LANGKAWI has the potential to become a zero-waste destination where habits of recycling and banning of pollutants such as plastics, can be prevailing.
In fact, the island is close to attaining such a status and can be done with close collaboration between the public and private sectors, Langkawi Development Authority (LADA) tourism division manager Dr Azmil Munif Mohd Bukhari said.
"For one, we are an island. We can contain the inflow of unnecessary goods. We have two hotels which are regarded as green and sustainable."
Azmil cited the resorts of Frangipani and Datai, as green-dominant hospitality properties here.
Azmil was speaking at a zero-waste conference which was held in conjunction with the inaugural Green and Geoparks Excellence Awards (GAGA).
There are no 100% zero waste islands in the region (ASEAN) but several islands are making significant progress through community-led initiatives and sustainable practices.
Among the examples are in the Philippines' Siquijor, Isla Verde and Apo Island while in Indonesia, it is the Banda Islands.
Azmil said that attaining a zero-waste status, is not a dream but a concrete effort, which is achievable.
The status can complement the existing Unesco geopark status, which also advocates sustainable practises in line with the zero waste principles.
"We are close. We must have the determination to ensure it can be achieved," said Azmil.
Azmil also disclosed that LADA is now mulling about capping tourism arrivals to avoid excess handling of visitors, as part of the sustainable adherence.
"We now hope to capture more affluent tourists rather than just mass numbers. It is to prevent overcrowding in some instances," said Azmil.
Among the keynote speakers at the event, are Penang Green Council general manager Josephine Tan, regional anti-plastic campaigner (GAIA Asia Pacific) Shibu K. Nair from India, Filipino academic Dr Arlen Angelada - Ancheta and Zero Waste Cities programme manager (Bali) Indra Wahyuni, who is an Indonesian. - November 22, 2025.
