CycleDios, a homegrown Malaysian brand, has emerged as a key player in promoting ecotourism through its innovative bike-sharing and cycling tourism initiatives. By offering smart bike rental services, CycleDios encourages eco-friendly transportation, fosters community engagement, and supports sustainable tourism practices that align with the principles of ecotourism—conserving the environment, empowering local communities, and enhancing cultural and environmental awareness.

CycleDios Campus Bike Share Service (CCBSS), launched at institutions like UTAR Kampar Campus on September 1, 2024, exemplifies the brand’s commitment to sustainable mobility. Designed for university and college campuses, this program provides students, faculty, and staff with a convenient, low-carbon alternative for short-distance travel within campus grounds. By reducing reliance on motorized vehicles, CCBSS helps lower carbon footprints, aligning with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The initiative also promotes healthy lifestyles through cycling, encouraging physical activity while minimizing environmental impact. The CycleDios Campus app enhances user experience with seamless bike rentals, ride tracking, and reliable bike availability, making it an accessible and eco-conscious choice for campus communities.

CycleDios has also made significant strides in promoting cycling tourism, a form of ecotourism that allows travelers to explore destinations sustainably. In Ipoh, Malaysia, CycleDios collaborated with the Adventure Tourism Programme of Sungai Siput and Lenggong Community Colleges, engaging 37 students and educators in a cycling tour. 

The 5km route along the Kinta River introduced participants to hidden gems like the Sultan Idris Shah Bridge and the Sleeping Dragon Tree, areas inaccessible by car. Guided by knowledgeable staff, the tour provided educational commentary, fostering appreciation for local culture and natural heritage. This initiative not only promotes physical activity but also bridges generational gaps by evoking nostalgic cycling experiences, as noted by Camees Foong, CycleDios’s Management General Manager.

Additionally, CycleDios’s “Pilot project for schools” with St. Michael’s Institution (SMI) in Ipoh involved 250 students and teachers in a wellness-focused cycling excursion at Taman DR. This event emphasized mental health, community bonding, and environmental awareness, showcasing how cycling can be integrated into educational frameworks to promote holistic well-being. By leveraging local infrastructure like parks, CycleDios creates low-impact tourism experiences that respect natural and cultural environments.

CycleDios’s efforts align closely with the principles of ecotourism outlined by The International Ecotourism Society (TIES): minimizing environmental impact, building cultural and environmental awareness, and providing positive experiences for both visitors and hosts. Their bike-sharing services reduce greenhouse gas emissions, while their tourism initiatives educate participants about local ecosystems and cultural landmarks. By collaborating with schools, colleges, and communities, CycleDios empowers local stakeholders, ensuring that tourism benefits are shared equitably.

With 16 bike rental stations across Malaysia, including one in Labuan, CycleDios demonstrates scalability in its mission to promote eco-friendly travel. Their community-driven approach, as seen in partnerships with educational institutions, fosters local empowerment and sustainable development. By involving local guides and educators, CycleDios ensures that tourism activities are authentic and respectful of cultural heritage, further enhancing the ecotourism experience.

CycleDios is redefining ecotourism in Malaysia by integrating sustainable transportation with immersive, educational cycling experiences. Through initiatives like CycleDios Campus and community-focused cycling tours, the brand promotes environmental conservation, healthy lifestyles, and cultural appreciation. As ecotourism continues to gain traction globally, CycleDios serves as a model for how innovative bike-sharing and tourism programs can create a positive impact on both the environment and local communities.

Sources:  

CycleDios Campus Bike Share Service, UTAR Kampar  

Promoting Cycling Tourism, Ipoh Echo  

St. Michael’s Institution’s Wellness Excursion with CycleDios, Ipoh Echo  

CycleDios Campus, Google Play  

What Is Ecotourism, The International Ecotourism Society