Sukau Rainforest Lodge (SRL) is proud to announce its double victory at the Asian Ecotourism Network International Ecotourism Awards (AEN-IEA) 2025, held on 10 October 2025 in New Delhi, India, during the Global Wildlife Fair. The lodge was recognised for its outstanding contributions in two key categories: Community Benefit and Ecotourism Promotion.
Representing Sukau Rainforest Lodge at the awards ceremony was Managing Director, Mr. Timothy Teo, who accepted the honours on behalf of the lodge’s dedicated team and the local Orang Sungai community.
Celebrating Excellence in Ecotourism
The AEN-IEA awards highlight exceptional achievements in sustainable and responsible tourism across Asia. Sukau Rainforest Lodge’s recognition under the Community Benefit category celebrates its long-standing commitment to uplifting the local community through employment, training, and sustainable livelihood opportunities.
Meanwhile, the award for Ecotourism Promotion acknowledges the lodge’s continuous efforts in raising global awareness about the importance of conservation, sustainable travel, and responsible wildlife encounters in Borneo’s Kinabatangan region.
Empowering Communities and Protecting Nature
Since its founding in 1995 by Founder Mr. Albert Chin Kion Teo, Sukau Rainforest Lodge has embraced a philosophy of “Sustaining nature and empowering communities” — working hand in hand with the local Orang Sungai people to build a tourism model that benefits both the environment and its stewards. From wildlife conservation projects to education and community development programmes, the lodge has become a living example of ecotourism done right.
A Heartfelt Win
“These awards are not just a recognition of our work, but a celebration of everyone who has been part of our journey,” said Timothy Teo, Managing Director of Sukau Rainforest Lodge. “Our heartfelt thanks go to our incredible team, the local community, and our guests who continue to believe in the power of responsible tourism. It is our dream to share Borneo and its amazing biodiversity and wildlife to future generations to come. Ecotourism still remains today the best force for good to bring that dream to life and this honour inspires us onwards in our conviction.”
About the Asian Ecotourism Network International Ecotourism Awards
The Asian Ecotourism Network (AEN) is a regional platform dedicated to promoting and connecting responsible tourism operators across Asia. The International Ecotourism Awards (AEN-IEA) recognise exemplary practices and innovations that contribute to sustainable development, conservation, and community well-being.
About Sukau Rainforest Lodge
Nestled along the banks of the Kinabatangan River in Sabah, Malaysian Borneo, Sukau Rainforest Lodge is an award-winning eco-lodge dedicated to conservation, comfort, and community. Recognised globally for its sustainable operations and authentic wildlife experiences, the lodge continues to be a beacon of hope for ecotourism in the region.
