Pioneering rainforest resort, The Datai Langkawi, is delighted to announce that The Els Club Teluk Datai has become the first golf course in Malaysia to be awarded the prestigious GEO Certification. This globally recognised accolade, awarded by the Golf Environment Organization (GEO) Foundation, highlights the club’s dedication to environmental stewardship, resource efficiency, and community engagement.
The GEO Certification represents a significant milestone in sustainable golf practices, demonstrating excellence in three key areas: Nature, Resources, and Community. As the first Malaysian golf course to achieve this recognition, The Els Club Teluk Datai sets a benchmark for responsible golf course management in the region.
Sharudin Bin Kamarudin, Club Manager of The Els Club Teluk Datai, shared his excitement about the achievement: "We are delighted that The Els Club Teluk Datai has earned this prestigious certification, a testament to our unwavering commitment to sustainability and operating in harmony with nature. Just like our sister resort, The Datai Langkawi, our ethos is rooted in environmental preservation and community empowerment, and this achievement reflects our efforts to integrate these values into every aspect of our operations. We hope this recognition inspires others in Malaysia and beyond to embrace sustainable practices."
The GEO Certification process assessed The Els Club Teluk Datai on comprehensive sustainability criteria, focusing on its impact on biodiversity, resource conservation, and community involvement. Highlights of the club’s initiatives include:
Nature: The club utilises compost made from natural ingredients to cut down on synthetic fertiliser use and employs innovative pest control strategies, using natural deterrents like chili-based solutions to maintain the greens without using harmful chemicals. Organic practices are central to the club’s sustainability philosophy, seamlessly integrating environment-friendly methods to protect the course and its surrounding ecosystem. Collaborations with wildlife experts further this commitment, establishing buffer zones to safeguard local habitats, exemplifying a holistic and proactive approach to environmental stewardship.
Resources: Implementing green practices across The Els Club Teluk Datai is a vital undertaking, reflected in a range of initiatives aimed at reducing environmental impact. Waste reduction and recycling are prioritised, with meticulous sorting to minimise landfill contributions. Planned solar panel installations will further advance renewable energy efforts, reducing reliance on conventional sources and significantly lowering the club’s carbon footprint. These panels represent not just a goal but a step toward energy independence. Complementing these efforts, advanced irrigation systems are being introduced to conserve water and minimise waste on the fairways, further demonstrating the club’s comprehensive commitment to operating to the most sustainable standards possible.
Community: The Els Club’s sustainability efforts go beyond internal practices, actively engaging guests and the community. Players can explore eco-friendly initiatives through educational tours and interactive displays, fostering greater awareness and appreciation for sustainability. The club also partners with local schools, inviting students to learn about organic farming and environmental stewardship, further strengthening its commitment to nurturing a culture of responsibility and ecological awareness within the community.
The certification process involved a year-long benchmarking period to assess the club’s sustainability efforts, followed by the adoption of a three-year certification term (2024–2027). The Els Club Teluk Datai will continue to work with the GEO Foundation to uphold these high standards and contribute to the global movement toward sustainable golf.
The Els Club Teluk Datai’s recognition as Malaysia’s first GEO Certified golf course not only underscores its commitment to environmental and social responsibility but also positions Langkawi as a leader in sustainable tourism and development.
-ENDS-
Notes To Editors: For a selection of high-resolution photos of The Els Club Teluk Datai, please click here.
ABOUT THE ELS CLUB TELUK DATAI
One of only 4 golf courses designed by former World No.1 and four-time Major Champion Ernie Els, The Els Club Teluk Datai is located in one of South East Asia’s most sensational settings, earning the course a reputation as the most scenic of Malaysia’s many breath-taking golfing venues. A 10-million-year-old rainforest envelopes the Championship course, with the surrounding appeal of the crystal-clear blue waters of the Andaman Sea, and the majestic Mount Machinchang providing a stunning background. With no bunkers on the course, the layout relies on strategically placed tree-lines and a naturally meandering stream. The five holes which skirt the water’s edge offer wide open views across the bay to the Thai island of Koh Tarutao, and the flawlessly maintained playing surfaces are a constant, in true tribute to the design which carries its creator’s name. The course is managed by Datai Hotels and Resorts Sdn Bhd, a company incorporated to manage and operate hospitality properties in Malaysia and beyond.
ABOUT GEO FOUNDATION
The GEO Foundation, a globally recognised leader in sustainability standards for golf, is an ISEAL Code Compliant member. ISEAL is a globally recognised membership organisation that sets credible frameworks for sustainability standards. As the only sport-specific organisation to achieve ISEAL Code Compliance, the GEO Foundation meets the highest standards for effective, transparent, and accountable sustainability systems. The GEO Foundation has developed three sets of Voluntary Sustainability Standards for Golf, encompassing guidelines for facilities, tournaments, and new developments. These standards are built collaboratively, adhering to ISEAL's Codes for credible standard setting, which include rigorous public consultation and input from international expert groups. This ensures that GEO’s programmes offer actionable, evidence-based solutions to help golf courses around the world achieve measurable environmental and social benefits.
ABOUT THE DATAI LANGKAWI
One of the world’s most stunning resorts, The Datai Langkawi, is situated on the northwest tip of the island of Langkawi in Malaysia. Located in an ancient rainforest rich in wildlife and overlooking the tranquil Datai Bay awarded by National Geographic one of the Top 10 Beaches worldwide, the iconic property enchants with mesmerising nature, visionary architecture, understated elegance, and Malaysian hospitality. All the 121 rooms, villas, and suites at The Datai Langkawi, including the five-bedroom The Datai Estate Villa, offer breath-taking views of the surrounding nature. Elevated among treetops, set in the very heart of the rainforest, and located directly on the coastline, the dining outlets which include the award-winning The Gulai House, The Pavilion, The Dining Room, and The Beach Club, pay homage to the exotic flavours and culinary traditions of the region and beyond. Bespoke facilities include The Nature Centre, an educational facility and home to resident naturalists and marine biologists, and The Spa featuring Ramuan treatments, its own Akar retail range, and Voya facials. Leisure facilities include three pools, a state-of-the-art fitness centre at The Health Club; an array of wellness activities including Pilates and yoga, retail outlet The Boutique, a reserved space to showcase local arts and talents at The Atelier, as well as one of the most scenic golf courses in the world designed by golf legend Ernie Els, The Els Club Teluk Datai. The resort has founded The Datai Pledge in 2019 - a sustainability and conservation trust that supports Langkawi’s unique fauna, flora, and communities. All proceeds from The Datai Pledge aid this work and contribute to local non-profit organisation. The Datai Langkawi is managed by Datai Hotels and Resorts Sdn Bhd, a company incorporated to manage and operate hospitality properties in Malaysia and beyond.
For further press information and images, please contact:
Christina Dendrinou (christina@frogandwolfpr.com), Leanne Barton (leanne@frogandwolfpr.com), Nat Frogley (nat@frogandwolfpr.com), or Flora Gandolfo (flora@frogandwolfpr.com) at Frog & Wolf PR.
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