Kota Kinabalu Wetlands, a 24-hectare patch of mangrove forest, was designated as a bird sanctuary by the Sabah government in September 1996 to help foster better understanding and awareness on the value of wetlands. In 1998, it was declared a State Cultural Heritage Site.
Kota Kinabalu Wetlands is managed by Sabah Wetlands Conservation Society. Guided by its objectives, operations at the centre is focused on creating awareness and support from the general public on the importance of mangroves (and other wetland ecosystems), through conservation, education, recreation, tourism and research activities.
This centre is the first centre to be placed under the management of SWCS.