Scientists unlock secret of proboscismonkey

KOTA KINABALU: There is a secret to Sabah’s iconic male proboscis monkeys – when they become bigger, so will their body and testicles.

But more importantly, the males with a bigger nose can attract more females.

According to a scientific study, there is a clear link between the nose sizes of the males and the number of females in their harems.

The study was jointly carried out by scientists from the Sabah Wildlife Department, Danau Girang Field Centre, Cardiff University and Kyoto University.

Researcher Dr Ikki Matsuda from Chubu University and Kyoto University in Japan said exaggerated male traits, such as a large nose, could be great for attracting females.

During this study, morphological measurements and behavioural observations in free-ranging proboscis monkeys were carried out in the Lower Kinabatangan Wildlife Sanctuary, Dr Ikki said in a statement.

They also recorded the vocalisations of male and female proboscis monkeys at three different zoos – the Yokohama Zoo in Japan, Singapore Zoo and Lok Kawi Zoo in Sabah.

Continue reading (Incl. Pic) at: Scientists unlock secret of proboscis monkeys

.
.

Lok Kawi Wildlife Park must be relocated

KOTA KINABALU: Sabah Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister Datuk Seri Masidi Manjun supports the relocation of the Lok Kawi Wildlife Park as it will allow for better management and beneficial for everyone in the long run.

He said that the current location of the park in Lok Kawi was quite congested and not fully utilised due to its hilly terrain.

“If we are looking ahead, then we have to move to bigger and better forests. Wildlife shouldn’t be contained in small enclosures. It is difficult to see them in real natural habitat in small enclosures,” he told reporters at a Hari Raya Aildifitri celebration yesterday.

He was responding to the Sabah Wildlife Department’s proposal that the Lok Kawi Wildlife Park in Putatan be relocated to Sugud, Penampang.

Its director, Augustine Tuuga, said the department had held talks with Penampang district officials over the proposal and the relocation of the wildlife park was for the government to decide.

According to Augustine, the proposed site in Sugud is well-suited as the forest covers an area of about 1,618.7 hectares compared to Lok Kawi Wildlife Park’s size of 113.3 hectares.

Deputy Chief Minister Datuk Seri Yahya Hussin however has objected to the proposal to shift the Lok Kawi Wildlife Park to Sugud. He claimed that it would be unwise to shift the wildlife park, or commonly referred to as a zoo, as it will cost a lot money and time consuming.

Masidi said the proposal to relocate the park started a few years ago.

“There are a lot of considerations, so it’s not just about whether we want to move, but if the villagers are willing to let go of the land to accommodate the park.

“Personally, I like to plan beyond my lifetime, for future generations. Then yes, I am of the opinion that we need to move,” he said.

Continue reading at: Lok Kawi Wildlife Park must be relocated

.
.

Sabah Wildlife Dept considering relocating Lok Kawi Wildlife Park to Penampang

KOTA KINABALU: The Sabah Wildlife Department is looking into the possibility of relocating the Lok Kawi Wildlife Park to Penampang if sufficient land in the district can be found, Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister Datuk Seri Panglima Masidi Manjun disclosed recently.

“In terms of tourism, this is our contribution to Penampang but the people there have to be receptive to the idea and the leaders there must come and tell us how to make it happen,” said Masidi as the ministry wants to create a tourism product for Penampang to enable them to benefit from the booming tourism industry in suburban Kota Kinabalu.

Presently, the wildlife park is located along the old Penampang-Papar road. “Penampang also has some good land and good paddy field scenery with potential as tourism attractions,” said Masidi during the Sabah Association of Tour & Travel Agents (SATTA) bi-annual dinner cum launching of the inaugural SATTA Almanac 2016 at a hotel on Saturday.

He said Kinabatangan, Kota Belud and Klias have become popular destinations for Europeans and Chinese tourists because the natural beauty has been preserved, unlike Penampang which needs better land development planning.

He said he had discussed the matter with the Penampang District Officer because the irresponsible hill cutting in the district garnered highest number of complaints; an eyesore for visitors.

“I am not criticising the people there, I am just reminding myself and all of you that we need to have planning that serves the future needs of our State. We cannot just take everything now and leave nothing for the future, if one is serious about leaving a better industry for our future generation, I think we need to invest starting now,” said Masidi.

“I would like to apologise for my comments on why the visitors don’t go the Penampang simply because most of the beautiful paddy fields have vanished, now converted into housing estates.

Continue reading at: Sabah Wildlife Dept considering relocating Lok Kawi Wildlife Park to Penampang

.
.

Off the Beaten Track: BORNEO

Tired of going to Phuket or Bali and fighting for a quiet spot on the beach? This month, we take you off the beaten track instead, to a destination, which is a wonderfully kept secret – until now of course. From unique wildlife to untouched jungle, few places can match the natural drama of Malaysian Borneo. Visit the local tribes, spot orangutans in the wild, explore tropical islands, and enjoy the most gorgeous sunsets on this unforgettable adventure, only a two-hour flight away!

Half of me does not want to write this article. I want to keep Borneo as my little secret, and I resent the thought of anyone else knowing about my special Asian vacation hideaway. The other half of me can’t stop talking about Borneo at every party or get-together, and wants to regale everyone with tales of how fantastic this place actually is.

“If Borneo is so wonderful, how come nobody has told me about it yet?” I imagine you asking eagerly. Well, they are probably facing the same dilemma described above. Except the writer and travel enthusiast in me has won; so read on as I share where to go to get the best out of your Borneo experience.

Best for Orangutans:

It is feeding time at the Lok Kawi Wildlife Park, but it’s surprisingly quiet, with bunches of bananas, coconuts and jackfruit piled on the feeding platform. The quiet doesn’t last very long. Soon I hear the snapping of trees, and two chocolate eyes peek out straight at me. Pretty soon, more orangutans swing down, cartwheeling lazily through the trees to gather up the fruit. I look over at the rapture on my two-year-old daughter’s face, and share her unbridled fascination with these animals.

Of all of Borneo’s wild inhabitants, the Orangutan is clearly the king. Derived from the Malay words, orang (person) and hutan (forest), these “people of the forest” live wild only in Sumatra and Borneo.  It is a surreal experience watching these animals in their natural habitat. They seem to have their own personalities; some are forthcoming, others shy, some greedily grab the fruit and linger for photographs, while others nonchalantly stretch out for a siesta.

The Lok Kawi Wildlife Park is a great option for people with little time to spare in Sabah, since it is only 30 minutes away from the capital, Kota Kinabalu. The 280-acre wildlife center is home to several tigers, elephants, orangutans and other protected animals. Go early in the day to beat the heat, and have the best chance of spotting the orangutans in near solitude.

Best for Tribal Culture:

Babbling streams of water, screeching birds and humming crickets make me realize that it’s never quiet in the jungle. As I step inside a traditional longhouse at the Mari Mari Cultural Village, I am surprised to hear the history behind these longhouses (a salient feature of the Rungus tribal culture in Borneo) that our guide, Adam, describes. Each longhouse includes private quarters for up to 50-60 families as well as a shared veranda for village meetings and storage.

The Mari Mari Cultural Village is located deep in the Borneo jungle, about a 25-minute taxi ride from the capital of Kota Kinabalu.  The undisturbed beauty of the forest is certain to capture your heart as soon as you step into the village. The village shares the knowledge, history, culture and tradition of the various tribes in Borneo.

A very interesting experience ensues as our guide takes us to view various tribes and explore the way their ancestors lived. We also have a chance to see their different activities such as rice wine making, honey tasting, bamboo cookery, rope- and vest-making from the bark of a tree, tribal tattoos, fire starting and jumping on a trampoline floor. This is followed by a cultural performance of various dances, including jumping across bamboo pipes (audience participation necessary!).

Lastly, we are treated to a light Halal meal of fish, chicken rice, vegetables and salad (If you are a vegetarian, it is best to let your tour guide know in advance so vegetarian arrangements can be made). If you go for an evening session, as we did, remember to pack the mosquito repellent!

Continue reading (Incl. Pics) at: Off the Beaten Track: BORNEO

.
.

Wildlife crucial for Sabah's economy now

Kinarut: The future of wildlife conservation in the State lies with the younger generations as most of the older generations are, to put it bluntly, beyond hope.

"I mean, let's be honest about it. When you talk to the older generations, what will they say when you tell them about the importance of wildlife conservation? They will say, leave it to the young, they are old, if the wildlife is gone, it does not affect them, they will be gone soon.

"This mindset of thinking only for themselves, that is very difficult to change. But the younger generations, they are more environmentally aware and easier to educate," said Sabah Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister Datuk Seri Masidi Manjun in his World Wildlife Day speech at the Lok Kawi Wildlife Park here.

Also present were Sabah Wildlife Department Director William Baya and Sabah Parks Director Dr Jamili Nais.

The tourism industry in the State, he said, brought more than RM6.3 billion into the State's coffers last year and many of the tourists came here especially to see the animals in the wild, something that they do not have in their own countries.

"You think they come here to see Sabahans? No way. They came not because we are handsome and pretty but because the Orang Utans are prettier and more handsome than us. Unfortunately, many still do not understand this concept," he said.

He conceded that while it is not his intention to make a blanket statement about the current older generation and their lack of concern about the gravity of the situation, it is best to be perfectly honest about the lack of awareness among the people.

Even though people know that it is almost certainly illegal to sell and consume wildlife meat, he said, many will still look for them perhaps because it was quite thrilling to know that what they are feasting on, was obtained in the wild.

"People always believe there is an exotic meat somewhere in some secluded restaurants. They will ask if the shop sells venison, and they do not want those farmed deer but insist on those hunted in the wild.

"It is an unfortunate truth. It hurts but is it happening. It is not possible for the Wildlife Department to keep tab of every restaurant. So the best way is to look at the future generation and hopefully they have a better attitude than us," he said.

Continue reading at: Wildlife crucial for Sabah's economy now

.
.

Sumatran rhinos living on borrowed time in Sabah

Malaysia has three years left to ensure its Sumatran rhino does not become extinct.

A recent survey showed no new sightings of the mammal in the wild. The country received further devastating news that its three Sumatran rhinos in captivity were not fit enough to breed and produce offspring.

Borneo Rhino Alliance (Bora) executive director Datuk Dr Junaidy Payne is not blaming the possible extinction entirely on poaching, loss of habitat or the lack of commitment, but believes the reasoning was also mainly due to core problems which many refused to admit.

He said one was the “Allee effect’ which is a feature of small populations whereby low density limits population growth, leading to a death rate which is higher than the birth rate.

Secondly, Junaidy blamed the almost non-existent global leadership on the matter.

He said the International Union Conservation of Nature (IUCN), a global body entrusted to find pragmatic solutions to the most pressing environment and development challenges, and the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) had not done enough to ensure the Sumatran rhino population in Malaysia, and Sabah in particular, was not affected.

“Now we are left with three Sumatran rhinos, two females and a male, currently in captivity.

“The Sabah and federal governments could have kept this problem quiet, but we choose to make it public that we are losing our Sumatran rhino, especially in the wild.

“Indonesia still has 15, but then again, that’s based on educated guesses. We do not know the exact number.

“These numbers are not many and it’s important for us to act fast and ensure their survival. Otherwise, quoting Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister Datuk Seri Masidi Manjun, ‘we are facing the prospect of our Sumatran rhinos going extinct in our lifetime’,” said Junaidy when met at the Lok Kawi Wildlife Park in Putatan.

He also disclosed that decisions made were not based on facts as many chose to believe that there were still Sumatran rhinos in the wild.

“Today, some are saying there are eight to 10 Sumatran rhinos in the Malaysian wild, but that is only an assumption.

“In reality, we have not seen any new sightings of the mammal in the wild. We only found two five years ago, and then nothing despite all the hard work of setting up cameras in the jungle.”

Continue reading at: Sumatran rhinos living on borrowed time in Sabah

.
.

Wild Borneo: Sabah

The Dews are freshly back from a week spent in Sabah, and our heads are still attached! We survived a visit to the headhunters' village, saw wild animals, climbed (part of) a mountain, and soaked up the beach sun.

Our adventure began in style with three nights at the luxurious Shangri-la Rasa Ria Resort. My kids happily lived these days boogie boarding, flying down the waterslide, finding hermit crabs, and cooling off at the kids' club. Adam and I enjoyed a dinner sans kids, a leisurely bike ride to a water village, and even a deluxe spa treatment involving mud, steam, bubbles, and massage.

We also enjoyed a visit to the onsite Nature Reserve and its rehabilitation program for rescued orangutans. For one hour, we watched from a viewing platform as two toddler orangutans swung from the jungle canopy all around us. I marveled at their agility and commend the resort for its efforts to preserve this beautiful, endangered species.

Moving on from here, we checked in for three nights at the centrally located Kinabalu Daya Hotel in Kota Kinabalu. We shared a family room, which was quite comfortable with one king and two twin beds.

The first day, we walked a short distance to Jesselton Pier and caught a speedboat to Mamutik, one of a group of islands comprising the Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park. Mamutik is a popular spot for snorkeling and beach lounging, and we were lucky to spot quite a few anemones among the coral reefs!

Later, we enjoyed dinner with some friends that recently moved to KK and had a wonderful time catching up on life.

The next morning, we hopped in a taxi and visited the Lok Kawi Wildlife Park. Arriving at feeding time, the animals (especially the sun bears and Asian elephants) were quite playful!

After an afternoon siesta in our room, we enjoyed a night-time visit to the Mari Mari Cultural Village. Here, we donned mosquito repellant and were taken to visit the longhouses of five different tribes, learning about their culture and traditions from our guide and through hands-on activities.

Stilted above ground to avoid flooding and provide protection, longhouses are made of bamboo and have windows for air circulation. Daughters sleep in an upstairs room (with ladder removed), men and boys on the floor below to protect them, parents and grandparents in separate side rooms.

We watched as fire was started without matches, saw how vests are made from tree bark, and observed the clothing styles and skilled arts/crafts of various tribes. We drank homemade rice wine and honey, sampled bamboo cooking, and even got henna tattoos.

Continue reading (Incl. Pics) at: Wild Borneo: Sabah

.
.

Orphaned Borneo Pygmy Elephant calf ‘Joe’ is healthy and well

KOTA KINABALU: It was heart-wrenching looking at the picture of an elephant calf forlornly tugging at its dead mother last January at Gunung Rara.

The elephant calf, who has since been given the name ‘Kejora’ (after the plantation where it was found) and nicknamed ‘Joe’ by his caretakers, is healthy and well – all thanks to the love and care of staff and namely one special person, his preferred caretaker, Augustine David.

“Joe is active and naughty, just like any other child,” said Augustine, when visited by a group of reporters keen on seeing how the six-month-old orphaned calf is doing.

When reporters went into ‘his domain’ at the Lok Kawi Wildlife Zoo, the little calf did what many small children would do in the presence of strangers – he clung on to Augustine.

And like a parent, Augustine stroked the calf’s head, possibly trying to assure it that it was alright. Soon, Joe began moving towards everyone, using his trunk to feel a person’s hand, bags, clothing and so on.

“He has gained 50kg since his arrival. He is 150kg now. He is still nursing, and we give him three litres of milk every two hours. He ‘wails’ when he is hungry,” Augustine said of Joe.

He added that Joe was not like that in the initial stage.

“He was quiet, very insecure. Now, he can be naughty and plays a lot,” he said.

It has been three months since SWD’s sad discovery at Gunung Rara where 14 Borneo pygmy elephants were found dead – one of which was Joe’s mother.

Yesterday, reporters were informed that the death was due to ‘caustic intoxicant’, which in layman terms meanS ‘unidentified toxic poisoning’.

Continue reading (Incl. Pic) at: Orphaned Borneo Pygmy Elephant calf ‘Joe’ is healthy and well

.
.

10 rescued elephants translocated to Tabin Wildlife Reserve

KOTA KINABALU: The Wildlife Rescue Unit from the Sabah Wildlife Department rescued 10 elephants in Lahad Datu from January 18 to 25, this year.

The animals had ventured more than 45km from their original range, the Tabin managed elephant range, and were found only 10km from Lahad Datu town.

Senior officer of the Wildlife Rescue Unit, Jibius Dausip, said they received a call from a man from Sri Tungku Simpang Ladang Permai near Lahad Datu, complaining that elephants were roaming near his house.

“Our team was dispatched to the location and we found 10 individuals together, nine females of various ages and one young male of about four years old. It was most likely a family group that ventured far away from its range,” said Dausip.

Dr Diana Ramirez, wildlife veterinarian from Wildlife Rescue Unit and Danau Girang Field Centre, said in less than eight days, they darted and secured every individual of the family group.

“We then translocated all the females back to Tabin Wildlife Reserve after collaring the two biggest females with satellite units provided by Danau Girang Field Centre,” she said.

Ramirez added the young male suffered a severe injury to its trunk probably from a snare trap.

“Without captive intervention it would have minimum chances of survival in the wild, and we decided to transfer him to Low Kawi Wildlife Park,” she said.

Dr Senthilvel Nathan, senior wildlife officer and Wildlife Rescue Unit manager, pointed out it was impossible to translocate and release the whole group in one day for obvious logistics reasons.

“Bikang 1 was translocated on January 20 and Bikang 2 on January 23 and the other individuals around those dates. After one month, the two females have not met up yet. We are currently studying the possibility of releasing future translocated herds together to prevent the herd from separating.

“That might cost more and it would be logistically more challenging because we would need to set up a pre-release holding area and renting more transporting lorries. But our main concern is the elephants’ welfare and keep the group dynamic intact,” said Nathan.

Danau Girang Field Centre director Dr Benoit Goossens said extensive agriculture through plantations such as palm oil had considerably reduced the habitat of the elephant and other wildlife in Sabah, therefore increasing human-elephant conflicts.

He said the recent death of 14 elephants was most likely a result of human-elephant conflict in elephant ranges and there was an obvious need to better manage the landscape within and around the plantations, by providing routes for wildlife to move from one forest to another.

“After one month of satellite monitoring, we can confirm that the two females have been exploring the reserve and have not (yet) ventured in plantations around Tabin. If they ever return in the vicinity of Lahad Datu, we will be able to analyse their migratory pattern and advise the plantation owners on how to fence their land to avoid any more intrusion.

Continue reading (Incl. Pics) at: 10 rescued elephants translocated to Tabin Wildlife Reserve

.
.

Sabah's pygmy elephant probe bogged down by red tape

KOTA KINABALU: A probe into the death of 14 Bornean pygmy elephants is being bogged down by international procedures.

Samples taken from the elephants that were believed to have been poisoned were supposed to be sent to Thailand and Australia for analysis but state authorities are awaiting the green light from international bodies, including the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES).

“We need to deal with procedures before we can have the samples sent overseas for testing,” said state Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister Datuk Masidi Man­­-jun.

Authorities here had decided to send the samples to Thailand’s Mahidol University poison centre and the Queensland Depart­ment of Agriculture, Fishery and Forestry in Australia as part of the probe into the cause of deaths.

“I was told that we have the nod to send the samples to Thailand and we are doing this now but we are still waiting for approval to send the samples to Australia,” he said.

The 14 elephants were found dead at the Gunung Rara forest reserve, about 139km from the east coast district of Tawau last month.

A three-week-old male calf is the sole survivor of the herd and is being kept at the Lok Kawi zoo.

Continue reading at: Sabah's pygmy elephant probe bogged down by red tape

.
.

New master plan to spruce up Lok Kawi Wildlife Park soon

LOK KAWI: The Lok Kawi Wildlife Park here is coming up with a new master plan to boost visitors’ arrival to the park and turn it into a world class venue.

A provision of RM500,000 has been allocated for the park to come up with a masterplan that should be ready within the next six months, after which, it will be presented to the State cabinet for its approval to implement this year.

“We really need to totally revamp the park and we hope that the new masterplan will give us a new sense of direction and plan,” said Sabah Wildlife Department (SWD) senior veterinarian, Dr Sen Nathan to the Borneo Post and Utusan Borneo when visited at his office yesterday.

He enlightened the reporters that the park was still not making profit – its expenditure per annum stood at RM8 million while the returns generated were just RM1.6 million to RM2 million per annum.

“That is why we need to increase our income and make the operation more profitable,” he said.

The park, which is under the management of the Sabah Wildlife Department (SWD), has been receiving a steady flow of visitors since it was established in 2007.

In 2007, the park received 140,000 visitors. The number rose to 214,000 in 2008 and dropped to 148,000 in 2009. In 2010 and 2011 respectively, the total number of arrivals to the park were 176,000 and 170,000 respectively.

Of the total, less than 20 percent were foreign visitors, said Dr Sen.

“We are aiming for half a million visitors per year and we hope this will be made possible once the new masterplan is implemented,” he said.

Among others, the new masterplan will include streamlining of the park’s management and staffing. It will also look into animal procurement besides doing away with many dated exhibits of old designs that were not in accordance with world standards. Aside from that, the masterplan will also address the marketing and promotional efforts of the park.

He added that they would be concentrating on the endemic species in Sabah, comprising of its 10 primates, of which the orangutans and proboscis monkeys were part of.

“We will also feature our three large mammals — the tembadau, the pygmy elephant and hopefully, the Sumatran rhinocerous…we shall also feature our five different species of cats like the clouded leopard and our smaller mammals such as the civets…these are our species, so we have to make sure we showcase them,” he said.

Aside from local species, the park will also endevour to procure exotic species such as lions, giraffes and zebras, he said.

Continue reading at: New master plan to spruce up Lok Kawi Wildlife Park soon

.
.

Genetic markers key to saving Borneo jumbos

KOTA KINABALU: Experts are delving deep into Borneo elephant genes to identify populations of the pachyderm which are isolated and genetically impoverished.

A recent study conducted by a team of scientists concluded that Borneo elephant show low genetic diversity which could threaten their survival.

The study was published in the scientific journal PLOS ONE by experts from various institutes in Portugal, the United States, the United Kingdom, the Sabah Wildlife Department and the Danau Girang Field Centre (DGFC).

Experts believe that studying the genetic variability of endangered species' is necessary for conservation and monitoring purposes.

Using blood samples collected from captive Borneo elephants at the Lok Kawi Wildlife Park, a team of scientists used cutting edge DNA sequencing methodology to identify genetic markers for the species.

DGFC director Dr Benoit Goossens said access to variable genetic markers was crucial to determine genetically impoverished and isolated elephants.

As Borneo elephants live in highly disturbed habitats due to oil palm plantation development, the populations risked isolation from one another.

"These new genetic markers may also allow us to reconstruct part of the demographic history of the elephants and possibly unravel the mystery of their origin.

"Their presence in Borneo still raises controversy and we have long wondered why the elephants' range is so restricted.

"The only previous genetic study done on these elephants recognised their presence in Borneo for more than 300,000 years, but there is a lack of elephant fossils on the island to support this," said Goossens.

Continue reading (Incl. Pic) at: Genetic markers key to saving Borneo jumbos

.
.

Bornean Elephant: Endangered Species Conservation Gets Some Genomics

Studying the genetic variability of endangered species will be necessary for species conservation and monitoring but endangered species are difficult to observe and sample and typically have very limited genetic diversity.

 A research team has taken advantage of DNA sequencing methodology developed by Floragenex to identify the genetic markers for the Bornean elephant, an endangered species, using blood from very few animals. The results showed that Bornean elephants have very low genetic variability that can impact on their survival to a threatened habitat, but that variable genetic markers can still be identified. The study opens new avenues for the conservation of other endangered species.

The Bornean elephant is a unique subspecies of the Asian elephant, with a quite distinct morphology and behavior. They are generally smaller than other elephants, with straight tusks and a long tail. Currently, there are around 2,000 individuals, located only in the North of Borneo. It remains unknown how this population of elephants evolved to become so different and why its distribution is so restricted.

Despite being one of the highest priority populations for Asian elephant conservation, until now there were limited genetic tools available to study its genetic variability and none that had been specifically designed for this species. The research team used two different DNA sequencing technologies that are fast and increasingly cheaper. This kind of technology has been used for common laboratory species such as mice and fruit-flies, but they are only now starting to be used on endangered and "non-model" species.

Until now, in order to determine whether the species still harboured sufficient genetic diversity it was necessary to look through huge regions of the genome, using classical genetics methodologies, or use markers developed for other species, with varying levels of success. This approach can become unsustainable for the endangered species, whose numbers have gone bellow a certain size for long time.

The only study that previously had tried to analyze Bornean elephants, using genetic markers developed for other Asian elephants had found nearly no genetic diversity. The work now developed demonstrates that if the methodology can be applied to the Bornean elephant, it should be possible to find the needles we need, and not get stuck with the hay, i.e., to find variable genetic markers in many other species.

The DNA analysis done resulted from blood samples collected only from seven Bornean elephants from the Lok Kawi Wildlife Park (Sabah, Malaysia) and from Chendra, the star elephant of Oregon zoo (Portland, USA). But, the research team is confident that these DNA sequencing methods can be used to type genetically other biological samples, such as hair or faeces, easier to obtain from wild animals, even though blood or tissue samples are still necessary to identify the markers during the first steps.

Continue reading (Incl. Pic) at: Bornean Elephant: Endangered Species Conservation Gets Some Genomics

.
.

Southeast Asia’s highest peak and the world’s biggest flower in Kota Kinabalu

On the northwest coast of Borneo island, Kota Kinabalu has a wide variety of attractions, including Southeast Asia's highest peak. Whether your idea of adventure is exploring the great outdoors or indulging in tasty seafood dishes, you'll be sure to find something in the state of Sabah's capital city.

There are many reasons why Kota Kinabalu should be in your travel list for 2012, according to a press release from South East Asian Airlines (SEAIR), which offers roundtrip flights to the exotic destination from the Clark International Airport.

1. For adrenalin junkies, there’s Mount Kinabalu, the highest peak in archipelagic Southeast Asia. Rising 13,435 feet in the middle of a national park, Mount Kinabalu is the first Malaysian UNESCO World Heritage Site. Larger than Singapore, the Kinabalu National Park has around 1,000 species of orchids and over 600 species of ferns, according to the Sabah Tourism Board.

Also found in the park are two species of Rafflesia, the world's largest flower. They can grow up to three feet in diameter and are "usually reddish-brown and stink of rotting flesh," according to the Biological Sciences Department of Western Michigan University.

Encountering such a flower will surely make your trip memorable, especially if it's your first time climbing a mountain. Even couch potatoes can experience Mount Kinabalu, as there are easy trails for beginners.

For something more serious, there's the Mount Kinabalu International Climbathon, which will be held this year on October 14. Now on its 26th year, the grueling climb features a 23-km race course, or two kilometers longer than last year's track. Originally, the race followed the mountain summit trail from the park headquarters to the peak and back, but it will now pass through Mesilau Nature Resort and end at Kundasang town.

2. Nature lovers can also explore the Lok Kawi Wildlife Park, which was developed by the Sabah Wildlife and Forestry Department. It harbors many of the endangered animals of Borneo, and aims to educate the public on the importance of wildlife rehabilitation and conservation.

Borneo Pygmy elephants, Sumatran rhinoceros, and the Malayan tiger are some of the inhabitants of the family-oriented park. The 70-hectare park also has a “primate zone” which features orangutans and proboscis monkeys, so named for their prominent bulbous noses. The park also has an aviary which houses a variety of endemic bird species, the tourism board said.

For birdwatchers, the 24-hectare Kota Kinabalu Wetlands, located just a mile from the city center, has recorded sightings of more than 80 species of birds. Managed by the local NGO Sabah Wetlands Conservation Society, there is a 1.5-km boardwalk that brings nature lovers into a mangrove, where resident birds as well as migratory species have been spotted.

3. Beach lovers can explore the reefs at the Tunku Abdul Rahman Park, a popular spot for snorkeling and diving. With shallow waters and little current, even novice divers can explore the reefs. Among the marine life spotted in the area are the scorpionfish, blue-spotted rays, cuttlefish, mantis shrimps, green and hawksbill turtles, and even the exotic harlequin ghost pipefish and mandarin fish.

Continue reading (Incl. Pic) at: Southeast Asia’s highest peak and the world’s biggest flower in Kota Kinabalu

.

.

Why Kota Kinabalu should be in your 2012 travel list

The modern city of Kota Kinabalu in Sabah, the Malaysian Borneo, offers travellers a wide variety of landscapes from beaches and virgin coral reefs to lush tropical rainforests. Here are five reasons why the city should be in your travel list this year:

1. Mount Kinabalu

Southeast Asia’s highest peak and the 20th most prominent mountain in the world, Mount Kinabalu, is located only 30 minutes away by bus from the city center. The  mountain stands 4,095 meters or 13,435 feet in the middle of Kinabalu National Park, the first Malaysian Unesco World Heritage Site. Kinabalu National Park is one of the most popular ecotourist destinations in the region and is considered an important biodiversity site with over 4,500 species.

Mount Kinabalu offers climbers a challenging trek or a relaxing hike for those who prefer a more leisurely pace. It is the venue for ‘the world’s toughest mountain race’, the Mount Kinabalu International Marathon, which will be held this year on Oct. 14.

2. Exotic wildlife

Developed by the Sabah Wildlife and Forestry Department, the Lok Kawi Wildlife Park in Kota Kinabalu has devoted 70 hectares to the preservation of the endangered animals of Borneo, as well as the education of the public on the importance of wildlife rehabilitation and conservation. It has a “primate zone” which features exotic wildlife including orangutans and proboscis monkeys (named so for their prominent bulbous noses). The park also houses an aviary where a variety of endemic bird species has called it their home.

For birdwatchers, the Kota Kinabalu Wetland Center, located just a mile away from the city center, has recorded sightings of more than 80 species of birds.

3. Diving

Only 15 minutes away from the city via speedboat, the Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park is composed of five small islands and undamaged coral reefs and is popular among tourists and locals alike for snorkelling, diving and relaxation. Lying in shallow waters with gentle currents, the reefs are ideal for novice divers, and the rare marine creatures that inhabit them will interest even the most experienced divers and underwater photographers.  Among the marine life that have been spotted here include the scorpion fish, blue-spotted rays, cuttlefish, mantis shrimps, green or hawksbill turtle, and sometimes the exotic harlequin ghost pipefish and mandarin fish.

Continue reading at: Why Kota Kinabalu should be in your 2012 travel list

.

.

Emerging disease threat to proboscis monkey

KOTA KINABALU: Sabah Wildlife Department (SWD), Danau Girang Field Centre (DGFC) and EcoHealth Alliance (EHA) recently organised a one-day training workshop on zoonotic diseases, or diseases transmitted between wildlife and humans, at Lok Kawi Wildlife Park.

Staff from SWD Wildlife Rescue Unit (WRU), DGFC, WWF and the Institute for Tropical Biology and Conservation, Universiti Malaysia Sabah, attended the training provided by EHA.

“We recently started a collaboration with the EcoHealth Alliance and the PREDICT programme on emerging diseases, funded by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID),” explained Dr Laurentius Ambu, director of SWD.

The PREDICT project is a component of the USAID-funded Emerging Pandemic Threats program, which works globally to pre-empt and combat diseases that could spark future pandemics.

“Emerging diseases are very important to consider because wildlife and people get closer and closer due to habitat loss and degradation. Diseases are driven by stressed ecosystems, expanding human populations and fractured natural habitats, something more and more common in our environment,” added Ambu.

“The objective of PREDICT is to build a global early warning system for emerging diseases that move between wildlife and people,” explained Tom Hughes, project coordinator for EHA in Malaysia.

“Zoonotic pathogens often don’t cause disease in natural hosts, it is therefore very important to conduct surveillance of ‘healthy’ animals. This is what we are starting in Sabah in collaboration with the Sabah Wildlife Department, Danau Girang Field Centre and other institutions such as Universiti Malaysia Sabah and the NGO HUTAN,” said Hughes.

“It¡¯s important to remember that most animal viruses spill over into human populations because of our own activities that bring us into closer contact with wildlife,¡± added Hughes.

“One of our goals with PREDICT is to identify which viruses in wildlife are most likely to infect people, which human activities bring people into contact with wildlife in a way that increases risk of disease transmission and work with our partners to reduce the risk of people and wildlife coming into contact, so that these viruses never make the leap into human populations", he added.

Continue reading at: Emerging disease threat to proboscis monkey

.

.

Borneo Elephant Wildlife Sanctuary hits snag

THE Borneo Elephant Wildlife Sanctuary, which was expected to be ready by the middle of the year for the Borneo Pygmy elephants and other wildlife driven from their habitat, has hit a snag.

There is a shortage of experts to train the elephants.

In fact, there is only one specialist in the state.

He is Sabah Wildlife Department's elephant trainer Jibius Dausip, who is now tasked with recruiting and training mahouts.

Jibius, 48, from Tambunan, who had more than 20 years experience taking care of elephants, said he had seen many of his peers give up their careers as mahouts because it took a lot of sacrifice and dedication.

A mahout needs years of training and is expected to spend long periods away from his family while staying in the remote wilds of Sabah, including at wildlife reserves such as Tabin in Lahad Datu.

While training was mainly done with the elephants rehabilitated at Lok Kawi Wildlife Park, Jibius said the job went beyond normal working hours as he resided in the Park, always on standby in case of emergencies.

"Elephants are huge but shy creatures and not everyone can handle them.

"That is why you need to create a special bond with each individual elephant.

"This, of course, requires spending a lot of time together.

"I guess I am still in this business because I love working with elephants," said Jibius, who was trained in Thailand and Europe before coming home to Sabah to help train the locals.

Sabah Wildlife Department senior veterinarian Dr Sen Nathan, who is also officer in charge of Lok Kawi Wildfire Park, said there were three full-fledged mahouts and five mahouts-in-training.

Continue reading (Incl. Pic) at: Borneo Elephant Wildlife Sanctuary hits snag

.
.

Brighter future for Borneo Pygmy Elephants

A new home awaits elephants which have been displaced from their natural habitat.

WITH an increasing number of wild elephants being displaced from their forested habitat or injured by snares, a rescue centre is badly needed to shelter these animals.

Such a facility, the Borneo Elephant Wildlife Sanctuary, will soon open in the district of Kinabatangan in the east coast of Sabah.

Sabah Wildlife Department (SWD) director Dr Laurentius Ambu says the 22,000ha facility will house orphaned, displaced or injured Borneo pygmy elephants which have been rescued, with the ultimate goal of translocating the animals back to their natural habitat.

The pygmy elephant, smaller than their peninsula counterpart, is endemic to Borneo. With the population in Sabah down to some 2,000, the species is considered endangered in the state and was last month upgraded to the “totally protected” status. (In Peninsular Malaysia, the elephant is already a totally protected animal.)

Ambu says 60% of the elephants in Sabah are located outside protected areas, in places such as plantations and isolated forest patches, and can no longer follow their traditional migration routes.

“So you can see how important the sanctuary is for elephants that are outside protected areas. We may not be able to accommodate all of them, but we will try to bring in elephants which are injured and eventually release them back into the wild once they are healthy,” he told reporters after the opening of the Sabah Wildlife Conservation Colloquium in Kota Kinabalu last month.

He says the centre can accommodate about 20 elephants at any one time but it is estimated that some 60 to 100 elephants need to be translocated as their present roaming grounds are too small or there are conflicts between humans and elephants.

The setting up of the elephant sanctuary will cost an estimated RM15mil to RM20mil. It has been given a kickstart with RM5mil from the Malaysian Palm Oil Wildlife Conservation Fund and another RM1.5mil from a foreign conservation group, Borneo Conservation Trust Japan. It will have a rescue facility, a research and education division, and staff for rescue and translocation operations. Work on the centre has started, and soil surveys and levelling of land have been carried out.

The new elephant sanctuary will complement the work of SWD rangers at the existing Wildlife Rescue Unit based at the Lok Kawi Wildlife Park in Kota Kinabalu. Set up through a joint initiative with Shangri-la Rasa Ria and Malaysian Palm Oil Council, the Rescue Unit has been involved in wildlife rescue and translocation operations throughout the state to reduce incidences of human-animal conflict which often result in the animals being killed. Elephant rescue is one of its key activities.

Says SWD chief veterinarian Dr Senthilvel Nathan: “The elephant situation in Sabah is critical, with only about 2,000 left, and many are displaced, orphaned and injured. There are many cases of injuries due to snares. As efforts to identify and establish corridors (to connect fragmented forest patches) are part of a long-term solution, rescue work is important.”

To rescue the elephants, funds are needed as the cost of translocating one elephant is between RM30,000 and RM40,000.

Continue reading (Incl. Pic) at: Brighter future for Borneo Pygmy Elephants

.
.

Blazing Sabah - 3 days with only RM 500

The challenge was to spend three whole days in the “Land Below the Wind” which is Sabah, Malaysia with only 500 Malaysian Ringgit in our pockets. Could we handle it? Armed with hungry eyes and ears for information, an ample amount of curiosity, my travel buddy Rey Rivera of the Philippine Star and I, toting a handsome pair of Canon cameras, gamely took on the challenge. Kota Kinabalu, here we come!

Heart of the city

The challenge started at the city’s zero kilometer point located at the Sabah Tourism Building. Our first task was to secure lodging. Just a couple of blocks from the zero kilometer point, at the middle of the city’s Australia Place is a backpacker lodge called Lucy’s Homestay. Other backpackers from all over the world were also lodged at Lucy’s Homestay and so it became the melting pot for people with a single mission: To blaze Sabah.

Our first stop was the Signal Hill Observatory. Our roving eyes spotted eyes spotted a trail in Lucy’s backyard that cuts through the mountain side going up, which made it easier for us to reach the view deck. The place was a good place to start because it offered an excellent view of Kota Kinabalu City’s skyline. From there, it was another short walk to see the Atkinson’s Clock tower, an enduring landmark which serves as the city’s official time piece.

We then walked westwards towards the harbor to check out the scene at Kota Kinabalu’s Esplanade. The spot offers an excellent view of the sea as well as the five islands that make up the Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park which is located just off the city’s shore.

On our way to the city’s public bus terminal in front of Wawasan Plaza, we followed the harbor going south and came across the Central Market, the Wet Market, as well as the Handicraft Market which is also known as the Filipino Market because of the many Filipino merchants selling various products for tourists and locals alike.

Taking a bus that travels the line going to Penampang took us to the Sabah Museum Complex which houses several facilities that offer a glimpse of Sabah’s culture and lifestyle. Aside from the museum which gave us a glimpse of the province’s history, the complex also has the Sabah Islamic Civilization Museum and the Sabah Art Gallery which is a repository of contemporary pieces by local artists. Also inside the complex is a Heritage Village which depicts the people’s living conditions from the past, from its structures all the way to the tropical landscape where they settled.

We then took off to Lok Kawi Wildlife Park which is approximately five kilometers from the town of Kinarut. Along the way, we saw local wildlife including the Borneo Pygmy elephants, Malayan tiger, Proboscis monkey and the famous Orangutan.

This was followed by a trip to the iconic Menara Tun Mustapha, also known as the Sabah Foundation Building, to catch a glimpse of a fantastic view of the sunset. About 15 kilometers away from the city center at the Likas Bay area, the 30-storey high steel and glass tower draws a poetic scene when set amid the setting sun, definitely one good way to end a tiring day.

Welcome to the jungle

My travel buddy and I agreed to spend the second day with a trip that would traverse the area around Mount Kinabalu. We left Lucy’s early to get a ride going to the National Park. Because our itinerary would also cover the locations around the Kundasang village and Ranau town area, we opted to charter a taxi to take us to the destinations that we planned to see for a fixed rate. Fortunately, our driver, Mr. Yap Nyun Sang, was sympathetic and gave us really cheap rates.

The trip took us eastward towards the Ranau district and as soon as we left the city proper of Kota Kinabalu, it was all pristine landscapes and lush greeneries. The road going to the park proved to be a spectacular one as it elevated well above sea level. The view of the jungle canopy below, as well as the looming presence of Mt. Kinabalu served as a refreshing start to what was expected to be another tiring day.

Before getting to the Kinabalu National Park, we stopped over the town of Nabalu. Set up right beside the road is a complex that offers food and beverage as well as stalls selling souvenirs for tourists. The best thing about the spot is that it has a spectacular view of Mt. Kinabalu which we gladly took advantage of and captured great images of the towering peak.

As soon as we reached the Kinabalu National Park, we immediately sensed the altitude because of the cold climate and the distinct vegetation. The cool mountain breeze greeted us as we walked from the park’s entrance. It wasn’t long before we saw a trail that left the paved road and went deep into the woods.

We followed the Pandanus Trail, which was a 598 meter trek through a thick forest teeming with different types of vegetation. Although the distance was short, the trek was mostly uphill so it took us about 20 minutes to go through the trail. Climbing up the steep track wasn’t as hard as it seemed because of the cool temperature. The scene was made even more dramatic once the fog rolled in which gave the landscape a mystifying effect.

Continue reading (Incl. Pic) at: Blazing Sabah - 3 days with only RM 500

.
.

Jumbo ride for 2 ailing kids at Lok Kawi Wildlife Park

KOTA KINABALU: It was all smiles for two terminally-ill children when their dream to be close to nature became a reality yesterday.

Mohd Adha Sarifuddin and Intan Marisya Eilya Marianizam, both animal lovers, had a field time at the Lok Kawi Wildlife Park, accompanied by their parents and friends.

Adha and Intan wasted no time when they were told to climb on the elephant. It was impossible to believe that these children were battling cancer and leukemia.

"I am having a great time," said the chirpy 4-year-old Intan from Perak as she climbed on the buggy that took them around the park.

Her parents, Marianizam Abu Bakar, 36, and Norhaliza Jaapar, 29, shared her enthusiasm as they snapped memorable photos of the little girl with the wildlife.

"She just loves animals. She would play with cats, chicken, ducks, fish and even the neighbour's rabbits back home," said Marianizam.

Adha was also enjoying himself. Apart from the elephant ride, the duo also had the opportunity to get close to Borneo's primates - the Orang Utan and Proboscis Monkeys.

Continue reading (Incl. Pic) at: Jumbo ride for 2 ailing kids at Lok Kawi Wildlife Park
.
.