Ikhlas is the in-house magazine of The Datai Langkawi, created as a reflection of the ideas, people, and places that shape life in and around Malaysia. It moves beyond a traditional resort publication to explore stories of culture, heritage, creativity and the natural world, offering perspectives that are both local and far-reaching.
Across its pages, Ikhlas brings together voices from within the resort and the wider community, from Creative Minds and Our People to Wellness and Culinary Craft. It journeys through Malaysia’s landscapes and hidden corners – from Penang to Mount Kinabalu, from vibrant diving sites to the layered history of Peranakan culture and more.
It also turns its attention to design, architecture, artisanal craft and style, alongside community work and environmental sustainability, with a particular focus on the people, partners and initiatives of The Datai Pledge. Together, these threads reflect the spirit and DNA of The Datai Langkawi.
In this 11th edition of Ikhlas, discover inspiring stories that celebrate culture, community, and nature – from Alena Murang’s evocative sape music and the transformative power of storytelling with Juliet Kinsman, to how eco-schools are nurturing the next generation of environmental stewards, alongside explorations of Langkawi’s landscapes and beyond.
In our 10th edition of Ikhlas, we showcase our collaboration with our partner for The Datai Pledge, The Kanshalife Project, take you through the wonders of North Borneo’s wilderness, tell the story of a tree thought extinct yet rediscovered in our bay, and more.
In this special 2-part collector’s edition, we invite readers to journey through our rich history, remarkable people, and the natural wonders of Langkawi.
Welcome to a very special issue of IKHLAS. This year marks the 30th anniversary of The Datai Langkawi, a milestone that we are all excited to celebrate with you.
In our seventh issue, we take readers into the minds of creative culinary talents, both local and abroad, who have graced The Datai Langkawi in The Chef Series.
In our sixth issue, we focused on the techniques for basket weaving, saving hornbills, rainforest conservation, and the best diving spots in Malaysia.
In our fifth issue, we showcased the traditional technique of batik making and introduced our efforts to protect marine life around Langkawi island.
In our fourth issue, we highlighted the honey made in our garden and shared healing wisdom from one of Langkawi’s renowned practitioners.
In our third issue, we introduced our own unique form of Forest Bathing and had a look at the history of the Malaysian Peranakan culture.
In the second issue, we showcased our first Datai branded gin, the delicious Thai cuisine on offer at The Pavilion and had a look at travelling in Penang.
With the inaugural issue, we celebrated the reopening of The Datai Langkawi. Features included articles on the inspiration behind the hotel design, and more.