Remembering Betty
2016 - 2025
Betty's Story
It is with heavy hearts that we share the sad news of Betty’s passing. Many of our supporters will remember her from our adoption programme between 2019 and 2022, while others may recognise her name and face from newsletters, update emails, and most recently, the June photograph in our 2025 calendar.
Betty’s Malay name, Begia, comes from the word bahagia, meaning ‘happy’. She was discovered alone and vulnerable on the banks of the Kinabatangan River in Sabah at just three years old. Her mother was gone, and it was clear she needed urgent rescue and care.
Though timid at first, Betty soon found her confidence at the indoor nursery, where she bonded with other young orangutans. A natural climber, she would often scale the ropes and jungle gym to reach the highest points she could find.
Betty’s time in rehabilitation at Sepilok was a remarkable success. Within just three years, she had learned the vital skills needed to thrive on her own - climbing, nest-building, and foraging - and began living independently in the surrounding Sepilok-Kabili Reserve. Although she still visited the centre from time to time, she was well on her way to a life in the wild.
Tragically, one of our staff members found Betty unresponsive and badly injured on the ground within the reserve. Sadly, she succumbed to her wounds which were believed to have been caused by another animal.
Betty was known for her expressive face, inquisitive nature, and hearty appetite. She will be deeply missed by all who knew and cared for her. Thanks to the dedication of the staff at Sepilok, she was given a second chance that she embraced.
