We were visited today by a group of kindergarten students from Tadika KEMAS Taman Gum-Gum. The group was initially briefed on safety precautions, and they were ‘tasked’ to identify wildlife observed around. A few bears showed up, and the kids became overjoyed, especially when one of them, Romolina, climbed up a nearby tree. The visit wrapped up with a session of group photos with the kids. Indeed, it was really nice to meet up with them. Thank you for the visit, and see you again!
We were honoured to represent the Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre (BSBCC) at the 13th International Malaysia Spine Society Scientific Congress 2026!
It was a great opportunity to connect with healthcare professionals and
organisations, share our conservation work, and raise awareness about sun bears
and the importance of protecting our forests.
Thank you to the Malaysia Spine Society for having us, and to everyone
who stopped by our booth!
Text by Calista Myra Mathew (UNIMAS Intern)
One of the bears who left a lasting impression on me was
Logan. He’s curious, adventurous, and has a personality all his own. After a
difficult start in life, Logan found a new home at BSBCC, where he continues to
explore his surroundings and do things in his own way. Life hasn’t always been
easy for him, but he never stops trying.
I joined this volunteer programme because I’ve always loved
wildlife and wanted to do more than just learn about conservation in class. I
wanted to experience it firsthand, get my hands dirty, and play a part in
caring for the sun bears.
One of my favorite moments was seeing the bears enjoy the
enrichment I made. Watching them play, explore, and interact with something I
had worked on was incredibly rewarding.
Of course, there were challenges, especially getting used to
the physical work and daily routine. But I learned to stay positive, ask for
help when I needed it, and work together with the team. Eventually, it all
became part of the adventure.
Throughout the programme, I learned so much about sun bears
— their behavior, individual personalities, and the challenges they face in the
wild. It made me realise how much effort goes into conservation and giving
these bears a second chance.
This experience has changed me in many good ways. I feel
more confident, responsible, and even more passionate about protecting
wildlife. I’m leaving BSBCC with great memories, new friends, and an even
stronger love for sun bears. 🐻🌿
Soo arrived at the BSBCC on the 8th September 2017 after being rescued from captivity. She had been sold for just RM350 at the Sook market in Karamatoi village when she was only a cub. For two years, she was kept as a house pet in Nambayan village, Tambunan. Soo was one of the lucky ones. She was rescued and given a second chance, but like many of the bears in our care, she was deprived of what every young sun bear deserves - the opportunity to grow up alongside her mother.
The effects of her early life in captivity were evident in
her behavior. Even the slightest stress, such as a loud noise, could trigger
anxious pacing. Progress was slow, but over time, Soo began to adapt. To
support her rehabilitation, she was gradually introduced to three other young
bears: Sika, Kina, and BJ. Although she remained wary of her keepers, the
companionship of other bears helped her become more relaxed and confident. The
once-anxious bear slowly transformed into one who eagerly explored the forest
enclosures and enjoyed spending time with Kina, her companion.
Sadly, Soo's story came to an unexpected end. One evening,
she did not return to her cage from the forest enclosure. While this was not
unusual for her, as she occasionally chose to spend the night outside, her
keepers became concerned when they were unable to locate her. The following
morning, during a routine fence inspection, they discovered her body.
A post-mortem examination revealed blunt trauma to the
cervical and thoracic regions. Based on these findings, it is believed that Soo
may have suffered a fall that resulted in her passing. Although her time with
us was cut short, we take comfort in knowing that she spent her final years
surrounded by the forest, with the freedom to climb, explore, and experience
life as a sun bear once again.
We would also like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to our
supporters, donors, volunteers, and everyone who has stood by us throughout our
journey. Your continued support allows us to provide rescued sun bears like Soo
with a second chance at life and the opportunity to experience the forest once
more.
Thank you for loving Soo and for being part of her story.
Rest in peace, Soo. We will miss you dearly.
We were honoured to welcome Mr. David H. Gamble, Jr., Chargé d’Affaires, U.S. Embassy Kuala Lumpur, to the Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre today.
Guided by our Founder and CEO, Dr Wong
Siew Te, the visit provided an opportunity to learn more about our work
in sun bear conservation, rehabilitation and education, as well as the
importance of protecting the wider ecosystem and the rich biodiversity of
Borneo.
Thank you for visiting us, Mr. Gamble, we hope to welcome
you back again in the future!
.jpeg)
.jpeg)
.jpeg)
