Conference unveils the depths of showcaves

MULU: The 2024 International Showcave Association (ISCA) conference began on a high note, with the first two days packed with compelling presentations and memorable excursions, leaving participants eager to dive deeper into the world of showcaves and Mulu’s rich history.

Day one opened with an engaging presentation titled “History of Mulu Expedition” by Andy Eavis, an Honorary Fellow of the Royal Geographical Society.

Eavis, a renowned figure in cave exploration, captivated the audience with his knowledge and firsthand experiences.

Hein Gertsner

Following Eavis, the spotlight turned to the first warden of Mulu National Park and former Deputy Chief Executive Officer of Sarawak Forestry Corporation Oswald Braken Tisen and Sarawak Forestry Corporation’s Manager of Consultancy Services, Rambli Ahmad.

Their presentation, “History of Mulu National Park: Development of Showcaves in Mulu from 1986,” offered invaluable insights into the evolution of the park and its showcaves, delving into decades of conservation and tourism efforts.

Mulu National Park Warden Mark Tiden presented “The Significance of Mulu on the World Heritage Value Spectrum,” discussing Mulu’s past, present, and future importance in global conservation efforts.

His talk spurred thoughtful conversations among the participants on Mulu’s critical role in the world’s natural heritage.

The fourth presentation, “Show Caves Tourism & Adjacent Communities: Advantages & Disadvantages” by Mulu Park Tourism Services Manager Bian Rumei, examined the complex relationship between tourism and local communities.

Dr Dominique Dodge-Wan

Bian highlighted the benefits and challenges, sparking discussions on balancing economic development with cultural and environmental preservation.

Rounding off the day’s presentations, Mulu Park Senior Guide and MOCSAR (Mulu Cave Search and Rescue) leader Kenneth Nilong took the stage for an adrenaline-filled session on “Show Caves in Remote Areas: A Survival Guide & Rescue.”

His presentation offered crucial insights into the realities of cave rescue operations and the risks involved in exploring remote caves.

After the presentations, participants embarked on an awe-inspiring excursion into Deer Cave and Lang Cave where they witnessed the famous bat exodus that left many in awe.

Day two started with a cultural stop at the Batu Bungan Craft Market, where participants explored local handicrafts.

This was followed by a visit to Wind Cave and Clearwater Cave, two of Mulu’s most iconic showcaves.

The educational sessions resumed with a presentation by Associate Professor Dr Dominique Dodge-Wan, who explored the unique characteristics of tropical karst landscapes and how they differ from other geological formations.

Mulu National Park Manager Hein Gertsner then shared his expertise on the critical role climate change plays in showcave management, shedding light on the challenges ahead.

Attendees were also treated to a video presentation by Ellen McArthur, a former research liaison and community education officer at Mulu National Park.

Her presentation, “Bats in Mulu: Biodiversity & Conservation,” provided a closer look at the park’s vital bat populations and ongoing conservation efforts.

Next, John Brush from the Australasian Cave and Karst Management Association presented on managing visitor impacts in wild caves, offering an Australian perspective on sustainable tourism practices.

The day concluded with a thought-provoking presentation delivered by Sherman Saufi, the Assistant Curator at the Sarawak Museum Department.

His talk on “Niah Cave Archaeology” delved into the ancient history of one of Sarawak’s most significant archaeological sites, leaving participants with much to ponder.

As the second day ended, the ISCA conference continued to build momentum, promising even more exciting discoveries on its third day.