Industrial training is an important experience for every
student in preparing themselves before entering the real working environment.
I, Calvin Dexter Hasnie, a Diploma in Tourism Management student from
Politeknik Tawau Sabah, had the opportunity to undergo my industrial training
at Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre (BSBCC), Sepilok, Sandakan for several
months. This experience gave me the opportunity not only to learn about the
tourism industry, but also to understand the importance of wildlife conservation,
especially for sun bears.
BSBCC is a conservation centre that focuses on the rescue,
rehabilitation, education, and conservation of sun bears in Borneo. As an
industrial trainee, I had the chance to witness the efforts made to protect
this species from extinction. Throughout my internship, I realized that every
rescued sun bear carries a painful story from its past life. Some were rescued
from illegal wildlife trade, while others lost their natural habitat due to
deforestation and human activities.
Starting My Journey at BSBCC
My first day at BSBCC was a truly meaningful experience. The peaceful forest
environment in Sepilok and the beauty of nature created a completely different
atmosphere compared to campus life. I was excited and nervous at the same time
because it was my first opportunity to see sun bears up close.
During my time at BSBCC, I was exposed to various daily tasks such as assisting
at the gallery area, observation platform, outreach programs, and conservation
education activities for visitors. I also had the opportunity to work together
with staff from different units who were highly committed to ensuring the
welfare and safety of the sun bears.
As the days went by, I slowly understood that conservation work is not always
easy. Behind every rescued bear, there is sadness, suffering, and trauma caused
by humans. Seeing these animals trying to survive and slowly recover made me
feel emotional and more appreciative of wildlife conservation efforts.
Experience with the Sun Bears
One of the most meaningful experiences during my industrial training was being
involved in the care and treatment process of a sun bear at the conservation
centre. Through this experience, I learned that every sun bear has a different
background, personality, and health condition.
I had the chance to observe how the BSBCC staff monitored the condition of the
sun bears, prepared enrichment activities, and ensured that the animals
remained healthy and comfortable. I also learned how important enrichment is in
helping the bears maintain their natural behaviors and reduce stress while
living under rehabilitation care.
There were moments when I felt sad seeing some bears that were still afraid of
humans due to their traumatic past experiences. It made me realize how cruel
illegal wildlife activities can be and how difficult it is for these animals to
trust again. This experience truly opened my eyes to the importance of wildlife
conservation and the challenges faced by conservation centres in protecting
endangered species.
Outreach Programs and Conservation Education
Besides being involved in the care of sun bears, I also actively participated
in outreach and conservation education programs organized by BSBCC. Educational
exhibitions and awareness programs gave me the opportunity to interact with the
public and share information about the importance of protecting sun bears and
their habitats.
Through these programs, I learned how to communicate with visitors from
different backgrounds. I also assisted in explaining the lives of sun bears,
the threats they face, and the conservation efforts carried out by BSBCC.
One of the most memorable moments for me was during educational exhibitions at
schools and public events. Seeing children and visitors becoming interested in
wildlife conservation after listening to our explanations made me feel proud
and happy. At the same time, it made me realize that awareness is the first
step toward protecting nature.
Overall Opinion and Conclusion
Overall, my industrial training experience at the Bornean Sun Bear Conservation
Centre (BSBCC) was one of the most valuable and unforgettable experiences in my
life. I not only gained working experience in tourism and conservation, but I
also learned the true meaning of responsibility, compassion, and respect toward
wildlife and nature.
This experience taught me that environmental conservation is not only the
responsibility of certain organizations, but it requires awareness and
cooperation from everyone. I hope that more people will continue supporting
conservation efforts so that sun bears and their habitats can be protected for
future generations.
Some experiences may end, but the memories, lessons, and emotions I gained at
BSBCC will always remain in my heart.
“Conservation begins with awareness.”
