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- The hotel’s management has implemented smart energy systems, including motion-sensor lighting, optimised air-conditioning controls and efficiency chillers. Water-saving fixtures and in-room water filtration systems further reduce the use of single-use plastic bottles.
IPOH (Nov 14): Perak-based WEIL Hotel has been recognised as Malaysia’s first environment, social and governance-certified (ESG) hotel under the ESG Certification for Hotels & Resorts Programme by the Malaysian Association of Hotels (MAH).
The certification, which was launched last year, is a collaborative initiatives between MAH, inspection and certification company SGS (Malaysia) Sdn Bhd and training provider Saimatrix Integrated, and supported by the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture (Motac).
The certification process included rigorous training, pre-assessment and the implementation of a comprehensive sustainability action plan.
The achievement is aligned with the National Tourism Policy 2020–2030 and marks a transformative moment for the country’s hospitality landscape.
From being Ipoh’s first five-star hotel to Perak’s first hotel with its own food composting system, as well as being the first hotel in Perak to attain the LEED O+M Gold Certification from the US Green Building Council (USGBC), WEIL Hotel continues to lead the local hospitality industry.
According to the media statement, the hotel’s management has implemented smart energy systems, including motion-sensor lighting, optimised air-conditioning controls and efficiency chillers. Water-saving fixtures and in-room water filtration systems further reduce the use of single-use plastic bottles.
Its in-house composting system converts 100% of food waste into nutrient-rich soil enhancers for local landscaping and green spaces, while green procurement and eco-friendly housekeeping practices continue to minimise its environmental impact.
WEIL Hotel chief engineer Wong Yow Seng said they rely on smart engineering and proactive monitoring through its building management system, optimising energy usage based on occupancy.
“This ensures power conservation without compromising comfort. Sustainability isn’t a trade-off—it’s a continuous improvement process that enhances the guest experience while reducing impact,” he said.
Malaysian Association of Hotels CEO Isaac Mohan Raj said the association has worked closely with government agencies, industry partners and organisations like Malaysian Association Of Hotel Owners (MAHO), Malaysia Budget Hotel Association (MYBHA) and United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) to raise ESG awareness among Malaysia’s approximately 1,200 hotels.
“Over the past year, we have been developing this roadmap together. WEIL Hotel sets a benchmark and serves as a national case study, demonstrating how ESG can be embedded into a hotel’s operating culture. Their leadership and commitment are exemplary, and we are proud to have worked alongside SGS and Saimatrix throughout this journey,” he said.
SGS (Malaysia) Sdn Bhd business assurance sub-regional manager Kenny Looi said WEIL Hotel’s certification reflects Malaysia’s readiness to embrace globally recognised ESG practices.
“The certification is based on international sustainability criteria adapted to Malaysian hotel operations, covering environmental, social, and governance aspects. WEIL had already been implementing ESG-aligned initiatives long before this certification programme existed. Their food waste composting technology, which converts food waste into soil enhancers, is an exemplary practice that benefits both the environment and the community.
“With Malaysia preparing for Visit Malaysia Year 2026, WEIL Hotel’s success is a strong signal to the world—that our hospitality industry is ready to welcome conscious travellers with integrity and innovation.”
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