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Scientific name:
Bos javanicus lowi
Conservation status:
Critically Endangered (IUCN Red List)
The Bornean banteng is a rare and elusive wild cattle species, known for its:
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White "stockings" on its legs
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Large white rump patch
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Distinctively curved horns
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Compact, muscular build and darker coat compared to other banteng subspecies
These physical traits make it not only striking in appearance but also genetically distinct from its relatives.
Endemic to Borneo, the Bornean banteng is one of three recognised subspecies of bantengs, alongside the Burmese and Javan bantengs. In Malaysia, the Bornean banteng is found only in Sabah, where its population is scattered across several forest reserves. In the southeast, they inhabit areas like Tabin and Kalumba Wildlife Reserves in Lahad Datu and Kinabatangan. Central Sabah hosts populations in reserves such as Deramakot, Tangkulap, Segaliud-Lokan, Malua, and the Maliau Basin Conservation Area. Smaller populations are also recorded in the southwest (Sipitang Forest Reserve) and the north and northeast, including Paitan and Sugut Forest Reserves in the Beluran district.
These fragmented habitats highlight the urgent need for coordinated conservation efforts across the region.
Map shows four management units of banteng: a) Sipitang, b) Paitan-Sugut; c) Tabin-Kulamba; d) Central Forest, with potentially a fifth management unit in the Tawau Hills forests (brown dot)
Genetic studies show that the Bornean banteng is closely related to the wild Indian gaur (Bos gaurus), but it is genetically and physically distinct. This makes it vital to conserve the Bornean banteng as a unique subspecies, not just as part of the broader banteng population
Monitoring
Bornean bantengs are shy and hard to spot in the wild. To study them without disturbing their natural behavior, WWF-Malaysia uses special motion-activated cameras, called camera traps, placed in forests where bantengs are known to roam. These cameras automatically take photos or videos when an animal passes by. This helps us:
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Count how many bantengs are in an area
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Learn how they move, live, and interact
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Spot new calves and track their growth
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Understand which areas they use the most
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Detect threats like poaching or habitat loss
Every photo is a small but important piece of the puzzle in protecting this endangered species. Camera traps allow us to observe these rare wild cattle safely and quietly—without ever needing to see them face-to-face.
Policy Advocacy
WWF-Malaysia supports strong, science-based policies to protect the Bornean banteng. In partnership with the Sabah Wildlife Department and others, we contributed to the development of the Banteng Action Plan 2019–2028, a strategic roadmap for conservation in Sabah.
In 2024, we facilitated the mid-term review of the action plan to assess progress and refine priorities, ensuring actions remain effective and aligned with current challenges. This collaborative approach helps guide long-term protection efforts for one of Sabah’s most endangered wild species.
Banteng Action Plan
The goal of this Bornean Banteng Action Plan 2019-2028 is to provide direction and guidance on the strategies, priorities and actions for banteng conservation at the state level for the period 2019-2028 (10 years). The objective of the Action Plan is to promote the safeguarding of sufficient habitat with adequate carrying capacity, the increase of the banteng population by approximately 10% by 2028 and the long-term survival of the four banteng regional management units.