MIRI: Mercure Miri City Centre has made history by becoming the first hotel in Malaysia to receive the internationally acclaimed Green Key Award, a recognition that places Miri at the forefront of sustainable hospitality on the global stage.
Out of 24 hotels in Malaysia vying for the accolade, Mercure Hotel Miri emerged as the winner, demonstrating exceptional commitment to environmental responsibility and sustainable practices.
The achievement was celebrated in a ceremony on Friday (March 14), attended by Deputy Minister for Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts (Tourism) Datuk Sebastian Ting Chiew Yew, who commended the hotel’s pioneering role in sustainability.
“You have not only put a mark in Malaysia but on the world stage. This achievement makes Mercure Miri a leader in the hospitality industry, setting a benchmark for others to follow,” Ting remarked. He reiterated the ministry’s support for businesses committed to sustainability, aligning with Sarawak’s broader green initiatives.
The recognition aligns with Sarawak’s broader environmental agenda, which includes the promotion of its Unesco-listed sites in Mulu and Niah Caves, as well as green initiatives at major events like the Rainforest World Music Festival (RWMF).
The festival, which will take place from June 20 to 27 this year, has progressively adopted eco-friendly measures, including a no-plastic policy implemented since 2022.
Ting highlighted the state’s proactive approach to sustainability, encouraging more private-sector initiatives like Mercure Miri’s.
“The government is committed to supporting private enterprises that take the initiative to go green, and we encourage others to follow in these footsteps,” he said.
Meanwhile, Miri mayor Adam Yii Siew Sang lauded the recognition, highlighting its significance in promoting Miri as a global leader in environmental and hospitality sustainability.
“This award is a milestone that places Miri on the world map, showing that we are serious about sustainability and responsible tourism,” Yii said.
Mercure Miri City Centre general manager Shan Ravendran expressed pride in the achievement, attributing it to the dedication of his team and their collective effort towards sustainable change.
“It is an honour to be part of a team that drives sustainability not just within the hotel but across the industry and local community. Being the first hotel in Malaysia to receive Green Key certification is a milestone we set out to achieve, and we will continue to support Accor’s and Sarawak’s green initiatives,” he said.
Achieving the Green Key certification required extensive preparations and adherence to stringent environmental standards. The hotel implemented initiatives such as waste reduction, energy and water conservation, and sustainable sourcing, making it a model for responsible tourism in Malaysia.
The Green Key Award is an international eco-label for tourism establishments, awarded to those that meet strict environmental management criteria set by the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE).
Recognised in over 60 countries, the certification signifies a property’s commitment to sustainability in areas such as waste management, energy efficiency, and environmental education.
