Tourism Malaysia Teams Up with Celebrities for Sustainability Project on Redang Island

Wednesday, July 10, 2024

Tourism Malaysia has launched an extensive Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) programme on Redang Island, emphasizing its dedication to sustainable tourism in line with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

This initiative is a collaborative effort involving various stakeholders such as Tourism Terengganu, Universiti Malaysia Terengganu (UMT), Berjaya Hotels and Resorts, mainstream media, social media influencers, and renowned celebrity chef Dato’ Ismail Ahmad. The programme’s goal is to promote Malaysia’s rich heritage and facilitate cultural exchange and appreciation. Chef Ismail will spotlight authentic Malaysian cuisine for both tourists and locals, showcasing food’s ability to connect people and foster understanding.

Key activities in the programme include:

Beach Cleaning Initiatives: The Taaras Beach and Spa Resort, part of Berjaya Hotels and Resorts, will spearhead beach cleaning activities. Engaging local communities and tourists, this effort aims to preserve the natural beauty of Redang Island and reduce marine debris. It promotes responsible practices and highlights the importance of ocean protection while positively impacting local communities and the environment.

Turtle Conservation Education: At the Chagar Hutang Turtle Sanctuary, participants will learn about the vital role of turtle conservation and the significance of marine life and their habitats. This experience supports ecotourism initiatives that showcase the island’s rich biodiversity.

Sustainable Practices Education: UMT’s Institute of Oceanography and Environment (INOS) will educate participants on sustainable tourism practices. The programme includes an innovative project to convert used cooking oil into soap, demonstrating how businesses can contribute to environmental sustainability by reducing waste and promoting resourcefulness.

This programme aligns seamlessly with the sustainable tourism practices outlined in the National Tourism Policy 2020-2030. These activities can be integrated into existing tourism packages offered by the industry, creating immersive experiences that benefit both visitors and local communities.

Through these initiatives, Tourism Malaysia and its partners aim to enhance Redang Island’s appeal as a tourist destination while ensuring its long-term ecological and cultural sustainability in preparation for Visit Malaysia 2026 (VM2026).

The Malaysia Tourism Promotion Board, also known as Tourism Malaysia, operates under the Ministry of Tourism, Arts & Culture Malaysia, focusing on promoting Malaysia as a preferred tourism destination. Since its inception, it has become a significant player in the international tourism scene.

The upcoming Visit Malaysia Year in 2026 will celebrate the sustainability of the nation’s tourism industry, in alignment with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UNSDG).

Additionally, Tourism Malaysia actively supports the Indonesia-Malaysia-Thailand Growth Triangle (IMT-GT), working towards the realisation of the IMT-GT Visiting Year 2023-2025. This initiative aims to promote the region as a unified tourism destination.