If you’re a traveller who values purpose and the planet, Shangri-La Rasa Ria in Kota Kinabalu sets a new standard for meaningful stays.
This lush, beachfront resort is now the first in Malaysia—and the entire Shangri-La group—to earn the ISO 20121 certification for sustainable event management. More than just a badge, this global standard recognises hotels that go all-in: setting ambitious sustainability goals, collaborating with like-minded suppliers, reducing waste and carbon emissions, and continuously proving their progress through transparent reporting. It shows that Rasa Ria isn’t just talking green—it’s doing the work.
Set across 460 acres of natural beauty, including a protected forest reserve and championship golf course, Rasa Ria has made long-term sustainability part of its DNA. It partners with local artisans and organisations like PACOS Trust to empower Indigenous communities, prioritises eco-conscious sourcing, and has ditched single-use plastics since 2012. Achievements like ISO 14001 (for environmental management) and ISO 22000 (for food safety) back up its mission, while multiple green awards reflect its impact on a national and regional scale.
This effort has earned the resort a string of accolades, including the Green Hotel Certification by Malaysia’s Ministry of Tourism, the Gold Award for Best Sustainability Initiative at the M&C Asia Stella Awards, the ASEAN Green Hotel Standard (2024–2026), and the ASEAN MICE Venue Award in 2024.
Whether you’re planning a retreat, a celebration, or just craving some time in nature, Shangri-La Rasa Ria offers a stay that’s as thoughtful as it is unforgettable.
All images are courtesy of the brand unless stated otherwise
