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Travel advice for Malaysia
From travel safety to visa requirements, discover the best tips for traveling to Malaysia
Book your individual trip, stress-free with local travel experts
written by Rough Guides Editors
updated 9.07.2019
On a visit to see orangutans Anna Kaminski is confronted with bears instead. With the world’s only sun bear sanctuary opening to the public next year, she joins an exclusive tour of the centre and meets some of the adorable creatures who have been rescued by the Borneo Sun Bear Conservation Centre.
Polar bears are renowned for their size and hunting prowess, grizzlies occasionally make the news for attacking hikers in the North American wilderness, and the panda has long cornered the market on ursine cuteness, yet mention the sun bear – which could easily rival the panda in the adorableness stakes – and you get blank stares, as so little is known about the smallest of the world’s eight bear species.
I’m visiting the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre in Sabah, Borneo, when a friend of mine introduces me to Siew Te Wong, a Malaysian wildlife biologist who founded the Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre in 2008, and is busy supervising the construction of the outdoor bear enclosures at the site next door to Sepilok. Wong agrees to take me on an impromptu tour, so we don rubber boots and go on a muddy tramp around the site’s perimeter.
Wong explains why sun bears have the name they do ("they each have a distinctive white mark on their chest that looks like the sun”) and reveals the inspiration behind the project.
“I’ve been studying these remarkable creatures for over 13 years now and have seen them held captive in dreadful conditions: tiny cages and decrepit zoos. Something had to be done. You find sun bears throughout Asia, but Borneo is their last stronghold, and even here they face numerous threats.”
Deforestation, illegal logging inside protected areas and conversion of rainforest to palm oil plantation practices mean the sun bears' habitat keeps on shrinking and their numbers have been steadily declining over the last few decades.
“Even though they’re classified as ‘Totally Protected Species’ in Sabah, farmers see them as pests and kill them to prevent them from getting at the crops” Wong tells me.
“They’re also hunted for their gall bladders which are still – unfortunately – widely used in traditional Chinese medicine.”
Sun bears are also particularly cute when little, so poachers kill their mothers and sell the babies as pets, which then spend their lives in tiny cages, being fed an inadequate diet. With 28 bears currently in its care, I ask Wong about the goals of the BSBCC.
“We’re trying to do several things at once: raise awareness and educate people about sun bears, provide a good long-term home for those bears whom we won’t be able to release back into the wild, and a short-term home for those that can be rehabilitated.”
We suddenly notice another bear high up a tree, climbing with the grace of a big cat. Another bear is visible through the thick undergrowth, sharpening her long, capable-looking claws on a tree stump.
“They’re remarkable climbers. And this is what I’d like people to see – these wonderful creatures in their own environment.” Wong goes on to explain that once the sanctuary is completed, the visitors will be able to walk around the large outdoor enclosure and observe the bears’ interaction from several viewing platforms above. The outdoor enclosure comprises a slice of jungle, linked to the bears’ individual indoor living spaces. They are free to wander outside whenever they like and some do, whereas a few are still too traumatised to face the great outdoors.
I’m interested in the individual bears and their stories so Wong leads me inside to show me some of the residents.
“This is two-year-old Mary; she was orphaned when her mother was killed and when she was rescued, she was someone’s pet. She’s recovering though, and plays well with the other little one, Debbie. That old male is Amaco. At the moment he’s showing no interest in venturing outside.”
My visit is winding to a close. Inside their house it’s almost dinnertime, and the bears know it. A couple are languidly swinging on their tyres, while others are getting restless. Volunteers are putting food in hollow balls and other receptacles, which simulate the bears’ natural environment where they’d have to patiently extract insects from inside trees and honey from beehives.
The food containers are pushed through the slots of the indoor enclosures with almost military precision and the bears pounce on the food. Even after their troubled and traumatic pasts, contentment still reigns after a good meal.
12 days / from2350 USD
Uniquely Rustic Malaysia
Malaysia has it all: great beaches, fascinating history, natural habitats and remarkable wildlife. Bustling KL offers the perfect city break; while further afield hiking trails, pristine jungles and fascinating ecosystems will keep the more adventurous visitors entertained.
view tour ⤍7 days / from1200 USD
Hidden UNESCO Sites of Malaysia
Steeped in historical significance and natural beauty, Malaysia is home to several emotionally moving UNESCO World Heritage Sites. It seems fitting, given the country's cultural touchstones and awe-inspiring parks—from solitude amidst the mangroves to history walks among colonial buildings.
view tour ⤍3 days / from450 USD
The Cameron Highlands in a Nutshell
Experience Malaysia's largest and most impressive hill station, the Cameron Highlands, in all their glory, with this compact trip. Let your picturesque surroundings soak in as you visit the famous Batu Caves, the Lata Iskandar Waterfalls and a local tea plantation.
view tour ⤍3 days / from593 USD
Malaysian Wildlife Explorer
Experience the stunning and varied wildlife of Malaysia with this exciting trip: meet the world's smallest bear, the Bornean sun bear; encounter injured orangutans preparing to rejoin the wild; then embark on a series of cruises on the Kinabatangan River to spot yet more Malaysian wildlife!
view tour ⤍13 days / from2450 USD
Traditional Malaysia & Wild Borneo
Combine the culture and traditions of Malaysia with jungle outposts and adventure in Borneo. From lively Kuala Lumpur to desert island beaches, highlands and dense rainforest, this is a wonderful introduction to Southeast Asia.
view tour ⤍4 days / from882 USD
Highlands and Islands of West Malaysia
Experience the rolling highlands and stunning islands of West Malaysia, with this exciting, compact trip that would make the perfect add-on to an existing trip to Malaysia.
view tour ⤍7 days / from980 USD
Dazzling Kuching: Malaysia's Hidden Gem
Sarawak's capital city is known for its old-world flare, bustling markets, and delightful locals. The eponymous winding river that makes up the celebrated Kuching Waterfront may be the town's claim to fame, but hiding just behind it are historical buildings begging to be discovered.
view tour ⤍15 days / from2235 USD
Malaysia Explored: Culture, Wildlife and History
Discover the magnificence of Malaysia with this comprehensive trip. Stroll around picturesque tea plantations, trek through dense rainforests, watch elephants in the wild, laze around on paradise beaches, explore immense religious monuments and much more, all with this fantastic trip!
view tour ⤍7 days / from896 USD
Experience Nature in the Wilds of Sabah
Tucked away on the island of Borneo is the state of Sabah, a true nature-lover's paradise. From whitewater rafting down wild rivers to scuba diving in crystal-clear waters among exotic marine life, Sabah has something for anyone looking to experience nature in its purest form.
view tour ⤍10 days / from1730 USD
Taking in the Splendour of Malaysia
Malaysia is a vast, sweeping jewel of Southeast Asia, with much to do and see. It's particularly known for its serene rainforests, captivating wildlife, and pristine coastlines. The country is also synonymous with bustling cities, cherished historical sites, and progressive points of view.
view tour ⤍14 days / from5876 USD
Malaysia, Brunei and Singapore adventure
A diverse and unforgettable exploration awaits! From the vibrant city of Kuala Lumpur to the cool retreat of Cameron Highlands. Immerse yourself in lush tea plantations before heading to Borneo for thrilling orangutan encounters and unforgettable river safaris. Brunei and Singapore conclude the trip
view tour ⤍13 days / from5920 USD
Indulgent Malaysia
Discover fascinating Malaysia, a multicultural hotspot with amazing food, stunning beaches and vibrant culture. Take in popular KL’s malls, architecture, landmarks and gardens, before hitting colonial towns and luxurious tropical beaches.
view tour ⤍7 days / from1750 USD
Malaysia Express from Singapore
A captivating 7-day tour that unveils the beauty of Malaysia, commencing from Singapore. Traverse the border into Malacca to uncover its rich heritage gems. Progress to Kuala Lumpur, where iconic landmarks await your exploration. Culminate your journey in George Town, Penang.
view tour ⤍5 days / from2580 USD
Rainforest Adventure in Borneo
Indecisive between Tabin and Danum Valley in Borneo? Opt for a unique two-in-one adventure, where you'll revel in a mesmerizing transformation from regenerating forests to pristine virgin rainforests. Embrace the allure of both destinations in a single, unforgettable journey.
view tour ⤍11 days / from1899 USD
Best of Peninsular Malaysia
A beautiful journey through Peninsular Malaysia. Start in dynamic Kuala Lumpur, explore Malacca's heritage, delve into Cameron Highlands' tea culture, discover Penang's vibrant art scene, and savor its renowned street food. Cap off your adventure with serene beach relaxation in Langkawi.
view tour ⤍6 days / from1685 USD
Wildlife Spotting in Borneo
Observe the human-like Orangutans and Bornean Sun Bear, enjoy relaxing cruises along the Kinabatangan River, and encounter fascinating species like proboscis monkeys, hornbills, crocodiles, and more. For those with an interest, partake in engaging wildlife discussions at the lodge.
view tour ⤍The Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre should be open to the public in early 2014, allowing you to see two of Borneo’s most fascinating mammals – the sun bear and the orangutan – in a single visit to Sepilok.
written by Rough Guides Editors
updated 9.07.2019
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From travel safety to visa requirements, discover the best tips for traveling to Malaysia