MULU: The 2024 International Showcave Association (ISCA) conference serves as a distinguished platform for participants to explore and gain deeper insights into Mulu National Park, which is widely regarded as the crown jewel of Sarawak.
Deputy Minister in the Premier’s Department (Labour, Immigration and Project Monitoring), Datuk Gerawat Gala expressed his appreciation for the event being hosted in Mulu, underlining the park’s significance as Sarawak’s first Unesco World Heritage Site.
He also commended Mulu National Park manager Hein Gertsner on the success of bringing the event here.
“I would like to thank the ISCA for choosing Mulu to be the venue of the conference.
“This is a highly significant occasion, and I am particularly pleased that it is being held here in Mulu, which stands as one of the premier destinations in terms of caves and national parks,” he said.
He made these remarks in his welcoming speech during the opening ceremony for the conference at Mulu Marriot Resort and Spa here today (Sept 30).
Gerawat, who is also the Mulu assemblyman, pointed out that the conference managed to gather international cave experts from over 30 countries and present them with the opportunity to experience Mulu, not only as a destination for cave enthusiasts but also for tourists.
“We hope that this conference will help to further enhance and widen the publicity for Mulu National Park so that more tourists and cave enthusiasts will come here to witness for themselves what Mulu has to offer,” he said.
Touching on the recent recognition of Niah National Park as Sarawak’s second United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (Unesco) World Heritage Site, he said encouraged participants to also explore the national park.
“The Niah National Park is renowned for its profound historical significance as one of Southeast Asia’s earliest inhabited sites which dates back at least 40,000 years.
“Should participants have two or three days to spare, I strongly recommend a visit to Niah National Park,” he said.
Gerawat also encouraged participants to engage with the local community and immerse themselves in the cultural richness of the region.
“I hope that you will share your experiences with family and friends, and inspire them to visit Mulu, as well as other parts of Sarawak,” he said.
At the same time, Gertsner thanked Gerawat for his support and dedication.
“We are very grateful that Gerawat is very supportive and made the time to join us despite his busy schedule. His presence highlights the importance of our collective efforts in promoting and preserving the natural beauty of Mulu,” Gertsner said.
