Madai Caves
The
Tabin Wildife Reserve I Madai
Caves I Tingkayu
& Baturong I Lahad
Datu Map
Madai Caves is another important place for birds' nests. The village
at the entrance of the largest cave comes alive twice a year when
the Idahan community comes to harvest the birds' nests from various
parts of the caves. It is a special communal event, almost like
a festival. The harvesting is a dramatic event with the men risking
their lives to prise precious nests from the cave roof. Nowadays,
the harvesters are hired. The Idahans have held their rights to
the Madai Caves for over 20 generations.
In August 2000, after offering special sacrifices and prayers,
the Idahans gave permision for the teams of the world's toughest
endurance race, the Eco-Challenge Sabah 2000, to enter the Caves,
climb the rattan-ladders and do the flying fox from its summit,
down to the jungle below.
To visit the Caves, permission must be obtained from the Idahan
elders. Visitors may visit the District Office in Lahad Datu town
to make prior arrangements for entrance permission on their behalf. |
