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Design & Layout: • Corporate Communications Division Yayasan Sabah Group
About this report
This integrated annual report provides a fundamental overview of our operations throughout 2025. In addition, this report intends to give our stakeholders information about our activities and financial performance. The audited Yayasan Sabah Consolidated Account for 2024 will be enclosed with the report by the end of 2025.
Chief Minister of Sabah/ Chairman of Yayasan Sabah Board of Trustees
Director of Yayasan Sabah
Executive Chairman of
10
HUMAN CAPITAL & SUSTAINABILITY
Sabah Maju Jaya Development Plan 1.0 : 2021-2025
12
COMMERCIAL UNDERTAKINGS
Innoprise Corporation Sdn. Bhd.
11
SOCIAL PROGRAMMES
Education Empowers; Knowledge Enriches
Child Development
Education Sponsorship
Education Loan Collection
Kolej Teknologi Yayasan Sabah
University College Sabah Foundation
Tun Haji Mohd. Fuad Stephens Borneo
Research Library
Enhancing Rural Community Capacities
Social Development Programmes
Pusat Kraftangan Sabah
14
Committee
Inspection
13 TODAY’S HERITAGE TOMORROW’S HOPE
Yayasan Sabah Conservation Area
Danum Valley Conservation Area
Maliau Basin Conservation Area
Imbak Canyon Conservation Area
Taliwas River Conservation Area
Silam Coast Conservation Area
INFAPRO
INIKEA
Sabah Nature Club
Messages Key
Message
Chief Minister of Sabah/ Chairman of Yayasan Sabah Board of Trustees
The Yayasan Sabah Group remains the cornerstone of our efforts to uplift the lives of Sabahans, marking six decades of transformative impact across education, social welfare, and economic development. Its legacy is built on the promise of a more equitable and prosperous future for all.
Reflecting on our progress, we move forward with renewed vigour into the next phase of our development. Our strategies are firmly anchored in the Hala Tuju Sabah Maju Jaya 2.0, ensuring our initiatives are modern, sustainable, and inclusive. We are committed to pushing new frontiers to ensure the Group remains a catalyst for progress, driving innovation while preserving our shared values for future generations.
To the Board of Trustees, Management, and staff of the Group, I express my sincere appreciation for your unwavering dedication and excellence. Your commitment is vital to our collective success. I wish you continued strength as we work together toward a thriving and resilient Sabah.
DATUK SERI PANGLIMA HAJI HAJIJI BIN HAJI NOOR
Message
Director of Yayasan Sabah
Assalamualaikum Warahmatullahi Wabarakatuh, Salam Sejahtera and Salam Sabah Maju Jaya.
The Yayasan Sabah Group has been a driving force in transforming the lives of the people of Sabah for close to 6 decades, leaving an indelible mark on our education, society and economy. Under the leadership of the Yayasan Sabah Board of Trustees, led by the esteemed Yang Amat Berhormat Datuk Seri Panglima Haji Hajiji bin Haji Noor, we have achieved significant milestones in operational excellence and financial growth. A key achievement remains our consistent success in economic governance, reflecting our commitment to sound management and accounting practices for the benefit of the state.
As we transition into the next phase of development, we remain steadfast in our mission to enrich lives for a sustainable future. Guided by the Hala Tuju Sabah Maju Jaya, we will continue to elevate the quality of life for all Sabahans, empowering the next generation to lead and innovate through our scholarship, loan, and community initiatives. Our focus is on creating lasting change, ensuring that the Group remains a pillar of support and accountability for the people of Sabah.
To the Management and staff, thank you for your passion, resilience, and unwavering dedication in ensuring the Group's continued success. Your alignment with our core values ensures that we continue to make a lasting impact on our society. Together, we will continue to push boundaries and build a prosperous legacy for our future generations.
We present to you the Yayasan Sabah Group Annual Report 2025.
DATO' SRI DR. HAJI GULAMHAIDAR @ YUSOF BIN KHAN BAHADAR, JP
Message
Executive Chairman of Innoprise Corporation Sdn. Bhd.
Assalamualaikum Warahmatullahi Wabarakatuh, Salam Sejahtera, and Salam Sabah Maju Jaya.
The year 2025 marks a significant chapter for Innoprise Corporation Sdn. Bhd. (ICSB) as we align our commercial strategies with Hala Tuju Sabah Maju Jaya. As the investment arm of the Group, ICSB remains committed to driving commercial excellence and resilience, ensuring that our business growth directly contributes to the socio-economic prosperity of Sabah. This unwavering commitment has positioned us for unparalleled growth, allowing us to navigate a complex global market with confidence.
We are aggressively expanding our business horizons and optimising our existing ventures to maximise revenue. Our goal is clear - to ensure that every strategic step delivers stronger financial returns, which, in turn, fuel the Group's vital social and development initiatives. By reinvesting our profits into scalable and sustainable initiatives, we are creating a cycle of prosperity that directly benefits our local communities.
The success of ICSB is a direct result of our robust business efforts and the dedication of our invaluable team. I extend my deepest gratitude to our stakeholders, partners, and staff for your trust and commitment. As we move forward, we remain focused on long-term prosperity, strategically aligning our resources to deliver tangible benefits and achieve new heights of success for Sabah.
Thank you.
DATUK JASNIH BIN DAYA
Profile
YB DATO' SRI DR. HAJI GULAMHAIDAR @ YUSOF
BIN KHAN BAHADAR, JP
Director
of Yayasan Sabah
Political Career and Public Service
YB Dato’ Sri Dr. Haji Gulamhaidar’s dedication to public service saw him contest the Sabah State Election for the Kawang (N28) constituency in 2004. Since then, he has been a steadfast Sabah State Legislative Assembly member, passionately representing the Kawang constituency for over two decades.
Leadership and Board Memberships
His leadership extends beyond his political career. YB Dato’ Sri Haji Gulamhaidar has chaired the Board of Directors of Innovation Papua New Guinea Ltd., a subsidiary of Innoprise Corporation Sdn. Bhd. (ICSB), until 2008. His commitment to public service saw him return to government roles, serving as Sabah Local Government and Housing Assistant Minister and Sabah Infrastructure Development Assistant Minister. Currently, YB Dato’ Sri Dr. Haji Gulamhaidar holds significant positions on the boards of several key subsidiaries of ICSB. These include Sabah Softwoods Berhad, Innoprise Plantations Berhad, Regional Harvest Sdn. Bhd., Sabah Softwoods Hybrid Fertiliser Sdn. Bhd., and Serijaya Industri Sdn. Bhd. His extensive involvement underscores his pivotal role in these organisations and highlights his dedication to the business community.
Educational Background
In addition to his impressive career, YB Dato’ Sri Dr. Haji Gulamhaidar is academically accomplished, earning Doctor of Political Science from Wilmington Metropolitan University and Doctor of Business Administration from Open University Malaysia (OUM). He also holds a Professional Master's Analyst in Political Science from OUM and Professional Master in Political Science from UTMSPACE (Universiti Teknologi Malaysia School of Professional and Continuing Education). His distinguished academic background also includes a Bachelor's degree in Human Resource Management from the University of Florida, USA, and MBA in Human Resource Management from Berkeley International University of California. His academic qualifications complement his extensive professional experience, marking him as a leader with both practical and theoretical expertise.
Since taking the reins of Yayasan Sabah on 2 November 2020, YB Dato’ Sri Dr. Haji Gulamhaidar @ Yusof bin Khan Bahadar has made significant strides in fulfilling its commitments, focusing on educational initiatives and community development. His strategic vision and dedication have been pivotal in driving the Group’s mission forward.
YB DATUK JASNIH BIN DAYA
Executive Chairman of Innoprise Corporation Sdn. Bhd
Early Career and Rise at BERNAS
YB Datuk Jasnih's professional journey began at PadiBeras Nasional Berhad (BERNAS), where he quickly made a mark. After graduating, he joined the Young Managers Programme and embarked on an extensive career in the international trade industry. His expertise in import and export operations was honed through his dealings with key Asian markets, including Vietnam, Myanmar, India, and Pakistan.
Recognising his adaptability and skill, BERNAS transitioned him to the domestic trade sector, specifically focusing on the East Malaysia (Sabah & Sarawak) Rice Business Sector. His exemplary performance promoted him to Manager and Head of the Shipping and Claims Unit (Import & Trading) at BERNAS Kuala Lumpur. In 2004, he further solidified his reputation by coordinating the BERNAS Special International Project, notably the Myanmar Special Project Procurement Executive Project followed by being the Regional Head of BERNAS.
Corporate Leadership
and
Public Sector Contributions
A seamless blend of corporate acumen and public service characterises YB Datuk Jasnih's career. After excelling in various roles within BERNAS, including General Manager of BERNAS Sabah, he transitioned to the public sector. In 2015, he was appointed as a Board of Director for the Housing and Urban Development Board (LPBB), a government-linked agency, before returning to the corporate world in 2017 as the Non-Executive Chairman of Sazarice Sdn. Bhd.
Political Career and Recent Leadership at ICSB
In 2020, YB Datuk Jasnih contested and won the Sabah State Election for the Pantai Dalit (N13) constituency. His victory led to his appointment as Assistant Minister of Finance, a role he held until early 2023. His leadership at ICSB began soon after, marking another significant milestone in his distinguished career.
Board Memberships and Ongoing Contributions
YB Datuk Jasnih's influence extends across multiple organisations. He serves as a Board Member for Innoprise Plantations Berhad and Serijaya Industri Sdn. Bhd., all subsidiaries of ICSB. These roles highlight his extensive experience and unwavering commitment to the business community.
Educational Background
YB Datuk Jasnih holds a Bachelor's in Science Economics from Indiana State University, Terre Haute, Indiana, USA. His academic foundation and diverse professional experience underscores his capability and vision as a leader.
Since assuming the role of Executive Chairman at Innoprise Corporation Sdn. Bhd. (ICSB) on 26 January 2023, YB Datuk Jasnih bin Daya brought the company a wealth of experience and strategic insight. His career trajectory is a testament to his leadership and versatility across corporate and public sectors.
Group Our At A Glance
OUR GROUP AT A GLANCE
VISION
A Dynamic, People Oriented, Committed and Caring Organisation.
MISSION
To uplift the quality of life of Malaysians in Sabah.
OBJECTIVES
• To give deeper and broader emphasis on the advancement of education;
• The relief of poverty; and
• The undertaking of charitable activities.
ROLE
Supplementing and complementing the state and federal government in the development of Sabah in particular and Malaysia in general.
FUNCTION
A strategic development vehicle of Sabah State Government.
CORE VALUES
• Honest
• Dynamic
• Result Oriented
• Committed
• Firm
• Caring
• Resilient
Governed How We Are
How We Are Governed
Corporate Structure (as of 31 December 2025)
Sabah State Government
Yayasan Sabah
Innoprise Corporation Sdn. Bhd.
Sapangar Sdn. Bhd.
KKYS Sdn. Bhd.
UNI YS Sdn. Bhd.
Borneo Refugia Adventure Sdn. Bhd.
YAB DATUK SERI PANGLIMA
HAJI HAJIJI BIN HAJI NOOR
Chief Minister of Sabah Chairman
YB DATUK SERI PANGLIMA
Dr. JEFFREY G. DATUK KITINGAN, JP
Deputy Chief Minister I/Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food Industry Sabah
Director of Sabah State Education Department Member
YBHG. DATUK HAJI
RAISIN BIN SAIDIN Member
YB DATUK SERI PANGLIMA
Sr. HAJI SAFAR
BIN UNTONG, JP
State Secretary of Sabah Member
YBHG. DATUK SERI
PANGLIMA HAJAH
AZIZAH BINTI
HAJI MOHD. DUN Member
How We Are Governed Yayasan Sabah Board of Trustees
(as of 31 December 2025)
ENCIK HASSAN MAHALI
Permanent Secretary Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation Sabah Member
YBHG. DATUK Dr. HAJAH
JAINAB BINTI DATUK
SERI PANGLIMA
HAJI AHMAD AYID Member
Secretary
The Board of Trustees of Yayasan Sabah cum Corporate Secretary
YBHG. DATUK FREDERICK KUGAN
Chief Conservator of Forests Sabah Member
YBHG. DATUK Dr. OSMAN @ OTHMAN BIN MINUDIN Member
ENCIK HANAFIAH BIN DIMAN
How We Are Governed
ICSB Board of Directors (as of 31 December 2025)
DATUK JASNIH BIN DAYA Executive Chairman
YB DATO’ SRI HAJI GULAMHAIDAR @ YUSOF BIN KHAN BAHADAR, JP
Member
YBHG. DATUK FREDERICK KUGAN
Member
YBHG. DATUK Dr. HAJAH ROSMAWATI HAJI LASUKI, JP
Member
PUAN JOCELYN CHONG FUNG KEN Senior Company Secretary
ENCIK JOSHUA HO YEE EN, JP
Member
YB
How We Are Governed - Management Team
YB Dato’ Sri Dr. Haji Gulamhaidar @ Yusof bin Khan Bahadar, JP Director Yayasan Sabah (YS)
Encik Hanafiah bin Diman Corporate Secretary Yayasan Sabah
Puan Halijah binti Haji Laini
Group Manager Human Resource & Administration Division (YS/ICSB)
Encik Sam S. Karnail
Group Manager Corporate Communications Division
Encik Asman bin Dulamid Group Manager Education Development Division
Ir. Haji Rohan bin Haji Ahmat
Group Manager Energy & Facilities Division
Encik Douglas J. Joinol Chief Operating Officer Innoprise Corporation Sdn. Bhd.
Dr. Waidi Sinun
Group Manager Conservation and Environmental Management Division
Encik Zainudin bin Saridi
Chief Librarian Tun Haji Mohd. Fuad Stephens Borneo Research Library
Dr. Yap Sau Wai Group Manager Research Division
Puan Vivian Evans
Group Manager Pusat Kraftangan Sabah
Puan Ramsina Hansaram Group Manager Information & Communication Technology Division
(as of 31 December 2025)
YB Datuk Jasnih bin Daya Executive Chairman Innoprise Corporation Sdn. Bhd. (ICSB)
Encik Zulkhairi Haji Ismail Chief Coordinator of Zone Administration
Puan Hajah Ainahwati binti Haji Abdul Sani Group Manager Internal Audit Division (YS/ICSB)
Rosmini Simin Group Manager Child Development Division
Dr. Li Fui Yee @ Esther Group Manager Forestry Division
Haji Budirman bin Daud
Group Manager Corporate Business Development Division
Encik Awangku Nazaruddin bin Datuk Pg. Hussien
Group Manager Real Estate Division
Senior Group Manager Accounts & Financial Services Division (YS/ICSB)
Encik Mohd. Sharuddin bin Mohd. Wali
Group Manager Education Loan Collection Division
Bahiwata
Group Manager Sabah State Education Fund Division
Group Manager Integrity & Enrichment Division
Puan Anica Jamui Senior Legal Advisor Legal Division (YS/ICSB)
Puan
Sayangan Haji Mulia
Puan
Tuan
Encik Midin Haji Asli
Encik Joshua Ho Yee En, JP
Tuan
Senior Company Secretary
Puan Jocelyn Chong Fung Ken
2025 Snapshots
6 January
Talk on Malaysia Madani in the context of Sabah Maju Jaya jointly organised by Yayasan Sabah Group & YADIM at University College Sabah Foundation, Sembulan.
SNAPSHOTS 2025
16 January
Student Excellence Award and Appreciation Ceremony at SK Kogopon, Papar.
18 January 7 January
MoA and MoU Signing Ceremony between Koperasi Pekerja Yayasan Sabah Berhad and GoNet at Hilton Hotel, Kota Kinabalu.
The 41st Yayasan Sabah Group Preschool Certificate Presentation Ceremony and Concert at Tun Ahmad Raffae Auditorium, Menara Tun Mustapha.
8-9 January 18 January
Interview Session for the Recruitment of Form One Maahad Kawalan Yayasan Islam Kelantan (YIK) and Maahad Tahfiz Negeri Pahang (MTNP) Student sponsored by Yayasan Sabah Group at Menara Tun Mustapha.
Visit from Red Arc Education Xplorer at Menara Tun Mustapha.
22-23 January
Team Building Programme for New Staff of Innoprise Corporation Sdn. Bhd. at the Sabah International Convention Centre.
28 January
The Sabah State Education Fund (TPNS) Presentation Ceremony at Ministry of Science, Technology & Innovation Sabah, Wisma Bandaraya, Kota Kinabalu.
3 February
The 15th Kelantan Inter-State Sports Festival (PESAYA) Technical Committee Meeting at Menara Tun Mustapha.
6 February
12 February
13-14 February
The Opening Ceremony of the Potential, Challenges, and Knowledge Needs for Reforestation with Native Tropical Rainforest Trees Workshop at Shangri-La Tanjung Aru, Kota Kinabalu.
Majlis Bersama Jabatan (MBJ) Meeting at Menara Tun Mustapha.
MoU Signing Ceremony between Petrosabah Sdn. Bhd. and Zecon Berhad at Hotel Zecon, Kuala Lumpur.
15 February
Under - 12 Men’s Futsal Tournamanet organised by Innoprise Capital Sdn. Bhd. at Yayasan Sabah Tun Adnan Sport Complex.
16 February
Student Exchange Programme to Peninsular Malaysia Briefing at Menara Tun Mustapha.
21 February
23 February
Men Open Futsal Championship organised by Innoprise Capital Sdn. Bhd. at Yayasan
26 February
27-28 February
The 2nd International Business Events Forum “Empowering Asia Pasific through Business Events” at Sabah International Convention Centre.
Yayasan Sabah Group Awards Night at Sabah International Convention Centre.
Sabah Tun Adnan Sports Complex.
Visit from National Heart Institute in Sabah.
3 March
6 March
12 March
11-12 March
13 March
13 March
Yayasan Sabah Group Contributes to Fire Victims at Multipurpose Hall, Kg. Likas.
Ramadan Talk organised by Badan Kebajikan Islam Kumpulan Yayasan Sabah (BAKIYS) at Menara Tun Mustapha.
Staff Orientation Session at Multivision Room, Menara Tun Mustapha.
Ramadan Talk organised by BAKIYS at Menara Tun Mustapha.
Distribution of Bubur Lambuk organised by BAKIYS at Menara Tun Mustapha.
Breaking of Fast at Masjid Mutiara Kasih Pangsapuri, Lahad Datu.
13 March
13 March
14 March
14 March
15 March
15 March
Breaking of Fast at Kg. Puntingabai, Tambunan.
The Sabah State Education Fund (TPNS) Presentation Ceremony at Ministry of Science, Technology & Innovation Sabah, Wisma Bandaraya, Kota Kinabalu.
Breaking of Fast at Surau Nurulhuda, Kg. Sri Long Pias, Tungku, Lahad Datu.
Breaking of Fast at Al-Amin Mosque, Kg. Sri Menanti, Sook.
Majlis Berbuka Puasa at Al-Huda Mosque, Kg. Kirokot Baru, Apin-Apin, Keningau.
Breaking of Fast at Umar Al Khattab Mosque, Taman Telipok Ria Fasa 3.
16 March
16 March
17 March
17 March
18 March
18 March
Handing Over of
and Medical
to Security
Breaking of Fast at At Taubah Mosque, Kg. Lok Batik, Tuaran.
Breaking of Fast at Al-Kauthar Mosque, Kg. Tanah Merah, Keningau.
Breaking of Fast at Ar-Rahman Mosque, Tenom.
Breaking of Fast at Al Muhajirin Mosque, Kg. Pangkalan Inderasabah, Tawau.
Ramadan Talk organised by BAKIYS at Menara Tun Mustapha.
Hari Raya Goodies
Forces
Frontliners by Chief Minister of Sabah at Menara Kinabalu.
20 March
Breaking of Fast-Chief Minister of Sabah with Sabah Students Studying at Institutions of Higher Learning in Peninsular Malaysia at Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre (KLCC).
23 March
24 March
23 March
Breaking of Fast at Nurul Iman Mosque Kawang, Papar.
25 March
Breaking of Fast
Imam
26 March
Breaking of Fast at Pengiran Haji Rauf Mosque, Kg. Pengalat Besar, Papar.
Breaking of Fast at Darussalam Mosque Kg. Bahagia, Sandakan.
at
Haji Mohd. Yaakub Misir Mosque, Kg. Beringgis, Papar.
Sembang Madani Programme at Menara Tun Mustapha.
26 March
Breaking of Fast at Al-Hikmah Mosque Kg.
April
27 March 27 March
15-16 April
Hazard Identification, Risk Assessment and Risk Control (HIRARC) Workshop at Menara
15-16 April
for Leaders Course
Tengah Kinarut.
Kasih Ramadan Programme organised by Borneo Security Centre Sdn. Bhd. at Menara Tun Mustapha.
Breaking of Fast at Al Hadhari Mosque Kg. Manunggui, Kota Belud.
Blood Donation Programme at Menara Tun Mustapha.
Tun Mustapha.
Coaching
at Shangri-La Tanjung Aru, Kota Kinabalu.
17 April
22 April
The Sabah State Education Fund (TPNS) Presentation Ceremony at the Menara Kinabalu.
22-23 April
Maliau Basin Conservation Area Strategic Management Workshop at
23 April
Let’s Read Together for 10 Minutes Programme at
24 April
Exhibition in conjunction with the Sabah Renewal Energy Conference at Shangri-La Tanjung Aru, Kota Kinabalu.
30 April
Syawal Month Talk organised by Badan Kebajikan Islam Yayasan Sabah (BAKIYS) at Menara Tun Mustapha.
Shangri-La Tanjung Aru, Kota Kinabalu.
Sekolah Rendah Islam Kota Kinabalu, Alamesra.
Hari Raya Aidilfitri Celebration organised by the Child Development Division at Tadika Ria.
30 April
Document Exchange Ceremony for the Development of a 162 MW “Run-of-River” Hydroelectric Power Plant in Upper Padas River, Sipitang at Menara Kinabalu.
2 May
Shooting Training Session, Permit and Weapon License Renewal for 2025 - 2026 at Royal Malaysian Police (PDRM), Target Field Lok Kawi, Sabah.
8 May
Visit from SMK Terusan, Lahad Datu at Menara Tun Mustapha.
13 May
Collaboration Agreement Signing Ceremony between Innoprise Corporation Sdn. Bhd., Eastern Pacific Marine Services Sdn. Bhd. & Sinopec Heavy Lifting and Transportation Co. Ltd. at Sabah International Convention Centre.
19 May
21-23 May Majlis Bersama Jabatan
DaMal Rainforest Landscape Awareness Programme at Maliau Basin Studies Centre, Kalabakan.
(MBJ) Meeting at Menara Tun Mustapha.
24 May
3 June
21 June
18 June
24 June
25 June
The 40th Sports Day organised by the Child Development Division at Futsal Arena, Yayasan Sabah.
The Sabah State Education Fund (TPNS) Presentation Ceremony at Sabah State Library, Keningau.
Koperasi Pekerja Kumpulan Yayasan Sabah Meeting at Tun Hamdan Theatre, Menara Tun Mustapha.
Official 74th Birthday Celebration Ceremony of His Excellency the Governor of Sabah at Padang Merdeka, Kota Kinabalu
The Launching Ceremony of Langom Control Centre and Research Station at Danum Valley Conservation Area, Lahad Datu.
Yayasan Sabah Group Contributes to Fire Victims at Kg. Darau, Kota Kinabalu.
26 June
SPM Answering Technique Workshop at SMK Sindumin, Sipitang.
30 June
3 July
3 July
the
7 July
Integrity Strengthening Programme for Yayasan
Contingent
10 July
Funeral Service Management Course at Al-Jamaah Mosque, Kg. Biau Bongawan.
Pledge of
15th Malaysia Inter-State Foundation Sports Festival (PESAYA) at Futsal Arena 2, Yayasan Sabah Group Tun Adnan Sports Complex.
Yayasan Sabah Group & Employees Provident Fund (EPF) Outreach Programme at Tun Hamdan Theatre, Menara Tun Mustapha.
Sabah Group
in conjunction with the 15th PESAYA at Tun Hamdan Theatre, Menara Tun Mustapha.
Maal Hijrah 1447H Talk organised by BAKIYS at Tun Hamdan Theatre, Menara Tun Mustapha.
11 July
22 July
12-21 July
21 July
Mind Intellectual Development Programme:
24 July
Visit
26 July
Exhibition in conjunction with the
The Sabah State Education Fund (TPNS) Presentation Ceremony at Wisma MUIS.
The 15th Malaysia Inter-State Foundation Sports Festival (PESAYA) at Kelantan.
The 36th Sabah State Scholarship Award of Excellence Ceremony at Sabah International Convention Centre.
Opening Ceremony of the Borneo Flora Festival at Labuan.
Succes in Your Hands at Tun Hamdan Theatre, Menara Tun Mustapha.
from Sekolah Agama Rendah Alamesra at Menara Tun Mustapha.
29 July
29-30 July
Mastering Generative AI Course: Tools, Techniques and Applications at The Palace Hotel, Kota Kinabalu.
30 July
The Sabah State Education Fund (TPNS) Presentation Ceremony at Kolej Tingkatan 6, Kota Kinabalu.
30 July
Talk on the Roles and Responsibilities of the Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) Committee at
31 July
Occupational Safety and Health Liaison Officer Meeting at Tun Hamdan
31 July
Course of Empowering Entreprenuers Through Digital Technology at Hotel Raia,
Tun Hamdan Theatre, Menara Tun Mustapha.
Yayasan Sabah Group Contributes to Fire Victims of Kg. Mengkabong, Tuaran.
Theatre, Menara Tun Mustapha.
Kota Kinabalu.
1-8 August
6-7 August
In-House NLP Course and Workplace Applications at Sabah International Convention Centre.
11 August
12 August
12 August
Gotong-Royong Programme at Kg. Sirung Sumandak Sumbiling, Ulu Bongawan.
12-14 August
Maliau Basin Sustainable Financing & Ecotourism Workshop at Sabah International Convention Centre.
Tuhau & Wild Fungi RMK12 TUB Project Workshop at Imbak Canyon Conservation Area, Tongod.
Takoyaki Making Technique Course at Mesapol Community Hall, Sipitang.
Majlis Bersama Jabatan (MBJ) Meeting at MTM.
19 August
The Sabah State Education Fund (TPNS) Presentation Ceremony at Libaran Multipurpose Hall, Sandakan.
22-23 August
Imbak Canyon Conservation Area Nature and Knowledge Orientation Programme at Imbak Canyon Studies Centre, Tongod.
23 August
Potential Day Celebration of the
Group Child Development
28 August
31 August
National and Sabah
3 September
Yayasan Sabah
Division at Menara Tun Mustapha.
Yayasan Sabah With the People (YSBR) Roadshow at Pisompuruan Square, Tambunan.
Day Parade di Jalan Tun Fuad Stephens, Kota Kinabalu.
The Seminar on Imbak Canyon Conservation Area Wildlife & Resources Survey at Shangri-La Tanjung Aru, Kota Kinabalu.
9 September
9 September
19-26 September
26 September
27-28 September
29 September
The Sabah State Education Fund (TPNS) Presentation Ceremony at Ministry of Science, Technology & Innovation Sabah, Wisma Bandaraya, Kota Kinabalu.
Sabah State Education Fund (TPNS) Assistance Presentation Ceremony at the Sabah International Convention Centre.
14th Chief Minister’s Department (JKM) Muhibah Sports Festival.
The Sabah State Education Fund (TPNS) Presentation Ceremony at Wisma Bandaraya, Kota Kinabalu.
Sabah Fest Extravaganza 2025 at Sabah International Convention Centre, Kota Kinabalu.
Yayasan Sabah With the People (YSBR) Roadshow at Dewan Masyarakat Tawau, Tawau.
Courtesy Call to Yayasan Sabah Group from Perbadanan Hal Ehwal Bekas Tentera (PERHEBAT) at Menara Tun Mustapha.
Courtesy Call to the Director of Yayasan Sabah from Lembaga Hasil Dalam Negeri at Menara Tun Mustapha. 2 October 3 October
8-9 October
Maliau Basin Conservation Area (MBCA) Stakeholder Consultative Workshop for Revision of the Strategic Management Plan 2025-2034 at Shangri-La Tanjung Aru, Kota Kinabalu.
15 October
The Appreciation Ceremony for the Yayasan Sabah Group Parade Contingents at the Multivision Room, MTM.
16-17 October
Yayasan Sabah Educational Sponsorship Policy/ Guidelines and Rates Review Workshop at Beringgis Beach Resort, Papar.
18 October
Yayasan Sabah With the People (YSBR) Roadshow at
Astaka Padang Komuniti Daerah Kota Marudu.
21 October
International Conference Borneo’s Green Heart : Advancing Climate Resiliance, Conservation, and Sustainable Livelihoods at SICC.
22 October
31 October - 2 November
30 October
Closing Ceremony of Child Development Division Library Day Programme at Tadika Ria, Yayasan
4 November
4-5 November
Visits from Students and Teachers of SMK Datuk Panglima Abdullah, Semporna to Menara Tun Mustapha.
Sabah.
Big Sabah Sales 2025 organised by Sabah International Convention Centre.
Visit from SK Pengalat, Papar at Menara Tun Mustapha.
Imbak Canyon Ecotourism Workshop at Sabah International Convention Centre.
7 November
Closing Meeting on the Audit of Yayasan Sabah’s Financial Statements for the Financial Year Ended 31 December 2024 at Wisma Innoprise.
7 November
Presentation of Closed-Circuit Television (CCTV) to SK Longongon, Nabawan, Pensiangan at MTM.
8 November
Forum on Common Disciplinary Offences in the Workplace at Multivision Room, MTM.
9 November
12-13 November
Interview Session for the Recruitment of Form one Maahad Kawalan Yayasan Islam Kelantan (YIK) and Maahad Tahfiz Negeri Pahang (MTNP) Student sponsored by Yayasan Sabah Group at Menara Tun Mustapha
14 November
The Appreciation and Closing Ceremony for the Special Programme for Natives of Sabah (PKAN) at Pusat Kraftangan Sabah, Keningau.
Yayasan Sabah With the People (YSBR) Roadshow at Dataran Kilapi, Kg. Rampayan Laut, Kota Belud.
Yayasan Sabah Group Contributes to Fire Victims at Bandar Sierra, Kota Kinabalu.
The 42nd Yayasan Sabah Group Preschool Certificate Presentation Ceremony and Concert at Auditorium Tun Ahmad Raffae, Menara Tun Mustapha.
Visit from SMK Segama, Lahad Datu at Menara Tun Mustapha.
Majlis Bersama Jabatan (MBJ) Meeting at Menara Tun Mustapha.
Visit from SK Klias Kecil, Beaufort at Menara Tun Mustapha.
from SK
Federal Territory
9 December 9-10 December
16 December
Courtesy visit to the Director Office of Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission at Sabah Federal Government Administrative Complex.
Internal Course on Building Skill of Supervisor
16 December
17 December
Courtesy Call to Yayasan Sabah Group from Universiti Islam Sultan Sharif Ali (UNISSA) Brunei Darussalam at Menara Tun Mustapha.
18 December
Dividend Presentation from Innoprise Corporation Sdn. Bhd. to Sabah State Government & Yayasan
Visit
Bukit Kallam,
of Labuan at Menara Tun Mustapha.
at Sabah International Convention Centre.
The 28th Kolej Teknologi Yayasan Sabah Convocation Ceremony at Sabah International Convention Centre.
Sabah at Menara Kinabalu.
19 December 22 December
Visit from SK Pengalat Kecil, Papar to Menara Tun Mustapha.
Visit from SK Bukit Quoin, Papar to Menara Tun Mustapha.
NEWS 2025 In The YSG
JANUARY
JANUARY
Recognitions & Awards 2025
AWARDS & RECOGNITIONS 2025
Benta Wawasan Sdn. Bhd.
● The Best Company Award 2025 (Highest Dividend Contributor - Silver) in conjunction with the Yayasan Sabah Group Awards Night on 6 May 2026 at Sabah International Convention Centre, Kota Kinabalu
● Fast Moving, Growing & Sustainable Best Brand Award in conjunction with the BrandLaureate Brand of the Year Awards 2025-2026 on 28 January 2026 at The Majestic Hotel, Kuala Lumpur
Borneo Rainforest Lodge
● Sabah Best Practice in Tourism (Accommodation - Gold) in conjunction with the 13th Sabah Tourism Awards 2025 on 30 January 2026 at Grand Ballroom, The Magellan Sutera Resort, Kota Kinabalu
● Sabah Best Practice in Tourism (Leadership - Organisation - Gold) in conjunction with the 13th Sabah Tourism Awards 2025 on 30 January 2026 at Grand Ballroom, The Magellan Sutera Resort, Kota Kinabalu
● Sabah Tourism Champion (Sustainability - Silver) in conjunction with the 13th Sabah Tourism Awards 2025 on 30 January 2026 at Grand Ballroom, The Magellan Sutera Resort, Kota Kinabalu
● Sabah Tourism Champion (Leadership – Individual : Mr. Sail Jamaludin (Chief Operating Officer) - Bronze) in conjunction with the 13th Sabah Tourism Awards 2025 on 30 January 2026 at Grand Ballroom, The Magellan Sutera Resort, Kota Kinabalu
● Best Adventure Tour Operator 2025 – Malaysia in conjunction with The LUXlife Leaders in Luxury Awards 2025, officially announced online by the TheLUXlife Magazine on 10 November 2025
● Sabah Best Practice in Tourism (Tourism Product - Gold) in conjunction with the 13th Sabah Tourism Awards 2025 on 30 January 2026 at Grand Ballroom, The Magellan Sutera Resort, Kota Kinabalu
● Luxury Sustainable Resort (Malaysia) Award in conjunction with the 19th World Luxury Hotel Awards 2025 on 31 October 2025 at Parkroyal Collection Pickering, Singapore
● Luxury Eco Lodge (Asia) Award in conjunction with the 19th World Luxury Hotel Awards 2025 on 31 October 2025 at Parkroyal Collection Pickering, Singapore
● Luxury Wilderness Lodge Global Award in conjunction with the 19th World Luxury Hotel Awards 2025 on 31 October 2025
Borneo Security Centre Sdn. Bhd.
● The Best Company Award 2025 (Most Promising Company) in conjunction with the Yayasan Sabah Group Awards Night on 6 May 2026 at Sabah International Convention Centre, Kota Kinabalu
Innoprise Plantations Berhad
● The Best Company Award 2025 (Highest Dividend Contributor - Bronze) in conjunction with the Yayasan Sabah Group Awards Night on 6 May 2026 at Sabah International Convention Centre, Kota Kinabalu
● The Best Company Award 2025 (Agro Plantation Sector) in conjunction with the Yayasan Sabah Group Awards Night on 6 May 2026 at Sabah International Convention Centre, Kota Kinabalu
● The Best Company Award 2025 (Chairman of Yayasan Sabah Board of Trustees Award) in conjunction with the Yayasan Sabah Group Awards Night on 6 May 2026 at Sabah International Convention Centre, Kota Kinabalu
Kimanis Power Sdn. Bhd.
● The Best Company Award 2025 (Other Investment Sector) in conjunction with the Yayasan Sabah Group Awards Night on 6 May 2026 at Sabah International Convention Centre, Kota Kinabalu
Sabah International Convention Centre
● Best Convention and Exhibition Venue in conjunction with the Tourism Industry Award 2025 on 9 August 2025 at Sunway Resort Hotel
● Congress/Conference Excellence: Be In Sabah 2025 in conjunction with Malaysia Business Events Award 2025 on 7 August 2025 at Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre
● Purpose Built Convention and Exhibition Excellence in conjunction with Malaysia Business Events Award 2025 on 7 August 2025 at Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre
● SICC CEO, Datuk (Dr.) Hajah Rosmawati Haji Lasuki was awarded the Community Leader of The Year in conjunction with the Des Prix Infinitus Media Leadership Excellence Awards 2024/2025 on 12 June 2025 at Le Meridien, Putrajaya
Shangri-La Tanjung Aru
● The Best Company Award 2025 (Tourism Sector) in conjunction with the Yayasan Sabah Group Awards Night on 6 May 2026 at Sabah International Convention Centre, Kota Kinabalu
● Excellent Achievement Award (Hospitality) in conjunction with the Prime Minister’s Hibiscus Award (PMHA) 2024/2025 on 27 January 2026 at One World Hotel, Kuala Lumpur
● State Sabah Award (Hospitality) in conjunction with the Prime Minister’s Hibiscus Award (PMHA) 2024/2025 on 27 January 2026 at One World Hotel, Kuala Lumpur
● Platinum rated in the Malaysia Tourism Quality Assurance (MyTQA) 2024-2027 list by the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture (MOTAC)
● The Wedding Vow, Singapore - Best Luxury Rooms in Malaysia, Best of Malaysia (2025 Guide)
● DestinAsian's 18th Annual Readers' Choice Awards - Top 10 Best Resorts in Malaysia
● Trip.com Group Award - Top Engaged Chain 2025
● Trip.com Group Award - Chinese Friendly Hotel 2025
● Luxury Lifestyle Awards - Best Luxury Seaside Resort in Southeast Asia
● Travel + Leisure Luxury Awards Asia Pacific 2025 - Ranked 2nd in Malaysia's Best Beach, Island and Upcountry Hotels
● Trip.GourmetTrip.Best 2024 – Coco Joe’s Bar & Grill recognised among the Best Restaurants for Views and Experiences
● Trip.Best 2025 by Trip.com – Luxury Hotel Recognition
● Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC) Certified Hotel 2025 – 2028 – Certified by Vireo under the GSTC Industry Criteria for Hotels (Version 3 – 2016), recognising Shangri-La Tanjung Aru’s commitment to globally recognised sustainability standards
Sabah Softwoods Berhad
● The Best Company Award 2025 (Highest Dividend Contributor - Gold) in conjunction with the Yayasan Sabah Group Awards Night on 6 May 2026 at Sabah International Convention Centre, Kota Kinabalu
● Winner of Category 3 Renewable Energy Off-Grid (Power) in conjunction with National Energy Awards 2025 on 25 September 2025 at Hilton Kuala Lumpur Hotel, Kuala Lumpur
● 2nd Runner-Up Asean Renewable Energy Project Awards (Off-Grid-Power Category) in conjunction with ASEAN Energy Awards (AEA) 2025 on 17 October 2025 at Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre (KLCC), Kuala Lumpur
The Group
● 1st Runner up in the 14th Chief Minister's Department (JKM) Goodwill Sports Festival on 19-26 September 2025 at Sabah International Convention Centre
● 2nd Runner Up - Parade Competition (Commercial/Private Sector Category) in conjunction with the National Day Sabah Day Parade on 31 August 2025 at the Dataran Bandaraya, Jalan Tun Fuad Stephens, Kota Kinabalu
● 2nd Runner Up - Parade Competition (Commercial/Private Sector Category) in conjunction with the 74th Official Birthday of His Excellency Head of State of Sabah Parade on 21 June 2025 at the Padang Merdeka, Kota Kinabalu
Our Pillar Integrity
Being an organisation entrusted by the State Government to bring about socioeconomic change for the people, the Group is committed to leading the way towards good corporate governance practices.
Toward this end, the Group has placed efforts in strengthening integrity practices within the organisation, which aligns with the government's drive, by negating bribery, embezzlement, power abuse, fraud, and other negative factors that hinder the development of an organisation.
With integrity firmly in place, the Group is committed to achieving its goal of improving the quality of life of the people efficiently and expeditiously.
corporate
GOVERNANCE INITIATIVES
Integrity reports
The Group complies with the requirements of the Sabah State Government and the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC). The Group provides two main reports:
• Quarterly reporting of Integrity Activities through the Agency Integrity Management System (AIMS). This system is monitored by the MACC.
• Organisation Anti-Corruption Plan (OACP) initiative achievement report is submitted through i-Do system. The system is supervised by the office of the Deputy state Secretary (Administration) in collaboration with Sabah State Integrity & Governance Division.
The Group is also a member of the Chief Minister's Department 2023-2027 Anti-Corruption Plan Performance Coordination Meeting, where each organisation must present their AntiCorruption Plan Implementation Status Report.
The Group’s Anti-Corruption Plan is in transitioning process towards Organisation Anti Corruption Strategy (OACS). The provisions in the Plan are meant to encourage business and other activities in the Group to be carried out in a corruption-free environment, to encourage the Heads of Division/Zone/Unit to take adequate measures to prevent corruption in their respective offices and promote better corporate governance and legal compliance.
Internal Audit
The Group will continue developing effective risk oversight and management procedures to aid decision-making. This is accomplished by emphasising the action plans and controls adopted due to internal audit findings.
Internal auditing gives insight into policies and procedures while assisting the Board and Management by checking internal controls such as operational effectiveness, risk mitigation controls, and compliance with applicable laws and regulations. The risks in question are not only compliance-related but also financial and operational.
Yayasan Sabah Group Anti-Corruption Plan
Yayasan Sabah Group Gift Acceptance Policy
The Policy was approved on 1 December 2020. The Policy ensures that the Management and staff of the Group adhere to the organisation's code of conduct when giving or accepting gifts or other such tokens of appreciation.
The Policy requires the Management and staff to demonstrate the highest standards of ethics and conduct regarding potential and existing vendors, suppliers, and customers. The Integrity and Enrichment Division is the Secretariat that implements the Policy.
Corporate Governance Charter
The Group's business dealings are guided by Innoprise Corporation Sdn. Bhd. Corporate Governance Charter. The approval of the Charter by the Board of Directors, in conjunction with the Company's Memorandum and Articles of Association and the Malaysian Code on Corporate Governance, provides authority and practices for sound corporate governance.
The Charter specifies the Group's governance structure, the internal regulations of the Board of Directors and its committees, and other essential matters. It directs the Board of Directors in carrying out their responsibility to monitor the Group's business for the benefit of shareholders.
The Group believes that the following are the guiding principles of good corporate governance:
Minority shareholders, investors, and other stakeholders are treated fairly and have their interests considered.
Disclosure of information - financial, organisational, governance and related transactions - are adequate and timely for stakeholders to assess the organisation's performance.
Senior Management is accountable to the Board of Directors for achieving plans and implementing approved policies that ensure the safeguarding of assets and the Group's financial viability. The Board of Directors are accountable to the shareholders and other stakeholders.
Clear lines of responsibility need to exist regarding delegations of authority and which actions or decisions require Board or shareholder approval. Responsibility must be attributed to having accountability for results.
The Group strives for the highest ethical standards, including doing what it says, sharing results accurately and transparently and adhering to all laws, rules, and regulations that govern the Group's operations. The Board recognises that good corporate governance is a means to an end, improving the Group's capacity to establish and achieve its goals.
The Group Audit Committee is an independent observer, ensuring that the audit reports’ findings are free of conflicts of interest and recommending appropriate corrective actions.
The Excellent Service Award recognises staff who have delivered exceptional service to the organisation. Award recipients receives a certificate, a performance prize of RM1,000.00 and opportunities for career advancement through self-development courses, seminars, or conferences that can improve work performance. Recipients are also prioritised for State honours.
Yayasan
Sabah Head of Division Category
1. Ramsina Hansaram Group Manager
and Communication Technology & Occupational Safety and Health Division
2. Zainudin bin Saridi Chief Librarian Tun Haji Mohd. Fuad Stephens Borneo Research Library
8. Norkhajijah binti Hj Mohd Tussin Chief Zone Administrator
Executive
Coast North Zone (Kota Marudu)
& Enrichment Division
Secretary’s Office
South Zone (Beaufort)
North Zone (Keningau)
Development Division
Coast South Zone (Tawau)
Communications Divsion
9. Jupilin Gilau Manager
10. Mohd Redzuan bin Mohamad Zin
Siti Aisah binti Said
7. Lawrence Kurus
8. Hanizah binti Saidi
Maurice Yong
binti
Anica Jamui
Sayangan binti
10. Noraini binti Idris
Sabah Kuala Lumpur Branch 6. Erlyne Chriscella
Yayasan Sabah
Yayasan Sabah’s Office
5. Nur Hanisah binti Taulani
6. Kong Nyuk Tzen @ Aileen Kong
7. Adzrul bin Datu Ugis
8. Mohammad Zakiyah bin Mohd Yahya
Non-Executive Category
Tawau
2. Pg. Mohd Abdillah bin Pg. Said
3. Irwan bin Ayub
4. Juliana Saragon @ Sogaron
Keningau 5. Mary Joan binti Taji @ Paul
Kota Kinabalu
11. Sabrin Masan
12. Rouzalia binti Tinsung
4. Rodhaizah Izzah binti Abdul Rashid
9. Albinia binti Malibin
1. Mohd Shafiq bin Kasan Technician
6. Josephine binti Riang
Tawau
7. Halimah binti Gapid @ Kapid
8. Hazmiyani binti Ali
Lahad Datu
9. Amat Unding
10. Jeiry Kandu
SILVER JUBILEE AWARD 2025
In recognition of and appreciation for the staff's efforts and
4. Mahat bin Rahman
13. Jalumin bin Limun
Sandakan
14. Razie bin Mohd Zain
APPRECIATION AWARD 2025
Tokens of appreciation are handed out to retires as well through the Group's Appreciation Award. The recipients receives a certificate and RM1,500, honouring the many years of service they have dedicated to the Group.
Yayasan Sabah
3. Mary Agnes Stephen Hostel Warden
4. Md. Arshad Ahmad Administrative Assistant Officer
5. Rahama Bolong Cook
6. Hamidan Suin Field Officer
1. Teo Guan Leck Zone Chief Administrator
2. Irene Ambrose @ Barnedette Principal
5. Norhaidah binti Maral Manager Forestry Division, Lahad Datu
6. Mohd Rezal bin Punjungan Senior Clerk Forestry Division, Sandakan
Innoprise Corporation Sdn. Bhd.
4. Ephrin Leonard Chan @ Ephrem
9. Bibiana @ Bibiana Flora binti Stephen
Administrative Officer
MBJ is a two-way platform that allows Employee Representatives to engage with the Management, share their thoughts and give constructive ideas for the benefit of the Group.
MAJLIS BERSAMA JABATAN (MBJ)
The Federal Government Service Circular No. 2 of 1992 mandates the establishment of MBJ for all State and Federal departments, agencies, and statutory bodies to build a harmonious working relationship between the Management and staff. The MBJ of the Group, which was established in 2005, meets four times a year, quarterly.
Throughout 2025, the Employee Representatives raised 38 new issues concerning staff welfare and other related matters.
Total Numbers of Issues : 38
34 Issues
4 Issues (89.5%) Resolved (10.5%)
Pending Approval
Since its inception two decades ago, the Group’s MBJ has indirectly instilled a spirit of teamwork among staff and encouraged them to serve with greater dedication. It also promotes higher job satisfaction, increased productivity, higher work quality, better career advancement, mutual respect between Management and staff, loyalty to the organisation, and unity.
The Group’s MBJ comprises twelve members, six of whom are Management Representatives, and the remaining six are Employee Representatives. The Corporate Communications Division is the Secretariat of the Council.
The Management Representatives are appointed according to their respective positions, and there is no limit to the term of holding the positions in the Council :
Director of Yayasan Sabah - Chairman
Executive Chairman of ICSB - Deputy Chairman
Senior Group Manager
Account and Financial Services Division (YS/ICSB) - Member
Group Manager
Human Resource and Administration Division (YS/ICSB) - Member
Group Manager
Forestry Division - Member
Acting Group Manager
Corporate Communications Division - Secretary
Based on the Group’s MBJ Constitution, the Employee Representatives consist of staff (from Salary Grade 44 and below for Yayasan Sabah and Salary Grade 2 and below for ICSB).
The Chairman of the Employee Representatives is the Vice-Chairman of the Council, while the elected Secretary will be the Joint Secretary. They shall hold their position for two years.
Keningau, Beaufort & Kudat Interior Zone North)
Kota Kinabalu (YS) Integrity & Enrichment Division
Kota Kinabalu (ICSB) Corporate Communications Division
Tawau
Forestry Division, Tawau Regional Office
Sandakan East Coast Zone (North)
Lahad Datu (Forestry Division, Lahad Datu Regional Office)
Encik Suwandy Sundu - Chairman
Puan Nor Effa Efizah
binti Ag Chuchu - Secretary
Encik Ahmad Fauziee bin Wasimin - Member
Azlina Michael - Member
Puan Nur Aqilah
binti Omar Baki - Member
Puan
Encik Safri bin Omar - Member
The following staff served as Employee Representatives for the 2026-2028 session :
The Management emphasises staff development through training, seminars and workshops. The ongoing staff development has ostensibly imparted responsibility, satisfaction and retention among the staff while engaging them through consistent training and development programmes.
The training also involves programmes that enable staff to learn specific skills or knowledge in improving work performance while preparing them for future performance rather than an immediate career role improvement.
The Group offers university students the experience of doing actual work while studying. The hands-on training teaches about the skill sets required, industry demands, and work ethics. At the same time, it allows students to practice what they have acquired at university.
Advancing Sustainability & Human Capital
HALA TUJU SABAH MAJU JAYA (DEVELOPMENT
PLAN 2021-2025)
Driving the SMJ with an Array of Initiatives
The Group continuously implemented various programmes in line with the SMJ Development Plan. As the State Government's strategic machinery, the Group is focused on the three SMJ main thrusts: Human Capital & People Well-Being, Infrastructure Network & Green Sustainability, and Tourism Sector. The Group implemented 19 initiatives in 2025 to strengthen the strategic interests of the SMJ, boosting human capital development with a focus on education from early childhood to higher learning, preserving the environment and promoting green economic growth.
The Group will continue to deliver our SMJ efforts to stimulate and strengthen the development of human capital, in the quest to produce not just thriving human capital in monetary and career terms, but also those who are creative and critical in their thinking.
21 INITIATIVES
Providing quality care services for 100 children at Taska Ria and Taska Kristal Ria, Kota Kinabalu.
100 113 100% students students
84 100% students students Human Capital & People's Welfare - 13 INITIATIVES
3
Guiding all core subjects and care for 20 primary school students at the Transition Centre of the Child Division. 1 2
20 36 100% students students
Providing quality kindergarten education for 80 students at Tadika Ria.
80
Sponsoring a total of 1,879 secondary and higher education students.
1,879 1,509 80% students students
Targeting the registration of 1,447 new students to KTYS.
1,447 1,462 100% students students
Registering student intake of 300 students for UCSF.
300 514 100% students students
Carrying out 12 Environmental Education activities a year.
12 42 activities activities
Targeting 90% of the KTYS graduates' employability rate after 6 months of graduation.
Targeting 70% of the UCSF graduates' employability rate after six months of graduation. 70% 97.3%
employability rate employability rate
Implementation of 10 public awareness programmes/skills training/continuous professional development/upskilling/seminars at UCSF aligning with the government's initiative to make Sabah a Smart & Green State. 10
10
11 100% programmes programmes
Implementing three UCSF activities on research projects based on green, ethnic and social studies initiatives.
3
Training for 30 graduates on forest conservation and environmental protection at INFAPRO & INIKEA.
30
32 100% graduates graduates
1 7
1 projects study projects study
Conduct a study to obtain data on demand, product types, and sources of bamboo raw materials in Sabah in 2025.
Carrying out 180 patrolling activities every year for five conservation areas and two forest rehabilitation areas (INFAPRO & INIKEA) to reduce/prevent incidents of forest encroachment and illegal hunting.
Complete the final report and publication of 'Exploring The Commercial Potential of Tuhau (Etlingera coccinea) by 2025 to enhance the capacity and knowledge of the Sabah Foundation Forest Rangers.
Producing a report and publication of the book 'Borneo Wild Fungi Series 1' by 2025 to increase the capacity and knowledge of the Yayasan Sabah Forest Rangers.
1
1 100% report report
Developing the YSG's 'Facility Booking & Reservation' System by 2025.
Planting 8,297 bamboo trees and 6,715 rattan trees in FMU15, Sook, Keningau by 2025.
8,297 8,297
6,715 6,715 100% bamboos bamboos rattan rattan
Tourism Sector - 1 INITIATIVE
Targeting 7,300 visitors annually for five conservation areas and two forest rehabilitation areas (INFAPRO & INIKEA).
7,300 18,632 100% tourists tourists 3 4 5
Programmes Social
Knowledge Enriches Empowers; Education
PRINTING & PUBLISHING
RM7,288.85
ADMINISTRATION & FINANCE
RM34,818.06
KINDERGARTEN
RM172,322.67
NURSERY (DAYCARE)
TASKA RIA: RM113,171.79
KRISTAL RIA: RM96,285.80
TOTAL EXPENDITURE: RM483,459.21 EXPENDITURE 2025
RIA DAYCARE CENTRE
RM48,297.06
RESEARCH & DEVELOPMENT
RM11,274.98
RIA DAYCARE CENTRE
RM64,716.00
KRISTAL RIA NURSERY
RM276,025.00
RIA KINDERGARTEN
RM319,379.50
RIA NURSERY
RM266,038.50
EDUCATION SPONSORSHIP
Since its establishment, the Group's education programmes aim to supplement and complement the government activities to improve the quality and facilities of education for the people of Sabah. The major thrust of the Group's education development programme is to provide financial assistance through scholarships, bursaries and loans at the secondary and tertiary levels. 4
1968-Now
1990-Now
Secondary Education Programmes
Peninsular Malaysia Secondary School Scholarship
This programme provides opportunities for Sabah students to enjoy better educational facilities and provide exposure to national integration. Scholarships are offered to Sabah students to attend the best secondary schools in Peninsular Malaysia from form one to form five. In 2025, 146 students were sponsored under this scholarship. These students attend 34 selected schools in Peninsular Malaysia.
Rural to Urban Students Placement Scholarship
The programme started in 1990 to provide learning opportunities for students from rural areas placed in urban secondary schools for admission to form one. In 2025, 81 students were sponsored under this programme. These students attend MRSM Kota Kinabalu and SM Sains Sabah.
1976-Now
Sabah/Sarawak Students Exchange Scholarship
The objectives of this programme are more focused on national integration through bilateral relationship built by the Group and Yayasan Sarawak in 1976. Yayasan Sarawak fully sponsors Sabah students sent to Sarawak, while Sarawak students sent to study in Sabah are fully sponsored by the Group. In 2025, 40 students were sponsored under this programme in five selected schools in Sabah.
1983-Now
Peninsular Malaysia Secondary School Bursary
This programme was started in 1983. Initially, it was bursary assistance to students who continue their studies privately in Peninsular Malaysia. This programme is still ongoing and covers students who attend private religious schools, including in Sabah and Sarawak. The rate given is RM1,000 to RM3,000 per student per year. In 2025, more than 82 students were sponsored under this programme.
SECONDARY SCHOOL SCHOLARSHIP/BURSARY (Expenditure in 2025)
1.63 Million
SECONDARY SCHOOL SCHOLARSHIP/BURSARY
(Number of Active Students, 2025)
22 Higher Education Programmes
SCHOLARSHIPS/BURSARIES
Scholarships and bursaries provide financial assistance to students taking priority courses. The programmes are as follows:
Local Scholarships
The programme began in 1973 for students accepted into any Public Institutions of Higher Learning (IPTA) in the country without sponsorship. Sponsorships, however, have been restricted to critical courses since 2003.
Private Institutions of Higher Learning (IPTS) Scholarship
To assist underprivileged students who are eligible but do not receive a place in Public Institutions of Higher Learning (IPTA) to continue their studies at recognised Private Institutions of Higher Learning (IPTS) throughout the country.
Germany Engineering
This scholarship is given to engineering students studying in Germany, a collaboration with the Universiti Malaysia Pahang.
KTYS Scholarship/Bursary
The Kolej Teknologi Yayasan Sabah (KTYS) Scholarship/ Bursary comprises three programmes.
•The KTYS Bursary (Certificate)
•KTYS - Universiti Malaysia Pahang (UMPSA) Scholarship (Foundation)
•KTYS - Islamic Studies Scholarship is designated for students pursuing Diploma studies in Islamic Studies at Kolej Teknologi Yayasan Sabah (KTYS).
Foundation in Science Scholarship – KTYS/UMPS is intended for students undertaking the Foundation in Science programme at Kolej Teknologi Yayasan Sabah.
Excellence Rural Students Scholarship (BCPLB)
BCPLB is a new programme designed by the Group to strengthen rural education and close the education gap between urban and rural areas in the State. The programme aims to help improve the level of education, increase qualified and skilled employment, and instil good values in parents to develop a knowledgeable and caring society, particularly among the B40 Group.
2019-Now
University College Sabah Foundation (UCSF) Scholarship
UCSF was given a special quota for scholarship sponsorship for specific studies/courses since 2019.
Among the scholarships offered by University College Sabah Foundation (UCSF) are as follows: Architecture Scholarship is intended for students pursuing Diploma and Bachelor’s Degree programmes in Architecture at University College Sabah Foundation (UCSF).
1977-Now
ASEAN/Middle East Scholarship Programme
In 1977, this programme was initiated to send students to the Middle East and ASEAN countries. However, the expenditure for this programme was recorded under the Overseas Programme from 1977 to 2004.
2009-Now
Ulum Islamiah Scholarship
The programme was the brainchild of the Malaysian Embassy in Egypt, which sought the Group’s assistance in sponsoring potential Sabah students selected to pursue the Ulum Islamiah programme at Al-Azhar University in Egypt. The programme aims to produce a group of versatile scholars who master all branches of knowledge to become scholars who can withstand the globalisation era, which is increasingly destroying family institutions and noble values.
2015-Now
2022-Now
Staff Scholarship
This scholarship is given to the staff of the Group to pursue their studies.
Early Childhood Scholarship (Diploma)
This programme is for Kolej Teknologi Yayasan Sabah students taking diplomas in Early Childhood courses.
Polytechnic Bursary
The primary goal is to assist eligible students in accordance with the Group’s policies and guidelines.
UiTM Bursary
It began in 1973 to assist Sabah students studying at YS-ITM. The primary goal is to improve the living conditions of the people of Sabah through education.
Master’s Scholarship in Computer Science and Informatics – YS/UMS
This scholarship is awarded to students pursuing master’s-level postgraduate studies in Computer Science and Informatics at the University of Malaysia Sabah (UMS).
Students enrolled in this master’s programme are generally those who have previously completed their Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Science and Informatics at UMS as part of an academic progression pathway.
Veterinary Medicine Scholarship
This scholarship is designated for students undertaking undergraduate studies in Veterinary Medicine at Universiti Malaysia Kelantan (UMK).
Local Specialist Scholarship Programme
This scholarship is intended for students pursuing postgraduate studies at the Master’s and Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) levels at public higher education institutions (IPTA).
2025-Now
Russia Medical Scholarship
This scholarship is offered to students pursuing studies in the field of Medicine at Kursk State Medical University, Russia. Applicants are required to obtain a minimum CGPA of 3.5 in the Matriculation examination.
2024-Now
Yayasan Sabah and Albukhary International University (AIU) Collaborative Scholarship
This scholarship provides a one-off return flight ticket upon completion of studies for students pursuing their studies at Albukhary International University (AIU). Student interview sessions are conducted by the AIU management across designated zones, with Yayasan Sabah serving as the secretariat.
2025-Now
Judicial
Practice and Syariah Legal Practice Scholarship
This scholarship is specifically offered to graduates holding a Bachelor of Laws degree who have obtained a minimum CGPA of 3.00 as part of the eligibility requirements to qualify as Syariah legal practitioners in the Syariah courts of Sabah. The programme is a collaborative initiative between Universiti Sains Islam Malaysia (USIM) and UMS.
2,554 Students
Sabah State Scholarship Award of Excellence
The Sabah State Scholarship Award of Excellence (ABCNS) is a recognition by the State Government through the Group to students who have achieved outstanding results in the Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia (SPM) examination. This award recognises their accomplishments and encourages other students to achieve excellent results in their SPM examinations. The first group of nine best SPM and ten best Sijil Tinggi Persekolahan Malaysia (STPM) students received the award in 1990. ABCNS has benefited 833 students between 1990 and 2025, at the cost of RM141.29 million. The scholarship was offered to the top 40 SPM students in 2025. Up until 2025, 79 students completed this studies with First Class grades.
Study Loan
2007-Now
Egypt Medical Scholarship
The programme aims to encourage more capable Sabah students to pursue medical studies. Due to space constraints, many students could not enrol in Public Institutions of Higher Learning (IPTA). The Sabah Public Service Department (JPAN) and the Zakat Centre have collaborated on this programme.
Sabah State Education Fund (TPNS)
Themed “Sponsorship Opportunities for All”, TPNS is an initiative to enhance the education agenda in Sabah. The education fund which was launched on 2 June 2022 aims to assist underprivileged students, especially those from B40 households, to pursue tertiary education. It was established as an initiative under the Yayasan Sabah Group Strategic Transformation Plan 2015-2024 to provide more sponsorship opportunities to Sabahans who successfully entered higher learning institutions.
The Group extends study loan facilities to students who are not beneficiaries of programmes. These loans are structured based on the Qard al-Hasan principle, ensuring no profit orientation, aligned with the Group’s mandate to advance educational development within the state.
Sabah State Education Fund (TPNS) 2022 - 2025
TOTAL NUMBER OF STUDENTS
15,629 students
Million
Million
EDUCATION LOAN COLLECTION
EDUCATION LOAN COLLECTION
Moving Forward
Digital Transformation of Education Loan Collection Operations
Implement digitalisation initiatives to the enhance efficiency, monitoring, and overall effectiveness of education loan collection processes.
Strengthening the Loan Collection Management Structure
Enhance proactive measures at both the pre-loan disbursement and pre-loan repayment stages, including Financial Literacy Briefings, Loanees Pledge Initiatives, and Loanees Engagement Sessions.
Implementation of Enhanced Loan Agreement Terms and Conditions
Introduce improved terms and conditions for all new loanees to increase recoverability rate and reduce loan default cases.
Structured Collection Process for Defaulting Loanees
Implement and more systematic collection procedures and action plans specifically for defaulting loanees, balancing social responsibility considerations with loanees accountability.
Enhancement of Yayasan Sabah Loan Policy
Review and improve the Yayasan Sabah loan awarding policy to minimise the risk of chronic loan default.
Year
Amount (RM)
1974-1986 339,136.32
1987-1990 1,634,373.58
1991 564,820.02
1992 759,170.54
1993 1,203,932.63
1994 1,200,632.59
1995 1,504,097.12
1996 1,364,236.09
1997 2,056,991.50
1998 1,856,659.45
1999 1,844,806.16
2000 2,123,019.27
2001 2,800,981.66
2002 2,960,717.00
2003 2,849,107.73
2004 3,169,856.63
2005 3,565,422.60
2006 3,897,505.26
2007 4,633,186.83
2008 5,062,409.96
2009 4,853,046.32
2010 5,541,864.94
2011 5,506,905.62
2012 5,252,867.39
2013 4,374,654.11
2014 4,270,891.86
2015 3,058,005.04
2016 3,781,561.82
2017 4,049,488.59
2018 3,423,069.45
2019 4,398,037.02
2020 2,933,418.30
2021 5,423,524.95
2022 5,836,047.78
2023 6,661,760.10
2024 6,624,398.14
2025 8,035,399.96
Total 129,416,004.33
7,000,000.00 8
Loan Collection (1974-2025)
KOLEJ TEKNOLOGI YAYASAN SABAH
SKILLS & TECHNOLOGY PROGRAMMES
KTYS is committed to fostering human capital development that aligns with the State Government's goals. The college trains, educates, and equips individuals to meet industry demands. KTYS also supports and enhances the Group's initiatives to improve people's quality of life through education and continuous learning programmes, specifically in Technical Vocational Education and Training (TVET).
UNIVERSITY COLLEGE SABAH FOUNDATION
In July 2025, University College Sabah Foundation (UCSF) achieved its highest-ever enrolment, surpassing 1,100 active students in its diploma and bachelor's degree programmes, marking a significant milestone. The University also introduced three academic programmes: the Master of Business Administration, the Bachelor of Science in Architecture with Honours, and the Foundation in Science, expanding its academic offerings. Additionally, over 900 participants benefited from training and short courses conducted through the Teaching and Learning Factory and the Lifelong Learning Unit, underscoring UCSF's commitment to continuous learning.
UCSF is dedicated to academic excellence and recognises Sabah's unique higher education needs. It aims to meet these needs by offering strategic programmes and fostering an inclusive environment that empowers students to succeed. As a 21st-century university, UCSF focuses on academic achievement and nurturing responsible citizens who contribute to society, educating students on the importance of various stakeholders in reaching global goals, like the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) for 2030.
UCSF is Sabah's 21st-century green model boutique university, complementing and supporting the evolving higher education of the state.
Master of Business Administration
(N/0414/7/0203)(PA17623)(08/29)
1 year (Fulltime) 2 years (Part time)
Bachelor of Hospitality and Tourism Management (Honours)
(R2//1088/6/0005)(FA5524)(11/30) 3 years
Bachelor of Entrepreneurship (Honours)
(R2/0114/6/0068)(FA3519)(01/29)
3 years
Diploma in Animation
(R2/0211/4/0157)(FA5222)(04/30) 2 years 6 months
2025
Bachelor of Science in Architecture with Honours (N/0731/6/0021)(PA18400)(08/30) 3 years
Bachelor of Accountancy (Honours)
(R2/0411/6/0048)(FA3476)(06/31)
3 years 1 month
Bachelor of Science (Honours) Sustainable Resource Management and Conservation (R2/0521/6/0007)(FA5499()11/30) 3 years
Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Development Studies with Media Communication
(R2/0314/6/0001)(FA8010)(07/31) 3 years
Bachelor of Business Administration (Hons)
(R2/0414/6/0080)(FA3558)(01/29) 3 years
Diploma in Visual Arts and Design
(R2/0211/4/0181)(FA8181)(09/31) 2 years 4 months
Diploma in Screen Arts
(R2/0216/4/0005)(FA5514)()10/30 2 years 6 months
Diploma in Hotel Management
(R2/1013/4/0138)(FA5498)(04/30)
2 years 6 months
Diploma in Accounting (R2/0411/0172)(FA5525)(10/30)
2 years 6 months
Diploma in Tourism Management (R2/1015/4/0050)(FA1920)(08/28)
2 years 4 months
Foundation in Science (N/0011/3/0214)(PA18098)(03/30) 1 year
Diploma in Media Studies (R2/0323/4/0045)(FA8182)(0931) 2 years 6 months
Diploma in Business Management (R2/0414/4/0383)(FA7190)(10/30)
2 years 6 months
New Co-Pintar Programmes
2025
Community Outreach Programmes & Special Programme for Natives of Sabah - related to Tourism, Innovation, Technology, Nature, Arts and Design) by Teaching and Learning Factory.
Community Outreach –Basic Botanical Batik Textile Production (Advance 20 participants
Community OutreachData Entry using Microsoft Excel & Word 23 participants
Community Outreach –Wood Souvenir Making Course 18 participants
Community Outreach –Basic Mobilegraphy Course 81 participants
Community Outreach –Sustainable Agriculture (Hydroponic) 29 participants
Community Outreach –Basic Packaging Design for Beginners 24 participants
Community Outreach –Basic Canva Course 24 participants
Community Outreach –English for Business Communication (CS) 18 participants
Community Outreach –Basic Polymer Clay Accessory Production Course 94 participants
Community Outreach –Basic Videography Course 100 participants
Special Programme for Natives of Sabah –Basic Photography Course 27 participants
Community Outreach –Aerial Photography Handling Course 21 participants
Special Programme for Natives of SabahBasic Botanical Batik Textile Production 7 participants
Special Programme for Natives of Sabah –Basic Catan Visual Course 4 participants
Short-Term Courses, Workshops/Talks & Training
Short-term courses Under Life Long Learning Unit.
English for Hoteliers 25 participants
Professional Table Service: Setting, Presentation & Interaction
5 participants
MS Excel (Intermediate) 16 participants
11
Fundamental of Corporate Hospitality
5 participants
Smart Inventory Management: Tracking Stock & Expiry Control 5 participants
Refreshment Preparation Skills
5 participants
MS Powerpoint (Intermediate) 16 participants
Workshops/Talks - Professional Development Courses (Internal Training) by the Human Resource Department, Life Long Learning Unit and Centre for Development Studies.
Smart PLS Workshop 1.0 25 participants
Special Sharing by VC: Young Academics & Researchers by Datuk Dr. Rafiq Idris 56 participants
English Speaking with Confidence (for academicians)
48 participants
AI For Employee-Learn AI For Daily Work, Simple, Practical & Powerful
31 participants
Moving Forward
UCSF will strengthen its research, publication, and intellectual discourse activities by collaborating closely with various stakeholders, as demonstrated by recent publications, collaborative research projects, and public forums hosted. To contribute meaningfully to society, UCSF will further expand its community outreach initiatives, especially through training and capacity-building programmes in the coming years, which have already benefited numerous local organisations and professionals.
The university has established joint research projects and faculty exchanges with ASEAN institutions, and successfully organised regional academic seminars or activities, further strengthening its internationalisation agenda through knowledge exchange and expanded educational opportunities.
As the only state-owned university college in Sabah, UCSF carries an important mandate to provide quality higher education services to the people of the state and contribute to Sabah’s broader socio-economic development. Notable achievements include implementing green campus initiatives, developing industry-relevant academic programs, and establishing community partnerships.
TUN HAJI MOHD. FUAD STEPHENS BORNEO RESEARCH LIBRARY
The library was established to honour the efforts of the former Head of State, Tun Haji Mohd. Fuad Stephens, in enhancing the quality of life for all Malaysians in Sabah, particularly in education and knowledge. It was officially opened on 6 June 1980, by the then Head of State, Tun Haji Mohd. Adnan Robert.
The research library specialises in Borneorelated topics and disciplines, offering resources tailored to the needs of researchers and academicians. It is accessible to the public and supports various programmes, projects, and interests within the Group.
In addition, the library provides training sessions and consultations to government agencies and schools on setting up and managing libraries. Since its establishment, it has been an active member of the Librarians Association of Malaysia and a pioneering member of k@Borneo since 2002.
Roles & Functions
The Library’s general role and function is to collect, organise, preserve and provide access to information and knowledge reserve for education and research.
The Gallery was officially opened on 10 May 2006 as an earnest effort to share the life story and contributions of the late Tun Datu Haji Mustapha bin Datu Harun, who was the Father of Independence of Sabah. It serves as a source of information and reference on the late Tun Datu Haji Mustapha’s life history.
The Gallery features impactful graphic panels, audio-visual technologies and artefacts. It chronicles the late Tun Datu Haji Mustapha bin Datu Harun’s life, from humble beginnings to his illustrious days as Sabah’s former Head of State and Chief Minister. It gives visitors a glimpse into his triumphs and tribulations, with detailed descriptions accompanying the images.
The Gallery is open Monday through Friday, from 8.30 a.m. to 4.55 p.m., except on public holidays.
Collection & Information Development Unit
Functions
Acquisitions
Serials Indexing
Information & Documentation Services Unit
Inter-library loan
References/ inquiries
Library orientation
Tun Mustapha Gallery
Type of Collections
Library services
Documentation
Functions
Collaboration/ Partnership
General Collection
Borneo Collection
Newspaper Clippings Collection
Library Circulation
Library promotions
OPAC
Library facilities
Reference Collection Multimedia Collection Yayasan Sabah Group Archives
Bound Newspaper Collection World Bank Collection
Articles
109,705
Reorganization of General Collection Shelving
Team Selection: Bowling
Collection Collaboration
Work Visit to Imbak Mini Library
Work Visit to Danum Mini Library
eSport Selection PESAYA
In-House Training 1/2025: Shelf Reading
Team Selection: Badminton
In-House Training 2/2025: Colour & Image
Jom Baca (Sekolah Rendah Islam Kota Kinabalu, Alamesra)
Kasih Ramadan Programme: Rumah Anak Yatim & Asnaf As Sakinah (Lok Kawi)
Work Visit to Maliau Mini Library
PESAYA Kelantan
KOHA Load Test
Sukan MAKSAK
Visit from SMK Tansau
Infohunt & Visit from SAR Alamesra
PKAB Knowledge Exploration Visitors
Visit from Kolej Tahfiz
Sains Nurul Aman Yayasan Islam Kelantan
In-House Training 3/2025: MyHR
Selection Sukan Muhibbah eSportTEKKEN & Mobile Legends
Visit from SMK Kunak
Visit from Asrama SMK Datuk Panglima Abdullah, Semporna
Mini Jejak Ilmu 2
In-House Training 4/2025: KOHA
from
Visit from SK Pengalat Besar, Papar
Mini Jejak Ilmu 1
Sukan Muhibbah
Visit
SK Klias, Beaufort
Library Expediture for 2025
In 2025, an allocation of RM122,088.00 was approved for the library. Out of that total, RM116,155.82 or 95.14% was spent on implementing various programmes and activities, including the library’s administrative management costs.
Key Financial Breakdown
- Approved Allocation: RM122,088.00
- Total Expenditure:RM166,155.82
- Utilisation Rate: 95.14%
- Remaining Balance: RM5,932.18
This high utilisation rate indicates successful project menagement and active activities for the year.
Moving Forward
As·pire 50|50 - 2021-2026 Initiative
The Library first function was to provide exhausive and wide ranging general research and academic resources in line with its role as a research library. In 1994 though, the main function of the Library was shifted to focus more on Borneo related resources, as reflected in the change of name from Tun Haji Mohd. Fuad Stephen Research Library to Tun Haji Mohd. Fuad Stephen Borneo Research Library. Yet the process of selecting references materials remains the same and no change to the focus of collection development from 1980-2013.
To put more emphasis on Borneo related research materials As·pire 50|50 was formulated in 2021 to address this issue.
The As·pire 50|50 is crafted to establish strategic, transparent and easily comprehensible quantitative direction for the Tun Haji Mohd. Fuad Stephens Borneo Research Library. It stands apart from existing statements outlining the Library’s objectives or roles. The role of the As·pire 50|50 is to solely focus on the following:
1. The Borneo collection within the Library should constitute a minimum of 50% of the overall total of all reference materials in the Library.
2. The floor space dedicated to housing all reference collections in the Library should allocate a minimum of 50% for the Borneo Collection.
3. A minimum of 50% of all reference materials within the Library should be in digital format.
4. At least 50% of the monograph material purchase budget should be earmarked for the acquisition of Borneo reference materials.
It is focused exclusively on these strategic goals, separate from broader statements of the library’s mission or roles. The initiative is designed to be temporary and will conclude once all its objectives, as outlined in As·pire 50|50 Initiative 2021-2026 Roadmap, have been met.
Interior Facilities Enhancement
The library will put forward a proposal to upgrade and enhance the library interior design, as the facility has remained largely unchanged since 1980. This modernization initiative aims to create spaces that reflect contemporary standards and support the library’s evolving mission, integrating improved aesthetics, better ergonomics, modern technology and collaborative study zones to serve users such as researchers, KTYS/UCSF students and public in general more effectively. The interior enhancement should be Borneo-centric as per the role of Tun Haji Mohd. Fuad Stephens Borneo Research Library. The enhancement of the library’s physical spaces will strengthen its role as an important Borneo related research and learning centre, creating an environment that reflects halatuju of Yayasan Sabah and responds contemporary expectation for quality library facilities and services.
Community Capacities Enhancing Rural
SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMMES
Under the supervision of the Chief Coordinator of the Zone Administration’s Office, six Yayasan Sabah zone offices namely, West Coast Zone (South) - Kota Kinabalu, West Coast Zone (North) - Kota Marudu, East Coast Zone (South) - Tawau, East Coast Zone (North) - Sandakan, Interior Zone (South) - Beaufort, and Interior Zone (North) - Keningau implement the core and support programmes.
The core programme comprises the Intellectual and Mind, Sociocultural, and Socioeconomic domains. The support programme includes the Yayasan Sabah Secondary Scholarship, Yayasan Sabah District Hostel, Yayasan Sabah with the People Programme, Iftar Programme, Community Craft Programme, and disaster relief aid (HouseFire/Flood Victims).
West Coast Zone (South)
West Coast Zone (North)
East Coast Zone (South)
East Coast Zone (North)
Interior Zone (South)
Interior Zone (North)
TUNKU
Core Programmes
Programme
Beneficiary
Beneficiaries Expenditure
East Coast Zone (North) - Sandakan
Interior Zone (North) - Keningau
Interior Zone (South) - Beaufort
West Coast Zone (South) - Kota Kinabalu
West Coast Zone (North) - Kota Marudu
East Coast Zone (South) - Tawau
East Coast Zone (North) - Sandakan
Interior Zone (North) - Keningau
West Coast Zone (North) - Kota Marudu
East Coast Zone (South) - Tawau
Interior Zone (South) - Beaufort
West Coast Zone (South) - Kota Kinabalu
East Coast Zone (North) - Sandakan
Interior Zone (North) - Keningau
West Coast Zone (North) - Kota Marudu
East Coast Zone (South) - Tawau
Interior Zone (South) - Beaufort
West Coast Zone (South) - Kota Kinabalu
Support Programmes
Yayasan Sabah Secondary Assistance
Programme
Beneficiary
Beneficiaries
Expenditure
East Coast Zone (North) - Sandakan
Interior Zone (North) - Keningau
West Coast Zone (North) - Kota Marudu
East Coast Zone (South) - Tawau
Interior Zone (South) - Beaufort
West Coast Zone (South) - Kota Kinabalu
East Coast Zone (North) - Sandakan
Interior Zone (North) - Keningau
West Coast Zone (North) - Kota Marudu
East Coast Zone (South) - Tawau
Interior Zone (South) - Beaufort
West Coast Zone (South) - Kota Kinabalu
Beneficiaries
Programme
Beneficiary
Expenditure
East Coast Zone (North) - Sandakan
Interior Zone (North) - Keningau
West Coast Zone (North) - Kota Marudu
East Coast Zone (South) - Tawau
Interior Zone (South) - Beaufort
West Coast Zone (South) - Kota Kinabalu
Beneficiaries
Programme
Beneficiary
Expenditure
Yayasan Sabah District Hostel
Interior Zone (South) - Beaufort
Interior Zone (North) - Keningau
Beneficiaries
Programme
Beneficiary
Expenditure
East Coast Zone (North) - Sandakan
Interior Zone (North) - Keningau
West Coast Zone (North) - Kota Marudu
East Coast Zone (South) - Tawau
Interior Zone (South) - Beaufort
West Coast Zone (South) - Kota Kinabalu
Yayasan Sabah Special Assistance Scheme Programme 2025
Beneficiaries
Programme
Beneficiary
Expenditure
East Coast Zone (North) - Sandakan
Interior Zone (North) - Keningau
West Coast Zone (North) - Kota Marudu
East Coast Zone (South) - Tawau
Interior Zone (South) - Beaufort
West Coast Zone (South) - Kota Kinabalu
Beneficiaries
Programme
Beneficiary
Expenditure
Roadshow Yayasan Sabah Bersama Rakyat (YSBR)
9 November 2025 @ Kilapi Square, Kg. Rampayan Laut, Kota Belud.
18 October 2025 @ Kota Marudu District Community Field Pavilion.
29 September 2025 @ Tawau Community Hall.
29 August 2025 @ Pinsompuruan Square, Tambunan.
MOVING FORWARD
We are focused on executing programmes that deliver tangible results for our target groups. By prioritising strategic planning, we provide inclusive intellectual and socioeconomics opportunities for all age groups and backgrounds.
Our goal is simple: to improve local standards and foster a collaborative ecosystem between the Group and the communities we serve.
Rural Integrated Craft Heritage Programme (RICH)
Department of Skills Development, Ministry of Human Resources
Sabah Art Gallery
Wood Industry Skills Development Centre (WISDEC) MTIB
Department of Broadcasting Malaysia, Sabah
Academy of Arts & Creative Technology (ASTiF) Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS)
Sri Pelancongan Sabah
Benua Brutti Sdn. Bhd
Keningau Tourism and Cultural Association
Raw Material Cultivation Programme - Bamboo & Rattan
Research Division, Yayasan Sabah Group
Faculty of Tropical Forestry, Universiti Malaysia Sabah
Forestry Division, Yayasan Sabah Group
Sabah Forestry Department
Department Of Agriculture Sabah
Implementation Coordination Unit (ICU), Prime Minister’s Department
Rural Integrated Craft Heritage (RICH) Programme
Raw Material Cultivation Programme - Bamboo & Rattan
The RICH programme emphasises entrepreneurship development to increase the competitiveness of former Craft Training Programme (Program Latihan Kraftangan, PLK) trainees in handicraft production.
16 programmes
197 participants
RM1.3 million
The main programmes under the RICH Programme are:
1. Community Craft Programme
• Implemented in collaboration with the zone offices, Yayasan Sabah Group.
• The program focuses on innovation and contemporary product design, handicraft promotion and sales programmes, as well as fundraising programmes.
• This programme focuses on contemporary product design and innovation, showcasing forest-based products, and providing expert services to enhance skills, soft skills, and financial management in collaboration with strategic partners.
3. Technology and Design Arena Stage
• Digital Textile Crafts, Textile Sewing Crafts, Bag Sewing Crafts, Batik Canting Crafts and Weaving & Beading Crafts.
• This programme focuses on contemporary product design and innovation, fashion and textile product modelling, and expert services in skills enhancement, soft skills, and financial management, in collaboration with strategic partners.
4. Craftpreneur Programme
• This programme consists of the Start-Up Funding Programme and the Fundraising Programme.
• The Start-Up Funding Programme provides initial capital to three communities and to eight RICH participants identified as having the potential to become craft entrepreneurs.
• This programme aims to enable selected entrepreneurs to learn business management, including exposure to marketing techniques such as e-marketing, packaging, pricing, and promotion, as well as soft skillscommunication and customer negotiation - while also enhancing their skills in the craft fields they are involved in.
6. Exhibition, Promotion and Sales Programme
• This programme serves as a platform for entrepreneurs to generate income, as a marketing medium, and to build social networks with other entrepreneurs and enhance skills in buying and selling.
6. Pusat Kraftangan Sabah Outreach Programme
• This programme focuses on transferring craft-making skills and knowledge from former PLK and RICH participants to their respective communities.
Implemented Programme
Total of Trainees
Craftpreneur Programme 12 participants (6%)
Pusat Kraftangan Sabah Programme Outreach 19 participants (10%)
RAW MATERIAL PLANTING PROGRAMME (PPBM) – Bamboo & Rattan
PPBM aims to plant 15,012 bamboo and rattan plants in the Yayasan Sabah Concession, Class II Forest Reserve of Sg. Pinangah, FMU15, Sook district, covering 200 acres.
Budget
Allocation
RM740,000
Located in Yayasan Sabah's concession land, covering an area of 200 acres 10 Programmes 32 Participants
i. Raw Material Cultivation
PPBM aims to plant 15,012 bamboo and rattan plants in the Yayasan Sabah Concession, Class II Forest Reserve of Sg. Pinangah, FMU15, Sook Subdistrict, covering 200 acres. Training Programme (PPBM)
iii. Research and Development
R&D in bamboo and rattan plantations in collaboration with research agencies such as UMS and the Research Division of Yayasan Sabah Group. Programme (R&D)
v. Raw Materials, Equipment
This is one of the main programmes, as the development of plantations at project sites is considered a physical performance metric and is reported to ICU, JPM, the Forestry Department, and others. and Site Maintenance
ii. Technical Development
This programme focuses on collaborating with strategic partners to provide expert services, soft skills training, and educational study visits. Programme (PPT)
iv. Entrepreneurship
This programme is an exhibition, promotion, and sales programme aimed at providing a platform for entrepreneurs to generate income, serve as a marketing medium, build social networks with other entrepreneurs, and enhance skills in buying and selling. Development Programme
Total of Programmes
27 Programmes
ACHIEVEMENTS IN 2025
Exhibition, Promotion & Sales Programme
Participation of the Pusat Kraftangan Sabah in prestigious programmes:
Fashion showcase of the Exclusive Batik Collection & Digital Prints during the Small And Medium Enterprises (SMEs) 2025 Carnival, Keningau Zone X The Crocker Range Festival Season 8, from 26–29 June 2025.
Handicraft Promotion and Sales Programme during the Borneo Flora Festival in Labuan, 26–30 July 2025.
The Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Environment of Sabah State organised the Sabah Fest Extravaganza 2025, a programme that promotes and sells handicrafts. The event will involve various entrepreneurs and handicraft communities from several zones across Sabah on 27 to 28 September 2025.
Handicraft Product Orders
High-value orders received from government agencies by entrepreneurs under the guidance of the Pusat Kraftangan Sabah:
Batik sewing and digital textiles for the Sabah Ministry of Rural Development for District Officers during the 2025 Sabah District Officers Conference, valued at RM22,210.00 in September 2025, involving five batik entrepreneurs from Pusat Kraftangan Sabah.
Order for the production of corporate gifts made from kelarai weaving and beads by Tourism Malaysia, valued at RM49,900.00, awarded to Secret Bamboo under Pusat Kraftangan Sabah entrepreneur Puan Shazanawati binti Kulinting, involving 18 handicraft entrepreneurs guided by the Pusat Kraftangan Sabah programme.
Art Exhibition and Competition
Participation of entrepreneurs guided by the Pusat Kraftangan Sabah in prestigious art exhibitions and competitions:
Participation of eleven works by PKAN participants in the “Jendela” Invitational Exhibition, 32nd edition, organised by the Sabah Art Gallery from June to August 2025.
PKS Start-Up Fund Entrepreneur 2025, Puan Silessiah binti Julianus, emerged as Runner-Up in the Corporate Clothing Design Competition with Ethnic Motifs at the Momogun Carnival in conjunction with World Indigenous Peoples Day 2025 on 20 September 2025.
Participation of three works by participants from the Pusat Kraftangan Sabah in the 40th Sabah State Annual Selected Works Competition 2025
Guided entrepreneur from Pusat Kraftangan Sabah, Puan Shazanawati binti Kulinting, won second place in the Traditional Weaving Competition at the Perusahaan Mikro, Kecil dan Sederhana (PMKS) 2025 Carnival, Keningau Zone X The Crocker Range Festival Season 8, from 22 - 29 June 2025.
Entrepreneurship Assistance
8 Individual Fund Recipients
Certification Recognition
3
10 people
Malaysian Skill Certificate Level 3 RM 40,000
RM 33,800 4 Associations Fund Recipients
Awards and Recognition
Founder of Secret Bamboo Legacy, Puan Shazanawati binti Kulinting, was awarded the Handicraft Entrepreneur Award during the 2025 Keningau District Kaamatan Festival.
2
9 people
Malaysian Skill Certificate Level 2
Recipient of the Pusat Kraftangan Sabah Scale-Up Fund 2019 and Ribu-Ribu Weaving Craft Entrepreneur, Puan Farni Loboi was awarded the Title of Adiguru Weaving Craft Master by Malaysian Handicraft on 22 November 2025
A total of 12 artisans and handicraft entrepreneurs received the Yayasan Sabah Group 2025 Potential Handicraft Entrepreneur Award in conjunction with the Yayasan Sabah with the People Roadshow 2025 as encouragement and appreciation for their efforts to develop local handicrafts.
Visits
and Courtesy Calls
Courtesy Visit by the Deputy Minister of Works of Malaysia, Ministry of Works Malaysia, Datuk Seri Haji Ahmad bin Maslan, along with his delegation on 3 July 2025.
Visit by the Director of Tourism Malaysia Sabah on 22 April 2025.
Visit by the Implementation Coordination Unit (ICU), Prime Minister’s Department on 20 May 2025.
Visit by the Sabah and Sarawak Affairs Division (BHESS), Prime Minister’s Department on 21 May 2025.
Visit by a group of tourists from Australia Exotica Borneo Travel & Tour on 18 June 2025.
Courtesy visit by the wife of Laksamana Muda Datuk Yusne bin Mokhtar, Commander of Naval Region 2 (Royal Malaysian Navy), Datin Norhayati binti Jamaluddin, along with her delegation, on 26 June 2025.
of
Collaborations with Agencies
Henry Gurney School in Keningau invited Pusat Kraftangan Sabah to serve as the Training Provider for the Rattan Basket Weaving Course module. This course was conducted by Mr. Thomas Joseph, Rattan Weaving Craft Instructor, together with Mr. Saiful Epas, Bamboo Weaving Entrepreneur from the Pusat Kraftangan Sabah on 12 - 14 February 2025.
The Epoxy & Resin Workshop at the Pusat Kraftangan Sabah also conducted a short course on making fridge magnets and epoxy keychains for the Community-Based Rehabilitation Organisation (PPDK) Kg. Merampong, Keningau on 3 - 4 September 2025.
The Academy of Arts and Creative Technology (ASTIF), Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS), organised the “Pancawarna Batik” Program at Pusat Kraftangan Sabah. In this program, students were exposed to the canting batik-making process by the canting batik instructor from the Sabah Craft Centre, Puan Nurul Izahfarahanah binti Tangah, along with the 2025 PKAN participants. This programme marks the second year of collaboration with the Pusat Kraftangan Sabah on 18 - 20 June 2025.
Signing a Memorandum of Understanding between the Sarawak Timber Industry Development Corporation and Yayasan Sabah Group. This collaboration establishes a framework for joint efforts to develop the bamboo plantation industry implemented by Yayasan Sabah Group through the Pusat Kraftangan Sabah under the Bamboo and Rattan Raw Materials Planting Programme on 11 November 2025.
Collaboration between the Pusat Kraftangan Sabah, Benua Brutti Sdn. Bhd., and the Sabah Art Gallery in organising “Nite Picnic @ Kulung” and “Tamu Dulu-Dulu 2.0” at the Sabah Art Gallery grounds, Kota Kinabalu, held from 29–31 August 2025.
Courtesy visit by the Deputy Minister
Communications & Multimedia, Ministry of Communications & Multimedia, Puan Teo Nie Ching, along with her delegation on 21 July 2025.
MOVING FORWARD
Number of PKAN participants staying at PKS Hostel in 2025
Total Non-Resident Guests
Moving forward, the Pusat Kraftangan Sabah will continue to strengthen its role as a centre for the development of Sabah’s ethnic heritage crafts and further enhance skill training and entrepreneurship development programs within the handicraft industry.
Rural Integrated Craft Heritage Programme (RICH)
• RICH will continue to empower entrepreneurs guided by the Pusat Kraftangan Sabah by providing mentorship focused on holistic handicraft entrepreneurship development, encompassing technical skills, product innovation, branding, packaging, digital marketing, and business management.
• RICH will also continue to encourage and ensure that eligible entrepreneurs obtain certification from relevant certifying agencies, enabling them to gain recognition in their respective fields and become more competitive in the handicraft industry.
• RICH will continue to support entrepreneurs guided by the Pusat Kraftangan Sabah and act as a facilitator/liaison for them through funding assistance, marketing, and order placements.
• RICH will continue to expand strategic collaboration networks with agencies and strategic partners to enhance the quality of skill training and entrepreneurship programs at the Pusat Kraftangan Sabah, ultimately enabling it to become an agency capable of certifying its participants.
• RICH will also expand its reach to communities that operate handicraft enterprises and elevate these communities as RICH host communities.
Raw Material Cultivation Programme (PPBM) – Bamboo & Rattan
• PPBM will develop entrepreneurs in the bamboo and rattan industry through mentorship covering systematic and sustainable harvesting, raw material processing, product manufacturing, and business management.
• To further strengthen the implementation of PPBM, collaboration between PUSAKA, MTIB and Pusat Kraftangan Sabah, formalised through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), will continue to be actively pursued, including the import of bamboo seedlings from PUSAKA, transfer of expertise and technology, industrial training, and other initiatives.
• PPBM will also strengthen collaboration networks with agencies and strategic partners to implement the program and enhance the quality of skill and entrepreneurship training at the Sabah Craft Centre, as well as the quality of raw materials.
• PPBM will ensure its implementation aligns with the Malaysian Bamboo Industry Development Action Plan (2021–2030) and other government initiatives.
• PPBM will continue to apply sound bamboo and rattan plantation management practices to ensure satisfactory growth and enable harvest yields to meet targets.
• PPBM will also continue to ensure that plantation operations comply with established forestry regulations and remain free from any non-compliance.
Programme PPBM 2026
The scope of RICH programmes for 2026 includes:
• Entrepreneurship & Natural Resource Sustainability Development Program (PRO-KELESTARIA).
• Skills Development Programme(UP-SKILLS).
• Green Sustainability Programme (PRO-LESTARIH).
• Entrepreneurship Development Programme (PRO-USAHAWAN).
• Research & Development Programme (R&D).
HOSTEL BUILDING
• Pusat Kraftangan Sabah will continue to ensure that the Pusat Kraftangan Sabah’s hostel provides a safe, conducive, and comfortable environment for PKAN Sabah participants through scheduled maintenance, compliance with safety standards, and enhancement of basic facilities in line with current needs.
• PKS also ensures that the hostel building, as an infrastructure facility in the Keningau District, benefits not only PKAN Sabah participants but also the local community.
Commercial Undertakings
To achieve market growth and diversification in local and overseas markets for all ICSB products.
Innoprise Corporation Sdn. Bhd.
The contributions of the Group to the State of Sabah and its people are not limited to education and social development. It is acknowledged as a pioneer, leader, innovator, and growth facilitator in the commercial and industrial sectors.
Innoprise Corporation Sdn. Bhd. (ICSB) was incorporated in 1988 as an investment vehicle, cum management and holding company of Yayasan Sabah’s group of companies.
Its mission “To Be the Investment Vehicle of Yayasan Sabah’s group of companies for a Better Future of Malaysians in Sabah” is a clear message of its steadfast commitment to fulfilling its corporate objectives in supplementing and complementing the government’s efforts to bring socioeconomic progress to the people.
To sustain its effective role as the main generator of funds for the Group, ICSB has expanded its income generation base from traditional forestry and wood-based sectors to include other productive sectors. It has diversified into businesses such as tourism, agro plantation, as well as oil, gas and energy.
Financial
To achieve long-term profitability, asset growth and shareholders’ value while maintaining a stable and sustainable cash flow position.
Operation
To develop the downstream processing activities in the manufacturing sector and achieve high efficiency, effectiveness and productivity.
Investment
To develop an investment portfolio that is diversified vertically and horizontally, providing a desirable return on investment based principally on ICSB strategic resource advantages in timber and land, supplemented by investment in core sectors of agro-plantation, tourism, real estate, oil, gas and sustainable energy.
Human Resource
Marketing Research & Development
To achieve high efficiency, effectiveness, professionalism and integrity amongst staff.
To be a leader in forestry, conservation, agro plantation and tourism-based research and development.
6.
7.
11.
12.
13.
14.
16.
18. Norsechem (Sabah) Sdn. Bhd.
19. NRG Consortium (Sabah) Sdn. Bhd.
20. Petrosabah Sdn. Bhd.
21. Petrosab Sdn. Bhd.
22. Rakyat Berjaya Sdn. Bhd. Extraction and sale of timber logs and reafforestation of logged over areas
23. Rakyat Bersatu Sdn. Bhd. Property developer
24. Sabah Berjaya Sdn. Bhd.
25. Sabah Melale Wood Industries Sdn. Bhd.
26. Sabah Softwoods Berhad Reafforestation, oil palm plantation and chipmill operation, and contract reafforestation
27. Silam Forest Products Sdn. Bhd. Entering into oil and palm oil plantation development agreement with third parties by incorporating JV to undertake oil palm plantation development
28. Sinora Particle Board Sdn. Bhd.
29. Sunwise Crystal Sdn. Bhd.
30. Tanjung Aru Hotel Sdn. Bhd. Hotelier
31 YSG Bioscape Sdn. Bhd.
selection, invitro propagation and commercial production of forestry tree species, selection and research of ornamental plant species
34. YSG Silica Sdn. Bhd.
35. Benta Wawasan Plantations
36. Benta Edible Oil Sdn. Bhd.
37. Aquadive Discovery Sdn. Bhd.
38. YSG Timber Processing Complex Sdn. Bhd.
39. Serijaya Industries Sdn. Bhd. Log extraction contractor and operation of oil palm plantation
40. IPB Bio Energy Sdn. Bhd.
41. Inno Hydropower (B) Sdn. Bhd.
42. Inno Hydropower (T) Sdn. Bhd.
43. Inno Hydropower (P) Sdn. Bhd.
44. Inno Hydropower (M) Sdn. Bhd.
45. Nicohandal Sdn. Bhd.
46. Regional Harvest Sdn. Bhd.
47. Brumas Nature Trek & Adventure Sdn. Bhd.
2026
YAYASAN SABAH
Advancing Ecological Stewardship
The Group is currently redefining tropical forest management by embedding climate-positive strategies directly into our conservation framework, moving beyond traditional preservation to active ecosystem restoration. Our leadership is demonstrated through the rigorous stewardship of the Danum Valley, Maliau Basin, and Imbak Canyon, which serve as critical biodiversity strongholds and global centres for tropical research. These areas, alongside the ecologically sensitive Taliwas River and Silam Coast ecosystems, form a contiguous network of protected landscapes that safeguard Sabah’s unique natural heritage.
We are advancing the next generation of environmental rehabilitation through the INIKEA and INFAPRO projects within our Class I Protection Forest Reserves. These initiatives focus on long-term carbon sequestration and biodiversity recovery,
CONSERVATION AREA
1:440,000 N W E S
positioning the state as a leader in nature-based solutions. Furthermore, the Northern Kuamut Forest Carbon Project represents a shift toward valuing natural capital as a key economic and environmental driver, contributing meaningfully to national and global climate mitigation goals.
By integrating Reduced Impact Logging (RIL) techniques, we demonstrate that sustainable timber extraction in Class II Commercial Forest Reserves can coexist with high-level conservation standards, protecting the integrity of adjacent virgin jungles. Our Class VI Virgin Jungle Reserves remain strictly safeguarded, serving as vital ecological benchmarks and sanctuaries for scientific discovery. This holistic management approach ensures the continued vitality of Sabah’s forests while fostering sustainable livelihoods and maintaining the renowned environmental value of our land for future generations.
Kilometres
The zoning map (Scale 1:440,000) illustrates the strategic placement of these zones around core areas to ensure environmental stewardship and sustainable forest management.
Conservation Area Zoning: A Strategic Framework for Sabah’s Natural Heritage
Sabah Conservation
Strategic zoning initiative reinforces our commitment to safeguarding the ecological integrity of the Danum Valley, Maliau Basin, and Imbak Canyon. By implementing a multi-tiered buffer system, we ensure these globally significant landscapes remain resilient against environmental pressures while supporting regional sustainability.
Dual-Layer Protection Strategy
Our integrated management approach utilises two distinct buffer zones to balance strict preservation with socio-economic development.
Buffer Zone 1: The Protective Perimeter
• Function: Acts as a vital shield to minimise human-induced disturbances.
• Permitted Activities: Strictly limited to regulated forest research and low-impact eco-tourism initiatives.
• Goal: To preserve the core ecological integrity of Sabah’s premier conservation areas.
Yayasan
Conservation Area Zoning
Buffer Zone 2: Sustainable Development & Community Engagement
• Function: Facilitates controlled development and responsible resource management.
• Community Impact: Empowers local communities to adopt sustainable practices that enhance conservation efforts and economic well-being.
• Goal: To foster community-based conservation initiatives through a holistic management framework.
A Vision for Integrated Conservation
The synergy between these zones establishes a robust framework for long-term ecological stability. By aligning biodiversity preservation with socio-economic needs, the Group underscores its commitment to the long-term viability of Sabah’s unique natural heritage. This strategy sets a definitive precedent for integrated conservation management within tropical landscapes.
Kilometres
DANUM VALLEY MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE
The Committee’s primary role is supervising the area’s protection and development. The Committee is responsible for planning, coordinating, facilitating, monitoring and evaluating the conservation area’s management objectives.
Ministry of Tourism, Culture, and Environment
Maliau Basin’s core area looks like a giant crater bounded by a formidable slope that reaches a height of more than 1,700 meters above sea level.
Maliau Basin Conservation Area
Enchanting Lost World of Borneo
Maliau Basin Conservation Area (MBCA), called “Sabah’s Lost World,” is a Class I (Protection) Forest Reserve. The Group manages MBCA through its Conservation & Environmental Management Division (CEMD) for the Maliau Basin Management Committee (MBMC). MBCA covers 173,015 hectares and includes a core protected area of 58,840 hectares under Forest (Maliau Basin Conservation Area) Rules. Located in the Tongod District, MBCA is one of Sabah’s most important undisturbed forest ecosystems. The basin-like landscape is surrounded by steep slopes rising over 1,700 metres above sea level.
MBCA plays a major role in conservation, research, education, and eco-tourism. Research activities provide important information on the area’s flora, fauna, climate, hydrology, and geomorphology, while wildlife monitoring programmes focus on endangered species such as the Bornean Banteng and Bornean Pygmy Elephant. Environmental education programmes promote awareness and appreciation of nature, while hospitality and recreation activities support sustainable financing for conservation efforts. MBCA is also in the process of obtaining Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC) accreditation renewal.
The Maliau Basin Studies Centre (MBSC) features research, education, training, volunteerism, and ecotourism facilities. Eight research stations and ranger camps support these activities. Introducing renewable energy at MBSC minimises operating costs, priotising activities with minimal risk and maximum benefits, including financial gains for conservation.
Efforts include monitoring endangered wildlife and focusing on Bornean Banteng and Bornean Pygmy Elephant habitats, behaviours, and threats. Environmental Education (EE) cultivates appreciation of nature and generates revenue. Hospitality activities offer sustainable financing with ongoing Global Sustainable Tourism Council accreditation.
MBCA is accessible by road from Kota Kinabalu via Keningau, or Tawau via Kalabakan, approximately 200 kilometres from Tawau and 175 kilometres from Keningau.
173,015ha CLASS 1 (Protection) Forest Reserve with 58,840ha of Maliau Basin core area as pristine forest
1: The area of the MBCA in accordance with the Forest (Maliau Basin Conservation Area) Rules 1998:
Maliau Basin Studies Centre (MBSC)
Table
MALIAU BASIN MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE
The Committee’s primary role is supervising the area’s protection and development.
The Committee is responsible for planning, coordinating, facilitating, monitoring and evaluating the conservation area’s management objectives.
Ministry of Tourism, Culture, and Environment
Conservation activities have been ongoing since the inception of the area, in line with its objectives and in accordance with the Forest (Maliau Basin Conservation Area) Rules 1998, which aim to ensure the perpetual protection of as much biological diversity as possible at the genetic, individual, subspecies, habitat, and ecosystem levels of organisation.
A total of 514 researchers have conducted research in MBCA across various levels of study, including Post-doctoral (76), PhDs (115), Master’s (136), Bachelor’s (35) students and others (152). To date, 174 research projects have been completed, while 213 remain ongoing. 100 research works yet to commence and 27 were not approved/cancelled.
Number of Researchers
(as of 31 December 2025)
MBCA is a botanical resource of immense value. It serves as a last refuge for many species lost in other areas due to habitat disturbance. Although only a fraction of the species were identified, the known species count is significant. Many of the species found in Maliau are rare and endermic to Sabah or Borneo, with some being exclusive to Maliau.
>1,800
Species of Plants
53
Species of Amphibians
Species of Orchids
150 278 Threatened Species (Mammals)
Species of Birds
21
93
Species of Mammals
20
Species of Bornean Endemic
Joint Patrolling with PROTECT Team, Sabah Forestry Department.
Joint Patrolling with Rakyat Berjaya S/B, Sabah Forestry Department & Sabah Wildlife Deparment.
Number of Patrolling & Surveillance Activities
Months
MBSC was completed and officiated in 2011. Almost all the proposed development and infrastructure plans have been implemented in MBCA. Maintenance of the facilities is periodically carried out by its staff.
MBCA gate (reception building, staff house & security post)
Reception & information counter, office, library, mini theatre & souvenir shop
Assisting researchers from Smithsonian Institution
National Museum of Natural History, USA.
March
Joint Patrolling with Rakyat Berjaya S/B, Sabah Forestry Department & Sabah Wildlife Department
February
Joint Patrolling with PROTECT Team, Sabah Forestry Department.
May
Public awareness and exhibition in conjunction with Karnival Alam Sekitar SMK Balung, Tawau.
June
Assisting researchers from Sabah Forestry Department.
July
Elephant collaring project conducted in collaboration with the Sabah Wildlife Department and the Wildlife Rescue Unit. Two elephants, one male and one female, were successfully collared.
July
27th
Environmental Education Programme participated by SMK Tulid, SMK Wallace Bay, SMK Tenom, and SMK Nabawan 2.
July
Environmental Education and Public Awareness talk at SK Pekan Pensiangan K9.
July
Environmental Education and Public Awareness talk at SMK Wallace Bay, Tawau.
August 28th Environmental Education Programme participated by SMK Kuhara, SM Islamiah, SMK Kemabong, and SMK Apin-Apin.
September
Environmental awareness talk at SK Logongon K9 and SK Babalitan, Pegalungan.
October 29th Environmental Education Programme.
December 32nd Environmental Education Programme participated by SK UmasUmas, Tawau.
Administration & Finance
• Conducting more staff capacity-building programmes to produce skilled employees, and increase work efficiencies, especially in administration, finance, engineering, forest management, and tourism services such as nature interpretation and guiding, front office, and housekeeping.
• Adhere to the legal requirements such as acquiring necessary licensed such as licenses for our guides and transportation.
• In all cases, strong preference will be given to activities that involve minimal risk to the MBCA while yielding maximum benefits – including financial benefits – for conservation.
Maintenance & Development
• Improving accessibility by developing better trail systems and improving the facilities inside the trail such as construction of gazebo, toilet, and bridges.
• As an effort to implement green energy, MBCA will replace power sources at the studies centre and research station with renewable energy such as solar power, wind power, and low-impact small hydroelectric sources. The objective is to minimise the cost on operate the studies centre as well as to raise awareness.
Conservation, Research & Protection
• To prepare a Strategic Management Plan for the next ten (10) years starting from 2026 until 2035. Information about flora/fauna/climate/hydrology/geomorphology of MBCA obtained through the 2024 Wildlife and Resources Survey will be used as one of the reference materials in drafting the Strategic Management Plan.
• The patrolling and monitoring activities will be enhanced for protection of the area. A lesson learnt from the DaMaI initiative.
• Apart from welcoming researchers from local and international institutions to conduct research at MBCA, MBCA is also open to internship students. Each intern will be encouraged to conduct a simple research project on flora, fauna, administration, and finance to develop their talent and critical thinking. In the meantime, their research paper will be kept in CEMD research database.
• With the renewal of the MoU on Maliau Basin Research, education, and training programme between Yayasan Sabah Group and Nordic Rainforest Research Network (NRRN), MBCA shall be used as the focal research and training centre as well as promoting interest among the Nordic Research Community to carry out research in MBCA.
Hospitality & Recreation
• The proposal to develop the Ecotourism Site at MBCA. The result of the 2024 wildlife and resource survey, the Ecotourism Site have been established namely Ecotourism Site, Kuamut Ecotourism Site, Pinangah Ecotourism Site, Tibow Ecotourism Site, INIKEA (RIL) Ecotourism Site & INIKEA (Kalabakan Upland) and Inarad Ecotourism Site have the potential tobe developed into tourist attractions.
• Preparation of the 5-year tourism action plans to develop eco-tourism activities at MBCA.
• Intense promotion of the area as eco-tourism activities will be done through ecotourism packages created to suit each group’s needs. The packages will cover trekking inside the forest as well as leisure activities at the studies centre.
TALIWAS RIVER CONSERVATION AREA
Refreshing and Rejuvenating Rainforest Eden
The Taliwas River Conservation Area (TRCA) is about 36 kilometres from Lahad Datu town and 45 kilometres east of the Danum Valley Conservation Area (DVCA). TRCA encompasses a large forested area stretching from Sungai Segama to the adjacent Sapagaya Forest Reserve (including Bukit Silam) and the Kawag-Gibong Virgin Jungle Reserve (VJR) near the coast.
The Group established the Taliwas River Studies Centre (TRSC) to facilitate activities at Taliwas, which includes several infrastructures and facilities, including a nursery and a dipterocarp tree arboretum. TRSC research activities have been integrated with recreation and ecotourism initiatives to optimise the Centre’s use.
TRCA is a perfect place for visitors to enjoy pleasurable experiences due to its unique flora vegetation, beautiful serene lake, and crystal-clear river. TRCA also offers the chance to see wildlife, such as birds, mammals and reptiles, as well as discover unique plants around the area.
It now aims to serve as a biodiversity conservation gene bank, besides providing the public with facilities and services for nature recreational activities and a venue for Environmental Education Programmes for students.
9,546 ha
CLASS 1 (Protection) Forest Reserve
Sungai Taliwas Forest Reserve
TALIWAS RIVER STUDIES CENTRE (TRSC)
FLORA AND FAUNA
The table below displays the monthly counts of fauna found in the TRCA in 2025 by each month. There are two types of observation: night drive wildlife observation and daily wildlife observation:
January
Daily wildlife observation
NO. DATE LOCATION
1. At all times TRCA Long Tailed Macaque/Macaca Fascicularis/Monkey In groups
February
Daily wildlife observation NO. DATE
1. At all times TRCA Long Tailed Macaque/Macaca Fascicularis/Monkey In groups
March
Daily wildlife observation
1. At all times TRCA Long Tailed Macaque/Macaca Fascicularis/ Monkey In groups
2. At all times Staff quarters Porcupine 2
April
Daily wildlife observation NO. DATE LOCATION
1. At all times TRCA Long Tailed Macaque/Macaca Fascicularis/Monkey In groups
May
Daily wildlife observation
1. At all times TRCA Long Tailed Macaque/Macaca Fascicularis/Monkey In groups
30/5/25 SD03 Borneon Pygmy Elephant 1 Camera surveillance
June
Daily wildlife observation
1. At all times TRCA Long Tailed Macaque/Macaca Fascicularis/Kera In groups
July
Daily wildlife observation
1. At all times TRCA Long Tailed Macaque/Macaca Fascicularis/Monkey In groups
August
Daily wildlife observation
At all times TRCA Long Tailed Macaque/Macaca Fascicularis/Monkey In groups
November
Daily wildlife observation
NO. DATE
1. At all times TRCA Long Tailed Macaque/Macaca Fascicularis/ Monkey In groups
2. At all times TRCA Monitor Lizard/Varanus Varius 2
December
Daily wildlife observation
NO. DATE
1. At all times TRCA Long Tailed Macaque/Macaca Fascicularis/Monkey In groups
2. 31/12/25 Main road Borneon Pygmy Elephant In groups An elephant was sighted on the main road directly in front of the office.
3. 10/12/25 Main road –Silam Road Borneon Pygmy Elephant 1 An elephant was sighted along the main access road at KM18
4. 23/12/25 Gravity pipe Borneon Pygmy Elephant
5. 31/12/25 TRCA Borneon Pygmy Elephant
Evidence of elephant presence was found at the gravity pipe area, where a section of the pipe was broken, presumably due to elephant activity.
Signs of elephant presence were observed within the staff housing area, believed to be attracted by fruiting durian trees around the centre
PATROLLING & SURVEILLANCE
Throughout 2025, the Group together with the Sabah Forestry Department and Sabah Wildlife Department (under the DaMaI Patrolling & Monitoring Initiative, funded through Sabah Environmental Trust) carried out 70 joint patrolling activities in TRCA. Most of the patrolling activities were routine from TRCA to gate KM55.
HOSPITALITY & RECREATION
(2009-2025)
23,493
Visitors
TRCA’s visitor count steadily increased when the MCO was lifted in 2022, and this upward trend continued through 2023 and reached its peak in 2024 with 2,456 visitors, the highest recorded across all years. However, in 2025, the total number of visitors decreased to 1,384, indicating a decline compared to the previous year.
OUR PARTNERS
(Australia Seed Centre) Studies on Eucalyptus pelita.
Foret (France Forestry & Agriculture Research Institution) Studies on Eucalyptus pelita.
JIRCAS of Japan
Studies on the control of insect borders using pheromones on Mohagany (Swietenia. macrophylla).
CSIRO
Sabah Forestry Department
Cirad
January 2025
Public visitors to TRCA during January 2025.
2025 HIGHLIGHTS
February 2025
6 February 2025
The Sabah Forestry Department conducted Train the Trainer – birding & wildlife monitoring programme.
March 2025
10 March 2025
The Community Outreach Programme at Danum Estate organied by FELCRA.
Team Building Course 1
Team Building Course 2
Team Building Course 3
Environmental Education Programmes
EEP – Kembara Rimba Taliwas
April – December 2025
TRCA and SEARRP jointly organised a series of EEP – Kembara Rimba Taliwas from April to December 2025. Over 300 students and teachers from Tawau, Sandakan, Lahad Datu and Kinabatangan districts participated in the programme.
April 2025
18 – 20 April 2025
SMK Batu Sapi, Sandakan
20 July 2025
2025 HIGHLIGHTS
TRCA joined the exhibition held in conjunction with the Kem Lestari Generasi Madani Programme at SK Sepagaya, Lahad Datu
16 – 17 August 2025
SM ST. Dominic, Lahad Datu
16 – 17 October 2025
SK Litang, Kinabatangan
November 2025
2025 HIGHLIGHTS
The EEP conducted for staffs of the oil palm plantation company, Ladang March Surge Sdn. Bhd., Ladang Danum, Harmonic Plantation, Feb Plantation and Agro Oil Palm.
2 – 4 December 2025
SK Jaya Baru, Kinabatangan, SK Batu Puteh, Lahad Datu & SK Ladang Bode Kretam, Lahad Datu
16 December 2025
SK Paris III, Kinabatangan
MOVING FORWARD
Administration and Finance
TRCA’s strategic goals, which encompass becoming a prime conservation area for research, training, education, and protection of forests, are of significant importance. These goals, including biodiversity enhancement, water catchment for Lahad Datu, and climate mitigation, are biologically crucial and reflect our commitment to the environment. A five-year projection, detailing the method and time frame for achieving these goals, will be prepared to ensure Taliwas has the guidelines and a timeline for achieving the goals, demonstrating our dedication to transparency and accountability.
The Group is committed to transitioning to a sustainable financial model in its daily operations. This shift involves considering Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) factors in our investment decisions, leading to more long-term investments in sustainable economics and projects. This approach ensures our financial stability and underscores our commitment to responsible and sustainable practices, providing stakeholders with confidence in our operations.
The Group also plans to invent a green power supply method as a subset of renewable energy and represent those renewable energy resources and technology that provide the highest environmental benefit to the environment, such as solar power, wind, geothermal, biogas, eligible biomass, and low-impact small hydroelectric sources. TRCA will also enlist in the green list status and to obtain the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC) certification.
Hospitality and Recreation
Since 2009 until 2025, TRCA has accumulated 23,493 visitors locally and internationally. This indicates that TRCA could be a tourist site destination, potentially attracting many other collaborators and properstive parties to collaborate with Taliwas.
The Group has established a unit that promotes TRCA as a tourism destination and will develop a five-year plan for TRCA’s eco-tourism promotion. This includes creating and promoting packages for Taliwas and becoming an expert on the packages, such as environmental education and camping activities.
Development and Maintenance
The Group plans to upgrade the current facilities, including the camping site, hostel, and surrounding amenities. Their goal is to become one of the best camping sites in Sabah and a leading EEP site. The Group also intends to construct additional visitor facilities.
Silam Coast Conservation Area
Where the wildlife of land and sea meet
A Research Centre for Marine & Mangrove Ecosystem
Silam Coast Conservation Area (SCCA) is located on the east coast of Sabah. Unlike the other conservation areas, SCCA is a coastal forest surrounded by crystal clear seawater and mangrove forests.
The area is one of the few remaining relatively undisturbed coastal forests in Sabah. It is established for conservation, research, education, public awareness, training as well as nature recreation.
1,782.56 ha Conservation Area
SILAM COAST STUDIES CENTRE (SCSC)
FACILITIES & ACCOMMODATION
Several developments have been done in SCCA since the Group began to manage it in 2003 as a conservation area. Among them are the construction of the Shell Silam Coast and Reception Building, staff quarters, researcher’s quarters, jetty, resting hut, public washroom, viewing platform, and staircase for trekking and hiking.
Besides infrastructures, SCCA has also established a few trails such as the coastal and five-peak trails. SCCA is the latest eco-recreation destination in Lahad Datu. It offers many activities to visitors, such as hiking, trekking, birdwatching, snorkelling, kayaking and venue for events.
RESEARCH
As of 2025, two research studies were carried out in the SCCA since 2023. These research endeavours were carried out through the collaborative efforts of the Group with various government departments, non-governmental organisations, and academic institutions. The primary with objective of these activities was to explore and study the SCCA, focusing on its ecological landscape and biodiversity.
Although no new species of flora or fauna were discovered during this period, the research conducted since 2023 has significantly contributed to the ongoing conservation and preservation initiatives within the SCCA.
The studies are as follows:
Date
Apr 2023
Habibah Mohd Yusah SCCA
Nov 2023
Julika Winterstein University of Copenhagen
A HAVEN FOR FLORA & FAUNA
Census on population density and distribution of Proboscis Monkey (Nasalis larvatus) in SCCA, Sabah
Socio-ecological baseline study for a restoration site in the Silam Coast Conservation Area
On-going
Completed
Despite being a degraded forest, SCCA recorded a significant amount of biodiversity. The Group made several efforts and activities, such as scientific expeditions, seminars, and funding applications to establish and develop SCCA for conservation, research, education, public awareness, training, and nature recreation.
25
Species of mammals
147
Species of reef fishes
57
Genera of corals
1
Genus of snake
6
Species of insects
40
Species of marine invertebrates
>60
Species of birds
63
Species of mangrove trees
100 including
Species of trees
PATROLLING & SURVEILLANCE
Patrolling and surveillance activities were actively carried out by SCCA throughout 2025 in both terrestrial and marine areas. During these activities, SCCA staff encountered several encroachments within the protected area. SCCA collaborated with the Sabah Forestry Department (SFD) to approach the illegal settlers, and notices to move out were issued to them. Throughout 2025, at least 45 land and sea patrols were conducted. Periodic patrols were also carried out by Eastern Sabah Security Command (ESSCOM), the Police, General Operation Force (PGA), and DaMaI. During monitoring activities, eight (8) felled trees were discovered with evidence of chainsaw use left at the site. The incident was reported to the SFD, Lahad Datu District Office, for further action.
Patrolling & Surveillance Activities
HOSPITALITY & RECREATION
The number of visitors to SCCA has shown resilience, increasing steadily from 2016 to 2019. Despite a decline in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, visitor numbers gradually recovered in the following years. This increase can be attributed to active promotion through social media and collaborations with local adventure groups. Hiking and trekking activities remain popular among locals, while SCCA continues to be a preferred venue for outdoor programmes due to its easy accessibility from the main road.
By 2025, the cumulative number of visitors reached 49,634, reflecting the continued success of these initiatives and the growing demand for nature-based recreational activities. In 2025 alone, SCCA recorded 7,557 visitors.
Visitors to SCCA
49,634
SHELL Malaysia
In 2010, SHELL Malaysia contributed RM350,000 to construct the SHELL Silam Coast Reception and Information Building which serves as a management office, classroom for environmental education, and exhibition gallery.
Further to that, the Group successfully organised a scientific expedition, seminar, and stakeholder's forum to garner information and stakeholders'
input on establishing SCCA in 2015. SHELL Malaysia provided the Group RM116,044.98 to fund the programmes.
Sabah State Government
In December 2020, the Group managed to obtain the 12th Malaysia Plan fund of RM800,000 from the Sabah State Government through the Sabah Forestry Department to formulate SCCA First Strategic Management Plan. This project is expected to be completed in 2025.
Sabah Environmental Trust (SET)
Under the 12MP fund to formulate SCCA First Strategic Management Plan, the Group has appointed the Sabah Environmental Trust (SET) as its consultant. SET will assist the Group in planning and conducting programmes and preparing the strategic management plan document. A Memorandum of Agreement with SET was signed on 10 December 2021 to effect the appointment.
Danum Valley Management Committee
The DVMC had contributed for Special Environmental Education Programme and four units of boats to SCCA. The boats are utilised for patrolling, research, and environmental education activities.
Preferred by Nature
The Group signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) with Denmarkbased Preferred by Nature (PbN) on 22 August 2024, at the SCCA, aiming to restore the degraded forest in SCCA and ensure its preservation for future generations. Supported by PbN’s RM1.2 Million funding, these efforts will rehabilitate the degraded forest and advance a sustainable future.
Environmental Education Programmes
SCCA organised a series of EEPs from May to November 2025. Over 2,225 students and teachers, involving 7 schools from Tawau, Semporna, Kunak and Lahad Datu district participated in the programmes at SCCA.
6 May 2025
SMK Balung, Tawau
20 - 22 November 2025
8 July 2025
SK Sapagaya, Lahad Datu
3D 2N Camp-Out EEP in conjunction with SCCA Scientific Survey 2025
2025
8 July 2025
SK Sapagaya, Lahad Datu
16 - 24 November 2025
The Scientific Expedition at the Silam Coastal Conservation Area (SCCA)
The expedition involved a total of 107 participants, comprising staff from INIKEA, INFAPRO, Maliau Basin Conservation Area, Imbak Canyon Conservation Area, Taliwas River Conservation Area, as well as representatives from collaborating institutions. The participating agencies included the Sabah Forestry Department, Sabah Wildlife Department, the Lahad Datu District Office, University College Sabah Foundation, Universiti Malaysia Sabah (Faculty of Tropical Forestry and Institute for Tropical Biology and Conservation), Universiti Teknologi MARA (Faculty of Applied Sciences and Faculty of Hotel and Tourism Management), World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF), Sabah Environmental Trust, Eastern Sabah Security Command (ESSCOM), and the Sabah State Health Department.
MOVING FORWARD
Administration and Finance
Strengthening SCCA’s human resource capacity and financing is crucial for effectively executing SCCA’s management strategies and actions. Based on SCCA’s current workforce and operation conditions, the following measures are proposed:
• To recruit staff to support eco-tourism, EEP, research activity, and admin and finance work. Insufficient supporting staff, such as rangers, to conduct intensive patrolling and maintenance activity and managing visitors, especially during peak season.
• SCCA staff needs more experience and skills to operate in protected areas. Hence, there is a need to train existing and future staff in relevant fields such as EEP, nature guiding, lifeguarding skills, research (collecting and managing data), and other appropriate areas.
• To develop a sustainable financing strategy for SCCA.
Maintenance and Development
Renovating and maintaining existing infrastructures and facilities.
• Adding infrastructures such as a prayer room (Surau), washroom at the main visitor’s stop (SCCA Jetty and Puncak), barbeque huts, boat garage, tented camp and water reservoir and dam, research facility (lab and mini herbarium). These infrastructures and facilities are essential to support visitors’ activities.
• Building a waste management centre to maintain cleanliness and incorporate green practices.
Adding recreation and research equipment.
• Currently, SCCA cannot meet visitors’ demand for equipment usage, especially for water activity.
• Installing interpretation signboards.
• These signboards are vital for visitors’ guidance during hiking/trekking.
• Install renewable energy (solar power) and liasing with the District Office to request assistance with electricity supply. The power supply source in SCCA is genset and is only operated for a limited time.
Conservation and Research
• Formulating the first Strategic Management Plan for SCCA with funding from the 12th Malaysia Plan.
SCCA will increase community involvement in conservation/rehabilitation projects.
• The primary threat by SCCA is the frequent encroachment of boundaries by the community. Besides soliciting the Sabah Forestry Department to issue an eviction notice to the encroacher, the Lahad Datu District Forestry Officer has devised a plan to involve the community in the rehabilitation project (planting and monitoring) in the SCCA boundary.
• Developing a three-year EEP plan for SCCA (to include coastal and marine EEP modules).
• Creating collaboration with relevant bodies on coastal, marine and mangrove research programmes. Through the partnership, both parties can promote SCCA research programmes and staff members may benefit from knowledge and skill transfers.
Hospitality and Recreation
Developing SCCA Tourism Action Plan for the next five years.
• Proper planning for developing eco-tourism activity in SCCA is required as tourism will be SCCA’s source of income. The staff must conduct all ecotourism activities in SCCA without jeopardising the ecosystem and biodiversity value.
Developing or improving current Visitors’ SOP (i.e. Reservation and Visitor Activities) in line with management, state and national policy.
• Several changes in the management structure and state and national policy have occurred recently. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, SCCA are forced to adapt to the new norms in our daily personal and working routines. Therefore, the current SOP needs to be reviewed and revised accordingly.
Developing eco-tourism packages for SCCA.
• It is one of the strategies the Group can utilise to maximise SCCA’s income.
Branding SCCA as the staging point for visitors to Darvel Bay.
• Darvel Bay has caught the interest of many people, mainly marine nature enthusiasts, with the discovery of Blue Ring Reefs. SCCA has become the ideal spot for staging as the reef is only 40 minutes away from SCCA. Darvel Bay also has many beautiful reefs suitable for diving and snorkelling activities.
Activities And Achievements Of Infapro INFAPRO
This Annual Report summarises the key activities, collaborations, and achievements of INFAPRO throughout 2025, with a particular focus on forest conservation programs, carbon monitoring, and the development of supporting infrastructure.
Throughout 2025, INFAPRO continued implementing the Forest Rehabilitation Programme as part of its ongoing commitment to environmental conservation and sustainable forest resource management.
Carbon Monitoring Camping activities, which began in 2024, were completed in March 2025. To ensure compliance with standards and technical requirements, an audit process was conducted by Face the Future and Tuv Nord, the independent body that checks and certifies the audit process in March 2025.
RESEARCH ACTIVITIES
In addition, tree-planting activities were carried out with the participation of visitors to the INFAPRO management areas as part of efforts to raise awareness of environmental conservation. An Environmental Education Programme was also organised at the Langom Control and Research Centre to provide exposure and knowledge on the importance of forest and ecosystem preservation.
In 2025, there were no specific research activities involving researchers under INFAPRO’s management.
PARTNERS
In 2025, INFAPRO collaborated with Face the Future as a strategic partner in implementing programmes on carbon monitoring and environmental conservation.
KEY ACHIEVEMENTS
Several key achievements were recorded throughout 2025, including:
• The inauguration of the Langom Control and Research Centre in June 2025 serves as a hub for control operations, research, and environmental education.
• Repair and concreting works along a 700-meter access road leading to the Bukit Atur Observation Tower. These works are ongoing and are expected to be fully completed by April 2026.
• Successful completion of the Carbon Monitoring Camping in March 2025.
NUMBER OF VISITORS
MOVING FORWARD
In the coming years, INFAPRO will continue to strengthen its efforts in forest conservation, environmental monitoring, and the provision of supporting facilities for visitors and the local community. The main focus areas include:
• The INFAPRO Studies Centre.
• Proposed upgrading and construction of a Nature Gallery beneath the office building for visitor use. The former storage area is proposed for refurbishment and conversion into a Nature Gallery.
• Improvements to the Cafeteria building to enhance visitor comfort.
• Implementation of the Environmental Education Programme in 2025 to raise awareness and understanding of the importance of environmental conservation.
• Overall, the upgrade of the INFAPRO office aims to strengthen operational efficiency and service delivery.
Carrying out upgrades to the access road leading to the Bukit Atur observation tower and the MET Malaysia building.
Maintenance to replace broken tiles in the cafeteria.
Repainting the cafeteria area.
Repairing and decorating the reception area.
Carbon Monitoring Campaign.
Carbon Monitoring Campaign (QC – Remeasuring previous plot by FACE).
Audit for Forest Carbon Campaign 2025.
Making of furniture for Fajar, Lahad Datu Office.
Road maintenance to the project plot.
Carpentry activities (Fabrication of an ashtray for the smoking area).
Repairing and repainting a rattan chair.
Cleaning, repairing and repainting the staff house.
Construction of the engine driver’s office.
Fabrication of furniture for INFAPRO’s reception area.
Repairing of the water system at INFAPRO Studies Centre.
Repairing the water system at INFAPRO Studies Centre.
Maintenance of broken water pipe system (Langom Research Station).
Regular maintenance and cleaning work on the Langom Research Station gravity water system.
Cleaning of water pipe system (INFAPRO Studies Centre).
Repairing and rewiring electrical works.
a
Routine maintenance of the genset radiator.
Installing
pole for the electrical cable route to the water pump.
Inspection of Observation Tower.
Court cleaning (Routine).
Maintenance of the pedestrian walkway to the cafe toilets.
Carpentry workshop cleanliness.
Repairing the damaged bridge.
Replacing the leaking roof at the vehicle workshop building.
Routine vehicle repair works.
Trail maintenance around INFAPRO Studies Centre and Langom Research Station.
Repair works on the damaged kitchen wall. Before After
Repairing and repainting of the file storage room and Borneo Rainforest Lodge toilet.
Construction of signage for nursery information.
Regular cleaning at Langom Research Station.
Replacement of the toilet bowl at Galal Resthouse, INFAPRO Conservation/ Reforestation Project Area.
Improvements to the car seat for night driving.
Maintenance works on the air conditioning units in the office and visitors’ room.
Upgrading the stairway access to the visitor’s accommodation.
Upgrading the benches outside Gagil Resthouse.
Making a new sign.
Carrying out drainage repair works at the Agahtis Rest House.
Dismantle the smoke wall at the genset house.
Repairing a broken mosquito net at Gagil resthouse.
Repairing the 3D model.
Maintenance of the road to the suspension bridge.
Drain cleaning work using an excavator. Site clearing for the proposed new genset building site.
Cleanliness around carpentry workshop. Repairing the drainage near the workshop. Area cleanliness around Langom RS building.
Conducting a road inspection to the repeater tower (Simpang 11) and checking equipment such as solar panels, batteries and other items related to the radio call system at the repeater tower, and area cleanliness around the repeater tower.
Ceanliness around the study centre.
Cleanliness along the road toward the project plot and around the studies centre.
Cleanliness around Infapro Studies Centre and Langom Research Station.
Cleanliness works around Bole Cabin.
WIFI Installation at the lab and administration office. Assisting BRL to transfer their guest by using a boat (Sungai Takala).
Cleanliness around walit house (Proposed for new carpentry workshop)
Preparation of Langom Research Station Opening Ceremony.
District Management Technical Unit conducted a visit and inspection at the INFAPRO Dam 2 and Bole-Cabin for future planning purposes regarding the water supply for the INFAPRO Studies Centre and electricity generation at the Bole-Cabin.
Langom Research Station Opening Ceremony.
Site inspection at Langom and Observation Tower from District Management Technical Unit.
Carried out repairs on the nursery net that was damaged by a fallen tree branch, cleaning up the leaves and twigs that had fallen onto the nursery net.
Tree ID Course (Basic Level).
Repairing broken nursery net poles.
Stitching the new shade net for Nursery 2.
Installation of an information signage near Nursery 2.
Transfer the seedling from Nursery 4 to another nursery, as researchers from Danum need this area.
Seedlings ready to dispatch.
Dispatching seedlings to deliver to Ladang Sapong.
Seedling buyer from One Stop Borneo.
Put out all of the Belian & Dipterocarps saplings from Nursery 1 and transfer to Nursery 2.
RMK cut aluminium rolls for tagging trees.
Cleaning around Mycor Lab.
Patrolling activities (Studies Centre – USM Road).
Some photos retrieved from a camera trap.
Boundary verification in preparation for OP application.
Bole-Cabin boundary measuring.
Boundary verification with Survey Field Division in preparation for Occupation Permit application.
Measuring the marking tree close to the Bole Cabin.
Carried out Phenology activities (Dipterocarps Family).
Carried out marcotting activity of fig tree.
Environmental Education activities at Langom Research Station.
Presentation by one of the representative students who joined the Environmental Education - Education at Langom Research Station.
INFAPRO participated
Group photo of three school participating in an Environmental initiative programme.
in the Environmental Exhibition organised by SK Sepagaya.
Tree planting activity by visitors.
Volunteer cleaning and clearing broken polybags and nets in the nursery.
Introducing Langom Research Station and installing camera traps in the trail.
Volunteer planting tree activity at Langom Research Station.
Two INFAPRO staff at Forest Management Unit 15, Nabawan, for PSP establishment.
An officer from the Sabah Forest Department inspected the trees that need to be felled in the GAW area.
The Maliau Basin Conservation Area Stakeholder Consultative Workshop
Visitors at INFAPRO and Langom Research Station.
Visit by Sabah Park Delegates.
Site visit from Safari Acacia Group.
Field Course visit.
OSH briefing and training.
Audit inventories for diesel stock and petty cash.
Physical check for diesel stock.
Recce on DVCA Tourism Site at Sungai Tarangan.
Guide & Porter Training at Danum Valley Studies Centre.
Anti-poaching meeting.
INFAPRO staff attending Borneo Refugia briefing at Danum Valley Studies Centre.
Familiarisation visit to Borneo Rainforest Lodge.
Reducing Emission from Deforestation and Forest Degradation (REDDPLUS) Outreach Programme.
Canopy walk and trekking activities at BRL.
Meeting on EE Programme at Langom.
Maliau Basin Sustainable Financing Workshop.
Maliau Basin Ecotourism Workshop.
CONCLUSION
INFAPRO maintains a steadfast dedication to forest rehabilitation, carbon sequestration monitoring, and the development of essential infrastructure. By blending rigorous environmental science with community engagement, the organisation continues to solidify its leadership in sustainable forest management.
Key Achievements
• Infrastructure & Research: Successfully inaugurated the Langom Control and Research Centre and completed critical road enhancements to the Bukit Atur Observation Tower.
• Scientific Monitoring: Finalised the Carbon Monitoring Campaign, providing vital data for climate impact assessments.
• Strategic Alliances: Strengthened the long-term partnership with Face the Future, ensuring the seamless execution of conservation and monitoring protocols.
• Public Impact: Welcomed a diverse range of local and international visitors, significantly boosting environmental literacy and conservation awareness.
MOVING FORWARD
INFAPRO is poised to elevate its impact through several high-priority initiatives:
1. Facility Upgrades: Enhancing visitor infrastructure to provide a world-class experience.
2. Educational Expansion: Developing the INFAPRO Studies Centre and a dedicated Nature Gallery.
3. Community Outreach: Scaling continuous environmental education programmes to inspire the next generation of stewards.
INFAPRO remains dedicated to driving excellence in conservation, ensuring that these forests continue to thrive for
INIKEA
A major highlight of 2025 is the notable increase in wildlife sightings within the restored areas. The return of species such as Bornean Orangutans, Bornean Gibbons, Borneo Pygmy Elephants, and Hornbills signals a thriving ecosystem and the success of the long-term restoration approach adopted by the project
Since its launch in 1998, the Innoprise IKEA Tropical Forest Rehabilitation Project (INIKEA) has made remarkable strides in restoring degraded forest landscapes in Sabah. In the third year of the five-year maintenance phase of its fourth stage, the project continues demonstrating meaningful ecological recovery and reaffirming its position as a large-scale forest rehabilitation model.
The INIKEA Forest Rehabilitation Project is situated within the Sungai Tiagau Forest Reserve (Class 1 Protection Forest Reserve and covers a total area of 18,500 hectares)
Current efforts are focused on routine maintenance activities, including weed slashing, refilling, and shade adjustment. These treatments aim to ensure the healthy growth of previously planted native species, primarily dipterocarps, non-dipterocarps, and wild fruit trees, and support the natural regeneration process where applicable.
Supported by IKEA of Sweden and guided by the Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU) technical expertise, the project continues to implement sustainable forestry practices and forest recovery strategies. INIKEA’s operations uphold high environmental and social responsibility standards that align with The Ikea Way on Purchasing Products, materials and services (IWAY) standards. Independent audits under the Rainforest Alliance’s Smartwood Programme have continued to recognise INIKEA’s exemplary practices in sustainable forestry and worker welfare.
Looking ahead, the Group remains committed to maintaining the momentum of forest restoration and strengthening its role as a responsible steward of the environment. We hope that INIKEA will continue to serve as a leading example of impactful, sciencebased conservation that will inspire collaborative efforts to safeguard Sabah’s rich biodiversity for future generations.
Photo Credit : Susanna Bergstrom
18,500 CLASS 1 (Protection) Sungai Tiagau Forest Reserve
Rehabilitation
Nursery
Phenology observation monthly in 2025
Rainfall is being recorded monthly in 2025
Total Monthly Rainfall (mm)
Number of Rainy Days
Overall Pattern Analysis
Table 3: Phenology observation as of December 2025
Number of Rainy Days
Number of Rainy Days
Number of Rainy Days
RESEARCHERS IN 2025
PARTNERS IN 2025
ACHIEVEMENTS
1,466
1024
Visitors
Januari 2025
Attended the C&EMD 3rd-4th Quarter Management Meeting (QMM) and Family Day at the Imbak Canyon Studies Centre, ICCA
Progress of Research Quarter 2 (Block Belian) renovation: Installation of SPC flooring
Progress of road maintenance work at Maris Camp
February 2025
21st INIKEA Steering Committee Meeting site visits at INIKEA
Slashing surrounding staff housing at Luasong Forestry Centre
Maintenance of vehicles and heavy machinery
September Attended the Workshop on Sustainable Tourism Certification and Visitor Management for the Revision of the Maliau Basin Strategic Management Plan 2025–2034 at MBSC.
Field Visit from Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Sweden (Dr Ulrik Ilstedt, Dr Kevin Gredy, Dr Arvid Lindh, Dr Peter Axelsson and Mr Simon Arns)
Maintenance of staff quarters
Road Maintenance
October 2025
Repair works for staff quarters
Levelling and backfilling works at the proposed kitchen and dining area site at the Research Quarters.
Bridge maintenance
Maintenance of vehicles and heavy machinery
Construction of shoe racks for Maris River Camp (MRL) and beds for staff housing.
November 2025
Maintenance work at Staff Quarters and Researcher’s Quarters in Luasong
Vehicles and backhoe maintenance
Road maintenance LuasongMaris road
December 2025
Installation of an additional rain shower at the Research Quarters (Belian Block)
Modification of the piping system at the Research Quarters (Belian Block)
Maintenance of vehicles and heavy machinery
SABAH NATURE CLUB
Sabah Nature Club (SNC), or Kelab Pencinta Alam Sabah (KPAS), is an Environmental Education programme, which acts as part of the Group’s contribution to nature. SNC, the first of its kind in Sabah and Malaysia, was officially launched on 7 October 1988 as an extra-curricular activity within schools, maximising the involvement of teachers and students through the support of the Sabah Education Department. SNC aims to cultivate interest, increase knowledge, nurture essential attitudes and develop valves as well as skills needed to protect the cultural, scientific and aesthetic valves of Sabah’s flora and fauna among the youths.
The idea of establishing the SNC originated from a series of discussions among the Education Department, the Forestry Department, the State Museum, Sabah Parks, the Ministry of Tourism and Environmental Development, and the Sabah Environmental Protection Association (SEPA). To realise this initiative, the SNC programme was implemented in collaboration with the Education Department as a co-curricular activity to engage school principals, teachers, and students.
On 7 October 1988, SNC was officially launched by the then Chief Minister of Sabah, Datuk Joseph Pairin Kitingan. Since then, SNC has successfully established its credibility and reputation not only at the local level but also internationally, including among various agencies and non-governmental organisations (NGOs). Over more than 30 years since its establishment in 1985, SNC has implemented a wide range of activities and programmes that have strengthened its role in environmental conservation and ecological education.
IDEA
Following a 1985 meeting with the Education Department, Forestry Department, State Museum, Sabah Parks, the Ministry of Tourism and Environment, and SEPA, the idea of establishing the Kelab Pencinta Alam Sabah (SNC) was conceived.
RECOGNITION
The then President of WWF Malaysia, Tan Sri Dato’ Khir Johari, recognised the SNC as one of the leading clubs actively implementing conservation initiatives and environmental awareness programmes in Sabah.
OFFICIAL ESTABLISHMENT
SNC was officially launched by the Chief Minister of Sabah on 7 October 1988, as the first co-curricular education scheme in Sabah and in Malaysia as a whole.
OPERATIONS
SNC operates under the Conservation and Environmental Management Division (CEMD) of the Yayasan Sabah Group.
Objectives of SNC
• To promote interest and enhance knowledge of wildlife, forests, and the environment among the youth in the state of Sabah.
• To foster and focus attention on the protection of fauna and flora, as well as examples of Sabah’s natural heritage.
• To increase awareness of the economic, cultural, scientific, and aesthetic values of Sabah’s fauna and flora.
• To provide opportunities for youth to cultivate the attitudes, values, and skills necessary to protect and improve the natural environment.
SNC Membership
SNC has an open membership structure for schools and institutions. Membership may include teachers, students, and lecturers who are interested in promoting environmental awareness, conservation efforts, and outdoor education. Joining the club provides various benefits, including access to resources, participation in organised events, and opportunities to network with like-minded individuals.
As of 2025, SNC has recorded a cumulative membership of 45,805 students since its. In addition, 205 registered nature clubs have been affiliated with SNC over the same period.
These figures reflect a high level of community interest and engagement in environmental activities and nature conservation. They also demonstrate SNC’s success in attracting participation from individuals and nature clubs at schools and institutions, as previously stated.
45,805
REGISTERED MEMBERS SINCE 1988
205
REGISTERED NATURE CLUBS AFFLIATED WITH SNC SINCE 1988
CLUB ACTIVITIES
Club activities combine wilderness experiences with outdoor adventures, nature-themed projects, and environmental awareness. Since its establishment, numerous programmes have been organised and implemented as follows:
1. OUTDOOR & ADVENTURE PROGRAMME
• Series of Nature Orientation Courses
• Nature Camp
• Environmental Awareness Camp
• Nature Interpretation Course
2. TRAINING & CAPACITY BUILDING
• Nature Club Facilitators Course
• “Train the Trainers” Programme for CEMD Staff
• Presentation Skills Training
• Training for School Nature Club Teacher Advisors
• Workshop for Environmental Education Practitioners
3. ENVIRONMENTAL AWARENESS & OUTREACH
• Environmental Education Programme for Special Interest Groups
• School Talks and Visits
• Awareness Programme for Rural Communities
• Radio Talks
• Public Awareness and Cleanliness Campaigns
• Sustainable Development Camp Series for Community Leaders
SNC Programmes
There are two main SNC programmes conducted twice a year: the Nature Orientation Course series and the once-a-year Sustainable Development Camp for Community Leaders.
1. Nature Orientation Course (NOC)
The Nature Orientation Course (NOC) is a key activity organised by SNC for its members, conducted twice a year in conservation areas such as Danum Valley, Maliau Basin, Imbak Canyon, and Taliwas River. NOC is held over 4 days and 3 nights during the school holidays. A total of 30 participants, comprising 4 teachers and 26 students, were selected from various schools in Sabah that are registered with the SNC Secretariat.
The NOC initiative not only contributes to environmental education among students but also aligns with the broader objective of promoting the conservation areas under the Group. By providing participants with direct and immersive experiences in natural environments, the programme aims to foster a deeper understanding of the importance of preserving natural habitats and biodiversity.
Activities conducted during the programme include forest interpretation, birdwatching, river ecology studies, jungle trekking, discussions and debates, simulations, and other related activities. The main objective of SNC is to cultivate a love for nature while encouraging teamwork and leadership among participants.
2. Sustainable Development Camp for Community Leaders
The idea of organising the Sustainable Development Camp was first conceived in 2005 when the Group initiated a comprehensive rural development effort, with emphasis on holistic human capital development through the empowerment of rural communities. This initiative, known as the Programme for Excellent and Innovative Villages (PDCB), was implemented in selected villages across the state. Although the PDCB programme was considered successful, there remained areas for improvement, particularly in sustainable development.
As a result, SNC introduced a special programme for community leaders, the Sustainable Development Camp for Community Leaders. This programme is conducted in collaboration with the six Yayasan Sabah zone offices across the state. Each zone nominates six participants to attend the camp, which is held in conservation areas such as Danum Valley, Maliau Basin, or Imbak Canyon. The programme runs for 4 days and 3 nights.
Activities throughout the camp include lectures delivered by the Sabah Forestry Department, Sabah Wildlife Department, Sabah Fisheries Department, as well as several NGOs. Participants also engage in mind-mapping, discussion sessions, and hands-on activities, including waste management, composting, and field visits. In the mind-mapping exercise, participants are required to list the natural resources in their villages, describe their current status, and outline the measures taken to conserve them.
One of the key achievements of this programme is the implementation of the Tagal System, in which local communities manage river ecosystems and maintain their cleanliness through sustainable fish-harvesting practices. In addition, another positive impact of the programme is a shift in the community’s mindset towards preventing illegal hunting and increasing awareness of environmental conservation.
SNC has established collaborations with various local and international organisations. These partnerships play an important role in SNC’s efforts to raise public awareness. They are achieved through cooperation with a range of strategic partners, including government agencies, local communities, the business sector, and individual donors. SNC leverages the strengths of these collaborations to achieve greater success.
SNC has successfully built its credibility and gained recognition among environmental agencies at both the local and international levels. Over the years, SNC has achieved numerous milestones.
Largest Youth-Based Movement (Membership).
Starting with just 2,000 registered members from 11 pilot SNC schools, the programme had grown to encompass 202 participating schools, with a cumulative memberships of 45,351 students and teachers as of 2024. SNC is dedicated to students as they are the future generation responsible for safeguarding Sabah’s heritage. SNC serves as a first step for young people to gain exposure and develop awareness of the importance of environmental conservation.
Best Decorative Exhibitor, Malaysian Environmental Week, KK, 1995.
Achievement received during the Malaysian Environment Week Exhibition in Kota Kinabalu in 1995.
State Level Conference jointly organised with the Ministry of Tourism and Environmental Development, 1997.
SNC collaborated with the Ministry of Tourism and Environment to organise a state-level conference for agencies involved in Environmental Education.
The Most Successful Conservation Project in Malaysia from WWF’s Conservation Merit in 1998.
The World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF-Malaysia) has recognised SNC as one of the most successful conservation projects in Malaysia. SNC was also one of the four recipients of the Conservation Excellence Award, ten years after its official launch.
Outstanding Environmentally Friendly Government Organisation, 2003.
SNC is recognised as an environmentally friendly organisation for its active participation in and support for various government-organised environmental programmes. SNC has also become part of the school’s co-curricular programme.
Nature Orientation Course Series.
• The first NOC was held from 4 to 11 April 1987 at the Danum Valley Field Centre. The course was attended by 23 students and two teachers from several schools in Sabah.
• To date, 83 NOC series have been conducted, involving more than 2,240 students and 310 teachers.
Environmental Education Programme (EEP) Module for Club Activities.
SNC has developed and produced a module for use by its members.
Module.
To implement SNC programmes, SNC has developed an internal module handbook.
Sustainable Development Camp Series for Community Leaders (SDC).
• The Sustainable Development Camp for Community Leaders was initiated in 2005 at the Danum Valley Field Centre (DVFC) and involved 30 community leaders from across the state.
• To date, 19 SDC series have been conducted, involving approximately 500 participants.
Train The Trainers.
Since 2012, SNC has conducted nine Train-the-Trainers programmes involving approximately 18 environmental awareness staff for each programme. In 2023, the programme involved teachers in providing exposure to Environmental Education (EE) activities and SNC, as well as sharing ideas for developing new module books and improving existing modules. In 2024, the programme was directed at staff of the Conservation & Environmental Management Division (BK & PAS), focusing on teambuilding activities.
School Talks and Visits.
SNC has conducted 35 school talks since 1995 to raise students’ awareness of the importance of environmental conservation and wildlife protection. Exposure to SNC activities has also been shared during these programmes.
Conservation Area Open Day Programme.
SNC has organised three Conservation Area Open Day programmes: the Silam Coast Conservation Area Open Day (2022), the Imbak Canyon Conservation Area Open Day (2024), and the Maliau Basin Conservation Area Awareness Programme (2025).
Magazine.
To date, SNC has published 25 magazine volumes, including digital publications. In 2025, SNC published two e-magazines.
Calendar.
SNC has produced several annual calendars in poster and desk calendar formats.
Educational Visit to the Epal Handicraft Centre, Kota Kinabalu with SMK Taman Tun Fuad
Educational Visit to the Epal Handicraft Centre, Kota Kinabalu with SM Stella Maris
Educational Visit to the Epal Handicraft Centre, Kota Kinabalu with Kota Kinabalu Sixth Form College
Nature Orientation Course Series 82 at Imbak Canyon Conservation Area
DaMaI Rainforest Landscape Awareness Programme
Special Environmental Education & Adopt-a-School Programme at Langom Research Station, Lahad Datu
Exhibition at SK Api-Api, Kota Kinabalu
Nature and Knowledge Orientation Programme at Imbak Canyon Studies Centre
STEM Fiesta Carnival Exhibition at SK St. Paul Kolopis, Penampang
Nature Orientation Course Series 83 at Danum Valley
Environmental Education Programme in conjunction with the Silam Coast Scientific Survey
Two Nature Orientation Courses (NOC) were successfully conducted at the Imbak Canyon Conservation Area (ICCA) and the Danum Valley Conservation Area (DVCA) in 2025, involving a total of 40 students from 9 schools across Sabah. These programmes marked the 82nd and 83rd NOC series organised by SNC.
This in-depth experience not only enriched participants’ understanding of nature but also fostered a strong sense of responsibility for environmental conservation among students and teachers.
Imbak Canyon Conservation Area (ICCA)
Valley Conservation Area (DVCA)
Schools Involved
SMK Telupid, Telupid
SM La Salle, Kota Kinabalu
SM St. Michael, Penampang
Kolej Tingkatan 6, Kota Kinabalu
SMK Tamparuli, Tuaran
SMK Timbua, Ranau
SMK Beluran, Sandakan
SMK Balung, Tawau
A comprehensive set of activities was implemented to ensure a holistic learning experience, combining theoretical knowledge with hands-on exploration and interactive simulations throughout the Nature Orientation Course, as follows:
Programme Activities
Talks by SNC and Conservation Area Officers
Informative sessions covering various aspects of environmental conservation, biodiversity, and sustainable practices.
Bird Watching
A session that allowed participants to identify and learn about various bird species found in the conservation area.
Simulation (Debate & Discussion) – Future of ICCA & DVCA
A simulation activity involving debates and discussions on the future of the Imbak Canyon Conservation Area and Danum Valley Conservation Area, promoting critical thinking and environmental advocacy.
Teambuilding
Forest Diversity (Trekking)
Participants engaged in trekking activities to explore and appreciate the rich diversity of flora and fauna within the conservation area.
Compass & Orienteering
Practical lessons on navigation using compass to enhance outdoor survival and field navigation skills.
Night Walking
Participants took part in night walks to explore and identify nocturnal flora and fauna.
An activity designed to foster teamwork, cooperation, and leadership skills among participants.
The SNC provided an opportunity for urban schools around Kota Kinabalu to participate in the EPAL Handicraft Centre, Kota Kinabalu Visit, a specialised centre focused on creative sewing arts and the concept of upcycling, which is an innovative approach to giving new life to used materials such as plastics and textiles.
Through this programme, a total of three schools in the Tuaran and Kota Kinabalu districts were visited in March 2025:
1. SMK Taman Tun Fuad, Tuaran (17 participants – 15 students and 2 accompanying teachers)
2. SM Stella Maris, Kota Kinabalu (28 participants – 26 students and 2 teachers)
3. Kolej Tingkatan Enam Kota Kinabalu (30 participants – 17 students, 6 teachers, and 7 PTA representatives)
As part of SNC’s annual activities, this programme featured a variety of engaging content, including:
I. Practical and instructional sessions on creative sewing with an upcycling concept.
II. Briefings on the importance of environmental conservation.
In addition, the programme demonstrated that outdoor education remains relevant and essential in shaping a more environmentally conscious and creative generation. It also provided opportunities for students and teachers to interact directly with SNC to obtain further information and address any inquiries related to the Sabah Foundation Conservation Areas and the SNC.
Throughout the visit, SNC also took the opportunity to register new members and renew existing memberships, thereby encouraging greater student participation in environmental conservation efforts.
The EPAL Handicraft Centre in Kota Kinabalu delivered a talk on the process of upcycling tote bags.
Mr Isaac Grey Denis delivered a briefing on the importance of environmental conservation at the EPAL Handicraft Centre in Kota
Kinabalu.
Group photo during the visit to the EPAL Handicraft Centre with students from SMK Taman Tun Fuad and Kolej Tingkatan Enam Kota Kinabalu.
Educational visit with students of
SM Stella Maris, Kota Kinabalu, at the EPAL Handicraft Centre in Kota Kinabalu.
SNC was entrusted with organising the Maliau Basin Conservation Area Awareness Programme, held in May 2025 at the Maliau Basin Conservation Area (MBCA) in Kalabakan. This programme is one of the initiatives under the Memorandum of Understanding between Yayasan Sabah Group (BK & PAS) and the Sabah Environmental Trust (SET). A total of 128 participants took part in this programme, comprising local communities from Sook, Nabawan, and Tawau, government agency representatives, media personnel, paramedics, and the Group’s.
The main objective of the programme was to raise community awareness on the importance of conserving the DaMaI Rainforest Landscape (DRL) and its potential as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, to gain public support for conservation efforts, to provide education on ecology, biodiversity, research, and ecotourism potential, as well as to promote natural resource management initiatives under DRL.
Throughout the three-day programme, various activities were conducted, including briefing sessions on DaMaI, visits to the MBSC Gallery, Observation Tower, and Skybridge, and night activities such as Night Walk and Night Drive, which provided participants with direct exposure to rainforest biodiversity. The opening ceremony was officiated by Member of Parliament for Kalabakan, Datuk Andi Muhammad Suryady Bandy. At the same time, the “Kupi-Kupi” sharing session with local communities and government agencies provided a platform for discussions on the role of communities in managing and developing the DRL area.
Overall, the programme successfully achieved its objectives, with participants expressing high satisfaction and rating it as highly effective. The programme not only enhanced community awareness and support for DRL conservation efforts but also laid a strong foundation for long-term collaboration between agencies and local communities in environmental conservation initiatives.
Group Manager of CEMD, Dr. Waidi Sinun, explained the DaMaI Rainforest Landscape to the community.
Community leaders from Tongod posed for a group photo.
“Kupi-Kupi” Session with community members and government agencies.
Participants at the MBSC Nature Gallery.
Group photo with local communities, state government agencies, and the Group’s.
Exhibition corner.
The official launch of the Langom Control & Research Station marked an important milestone for INFAPRO’s commitment to conservation, research, and environmental education. The new facility strengthens Langom’s role as a centre for scientific research while opening its doors to students and teachers across Sabah as an interactive outdoor classroom. Set amidst pristine rainforest and exceptional biodiversity, Langom provides an inspiring setting for experiential learning and a deeper appreciation of Sabah’s natural heritage.
The official opening of the Langom Control & Research Station also marked the launch of the Adopt-a-School Programme, the first environmental education initiative to be conducted at the new facility. Implemented by Sabah Nature Club (SNC), the programme connects students with realworld conservation through immersive, hands-on learning, experiences in the rainforest.
Students explored the forest, discovered its rich flora and fauna, and gained a deeper understanding of biodiversity and the importance of maintaining healthy ecosystems. More than an educational activity, the programme strengthens collaboration between participating schools and the Group’s Conservation and Environmental Management Division (CEMD), reinforcing environmental awareness and stewardship at the grassroots level. As both a research centre and an outdoor classroom, Langom is set to inspire future generations to value and conserve Sabah’s natural heritage.
To promote the Langom Control & Research Station as a key environmental education destination in Sabah.
To establish strategic collaboration with schools in strengthening environmental education initiatives, aiming to produce a knowledgeable and environmentally responsible society.
To enhance awareness and understanding of the importance of nature conservation among school communities, particularly students.
To provide opportunities for students and teachers to participate in engaging and enjoyable activities within the Group’s conservation areas.
To encourage long-term involvement and stewardship towards environmental sustainability.
Three secondary schools in Lahad Datu were selected as the inaugural “Adopted Schools” under the programme: SMK Sepagaya, SM St. Dominic, and SMK Agaseh. The first programme at Langom involved 24 participants, with each school represented by six students and two accompanying teachers.
Group photo session held in conjunction with the official launch of the Langom Control & Research Station, involving selected school students, local communities, and the Group’s staff.
Presentation of a summary by students of SMK Agaseh explaining the outcomes of the environmental education activities.
A group photograph featuring three selected schools involved in the Adopted School Programme.
Visit by representatives of the Lions Club of KK Downtown and the Leos and Cubs Clubs, Puan Alyysa Lim and Puan Yap Li Ling, to the Yayasan Sabah Conservation Area to learn more about the activities and programmes of the SNC and to explore potential avenues for future collaboration.
Official opening of the Langom Control and Research Station, Lahad Datu, and the Special Environmental Education Programme and Adopted School Programme for schools in the Lahad Datu area.
Blind Trail Activity (82nd NOC)
Insect Identification Activity (83rd NOC)
Nature Orientation and Knowledge Enrichment Activities at
STEM Fiesta Exhibition Session at SMK Paul Kolopis.
the Imbak Canyon Studies Centre.
Talk and Exhibition at SK Api-Api Kota Kinabalu.
Environmental Education Programme and engagement activities with researchers from the Silam Scientific Expedition at the Silam Coastal Conservation Area (SCCA).
In 2025, the Group stands at a historic juncture. We are no longer merely navigating change; we are the architects of it. As we conclude the transformative Sabah Maju Jaya (SMJ) 1.0 cycle, our resolve is clear: to institutionalise prosperity. With 94% of our strategic initiatives successfully implemented, we have evolved into a global benchmark for how a state-driven vehicle can balance commercial ruthlessness with social compassion.
The Three Pillars of 2025 Resolve Commercial Excellence & Fiscal Sovereignty
Our investment arm, Innoprise Corporation Sdn. Bhd. (ICSB), continues to be the engine of Sabah's economy.
• Dividend Leadership: For the fourth consecutive year, ICSB has declared record-breaking dividends, including a landmark RM150 million contribution to the State Government.
• Sector Dominance: Our subsidiaries, such as Sabah Softwoods Berhad, have seen doubledigit growth, providing a RM70 million dividend in 2024 - a RM10 million increase from the previous year.
• Strategic Diversification: We have aggressively pivoted toward Oil and Gas and Renewable Energy, ensuring that our revenue streams are resilient against global commodity fluctuations.
People-Centric Empowerment
The heart of our mission remains the elevation of the Sabahan people. Education is our greatest dividend.
• Unprecedented Funding: Education funding reached RM77.83 million in 2025, a 188.5% increase since 2021, directly benefiting over 5,000 students.
• The TPNS Legacy: Since its inception in 2022, the Tabung Pendidikan Negeri Sabah (TPNS) has provided RM20 million in aid to more than 15,000 B40 students, ensuring that no talent is lost to poverty.
• Human Capital 2.0: Through the Sabah TVET Council, we are aligning our vocational training with the high-tech demands of the 2030 industrial landscape.
Conservation as a Global Commodity
We have redefined conservation from a cost centre to a strategic asset.
• Langom Control Centre: The 2025 opening of the Langom Research Station in Danum Valley is poised to become a regional hub for biodiversity studies, forest rehabilitation, and scientific research vital to protecting Sabah's tropical rainforest ecosystem.
• Biodiversity Protection: We remain the guardians of 750,000 hectares of Totally Protected Areas (TPAs), linking conservation directly to sustainable tourism revenue.
Conclusion: Shaping the Next Decade
As we look toward the 2026-2030 horizon, our commitment is unwavering. We are not just building infrastructure; we are building a legacy of self-reliance. Guided by the Hala Tuju Sabah Maju Jaya, we remain an agent of positive change - dynamic, committed, and forever caring for the people of Sabah.