Connectivity for the conservation of Borneo’s biodiversity

Ecological connectivity is fundamental to biodiversity conservation and climate adaptation, facilitating species movement, genetic exchange, and ecological function across landscapes. In Borneo, connectivity is increasingly threatened by deforestation, agricultural expansion, infrastructure development, and urbanization, leading to habitat fragmentation and isolation. This chapter examines the status of connectivity in Borneo, highlighting key threats, existing conservation initiatives, and strategies to enhance connectivity across the island’s diverse landscapes. Major impediments include widespread habitat loss from oil palm plantations, infrastructure projects such as the Pan-Borneo Highway, and the relocation of Indonesia’s capital to East Kalimantan. These developments reduce habitat permeability, disrupt wildlife corridors, and limit species’ ability to track climate-driven shifts in suitable habitat. Conservation efforts, including the Heart of Borneo Initiative and regional connectivity projects in Sabah and Sarawak, have sought to mitigate these impacts by expanding protected area networks, restoring habitat corridors, and integrating connectivity into land-use planning. However, challenges remain, including governance complexities, enforcement gaps, and financial constraints. This chapter outlines pathways for strengthening connectivity through large-scale land-use planning, Indigenous and community-led conservation, restoration and reforestation, and improved monitoring of connectivity effectiveness. A case study from Sabah demonstrates the potential for data-driven conservation planning to optimize protected area expansion while enhancing connectivity for climate resilience and species persistence. Ultimately, ensuring ecological connectivity in Borneo will require coordinated action across Brunei Darussalem, Malaysia, Indonesia, and alongside sustained investment in conservation science, policy, and enforcement.