KOTA KINABALU: A recent Tree Lighting Ceremony at Shangri-La Rasa Ria delighted corporate clients, agents, partners, and local guests when they saw the truly enchanting celebration as they illuminated the holiday spirit with their much-anticipated Tree Lighting Ceremony.
This magical event, which took place at the Garden Wing Lobby, not only marked the beginning of the festive season but also underscored their unwavering commitment to sustainability through innovative initiatives.
The evening commenced with the harmonious tones of carolers from ‘Sing for Joy’, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Following this, Miss Tourism International subsidiary title winner, Miss Closest to Nature, shared her excitement about the resort’s initiatives for the festive season. Guests were treated to a captivating video presentation, shedding light on the artistic process behind their eco-friendly cornhusk decorations, the significance of their unique grow bag initiative, and a heartfelt insight from Shangri-La Rasa Ria’s General Manager, Ms Fiona Hagan, with her broadcast of her greetings.
Fiona had expressed, “This year at Shangri-La Rasa Ria, it is truly about promoting our local community, telling the stories of the locals, and conducting business in a sustainable manner.”
The highlight of the evening was the grand unveiling of Shangri-La Rasa Ria’s Christmas Tree by several happy children. This eco-friendly masterpiece was testament to their commitment to reducing environmental impact while celebrating the holiday season in style. The event concluded with the carolers serenading the guests with the beautiful sounds of the season in the garden wing lobby.
In addition to the Tree Lighting Ceremony, Shangri-La Rasa Ria introduce guests to sustainable initiatives. The Eco-Felt Grow Bag with potted spider plants was made available for purchase at RM98, or the Eco-Felt Grow Bag alone could be acquired for RM88. Proceeds from these initiatives would benefit local organisations, including MAMA Jarum in Tamparuli, Jireh Homes in Tuaran, and the Society for the Blind, Tuaran.
Shangri-La Rasa Ria in Kota Kinabalu presented a distinctive and sustainable Christmas tree for the 2023 holiday season, crafted from 700 spider plants in felt grow bags made of 100% recycled plastic bottles. Complemented by a 100% biodegradable plant fiber saucer crafted from recycled bamboo fiber, the display harmoniously fused sustainability with functionality. Designed by Jo Luping, the Eco-Felt Growbag, made from upcycled plastic bottles, added an artistic touch with motifs symbolizing The Rasa Ria Reserve. Guests could purchase the Eco-Felt Growbag alone at RM88 or with a spider plant at RM98, embodying a contemporary expression of art inspired by Sabah’s rich identity.
Shangri-La Rasa Ria transformed festive celebrations with Upcycled Shack, DumoWongi, Pacos Trust, Happy Plastic, Corn Husk Craft, and Wagas Di Asi, introducing eco-friendly Christmas decorations made from repurposed corn husks and discarded items. Beyond aesthetics, this collaboration empowered over 20 local artisan women, offering upskilling opportunities and contributing to household incomes. Sourced from agricultural crops and colored with natural elements, the zero-waste decorations exemplified the resort’s dedication to sustainability. Curated by Upcycled Shack in collaboration with Sabah communities and social enterprises, this initiative symbolised strong community collaboration. Aligned with Shangri-La’s ESG principles, it was a tangible step towards a responsible and eco-conscious hospitality future, inviting guests to partake in a meaningful celebration of the holiday season.-pr/BNN
