BRL achieves 5-star rating

The BRL management and staff proudly showing off the 5-star award, first jungle resort in Malaysia to achieve the feat.

25 November 2024

KOTA KINABALU: The Borneo Rainforest Lodge (BRL) has proudly become the first jungle resort in Malaysia to receive a prestigious 5-star rating following a rigorous evaluation process.

This recognition sets a new benchmark for international travellers, ensuring a unique and high-quality experience during their stay.

In addition to the 5-star rating, BRL has been honoured as a "Green Hotel," in accordance with the guidelines established by the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture, as noted by BRL's Chief Executive Officer, Freddie Coleman.

The evaluation process was spearheaded by Coleman and the Director of Operations, Abd Sail Jamaludin.

Situated in the breathtaking Danum Valley in Lahad Datu, BRL is a proud subsidiary of the Sabah Foundation Group of Companies, showcasing the best of Malaysian hospitality and offering guests truly unforgettable experiences.

“We have upgraded several facilities to meet the 5-star standards and provide a more comfortable stay for our guests,” Coleman said.

Improvements include enhancing the lobby's ambience, updating green practice documentation, and expanding gym facilities.

The lobby now features additional seating areas for guest convenience during check-in and check-out.

Coleman highlighted the lodge’s commitment to sustainability through various in-house green practices.

These include UV sterilisation for filtered water throughout the lodge and a rainwater harvesting system for optimising water usage, such as vehicle washing.

Effective microorganism (EM) mud balls are used to treat wastewater, which is then safely absorbed by the surrounding environment.

Additionally, solar panels have been installed on each lodge unit to power water heaters, reducing carbon footprints and energy consumption.

An environmental sustainability team ensures that green standards are maintained to protect the rainforest's longevity.

BRL has extended its green initiatives to its food and beverage sector by converting food waste into compost, fertilising an in-house herb garden.

This supports a farm-to-table experience and reduces reliance on imported inorganic herbs.

“This approach moves us towards a sustainable circular economy,” Coleman noted.