Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria botanist Dr Alastair Robinson has received the Best International Researcher award at the Sabah Biodiversity Research Awards 2026 in Malaysia for his contribution to the discovery and conservation of one of the world's rarest carnivorous plants.

The award honours a collaborative research project co-led by Dr Robinson and Malaysian botanist Alviana Damit, which led to the discovery and formal scientific description of Nepenthes pongoides, a critically endangered tropical pitcher plant found in the rainforests of Sabah, Malaysian Borneo.

Named after the orangutan (Pongo pygmaeus) because of the distinctive rust-coloured hairs covering its leaves, Nepenthes pongoides is among the largest pitcher plants ever discovered. Its extraordinary pitchers can grow up to 45 centimetres long and hold more than two litres of water, creating miniature ecosystems that support a diverse range of wildlife.

Despite its remarkable size and appearance, the species remains exceptionally rare. Only 39 mature plants have been documented in the wild, highlighting the urgency of conservation efforts. The research team provided the evidence needed to formally describe the species and assess it as Critically Endangered, helping to guide future protection and management strategies.

The discovery attracted international attention after Dr Robinson and colleagues located the plant in remote mountain rainforests in Sabah, revealing a spectacular species that had remained hidden from science despite its impressive size.

The award also recognises the importance of international collaboration in biodiversity conservation. By combining local knowledge and leadership with specialist botanical expertise, the team was able to deepen scientific understanding of this extraordinary species while supporting efforts to safeguard Malaysia's unique botanical heritage.

For Dr Robinson, who grew up in Malaysia, the recognition is particularly meaningful.

Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria congratulates Dr Robinson, Alviana Damit and the wider project team on this significant achievement and their contribution to the conservation of one of the world's most remarkable and endangered plant species.