Managing a World Heritage site set in a dense rainforest is no easy task.
Each trail and walkway requires meticulous planning, especially considering Mulu’s sensitivity to disruption.
Even minor modifications must consider the impact on riverbanks, vegetation, and the intricate balance of the forest ecosystem.
As such, Gerstner said the team must carefully evaluate the necessity, future maintenance costs, and potential long-term impact on the landscape with every new development.
He stressed that planning is paramount, and they exercise caution in terms of what man-made infrastructure is necessary to balance the preservation effort with the presentation effort, as well as keep track of future maintenance implications.
“In a forest, it is crucial not to build anything that isn’t absolutely necessary. This approach allows us to avoid overbuilding in such a sensitive environment.
“Every structure here has a cost — not just in dollars and cents, but in the potential environmental impact and the burden of maintenance,” he said.
Natural materials often decay more rapidly in a rainforest environment compared to a marine environment.
Wood quickly deteriorates, walkways can become dangerously slippery in just weeks, and fallen trees can devastate sections of paths.
Gerstner said his team, including two carpentry teams and general artisans, is constantly on their toes, responding to these conditions and keeping the national park’s access routes safe and navigable.
“The work and inspections are logged on a rotation, as well as from reports coming in from our guides and visitors,” he said.
In addition to physical interventions, Gerstner said they are constantly researching new sustainable materials, such as fibre resin plastics and non-rust cabling, to experiment with or upgrade existing infrastructure.
“We are always exploring innovative and sustainable materials to extend the lifespan of our infrastructure. For instance, the Belian wood walkways in the national park were enhanced with the simple yet effective addition of non-slip strips,” he said.
At the same time, Gerstner said Mulu, as a remote area, faces unique sustainability challenges, especially regarding energy use.
Addressing these concerns will require careful budget planning to ensure that future resources are allocated effectively, supporting long-term sustainability goals for the national park.
The Heart of Mulu’s Success
Mulu National Park’s success isn’t just due to its management strategies — it is deeply rooted in its relationship with the surrounding community.
In fact, Mulu has long been cited as a model of community-based conservation in international park management literature.
With a staffing policy that employs 98 per cent locals, the national park creates economic opportunities for remote communities, providing stable jobs, training, and a sense of pride in protecting this unique site.
Gerstner said the park’s community integration goes beyond direct employment.
He added that local boat operators, freelance guides, and artisans all contribute to the national park’s operations.
“For instance, the boat operator scheme has empowered local residents by giving them a stake in the park’s tourism economy, while the freelance guide system enables locals to share their knowledge with visitors.
“It is a model that is deeply entrenched in the community. Mulu was established with the goal of becoming a growth node for tourism-based economic development,” he said.
Gerstner said the SFC has recently engaged local rangers to assist with patrolling and enforcement within the national park.
These community rangers play a critical role in ensuring that visitors respect the environment and that the national park’s regulations are upheld.
“Through initiatives like these, we are demonstrating our commitment not just to preserving the landscapes, but also to enhancing the lives of the people who call this region home,” he said.
