From The Star
earthisland.org/borneo/news
Over-exploitation of edible birds’ nest in the Mulu National Park may inflict irreparable damage to the ecosystem in the world heritage site. Royal Mulu Resort manager January Kohli said exploiting the nests in the park would only serve to upset the natural biochemistry of the unique cave systems in the world-renowned destination.
“The greater issue of concern must be the impact to the environment due to these excessive birds’ nest collection.
“The potential damage to the environment in Mulu outweighs the benefits of collecting the birds’ nest,” she said when interviewed.
Kohli was asked to comment on recent reports of illegal harvesting of birds’ nest by certain groups in the Mulu Caves.
The state Tourism Ministry and National Parks and Wildlife Department are investigating claims that outsiders may be involved.
Kohli said the authorities must also consider if the birds’ nest collection industry would harm the image of Mulu.
“Mulu has already been declared a world heritage site. This image needs to be preserved. Exploiting the natural resources will create a bad image among tourists,” she said.
Birds’ nest collection is a lucrative business in the state, but the activities are licensed. Collectors who are issued permits by the department are only allowed to harvest limited amount of the birds’ nest.
Demands by restaurants and families for birds’ nest usually surge during festive seasons because of its supposedly health-enhancing qualities.
