On the 16th of October, World Food Day, Shangri-La Rasa Ria marked its ninth year in Borneo by embracing sustainable gastronomy, an initiative that underscores the Shangri-La Group’s consistent commitment, since 2014, to advocating for locally and ethically sourced ingredients.
This endeavour not only highlights the resort’s dedication to community well-being and sustainability but also its unwavering commitment to enhancing guest experiences with eco-friendly values.
Rooted in Nature: A Culinary Vision for Sustainability
Rooted in Nature is a comprehensive culinary programme that permeates the entire Shangri-La Group, meticulously designed to align its vision with environmental and social governance. At Shangri-La Rasa Ria, this vision is a heartfelt pledge that reaches out to the local community, celebrates the diverse flavours of Sabah Borneo, and pays homage to its multicultural heritage.
In their earnest pursuit of this noble cause, the talented team of chefs and gardeners at Shangri-La Rasa Ria have cultivated an abundant Chef Herbs Garden. This garden is home to a wide variety of herbs and plants, including chilli, thyme, rosemary, mint, and lemongrass. These herbs are lovingly nurtured to enrich the resort’s culinary offerings. The chefs take great pride in crafting dishes that infuse each ingredient with a burst of freshness, offering guests a delectable experience.
Locally Sourced, Sustainably Delivered
Shangri-La Rasa Ria’s commitment to sustainable gastronomy goes beyond its Chef Herbs Garden. The resort prioritises the use of chemical and pesticide-free local produce, free-range livestock, sustainably sourced seafood, and certified organic and fair-trade products. These high-quality ingredients are sourced directly from local, small-scale producers, including farmers, herders, fishers, butchers, bakers, and artisans who uphold traditional knowledge through innovative techniques. They do so while maintaining a deep respect for the environment, the landscape, and animal welfare.
Shangri-La Rasa Ria’s active engagement with these suppliers is an integral part of the Rooted in Nature initiative. The resort takes pride in supporting local businesses through collaborative efforts, such as sharing knowledge and skills. This includes providing food safety training in line with both local and international standards, offering marketing insights, and sharing finance techniques to boost sales. The resort also provides a trading platform for local farmers.
With the majority of the hotel staff being Sabah locals, this initiative is deeply cherished and illustrates Shangri-La Rasa Ria’s unwavering commitment to supporting the community.
A Gastronomic Journey for Guests
For guests at Shangri-La Rasa Ria, the dining experience is a journey through a diverse culinary landscape that celebrates both local classics and international delights. Every dish is meticulously crafted with precision and passion. Guests have the opportunity to savour the tantalising flavours of local street food at Tepi Laut, indulge in Chinese cuisine at The Eighth, or opt for fusion food at the laidback Coffee Terrace. As Shangri-La Rasa Ria continuously elevates its culinary experiences for guests, the resort remains dedicated to the principles of World Food Day, redefining dining with sustainable innovation and authenticity in this North Borneo treasure.
Shangri-La Rasa Ria goes the extra mile to promote operational efficiency and environmental friendliness. Notably, the resort employs several water conservation strategies. Rainwater harvesting is a standard practice, ensuring efficient collection and use of water, thereby reducing the reliance on freshwater. The installation of water-saving push taps further minimizes water wastage during daily usage, contributing to environmental conservation.
The implementation of a laundry water recycling unit, aptly named the “aquamiser,” underlines the resort’s dedication to water conservation. This system reuses laundry water, significantly reducing the resort’s environmental footprint. These measures collectively exemplify the resort’s dedication to sustainable practices, ensuring the ongoing preservation of the environment.
In conclusion, Shangri-La Rasa Ria’s commitment to sustainable gastronomy on World Food Day reflects a deeply rooted ethos of eco-friendliness and community support.
Through initiatives like Rooted in Nature, they continue to set a shining example for culinary excellence with a focus on environmental sustainability and authenticity. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience that celebrates the rich tapestry of Sabah Borneo, making Shangri-La Rasa Ria a true gem in the heart of North Borneo.
