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.
