The Datai Langkawi Announces ‘Chapter 3’ Of Its 30th Anniversary Celebrations

Sandra MacGregor | Sep 18, 2023,02:32pm

In an extraordinary homage to the surrounding rainforest and stunning Datai Bay, legendary Malaysian resort The Datai Langkawi will dedicate Chapter 3 of its 30th Anniversary festivities to ‘Celebrating our Nature’. From September 22 to October 1, 2023, the resort will host sessions and excursions led by researchers, NGOs, and charities. There will also be a wildlife photography exhibition and charity auction.

Nestled on the northwestern tip of Malaysia’s Langkawi Island, The Datai Langkawi stands as one of the world’s most captivating resorts. This extraordinary property is located in an ancient rainforest teeming with wildlife. It offers breathtaking views of the serene Datai Bay, recognized by National Geographic as one of the planet’s top 10 beaches. The iconic resort enchants visitors with its harmonious blend of natural beauty, visionary architecture, sophistication and warm Malaysian hospitality.

Incredible Expert-Led Nature Experiences and Sessions

Celebrated Malaysian naturalist and chief advisor to The Datai Pledge, Irshad Mobarak, will share his insight on Langkawi’s rich biodiversity through bird-watching sessions, talks and more on the ‘Great Hornbills of Datai’.

Famed wildlife photographer and environmental advocate, Peter Ong, will be showcasing the flora and fauna of Southeast Asia through a fascinating photography exhibition. Guests who are interested in wildlife and photography can join Ong for jungle tours and photography workshops.

During the Chapter 3 celebrations, guests can also enjoy sessions led by Malaysia’s only NGO dedicated to marine mammal conservation MareCet, which conducts research in the biodiverse waters of Langkawi. Activities will include spending a day with with Dolphins and dolphin scientists, as well as interactive sessions at the Marine Mammal Lab or take in talks like Marine Mammals & Underwater Sound. There’s also activities for young guests.

Dinner and Charity Auction

Concluding the penultimate chapter of the year-long festivities, a fundraising gala is scheduled for September 29th, featuring a prominent charity auction as the main attraction. There will be online bidding from now until September 27th or you can take part in person at the gala event. All proceeds will go to conservation initiatives focused on the critically endangered Malayan Tiger, in collaboration with organizations such as Save Wild Tigers Malaysia, RIMAU Malaysia, and Habitat Foundation Malaysia. This allows everyone, whether from around the world or attending the gala, to contribute significantly to the preservation of Malaysia’s biodiversity.

The auction will include things like a holiday adventures such as a tropical escape to the Datai Langkawi, a city getaway at The RuMa Hotel & Residences in Kuala Lumpur, and an unforgettable three-night journey on the luxury Eastern and Oriental Express.

Exquisite artwork lots, such as a print of a Malayan Tiger by award-winning photographer Sanjitpaal Singh; and a handcrafted Lotus Arts de Vivre duo with a bowl embellished with a Sterling Silver tiger claw and a chopping board, create opportunities to take art home while helping to conserve the magnificent creatures that inspired them.

Or go for contemporary pieces like a shimmering, sequin-encrusted Roberto Cavalli dress; a photograph collage by artist Piers Bourke that reimagines the Federated Malay State 1901 postal stamp depicting the Malayan tiger; and a lovely portrait of a tiger by Penang-born artist Christine Das.

Malaysian singer and former West End actor Sean Ghazi and self-dubbed “Kebaya Jazz Queen” Ida Mariana will entertain that evening; while Chef Lewis Barker, who helms the Michelin-starred restaurant ‘Sommer’ in Singapore, will deliver a gastronomic adventure with a six-course dinner.

The Datai Langkawi 30th Anniversary Celebrations

For its 30th Anniversary, Malaysia’s legendary The Datai Langkawi is sharing its story through four ‘Chapters’. Each chapter consists of events and residencies honouring community, culture, and nature, before concluding with a ‘30 Years of The Datai’ Finale. The second and most recent chapter from 23 June to 2 July was a successful series of workshops, pop-ups, and exhibitions by renowned Malaysian artisans, culminating in a fashion show and six-hand dinner at The Beach Club, with the entire chapter celebrating the arts and crafts of Malaysia.