KENINGAU: A sun bear cub, a protected wildlife species typically found deep in forest habitats, startled villagers after it was discovered climbing a coconut tree in Kampung Bariawa Laut.
The Fire and Rescue Department received an emergency call at 8.45am and promptly deployed a team with FRT and EMRS units to the scene.
The cub was safely captured and placed into a special cage without incident.
The animal was later handed over to Jabatan Hidupan Liar Sabah for further care and conservation action. The operation concluded at 9.10am.
According to firefighters, the cub appeared active and unusually calm for a wild animal, raising questions about how it ended up far from its natural habitat.
The Beruang Madu is a fully protected species under the Sabah Wildlife Conservation Enactment 1997, with illegal capture or possession carrying heavy penalties including fines and imprisonment.
The incident serves as a reminder of the ongoing risks faced by wildlife as human settlements continue to expand into natural habitats.
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