Our Story
The extraordinary story of Maliau Basin’s transformation from hidden wilderness to globally recognized conservation area and research center.
The Discovery
In the late 1980s, a helicopter pilot flying over south-central Sabah made a remarkable discovery—a massive, circular basin hidden beneath the rainforest canopy. This pristine wilderness had remained virtually untouched by human presence for millions of years.
A natural wonder revealed
The 588.4 km² Maliau Basin resembles a volcanic caldera but is actually a unique sedimentary formation of sandstone and mudstone. Encircled by steep cliffs reaching over 1,675 meters, this “Lost World” remained naturally protected from human intrusion throughout history. Its almost perfectly circular, 25-kilometer diameter creates a distinct saucer shape that distinguishes it from surrounding terrain across Borneo. Located just above the Equator, approximately 190 km from Tawau and 40 km north of the Indonesian border, this hidden world awaited scientific exploration.
Protecting paradise
Recognizing the basin’s extraordinary ecological value, extensive conservation efforts began approximately 25 years ago. Yayasan Sabah spearheaded initiatives to establish comprehensive protection for this irreplaceable wilderness, transforming it into a world-class conservation area. The establishment required collaboration between government agencies, scientific institutions, and local communities committed to preserving this natural treasure. Today, ongoing efforts seek to nominate Maliau Basin alongside Danum Valley and Imbak Canyon as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with anti-poaching patrols protecting the ecosystem from illegal activities.
A living laboratory
The basin’s unique geography created diverse habitats from lowland dipterocarp forests to montane cloud forests. With Malaysia’s highest concentration of waterfalls per unit area, including the magnificent seven-tiered Maliau Falls, it offers unparalleled opportunities for scientific research and conservation education. Home to rare endemic species, Asian elephants, orangutans, and over 270 bird species, this pristine ecosystem serves as a critical refuge for biodiversity while feeding the mighty Kinabatangan River system.
Why Maliau Basin is important
Untouched Forest
Maliau Basin is one of the few remaining areas virtually untouched by man—not just in Sabah and Malaysia but in the whole world!
Water Source
Is the catchment of one of the headwaters of Sabah’s largest and most important rivers – the Kinabatangan.
Plant Diversity
Scientific Value
Biodiversity Hotspot
Maliau Basin Conservation Area is also a fantastic birding destination for avid birdwatchers, photographers, and nature enthusiasts.
Unique Geology
Our mission today
Through partnerships with government, institutions, and communities, we continue protecting this ancient sanctuary. Every visitor becomes part of our conservation story, helping preserve Borneo’s Lost World for future generations. Our commitment extends beyond protection to active research, education, and sustainable tourism that demonstrates how conservation and community benefit can work hand in hand.