Celebrating Tawau Hills Park: Conservation, Community & Biodiversity

22 November 2025 | Tawau Hills Park, Sabah

Group Photo During the Celebration of Tawau Hills Park Event.

Tawau Hills Park (THP) came alive on 22nd November 2025 as conservationists, researchers, educators, industry partners, and local communities gathered to celebrate the park’s rich biodiversity and ongoing conservation efforts.

Established in 1979, Tawau Hills Park protects an important expanse of lowland and hill rainforest in eastern Sabah. Beyond its stunning landscapes, the park provides essential ecosystem services such as clean water supply and climate regulation, while supporting a remarkable diversity of wildlife including hornbills, primates, frogs, butterflies, and canopy-dwelling fig-specialist species.

Strengthening Partnerships for Conservation

Opening Presentation by Mr Shavez Cheema, Founder of 1StopBorneo Wildlife.

Since 2016, 1StopBorneo Wildlife (1SBW) has collaborated closely with Sabah Parks on conservation, research, education, and ecotourism initiatives in Tawau Hills Park. This year’s celebration brought together around 60 participants from government agencies, conservation organisations, academic institutions, private companies, and schools, reflecting strong multi-sector collaboration.

The event was organised by YBrs. Tuan Farullah Rizally Abd. Razak, Senior Principal Assistant Director of Sabah Parks, together with Kong Vui Li and Shavez Cheema from 1StopBorneo Wildlife. The Guest of Honour was Puan Rimi Repin, Deputy Director of Sabah Parks. The programme was proudly supported by Tourism Malaysia.

Highlights of the Celebration

The ceremony opened with a showcase of Canopy Videos & Figs in Tawau Hills Park, followed by the screening of the Visit Malaysia 2026 promotional video.

A major highlight was the official launch of the Hornbills of Borneo book, featuring nearly 50 fascinating facts about all eight Bornean hornbill species. The book explores their diets, behaviour, ecological roles, and unique traits, complemented by striking photography.

Launching of the Hornbills of Borneo book by Guest of Honour, Puan Rimi Repin, Deputy Director of Sabah Parks.

Adding cultural flair to the celebration was a musical performance by Captain Scratchman John, creating a lively and engaging atmosphere.

Sharing Knowledge & Inspiring Action

Throughout the day, Sabah Parks and 1StopBorneo Wildlife delivered a series of informative presentations covering topics such as hornbills, geodiversity, wildlife research, herpetofauna, insects, reforestation, education programmes, and the use of DSLR and thermal imaging technology. A special Wildlife & Tourism Video Showcase highlighted Tawau Hills Park’s biodiversity, ecotourism activities, and conservation work.

Mr Aeril Amputong, of Sabah Parks presenting on the Hornbills of Tawau Hills Park.

Looking Ahead

The Celebrating Tawau Hills Park event strengthened scientific awareness, deepened public appreciation for nature, promoted the park as a key ecotourism destination, and reinforced collaboration among conservation and tourism stakeholders.

The organisers extend sincere thanks to the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Environment Sabah, Tourism Malaysia, Teck Guan Group, Lions Club of Tawau Host, Sabah Tourist Guides Association, Malaysian Association of Tour & Travel Agents, research partners, NGOs, corporate supporters, local communities, volunteers, educators, and youth groups for making this celebration a success.

Together, we continue to celebrate and protect the natural heritage of Tawau Hills Park for future generations!

1StopBorneo Wildlife Team Members