STATE OF NATURE CONSERVATION IN MALAYSIA 2025: LARGE MAMMALS – ORANGUTANS

Bornean orangutans (Pongo pygmaeus) represent one of Asia’s most iconic and critically endangered great apes, with Sabah and Sarawak hosting vital populations that require integrated approaches to harmonise conservation with sustainable development. This chapter provides a comprehensive review of the status of orangutans across both states based on published papers, field studies, and conservation initiatives to present an updated assessment of their distribution and population. We discuss their status based on data from recent published studies, revealing the geographic ranges across Sabah and Sarawak’s forest landscapes. In addition, the chapter examines conservation challenges and their underlying factors, including habitat conversion, illegal wildlife activities, forest fires, among others. Case studies from key conservation sites including protected areas and community -managed areas illustrate both successful interventions and ongoing challenges. These examples demonstrate diverse approaches ranging from habitat protection and restoration to conflict mitigation and ecotourism development. Our review identifies critical opportunities for enhanced conservation, including landscape connectivity initiatives, local community partnerships, and integrated land-use planning. Policy recommendations highlight opportunities to enhance enforcement capacity, promote habitat connectivity measures, and strengthen cross-sectoral and inter-state collaboration between Sabah and Sarawak. The chapter concludes that building upon significant conservation efforts already undertaken by both state governments, sustained and coordinated action across governmental, private sector, non-governmental organizations, and local communities remains essential to ensure orangutan survival for future generations.