Curtin Malaysia empowers Mulu Park guides with advanced geology training

Miri, Sarawak – 28 April 2025 – A group of Sarawak Forestry Corporation (SFC) tour guides at Gunung Mulu National Park have gained advanced geological insights into the world-renowned Mulu Caves, thanks to a two-day advanced geology training workshop led by Dr. Dominique Dodge-Wan, Associate Professor in the Department of Applied Sciences at Curtin University Malaysia’s Faculty of Engineering and Science.

The workshop, a key component of Curtin Malaysia’s community engagement initiatives, aimed to enhance the guides’ understanding of cave formation processes, equipping them with scientific knowledge to enrich visitor experiences and support the conservation of Mulu’s underground ecosystems. Over 16 professional guides, primarily from local Mulu communities, including the Penan and Berawan ethnic groups, participated in the training.

 The initiative, proposed by Mulu National Park Manager Hein Gerstner and coordinated by Tourism Services Manager Bian Rumei, has been in planning since Mulu hosted the highly successful 2024 International Show Cave Association Conference. At the event, Dr. Dodge-Wan delivered an acclaimed presentation on tropical karst formations, sparking interest in further geological training for local guides.

“The Mulu Caves are among the world’s most spectacular karst landscapes, and it is crucial that those who showcase them to the world have a deep understanding of their geological significance,” said Dr. Dodge-Wan. “Through this training, we aimed to blend scientific insight with practical knowledge, enabling guides to offer visitors a richer, more informative experience.”

The workshop covered key aspects of Mulu’s geology, including the origins of its massive limestone formations and unique cave features. The guides explored why the UNESCO-listed caves, some of the largest and longest in the world, are globally significant. Using hands-on rock samples, maps, and cross-sections, they delved into the formation of the over 2000-metre-thick Melinau limestone and its transformation into one of the most cavernous rock formations on Earth.

One of the highlights was the discussion of rare geological phenomena found in Mulu’s caves, such as photokarren – bio-erosional features unique to tropical cave entrances – and crayback stalagmites, which are influenced by biological activity.

“The guides were particularly curious about how and why Mulu’s caves ‘grew’ to such incredible sizes,” added Dr. Dodge-Wan. “The answer lies in the dissolving action of rainwater and runoff from adjacent Mulu sandstones over millions of years.”

Beyond geological knowledge, the training reinforced the importance of conservation. With their enhanced expertise, Mulu Park guides can now better educate visitors on the fragile balance of Mulu’s cave ecosystems and the need to preserve them for future generations.

Dr Dodge-Wan has experience in cave and karst processes, having completed her doctoral research in karst hydrogeology in the southwest of France many years ago. However, she notes that while that area is known for its caves, such as the famous Dargilan and Aven Armand show caves, they are significantly less developed and less complex than those in Mulu, not to mention much smaller.

The training was part of an ongoing collaboration between Curtin Malaysia and Mulu National Park, ensuring that local communities benefit from cutting-edge scientific knowledge while playing a key role in conserving one of Sarawak’s most treasured natural wonders.

For more information, visit Curtin Malaysia’s website at curtin.edu.my or follow Curtin Malaysia on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, Twitter, LinkedIn, and TikTok.

Dr Dominique Dodge-Wan (standing left) with Mulu Park guides after a limestone geology lesson

A close-up of photokarren, a unique bio-erosional feature first identified in Mulu Caves

One of Mulu’s grand cave entrances, showcasing the extensive twilight zone and remarkable formations

Some of the workshop participants at Mulu Park Headquarters, with Dr Dominique (blue shirt) and Bian (on Dominique’s left)