Mulu National Park to host 3-day International Show Caves Association conference

MULU: The 2024 International Show Caves Association (ISCA) conference will be held from Sept 30 to Oct 2 at the Mulu National Park.

This marks the first time Borsamulu Park Management Sdn Bhd will host the event at the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) World Heritage Site.

Park manager Hein Gerstner said participants can look forward to exploring textbook caves and karst landscapes in this world-renowned heritage setting.

“They will have the opportunity to meet local tribes in the secluded Mulu area and savour delightful local cuisine. Additionally, they will connect with local cave experts and interact with renowned cave specialists from around the world.

“One of the conference’s main highlights will be the exploration of the Bornean rainforests and experiencing the famous bat migration, a unique spectacle that showcases Mulu National Park’s universal values,” he told the Sarawak Tribune.

Gerstner expressed hopes for the event to leave a lasting impression on the participants.

“We aim to send them home as ambassadors of Mulu, with a compelling message to visit Sarawak,” he added.

Deputy Minister in the Premier’s Department (Labour, Immigration and Project Monitoring) Datuk Gerawat Gala who is also Mulu assemblyman is scheduled to officiate at the opening ceremony for the conference on Sept 30.

In addition to presentations by speakers such as Honorary Fellow of the Royal Geographical Society Andy Eavis and the first Mulu National Park warden Oswald Braken Tisen among others, participants will have the opportunity to explore Mulu National Park through various activities.

The line-up includes adventure caving at Racer Cave, Lagang Cave, Stonehorse, Clearwater Connection, Fruitbat and Kenyalang Cave, as well as Sarawak Chambers.

Participants can also tour the Mulu Pinnacles, a spectacular formation of rock spires sculpted over millions of years by erosion and weathering.