The 12th Asian Bird Fair in Kota Kinabalu has just wrapped up and we are still on a hangover!
The event formally started with a dinner at the roof deck restaurant Skydex of the ibis Styles Kota Kinabalu hotel. Under the fairy lights, delegates gamely played a Birder Bingo and interacted with each other finding people to match the boxes in their card.
A short program was held and ended in a token exchange between delegates and Sabah Birdwatchers Association Vice-President and Organizing Chairperson Roger Rajah and President Ron Pudin.
At the Sabah International Convention Center
The event was organized by the Asian Bird Fair and the Sabah Birdwatchers Association, and was held at the Sabah International Convention Center. For 2 days, crowds of all ages dropped by the many exhibition booths interacting with delegates from around the world.
The opening ceremony on the first day was attended by special guests including Datuk Christina Liew, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Environment Sabah, Yang Berusaha Mr Murad bin Abd Rashid, Senior Principal Assistant Secretary to the Ministry of Tourism, Culture & Environment Sabah, and Madam Josephine Chai, Senior Marketing Manager of Sabah Tourism Board Representing Puan Noredah Othman CEO of Sabah Tourism Board.
The keynote speaker was Noah Strycker, author of “Birding Without Borders” who shared his experience around the world to see as many birds in one year. Forums and talks were also scheduled throughout the day and activities for children were available at the venue.
The first day culminated in a delicious dinner with a cultural show at the Kampung Nelayan restaurant. Delegates gamely participated in some dances and even tried using a traditional blow dart!
The second day ended with the Turnover Dinner hosted by the Philippines – the next host of the Asian Bird Fair in 2024!
Field Trip
Of course, the delegates were brought out on a field trip to Kinabalu Park on the third day! The cool and crip weather made for great birding with highlights seen such as the Whitehead’s Trogon and Whitehead’s Broadbill.
After a delicious lunch, the delegates were brought to the Shangri-la Rasa Ria and were allowed to explore the nature trails before officially closing the event with a spectacular buffet dinner.
The 12th ABF in Kota Kinabalu ended so soon, many still wanting to stay more days to explore the wonderful host city. But all good things must come to an end and as delegates flew back to their respective home countries, they took with them amazing memories of time well-spent in Kota Kinabalu.
Celebrating Birds Across Borders 