KOTA KINABALU: Shangri-La Rasa Ria, Kota Kinabalu has made a significant leap in Malaysia’s hospitality industry by becoming the first hotel in the country to achieve ISO 20121 certification for sustainable event management. This prestigious recognition also marks a first within the Shangri-La Group globally.
Speaking on the milestone, General Manager Fiona Hagan highlighted the resort’s unwavering commitment to delivering event experiences that are not only world-class but also environmentally and socially responsible. “Operating within a 460-acre site that includes 64 acres of protected forest reserve and an 18-hole golf course, our commitment goes far beyond surface-level adjustments. We are reimagining how we operate in every aspect,” she stated.
ISO 20121 certification, a globally recognised standard for sustainable event management, addresses critical elements of environmental, social, and governance (ESG) principles. It extends beyond waste and carbon footprint reduction to embed sustainability across operational and community engagement strategies.
Key initiatives underpinning this achievement include a longstanding collaboration with PACOS Trust, a local community-based organisation supporting indigenous communities across Sabah. The resort has also actively integrated local suppliers and artisans into its supply chain, strengthening regional economic ecosystems.
Shangri-La Rasa Ria’s journey towards sustainability is not a recent undertaking. Since 2012, the resort has implemented comprehensive environmental measures, such as reducing glass bottle usage and eliminating single-use plastics. These efforts have previously earned it ISO 14001:2015 for environmental management and ISO 22000:2018 for food safety.
In addition to ISO certifications, the resort has garnered industry accolades including the Green Hotel Certificate by Malaysia’s Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture (2023), the Gold Award for Best Sustainability Initiative (International Category) at the M&C Asia Stella Awards (2020), and the ASEAN Green Hotel Standard for the 2024–2026 cycle.
The ISO 20121 certification process involved rigorous self-assessment, setting of measurable performance indicators, ongoing compliance with legal obligations, and transparent reporting procedures. As Malaysia prepares to welcome the world for Visit Malaysia Year 2026, Shangri-La Rasa Ria continues to position itself as a leader in sustainable hospitality, setting a new benchmark for eco-conscious event management in the region.
-Awani
