"Sustainability" has become a bit of a buzzword in today's lexicon, being tossed around so frequently it almost risks losing its true essence. This reality often poses a challenge for eco-conscious travellers who struggle to identify hotels genuinely committed to environmental stewardship through their practices. It takes time, patience, and plenty of research to find such gems — that's why we've done the legwork for you, especially if you're looking to travel to Malaysia soon.
Here are seven standout hotels in Malaysia leading the charge in sustainable stays in the region.
Cameron Highlands Resort
If your ideal getaway involves exploring tea plantations, strawberry fields, and mountain trails, all while indulging in golfing and spa treatments, then Cameron Highlands Resort might just be your cup of tea. Perched atop mainland Malaysia's highest point amidst the rolling hills of Pahang, this colonial-era hotel offers a retreat into cooler climes. Embracing ecotourism initiatives, the resort has long supported the surrounding plantations. Inside, every room and suite exudes a charming old-British aesthetic, complete with exquisite teak furnishings and silk fabrics. And speaking of silk, legend has it that Jim Thompson, the American silk magnate often credited for reviving Thai silk, mysteriously vanished while wandering the trails of Cameron Highlands back in the 1960s — a tale that adds a touch of intrigue to this idyllic destination.
Book Cameron Highlands Resort on the MICHELIN Guide →
Else Kuala Lumpur
A departure from Kuala Lumpur's mainstream chains, Else Kuala Lumpur offers a serene escape within the historic 1930s Art Deco Lee Rubber Building, nestled in the vibrant heart of Chinatown. In their own words, the hotel aims to promote "mindful hospitality for the conscious traveller”. Staying true to its point, Else Kuala Lumpur delivers with initiatives such as energy conservation in unoccupied rooms, energy-efficient heating, cooling, and lighting systems, and the use of eco-friendly cleaning products — nodding to its various eco-conscious practices.
Book Else Kuala Lumpur on the MICHELIN Guide →
Four Seasons Hotel Kuala Lumpur
Nestled smack dab in Kuala Lumpur's upscale Golden Triangle, with stunning vistas of the Petronas Twin Towers, the Four Seasons Hotel Kuala Lumpur debuted in 2018 to much anticipation, and understandably so. But beyond its luxurious facade lies a commitment to sustainability that sets it apart. Take, for instance, its energy-saving guest room controls and building systems, cutting down on excess. Plus, their bar hosts an "adopt a hive of honeybees" initiative at Dino's Kelulut Organic Farm in Negeri Sembilan, promoting bee preservation and training young farmers in natural beekeeping methods. It's luxury with a conscience.
Book Four Seasons Hotel Kuala Lumpur on the MICHELIN Guide →
Gayana Eco Resort
Fifty-two overwater tropical villas line Gayana Eco Resort, each one embracing nature with views of the aquamarine sea, mangrove forest, or tropical jungle. With "eco" right in its name, this property has embraced the mission of seamlessly blending ecology and conservation with luxury on the crescent of Malohom Bay off the coast of Sabah, Malaysia. Central to the resort's ethos is the preservation and rejuvenation of the island's invaluable marine ecosystem. At its core lies the on-site Marine Ecology Research Centre, the sole facility of its kind on an island resort. Here, efforts are focused on nurturing endangered giant clams and coral reefs, ensuring their survival for generations to come.
Book Gayana Eco Resort on the MICHELIN Guide →
Mandarin Oriental Kuala Lumpur
Just a stone's throw from the 88-storey Petronas Twin Towers, Mandarin Oriental Kuala Lumpur offers the epitome of five-star luxury, while maintaining its in-the-know appeal. Often hailed as the grand dame of many cities, Mandarin Oriental Kuala Lumpur exudes stately elegance, complemented by warm hospitality. Amidst its opulence, the Kuala Lumpur branch is leading the charge in sustainability, snagging the top SEDA rating for the third consecutive year in 2022. Not to mention, MOTAC — the Ministry of Tourism, Art & Culture — has bestowed upon it the prestigious ASEAN Green Hotel Standard award, recognising its dedication to sustainable tourism practices. What’s more, in a bold move since December 2021, the hotel group reached its goal of eliminating all single-use plastics across its properties.
Book Mandarin Oriental Kuala Lumpur on the MICHELIN Guide →
Temple Tree Langkawi
Sitting on a century-old rustic coconut tree plantation, Temple Tree Langkawi is a boutique retreat with Chinese, Malay, and colonial influences. Crafted in indigenous style, each villa exudes its own distinctive character, ensuring a unique experience where no two accommodations are alike. From championing local products to operating an in-house hydroponic farm that harnesses the rich biodiversity of Langkawi's UNESCO natural geopark, sustainability is ingrained in this property’s daily practices.
Book Temple Tree Langkawi on the MICHELIN Guide →
Shangri-La Rasa Sayang Resort and Spa
Lauded as one of Malaysia's eco-champions by the former Ministry of Tourism and Culture Malaysia (MOTAC), the Shangri-La Rasa Sayang Resort and Spa is Penang's crown jewel. Tucked away in lush tropical gardens, this resort isn't just about relaxation though — it's a beacon of eco-consciousness. Think water-bottling plants, recycling centres, and a bold move to ditch plastic straws, all aimed at slashing disposable plastic waste. And if that's not impressive enough, their Turtle Care Project is all about ensuring these majestic creatures have a safe journey. The hotel teams up with environmental NGOs and the Department of Fisheries to spread awareness and protect our ocean friends.
Book Shangri-La Rasa Sayang Resort and Spa on the MICHELIN Guide →
As sustainability continues to grow as a valuable asset in Malaysian hospitality, these pioneering hotels lead the charge, setting a standard for both current and aspiring contenders in the industry.
