13 July 2025: RUTLAND, UNITED KINGDOM: Sabah has returned to the Global Bird Fair 2025, marking a significant milestone as the Sabah Bird Watchers Association (SBWA) formalises a strategic partnership with the World Pheasant Association through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU).
The MoU, signed following SBWA’s inaugural participation at last year’s fair, is anticipated to pave the way for meaningful opportunities in scientific collaboration, bird conservation programmes, and the hosting of international birding events in Sabah.
The Sabah delegation at this year’s event, held from 11th to 13th
July at Lyndon Top Caravan Park in Rutland, is led by Deputy Chairman of the
Sabah Tourism Board (STB), Datuk Tan Kok Liang, accompanied by STB officers and
a dynamic team of nature tourism and birding advocates.
Representing Sabah under the STB banner are prominent industry players including Tabin Wildlife Resort, Borneo Trails, Borneo Rainforest Lodge, Borneo Eco Tours, and 1 Stop Borneo.
They are joined by representatives from SBWA and the Penampang Tourism Association, further strengthening efforts to promote Sabah as a premier birdwatching destination in Southeast Asia.
Tan remarked that the signing of the MoU demonstrates how active participation in international platforms such as the Global Bird Fair can lead to meaningful outcomes for Sabah, particularly in the field of birding tourism.
“This strategic partnership reflects Sabah’s firm commitment to biodiversity conservation while reinforcing our position as a hub for nature-based tourism.
“We are proud to support SBWA’s expanding role on the global stage and look forward to continued collaboration with the World Pheasant Association, which promises long-term benefits for our environment and rural communities,” he said.
Gratitude was also expressed to renowned naturalist Quentin Phillipps for facilitating the introduction between SBWA and the WPA, as well as to WPA Vice President John Corder, who visited Sabah earlier this year as part of ongoing engagement efforts.
The Global Bird Fair brings together thousands of birdwatchers, nature enthusiasts, and tourism professionals from across the world. Last year, the event attracted an estimated 10,000 visitors over its three-day duration.
The UK alone is home to approximately six million registered birdwatchers, offering Sabah a significant niche market.
Royal Brunei Airlines joins STB at Stand S38 in the Swallow Marquee, representing a strategic partnership aimed at enhancing flight connectivity for birdwatchers from the UK and beyond.
This collaboration seeks to facilitate easier access to Sabah’s lush rainforests and bird-rich habitats.
STB Chief Executive Officer Julinus Jeffrey Jimit said that birdwatching is one of Sabah’s hidden gems, and participation in the Global Bird Fair marks a step towards unlocking its full potential on the international stage.
“With over 680 bird species and an exceptionally high level of endemism, Sabah offers birders a rare and truly unique experience. This is more than just birdwatching, it is a full immersion into one of the world’s richest biodiversity hotspots.
“Our partnership with Royal Brunei Airlines is a strategic move to open Sabah’s skies to birders from the UK, Europe, and other international markets. We are making it easier than ever for eco-travellers to explore Sabah’s majestic landscapes, indigenous cultures, and extraordinary avian wonders. Naturally Inspiring, Beyond Ordinary, where nature meets adventure.
“Sabah is ready. Our partners are passionate, our communities are engaged, and our birds are waiting,” Julinus added.
Sabah’s presence at the Global Bird Fair 2025 reflects its ongoing
commitment to developing niche tourism sectors, promoting sustainable travel,
and positioning itself as a must-visit birding destination in the heart of
Borneo.
-Nabalu News.