SITUATED 25 kilometres west of Sandakan, the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre shows off the delicate balance between wildlife conservation and responsible tourism. Established in 1964, it marked the inception of the first official orangutan rehabilitation initiative, focusing on rescued orphaned baby orangutans. Over the years, Sepilok has evolved into a global beacon for orangutan conservation, emerging as one of Sabah's premier tourist attractions.
CONSERVING WILDERNESS, NURTURING HOPE
Sat within the lush Kabili-Sepilok Forest Reserve and spanning 4,294 hectares of pristine rainforest, the centre serves a crucial role in rehabilitating orangutans. The forest reserve provides a natural haven, with more mature orangutans freely roaming its expanse. The journey begins in the 'Nursery,' where young orangutans acquire essential skills for jungle survival — finding food and crafting nests. As they progress, the 'Outdoor Nursery' beckons, gradually granting them increased freedom. Eventually, many achieve complete independence, seamlessly integrating into the wild orangutan population of Sepilok.
AN ENCOUNTER WITH THE WILD
Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre isn't merely a conservation hub but a unique opportunity for tourists and researchers alike. A well-constructed boardwalk leads to a viewing platform, granting visitors an intimate glimpse into the daily lives of orangutans during feeding sessions. The immersive experience extends beyond orangutans, as long-tailed macaques make their presence felt during these sessions. The addition of a new section in 2014 allows visitors to observe the nursery area, where younger orangutans take their first steps outdoors and engage in playful activities. The adjacent Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre further enriches the experience.
CHOOSING YOUR CONSERVATION JOURNEY WITH BORNEO DREAM
For those eager to contribute to orangutan conservation while enjoying an enriching experience, Borneo Dream offers thoughtfully curated tours to Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre. The options range from a half-day trip to the sanctuary to a full-day adventure that includes a visit to the Labuk Bay Proboscis Monkey Sanctuary. Alternatively, for a comprehensive exploration, include Sepilok in a Kinabatangan River tour.
As Sepilok continues to bridge the gap between conservation and tourism, it stands as a model for sustainable wildlife initiatives, inviting all to be part of a collective responsibility towards our orangutan kin.