Where conservation meets comfort

As an aspiring conservationist, my choice of a staycation is always guided by eco-responsibility. I make it a priority to research each destination, diving deep into their documented sustainability efforts — or lack thereof — to ensure my stay aligns with my values.

The experience must go beyond just a nice view and a comfy bed. Today, I prioritise supporting businesses that demonstrate a genuine commitment to waste reduction across all areas (plastic, food, energy, and more). Beyond that, I have a major soft spot for properties that actively support and empower their local community.

Enter Shangri-La Rasa Ria.

Nestled between the lush rainforests of Borneo and the pristine shores of Pantai Dalit, Shangri-La Rasa Ria is proving that luxury and sustainability are not mutually exclusive. Far from simply being a pristine getaway, this 400-acre resort is a pioneering force in eco-conscious hospitality, meticulously integrating environmental stewardship and community upliftment into its core operations.

The resort’s journey toward a greener future is a story of continuous innovation, earning it prestigious accolades like the ISO 20121 certification for sustainable event management — a first for any hotel in Malaysia and the Shangri-La Group worldwide — and The ASEAN Green Hotel Standard.

Most recently, in July 2025, Shangri-La Rasa Ria has also received the Global Sustainable Tourism Council Certification from the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC).

Rasa Ria Reserve: the heart of conservation

The most compelling pillar of Rasa Ria’s commitment to conservation is the 64-acre Rasa Ria Reserve. Once a rehabilitation centre for orangutans, the reserve has evolved into a vibrant ecological sanctuary and education hub, managed by knowledgeable Resident Naturalists.

The reserve is a haven for native Bornean flora and fauna, including over 80 species of birds — including the majestic hornbill, slow loris, and long-tailed macaques. The resort also works actively with educational institutions like Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS) to fund pangolin conservation research and the bioluminescent fungi (glowing mushroom) conservation project.

For the nature lover, the Discovery Centre offers interactive exhibits and serves as a gateway to 21 kilometres of nature trails. Activities like the ‘Junior Naturalists’ programme and guided walks inspire guests of all ages to connect with and appreciate Borneo’s rich biodiversity.

In addition to that, Rasa Ria Reserve also conducts ongoing projects focusing on habitat enrichment, wildlife rescue, and awareness programs, demonstrating a long-term commitment to preserving the natural landscape.

Leader in operational excellence and waste management

In recent years, Shangri-La Rasa Ria has implemented a robust, measurable strategy to shrink its environmental footprint, going far beyond typical ‘green’ initiatives. This includes the implementation of rooftop solar installations and a shift to Lithium Battery technology for their buggy fleet.

In addition, the resort has also applied a proactive approach to water management. Key projects by Rasa Ria include innovative use of water-efficient technologies and meticulous monitoring, extensive rainwater harvesting, and repurposing greywater and implementing laundry water recovery systems.

As the early pioneer of the plastic-free movement, Shangri-La Rasa Ria’s commitment to plastic waste management started as early as 2018 with the removal of plastic straws. In 2022, the resort successfully removed all single-use plastics from its F&B outlets.

The resort advanced its sustainability goals in 2025 by phasing out plastic-made items and packaging, converting key amenities like toothbrushes and combs to wooden materials. This initiative was a staff-driven initiative that highlights a deep-seated eco-culture within the organisation.

To manage glass waste, the resort also started a glass bottle recycling programme at its EcoRia Glass Recycling Site. At the EcoRia recycling site, used glass bottles are crushed in-house into reusable glass sand for landscaping and construction purposes, with local communities encouraged to participate.

As an entity that derives a lot of its profits from F&B operations and events, the resort’s robust food waste management and comprehensive recycling programs had also contributed to an impressive 78 per cent waste diversion rate from landfills in 2025.

Today, all food waste generated within the resort is converted into animal feed by partnering with a local farm in Tuaran. Additionally, fruit trimmings, eggshells and coffee waste are transformed into compost, which is then used to fertilise the chef’s permaculture garden.

The herbs and vegetables harvested from this garden are subsequently supplied directly back to the resort’s F&B outlets, creating a closed-loop system and reducing the carbon footprint incurred.

Rooted in the community

Shangri-La Rasa Ria recognises that true sustainability involves enriching the social fabric of its home.

As a move to empower local artisans, the resort actively supports women-led initiatives, such as the Sarimpak Robe project with Changgih Designs and other sewing collaborations. These projects provide a sustainable income for local women while preserving Sabah’s heritage crafts.

In line with Shangri-La’s global ‘Rooted in Nature’ program, the resort also prioritises procuring from local suppliers for its culinary offerings, celebrating Sabahan flavours and significantly reducing its food carbon footprint.

Shangri-La Rasa Ria also puts substantial investments into ESG-related activities are channelled into the ‘Embrace’ program, which benefits local schoolchildren through educational outreach and workshops, fostering the next generation of environmental stewards.

On top of that, the resort also champions inclusivity by actively employing individuals with disabilities. The resort currently employs four people with disability (OKU) staff.

A destination with heart

The pursuit of sustainability at Shangri-La Rasa Ria is not a destination, but rather a continuous journey of improvement, anchored by its values and driven by its team.  As General Manager Fiona Hagan noted, the efforts are not just for the sake of recognition, but because sustainability has become a ‘part of their systemic culture’.

By seamlessly blending a commitment to planet, people, and profit, the Shangri-La Rasa Ria stands as a powerful blueprint for how the luxury travel industry can — and should — lead the way in responsible tourism, proving that a five-star experience can truly be a force for good, both for the local community and the environment