Rasa Ria, YIM deliver immersive sustainability and innovation program for UMS students

KOTA KINABALU (Nov 29): Shangri-La Rasa Ria, in partnership with Yayasan Inovasi Malaysia (YIM), ExoEdu and Clarus Consulting, successfully delivered the GIMI Impact Level 1 Program, an immersive sustainability and innovation learning experience held November 5-8 across Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS) and Shangri-La Rasa Ria.

The program began on November 5 at UMS, where students engaged with experts from the Institute for Tropical Biology and Conservation (ITBC) and participated in an introductory session on the UN Sustainable Development Goals (UNSDGs) — establishing a strong foundation in environmental and social sustainability.

From November 7-8, students continued their journey at Shangri-La Rasa Ria, where they took part in the resort’s Sustainability Explorer Journey — an experiential platform showcasing ESG in
action. Participants experienced hands-on learning guided by the ESG Advocates from Rasa Ria,
alongside facilitators from Yayasan Inovasi Malaysia, strengthening their understanding of sustainability within hospitality operations.

Students engaged in five experiential modules:
• Circular Hospitality & Eco Ria Glass Challenge — Upcycling waste glass into functional and creative pieces, reinforcing circular economy principles.
• Water & Energy Stewardship Quest — Exploring behind-the-scenes systems in laundry and golf operations to understand resource efficiency in water saving initiatives
• Biodiversity & Wildlife Exploration — a mini flora and fauna explorace in experiencing the ecosystem relationships within the Rasa Ria Nature Reserve
• Sustainable Food & Farm-to-Table Workshop — Hands-on harvesting, responsible cooking, and waste reduction practices.
• Beach Eco Challenge: Race to Restore — A coastal cleanup and SDG-themed sand art activity to build awareness of marine conservation.

A key program highlight was a sharing session by guest speaker Simon Davis, Managing Director of Seadling, who inspired students with insights into seaweed innovation, local sustainability opportunities, and circular economy solutions in Sabah.

The program concluded with the Innovation Pitch, where participants presented their ESG solutions for hospitality and community impact. Students were awarded the GIMI Impact Level 1 Certificate and Explorer Badge, recognising their commitment and achievements.

“Shangri-La Rasa Ria is honoured to collaborate with YIM, ExoEdu, and Clarus Consulting to bring this meaningful program to life,” said Fiona Hagan, General Manager of Shangri-La Rasa Ria.

“By blending real-world learning, the guidance of our ESG Advocates, and exposure to industry leaders like Simon Davis, we hope to nurture future innovators and responsible leaders.”