Crystal Yip Yoke-Lin, Joaquim Dias Soeiro, Stephanie Chuah Hui-Wen, and S. Mostafa Rasoolimanesh

Abstract: This study proposes a context-specific sustainability index for hotels and resorts in developing countries (e.g., Malaysia), aligning with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals. The proposed index consists of five dimensions: social, economic, environmental, resilience, and governance. Using the Delphi method and the Analytical Hierarchy Process, a finalised index with 119 indicators was established. Findings show that governance is the most significant dimension, followed by economic, resilience, social, and environmental. This study paves the way for a comprehensive sustainability index, aiding hotel practitioners in assessing sustainability levels and assisting global tourism policymakers in crafting effective strategies to promote responsible practices.

Keywords: Hotel and resorts sustainability index, social, economic, environmental, resilience, governance, hybrid Delphi-AHP approach, sustainable development goals