My New Project in 2026: Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Project

I didn't realise it had been a year since my last blog post. In this post, I want to share the project I'm working on now. Two projects were delayed for years, and I had to take them because I had no choice but to say yes. So I will not talk about those two projects, because they feel like a pain in my ass too. I will only talk about one project I love, and I am grateful I had the opportunity to work on it. 

The Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Project

This year, I have the opportunity to work on the sun bear project. The sun bear (Helarctos malayanus) is the world's smallest bear species. Look at the photo below to see how the sun bear differs from other bear species in height. In contrast, the polar bear is the tallest among the eight species.

Photo Credit: Wildlife Nomads

Meanwhile, the map below shows the species' distribution across continents. The light green shows the sun bear's geographic range, which includes Bangladesh, Brunei Darussalam, Cambodia, India, Indonesia, Lao People's Democratic Republic, Malaysia, Myanmar, Thailand, and Vietnam. 

Photo Credit: Bear Species in Asia

Under the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species (2016), the sun bear was categorised as Vulnerable. The last assessment was conducted on 5 February 2016. After 10 years, we are unsure of the sun bear's current status across its range. Over the last ten years, I am sure the sun bear's habitat has changed significantly due to development in each country. Other threats include poaching and illegal trade.

Photo Credit: Wildlife Nomads

This year, the project aims to close some gaps, including the distribution map of sun bears in the state and population estimates. It involves desktop studies and field sampling to collect occurrence data in our national parks and adjacent community forests. Knowing I will not be able to do this work alone, I have been networking and seeking active collaborations. I registered and became a member of the IUCN SSC Bear Specialist Group in April and the International Bear Association (IBA) in May this year. Through these collaborations, I hope to achieve more and secure the support I need to strengthen bear conservation initiatives in Sarawak. 

More updates coming soon!