What makes caves so captivating that people globally are drawn to explore them?
Caves offer a rare glimpse into Earth’s hidden landscapes, showcasing natural formations sculpted over millennia.
Their allure lies not only in their breathtaking beauty but also in the sense of mystery and discovery they evoke.
Each cave holds unique geological features, ecosystems, and historical significance thus making them a treasure trove for adventure seekers, scientists, and nature lovers alike.
To ensure these fragile environments are preserved for future generations, extensive efforts have been made to safeguard and conserve caves worldwide.
Strict conservation practices, responsible tourism policies, and collaborations between governments and environmental organisations help protect these delicate ecosystems from degradation while allowing people to appreciate their wonders sustainably.
In an exclusive interview, the President of the International Show Cave Association (ISCA) Dr Friedrich Oedl shared valuable insights into the evolution of ISCA, his lifelong connection with caves, and the resounding success of the recent 2024 ISCA conference held in Mulu, Sarawak.
With nearly 100 participants globally, the event marked a milestone for ISCA, drawing attention to Mulu’s globally renowned cave systems and solidifying its place on the international stage of cave exploration and conservation.
Hailing from Austria, Friedrich’s fascination with caves has deep family roots.
He recounted growing up near the world’s largest ice cave, Eisriesenwelt, in Salzburg, which his family has managed for generations.
“Our family runs the largest ice cave in the world, and I have been visiting the cave since I was almost a baby,” he said.
Friedrich’s personal story is closely intertwined with the world of caves, and his father’s involvement as part of ISCA’s founding committee in 1990 paved the way for his future leadership in the organisation.
“I grew into this world of caves naturally. My father was very involved, and I began accompanying him to conferences, learning from the people in the field, and soon I became deeply involved myself,” he said.
After serving as ISCA’s Vice President for four years, he took on the mantle of President two years ago.
The Purpose and Growth of ISCA
Friedrich explained that ISCA was born to show cave managers worldwide to share experiences, learn from each other, and improve cave management practices.
He pointed out that show caves across different regions have diverse experiences and challenges thus the association carries out numerous knowledge exchanges between cave managers from Europe, the United States, China and other countries.
“ISCA was created to focus on the business and management of show caves.
“The association has grown to become an international platform, where we meet every two years for conferences or congresses, to discuss everything from business development to conservation efforts,” he said.
Friedrich also reflected on the uniqueness of the ISCA community, calling it more than just a professional organisation.
“It is a friendly and funny group. We all love each other, and it is always a joy to meet as often as possible. These gatherings provide a crucial space for cave managers to connect, share best practices, and foster friendships,” he said.
ISCA’s Conference in Mulu – A Significant Milestone
This year’s ISCA conference in Mulu, Sarawak, marked a significant moment for the organisation.
The idea of bringing the event to Mulu originated six years ago during a conference in Italy when Friedrich suggested the idea after learning about the unique cave systems of Sarawak.
He had learned about Mulu from Mulu National Park manager Hein Gerstner.
“I knew Hein from previous encounters, and we both felt that Mulu was the perfect location for a conference,” he recalled.
Mulu National Park’s breathtaking caves, combined with its world heritage status, made it an ideal destination for an international gathering of cave managers and experts.
Despite initial concerns about the distance and potential low turnout, the conference drew nearly 100 participants everywhere.
“We were scared about how many people would make the long journey here, but it turned out to be a great success with the number of attendees exceeding expectations,” he said.
The occasion provided attendees with a chance to discover Mulu’s renowned caves, including the mythical spectacle of bats emerging from Deer Cave.
“You can’t fully grasp the scale of these caves until you are here and I was amazed when I witnessed the never-ending flight of bats coming out of Deer Cave.
“The high level of organisation here was unexpected and impressive. The sheer size of the caves, combined with the natural spectacle of the bats, made this an unforgettable experience,” he remarked.
Friedrich commended the meticulous infrastructure within Mulu’s cave, noting that the extensive pathways and visitor facilities significantly enhance the experience of exploring the diverse caves available.
Looking Ahead – Expanding ISCA’s Reach in Malaysia
When asked about the future, Friedrich expressed his hope of returning to Sarawak and continuing to explore more of the region’s caves.
“We have only scratched the surface of what Sarawak has to offer. There’s so much more to discover, and I’d love to return.
“The warmth and high humidity here are quite different from Austria’s cool climate, but it is part of the adventure,” he said.
Moreover, Friedrich also pointed out the importance of expanding ISCA’s membership in Malaysia, particularly among the numerous caves in Sarawak.
“Currently, only Mulu National Park is a member of ISCA, but there is so much potential here. We hope this conference will inspire other caves and cave associations in Malaysia to join our global community,” he said.
With Sarawak boasting over 40 national parks, Friedrich encouraged local cave authorities and organisations, such as the Sarawak Forestry Corporation – the custodian of national parks and wildlife controller – to consider joining the association.
“Being part of ISCA allows for knowledge exchange and collaboration on a global scale, benefiting cave management and conservation,” he said.
The Austrian Ice Cave
Friedrich also took the opportunity to speak about his family’s legacy managing Austria’s iconic ice cave, which draws thousands of visitors every year.
“We don’t have many ice caves, so it is exceptional. The unique geological and climatic conditions of the Alps allow the cave to maintain its icy interior, with temperatures hovering around zero degrees Celsius year-round.
“It is a fascinating natural phenomenon, and during the summer months, visitors can experience the ice formations up close,” he said.
The cave, which is only open from May to October attracts around 160,000 visitors.
Despite the limited season, its popularity continues to grow, with tourists from all over the world coming to witness its frozen beauty.
“It is a unique experience, and I am proud to be part of preserving and sharing this natural wonder with others,” he said.
Building a Global Community of Cave Enthusiasts
As the President of ISCA, Friedrich remains dedicated to fostering a global community of cave enthusiasts, cave managers, and conservationists.
“ISCA is about more than just business. It is about creating connections between people who share a passion for caves and their preservation,” he said.
Looking forward, Friedrich hopes to see more members from across the globe, including Malaysia, join the association and continue the tradition of learning from each other.
“As ISCA continues to grow, we look forward to bringing more caves and their stories to the forefront of global awareness, ensuring that these treasures are protected and appreciated for generations to come,” he said.
