Recognized by the International Sustainability Awards for its long-term commitment to sustainable tourism, fostering community empowerment through local employment, responsible sourcing, cultural preservation, and guest education in sustainability, The Banjaran Hotsprings Retreat stands as a benchmark for responsible luxury in Southeast Asia.

In this exclusive interview, Alexander Chetchikov, President of the World Luxury Chamber of Commerce, sits down with Marc Groh, General Manager of The Banjaran Hotsprings Retreat, to explore the sustainability ethos driving the retreat, as well as the future of eco-luxury hospitality in Malaysia.

Alexander Chetchikov: Marc, The Banjaran Hotsprings Retreat has just received the International Sustainability Award – What does this recognition mean for the team and your vision going forward?

Marc Groh: Receiving the International Sustainability Award is a proud moment for our entire team. It validates our long-term commitment to responsible tourism and inspires us to continue integrating environmental and social responsibility into every aspect of our operations.

AC: The Banjaran employs up to 96% of its staff from the local Perak community. Why has this been such an important part of your approach?

MG: Employing primarily local residents is central to our philosophy of fostering community empowerment and sustainable development. It helps preserve local culture, provides stable livelihoods and promotes economic growth within the community. By investing in local talent, we build a cohesive, motivated team that is passionate about sharing their heritage and ensuring our guests have authentic, meaningful experiences that benefit everyone involved.

AC: Your culinary experiences are rooted in local sourcing and seasonal produce. How do these initiatives impact both your guests and the environment?

MG: Focusing on local, seasonal ingredients enhances guests’ connection to the region’s culinary heritage and provides fresh, high-quality meals. Environmentally, it reduces our carbon footprint by minimizing long-haul transportation and waste. For our guests, it offers an authentic taste of Perak’s rich agricultural tradition, enriching their stay and fostering appreciation for sustainable practices.

AC: What sustainability initiatives are you looking to grow or enhance in the near future?

MG: We are developing new programs that deepen guest engagement with traditional culture, environmental stewardship and conservation efforts in Perak. This includes immersive cultural experiences and initiatives that encourage collective action. Internally, we continue to enhance waste separation practices to move closer to a zero-waste goal. Our journey is ongoing, always evolving with nature and the community as our guiding compass.

AC: How would you describe the modern luxury guest today, and how is The Banjaran adapting to meet their expectations?

MG: Today’s luxury guest seeks more than opulence, they seek meaning. They desire experiences that align with their values: wellness that nourishes the soul, travel that respects the Earth and stays that create stories worth telling. At The Banjaran, we answer this call with quiet authenticity: geothermal healing, mindful menus, sustainability you can see and feel and a sense of privacy that allows true reconnection. We offer them not just a stay but a sanctuary for introspection and impact.

AC: Managing a wellness retreat like this must come with challenges. What are some of the key ones you’ve faced?

MG: Balancing the delicate ecosystems. Natural, operational and human is both our greatest challenge and our greatest joy. Weather volatility, shifts in global travel patterns and the rising costs of ethical sourcing all require agility and foresight. Internally, maintaining consistency while fostering innovation within a predominantly local workforce demands deep investment in training and culture. But we embrace these challenges as the price of purpose. They make us stronger, wiser and more aligned with our mission.

AC: As more eco-conscious retreats emerge, how do you keep The Banjaran unique?

MG: What sets The Banjaran apart is our depth of integration. We don’t layer sustainability onto luxury, we weave them into the same thread. Our location is irreplaceable, our practices are rooted in heritage and our people carry the essence of Perak in every gesture. We also never stop listening to the land, to our guests and to the changing tides of travel. That’s how we continue to lead, not follow.

AC: What advice would you give to hospitality leaders who want to make their operations more sustainable but aren’t sure where to begin?

MG: Sustainability isn’t a trend, it’s a commitment. Begin with what’s closest: your people, your supply chain, your waste. Measure what you can, celebrate small wins, and build from there. Engage your team, involve your community, and be transparent with your guests. You don’t need perfection, just progress with purpose.

Thank you to Marc Groh for offering his insight into what makes The Banjaran Hotsprings Retreat both impactful and inspiring. With sustainability at its core and community woven into every level of its operation, The Banjaran continues to lead the conversation around responsible travel in Southeast Asia.

Explore more about The Banjaran and its sustainability programs here: sunwayhotels.com/the-banjaran.