From bellman to sustainability champion, Khun Payap “Pong” Khunkayan and his team transform a hillside farm into a model of responsible luxury on Thailand's southern coast

KOH SAMUI, THAILAND  – Conrad Koh Samui has been named Asia's Green Hotelier of the Year by The Stellliers, one of the region's most prestigious hospitality award platforms. The award celebrates the resort's ongoing investment in meaningful sustainability practices, anchored by its regenerative farming initiative, Iris Farm, and the leadership of Payap “Pong” Khunkayan, a former bellman who now leads the hotel's environmental efforts.

“Sustainability at Conrad Koh Samui is not checklist, it is a philosophy that shapes how we operate and how we connect with our community and environment,” said Marco Araujo, general manager, Conrad Koh Samui. “Being recognized by Stelliers affirms the heart-led word of Khun Pong and our team in creating experiences that are both luxurious and low-impact for our guests.”

Nestled across 7.5 acres of hillside overlooking the Gulf of Thailand, Iris Farm is a cornerstone of Conrad Koh Samui's commitment to responsible luxury. What began as a modest garden has evolved into a thriving, closed-loop ecosystem producing up to 70% of the resort's vegetables, herbs, edible flowers, and eggs during peak season. More than a supply source, the farm is a living model of environmental stewardship, underpinned by circular farming principles that prioritize soil health, water conservation, biodiversity, and waste minimization.

At the heart of the farm's transformation is Khun Pong, whose journey from bell desk to sustainability lead reflects that property's dedication to nurturing talent and purpose. Under his guidance, the farm repurposes food waste into nutrient-rich compost that feeds the land and closes the loop from kitchen to soil. The addition of goats, chickens, and buffalo strengthens natural pest control and fertilization systems, creating a resilient agricultural ecosystem rooted in Thai traditions.

More than a back-of-house operation, Iris Farm offers immersive guest experiences where visitors can plant herbs, collect eggs, feed animals, and harvest ingredients for their own meals. These interactive elements foster a deeper understanding of food origins and sustainable living, in line with Conrad's promise of purposeful luxury.

The farm's produce powers Conrad Koh Samui's culinary program, inspiring menus that reflect the rhythms of the land and reduce food miles and packaging waste. Signature dishes across the resort's dining venues are crafted with seasonal ingredients from the farm, offering guests a taste of the island's bounty while supporting local sourcing.

Beyond the farm, the resort's Travel with Purpose initiative includes community engagement and environmental restoration efforts such as mangrove planting at Taling Ngam and coastal clean-ups. These actions are designed to protect Samui's natural heritage and empower future generations with a model of sustainable tourism that benefits both people and planet.

For more information on the Iris Farm and Conrad Koh Samui, please visit conradkohsamui.com or email Conrad_Koh_Samui@conradhotels.com.