The Sabah Wildlife Department has taken enforcement action against the keeping of a sun bear at a public attraction and the possession of wildlife parts in Lahad Datu.
This follows a complaint received on Feb 11, 2026 after a video circulated on Facebook showing a sun bear at a public site.
Thus, an enforcement operation was carried out on Feb 12 under the Wildlife Conservation Enactment 1997.
Officers found a sun bear cub being kept for public viewing, and a man believed to be the owner or manager of the premises was detained to assist in investigations.
In a separate operation, authorities arrested a man at a food outlet in Lahad Datu for allegedly possessing three sun bear fangs that were being used as ornaments.
The items were seized and the suspect is under investigation.
Sabah Wildlife Department director Mohd Soffian Abu Bakar reminded the public that the sun bear (Helarctos malayanus) is a Totally Protected species under Schedule 1 of the Wildlife Conservation Enactment 1997.
No licences or permits are issued for hunting, possessing, keeping or displaying this species.
“Those found guilty may face a fine ranging from RM50,000 to RM250,000 and imprisonment of one to five years,” he said.
Soffian also stressed that the department will not compromise on violations of wildlife laws and thanked members of the public who report wildlife crimes.
He urged anyone encountering Schedule 1 species such as sun bears to immediately inform the department or surrender the animals for rescue and proper management.
