The lush greenery of the tropical rainforests in the Mulu National Park offers a refreshing escape, particularly for those accustomed to the exhaust fumes of vehicles and constant hustle and bustle of urban concrete jungles.
Situated in Miri division, Sarawak, the 52,864-hectare park is dominated by Mount Mulu, majestically reaching the clouds at a height of 2,736 metres. This peak also encompasses a cave system spanning some 295 kilometres (explored so far by researchers) and is renowned for its breathtaking scenery and rich biodiversity, including cave swallows and bats.
Recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this park attracts researchers eager to expand their knowledge as well as visitors seeking recreational or adventurous activities, whether in its rugged gorges or fast-flowing rivers.
This writer was among a team of 21 media representatives, including from France, Brunei and Indonesia, invited to participate in the Mulu Sarawak Exploration and Media Dinner Programme from Dec 5 to 10, organised by the Sarawak Tourism Board .
PENAN VILLAGE
Shortly after the group landed at Mulu Airport, which is surrounded by pristine rainforest, they were taken to their accommodation at the Mulu Marriott Resort & Spa, located along the banks of the Melinau River near the border between Malaysia and Brunei. During the 20-minute journey, they passed through a Penan village, offering a glimpse into this indigenous community’s unique way of life.
According to tour guide Henry Lah Lucin, who is himself a Penan, there are only two Penan villages in Mulu: Kampung Long Iman, home to about 400 residents, and Kampung Batu Bungan, with a population of 360.
Media representatives from Malaysia, France, Brunei, and Indonesia pose in front of the entrance to the pathway leading to Deer Cave, renowned for the phenomenon known as the "bat exodus."
The media group’s first day in Mulu National Park began with an exploration of two of its four famed caves, Deer Cave or Gua Rusa and Lang Cave, located about a 15-minute drive from the resort.
The Deer Cave’s lush tropical rainforest, brimming with rare flora and fauna species rarely found in other places, was mesmerising. The two-kilometre-long Deer Cave has minimal natural lighting and serves as a sanctuary for various species of bats. But, unlike in movies, swarms of bats did not fly out dramatically in response to human presence – a phenomenon known as bat exodus – when the journalists stepped into the cave.
The stalagmite and stalactite formations inside Wind Cave continue to captivate every visitor, especially geology enthusiasts who admire nature's artistry.
Lang Cave, meanwhile, is dominated by striking formations of stalactites and stalagmites of varying sizes, offering a surreal experience for tourists, especially for geo-tourism enthusiasts.
To ensure a comfortable adventure, visitors are advised to bring essentials such as a flashlight, raincoat and drinking water, and wear appropriate attire, including rubber-soled shoes.
BLOWPIPES AND MORE CAVES
On their second day in Mulu, the journalists embarked on a ride on the Melinau River in a long boat steered by a local villager. Their first destination was a Penan village market located on the riverbank.
At the Kampung Batu Bungan market, they were warmly welcomed by the Penan community, who showcased an array of handmade crafts for sale.
STB Media Night 2024 brought together media partners to celebrate collaboration and shared successes in promoting Sarawak’s unique offerings.
Henry also introduced his father, Lucin Jeluman, a traditional blowpipe maker.
“Blowpipes are typically made from belian wood because of its hardness. It usually takes three days to craft one,” explained Lucin, adding he sourced the wood from the surrounding rainforest in the national park.
Next on the itinerary was Wind Cave or Gua Angin.
Henry explained that the cave earned its name because of the gentle breeze one can feel in a narrow passage inside. This passage leads visitors to an open chamber resembling a gallery – called ‘King’s Room’ – which is adorned with geological wonders like stalagmites and limestone columns.
A five-minute boat ride from Wind Cave is Gua Air Jernih (Clear Water Cave), said to be the longest cave in Asia, stretching an impressive 107 kilometres from the entrance to deep inside. This natural marvel is home to an underground river system, with the soothing sound of rushing water audible from afar.
True to its name, the crystal-clear water of the subterranean river is as transparent as glass, offering a refreshing and serene ambiance.
LONGEST CANOPY
The world's longest canopy walkway, spanning 480 metres and soaring 20 metres above the forest floor, marked the final highlight of the media programme at Mulu National Park.
The world's longest canopy walkway is one of the main attractions of Mulu National Park, offering a unique experience to bring you closer to the beauty of the pristine tropical rainforest.
The suspended walkway, built across a canopy of lush trees, has its supporting structures firmly anchored to sturdy forest trees like meranti, ara and tapang. Far below, a river flows gently, adding to the tranquil yet exhilarating experience of crossing the walkway.
Though the visit to Mulu National Park was brief, it was immensely fulfilling to witness the unparalleled beauty of nature. The unique landscapes and rich biodiversity, with fauna and flora found only in Mulu National Park, are treasures that must be preserved and safeguarded.
For nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike, Mulu National Park is an unmissable destination.
