Indigenous knowledge is a knowledge system uniquely belonged to a particular indigenous group. Indigenous knowledge is tacit in nature as its transfer is implied through actions or statements. It is inherited from generations to generations mainly by oral traditions such as folklores, traditional songs and dances, myths, and rituals. Therefore, this study aimed to explore the approaches in transfer of indigenous knowledge related to practices in biodiversity conservation among Dusuns and Bajaus. This study applied qualitative research design, which was carried out in Kota Belud, Sabah. Semi-structured interviews and focus group discussion were employed to collect primary data with six informants (n=6). The data was then thematically analysed with the aid of Nvivo 8. The findings of this study revealed that the transfer of indigenous knowledge occurred in collaboration with relevant parties, establishment of cultural sites, implementation of cultural law, and social events. In light of this, this study also discovered challenges that hindered the transfer of indigenous knowledge such as change of indigenous livelihood practices, change of religious beliefs, contact with dominant and non-indigenous groups, and economic development pressure. Finally, this study concludes with recommendations for comprehensive management of indigenous knowledge that supported sustainable practices in biodiversity conservation.

In the context of biodiversity conservation, the application of indigenous knowledge provides insights into how indigenous peoples operate and coexist with the natural environment without imposing severe impacts and essentially sustain the resources for generations. Due to its oral and practical nature in transmission, indigenous peoples find it difficult to maintain the traditional pathway of indigenous knowledge transfer. Moreover, indigenous knowledge is perceived to be extinct sooner or later. This phenomenon calls for indigenous knowledge documentation. This study aimed to explore the perspectives of the Dusun and Bajau people with regard to documentation of their indigenous knowledge. This study applied qualitative research design, which was carried out in Kota Belud, Sabah. Semi-structured interviews were employed to collect primary data with six informants (n = 6). The data was then thematically analysed with the aid of Nvivo 10. The findings in this study revealed that the informants acknowledged that indigenous knowledge gradually vanished. Following that, they expressed a positive attitude pertaining to the documentation of indigenous knowledge. At the same time, informants conveyed some of the possible constraints in documenting indigenous knowledge, such as biopiracy, lack of support from authorities, and lack of initiatives among indigenous peoples. Finally, this study concludes by presenting some recommendations to address the issues of indigenous knowledge documentation.