Borneo

About

Borneo is the third-largest island in the world, covering an area of approximately 748,168 km². It is located in the Malay Archipelago and is bounded by the South China Sea, Sulu Sea, Celebes Sea, and Java Sea. The island is divided among three countries: Malaysia (Sabah and Sarawak), Indonesia (Kalimantan), and Brunei. Borneo's landscape is largely mountainous, with Mount Kinabalu being the highest peak at 4,095 meters. The island is also home to extensive river systems, including the Kapuas and Mahakam rivers. Borneo is renowned for its ancient rainforests, which are among the oldest in the world, estimated to be around 140 million years old. These forests support a diverse array of wildlife, including orangutans, proboscis monkeys, and pygmy elephants. The island's biodiversity is incredibly rich, with over 15,000 plant species and numerous endemic animals. The rainforests play a crucial role in maintaining ecological balance and supporting local communities. However, these ecosystems face threats from deforestation and habitat loss, emphasizing the need for conservation efforts to protect Borneo's unique natural heritage.