REDANG ISLAND, 5 July 2024 – Tourism Malaysia demonstrates its commitment to sustainable tourism by unfolding a comprehensive CSR programme on Redang Island, aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

This collaborative initiative brings together Tourism Terengganu, Universiti Malaysia Terengganu (UMT), Berjaya Hotels and Resorts, mainstream media, social media influencers as well as celebrity chef Dato’ Ismail Ahmad to promote Malaysia’s rich heritage while fostering cultural exchange and appreciation. Chef Ismail will showcase authentic Malaysian cuisine to both tourists and the local community, highlighting the power of food to connect people and build understanding.

The programme also features a range of activities designed to enhance the sustainability of Redang Island, including:

• Beach Cleaning Activities: The Taaras Beach and Spa Resort, a Berjaya Hotels and Resorts property, will lead beach cleaning efforts, engaging both local communities and tourists in preserving the natural beauty of Redang Island and reducing marine debris. This initiative promotes responsible practices and highlights the importance of protecting our oceans while contributing positively to local communities and the environment.
• Turtle Conservation Education: At the Chagar Hutang Turtle Sanctuary, participants will learn about the critical role of turtle conservation and the importance of marine life and their habitats. This experience supports ecotourism initiatives that showcase the island’s rich biodiversity.
• Conversion of Used Cooking Oil into Soap: UMT, through its Institute of Oceanography and Environment (INOS), will educate participants on sustainable tourism practices. The programme will also showcase an innovative initiative converting used cooking oil into soap, demonstrating how businesses can contribute to environmental sustainability by reducing waste and promoting resourcefulness.

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

By implementing such initiatives, Tourism Malaysia and its partners are not only enhancing the appeal of Redang Island as a tourist destination but also ensuring its long-term ecological and cultural sustainability in gearing up for Visit Malaysia 2026 (VM2026).

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About Tourism Malaysia

Malaysia Tourism Promotion Board, also known as Tourism Malaysia, is an agency under the Ministry of Tourism, Arts & Culture Malaysia. It focuses on the specific task of promoting Malaysia as a preferred tourism destination. Since its inception, it has emerged as a major player in the international tourism scene.

The next Visit Malaysia Year, set to take place in 2026, will commemorate the sustainability of the nation's tourism industry, which is also in line with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UNSDG).

Furthermore, Tourism Malaysia actively endorses the Indonesia-Malaysia-Thailand Growth Triangle (IMT-GT), working towards the realisation of the IMT-GT Visiting Year 2023-2025, with the shared aim of promoting the region as a unified tourism destination. For more information, visit Tourism Malaysia’s social media accounts on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, YouTube, and TikTok.

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