13th International Malaysia Spine Society Scientific Congress 2026

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!

𝐒𝐮𝐧 𝐛𝐞𝐚𝐫𝐬: 𝐬𝐦𝐚𝐥𝐥 𝐛𝐨𝐝𝐢𝐞𝐬, 𝐠𝐢𝐚𝐧𝐭 𝐩𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐥𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐞𝐬, 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐧 𝐛𝐢𝐠𝐠𝐞𝐫 𝐡𝐞𝐚𝐫𝐭𝐬.

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. 🐻🌿

Rest in peace, Soo. We will miss you dearly.

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.

2026-08-15 Visit from Chargé d’Affaires, U.S. Embassy KL

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!

2026-08-14 Visit from New Zealand High Commissioner to Malaysia

We were honoured to welcome H.E. Michael Wehi Mailetonga Walsh, New Zealand High Commissioner, and H.E. Julian Tollestrup, Deputy High Commissioner, to the Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre.

Guided by our Founder and CEO, Dr Wong Siew Te, the visit offered an opportunity to learn more about our efforts in sun bear conservation and rehabilitation, as well as our commitment to protecting the wider ecosystem and the interconnectedness of nature.

Thank you for visiting us. We truly appreciate the opportunity to share our journey and our conservation efforts!