Manis and Candyman, a rescued pair of North Bornean gibbons, have made history with the birth of a male baby in captivity—the first ever recorded.
The newborn, named Nabalu, was born at 5:20 am on May 8, 2025, at the Borneo Gibbon Rehabilitation Project (Borneo GReP) site in Kampung Kiau Bersatu, Kota Belud.
The birth is a breakthrough for Malaysia’s wildlife rehabilitation efforts.
Locally known as kalawot, the North Bornean gibbon is listed as endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).
It is endemic to Brunei, Indonesia, and Malaysia. Wild populations have been ravaged by poaching and the illegal pet trade.
Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister Datuk Seri Christina Liew, who symbolically adopted the infant, chose the name Nabalu.
“Nabalu not only reflects the sacredness and strength of Mount Kinabalu, but also embodies resilience, rootedness, and hope for the future of Borneo’s biodiversity and wildlife.
“It underscores the urgency of protecting what remains of their native habitat,” she said.
Since opening on January 21, 2023, Borneo GReP has expanded from housing five gibbons to 12.
Most were formally surrendered by the Sabah Wildlife Department and individuals.
