, turut berkongsi bahawa penglibatannya bukan semata-mata kerana wang, sebaliknya kerana minat menanam yang sudah lama sebati dalam dirinya.
Pendekatan ini menunjukkan bahawa pemuliharaan boleh berjalan seiring dengan manfaat ekonomi kepada komuniti. Dalam masa sama, penduduk bukan sekadar menjadi pemerhati, tetapi turut menjadi sebahagian daripada usaha menjaga hutan.
DAILY EXPRESS - Beruang tertua di Pusat Pemuliharaan Beruang Matahari Borneo mati pada usia 33 tahun
Published on: Sun, Jun 28. 2026
By: Winnie Kasmir
https://www.dailyexpress.com.my/news/283816/beruang-tertua-di-pusat-pemuliharaan-beruang-matahari-borneo-mati-pada-usia-33-tahun/
SANDAKAN: Pusat Pemuliharaan Beruang Matahari Borneo (BSBCC) berkabung atas kehilangan penghuni tertuanya, Amaco, yang mati dengan tenang pada 24 Jun lalu pada usia 33 tahun selepas mengalami kemerosotan tahap kesihatan.
Pengasas BSBCC, Dr Wong Siew Te berkata Amaco menunjukkan tanda-tanda kesihatan semakin merosot sejak beberapa minggu kebelakangan ini, termasuk hilang selera makan, lemah dan sukar berdiri. Ujian darah turut menunjukkan fungsi buah pinggangnya semakin merosot selain mengalami anemia.
“Amaco didapati telah mati dengan tenang oleh penjaganya ketika pemeriksaan rutin pada waktu pagi. Bedah siasat kemudian mendapati paru-paru dan hatinya mengalami kongesi teruk, menunjukkan sistem peredarannya telah terjejas dengan ketara. Penemuan itu selaras dengan kemerosotan organ akibat faktor usia dan penyakit jantung kronik,” katanya dalam satu kenyataan.
Kisah hidup Amaco disifatkan sebagai lambang ketabahan. Sebelum ditempatkan di BSBCC, ia menghabiskan 18 tahun hidupnya di dalam sangkar kecil di sebuah ladang. Walaupun kemudiannya diberi ruang berkeliaran di kawasan hutan yang lebih luas di pusat pemuliharaan itu, Amaco lebih gemar berada berhampiran sangkarnya, yang menjadi tempat paling selamat baginya selepas bertahun-tahun hidup dalam kurungan.
Memahami tingkah lakunya, pasukan penjagaan haiwan BSBCC memastikan Amaco menerima penjagaan, pengayaan dan perhatian khusus sambil membolehkannya hidup dengan selesa dalam persekitaran yang dipilihnya sendiri.
Dikenali dengan sifat lembut tetapi berdikari, Amaco menjadi kegemaran dalam kalangan penjaga, sukarelawan dan pengunjung. Walaupun tenang, ia turut dikenali kerana mengeluarkan bunyi salakan tersendiri apabila tidak berpuas hati dengan sesuatu.
Pada usia 33 tahun, Amaco hidup jauh melepasi jangka hayat purata beruang matahari di habitat liar, sekali gus menjadikannya beruang matahari tertua di bawah jagaan BSBCC. Sepanjang berada di pusat itu, Amaco menjadi duta pemuliharaan beruang matahari dan memberi inspirasi kepada ribuan pengunjung serta penyokong hidupan liar.
BSBCC turut merakamkan penghargaan kepada semua individu yang mengambil bahagian dalam program pengangkatan Amaco serta penyokongnya, sambil menyatakan sumbangan mereka membantu menyediakan penjagaan, keselesaan, aktiviti pengayaan dan kebajikan terbaik sepanjang hayatnya.
“Terima kasih, Amaco, atas segala kenangan, pengajaran dan kegembiraan yang telah kau berikan kepada kami. Kamu akan sentiasa mempunyai tempat istimewa di hati kami dan tidak akan dilupakan. Bersemadilah dengan tenang, sahabat lama kami,” kata Wong.
SABAH MEDIA - Amaco, beruang madu tertua BSBCC mati pada usia 33 tahun
https://sabahmedia.com/2026/06/27/amaco-beruang-madu-tertua-bsbcc-mati-pada-usia-33-tahun/
Oleh J Evachel John
SANDAKAN: Amaco, beruang madu tertua di Pusat Pemuliharaan Beruang Madu Borneo (BSBCC), mati pada usia 33 tahun selepas mengalami masalah kesihatan akibat faktor usia dan penyakit jantung kronik.
Pengasas dan Ketua Pegawai Eksekutif BSBCC, Dr Wong Siew Te berkata, Amaco ditemui mati ketika pemeriksaan rutin oleh penjaganya pada pagi Rabu selepas keadaan kesihatannya semakin merosot sejak beberapa minggu lalu.
Menurutnya, Amaco hilang selera makan, semakin lemah dan sukar berdiri, manakala ujian darah menunjukkan fungsi buah pinggangnya semakin merosot selain mengalami anemia.
“Bedah siasat mendapati paru-paru dan hatinya mengalami kesesakan yang teruk, menandakan sistem peredaran darahnya telah terjejas, selaras dengan kemerosotan organ akibat peningkatan usia serta penyakit jantung kronik,” katanya dalam satu kenyataan.
Namun di sebalik usianya yang panjang, Amaco mempunyai kisah hidup yang menyayat hati.
Siew Te berkata sebelum dipindahkan di BSBCC, Amaco diselamatkan dari sebuah ladang selepas dikurung dalam sangkar kecil selama 18 tahun.
Katanya, pengalaman itu meninggalkan kesan mendalam terhadap Amaco apabila ia dilihat lebih gemar berada berhampiran sangkar di BSBCC walaupun diberi akses kepada kawasan hutan semula jadi di pusat pemuliharaan berkenaan.
Sebagai beruang madu tertua di BSBCC, Amaco dikenali sebagai beruang yang lembut, berdikari dan memiliki personaliti tersendiri.
“Pada usia 33 tahun, Amaco hidup jauh melebihi purata jangka hayat beruang madu yang tinggal dalam habitat liar.
“Sepanjang berada di BSBCC, ia menjadi antara penghuni paling disayangi kakitangan, sukarelawan serta pengunjung,” katanya.
Siew Te turut merakamkan penghargaan kepada semua penyokong Amaco yang menyertai program pengambilan haiwan angkat BSBCC.
Menurutnya, sokongan itu membolehkan Amaco menikmati penjagaan serta keselesaan sepanjang berada di fasiliti itu.
NEW STRAITS TIMES - Amaco, oldest sun bear at Borneo conservation centre, died at 33
https://www.nst.com.my/news/regional/2026/06/1473904/amaco-oldest-sun-bear-borneo-conservation-centre-dies-33
SANDAKAN: The oldest sun bear at the Borneo Sun Bear Conservation Centre (BSBCC) here, Amaco, has died at the age of 33.
BSBCC founder and chief executive officer Dr Wong Siew Te said the bear was found dead by its keepers during a routine inspection last Wednesday. Blood test results showed deteriorating kidney function, in addition to anaemia.
He said Amaco's health had declined over the past few weeks, with the bear losing its appetite, becoming weak and having difficulty standing.
"The post-mortem revealed severe congestion in Amaco's lungs and liver, indicating that its circulatory system had been compromised.
"The condition was consistent with age-related organ deterioration and chronic heart disease," he said in a Facebook post yesterday.
Wong said Amaco had been rescued from a plantation after spending 18 years confined in a small cage.
The prolonged captivity left a lasting impact, as the bear preferred to remain close to its enclosure at BSBCC despite having access to the natural forest habitat within the conservation centre.
As the oldest sun bear at the centre, he said Amaco was known for its gentle, independent nature and unique personality.
"At the age of 33, Amaco lived well beyond the average lifespan of sun bears in the wild.
"Throughout its time at BSBCC, it became one of the most beloved residents among staff, volunteers and visitors," he said.
Wong also expressed his appreciation to supporters of BSBCC's animal adoption programme, saying their contributions enabled Amaco to receive quality care and live comfortably throughout its time at the facility.
MALAY MAIL - From plantation cage to conservation icon: Malaysia’s oldest sun bear Amaco dies at 33
By Malay Mail
Saturday, 27 Jun 2026 12:25 PM MYT
SANDAKAN, June 27 — The Borneo Sun Bear Conservation Centre (BSBCC) is mourning the loss of its oldest resident, Amaco, who has died at the age of 33.
BSBCC founder and chief executive officer Dr Wong Siew Te took to sharing the news on Facebook “with a heavy heart” following Amaco’s passing on June 24.
He said Amaco’s health had been declining in recent weeks, with symptoms including poor appetite, weakness and difficulty standing.
He added that blood tests showed worsening kidney function and anaemia prior to his death.
According to Dr Wong, BSBCC keepers found that Amaco had died peacefully on the morning of June 24, during routine checks.
A post-mortem later revealed significant congestion in his lungs and liver, suggesting his circulation had been severely compromised.
The centre said these findings were consistent with age-related organ deterioration and chronic heart disease.
Amaco was 33 years old, making him the oldest sun bear under BSBCC care and well beyond the typical lifespan of wild sun bears.
Dr Wong said Amaco’s life before rescue had been difficult, as he spent 18 years confined in a small cage at a plantation.
Dr Wong said the experience had a lasting effect on Amaco, as he remained attached to his enclosure area even after being given access to forest habitats at BSBCC.
The biologist added that Amaco preferred staying close to familiar spaces where he felt safe, and keepers ensured he received care, enrichment and attention tailored to his comfort.
Describing his personality, Dr Wong said Amaco was “gentle, independent, and never afraid to let you know when he wasn’t impressed, often with a bark.”
Over the years, Amaco became a much-loved figure among staff, volunteers, visitors and supporters of the conservation centre.
BSBCC also thanked supporters of its adoption programme, saying their contributions helped provide Amaco with lifelong care, comfort and wellbeing.
Dr Wong ended its tribute saying, “Thank you, Amaco, for the memories, the lessons, and the joy you brought to us”.
BULETIN TV3 - Amaco, beruang madu tertua di BSBCC, ditemukan mati
Published by: Buletin TV3
Published on: 26 Jun 2026
By: Poliana Ronnie Sidom
SANDAKAN: Seekor beruang madu tertua di Pusat Pemuliharaan Beruang Madu Borneo (BSBCC), di sini, ditemui mati di pusat itu pada Rabu lalu.
Pengasas dan Ketua Pegawai Eksekutif BSBCC, Dr Wong Siew Te berkata, beruang dikenali sebagai Amaco berusia 33 tahun itu didapati tidak bernyawa oleh penjaga di pusat itu ketika melakukan pemeriksaan rutin.
Katanya, keputusan ujian darah kemudian menunjukkan fungsi buah pinggang Amaco semakin merosot, selain mengalami anemia.
Beliau berkata, kesihatan Amaco merosot sejak beberapa minggu lalu serta hilang selera makan, selain lemah dan mengalami kesukaran untuk berdiri.
“Hasil bedah siasat terhadap bangkai Amaco mendapati berlaku kesesakan ketara pada paru-paru dan hati, menandakan sistem peredaran darahnya terjejas.
“Keadaan itu selaras kemerosotan fungsi organ akibat faktor usia serta penyakit jantung kronik,” katanya dalam satu kenyataan, hari ini.
Siew Te memaklumkan sebelum ini, Amaco diselamatkan dari sebuah ladang selepas dikurung dalam sangkar kecil selama 18 tahun.
Katanya, pengalaman itu meninggalkan kesan mendalam terhadap Amaco apabila ia dilihat lebih gemar berada berhampiran sangkar di BSBCC walaupun diberi akses kepada kawasan hutan semula jadi di pusat pemuliharaan berkenaan.
Sebagai beruang madu tertua di pusat itu, beliau berkata, Amaco dikenali dengan sifatnya yang lembut, berdikari dan mempunyai personaliti tersendiri.
“Pada usia 33 tahun, Amaco hidup jauh melebihi purata jangka hayat beruang madu yang tinggal dalam habitat liar.
“Sepanjang berada di BSBCC, ia menjadi antara penghuni paling disayangi kakitangan, sukarelawan serta pengunjung,” katanya.
Siew Te sekali gus merakamkan penghargaan kepada pihak yang menyertai program pengambilan haiwan angkat yang dilaksanakan BSBCC, dan menyifatkan sumbangan terbabit membolehkan Amaco menikmati penjagaan serta keselesaan sepanjang berada di fasiliti itu.
TV SABAH - Sabah loses Amaco, oldest sun bear at BSBCC
Published by: TV SABAH
Published on: 26 June 2026
By: Rodwill
SANDAKAN: 26 June 2026-Sabah has lost Amaco, the oldest sun bear in the care of the Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre (BSBCC), who died on 24 June at the age of 33 due to age-related health complications.
The BSBCC said his health had been deteriorating over recent weeks after he lost his appetite, became weak and experienced difficulty standing.
Blood tests showed his kidney function was declining and that he was also suffering from anaemia. On the morning of 24 June, during a routine check, his keepers found that he had died peacefully, the centre said in a statement.
A post-mortem examination revealed significant congestion in his lungs and liver, indicating that his circulatory system had become seriously impaired.
The findings were consistent with organ failure due to old age and chronic heart disease, the statement added.
Amaco had a challenging start to life, spending his first 18 years in a small cage on a plantation before being rescued and transferred to the BSBCC.
Although he was eventually given access to the forest enclosure, he preferred to remain close to his cage – the place where he felt safest after spending most of his life in captivity.
As the oldest sun bear at the BSBCC, he was known for his gentle, independent nature and distinctive personality. He would often let out a bark when displeased.
At 33, he lived well beyond the average lifespan of wild sun bears and was among the centre’s most beloved residents.
BSBCC founder Wong Siew Te also expressed gratitude to all the supporters who helped provide the best possible care, comfort and welfare for Amaco throughout his life.
“Thank you to all of Amaco’s supporters. Your support enabled us to provide lifelong care, comfort, enrichment activities and the best welfare for him. Because of you, Amaco was able to spend the rest of his life surrounded by people who truly loved him,” he said.
He said Amaco would always be remembered for the memories, lessons and joy he brought during his time at the conservation centre.
“Thank you, Amaco, for all the memories, lessons and joy you brought to us. You will always have a special place in our hearts and will never be forgotten. Rest in peace, our friend,” he added.
Source: Borneon Sun bear conservation centre
Posted in Berita Am, ENGLISH, Wilayah Sabah
https://tvsabahnews.com/sabah-loses-amaco-oldest-sun-bear-at-bsbcc/
TV SABAH - Sabah kehilangan Amaco, beruang matahari tertua di BSBCC
Published by: TV Sabah
Published on: 26 June 2026
By: Rodwill
SANDAKAN: 26 June 2026 – Sabah kehilangan Amaco, beruang matahari tertua dalam jagaan Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre (BSBCC), yang mati pada 24 Jun lalu di usia 33 tahun akibat komplikasi kesihatan berkaitan usia.
BSBCC memaklumkan keadaan kesihatan Amaco semakin merosot sejak beberapa minggu lalu selepas hilang selera makan, lemah dan mengalami kesukaran untuk berdiri.
“Ujian darah menunjukkan fungsi buah pinggangnya semakin merosot selain mengalami anemia. Pada pagi 24 Jun, ketika pemeriksaan rutin dijalankan, penjaganya mendapati Amaco telah mati dengan tenang,” menurut kenyataan BSBCC.
Menurut kenyataan itu, pemeriksaan bedah siasat mendapati berlaku kesesakan yang ketara pada paru-paru dan hati, menunjukkan sistem peredaran darahnya terjejas dengan serius.
“Penemuan ini konsisten dengan kemerosotan organ akibat faktor usia dan penyakit jantung kronik,” menurut kenyataan itu.
Amaco mempunyai kisah hidup yang mencabar ketika menghabiskan 18 tahun pertama hidupnya di dalam sangkar kecil di sebuah ladang sebelum diselamatkan dan dipindahkan ke BSBCC.
Walaupun diberikan akses ke kawasan hutan, Amaco lebih gemar berada berhampiran sangkarnya kerana di situlah dia berasa paling selamat selepas menghabiskan sebahagian besar hidupnya dalam kurungan.
Sebagai beruang matahari paling tua di BSBCC, Amaco dikenali dengan sifatnya yang lembut, berdikari dan mempunyai keperibadian tersendiri. Haiwan itu juga sering mengeluarkan bunyi salakan apabila tidak berpuas hati.
Pada usia 33 tahun, Amaco hidup jauh melebihi jangka hayat purata beruang matahari liar dan menjadi antara penghuni paling disayangi di BSBCC.
Pengasas BSBCC, Wong Siew Te, turut merakamkan penghargaan kepada semua penyokong yang membantu menyediakan penjagaan, keselesaan dan kebajikan terbaik untuk Amaco sepanjang hayatnya.
“Terima kasih kepada semua penyokong Amaco. Sokongan anda membolehkan kami menyediakan penjagaan sepanjang hayat, keselesaan, aktiviti pengayaan dan kebajikan terbaik untuknya. Disebabkan anda, Amaco dapat menghabiskan sisa hidupnya dikelilingi individu yang benar-benar menyayanginya,” katanya.
Beliau berkata, Amaco akan sentiasa dikenang atas kenangan, pengajaran dan kegembiraan yang dibawanya sepanjang berada di pusat konservasi itu.
“Terima kasih, Amaco, atas segala kenangan, pengajaran dan kegembiraan yang kamu bawa kepada kami. Kamu akan sentiasa mempunyai tempat istimewa di hati kami dan tidak akan dilupakan. Berehatlah dengan tenang, sahabat kami,” katanya.
Sumber: Borneon sun bear conservation centre
Posted in Berita Am, Wilayah Sabah
https://tvsabahnews.com/sabah-kehilangan-amaco-beruang-matahari-tertua-di-bsbcc/
HARIAN METRO - Amaco, beruang madu tertua di BSBCC ditemukan mati
Published by: Harian Metro
Published on: 26 Jun 2026
By: Poliana Ronnie Sidom
Sandakan: Beruang madu tertua di Pusat Pemuliharaan Beruang Madu Borneo (BSBCC) di sini, Amaco yang berusia 33 tahun ditemukan mati pada Rabu lalu.
Pengasas dan Ketua Pegawai Eksekutif BSBCC, Dr Wong Siew Te, berkata haiwan itu ditemui oleh penjaga di pusat itu ketika melakukan pemeriksaan rutin dan keputusan ujian darah menunjukkan fungsi buah pinggang yang semakin merosot, selain mengalami anemia.
Katanya, kesihatan Amaco merosot sejak beberapa minggu lalu dan hilang selera makan, selain lemah dan mengalami kesukaran untuk berdiri.
"Hasil bedah siasat terhadap beruang madu itu mendapati berlaku kesesakan yang ketara pada paru-paru dan hati Amaco, menandakan sistem peredaran darahnya terjejas.
"Keadaan itu selaras dengan kemerosotan fungsi organ akibat faktor usia serta penyakit jantung kronik," katanya dalam kenyataannya di sini, hari ini.
Wong berkata, Amaco sebelum ini diselamatkan dari sebuah ladang selepas dikurung selama 18 tahun dalam sangkar kecil.
Menurutnya, keadaan itu meninggalkan kesan mendalam terhadap Amaco apabila dilihat lebih gemar berada berhampiran dengan sangkar di BSBCC biarpun diberi akses kepada kawasan hutan semula jadi di pusat pemuliharaan berkenaan.
Sebagai beruang madu tertua di pusat itu, katanya, Amaco dikenali dengan sifatnya yang lembut, berdikari dan mempunyai personaliti tersendiri.
"Pada usia 33 tahun, Amaco hidup lebih jauh melebihi jangka hayat purata beruang madu yang tinggal dalam habitat liar.
"Sepanjang berada di BSBCC, ia menjadi antara penghuni yang paling disayangi oleh kakitangan, sukarelawan serta pengunjung," katanya.
Wong turut merakamkan penghargaan kepada pihak yang menyertai program pengambilan haiwan angkat dilaksanakan BSBCC dan menyifatkan sumbangan itu membolehkan Amaco menikmati penjagaan dan keselesaan sepanjang berada di fasiliti itu.
BERITA HARIAN ONLINE - Amaco ditemui mati, beruang madu tertua antara paling disayangi di BSBCC
Published by: Berita Harian Online
Published on: 26 Jun 2026
SANDAKAN: Seekor beruang madu tertua di Pusat Pemuliharaan Beruang Madu Borneo (BSBCC), di sini, ditemui mati di pusat itu pada Rabu lalu.
Pengasas dan Ketua Pegawai Eksekutif BSBCC, Dr Wong Siew Te, berkata beruang dikenali sebagai Amaco berusia 33 tahun itu didapati tidak bernyawa oleh penjaga di pusat itu ketika melakukan pemeriksaan rutin.
Katanya, keputusan ujian darah kemudian menunjukkan fungsi buah pinggang Amaco semakin merosot, selain mengalami anemia.
Beliau berkata, kesihatan Amaco merosot sejak beberapa minggu lalu serta hilang selera makan, selain lemah dan mengalami kesukaran untuk berdiri.
"Hasil bedah siasat terhadap bangkai Amaco mendapati berlaku kesesakan ketara pada paru-paru dan hati, menandakan sistem peredaran darahnya terjejas.
"Keadaan itu selaras kemerosotan fungsi organ akibat faktor usia serta penyakit jantung kronik," katanya dalam satu kenyataan, hari ini.
Siew Te memaklumkan sebelum ini, Amaco diselamatkan dari sebuah ladang selepas dikurung dalam sangkar kecil selama 18 tahun.
Katanya, pengalaman itu meninggalkan kesan mendalam terhadap Amaco apabila ia dilihat lebih gemar berada berhampiran sangkar di BSBCC walaupun diberi akses kepada kawasan hutan semula jadi di pusat pemuliharaan berkenaan.
Sebagai beruang madu tertua di pusat itu, beliau berkata, Amaco dikenali dengan sifatnya yang lembut, berdikari dan mempunyai personaliti tersendiri.
"Pada usia 33 tahun, Amaco hidup jauh melebihi purata jangka hayat beruang madu yang tinggal dalam habitat liar.
"Sepanjang berada di BSBCC, ia menjadi antara penghuni paling disayangi kakitangan, sukarelawan serta pengunjung," katanya.
Siew Te sekali gus merakamkan penghargaan kepada pihak yang menyertai program pengambilan haiwan angkat yang dilaksanakan BSBCC, dan menyifatkan sumbangan terbabit membolehkan Amaco menikmati penjagaan serta keselesaan sepanjang berada di fasiliti itu.
SMK Balaban Jaya Open Day (Balaban Jaya Fest) 2026
On 16 June 2026, our team was delighted to participate in the very first Balaban Jaya Fest at Sungai Nangka Hall, Beluran, from 7:30 AM to 1:00 PM.
The event featured many exciting activities, including:
• Bazaria (Food Fair)
• Race & Sports Events
• Jungle Cooking Competition
• Exhibitions & Interactive Activities from Rainforest Discovery Centre (RDC), Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre (BSBCC) and Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre
• Free Health Screening
• Open Karaoke Session
This event has provided our booth an opportunity to share information and raise awareness about the Sun Bear among students, teachers, parents and community members who attended the event.
We are grateful to the organizers for inviting our centre to be part of this event and would like to thank everyone who visited our booth and supported our activities. We hoping to look forward to meeting you again at future events.
Small Bear, Big Message
On 13–14 June 2026, our team, together with BSBCC Japan, successfully participated in a series of events at the Malaysia Tourism Centre (MATiC), Kuala Lumpur, and Kinokuniya Suria KLCC.
The events featured exhibitions, art workshops, and storytelling sessions by the author of Kipaku: The Little Bornean Sun Bear, sharing the inspiring story of Borneo’s smallest bear and the importance of wildlife conservation.
It was a wonderful opportunity to connect with visitors, artists, book lovers, and supporters while raising awareness about sun bear conservation.
Thank you to everyone who attended and supported the events. A special thank you to the organizers for the invitation and for providing such meaningful platforms for learning, creativity, and conservation awareness.
𝐋𝐞𝐚𝐯𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐂𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐋𝐢𝐟𝐞 𝐁𝐞𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐝 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐒𝐮𝐧𝐬𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐞 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐒𝐮𝐧 𝐁𝐞𝐚𝐫𝐬 𝐚𝐭 𝐁𝐒𝐁𝐂𝐂
Text by Chye Tong Qing
Growing up in the concrete jungle of Kuala Lumpur, nature is always felt distant. The only animals I regularly encountered were household pets, farm animals and the occasional wild creatures confined within zoo enclosures. As a child, I was fascinated by National Geographic and spent hours immersed in picture books about wildlife. That early curiosity gradually evolved into a deeper interest in conservation as I came to believe that protecting nature is essential for a civilization to truly thrive.
I first discovered the Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre (BSBCC) through news articles and I was immediately drawn to their volunteer programme. I signed up in hopes of contributing, even in a small way, to sun bear rehabilitation and conservation efforts. As I learned more about sun bears, I became increasingly aware of the harsh realities of poaching and the illegal wildlife trade, despite existing laws. This strengthened my motivation to not only volunteer but also raise awareness within my own community back in Kuala Lumpur.
It is difficult to pinpoint a single most memorable moment during my time at BSBCC, but two experiences stand out. The first was sun bear integration sessions, where bears are gradually introduced to one another. Observing Logan, Panda, and Chin interact displaying curiosity, friendliness, and eventually playful behavior was truly special. One particularly memorable moment was watching Panda mischievously steal carrots from Logan’s enclosure, only to be caught in the act. These interactions revealed the sun bears’ surprisingly social and expressive personalities.
The second was the long fence-check walks, which were physically exhausting but deeply rewarding. Despite the sweat and fatigue, I was often rewarded with glimpses of wildlife in their natural habitat groups of red leaf monkeys leaping through tall trees, vibrant millipedes along the forest floor, and, on one occasion, even a fleeting sighting of an orangutan. Moments like these made every step worthwhile.
Of course, not everything was easy. One of the biggest challenges I faced in Sandakan was the mosquitoes. My roommate jokingly said I must have “fresh young blood,” and despite layering peppermint balm before bed, I still woke up covered in itchy bites. Perhaps I should return when I’m older maybe then I’ll be less appealing to them.
Beyond the challenges, this experience taught me a great deal on multiple levels. On a personal level, I grew more independent, learning to take care of my wellbeing in a semi-rural environment. I also discovered unexpected resilience such as the time I found myself dealing with a tree snake that had wandered into the pantry one night.
On a theoretical level, I gained a deeper understanding of sun bear behavior, including their diet, foraging habits, arboreal adaptations, and behavioral cues that indicate stress or comfort. Their long claws, incredible sense of smell, and cognitive complexity as mammals highlight their emotional capacity, making them especially vulnerable to trauma and negative human interactions.
On a social level, I formed meaningful connections with people from diverse backgrounds—fellow volunteers, bear keepers, and officers. The shared experience of preparing enrichment activities for the bears often came with laughter and lively conversations. I also had the privilege of speaking with Dr. Wong Siew Te, who shared the journey behind his vision for sun bear conservation. Despite the challenges he faced, his belief that everything happens for a reason and his encouragement to discover one’s ikigai left a lasting impression on me. His unwavering dedication to sun bears continues to inspire me in pursuing a future working with animals.
I am deeply grateful for this opportunity, and I hope more people will find ways, big or small to contribute to improving wildlife welfare and conservation efforts.
P.S. A heartfelt shoutout to Sabahan hospitality—it was a joy meeting the locals and I absolutely loved how “bah” naturally finds its way into conversations
Seeing Betung enjoy the simple enrichment I made really made my day—it’s the little moments like this that matter most.
As part of enrichment preparation, I worked on cracking open coconuts for the bears today. Some individuals here are older or have toothless dentition from past conditions, so we modify the enrichment to match their needs. It’s a small task, but it plays a part in ensuring they can still explore and enjoy natural feeding behaviours comfortably.
Spent part of the day making oat balls for all the bears—simple enrichment to keep them engaged and active.
Calista is helping me prepare enrichment for my special bear, Betung.
On my last day of volunteering, I left my fingerprints on the boards, just like every volunteer before me—a small but meaningful way of being part of this place.
Open Day Forestry Institute of Sabah (FORiNS) 2026
Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre (BSBCC) participated in Open Day FORINS 2026, organised by the Foresty Institute of Sabah (FORiNS), bringing together researchers, conservation organisations, students, and members of the public to learn more about Malaysia’s rich biodiversity and conservation efforts.
Throughout the event, visitors had the opportunity to visit the BSBCC exhibition booth, where information on sun bear biology, ecology, conservation challenges, and rehabilitation efforts was shared. The exhibition provided visitors with valuable insights into sun bear conservation through informative displays and direct engagement with conservation personnel.
The event also provided a valuable platform for engagement and knowledge exchange, allowing visitors to interact directly with conservation personnel and gain a deeper understanding of wildlife conservation in Malaysia.
We would like to thank all visitors who stopped by our booth and supported our mission to conserve sun bears and their natural habitat for future generations.
Biodiversity Forum 2026 at The Everly Hotel Putrajaya
Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre is exhibiting at Biodiversity Forum 2026, held on 3–4 June at The Everly Hotel Putrajaya.
Organised by MPOGCF with MPOB as co-organiser, the forum brings together stakeholders from across Malaysia to strengthen collaboration and explore solutions to human-wildlife conflict, particularly within oil palm plantation landscapes.
As a continuation of Biodiversity Forum 2024, themed “The Other Malaysians”, this event continues to champion biodiversity conservation and human-wildlife coexistence. With over 400 participants, 50+ companies, and 30 presenters, it serves as an important platform for learning, sharing, and collaboration.
We are honoured to be part of this gathering, contributing to meaningful discussions on biodiversity conservation, human-wildlife coexistence, and the collective efforts needed to safeguard Malaysia’s rich natural heritage for future generations.
A heartfelt thank you to Selangor St. Andrew Society for adopting Manis
A heartfelt thank you to Selangor St. Andrew Society for adopting Manis the sun bear under our My Bear Adoption Programme!
Your generous support helps us continue providing proper care, enrichment, and a better future for rescued sun bears like Manis. Together, we are making a meaningful difference in wildlife conservation.
Thank you for standing with us in protecting and caring for these amazing bears!
