ABSTRACT
Although there are few indigenous speleologists and no regional journal or serial publications, Southeast Asian caves witness great cultural, religious, and natural heritage, their human use dating back perhaps 50000 years. This review documents use and exploration of caves. About 10-15% of the region is karst (less in Malaysia and Cambodia), often in remote locations. Nevertheless karst has an immense significance for sustainable agriculture, water quality, tourism, and biodiversity conservation in the region.
