The Els Club Teluk Datai - Rainforest Course

The Els Club Teluk Datai - Rainforest Course

Langkawi, Malaysia

Sustainable Golf Pledge

We are committed to social and environmental responsibility, in and through golf.

We recognize the importance of playing our part to protect and restore nature, conserve resources, take climate action and strengthen communities.

We will seek to use our reach to raise awareness and positive action amongst golfers, partners and the wider public.

We will make an important difference, and help golf become a valued leader in sustainability.

GEO Certified

Through becoming GEO Certified we have achieved the most widely regarded and credible sustainability distinction in golf.  The international certification was earned after successfully meeting the industry-standard best practices and demonstrating our commitment to make sustainability of central importance to our golf facility.  We're proud of our social and environmental value - and looking forward to doing even more on our sustainability journey.

Certified 2024 - 2026, for renewal 2027

Notable observations

  • Habitat Mapping and Biodiversity Assessment: A detailed habitat map is in place, supported by a comprehensive environmental impact assessment completed in 2023. This assessment has led to an impressive inventory of wildlife species, highlighting the presence of protected and endangered species, which indicates robust biodiversity on the property.
  • Legal Designations and Responsibilities: The team is knowledgeable about legal responsibilities regarding protected areas, habitats, and species, with a focus on monitoring and protecting rare and endangered species.
  • Water Management: The irrigation system is designed to target essential playing surfaces only, minimising water consumption. To enhance water use efficiency, regular performance checks and staff training on efficient irrigation practices are planned.
  • Material Use and Waste Management: An impressive waste separation and processing facility is in place, aiming to minimise landfill contributions. The property has invested in various recycling and composting technologies to effectively manage waste on-site. Additionally, the club has adopted a sustainable purchasing policy that favours locally sourced and eco-friendly products, supports local businesses, and eliminates single-use plastics.
  • Volunteering and Charitable Support: The Langkawi Big Golf Tournament, running for three years, raised 130,000 Malaysian Ringgit for cancer welfare in 2024.
  • Community Partnerships: A sustainability working group, known as "The Green Group," meets regularly to engage with the local community and neighbours. The group includes key members such as the Sustainability Executives and Club Manager.

It is difficult to describe how impressive and inspirational this facility and its initiatives were for me. The site, with its 10-million-year-old rainforest and neighbouring UNESCO Geopark, is truly breathtaking. The team are very engaged and motivated to achieve their sustainability goals and help the local community. The percentage of waste they can divert from landfill, the number of people they have helped in the local community, and how they safeguard this unique property are definite standouts. This property should be a required visit for anyone interested in the environment or sustainability or any businesses invested in sustainability. I look forward to seeing the ongoing improvements and the continued results of these wonderful initiatives.

Brad Revil (GEO accredited independent verifier)
GEO Certified Reports

Location