Cover Daniyal Ng, hotel manager of RuMa and Danny Ng, regional managing director of Vireo Asia Pacific, the Accredited Certification Bodies of GSTC
Daniyal Ng, hotel manager of RuMa and Danny Ng, regional managing director of Vireo Asia Pacific, the Accredited Certification Bodies of GSTC
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The RuMa Hotel and Residences leads the way in Peninsular Malaysia with its Global Sustainable Tourism Council certification, matching luxury with eco-conscious practices
Sustainable tourism has emerged as a vital approach to travelling. It emphasises the importance of preserving natural and cultural resources while benefiting local communities and economies. As such, countries, airlines and even the hotel sector are taking initiatives and incorporating sustainable practices into their ecosystems.
As such, the RuMa Hotel and Residences being the first hotel in Peninsular Malaysia to be honoured with the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC) certification is truly a commendable step forward in pursuing a more sustainable and responsible tourism industry. The globally recognised standard evaluates hotels’ ability to maintain the highest levels of sustainability, examining their policies, practices, and overall impact on the environment, local culture, and communities.
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Above The RuMa team with its Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC) certification
The RuMa team with its Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC) certification
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A testament to The RuMa’s holistic approach to sustainability, the recognition underscores the hotel’s dedication to balancing economic growth with environmental stewardship and social responsibility. Some key initiatives championed by the hotel includes conservation of natural resources in its operations, supporting underprivileged communities, equal opportunity for local employment as well as incorporating the story of Malaysia in its design by utilising local cultural materials such as kampung house pillars, Kebayaku sculpture on the grand staircase, Kelarai weave throughout the halls, and antique balusters in the elevator lobby.
Above Kebayaku sculpture at the centre of The RuMa Hotel and Residences' grand staircase
Kebayaku sculpture at the centre of The RuMa Hotel and Residences' grand staircase
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The hotel had also previously received a Gold Certification for the Green Building Index (GBI) with the way the hotel was built, recognising its attempts to maximise benefits to the environment and minimise negative impact with a design purposed for saving water and energy. These features include lighting by employment of 95 per cent LED lights, motion sensors for utilities to conserve energy, harvesting rainwater for watering of landscape and more.
Above Kampung house pillars at the arrival corridor, an ode to authentic Malaysian hospitality at The RuMa Hotel and Residences
Above Kelarai weave apparent throughout the halls, a traditional mainstay of our local Malay culture, at The RuMa Hotel and Residences
Kampung house pillars at the arrival corridor, an ode to authentic Malaysian hospitality at The RuMa Hotel and Residences
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“We are incredibly proud to be the first hotel in Peninsular Malaysia to earn this esteemed recognition, as this milestone marks a significant step in our journey toward a more sustainable and resilient future. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to our dedicated team and loyal guests who have been instrumental in making this achievement possible,” says Daniyal Ng, hotel manager of RuMa.
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ATAS Restaurant at The RuMa Hotel and Residences
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This year, RuMa has already introduced glass water bottles in every room and plans to install electric vehicle (EV) charging stations, further reducing its carbon footprint. Additionally, the hotel will transition to Balmain Signature refillable bathroom amenities, a luxurious collection developed in collaboration with ADA Cosmetics and Balmain Hair Couture, highlighting its commitment to minimising waste without compromising on quality.
The RuMa’s recognition by the GSTC serves as a call to action for the hospitality industry at large, illustrating the profound impact that dedicated sustainability efforts can have on the environment, local cultures, and economies. It stands as a shining example of how luxury and sustainability can coexist, offering guests an unparalleled experience that honours the beauty of Malaysia and the planet.
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Images: The RuMa Hotel and Residences
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