Perlis: The Perlis Forestry Department has successfully identified 83 previously unexplored caves along the Nakawan Range through a 21-day inventory study conducted for documentation purposes.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Perlis Forestry director Ag Shaffie Ag Ahmadni revealed that six of these caves are particularly beautiful and unique with potential to be developed into new ecotourism attractions. However, further assessment and evaluation by relevant experts will be required to determine their suitability and associated risks.
Ag Shaffie noted that one of the caves contains a pool that may be suitable for cave-diving activities. He emphasized that while a cave's beauty is a consideration, it does not guarantee its viability as a tourist destination. A comprehensive evaluation of both potential and risks is necessary, as high-risk caves may not be suitable despite their attractiveness.
These remarks were made after the closing ceremony of the Nakawan Rainforest Festival, held in conjunction with this year's state-level International Forests Day celebration at Bukit Ayer Forest Eco Park, within the Sungai Batu Pahat Ecotourism Complex. The ceremony was officiated by Raja of Perlis, Tuanku Syed Sirajuddin Jamalullail, and attended by Raja Muda of Perlis, Tuanku Syed Faizuddin Putra Jamalullail.
Ag Shaffie explained that before any cave is opened for tourism, a comprehensive cave management master plan will be developed. This plan will classify the caves according to their fossil value, archaeological artifacts, biodiversity, and tourism potential. He acknowledged the complexity of the planning process, which involves determining suitable caves, timelines for opening, and necessary improvements for access and facilities. Currently, only two caves, Gua Kelam and Gua Wang Burma, serve as ecotourism destinations in Perlis.
The inventory study's 21-day fieldwork involved eight forest community groups in Perlis, each bringing specialized expertise and collaborating with support from the state Forestry Department. At the closing ceremony, the Perlis Forestry Department received recognition from The Malaysia Book of Records for achieving the record for 'Most Caves Surveyed in a Speleological Expedition' with the discovery of the 83 caves.