Malaysia, the up-and-coming green destination

Luxury travel group Beyond Green has added five more stays to its scrupulously vetted sustainable hotel list, including three new recruits in Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia, as well as in New York and Lisbon. Does this make Malaysia the next hottest (or hopefully, coolest) green destination?

Malaysia may be a path less trodden than neighbours like Thailand and Bali, but with its idyllic beaches, abundant biodiversity, historic charm and electrifying food scene, it’s hard to see why.

Bungaraya Island Resort on the coast of Borneo, Malaysia 

We also know how overtourism can create strain — from beaches scattered with plastic and litter to pressure on public services and rising local costs. The challenge, then, is how to experience this beautiful and dynamic country without leaving a trail of damage behind.

Making it easier are the restaurants and hotels shaking off old habits and setting a new standard for both tourists and locals. Dewekan, in Malaysia’s capital Kuala Lumpur, holds the country’s first and only Michelin Green Star. It was awarded the accolade in 2024 for its “exceptional commitment” to practices such as sourcing locally, using entire ingredients nose-to-tail, and minimising waste and plastic. If that wasn’t enough, the restaurant also maintains two Michelin Stars for culinary excellence.

Treading lightly, Where to stay in Malaysia

The group bridging luxury and eco-focused escapes, Beyond Green — with hotels, resorts and lodges from Botswana to Belize — has added three Malaysian stays, highlighting the country as a rising green destination. Beyond Green includes only properties that go above and beyond in safeguarding their surrounding environments, cultural heritage and local communities.

Borneo Eagle Resort – Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia  
A private island sanctuary focused on low-impact luxury, featuring solar energy, organic farming, and marine conservation through coral restoration and giant clam propagation.

Bungaraya Island Resort – Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia 

A secluded rainforest retreat designed with sustainability in mind, where each villa blends naturally into the jungle backdrop and The Longhouse restaurant showcases organic, farm-to-table dishes featuring local favourites.

Gayana Marine Resort – Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia 
A marine-conservation-led retreat with an on-site research centre and its own Gayana Dive Centre, dedicated to coral restoration and immersive ocean education for guests.

So for travellers seeking more meaningful stays that also help ensure the destination remains intact for years to come, Malaysia might just be the ideal conscious choice.

To explore Beyond Green’s full portfolio and book your next eco escape in luxe, visit their website here.