Situated in Miri, Sarawak, the 52,864ha park is dominated by Gunung Mulu, which majestically reaches the clouds at 2,736m.

This peak also encompasses a cave system spanning some 295km (explored thus far by researchers) and renowned for its breathtaking scenery and rich biodiversity, including cave swallows and bats.

Recognised as a Unesco World Heritage Site, the 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 part of a team of 21 media representatives, including from France, Brunei and Indonesia, invited to participate in an exploration programme organised by the Sarawak Tourism Board last month.

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, himself a Penan, there are only two such villages in Mulu: Kampung Long Iman, home to about 400 residents, and Kampung Batu Bungan, with a population of 360.

The 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.

Gua Rusa’s lush tropical rainforest, brimming with rare flora and fauna species rarely found in other places, is mesmerising. The 2km-long cave has minimal natural lighting and serves as a sanctuary for various species of bats.

Note, however, that unlike in movies, swarms of bats do not fly out dramatically in response to human presence – a phenomenon known as bat exodus.

Gua Lang, meanwhile, is dominated by striking formations of stalactites and stalagmites of varying sizes, offering a surreal experience for tourists, especially for geotourism 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, more caves

On the second day, the entourage 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. Henry also introduced his father, Lucin Jeluman, a traditional blowpipe maker.

“Blowpipes are typically crafted from belian wood because of its hardness. It usually takes three days to make one,” Lucin shared, adding that he sources wood from the surrounding rainforest.

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 the narrow passage inside.

This passage leads visitors to an open chamber resembling a gallery – called the “King’s Room” – which is adorned with stalagmites and limestone columns.

A five-minute boat ride from Gua Angin is Gua Air Jernih (Clear Water Cave), said to be the longest cave in Asia, stretching an impressive 107km 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 480m and soaring 20m above the forest floor, marked the final highlight of the programme at Mulu National Park.

The suspended walkway, built across a canopy of lush trees, has 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.

All in all, while the visit 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.