The Datai Langkawi has announced 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 uses compost made from natural ingredients to reduce synthetic fertiliser use and employs innovative pest control strategies, using natural deterrents like chilli-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. This further strengthens 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 underscores its commitment to environmental and social responsibility and positions Langkawi as a leader in sustainable tourism and development.