We speak to Fadzli Luqman, the in-house Marine Biologist at Langkawi’s Ritz-Carlton about the hotel’s efforts to provide memorable learning programmes for guests of all ages.

We were surrounded by magnificent views of palm trees, luxurious villas, and families enjoying the beach during our learning visit to the Ritz-Carlton, Langkawi. What really piqued our interest, however, was a small circular outdoor tank. As we peered inside, peculiar squishy-looking creatures moved about slowly.

“When we think of marine ecosystems, we often think of the ocean, dolphins, sea turtles, but we do not talk about sea cucumbers. Why is that?” in-house Marine Biologist Fadzli Luqman pondered as we examined the contents of the tank.

For Fadzli, there is a uniqueness in sea cucumbers (Holothuria leicospilota) that deserves attention. He believes in highlighting these unsung heroes of our oceans to the Ritz-Carlton’s visitors.

Sea cucumbers are a fascinating and enigmatic group of marine creatures. Sharing a taxonomic lineage with starfish (recently renamed as sea stars) and sea urchins, they play a pivotal role in our marine ecosystems, yet have received limited attention for their unique biology and ecological significance in Malaysian research.

Known as the vacuum cleaners of the ocean, sea cucumbers keep the ocean floors clean and healthy. An article on OceansAsia highlights how sea cucumbers play an essential role in nutrient cycling by reducing organic loads and aiding in redistributing surface sediments.

In Malaysia, sea cucumbers, also known as gamat in Malay, are believed to have various health benefits when consumed in dried form or as an extract. Despite their significance in traditional medicine and cuisine, knowledge about them varies amongst different segments of society, decreasing especially amongst urbanites who have no direct connection to marine environments or traditional practices involving sea cucumbers.

“One of the main reasons we chose sea cucumbers is because we are based in Langkawi. Langkawi is known as the main destination to purchase minyak gamat [oil infused with sea cucumber extract], but to my surprise, lots of people don’t know that sea cucumbers can be found here “
– Fadzil shares

The dedicated team at Ritz-Carlton aims not only to showcase the importance of sea cucumbers but also to transform tourism through education and sustainability efforts.

We chose to highlight our unsung heroes of the ocean because of their uniqueness, and we want to bring awareness to their importance towards the ecosystem and to the local communities,” Fadzli explains.

Celebrating the sea cucumber

Shining a figurative spotlight on their resident sea cucumbers, Fadzli and his team ensure that all guests staying at the Hotel have an opportunity to learn about sea cucumbers with an enjoyable guided tour of the nursery.

“It’s always amazing to know that our guests are surprised by how important these sea cucumbers are to our marine ecosystems,” Fadzli adds.

Resident sea cucumber (Holothuria lecospilota) in the hotel’s nursery.
Photo by Rebecca Anne Chin, The Habitat Foundation.  

Explore, experience, and enlighten

Showing their commitment to nature education, the Ritz-Carlton is one of the few hotels which has designed its own educational modules and programmes.

“Even though we are still new and have a lot to learn about sustainability, we see it as an opportunity to experiment with different approaches. Other than just operating sustainably, we hope to make an impact on our guests as well by creating awareness and a connection towards the importance of taking care of our nature,”
– Fadzli emphasises.

Aside from its focus on sea cucumbers, the Hotel also has an Eco-Discovery Centre with a kids club for in-house guests.

Warmly welcomed to the Eco-Discovery Centre by Fadzli Luqman and Sarah Hani.
Photo by Ritz-Carlton, Langkawi.

The Ritz Kids programme encourages young guests to explore the sights and sounds within the Hotel grounds. With an abundance of wildlife such as the long-tailed macaque, dusky langurs, oriental pied, and great hornbills, children are introduced to the four pillars of the programme (Water, Land, Environmental Responsibility, and Culture) through engaging play-and-learn methods. 

“When teaching the children, it’s important to make a good impression on them. They remember better when you’re engaged with them during the activity”
– says Sarah Hani, a Marine Biologist Intern.

Children shape recycled materials into marine animal figurines at the
Eco-Discovery Centre. Photo by Rebecca Anne Chin, The Habitat Foundation.

As more hotels start to incorporate sustainable practices in their operations, the investment in learning activities for guests goes a long way to nurture connection to nature and concern for the marine environment. 

Find out more about Ritz Kids here
Related reading: Island Resort Shares 5 Lessons on Waste Management

Writers: Rebecca Anne Chin (The Habitat Foundation)
Contributors: Ritz-Carlton, Langkawi staff: Fadzli Luqman (Marine Biologist), Sarah Hani (Marine Biologist Intern)