Discover the astonishing natural history at Tabin. The reserve boasts a large number of wildlife inhabiting its forest, some of which are highly endangered, endemic and habitat confined species, including the three largest mammals in Sabah – Borneo Pygmy Elephant, Sumatran Rhinoceros and ‘Banteng’ or wild cattle. The elusive clouded leopard, leopard cat and marbled cat as well as 9 species of primates are roaming in the reserve. Tabin is also home to a vast species of tropical birds – approximately 42 families representing 300 species of birds. The Bornean Sun Bear Conservation has recently released two sun bears that has been under their captive to Tabin.

Coming to Tabin Wildlife Reserve, you will see a wide extent of palm oil plantation. Of recent, there has been a movement for more sustainable palm oil produce in Malaysia, which have led to the coalition of the Roundtable on Sustainable Palm Oil.

Gazetted in 1984, the reserve also covers an area of active and mineral rich mud volcanoes. The mud volcanoes are highly attractive to the fauna surrounding it and mammals benefits the area as a natural salt lick. The Tabin Wildlife Reserve is considered to be Sabah’s largest wildlife reserve, occupying  a large part of the peninsula forming the northern headland of Darvel Bay, located some 48 kilometers east of Lahad Datu. 

Tabin Wildlife Reserve comprises of 120 square kilometers of forest land including 90 square kilometers of primary unlogged forest. This vast area contributes to the astonishing variety of natural history in cabin, just waiting to be discovered. The reserve is highly accessible, making it an excellent destination for learning about the rainforest flora and fauna and its roles in the rainforest eco-system. 

Tabin Wildlife Reserve serves as a monitoring and release center for rehabilitated Orangutans and Sunbears, as well as a center for studying and breeding of Sumatran Rhinoceros. This movement has helped to preserve Sabah’s disappearing wildlife and its habitat. Since its establishment, Tabin Wildlife Reserve has continued to become a wildlife hotspot – opening its doors to nature enthusiast and research scientists alike.

If you are keen to experience the reserve and it’s fascinating flora and fauna yourself, nestled within is an eco-resort with 10 x units of River Lodges and 10 x units of Hill Lodges that offers jungle overnight stays.