Hotels in Kuala Lumpur [Archive]

johnsonooi

August 15th, 2006, 03:51 PM

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As you step into the plush lobby of the award-winning Sheraton Imperial, Kuala Lumpur , you can sense its grandeur and opulence. This urban recreation of Malaysian customs, culture, and heritage features imported Italian marble and polished timber complemented by Malaysian accents and attentive service. Adorned with original artwork, the ambience in this five-star hotel is one of upscale luxury.

The luxurious journey continues from the grandeur of the four-story high lobby atrium into our 398 guest rooms. The Executive Room will awe you with its spaciousness - measuring 42 square metres, it is the largest in the city for its category. Wake up each morning to the spectacular backdrop of either the Twin Towers or KL Tower. Further indulgences await in the Executive Club Room, where you will receive the ultimate in pampering, including 24-hour personalized Butler service and access to our exclusive Club Lounge.

We are only minutes away from the city's top commercial, shopping and business districts. Situated in the Golden Triangle, there is no shortage of leisure activities, from visiting the Petronas Twin Towers or KL Tower to teeing off on area golf courses, shopping at KLCC and Bintang Walk, or bargain hunting at Chinatown. The Hard Rock Café entertainment strip is just down the street and right outside our door is the dining and entertainment strip, Asean Heritage Row - a charming row of tastefully refurbished pre-war residences which now house a wide variety of restaurants, cafes, wine bars, and night spots. And you'll be able to access all parts of Kuala Lumpur and adjoining suburbs by hopping onto the Light Rail Transit (LRT) or the Monorail - both stations are a mere five minutes from the hotel entrance.

Or if you prefer to stay closer to "home," simply relax in the Jacuzzi or sample our restaurants' tantalizing cuisine, whether you're craving Dim Sum or Italian favourites.

Surround yourself with luxury and style at the Sheraton Imperial, Kuala Lumpur.

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johnsonooi

August 15th, 2006, 03:56 PM

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Gaze out over the city center as you swim in the Hilton Kuala Lumpur hotel's 400-foot freeform pool, with a tropical sun deck. Indulge in a spa treatment in the luxurious spa and sample award-winning Asian fusion cuisine at Senses restaurant. Enjoy panoramic views from the Executive Lounge.

Try new wines at the Vintage Bank or tea served with kung fu moves at Chynna restaurant. Relax in the sauna and steam rooms or work out with a free cardio-kick boxing class. If you can drag yourself away, the best Kuala Lumpur attractions are nearby. Walk to the National Bird Park, the Central Market or the Petronas Towers.

Less than 30 minutes from Kuala Lumpur Airport, the Hilton Kuala Lumpur hotel offers a business center, Executive Lounge and 13 meeting rooms for 10-1500. From Deluxe Rooms to Suites, all Hilton Kuala Lumpur hotel rooms have high-speed internet access and inset TVs in bathrooms. Executive Rooms offer Executive Lounge access.

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johnsonooi

August 15th, 2006, 04:00 PM

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In the heart of Kuala Lumpur's business and shopping district, The Westin Kuala Lumpur is the newest five-star hotel in Malaysia's Golden Triangle. All 384 guest rooms feature the famous Heavenly Bed® and views of either the spectacular KLCC Twin Towers or the historical city of Kuala Lumpur.

Westin's Executive Residences are fully equipped apartments tailored toward longer stays. Featuring a separate entrance from the main lobby, each apartment features contemporary furnishings, a complete kitchen setup with appliances, exquisite home entertainment system, separate study and workstation with High Speed Internet Access, and a glass enclosed lanai with ample daylight. In addition, our hotel offers 13 contemporary meeting and conference venues, including The Westin Grand Ballroom with the Martin Architectural Lighting for an extensive variety of lighting effects and projections. We also offer a business center, Executive Club Lounge with 24-hour broadband Internet service. Innovative dining options include everything from authentic Italian to Pan Asian, healthy poolside snacks, or a Cuban bar/Latin grill.

Discover the epitome of modern luxury at The Westin Kuala Lumpur!

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baqthier

August 15th, 2006, 05:19 PM

Great thread! SO far I think Grand Maya has the best looking lobby! :)

Very Controversial

August 16th, 2006, 01:26 AM

Nice hotels.

johnsonooi

August 16th, 2006, 05:09 AM

I will try to post the pic of hotel lobby too....more pics and info are welcomed as well as your opinions about the hotels

victinst

August 16th, 2006, 07:54 AM

show me more picture oh the Best Business Hotel In Asia..
and Readers Digest Superbrand HILTON KL

baqthier

August 16th, 2006, 11:18 AM

Grand Maya Lobby

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baqthier

August 16th, 2006, 11:24 AM

Marriott Putrajaya

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Very Controversial

August 16th, 2006, 01:46 PM

What's up with Le Meridian and Hilton looking alike? Anyways, they are both nice buildings.

johnsonooi

August 16th, 2006, 02:08 PM

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Towering majestically at 6,000 feet above sea level is the five-star international class Genting Hotel. It offers an extensive range of entertainment and recreational facilities for the discerning guests.

Deluxe Room

Room Features:-
- One king sized bed or two twin sized beds
- Satellite TV
- In-house radio
- Tea & coffee making facilities
- Mini fridge
- Safe box
- Hair dryer
- Long bath and shower

Junior Suite Twin

Inclusive of buffet breakfast for two at Coffee Terrace

Room Features:-
- Satellite TV
- In-house radio
- Tea & coffee making facilities
- Mini fridge
- Safe box
- Hair dryer
- Long bath and shower

Business centre (Internet access available), non-smoking rooms, interconnecting rooms, handicapped facilities, indoor heated swimming pool, Jacuzzi, iron and ironing board, baby cot, shopping outlets, casino, car park (free parking)

The Olive, Ming Ren Restaurant, Genting Palace, Coffee Terrace, Lao Di Fang, New Orleans Barbecue, The Bakery, Safari Disco, Sports Book, Cloud 9, Be A Star Karaoke Box, fast food restaurants

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alsen

August 16th, 2006, 03:34 PM

What's up with Le Meridian and Hilton looking alike? Anyways, they are both nice buildings.

here's the answer
http://www.emporis.com/en/il/im/?id=413794

Global Davao

August 17th, 2006, 05:47 AM

gud day people. ill be going there on september...
im a filipino... ill be staying there to have a vacation for 3 days...
i want to go to genting highlands... how can i book my self?
also, ill stay in kuala villas, is it near petronas?
tnx

johnsonooi

August 17th, 2006, 06:58 AM

just log on to www.genting.com.my for information of genting hotels
gud day people. ill be going there on september...
im a filipino... ill be staying there to have a vacation for 3 days...
i want to go to genting highlands... how can i book my self?
also, ill stay in kuala villas, is it near petronas?
tnx

Global Davao

August 17th, 2006, 08:58 AM

hello john! im going to stay there for 3 days...
my plans are ghenting, petronas and etc...
any sugestions? do you nid to book if you want to go to ghenting? or just
go there directly?

johnsonooi

August 17th, 2006, 11:52 AM

hello john! im going to stay there for 3 days...
my plans are ghenting, petronas and etc...
any sugestions? do you nid to book if you want to go to ghenting? or just
go there directly?

Good day Global Davao....Welcome to malaysia and I might get some "intel" for you about hotels and tourism in Malaysia as much as I could gather....

However, since I am aboarded at Melbourne and Our Abang Sze works and lives in KL...I think Ah sze is more qualified to be your tour guide around KL as well as Petronas Twin Towers, which the place that he is "specialise"...

Brother Sze, can you help global Davao help and give a warm welcome to our friend?

travellator

August 17th, 2006, 01:24 PM

global davao,
Genting
As johnsonooi suggested you can access the website for information and accomodation bookings. BUT if you are not really interested in the casino or night shows, genting can be be done as a day trip. There are lots of buses and taxis that go there from the city and its only 1 1/2 hours drive away. Ask at your hotel
Places to visit in KL
Petronas Twin towers- get tickets(free) to the skybridge
Visit Days: Tuesday to Sunday (closed on Monday)
Visit Hours: From 9 am to 5 pm (closed for Friday Prayer from 1pm to 2:30pm)
You collect your tickets at the concourse level(basement) of the tower(look out for the signs) This is NOT the concourse level of Suria Mall.
Menara KL(KL Tower)
higher than the petronas towers
Open daily from 9AM - 10PM
Sultan Abdul Samad buildings & Dataran Merdeka(Independence Sq)
Majid negara(National mosque), Old Railway Station Buildings
Istana Negara The King's official palace
you can't go in just look in from the gates
Parliament house, War memorial
Taman Perdana
large park with a bird park, butterfly farm and orchid garden

Shopping
good buys are electronic & computer related products, cameras/videocams, mobile phones, watches, pens, chocolates, clothes, shoes, branded leather goods.

major shopping areas- city centre
Bukit Bintang, Suria at the twin towers
Petaling Street Chinatown(open air street market)

outside city centre
Midvalley, 1 Utama, Damansara Perdana(IKEA)

Night restaurants /bars
Bukit Bintang area, Changkat Bukit Bintang, Heritage row(next to Sheraton Imperial Hotel), Jalan Sultan Ismail, Jalan P Ramlee, Petaling Street. Street food eaten on tables set up on the pavements is cheap and usually tasty do try it.

If you are arriving in KL International Airport, you can take the KLIA express train into the city rather than a taxis. ticket price to KL sentral station is RM35 & you can take a taxi from the station to the hotel, tickets can be bought at the counter located at the baggage belt area.

travellator

August 17th, 2006, 01:31 PM

dudes, any more suggestions for visitors to KL

Greg

August 17th, 2006, 02:27 PM

Do something off the tourist tracks. Check out little india for example. If you have time, check out Putrajaya. If you like nature there are the wonderful Taman Wetlands or the famous fireflies of Selangor. Happy holidays, how I envy you. :)

Global Davao

August 17th, 2006, 03:27 PM

hey! i really appriciate all ur suggestions... im a filipino... my friend said that when youll go to malaysia, its like youre still in the philippines... why not? we belong in the SEastAsian Region! well spend 3 days there...
i guess this is what were going to do...
Day 1 just city tour
Day 2 Genting/Petronas (just go to genting for the fun rides!)
Day 3 I really want to see the place of your Agong!! also the KLCtower...
then well go to bangkok after...

anyways, ive been to malaysia, but just in johor...
i think were going to stay at city villas... is this near petronas?
tnx!

johnsonooi

August 17th, 2006, 04:03 PM

In day 2, you might wanna to visit the new aquarium near KLCC and dont forget to visit Petrosains, an science showcase gallery and also the Gelleri Petronas, where artists put their masterpieces for showcases...

Oh ya...dont forget to enjoy yourself o...I feel so sorry that I cant help you much...thanks for Greg and Travellator......

Global Davao

August 17th, 2006, 04:08 PM

travellator

August 17th, 2006, 06:18 PM

if ill go to ghenting in the morning and ride all i can... will i be able to finish it at around 2pm and go back to KL to see petronas?
yes, just go in the early morning and leave after lunch, the shopping mall at the Petronas towers is open till 10pm and the restaurants & bistros facing the park close later. Outside the towers along Jalan P Ramlee the area has many bars & restaurants and you can hangout there till late. If you like themepark rides, there is a small indoor theme park in Berjaya Times Sq in the Bukit Bintang area.
City villas is slightly out of the city centre but its close to chow kit monorail station and from there you can travel easily, Jalan Tuanku Abdul Rahman is close by the hotel this is in the older part of the city and has many interesting shops, another closeby street is Jalan Raja Luat and the Chow Kit area all these are older shopping streets you can check out
Have a enjoyable and safe trip :)

johnsonooi

August 17th, 2006, 06:18 PM

yeah... tnx again greg and travellator...
im really excited... kuala lumpurs my choice... bangkoks my friends...

if ill go to ghenting in the morning and ride all i can... will i be able to finish it at around 2pm and go back to KL to see petronas?

I reckon that visit petronas is the first priority since the ticket to sky bridge is limited.....and then you may visit genting sometimes....

However, I highly recommended that you should extent your stay in KL.....:D

oh ya, are you from cebu? I have a sense that you are from cebu :cheers:

baqthier

August 17th, 2006, 06:58 PM

Some pics of attractions in KL. Enjoy ;)

Batu Caves (taken by Netochka http://www.flickr.com/photos/-netochka-/ of Flickr.com
http://static.flickr.com/38/105263297_90737fea25_b.jpg

Sunway Lagoon ( taken by Eisbachlocal http://www.flickr.com/photos/87778366@N00/ of Flickr.com)
http://static.flickr.com/38/80099091_b611711cd1_o.jpg

If you like some hiking, Klang Gates resevoir You'll get a very nice view of Kuala Lumpur skyline)
View of skyline .taken by Rhysanis of Flickr.com

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Hikers (taken by chunghan of flickr.com)

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Some view (taken by chunghan of flickr.com)

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Jalan P Ramlee and Jalan Ampang (street for clubbers and night outers) taken by moon_unit of flickr.com

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taken by dnydegger of flickr.com

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Kampung Baru (Village life in the middle of the city. You'll also get street performers and traders who would love to prove their point)

taken by vinc of flickr.com
http://static.flickr.com/77/204936189_685b03cf11.jpg?v=0

Aquaria KLCC!
taken by Zairi of flickr.com
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Petaling street aka Chinatown!

http://static.flickr.com/73/202787559_cacfabf866_o.jpg

Global Davao

August 18th, 2006, 04:25 AM

ah... id love to extend but we need to go to bangkok... no im not from cebu, though i always go there... im from davao... southern part of the Philippines...

anyways, so wat if the free tickets not already available? how much would it cost...
tnx for being so nice...

myf282828

August 20th, 2006, 07:33 PM

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Global Davao

September 10th, 2006, 08:38 AM

just came from kl... very nice airport...
we went to ghenting, kl tower, negara museum and the petronas....
kl's very different compared to other sea countries...
very dveloped...

tnx for the infos...
we enjoyed alot...

nazrey

May 13th, 2007, 02:30 PM

Corus Hotel KL To Spend RM3.0 Mln To Upgrade Facilities
Updated : 12-05-2007
Media : Bernama

KUALA LUMPUR, May 12 (Bernama) -- Corus Hotel Kuala Lumpur will spend up to RM3.0 million to refurbish its facilities as part of the Corus' nationwide on-going programme to enhance comfort for its guests.

Corus Hotel Kuala Lumpur is a part of the Corus chain which is based in UK. Corus is a mid-market hotel group with over 40 properties in the UK and two in Malaysia, Corus Hotel Kuala Lumpur and Corus Paradise Resort in Port Dickson.

Corus Hotel Kuala Lumpur's vice president/group general manager, Pel Loh, said the investment involved the upgrading of its 388 rooms, the addition of 12 new rooms called 'Paradise Cabana' as well as deluxe rooms and suites, gymnasium and spa facility.

She said the hotel had on April 17 launched a campaign, "Discover Real Comfort", a continuous programme to offer a bright, stylish and contemporary feel in line with Corus brand strategy.

"We want to tell our customers that we are continuously upgrading our products and we will ensure that our services are always up to the customer expectations.

"Basically, one of the things that we do is to change the entire bedding ... change the old comforters and bedspread with a duvet, change the pillows as well as the carpet," she told Bernama.

Loh said the rooms in Paradise Cabana, located at the same level as the swimming pool and gardens floor, had a unique glass bathroom which allowed the guests to catch the view of the bedroom while watching television in the bathtub.

Loh said Corus Hotel was also in the process of upgrading its spa facility.

"The boutique spa will offer all kinds of spa treatment, from Bali to Sweedish to Hawaiian," she said.

Conveniently situated in vicinity of the KLCC, the hotel is only five-minute walk to the Petronas Twin Towers, and just three-minute walk to the Putra light rail transit station, which provides easy access to the city's attractions.

Loh said Corus has also spent around RM500,000 to upgrade the lagoon in the Corus Paradise Resort, Port Dickson.

"The lagoon is the unique feature of this resort. That is why we want to upgrade this lagoon and ensure that it will continue to be attraction for the resort," she said.

Corus Paradise Resort, Port Dickson, formerly known as Paradise Lagoon Hotel is well-serviced by major roads and the North-South Expressway.

It is one-and-a-half-hour drive from Kuala Lumpur and 40 minutes from Kuala Lumpur International Airport.

Moving forward, Loh said Corus was also looking to venture into the hotel management business.

"We may look at the direction of hotel management riding on the Corus brand not only in Malaysia but around the world. We already had an invitation from West Asia to manage the hotel properties," she said.

nazrey

May 13th, 2007, 03:25 PM

Westin KL sees 20pc growth in profit
By Vasantha Ganesan
May 12 2007

http://www.btimes.com.my/Current_News/BT/Saturday/Nation/BT621934.txt/Article/Current_News/BT/Images/btgraph2/mice.jpg

The 452-room hotel is targeting an average room rate of RM430 this year

THE Westin Kuala Lumpur hopes to grow its net profit by a fifth this year on the back of higher average room rates (ARR), improved occupancy, and better contributions from its food and beverage business.

Coupled with its location in the shopping and tourist belt on Jalan Bukit Bintang, directly opposite the soon-to-open The Pavilion shopping centre and a service standard, which it takes great pride in, its newly appointed general manager Kim Powley is positive of the prospects for the hotel.

The hotel, which turns four this September, achieved net profitability in a record time of two-and-a-half years. And Powley plans to continue this winning streak and top last year's profit.

"We hope for another 15 to 20 per cent growth in net profit this year too," he said.

"(This year) We are targeting an average room rate (ARR) of RM430. (Overall), we are expecting a solid growth of between 15 per cent and 20 per cent in net profit, ARR and average occupancy," Powley said in an interview with Business Times.

At RM430 a night, The Westin is among the top three hotels in Kuala Lumpur that is able to fetch room rates comparable to its counterparts in the region. Rates of five-star hotels in Malaysia are said to be one of the lowest if not the lowest in the world.

Last year, this 452-room hotel's business grew between 14 per cent and 15 per cent in revenue and room rate.

Its 2006 ARR was RM363 while average occupancy touched 72 per cent. Compared with 2004, when the hotel was fetched RM285 in ARR and 65 per cent in average occupancy.

"The key thing we will be looking at is the market position/mix and looking for opportunities on how we can improve sales and marketing, on what is already an extremely good product," he said.

To this end, the hotel is looking at growing its meeting, incentive, convention and exhibition (Mice) market.

According to Powley, the Mice market currently makes up slightly less than half its business clientele.

"We will also reinforce and drive the brand experience. Our strategy is about creating memory and experiences and not just about selling guest bed.We will brand to reinforce and set us a part, to continue customer loyalty," he said.

Sixty per cent of the hotel's room is filled by business/corporate guests while the rest are leisure travellers.

Meanwhile, revenue from room and food and beverage (F&B) is split 60:40.

"Our F&B has seen a huge leap forward since 2005. The message in the market is that we are well respected, innovative and provide a refreshing experience. Relative to other markets, we offer value which is not just about the cost but the experience as well," he said.

Westin is a Starwood Group hotel. The latter runs Sheraton, Four Points by Sheraton, St. Regis and W Hotels.

Westin KL created history and set a sort of benchmark for future hotel transactions in Kuala Lumpur when the original owners Ireka Corp Bhd sold the hotel to Newood Asset Ltd for RM455 million or RM1 million per room.

nazrey

June 22nd, 2007, 07:47 AM

The Saujana gets RM60m facelift
By B Suresh Ram, 21 Jun 2007 2:51 PM
THEEDGEDAILY

PETALING JAYA: The Saujana Kuala Lumpur (http://www.hotelz.com.au/59155), a property managed by General Hotel Management (GHM) will undergo a major refurbishment and will emerge as a premium high-end lodging facility with The Club spearheading its transformation.

The ongoing renovation works are scheduled to be completed by mid-2008, said The Saujana’s general manager Herbert Laubichler-Pichler.
Speaking to reporters at the unveiling of The Club here yesterday, he said there would be two renovation phases, with the first phase costing RM60 million and the introduction of 78 club suites comprising six different types.

Laubichler-Pichler said The Club would feature stylish interiors with larger suites ranging from 55 to 176 sq metres.
The Club, which opens its doors in the second half of next year, will charge RM730 on average on the first year of operation and the rate will increase gradually to an average of RM1,000 within five years of operations.

Currently, the lodgers at The Saujana consist of 20% leisure seekers and 80% business travellers but Laubichler-Pichler sees this changing to 60% business and 40% leisure lodgers.

The operations and management of The Club and The Saujana will be separate despite sharing common amenities like workforce involved in the maintenance and upkeep of the grounds, he added.

Laubichler-Pichler said they expected a revenue RM65 million for both The Club and The Saujana in their first financial year of 2009.
An integral part of improved amenities offered exclusively to guests of club suites include butler services, a spa, exclusive restaurant and private swimming pool with a separate entrance from The Saujana.

Greg

June 23rd, 2007, 08:24 AM

Saudi Prince Alwaleed Bin Talal is bidding $190m for a five-star hotel in Kuala Lumpur, according to The Edge Financial Daily. The Renaissance Kuala Lumpur Hotel is a joint venture between IGB Corporation Bhd and Hong Kong's New World Group. The CEO of IGB says offers received so far are "nowhere near what we want" but would not disclose amounts or bidders. Alwaleed bought the Four Seasons Resort Langkawi in northern Malaysia in March.

triple-j

June 28th, 2007, 08:04 PM

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triple-j

June 28th, 2007, 08:14 PM

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White_soX

June 28th, 2007, 08:35 PM

oh cool my place, ritz residence!!!!!!

Greg

June 28th, 2007, 09:24 PM

Great pics triple-j. Did you do them yourself? Thanks a lot.

triple-j

June 30th, 2007, 02:48 AM

yup, but not with those fancy high tech camera...just normal digicam.

nazrey

August 4th, 2007, 02:18 AM

Tourists pack KL hotels
By Vasantha Ganesan
August 4 2007
BusinessTimes

The hotels have an average occupancy of 92.89 per cent in July, as a result of the push for Visit Malaysia Year and the Middle Eastern market has helped too, says hospitality consultant MIHR Consulting

HOTELS in Kuala Lumpur city centre were almost full in July, one of their best performances in years, as more tourists visited the country.
August could also be a record, said an industry consultant that compiled the figures.

"The light is brighter at the end of the tunnel," said Ivo Nekvapil, the group chairman and chief executive officer of hospitality consultant MIHR Consulting Sdn Bhd.

The hotels had an average occupancy of 92.89 per cent in July this year.

With such healthy numbers, the hotel industry could post a higher full-year average occupancy than projected earlier at 70 per cent.

"Occupancy level has been good since mid-June 2007 and will be so until mid-September 2007," Nekvapil said.

MIHR compiles the monthly data for hotels in the Klang Valley.

"The high occupancy levels were a result of the push for Visit Malaysia Year and the Middle Eastern market has helped as they have been the biggest group in the Klang Valley," Nekvapil said.

Some 33 four- and five-star hotels with total rooms of over 11,500 had submitted their July occupancy figures to MIHR.

Average room rate (ARR) per night in July, meanwhile, was RM284.34 with one hotel, the Mandarin Oriental, achieving close to RM600 per night.

This compares to July 2006 when the average occupancy and ARR was 80.6 per cent and RM249.19 respectively.

General manager of Dorsett Regency Christina Toh when contacted said, "We achieved 98.65 per cent occupancy last month, which was better than July 2006."

In fact, she said, the response at some hotels has been so overwhelming that there has been overbooking and the guests have had to be moved to another hotel.

Leo Kuscher, the general manager of The Royale Bintang Kuala Lumpur, said: "We had full occupancy in July 2007 and we expect August to be the same up until the first week of September."

Traditionally, average occupancy rates dwindle every year during the fasting month.

Kuscher added that its ARR for July and August 2007 is 25 per cent more than other months.

Meanwhile, Nekvapil, who is also the vice-president of the Malaysian Association of Hotels, said the industry body may have to revise its full-year occupancy forecast of 70 per cent.

nazrey

August 4th, 2007, 02:20 AM

Latest:
Everest to stir drink scene in KL
By Hamisah Hamid
August 4 2007
BusinessTimes

Come 2008, Dilmah, a Sri Lankan family-owned tea company, will open its first tea bar at the Hilton Kuala Lumpur

MOST Malaysians, depending on whom you talk to, would probably thank the British for two things: the wildly-popular Premier League football and afternoon tea.

While some employers may fret about tea time, a Sri Lankan company hopes to take advantage of Malaysians' fascination with tea.

Come 2008, the first tea bar in Malaysia will materialise when a Dilmah tea bar debuts in Kuala Lumpur.

Dilmah, a Sri Lankan family-owned tea company, has come up with various recipes for tea-based cocktails and mocktails.

Everest Products Sdn Bhd managing director Shankar Muniandy said Dilmah tea bars will only be located in hotels, keeping up with its premium brand.

"We plan to set up the first Dilmah tea bar in the Hilton Kuala Lumpur next year. We also plan for the tea bars to be in hotels in Sabah and Langkawi," he told a media briefing in Kuala Lumpur recently.

Everest Products, which started business two-and-a-half years ago, is the sole distributor of Dilmah tea in Malaysia.

According to Shankar, Malaysia's tea market is bigger than coffee due to the all-time favourite teh tarik.

And there is also the growing market of urban youths and young professionals who prefer premium drinks.

In fact, sales of Dilmah tea in Malaysia are growing steadily, doubling every year.

That is why Dilmah tea cocktail, mocktail, shooter and t-shake, made with the Dilmah t-series, are coming to Malaysian shores.

These come with names that will tease the curious. Examples are Sencha Chivas, Spirited Rosehip and Hibiscus, and Cinnamon Rum Lemonade, among others.

"The mocktails and cocktails are based on lifestyle concepts, targeted at lifestyle-driven people, the younger generation and hotel guests," Shankar said.

He said there are already 60 Dilmah tea bars in Europe.

Dilmah tea is produced by the Sri Lanka-based MJF Group, a family business.

MJF was founded in 1974 by Merill J. Fernando, the first non-British trained tea taster, who had his early tea training in Ceylon an, later, in the Mecca of tea - Mincing Lane, London.

The brand name Dilmah is an amalgam of the names of Fernando's sons, Dilhan and Malik, who are running the business.

Dilmah tea is exported to 92 countries worldwide.

D_Y2k.2^

August 6th, 2007, 04:37 AM

Its great to hear that the tourism industry is booming.I hope Visit Malaysia Year helps in increasing the figures for the next few years

PANORMUS

August 8th, 2007, 11:47 AM

Hi, my name is Gianni and I live in Italy, I have been KL in the 2005, I stay with my wife in the Ritz Carlton Hotel, but this hotel is not good for young people :-)

Hisyam

August 8th, 2007, 01:30 PM

Welcome to the Forum Palermo

PANORMUS

August 9th, 2007, 03:58 PM

Thanks my Malay friend ;-)

alsen

August 9th, 2007, 05:09 PM

Hi, my name is Gianni and I live in Italy, I have been KL in the 2005, I stay with my wife in the Ritz Carlton Hotel, but this hotel is not good for young people :-)

may i know why? :?

Skyprince

August 9th, 2007, 05:34 PM

Gianni, nice to hear you enjoyed your stay in Malaysia . There are many Italians nowadays everywhere on the streets of KL./ Ritz Carlton... mmm... never been there.. maybe its not good for young ppl because.. its far from KLCC or Bukit Bintang area ? ( i dunno the exact location too )

Maaan.. My Omani friend with his Emirati wife is now in KL.. for honeymoon.... I tried to secure a room in all hotels in KL and PJ .. but no rooms left ! Finally after dire negotiations I found a room in Pyramid Tower :(

Why don't they build more and more hotels :? :?

PANORMUS

August 10th, 2007, 03:29 PM

Hi Sky and Alsen, I love KL and the wonderful KLIA!! In Italy haven't this type of airport!! My Ritz Carlton room very good but the customers of the hotel were for transactions, the hotel is beautifulst but boring and in position a lot does not center them, after I stay in Pangkor Laut Resort, a dream!!!

Hisyam

August 10th, 2007, 04:10 PM

I've been to Pangkaor Laut too. Well....it is paradise...

nazrey

September 4th, 2007, 07:15 AM

KL hotels, serviced apartments record best performance in Aug
By Vasantha Ganesan
September 4 2007
BusinessTimes

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The hospitality industry has not seen such high numbers since the pre-economic crisis, and at that time, there were much fewer rooms and average room rates were much lower too, says MIHR Consulting

HOTELS and serviced apartments in Kuala Lumpur city centre had its best monthly performance in about 20 years in August, an industry body said.

Industry players thought that July set the record as rooms were almost full while average room rates (ARR) rose. They were pleasantly proven wrong.

"We have not seen such high numbers since the pre-economic crisis - but at that time there were much fewer rooms and ARR was much lower too," Ivo Nekvapil, the group chairman and chief executive officer of hospitality consultant MIHR Consulting Sdn Bhd said.

"The latest data (August 2007) is possibly the highest since the official setting up of the Tourism Ministry in 1987," he said.

Malaysia has been pushing tourism industry as a major money spinner for the economy. Visit Malaysia Year 2007 appears to be showing results as rich Middle East tourists make their way to the country.

MIHR compiles the monthly data for hotels in the Klang Valley.

Nekvapil expects the hotel occupancy during the fasting month to be at its highest too.

Traditionally, the average occupancy during the fasting period is at about 50 per cent, the lowest period during the year.

"Because of the positive trend (over the past two months), we expect occupancy during Ramadhan to hit about 60 per cent," Nekvapil said.

The average occupancy in August, based on data submitted by 33 hotels, was at 93.42 per cent with an average room rate of RM299.17.

In July the average occupancy was at 92.89 per cent with an average per night room priced at RM284.34.

Hotel and serviced apartments that had close to 100 per cent occupancy include Cititel Kuala Lumpur (99.23 per cent), Lanson Place (99.08 per cent), Swiss Garden (98.69 per cent) and Dorsett Regency (98.55 per cent).

In terms of highest ARR, Mandarin Oriental continued to lead the pack with RM639.39 per night. The Westin and The Ritz Carlton recorded an ARR of RM459.44 and RM450.98 respectively.

nazrey

September 27th, 2007, 10:51 AM

Hotel Maya
by chipple

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kamski

September 29th, 2007, 04:32 AM

THAT is my most favorite hotel in Malaysia. The company I used to work for made a study trip there and man, I must say I was very impressed with the design, most notably the interiors.

Have you seen the rooms they got?

White_soX

September 30th, 2007, 06:12 PM

looks lot like regency sin

AndyChongGM

October 3rd, 2007, 06:04 AM

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Hotel Noble, Kuala Lumpur is an ideal 2-Stars hotel for business and pleasure. Strategically located at the heart of the tourist complex at Kuala Lumpur where major shopping and business central can be easily accessed by road connections and public transport. It is at a stone throw away from many tourist attractions such as “Merdeka Square”, “National Monument”, “Jamek Mosque”, and the “Lake Garden”.Whereby, Kuala Lumpur’s Saturday biggest “Pasar Malam” (Night Market) just right in front of our door step. The Hotel nestled in the heart of Kuala Lumpur’s “Little India” and Jalan TAR (Tuanku Abdul Rahman) better known as the “Silk Street”

Hotel Homepage (http://www.hotelnoble.com)
Email: contact@hotelnoble.com

nazrey

January 19th, 2008, 05:58 AM

RM12m facelift for Grand Continental hotels
By Aaron Ngui Published: 2008/01/18
BusinessTimes

GRAND Hotels International Asia Pacific, which operates the Grand Continental chain of hotels in Malaysia, is spending close to RM12 million in a refurbishment exercise.

Work to install new upholstery, paintings, and lobby refurbishment at all nine of its hotels throughout the country is expected to start next month and will be completed in six months.

The group operates hotels in Kuala Lumpur, Kuching, Kuala Terengganu, Penang, Kuantan, Malacca, Alor Star, Langkawi and Kuantan.

Hotel Grand Continental Penang manager Dennis Cheng said the refurbishment exercise was to enhance its competitiveness and corporate image.

"The hotel industry is very competitive, so we need to better our image to remain competitive," he said yesterday after announcing that every Grand Continental Hotel in the country now had wireless-fidelity (wi-fi) service for guests.

Cheng said about RM1 million had been spent to install the infrastructure needed for the service. Work to install the equipment started in August last year and was completed in five months.

"Guests can now have access to the Internet anywhere within the hotel," he said, adding that the fee was RM10 per hour.

On the occupancy rate, Cheng said Grand Continental hotels nationwide enjoyed an average of 80 per cent occupancy rate last year, up from 60 to 70 per cent in 2006.

"We expect to maintain the current occupancy rate of 80 per cent this year," he said.

nazrey

January 22nd, 2008, 07:50 AM

The Ritz-Carlton Kuala Lumpur celebrates 10 great years of service
Kuala Lumpur, January 21, 2008

The Ritz-Carlton, Kuala Lumpur celebrated its 10th anniversary on January 18, 2008 with an evening of music and splendor. The special evening marked a decade of dedicated hospitality, which has earned the hotel international acclaim.

Prominent corporate personalities and foreign dignitaries who were greeted by a classic New Orleans-inspired ambience graced the evening. The reception room featured a beautiful series of grainy black and white images capturing the evening’s jazz-inspired spirit, and providing an ideal backdrop for a sophisticated welcoming cocktail session.

This was followed by a delectable five-course dinner with a hint of Southern flavour. Guests enjoyed the dinner in the beautifully decorated Banquet Hall located at the Carlton Conference Centre. The décor featured fresh white lilies and over-sized cream-coloured candles with the room exuding refreshing colours; a contrast to the muted cocktail reception area. The contrasting effect symbolising the transition the hotel has made from classic design to a more contemporary style. The past decade has seen The Ritz-Carlton, Kuala Lumpur implement gentle change in both style of service, and the room décor which underwent an enhancement programme a year ago.

Guests were treated to a dazzling performance by the famous New Orleans Garden District Band featuring Julia LaShae, who were flown into Malaysia especially for the function. They serenaded dinner guests with a jazz repertoire that was perfect for the occasion. The band has performed worldwide and played a wide range Classic jazz standards from the 40’s, 50’s & 60’s.

There was also a video presentation of The Ritz-Carlton brand and well wishes by international celebrities who have stayed at this award-winning property such as Al Jarreau, Jackie Chan, Dato' Michelle Yeoh, Pete Sampras and more. Dato' Mark Yeoh, President of YTL Hotels was the host for the evening.

"The Ritz-Carlton Kuala Lumpur has set a great benchmark for YTL Hotels and for KL city and I am truly impressed by the work culture and ETOS (Education, Training and Organisational Services) that this hotel has to offer," said Dato' Mark Yeoh in his speech.

The Ritz-Carlton, Kuala Lumpur truly defines the luxury boutique hotel experience in Asia. The unique boutique concept of the hotel combines uncompromising quality and care with an unparalleled spectrum of enriching experiences for all guests. Strategically located within the vibrant heart of Kuala Lumpur, the hotel is directly connected to the city's most exclusive retail destination, Starhill Gallery, offering guests a wonderful range of world-class shopping and dining opportunities all in one complex.

nazrey

May 2nd, 2008, 07:30 AM

IGB in no hurry to sell Renaissance
By Vasantha Ganesan Published: 2008/05/02
BusinessTimes

The developer hopes to make RM800 million from the sale of the five-star Renaissance Kuala Lumpur and put the investment into new Cititel hotels

PROPERTY developer and hotel owner IGB Corp Bhd is in no hurry to sell the five-star Renaissance Kuala Lumpur, its executive director Tan Boon Lee said.

IGB made public its intention to sell the 910-room property last year.

"The Renaissance is on the market. It is not one of the strategic properties that we want to grow. Renaissance is a non-core asset, so we will look to dispose of it," Tan told Business Times in an interview.

"Every year, the value of the property is going up. It's a matter of time. We are in no hurry to sell," Tan said.

IGB hopes to make RM800 million from the sale of the 12-year-old property. The hotel is held equally by IGB and Hong Kong's New World Development.

"The hotel is yielding, but not as high as (our) Cititel hotels. We want to unlock the value of the property and put (the investment) into new Cititel hotels," Tan said.

Both Cititel and Cititel Express cater for the mid-range market segment. The hotels, which typically have 400 rooms and 250 rooms respectively, bring in gross operating profit (GOP) of 60 per cent.

GOP is gross revenue (from rooms, food and beverage, laundry or business centre) minus cost of operations (wages, electricity and amenities).

When asked why it has been difficult to make a deal, Tan said: "There is an eight-year management agreement in place. A lot of buyers these days want to put in their own brand or want to self-manage, (but) we (at RM800 million) are selling below the replacement value."

The net book value of the property as at December 2007 was RM647 million, while its market value quoted by an analyst was RM654 million.

Last October, the hotel's general manager said that the hotel would undergo a US$16.7 million (about RM53 million) facelift this year and next.

The renovation and refurbishment, to be carried out over two phases, would involve the 510-room East Wing, followed by the 400-room West Wing.

The hotel, opened in June 1996, comprises two towers resting on a podium housing a convention centre which can accommodate 1,000 people.

Initially, the property was divided into the four-star New World and the five-star Renaissance hotels.

In 2004, in line with its global strategy to streamline hotel names, the New World brand was dropped and the popular Renaissance adopted.

Renaissance is part of the Marriott International Group hotel chain.

rizalhakim

May 2nd, 2008, 08:03 AM

IGB plans 4 more Cititel Express hotels
By Vasantha Ganesan
Published: 2008/05/02

IGB Corp Bhd has plans to open four Cititel Express hotels between now and 2010, at an estimated cost of RM120 million.

The proposed hotels, costing about RM120,000 per room to build, will be located in Kota Kinabalu, Ipoh, Penang and Kuching.

IGB already operates two Cititel hotels - in Mid Valley City, Kuala Lumpur, and Penang - and a Cititel Express in Jalan Tuanku Abdul Rahman, Kuala Lumpur.

It is not surprising that IGB - which also runs the Boulevard, MiCasa and The Gardens hotel brands - is looking to grow the Cititel name as the hotel chain rakes in gross operating profit (GOP) of 60 per cent.

GOP is gross revenue (from rooms, food and beverage, laundry or business centre) minus cost of operations (wages, electricity and amenities).

"Ideally, we would like to have representation on the Kangaroo route, from London to Australia via Southeast Asia," IGB executive director Tan Boon Lee said in an interview with Business Times.

"We are keen on city centre developments, and our plan is to grow the Cititel brand and St Giles.

"Hotel operations are a strategic pillar for IGB, and will continue to grow," he said, adding that the business will grow at the same pace as its property development and property investment and contribute a third of its profit.

The Cititel/ Cititel Express names are used in Southeast Asia, while the St Giles brand is used in London, the UK. All three brands cater for the mid-range market.

Cititel typically has 400 rooms, while Cititel Express has about 250 rooms.

IGB is also aggressively seeking hotel representation in Sydney and Bangkok, Tan said.

He added that, given the strong GOP, it made better sense to own and manage a hotel rather than just the latter.

Likewise, IGB prefers to build its own hotel than take over an existing one.

The five-star 439-room The Gardens hotel and 170 serviced apartments in Mid Valley City will open this quarter and the third quarter respectively.

Other hotels in the group include the MiCasa All Suite Hotel in Yangon, Myanmar; New World Hotel in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam; and Boulevard Mid Valley.

All the hotels, except that in Yangon, registered net profits last year.

Tan expressed hopes that once the economy in Myanmar bounces back, the hotel there will also report net profits.

rizalhakim

May 2nd, 2008, 08:50 AM

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rizalhakim

May 6th, 2008, 08:21 AM

Tradewinds buys Khazanah's share in hotel unit

TRADEWINDS Corporation Bhd (TCB) has entered into a sale and purchase agreement to buy 25.67 per cent of Tradewinds Hotels and Resorts Sdn Bhd (THRSB) shares and 371.64 million of its irredeemable convertible unsecured loan stocks (ICULS) from Khazanah Nasional Bhd for RM400 million cash.

TCB said the proposed acquisitions represent its continuous effort to focus on and streamline its hotel and property development business.

"The proposed acquisitions will enable TCB to have full control over the future direction of the hotel business," it said in a statement to Bursa yesterday.

The purchase consideration was arrived at based on a willing-buyer willing-seller basis, after taking into consideration the net asset of THRSB of about RM1.12 billion based on an audited account of THRSB as at December 31 2007.

The proposed acquisitions will be funded by way of internally generated funds and bank borrowings, TCB said.

TCB and its respective subsidiaries are directly holding the hotels and resorts assets such as the Hotel Istana in Kuala Lumpur, Crowne Plaza Mutiara in Kuala Lumpur, Hilton Petaling Jaya, Hilton Kuching, Hilton Batang Ai in Sarawak, Mutiara Taman Negara, Mutiara Johore Baru, Meritus Pelangi Beach Resort & Spa in Langkawi as well as the landed assets of the former Mutiara Beach Resort in Penang and the Mutiara Pedu Lake in Kedah which have ceased operations.

The net assets and loss after taxation of THRSB based on the latest audited financial statements for the financial year ended December 2007 are RM1.12 million and RM9.47 million respectively.

Based on the audited accounts of TCB as at end December 2007, the proposed acquisitions would result in TCB realising a one-time net gain of RM135.8 million arising from the negative goodwill or an increase in earnings per TCB shares by 12.27 sen.

By New Straits Times

rizalhakim

May 12th, 2008, 04:46 AM

Parkroyal plans aggressive expansion
By Vasantha Ganesan
Published: 2008/05/11

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PARKROYAL Hotels & Resorts Pte Ltd, a subsidiary of Singapore-listed Hotel Plaza Ltd, is looking to buy, partner or manage more hotels in Malaysia.

It is now in talks to buy a piece of land in Kuala Lumpur and to manage hotels for their owners in the country.

"We have a few interested parties talking to us, including for us to purchase land for a Parkroyal hotel or Parkroyal Serviced Residences in Kuala Lumpur," Parkroyal Group executive director Wee Wei Ling told Business Times during a recent visit from Singapore here.

"There are also hotel (owners) who are asking us if we would like to manage their hotels," she said.

Parkroyal, which operates two hotels in Penang and Kuala Lumpur, is keen on representation in Sabah and Sarawak.

"Our plan is to be more aggressive for Parkroyal to go regional and secure management contracts," Wee said.

"Parkroyal is well known in Australia and New Zealand, but in Malaysia it has been quiet. We were not ready to shout then, but we are now," she added.

Regionally, it wants to expand into Japan, South Korea, China, Bangkok in Thailand and Indonesia.

"We would like to have a few more hotels in Malaysia either to buy, part-own or ideally to manage. We are keen on Sabah and Sarawak, especially Kota Kinabalu and Kuching ... Langkawi is also a possibility," she said.

Last year, its two Malaysian hotels contributed S$41 million (RM96 million) in revenue to the group, up eight per cent from 2006.

Apart from Malaysia, the group has two Parkroyal hotels in Singapore, one in Yangon in Myanmar, a Parkroyal Saigon and a management deal in Chengdu, China.

Positioning itself as a business hotel, Parkroyal will establish its brand in the cities before going into resort development.

However, the group will now expand if it would lead to a compromise in its quality, said Wee.

"We are going for quality rather than quantity. Otherwise (having too many) the product could deteriorate," she said.

Parkroyal's contribution to the group (minus Saigon and China) last year was 38 per cent of the net profit of S$88 million (RM206 million) recorded by Hotel Plaza.

The Parkroyal brand has been in Malaysia since 1989. Hotel Plaza, however, came into the picture in 2002, following the acquisition of both hotels.

Parkroyal Kuala Lumpur has 426 rooms and Parkroyal Penang 330 rooms.

Five other hotels owned by the group but managed by other brands include Sheraton Perth, Crowne Plaza Parramatta and Crowne Plaza Darling Harbour in Australia and Sheraton Suzhou Hotel & Towers, China and Sofitel, Hanoi.

rizalhakim

May 12th, 2008, 04:52 AM

Signforce moving towards IPO
By Sharen Kaur
Published: 2008/05/12

SIGNFORCE Sdn Bhd has embarked on several new moves to build up its profile for an initial public offering (IPO) slated for 2010.

The group, which offers technical advice for the development of new hotels and resorts as well as management expertise, has diversified into the entertainment, food and training business.

Chief operating officer I.Z. Melvin said Signforce is making inroads into India to manage properties in Trivandrum and hopes to sign its first management agreement in the state this year.

"We are also looking at Vietnam and Indonesia to sign some contracts over the next 12 months," Melvin told Business Times in an interview.

Signforce's most significant contract currently involves services for the development of a RM100 million 145-room resort and a RM350 million 320-room city hotel for a client in Doha in the United Arab Emirates.

"We are offering them technical aspects on project cost, design and concept based on star rating and budget," Melvin added.

Signforce signed a 10-year management agreement with the client in March.

The company, established in 1998 and run by three brothers including Melvin, has developed four distinct home-grown brands for hotels and resorts.

They are Rhu (premium resorts), Essence (four- and five-star city business hotels), Moments (high-end limited-service hotels in suburban areas) and Suitestay (high-end serviced apartments).

"We are promoting Essence for the two Doha properties, which will open in 2011," Melvin said.

"The IPO is to raise money for our expansion. However, we need to build the brands first and get new jobs internationally," he said.

Signforce's flagship project is for Promet (Langkawi) Resorts Sdn Bhd, under which it is managing the Tanjung Rhu Resort for 35 years.

The company is also offering technical advice to Alunan Pantai Sdn Bhd, which is using the Rhu brand for its property in Cherating, Pahang.

Alunan Pantai, owned by Tunku Kamil Ikram Tunku Abdullah of the Negri Sembilan royalty, is building the Avilla Rhu Resort.

The RM280 million five-star luxury property on some 9ha comprises 120 villas, 104 serviced apartments and a spa village with 96 apartments.

"We are getting four local and foreign firms to fund the project. They will be investing for a premium of 10 to 15 years," said Melvin, adding that Avilla Rhu will operate by late 2010.

"We have a commitment to hold eight hotels under the Rhu brand. We are getting there," Melvin said.

Its other clients include Felda, for which Signforce provides training and systems for its resorts, and Meda Bhd for its Nusa Rhu Resort.

For the fiscal year ending December 31 2008, Signforce expects to make RM4 million revenue, of which 30 per cent will be its net profit. It made a turnover of RM2.5 million last year.

rizalhakim

May 13th, 2008, 04:42 AM

Luxury hotel set to open soon

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THE Club at The Saujana Kuala Lumpur is set to open in September this year following a year of renovation that is now entering its final construction stage.

The latest luxury hotel in town is set amid tropical setting and offers personalised services.

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The Terrace Studio Suite: Nice room for a good night rest.

Covering 160ha, the hotel is fringed by two 18-hole championship golf courses of The Saujana Golf & Country Club.

It’s 30 minutes away from the city and 35 minutes from the Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA).

It will feature 105 Club rooms and suites, designed by award-winning interior designer Jaya Ibrahim.

Each room is designed in contemporary Asian style with its interiors in muted tones contrasted against dark wooden floors, a style that is evident throughout the hotel.

The other features are private entrance foyer and check-in lounge, bathrooms with sunken terrazzo bathtubs and private lavatories.

There is also a in-house boutique selling local souvenirs, handicraft, and artwork such as sarongs and batik.

Dining outlets are The Lounge and Terrace that offer light snacks all day long and canapés during cocktail hours and also ala carte dishes.

Guests could also use the business facilities available such as compli-mentary use of boardroom, video-conferencing facilities and wireless Internet access, fitness centre and sauna, tennis and squash courts, swimming pool and massage treatments at The Spa.

The hotel offers six types of rooms namely Club Room, Terrace Studio Suite, Superior Suite, Deluxe Suite, Executive Suite, and Spa Suite.

Apart from the usual services that encompass VIP express check-in and check-out, in-room hi-fi and audio-visual entertainment system with DVD, LCD, and iPod docking station, you could also request for a shopping butler service.

The suites are priced between RM2,100++ and RM4,100++ per room, per night.

For details or reservations, call 03–7843 1234 or email: reservations@thesaujana.com.

rizalhakim

May 15th, 2008, 03:44 AM

RM100m retrofit for Shangri-La KL?
By Sharen Kaur
Published: 2008/05/15

SHANGRI-LA Hotels (Malaysia) Bhd (SHMB), a hotel operator and manager controlled by tycoon Robert Kuok, is spending RM100 million this year to retrofit all the guest rooms at Shangri-La Hotel Kuala Lumpur.

Since 2003, more than RM130 million has been invested to uplift the 23-year-old hotel.

"The latest exercise may cost more than RM100 million. The final figures have not been drawn yet," a source told Business Times.

The source said SHMB is also mulling to increase room rates at some properties it owns by more than 10 per cent in uplifting the standards.

SHMB owns and manages hotels and resorts for its partners, totalling eight collectively.

They are Shangri-La Hotel Kuala Lumpur, Rasa Sayang Resort & Spa and Golden Sands Resort, both in Penang, Rasa Ria Resort and Tanjung Aru Resort in Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Putrajaya Shangri-La, Traders Hotel Penang and Traders Hotel Kuala Lumpur.

"SHMB will only increase room rates at the properties it 100 per cent owns," said the source, adding that the group has no intention to increase its property portfolio in the near future.

It is, however, projecting more than 10 per cent growth in revenue this year largely from higher room sales at its Sabah and Penang properties.

For the year ended December 31 2007, SHMB's net profit doubled to RM83.2 million on the back of a RM410.7 million revenue.

Last year, the hotel registered RM163 million in revenue with average occupancy of 70 per cent, a drop from RM175 million in sales and 80 per cent occupancy on average basis.

rizalhakim

May 16th, 2008, 07:25 AM

Shangri-La KL facelift to have impact on group's earnings
By Vasantha Ganesan
Published: 2008/05/16

SHANGRI-La Hotels (Malaysia) Bhd expects its overall performance in the current year ending December 31 2008 to be affected by a facelift at its main revenue contributor, the Shangri-La Hotel Kuala Lumpur.

The hotel last year contributed 39.7 per cent to the group's RM419.73 million revenue and 44 per cent to its RM98.4 million pre-tax profit.

"Overall, the results this year will be down because of (part closure) of Shangri-La KL," managing director Kuok Oon Kwong said. The group made RM77.24 million in net profit last year.

"We are embarking on a major renovation at the Shangri-La KL, on all the rooms, the lobby lounge, swimming pool," Kuok told a press conference after the company's annual general meeting yesterday.

A total of RM108 million has been allocated for the renovation and refurbishment exercise at the 710-room hotel, which will be done in phases.

The upgrade, which began in April 2008, is expected to be completed in February 2009. The last major renovation at the hotel was in 2002.

Once completed, the group plans to refurbish the Golden Sands Resort in Penang in 2009, to help it better compete with other hotels on the island.

Kuok said the Rasa Sayang Resort in Penang, which had a complete makeover, and the addition of 90 rooms to Rasa Ria Resort in Sabah will help cushion some of the impact on its performance.

On whether Shangri-La plans to expand in Malaysia given that other foreign brands like Starwood, Accor and Parkroyal are looking to create a bigger presence in Malaysia, Kuok said: "Not at the moment".

She said that the group is happy with its current portfolio of hotels, which also includes the Traders Hotel in Penang.

Kuok added that should it want to expand, it has land bank in Batu Feringgi Beach, Penang, and 162ha of land in Sabah.

The land is held through 75 per cent owned Pantai Dalit Resort Sdn Bhd, which is also looking at building residential units at a later stage.

Shangri-La Hotels, in its first quarter ended March 31 2008, saw net profit improve by 62.7 per cent to RM25.56 million and revenue grow by 15.8 per cent to RM112.83 million compared to first quarter of 2007.

Meanwhile, Kuok said Shangri-La Asia Ltd plans to take the brand to Europe and North America and expand its current portfolio of some 57 hotels which are predominantly located in Asia-Pacific.

YeahWho

May 16th, 2008, 04:56 PM

rizalhakim

May 21st, 2008, 09:41 AM

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rizalhakim

May 23rd, 2008, 05:56 AM

Hotel chips in for walk

FIRST-time sponsors of Ipoh Starwalk, Marriott Putrajaya Hotel has donated RM5,000 worth of accommodation and dining gift vouchers to the sports event to be held on June 15.

The annual event is organised by The Star and the Ipoh City Council with the co-operation of the Perak Government and Perak Amateur Athletics Association in conjunction with the city’s 20th anniversary.

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Doing our part: Marriot Putrajaya public relations assistant manager Pydia Mae Hendroff presenting the cheque to The Star’s assistant section manager advertisement sales (supplement and bureaus) Timothy Foong at Menara Star.

The walk consists of two categories, namely the non-competition and competition walkers that are divided according to gender and age groups.

Due to the good response from the public, the non-competition walkers’ category has extended its entry form submission deadline to today.

A new flag-off point, the Stadium Indera Mulia, has been chosen this year and while the previous route covered 7km, this year would see participants of both categories walking 10km.

rizalhakim

May 23rd, 2008, 05:56 AM

PanPac KLIA voted best airport hotel for seventh time

THE Pan Pacific Kuala Lumpur International Airport (PanPac KLIA) has made it again as Asia’s best airport hotel for the year 2007.

It is the seventh time the hotel has won this award in its 10-year history from Business Asia magazine.

This award is presented to airport hotels for its high standards in providing a broad spectrum of convenient services and facilities for business travellers.

“Everything about the hotel is designed to meet the unique needs of the business traveller,’’ said PanPac KLIA general manger, Hams Winsnes.

He said the award was special this time as the hotel celebrates its 10th anniversary and had the privilege of sharing a partnership with KLIA which bagged the coveted World’s Best Airport award for the same year.

Established in 1998, the award presented by Business Asia magazine, a publication owned by Sydney-based Media Company First Charlton Communications, encompasses over 95 hotels across 14 Asia Pacific countries in 17 categories.

Nominees for the award were chosen by a team of industry experts with winners established by popular votes through a ballot paper published in the magazine and online at the First Charlton website.

The hotel first won the award in 2000 and followed it with straight wins from 2002-2007.

nazrey

May 24th, 2008, 08:07 AM

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nazrey

May 24th, 2008, 08:08 AM

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nazrey

May 24th, 2008, 08:15 AM

The Ritz-Carlton, Kuala Lumpur ranked as one of world's best hotels on Expedia® Insiders' Select™ List
Kuala Lumpur – May 16, 2008
YTLCommunity

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Expedia® travelers have ranked The Ritz-Carlton, Kuala Lumpur among the world's best hotel on this year's Expedia Insiders' Select™ list. The list formally recognizes individual hotels worldwide that consistently deliver excellent service, a great overall experience and a notable value. The full list represents about one percent of the nearly 80,000 hotel properties offered on Expedia and The Ritz-Carlton is the only hotel in Malaysia mentioned on the list.

“Delivering our guests superior service is a top priority at The Ritz-Carlton, Kuala Lumpur,” said Mr. Stephen Cokkinias, General Manager. “We are pleased that our efforts have been acknowledged by Expedia travelers and look forward to extending our high level of service to even more guests.”

Expedia has collected the insights of more travelers than any other online travel agency in the world. Drawing on Expedia's hundreds of thousands of Traveler Opinions hotel reviews, combined with a value rating and the local market expertise of more than 400 Expedia employees in local markets worldwide, Expedia Insiders' Select™ is an easy-to-browse list that provides travelers with a powerful way to find the perfect hotel using the trusted insight of other travelers like them. The list showcases the diverse selection of travel destinations and hotel properties.

For more information, visit www.expedia.com/insidersselect

The Ritz-Carlton, Kuala Lumpur truly defines the luxury boutique hotel experience in Asia. The unique boutique concept of the hotel combines uncompromising quality and care with an unparalleled spectrum of enriching experiences for all guests. Strategically located within the vibrant heart of Kuala Lumpur, the hotel is directly connected to the city's most exclusive retail destination, Starhill Gallery, offering guests a wonderful range of world-class shopping and dining opportunities all in one complex.

Malaysia’s first luxury boutique hotel, The Ritz-Carlton, Kuala Lumpur features full butler service for all guest rooms and suites. Named “Best Business Hotel” in Malaysia by Business Asia and CNBC, and “Best Business Hotel in Kuala Lumpur” by Travel + Leisure, the Hotel is ranked among the best in the world by Condé Nast Traveler’s Gold List. Services and facilities include Li Yen, an award-winning Cantonese restaurant, The Lobby Lounge serving international and local favorites, a full service Spa Village and fitness centre, 30,000 square feet of meetings and events space, and a business centre all connected to the upscale Starhill Gallery.

rizalhakim

May 26th, 2008, 05:17 AM

Marriott Putrajaya to get RM30m facelift
By Vasantha Ganesan
Published: 2008/05/26

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PUTRAJAYA Marriott Hotel plans to undergo a RM30 million renovation and refurbishment to win a bigger share of the meetings, incentives, conventions and exhibitions (MICE) market.

It is a substantial investment because typically, hotel owners upgrade their hotels every 10 years. Marriott just turned six on May 15 this year.

The one-and-a-half-year upgrade will cater to an anticipated influx of people with the development in Putrajaya as well as the upcoming shopping complex planned to be built next to the hotel, its general manager Yeow Hock Siew said.

Yeow, who has helmed this five-star 488-room hotel for the past four years, said that in the past the hotel was busy trying to fill its rooms.

"Over the past year, we have started to focus on the right segment, the MICE market. We have an area ideal for MICE," Yeow said.

"We have progressed upwards since. For the fiscal year ended June 2007, we had an average occupancy of 40 per cent and an average room rate (ARR) of RM215. In June 2008, (we should finish) at an average occupancy of 58 per cent and an ARR of RM227," he added.

He said that unlike city hotels, Marriott Putrajaya neither has a night entertainment nor a shopping zone, which poses a challenge.

"For this year and next our focus will be on local and international businesses," Yeow said, adding that its target includes the Indian, Chinese and Indonesian market.

To this end, it is adding on a RM15 million ballroom called the Garden Ballroom which is capable of accommodating 300 people for dinners and 600 people for meetings.

This adds to its existing facility which allows for 2,300 guests in a standing cocktail and 1,500 for seating.

Other planned upgrades includes the refurbishment of over 100 over rooms at RM75,000 per room, its restaurants and the inclusion of an exclusive VIP lounge.

Not included in its current budget is the renovation and addition of villas to accommodate a Martha Tilaar Spa.

With all these in place, Yeow expects that by June 2009, its average occupancy will improve to 65 per cent and ARR to touch RM240.

Some 85 per cent of its guests are business travellers while the rest are leisure travellers.

The hotel, built by the IOI group at RM200 million, currently enjoys a gross operating profit of 38 per cent.

rizalhakim

May 27th, 2008, 07:15 AM

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rizalhakim

May 29th, 2008, 07:33 AM

Westin makes a name with heavenly beds
By Vasantha Ganesan
Published: 2008/05/29

Westin is about the guests feeling recharged after staying with the hotel, says its brand director for Asia-Pacific

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TAKE any room in a five-star hotel, scent it with white tea essence, place a heavenly bed and request for the gym or the spa to be in-room - this is the trademark of Westin Hotels & Resorts globally.

In fact, The Heavenly Bed - a brand identity immediately linked to the hotel - is so popular that guests like to take it home. Westin Hotels and Resorts last year sold US$10 million (RM32.4 million) of The Heavenly Beds.

The Heavenly Beds, introduced in 1999, as the name suggests, are said to help guests sleep like they are on the clouds.

"The sale of the beds is an attestation that Westin has evolved into a lifestyle brand," the hotel's brand director for Asia-Pacific, Yeoh Fay-Linn said.

Other lifestyle elements such as the Westin Workout, In-Room Spa and Unwind (a Westin Evening Ritual) are all premised on making guests feel better when they leave than when they arrived at the hotel.

Westin - among the nine hotel brands under Starwood Hotels and Resorts - is in the same league as Sheraton and Le Meridien.

Yeoh said all the hotels have their own personalities. Branding and distinguishing Westin from its hotel peers is similar to finding its own DNA (Deoxyribonucleic acid) profile.

"We are all different (Le Meridien, Sheraton and Westin). We all have a different lifestyle. Le Meridien is about discovering, being creative, while Westin is about personal renewal and Sheraton about connection," she said.

"It is like getting your DNA. We (Westin) are personal, instinctive and it is all about renewal.

"With these core values, we established our brand mission. It is about the guests feeling recharged after staying with us," she added.

The hotel strives to cater to the different travel persona of the guests. It ensures that all Westin hotels have the same look, feel and embraces the Westin initiatives.

"We want to ensure we have elements that guests would always want to come back to," she said.

Westin's history goes back to the 1930s in Washington, the US, when two rival hoteliers decided to join forces. This saw the creation of Western Hotels.

In 1954, the name Western International Hotel was adopted when it added a Canadian property. The name was then abbreviated to Westin during its 50th anniversary celebration.

Typically, a Westin touches on the five senses called the "sensory welcome" which extends to sound, sight, taste and touch apart from the scent.

Westin, most popular in the US, is also well known in Japan, Australia and China. Starwood plans to open six to seven Westin hotels in India over the next few years.

However, Yeoh feels that more work can be done in establishing Westin in Thailand, Singapore and Hong Kong.

On its branding for the two Westin hotels in Malaysia - The Westin Kuala Lumpur and The Westin Langkawi Resort & Spa, Yeoh said that both hotels are leaders of the pack when it comes to five-star city or leisure hotels.

Yeoh hopes to convert more hotel guests to Westin guests and create a lifestyle within the hotel that people can relate to and want to stay in.

rizalhakim

June 3rd, 2008, 07:05 AM

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rizalhakim

June 3rd, 2008, 09:01 AM

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rizalhakim

June 9th, 2008, 04:38 AM

Parkroyal KL set for revenue boost
By Vasantha Ganesan Published: 2008/06/09

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PARKROYAL Kuala Lumpur expects revenue to rise 10 per cent this year to about RM50 million as it adds a club floor and 78 rooms.

The five-star hotel wants to have a bigger share of the meetings business and the move will help fill rooms, garner better average room rate (ARR) and generate more income from food and beverage sales.

In the financial year to December 31 2007, the Singapore-owned and operated hotel chalked up RM45 million revenue, some 61 per cent of which came from its rooms and the rest from its food division.

"We expect revenue to in-crease between RM4.5 million and RM5 million, a good proportion coming from the additional room inventory," its recently appointed general manager Ian McKie told Business Times in an interview.

He added that the hotel's gross operating profit (GOP) is set to improve to RM17.5 million this year from RM13.5 million last year.

Last year, the hotel achieved an ARR of RM245 and an average occupancy of 78 per cent.

This year, the ARR is expected to improve although the average occupancy may fall slightly given the extra rooms. It now has 426 rooms.

"This year, having gone through the first four months, we expect to close the year at 70 per cent average occupancy and an ARR of RM285," McKie said.

The hotel is owned and managed by Parkroyal Hotels & Resorts Pte Ltd, a subsidiary of the Singapore-listed Hotel Plaza Ltd.

While the Parkroyal brand has been in Malaysia since 1989, Hotel Plaza came into the picture only in 2002 after the acquisition of the brand and hotel.

Late last year, Parkroyal Kuala Lumpur completed a RM16 million renovation to add the club floor and convert some of the office units into hotel rooms in the adjoining commercial building, President House.

rizalhakim

June 11th, 2008, 04:17 AM

Holiday Inn Glenmarie expects facelift to boost revenue
By Vasantha Ganesan Published: 2008/06/11

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HOLIDAY Inn Glenmarie Kuala Lumpur projects revenue to rise by a quarter this fiscal year following an RM11.5 million facelift.

The hotel, owned by DRB-HICOM Bhd and operated by the Intercontinental Hotels Group (IHG), expects more corporate guests and a higher average room rate (ARR) of RM230 this year.

"The entire upgrade including the incorporation of wireless service is targeted at our business customers," its recently appointed general manager Anil Pathak said.

Pathak expects the 263-room hotel to take a few months before it fully reaps the results of the nine-month renovation.

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"We will continue our role as a hotel for the corporate market including the meetings, incentives, conventions and exhibitions (MICE) market. The corporate market is big for us, especially for day meetings," Pathak told Business Times in an interview.

Sixty-four per cent of the guests at this four-star hotel comprise business clients. Its corporate clients and the day meetings business make up 60 per cent of sales. The hotel has 11 dedicated meeting rooms which can seat 15 to 500 guests.

"We have a gross operating profit (GOP) of 27 per cent, which is fairly good since we are coming out of a renovation. The way things are going we would definitely be looking at a GOP of 32 per cent in 2009," he said.

The hotel, located in Glenmarie, opened its doors in 1992 as the Pan Pacific Glenmarie. In 2005, IHG took over the management.

Pathak, who described the hotel as "business hotel with a resort feel", wants to leverage the hotel's location next to a golf course, away from the city crowd and yet only minutes away from shopping districts like Subang and the Kuala Lumpur city centre.

"We have the best of both worlds. We have a golf course, we are near enough to the entertainment district of Subang or even Damansara," he said, adding that free shuttle service is available from the hotel to the city centre.

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johnsonooi

June 11th, 2008, 05:02 PM

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This used to be Hilton Hotel rite?

rizalhakim

June 12th, 2008, 06:08 AM

^^ yeap..the old hilton...

travellator

June 12th, 2008, 09:36 AM

Starwood signs St. Regis Hotel in Kuala Lumpur

12 June 2008

Starwood Hotels & Resorts is to introduce its luxury St. Regis brand to Malaysia with the signing of The St. Regis Kuala Lumpur. Owned by ONE IFC Sdn Bhd, the newly constructed property will include 200 guest rooms and 200 whole-ownership St. Regis branded Residences, as well as a luxury Remède spa, gourmet dining and spacious meeting facilities.

The St. Regis Kuala Lumpur is scheduled to open in 2014, and will offer a prime location in KL Sentral, directly opposite the National Museum and Lake Gardens. Spanning 72 acres, KL Sentral is one of the largest commercial developments in Kuala Lumpur today and is regarded by many as the city’s new Central Business District. Guests will appreciate the hotel’s close proximity to the KL Sentral railway hub and major commercial areas including KLCC and Bukit Bintang.

The capital and largest city in Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur is one of the best examples of an Asian city that has managed to preserve the best of its cultural heritage while emerging as one of Asia’s fastest growing centers for trade, commerce, finance, and information technology.

“The sustained demand for luxury accommodations, the legendary bespoke service of the St. Regis brand, and the unrivaled location of this hotel in the KL Sentral area will make St. Regis Kuala Lumpur an extremely attractive choice for travelers to this dynamic capital city,” said Mr. Miguel Ko, President for Starwood Hotels & Resorts, Asia Pacific.

The New York-based architecture firm Skidmore, Owings & Merrill LLP (SOM) has been appointed as the main architect for the ONE IFC development. Founded in 1936, SOM is one of the world's leading architecture, urban design, engineering, and interior architecture firms with a portfolio that features some of the most important architectural accomplishments of the 20th century

rizalhakim

June 16th, 2008, 06:28 AM

Personal touch
BY LUM YI HWA

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Managing a five star hotel is not an easy feat. Jonas A. Schuermann, general manager of Mandarin Oriental will not rest on his laurels yet.

WE choose a secluded corner in the sunny Lounge on the Park to conduct the interview and the lobby is bustling with guests and friendly staff. But if you looked closely enough there are also a few plain clothes policemen and guards loitering around the front door.

“Excuse me, but I might have to stop the interview for a few minutes as the King of Jordan is leaving the hotel soon and I need to send him off,” says Jonas A. Schuermann while looking towards the main doorway. “How often do you get royalty staying in the hotel you’re managing? Of course the interview can wait while you see the King off,” I thought.

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"I like being at the lobby as it is the heart of the hotel where all the action is"- Jonas A. Schuermann.

Growing up in a small village had inspired Schuermann to join the hotel industry. “I started out as a bus boy in a small hotel in 1979 and slowly worked my way up the ranks. I was mainly in the F&B department before managing the hotel as a general manager,” he says. He started out in Hong Kong, then to Beijing, Macau and now Malaysia for the past four years.

Now before anyone could say it’s an easy ride up the ranks, Schuermann will tell you that there is much hard work involved.

“The perception back then when I first started was that the hotel industry is the place to meet people and to travel. It was definitely something I cannot experience while growing up in my village,” he says.

“I have met many people and friends in my 30 odd years in the service industry. It was a pleasant and enjoyable ride,” he added.

“I am glad that my parents were supportive of what I wanted when I first started. They told me to do what I enjoyed doing most. After all, I will be working most of my life anyway so to do something you like will turn work into something enjoyable!”

Just another day at work

When asked what a typical day in the hotel is like, Schuermann is quick to stress that there is no “typical day” in this industry. “In the hotel, everything happens really quickly. A day can go from normal to extraordinary in a second!” he shares.

A normal day in Schuermann’s life begins at about 8 in the morning.

“I get to the hotel and I take a walk around the hotel. I check the log book to see what had happened during the night. Then I also check the list of guest who will be arriving that day. After that I start my meeting.”

Meetings for the day starts with a morning briefing to floor staff. “I also try to meet at least one different executive a day to listen to their problems and come up with solutions for an hour. For example, today I’ll meet up with someone from the finance department and tomorrow it’ll be someone from the HR department. I dedicate the afternoons for paperwork,” he continues.

“I like being at the lobby of the hotel. The lobby is the heart of the hotel and that’s where all the action is. It is where most guests are before checking in and it’s the best place to meet people. You cannot shake hands via email. Being in the service industry, the personal touch is important. Being able to communicate and connect with your guests will leave them with something special to remember during their stay in Mandarin Oriental.”

He also likes working till late because during the day, things tend to happen too fast.

“When you need to put things together or to sit down and think the night is the best time to do it,” he says.

The amount of passion that he exhibit was evident as he didn’t even realise that he works almost 15 hour everyday, six days a week. “When you enjoy what you’re doing, you wouldn’t mind working the long hours,” he says cheerfully.

In case of emergency . .

“The hotel is like a little village. At any one time, there are about five thousand people in the building. Happy and sad occasions are bound to happen,” says Schuermann.

“Many things had happened in my almost 30 years in this industry but the most memorable one has to be the one where a guest went into labour in the hotel (not Mandarin Oriental) and couldn’t be moved to the hospital due to certain complications. She had to give birth in the hotel. The child should be about 11-12 years old this year. The staff at the hotel had quite a celebration after the mother gave birth.”

“We have a fantastic system where all the staff knows what to do in case of emergency. If say a fire happens within the building, whoever on duty will know exactly who to call, how to evacuate guests in the safest way possible. Or say for whatever reasons the newspapers were not delivered for the day. That’s considered an emergency as well. Can you imagine how many angry and irritated guests we have in Mandarin Oriental if the papers are not delivered that day? If that’s the emergency, we might have to go to every newspaper kiosk in town to buy up all the papers or call another hotel for help. It might be something small in that sense, but still it’s an emergency for us,” says Schuermann.

Though not all staff are required to be on call 24/7, there are some key staffs that will have to be accessible at all time. “Someone from the security department and communications department will have to be on call. Other than that, staff on duty would already know what to do. I have so far only called from home a few times through my years working in a hotel. The system is very efficient.”

Now and then

“Many things stayed the same but at the same time, many things also have changed,” says Schuermann when asked about the differences in the industry in the past 30 years.

“The only thing that had stayed the same is that we still have to make our guests happy. Hospitality is all about making your guests feel welcomed. But having said that, the expectations of the guests had changed.

Some time back, a hotel are mainly for travellers who are looking for a place to stay the night. Now its all about lifestyle, security and convenience. You can even experience new things in a hotel!”

“Restaurants have more and more seasonal promotions and rooms are personalised to individual guests to ensure personal touches,” he added.

“In Mandarin Oriental, we ensure that you get the comfort and security of your home.”

Though there is a nice mix of business travellers and tourists, Schuermann confirms that there was an increase in people coming for leisure.

“Another thing that will never change in this industry is that you need a great team to stand by you,” Schuermann stresses.

“The hotel cannot be run by one person. Every single person is like an important cog in the machine. Without that one person, the wheel will not move. I am truly grateful that our team here in Mandarin Oriental went through thick and thin with me.”

MANDARIN Oriental Kuala Lumpur is the proud owner of four ISO and two MS certifications but does that effect you as a guest in the Mandarin Oriental?

The recently awarded ISO 22000:2005 and MS 1480 *– Food Safety Management Systems requires all hazards that may be reasonably expected to occur in the food chain are identified, accessed and controlled as a preventive measure.

This ensures your peace of mind while you enjoy your meal at the Mandarin Oriental.

ISO 9001 – Quality Management provides a systematic approach in managing the organisation’s processes so that they consistently turn out product that satisfies customers’ expectations.

And with the ISO 14001 – Environment Management, environmentalists can rest assured that Mandarin Oriental take extra care in providing an environmentally friendly hotel for guests.

The OHSAS 18001 – Occupational Safety and Health and the MS 1722 – Malaysian Standards in Safety and Health ensures the safety of staff and guests alike.

rizalhakim

June 25th, 2008, 04:40 AM

Accor: 5,000 hotel rooms in Malaysia by 2012
By Vasantha Ganesan Published: 2008/06/25

FRENCH hotel and services group Accor SA plans to operate 5,000 hotel rooms in Malaysia by 2012, including 12 under the three-star Ibis brand.

It is now in talks with 10 parties in Malaysia to expand its existing brands and introduce new mid-market brands like All Seasons.

In Malaysia, the hotel group operates the Sofitel Palm Suite in Johor and the Novotel Hydro Majestic Kuala Lumpur.

The stable of two hotels will expand with the opening of Pullman Putrajaya Lakeside, Novotel 1 Borneo Kota Kinabalu, Mercure Kota Kinabalu and Novotel Kuching.

"We are confident that the Malaysian market is strong and it is getting stronger and infrastructure is strong too. There is also a drive to develop tourism (in Malaysia)," Accor Asia Pacific vice-president for Indonesia, Malaysia and Singapore, Gerard Guillouet, told Business Times on the sidelines of the World of Accor Expo in Jakarta, Indonesia, recently.

The World of Accor brings together the hotel and travel agents, wholesalers, corporate travel bookers, meetings, conference and exhibition specialists and travel industry partner.

"We are looking to open a flagship Sofitel in Kuala Lumpur and one more Pullman in Kuala Lumpur, and we are also in talks to open Ibis," Guillouet said.

"We would like to have 12 Ibis hotels in Malaysia. This is our five-year plan," he said.

Accor also expressed keenness to have three of its brands - Pullman, Novotel and Sofitel - in Langkawi.

On how Accor expects to compete with other hotel operators who are also in talks possibly with the same parties and in the same location, Guillouet said he is confident that Accor has the upper-hand.

"We are the leader in Asia Pacific with the largest number of hotels.

"We are also the most diversified hotel operator in terms of number of brands," he said.

Accor's brand ranges from the budget Formule 1 to the five-star Sofitel brand.

Today, revenue contributions from its hotels in Asia Pacific stand at less than 10 per cent, which provides the hotel group ample opportunity for growth.

rizalhakim

June 25th, 2008, 04:40 AM

Accor eyes 20-70pc stake in Malaysia hotels
Published: 2008/06/25

ACCOR SA is keen to take a 20 to 70 per cent stake in the hotels that it operates in Malaysia.

Accor, which is on a aggressive expansion mode in Asia Pacific including Malaysia, operates brands ranging from the budget Formule 1 to the five-star Sofitel.

"Like our strategy globally, Accor want to be an equity partner, especially in economy (class) hotels, as we want to control the product and be consistent (in our service offerings)," Accor Asia-Pacific vice president for Indonesia, Malaysia and Singapore, Gerard Guillouet, said.

"We are looking at anything between 20 per cent and 70 per cent stake. We have started discussions with several hotel owners," he said.

"We are happy to have investments in flagship hotels like Sofitel, Novotel or Pullman," he added.

Investments in four- and five-star hotels should not exceed 30 per cent, while in budget hotels will be up to 70 per cent.

Accor has sold many of its properties in Europe and is now investing some of those funds in new hotels in other parts of the world.

On the performance of its two existing hotels in Malaysia, namely the Sofitel Palm Suite in Johor and the Novotel Hydro Majestic Kuala Lumpur, Guillouet said revenue is expected to increase by 15 per cent this year against 2007.

Cerulean

June 25th, 2008, 05:06 AM

Maybe Accor can take over the abandoned Duta Grand Hyatt and transform it into their flagship Sofitel/Pullman in Kuala Lumpur.

rizalhakim

June 26th, 2008, 04:21 AM

Hilton to add 300 hotels in Asia
Published: 2008/06/26

NEW YORK: Hilton Hotels Corp wants to add 300 hotels to the 47 it operates in Asia in the next decade in a bid to match its rivals and take advantage of a business and leisure travel boom in India and China, The Wall Street Journal reported yesterday.

The value of those hotels would be in the tens of billions of dollars, Hilton Chief Executive and President Chris Nassetta told the Journal.

Nassetta’s comments come after he said earlier this month that Eastern markets offer good opportunities as weaker consumer spending, troubled airlines and rising gasoline prices threaten to eat into US hoteliers’ domestic businesses. - Reuters

rizalhakim

June 30th, 2008, 03:55 AM

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Piccolo operator plans to set up boutique hotel chain
Published: 2008/06/30

THE owner and operator of the Piccolo Hotel Kuala Lumpur, Absolute Prestige Sdn Bhd, plans to establish a boutique hotel chain in Malaysia.

The proposition is ambitious given that its Piccolo Hotel on Jalan Bukit Bintang is only two months old and the company's maiden foray into the hotel industry.

Nevetheless, realising its goal may not be too far off as Absolute Prestige has already been approached by other property owners who are keen to replicate its hotel model nationwide.

Piccolo Hotel not only showcases marine life and conservation in the hotel, but also strives to be as environmentally-friendly as possible.

"We are talking to parties and looking at the location. These are people who have existing properties that we can take over (and convert to hotels) around the country," Absolute Prestige executive director Suzianna Wong-Svrcula said.

"We want to share the beauty of the marine world and about conservation," she said, indicating that she would like to have a hotel in Kota Kinabalu, Sabah.

Should anything materialise, she expects it to be in 2009/2010.

"We believe we have an exciting product and hope to replicate it," she said.

In 2001, Absolute Prestige paid RM45mil for a 60-year lease on the 13-storey Wisma Peladang to turn it into a boutique hotel.

rizalhakim

June 30th, 2008, 03:56 AM

Piccolo Hotel KL hitting all the right notes
By Vasantha Ganesan Published: 2008/06/30

http://www.btimes.com.my/Current_News/BTIMES/Monday/Nation/ipiccolo.xml/Article/Current_News/BTIMES/Images/btgraph8/picolo30.jpg

PICCOLO Hotel Kuala Lumpur may have set a new benchmark for new four-star hotels in the city centre by filling up half of its available rooms and achieving RM255 in average room rate (ARR) in just a month after its opening.

At the current pace its business is going, the hotel expects to break even within two years.

The hotel, formerly Wisma Peladang, is owned and managed by Absolute Prestige Sdn Bhd, which has taken a 60-year lease on the building beginning 2002. Berjaya Land recently acquired a 51 per cent stake in Absolute Prestige.

The leased structure includes the hotel and a commercial component. An annexe tower comprising 70 rooms will be ready next year. The cost of all the components is RM70 million and RM45 million for the lease.

"We have achieved RM255 in ARR and 50 per cent occupancy based on available rooms. A huge portion are walk-in guests," Absolute Prestige executive director Suzianna Wong-Svrcula told Business Times in an interview.

The hotel opened in mid-April with 60 rooms and was supposed to open the remaining 108 rooms in June.

"In the first year of operations, we are targeting RM250++ (in ARR) and an average occupancy of 50 per cent," Wong-Svrcula said.

"We target to break even in the second year with 70 per cent average occupancy and an ARR of RM280 to RM300 per night," she added.

The projections are achievable, given Piccolo Hotel's strategic location on Bintang Walk and its focus on room operations only. The retail space, spa and restaurants of the building are not operated by the hotel.

The hotel's tagline is "Dive Into Pleasure", based on its theme of marine life.

The carpeting in the hotel carries the anemone design, while the curtains has a shimmer which look like moving water.

Each room displays pictures of the underwater world and photographs are hung on the walls along the corridors, creating the the impression of walking through an art gallery.

This marine-inspired hotel strives to be environmentally friendly and energy efficient.

Hot water is produced through heat exchange generated from the air-conditioners and the hotel's power supply uses high-tension power which helps save up to 28 per cent in rates.

In fact, the hotel has no swimming pool as it considers that a waste of resources.

Whatever is saved on laundry - sheets not changed for those who stay more than one day - is donated to the "Safe Our Seahorses" and "Reef Check Malaysia" programmes.

Piccolo Hotel is also planning to make its working environment as paperless as possible.

rizalhakim

July 1st, 2008, 03:49 AM

Hoteliers feel the pinch
By Sharen Kaur Published: 2008/07/01

Half of the Malaysian Association of Hotels' members suffer RM60 million in revenue loss after the government refrains from holding events in hotels, says its executive director

HOTELIERS have estimated that they lost almost RM100 million in revenue, barely a month since the government limited the number of events in hotels to cut cost.

The Malaysian Association of Hotels (MAH) conducted a survey with its 470 members, asking them how they have been affected after the government directive.

Under a June 9 circular, ministries, government departments and agencies were asked to refrain from holding courses, seminars, workshops and retreats at hotels and resorts.

Events other than international level functions must also be limited and held at existing facilities like the Putrajaya International Convention Centre and within ministries, departments and agencies.

"Half of them said they are immediately affected by the move, having suffered revenue loss of RM60 million collectively since the announcement. This will rise as more agencies are expected to cancel their bookings," MAH executive director Sarjit Singh told Business Times in a telephone interview.

Budget hotels have also estimated revenue losses of RM28 million as of last week.

"We hope they do not cancel bookings made prior to the announcement. Most of the member hotels affected are three- and-four-star players who depend on government events," Sarjit said, adding that cancellations have been made up to September.

MAH will also ask the government to clarify the contents of the circular which may have been misinterpreted by some agencies, resulting in cancellation of hotel bookings.

"Cost-cutting does not mean complete withdrawal of events in hotels. If you read the circular carefully, it states that meetings, seminars and workshops can be carried out in hotels," he said.

MAH was asked to present the survey findings to the Tourism Minister Datuk Seri Azalina Othman yesterday.

"We are hoping for special incentives or rebates for the hoteliers that are within the powers of the government," Sarjit said.

rizalhakim

July 1st, 2008, 04:47 AM

http://a815.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images01/56/l_d2d6e7fc80c0a869fc30024f8ce49096.jpg

rizalhakim

July 1st, 2008, 04:48 AM

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http://a968.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images01/17/l_bf98d1ab1d24827b9c03401aed8954df.jpg

rizalhakim

July 1st, 2008, 05:14 AM

http://a103.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images01/54/l_451e43d3a45c8881bfb1a3a82c9fc086.jpg

rizalhakim

July 1st, 2008, 05:15 AM

the best looking hotel in Golden Triangle

http://a983.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images01/121/l_79e2bfa93d2691b80c951bfb0cd3cc46.jpg

http://a589.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images01/110/l_63859abfd3a53435ab582a77535ee0d4.jpg

rizalhakim

July 1st, 2008, 05:17 AM

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http://a475.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images01/77/l_7442ad9d2858fba64175a223e7986b62.jpg

rizalhakim

July 1st, 2008, 05:24 AM

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londonbased

July 2nd, 2008, 10:38 PM

rizalhakim

July 3rd, 2008, 04:26 AM

hi guys..need help. coming back to KL in late september with budget of £30 to £40 per nite. which is the best hotel within walking distance to KLCC or Bukit Bintang area with that kind of money? any advise on the web booking? many thanksused to stay at radius and allson genesis, but would like abit of change.

30 to 40pound will be rm200 to rm260.... have fun!!!

http://www.kl-hotels.com/hotels/bukit-bintang.htm

http://www.kl-hotels.com/hotels/klcc.htm

walking distance to bukit bintang area within ur budget
1.Novotel Hydro Majestic
2.Alpha Genesis Hotel
3.Bintang Warisan Hotel
4.Corona Inn Kuala Lumpur
5.Hotel Capitol
6.Hotel Nova
7.Melia Kuala Lumpur
8.Piccolo Hotel Kuala Lumpur
9.Swiss Garden Hotel Kuala Lumpur
10.The Coronade Hotel
11.The Federal Kuala Lumpur
12.The Royale Bintang Hotel
13.Bintang Warisan Hotel
14.Federal Hotel
15.Hotel Nova

walking distance to KLCC area within ur budget
1.Concorde Hotel Kuala Lumpur
2.Corus Hotel Kl
3.Crown Princess Kuala Lumpur
4.Holiday Villa Apartment Suites
5.Impiana KLCC Hotel and Spa
6.Micasa All Suite Hotel
7.Novotel Hydro Majestic
8.PNB Darby Park
9.The Nomad Sucasa

no.4,6 & 9, 15 minutes walk to KLCC

u may check other website below

http://www.marimari.com/hotel/malaysia/kl.html
http://allmalaysia.info/news/attraction.asp?id=393&pt=9
https://www.malaysiahotels.cc/

rizalhakim

July 3rd, 2008, 06:25 AM

Hotel pertama bebas rokok - Tiada satu pun bekas habuk rokok di The Gardens Kuala Lumpur

http://www.kosmo.com.my/kosmo/pix/2008/0629/Kosmo/Rencana_Utama/ru_04.1.jpg
SETIAP bilik bukan sahaja dilengkapi televisyen skrin rata dan Internet jalur lebar, malah bebas bekas asap rokok.

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SEKALI pandang, The Gardens Hotel & Residences yang terletak di Mid Valley City, Kuala Lumpur sama seperti hotel lain. Namun tidak ramai yang tahu hotel ini adalah yang pertama di Malaysia dan mungkin di dunia bebas daripada rokok.

Sesuai dengan namanya yang bertemakan alam sekitar, hotel bertaraf lima bintang ini secara rasmi dibuka pada 25 Jun lalu dan bakal membuka dimensi baru suasana udara bersih tanpa pencemaran asap rokok.

Wartawan AMREE AHMAD menemu ramah Pengurus Besar, Jesse Chevrez yang ternyata komited memastikan persekitaran hotel itu tidak dicemari sebarang produk tembakau. Temu bual ini turut dibuat dalam bahasa Malaysia memandangkan Chevrez sudah lama mempelajari bahasa ini.

Kosmo! Ahad: Ceritakan serba sedikit mengenai diri tuan?
CHEVREZ: Kedua-dua ibu bapa saya ialah warga Kanada, namun saya dilahirkan di Singapura lebih 58 tahun lalu. Saya dibesarkan di Australia sebelum mengikuti keluarga menetap di banyak negara Asia.

Saya pernah bekerja di Thailand dan kemudian di Indonesia lebih 10 tahun sebelum datang ke Malaysia sekitar lima tahun lalu. Justeru saya menganggap diri saya juga sebagai warga benua Asia.

Bagaimanapun, saya belum lagi berumah tangga kerana mungkin amat sibuk dengan tugas dan cuma ‘berkahwin’ dengan kerjaya sendiri sehingga tidak sempat pula memikirkan soal pasangan hidup.

http://www.kosmo.com.my/kosmo/pix/2008/0629/Kosmo/Rencana_Utama/ru_04.2.jpg
JESSE CHEVREZ

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Difahamkan hotel ini agak unik kerana ia bebas rokok, apa yang hebatnya tentang idea itu?
Bagi bukan perokok, anda mungkin tidak sedar tetapi hakikatnya jika anda ‘kaki rokok’, barangkali anda perasan di hotel ini tidak ada walau satu pun bekas habuk rokok diletakkan termasuk di dalam tandas.

Inilah kelebihan hotel ini dan kami bukan seperti hotel lain yang ada menyediakan ruangan khas untuk perokok seperti di bahagian restoran. Malah hotel ini direka bentuk khas dari awal memang tidak ‘mesra rokok’.

Jika masih lagi ketagih rokok, anda terpaksa keluar daripada hotel ini dan hisap bebas di seberang jalan sana tetapi tidak di sini. Malah pengawal keselamatan akan sedia mengiringi anda keluar jika didapati cuba merokok.

Bagaimana kalau masih ada tetamu yang berdegil untuk menghisap rokok?
Semasa hotel ini dibuka secara tidak rasmi, memang ada berlaku sedikit kekeliruan terutama di kalangan para pelancong dari negara-negara Asia Timur yang agak terkenal sebagai kuat merokok.

Saya sendiri menegur secara hormat dan bersyukur mereka pada mulanya terkejut, tetapi setelah diterangkan dengan baik, mereka dapat menerima dan memohon maaf. Setiap bilik juga ada makluman kepada setiap pelanggan khasnya perokok tegar.

Jika dikesan ada asap rokok, petugas akan segera datang ke bilik bagi memaklumkan larangan ini dan hasilnya positif, ada pelanggan yang terpaksa menggunakan tisu untuk menyembunyikan asap rokok yang dihisap secara curi-curi.

http://www.kosmo.com.my/kosmo/pix/2008/0629/Kosmo/Rencana_Utama/ru_04.3.jpg
ANDA boleh menikmati keindahan panorama Kuala Lumpur terus dari bilik.

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Macam mana timbul idea mengenai konsep bebas rokok ini?
Saya mendapat ilham hasil daripada pengalaman semasa bertugas di banyak hotel termasuk di luar negara yang kebanyakan direka secara ad-hoc dengan mewujudkan ruang perokok. Ini tidak adil kepada bukan perokok.

Kebetulan kita mempunyai Hari Dunia Tanpa Tembakau yang disambut 31 Mei sejak tahun 1988 lagi ekoran kebimbangan Pertubuhan Kesihatan Sedunia (WHO) mengenai angka maut akibat rokok yang mencecah 5.4 juta nyawa setahun di seluruh dunia.

Ini bermakna seorang mati kerana rokok atau berkaitannya setiap 6.5 saat. Di Malaysia saja, hampir 8,000 orang yang purata belum berusia 50 tahun mati akibat gejala rokok ini.

Adakah anda tidak bimbang kehilangan ramai pelanggan?
Saya tidak fikir begitu malah kajian menunjukkan pelanggan lebih suka suasana bebas rokok daripada terpaksa menghidu produk tembakau itu yang dilepaskan oleh orang lain. Inilah kelebihan sebenar hotel ini.

Bahkan jika terus berdegil, saya akan mengesyorkan mereka berpindah ke hotel rangkaian kami, Cititel yang terletak bersebelahan sahaja dengan kos dan nilai penginapan masih lagi sama serta situasi menang-menang.

Setakat ini belum ada lagi pelanggan yang marah malah saya sendiri menunjukkan teladan yang baik kerana saya memang tidak suka merokok kecuali menghisap cerut kegemaran saya iaitu jenis Monte Christo No. 3. Itu pun selepas seharian saya habis penat bekerja.

Apakah harapan anda dengan konsep unik hotel ini?
Saya harap lebih banyak hotel di bawah rangkaian Cititel yang bakal dibuka kelak iaitu di Pulau Pinang, Ipoh, Kota Kinabalu dan lain-lain yang bebas daripada asap rokok selain dicontohi oleh hotel-hotel lain.

Begitupun saya tidak mengharapkan apa-apa pujian malah saya tidak terfikir disenaraikan dalam Malaysia Book of Records kerana menjadi hotel pertama mempelopori konsep suasana antirokok.

londonbased

July 5th, 2008, 09:01 AM

many thanks mr.rizalhakim with all the hotel info.

rizalhakim

July 8th, 2008, 06:20 AM

Off-peak promotions to boost hotel trade
By CHARLES FERNANDEZ

HOTELS hit by government cost-cutting measures can heave a sigh of relief as Tourism Malaysia plans to concentrate on the off-peak season to help them cope with the losses.

Hoteliers have estimated a loss of RM100mil in revenue barely a month after the government limited the number of events at hotels to cut costs.

Tourism Malaysia director-general Datuk Mirza Mohd Taiyab said since the belt-tightening exercise, more than 450 hotels nationwide had reported that about 2,000 government events had been cancelled.

He said the hotels could cope over the next three months as most of them were fully booked because of tourist arrivals from the Middle East.

“Irrespective of the star rating, most of the hotels are fully booked. However, it is the off-peak season that we should concentrate on,” said Mirza

Mirza was speaking during the launch of the three-day Malaysia International Dive Expo (MIDE) by the president of the Malaysian Sport Diving Association Datuk Mukhriz Mahathir at the Putra World Trade Centre (PWTC).

He said Tourism Ministry was looking at increasing occupancy by offering discounted room rates and promoting affordable holiday and accommodation packages.

The hoteliers had also asked for lower electricity rates and are even prepared to lower their rates so that it would be affordable and they were hoping the government would not impose a blanket ban on events.

“We will propose to the Cabinet to review the ruling to reduce government events at hotels,” Mirza said.

Although cost cutting does not mean complete withdrawal of events in hotels and as pointed out in a circular that meetings, seminars and workshops can be carried out in hotels, there has not been any improvement recently.

Meanwhile, Mukhriz said MIDE was aimed at promoting the Best Diving Destinations in Malaysia and its surrounding waters and the three-day exhibition from July 4 to 6 was all about diving, water sports and travel adventure the country had to offer.

“We are now among the top 10 dive destinations in the world. We have the potential to better our standing if we can aggressively promote the sports, especially among the younger generation,” he said.

Mukhriz added that even the dive masters of the Great Barrier Reef in Australia came to Malaysia to dive during their off days.

The organisers are expecting more than 15,000 visitors to the exhibition where MIDE 2008 is geared to showcase and promote a wide range of international brands and products, technical developments, training programmes and market opportunities in the diving industry.

rizalhakim

July 15th, 2008, 05:26 AM

Hotels may lay off workers

MANY three and four-star hotels may retrench their workers from as early as next month to reduce their operation cost following the Federal Government’s decision to reduce its number of functions at the hotels.

Malaysia Association of Hotels (MHA) board of directors member N. Subramaniam said the hotels which depended on government seminars, workshops and meetings for business were thinking of retrenchment.

“Suddenly, there are dozens of cancellations from government departments and agencies.

“The problem is that the bookings cancelled were those made prior to the government’s austerity drive,” he said in Kota Baru on Wednesday.

Subramaniam said the losses amounted to some RM100mil, with hotels in Kelantan incurring losses of around RM3mil till the end of this year.

He also said others including caterers, food suppliers and those involved in the events management sector were also affected by the government’s decision to reduce the number of meetings, workshops and seminars at hotels.

“We support the government’s drive but sudden cancellations are badly affecting us,” he said, adding that hotels might consider imposing fees for such last-minute cancellations.

forrestcat

July 15th, 2008, 08:11 AM

My mum,who works for semi-government university University of Kuala Lumpur also says her department's budget for an annual seminar(where staff get together at hotel for motivational seminars) have also been cut drastically that her depearment can only afford port dickson :lol:.The last seminar they had was in Langkawi.

rizalhakim

July 22nd, 2008, 05:17 AM

Hotel sells mooncakes in aid of autistic children
By CHRISTINA LOW

THE Mid Autumn Festival isn’t just about savouring the array of mooncakes as Pearl International Hotel Kuala Lumpur feels it is also a chance to help the poor.

This time around the hotel chose to help the Hua Ming Autism Society in its ongoing Live to Love – Make a Difference project by selling mooncakes.

“We wish to make this festive moment even more meaningful by reviving the history of mooncakes.

“As we all know mooncakes were once used as a medium to convey messages during the Ming Dynasty and we, too, hope to be able to send the message of caring and love around for families, friends and children at the Hua Ming Autism Society,” said the hotel’s business development and finance vice-president, Datin Chiann Tan.

http://thestar.com.my/archives/2008/7/22/central/m_p22jimmy.jpg
Doing our part: Tan (centre), together with Six Happiness Restaurant director Terrenz Cheah (left) and Hua Ming Autism Society president Jimmy Loong showing the mooncake boxes.

Tan added that the hotel, together with Six Happiness Restaurant, would be working together for the project in which part of the sale of mooncakes would be channelled to the society.

The public can place orders for 19 types of mooncakes at the hotel or at the society’s office in Subang Jaya.

Besides the usual flavours like Lotus Paste mooncake, Shanghai mooncake, Red Bean mooncake and Pandan Lotus Paste mooncake, the restaurant also introduced new flavours for weight watchers such as the Osmanthus Lotus mooncake, Low Sugar White Lotus Paste, Angelica Lotus with Chicken Beads and the Assorted Fruits and Nuts mooncake.

“We also hope to build the awareness of autistic children through this campaign as well.

“With the funds raised we hope it will lighten the financial burden of the families and help in the development of the children,” said Tan. The charity project will end on Sept 14. For details call 03-7983 1111 ext 8402 / 8721

rizalhakim

July 22nd, 2008, 05:19 AM

Eastin Hotel celebrates 10th anniversary with wine matching dinner

IT was a night of good food and fine wine in celebration of Eastin Hotel’s 10th anniversary recently as Eyuzu Japanese Cuisine came alive with the “Roma Con Nippon” Wine Matching Dinner. The event featured a Japanese-Italian fusion menu, complemented by four wines from the Gianni Gagliardo winery of Italy.

Each course on the night’s menu was paired with a particular wine from the selection, carefully coordinated by Eastin’s Food & Beverage experts.

The evening’s programme began with cocktails at The Cigar Divan. The hors d’oeuvres featured were Japanese and Italian Anti Pasti, which was paired with Gianni Gagliardo’s Villa M.

The evening’s dinner then began at Eyuzu, which was set up for the evening’s theme of white, red and green, representing the colours of the Italian and Japanese flags.

The first two courses, which were the Sashimi To Kani Miso Tofu and the Hotate Motoyaki (Gratinated Scallop with Citrus Sauce), were paired with the Fallegro Favorita wine.

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Time to indulge: Some of the invited guest for Eastin Hotel's 10th anniversary bash.

The Sautéed Spaghetti Al Pesto with Roasted Duck Breast was paired with the Dolcetto d’Alba.

Guests were then presented with the main course, Grilled Beef Tenderloin with Shitake Steak Sauce, which was paired with the La Matta Barbera d’Alba.

For dessert, guests were treated to Borsalino Chocolate Walnut Mousse Cake.

Also present at the evening’s affair was Renaud Bancilhon, a wine expert who enlightened guests with a brief description of the featured wines.

To liven things up throughout the course of the evening, a few sessions of a pop-quiz was conducted by Eastin’s executive assistant manager, Peter Padman, who quizzed guests’ knowledge of the featured wines and the hotel.

Winners were presented with gift vouchers from the hotel and prizes sponsored by Milawa Wines Sdn Bhd.

Eyuzu Japanese Cuisine recently won Hospitality Asia’s Platinum Award for Best Japanese Cuisine Restaurant in 2007 / 2008. In addition, the hotel’s head Japanese chef Ricky Hui, won the Hospitality Asia Platinum Award for Best Asian Cuisine Chef twice in a row, the first in 2005/2006, followed by the second in 2007/2008.

rizalhakim

July 25th, 2008, 07:46 AM

Luxury hotel to open its doors in September

The Club at The Saujana Kuala Lumpur – will finally open its doors on Sept 1 following an extensive 16-month renovation.

The 105-room boutique resort, which has just been accepted to become a member of The Leading Hotels of the World (LHW), is set to offer five-star service and an array of complimentary amenities.

The boutique resort offers rooms ranging from executive club rooms and terrace studios to spacious, design-focused suites that reflect the perfect combination of modern style and elegance.

Comprised primarily of terrazzo floors, marble and Burmese teak wood, the hotel is unabashedly modern, epitomising contemporary design.

http://thestar.com.my/archives/2008/7/25/central/m_pg53saujana.jpg
Glowing club: Guests having cocktails by the poolside after the tour of The Club at The Saujana that is set to open its doors on Sept 1.

Lavish and spacious bathrooms overlook the gardens that feature terrazzo bathtubs and rainforest showers.

The creative mind behind the total design experience of The Club at The Saujana is award-winning Indonesian interior designer Jaya Ibrahim of Jaya & Associates.

Hotel general manager Herbert Laubichler-Pichler said the renovation had cost about RM6mil and termed the new resort as very Asian inspired with intimate details.

“The Saujana is a 20-year-old hotel with 210 rooms and caters to local corporate and leisure guests. The Club, on the other hand, is like one big house, at club level and club service, which is a different product altogether,” said Herbert when asked if comparisons will be made between the two.

From the 105 rooms, there are 28 superior suites, 28 deluxe suites, three executive suites, one spa suite, 27 executive club rooms, and 18 terrace studios.

The various complimentary services guests can enjoy include personalised check-in/out and con-cierge club services, special welcome drink of the day, all-day coffee and tea and evening cocktails and canapes at The Lounge.

All rooms also include daily buffet breakfast at The Restaurant, complimentary mini-bar and WiFi Internet access in all rooms and public area.

The Restaurant offers all-day dining with an open kitchen concept serving European and Asian delights.

Briefing the guests: Herbert Laubichler-Pichler (left) and Jaya Ibrahi addressing the 150-odd invited guests over dinner of what they can expect when The Club at The Saujana opens.

Herbert said guests at The Club also get access to seven other dining venues at The Saujana itself, which include Senja Italian Restaurant, Kogetsu Japanese Restaurant, Ti-Chen Chinese Restaurant, and also all-day dining at Suria.

Other facilities available are a 39-metre long swimming pool, a fully equipped fitness centre, and two world-class and award-winning golf courses designed by Ronald Fream, as well as tennis and squash courts located near The Saujana Golf & Country Club.

The Club manager Tim Bilfinger, said he was looking forward to managing the resort and showing guests what it had to offer.

About 150 invited guests were taken on a tour around the new resort and rooms, and later treated to a six-course menu degustation dinner created by The Club’s chef de cuisine Christopher Dodds.

The Club at The Saujana, which is locally-owned, is managed by Singapore-based General Hotel Management Limited, which is a luxury hotel management and development company.

For enquiries or reservations, call 03-7843 1234 or email reservations@thesaujana.com

http://www.thesaujanahotel.com

erikko

July 25th, 2008, 09:43 AM

the hotel is nice looking based on your picture above and with it's rates, you'll never go wrong

rizalhakim

July 29th, 2008, 06:00 AM

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rizalhakim

July 30th, 2008, 05:56 AM

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rizalhakim

July 30th, 2008, 09:54 AM

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rizalhakim

August 7th, 2008, 03:27 AM

Far East to expand hotel chain in Malaysia
By Vasantha Ganesan Published: 2008/08/07

http://www.btimes.com.my/Current_News/BTIMES/Thursday/Frontpage/ifareast.xml/Article/Current_News/BTIMES/Images/btgraph9/winnie.jpg

Hong Kong's Far East Consortium International is keen on hotels which have been completed or which are partly completed, says a director

HONG Kong's Far East Consortium International Ltd is keen to invest further in Malaysia and is in talks with four parties to expand its hotel chain here.

The group is looking to purchase existing buildings or those partly completed.

Far East owns and operates the Dorsett Regency in Kuala Lumpur and the Grand Dorsett Labuan.

It also owns the Subang Sheraton and manages the Dorsett Penang.

"We see potential in Kuching and Kota Kinabalu, and are looking at Kuala Lumpur," Far East director of project development Winnie Chiu told Business Times in an interview.

"We prefer to buy. We recently acquired six hotels in China. We are keen on hotels which have been completed or which are partly completed," she said.

Chiu said the brand its potential hotels will carry will depend largely on the location and the product itself.

"We prefer to manage the hotel on our own," she said when asked if it would consider handing over management to another party, like in the case of Sheraton Subang.

Chiu said Far East is keen to continue investing in Malaysia even though the market's contribution to the group is small.

Far East chief executive officer Tan Sri David Chiu, Winnie's father, also owns in his personal capacity property development company Malaysia Land Properties Sdn Bhd.

Far East is confident of Malaysia's tourism industry growing.

"While average room rate (ARR) is one of the lowest in the region, it has had the steepest growth in 2008 compared to the past few years. With China opening up, we also expect huge traffic from China," said Chiu.

When asked if there were plans to take over the Dorsett Penang, Chiu said the group was still deciding.

The Penang hotel is owned by Faber Kompleks Sdn Bhd. Far East had said last year that it would test the market first before considering whether to buy the property.

The group also owns and operates hotels in Hong Kong and China.

rizalhakim

August 11th, 2008, 04:15 AM

Y&Y Property plans 2nd boutique hotel in KL
By Sharen Kaur Published: 2008/08/11

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The developer has bought a six-storey office block near the Masjid Jamek LRT
station on Jalan Tun Perak and will convert it into a Hip hotel next year

Y&Y Property Development Sdn Bhd plans to build its second boutique hotel in Kuala Lumpur as it seeks to take advantage of the growing tourism industry.

It is also a new venture for the company, which mainly builds industrial properties.

“Hotels have good returns and Y&Y has been mulling to build them for a long time.

When it identified strategic locations and older buildings for conversion, it decided to move in,” Mike Hue, Y&Y sales and marketing manager told Business Times in an interview recently.

Y&Y was founded by the Yong family. The company started as a textile manufacturer, trader and garment retailer in the 1980s.

It is now building its first boutique hotel for some RM30 million at Tengkat Tong Shin off Jalan Bukit Bintang. The hotel will be run under the Hip Hotels brand, a popular name in US and Europe.

The eight-and-half-storey building, which will be completed by September, will be open by December. It will have 117 rooms priced from RM88 each per night.

Hue said Y&Y has initiated plans to build a second Hip hotel in the city next year.

The company, he said, had bought an old six-storey office block near the Masjid Jamek light rail transit station on Jalan Tun Perak. It will be converted into a Hip hotel in the second half of 2009.

Apart from the hotel, Y&Y Property is also building its first shopping mall in Cheras, named 1 Shamelin.

This is due to be completed in the middle of 2009.

The company has also earmarked a plot of land it owns opposite the Putra World Trade Centre in Kuala Lumpur for its second mall.

rizalhakim

August 12th, 2008, 08:13 AM

Escape to Haven At the Club at the Saujana

Count Down To the Opening

Twenty days to go to the grand opening of The Club at The Saujana Kuala Lumpur. This most luxurious boutique hotel on the fringe of Kuala Lumpur is the newest hotel managed by the Singapore-based General Hotel Management (GHM) Limited. Nestled amidst 160 hectares of lush tropical gardens and surrounded by two 18-hole championship golf courses, the 105-room resort is a wonderful addition to its sister properties in Malaysia, namely The Datai and The Andaman in Langkawi as well as The Carcosa Seri Negara in Kuala Lumpur.

During the month of August, test weekends will be conducted whereby a selected few are invited to try out and stay at The Club at The Saujana. These test weekends are crucial to fine-tune the services and facilities offered to guests. The team members are rearing to go and with it the excitement to open on 31st of August 2008.

All guests staying at any of the rooms or suites at The Club at The Saujana enjoy a great array of benefits and complimentary amenities. Whether you are staying in the smartly-designed Executive Club Room or the luxurious Executive Club Suite, guests are entitled to a daily breakfast for two at The Restaurant, complimentary mini-bar (replenished daily), WI-FI Internet access, laundry, cocktails and canapés in the evening and all-day tea/coffee at The Lounge. The Club Concierge will be pleased to arrange either a tee-off time at one of the two golf courses at the Saujana Golf and Country Club or a personal shopping butler to escort you into town by private limousine.

To celebrate the opening of The Club at The Saujana, a special opening package called ‘Escape to Haven’ offers a one night stay in an Executive Club room for MYR 540 per person based on double occupancy. In addition to the above room benefits, this package includes a full-body massage spa treatment for two at The Spa and a dinner for two at The Restaurant. Valid from 1st September to 31st October 2008, this opening special is aimed to pamper those who want to relax and take a short break outside the city center’s hustle and bustle. Why not surprise your loved one to celebrate a special occasion? Or purchase a gift certificate for friends, family or a business partner.

nazrey

August 15th, 2008, 03:52 AM

Hotel Imperial the new jewel in Starwood's crown
By Vasantha Ganesan Published: 2008/08/13
BusinessTimes

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HOTEL Imperial Kuala Lumpur is reaping the benefits of a RM50 million renovation and refurbishment exercise that converted it into a Starwood Luxury Collection property.

The hotel registered the highest ever occupancy in its history in July 2008 at 92 per cent, despite an increase in average room rate (ARR).

Hotel Imperial also saw May and June 2008 registering the highest guest satisfaction that it has seen.

"There is a 20 per cent increase in ARR now compared with 2006, which is before our renovation," the hotel's general manager, Sandro Bohrmann said during an interview prior to his moving on to assume his role in London, the UK, recently.

Bohrmann left Malaysia on July 27 and assumed his new position as general manager of Le Meridien Piccadilly, London, and traditional banqueting venue Cafe Royale, London, on July 29. Both these century-old properties are up for an upgrade.

"What a gem it (Hotel Imperial) has turned out to be. It is everything more than I had expected it to be.

"The first three months (after the renovation was completed in December 2007) were very tough. We had to reintroduce (the hotel). The next three months were very successful," Bohrmann, who prefers to refer to the upgrading works as a "recreation", said.

The success of the hotel was helped by the hotel keeping its original spirit and aura while adding glamour, sophistication and luxury.

The hotel is jointly owned by Indonesia's Rajawali group and Starwood Hotels and Resorts. The hotel, reverted to its previous name Hotel Imperial on January 1 from a Sheraton Imperial.

On the issue relating to global companies having travel restrictions and the Malaysian government having fewer events at hotels, Bohrmann said this hotel will not compromise on pricing for the product that it is offering.

"We are about rate positioning that is equal to our product and not about price positioning," he said, adding that while it was willing to negotiate on prices it would not undersell itself.

"Everyone is hunting for business. Price points are certainly affected as the market is very competitive. If we lose occupancy for the sake of rate, so be it," he said.

The Luxury Collection Hotels and Resorts group includes over 65 of the world's finest hotels and resorts in more than 26 countries.

nazrey

August 20th, 2008, 06:02 PM

A food concept fit for a new look
Wednesday August 20, 2008
By YIP YOKE TENG
TheStar

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Premium satay: The lobster satay comes in a delightful presentation.

WITH its recent refurbishment, complete with grand chandeliers and luxurious sofas, it is only fitting that the Lobby Lounge at Shangri-La Hotel serves food that is as exquisite as its ambience.

As such, the outlet is introducing “The Luxury of Eight” to complement its new look. These are sets of eight dainty dishes served on a specially-designed showpiece with mirrors on all its facets to reflect the exquisite appearance of the food.

As the name suggests, these little delicacies are set to treat diners not just to fine flavours but also a touch of luxury, as they are all made with premium ingredients.

Completing the experience are the soothing view of a lush tropical garden afforded by the lounge’s floor-to-ceiling glass panels, the gentle glow of six-tier giant crystal chandeliers hand-crafted and imported from Europe, as well as the soft touch of the hand-turfed carpet underfoot.

Designed by the internationally acclaimed interior designers Wilson & Associates, the lounge, which is dominated by gold, ochre and green hues, is complemented with an elevated bar as well as the staff members’ unique modernistic uniform design*ed by famed Filipino couturier Raymond Joseph Laurel.

For breakfast, the new food concept is interpreted in continental and Asian styles. The former features home-smoked salmon on cream cheese bagel as well as mushroom and spinach Frittata, while the latter appeals with dim sum and nasi lemak.

The lunch sets, too, come in continental and Asian styles. Fine de Claires Oyster, Wagyu Beef Carpaccio with Saffron Aioli, and Tataki Salmon Rolls with Caviar Cream are some of the temptations from the continental menu, while Scallops with XO Sauce, White Jade Dumpling with Crab Roe and Miso-glazed Chilean Sea Bass are among the Asian offerings.

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Dainty bread: Men Teo bread with Peking duck, spring onions
and plum sauce is presented for lunch. It is an a la carte item.

“The sets are put together by the cold, hot and pastry kitchens,” executive sous chef Beh Chew Tai said, adding that the items were finalised after almost two months of preparation.

“The dishes are specially designed for this new concept as we want diners to have a new experience. You can easily see the creative touches in these dishes, especially the innovative pairings of ingredients and their unique presentations.

“Also, they are all made of premium ingredients, so savouring them is an indulgence,” he added.

To make an ordinary afternoon memorable, there is the Afternoon Tea set that brings together goodies such as truffle, salmon, lobster, goose liver and wagyu beef, incorporated into bagels, puffs and tarts.

Nevertheless, those who still long for the classical affair can opt for the set served on a three-tiered tray that offers traditional tea-time treats of home-baked scones, French pastries and finger sandwiches.

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Novel food concept: The Luxury of Eight is
served on a speciallydesigned showpiece.

The Luxury of Eight for dinner is defined by canapes. It offers flavours from different parts of the world, from Tikka-smoked salmon on Parmesan chip and black truffle Brie on crostini to goose liver on toasted brioche, oyster shooter with sake and Vietnamese rice paper roll with wagyu beef.

These go with the a la carte specialities featuring French Fine de Claires oyster, Australian rock oysters, oscietra caviar and satay, available in a choice of lobster, wagyu beef and lamb.

Dessert, of course, is not forgotten, with a collection of eight delicate delights that will make for a memorable finale.

LOBBY LOUNGE, Shangri-La Hotel Kuala Lumpur, 11, Jalan Sultan Ismail, Kuala Lumpur (Tel: 03-2074 3901). The Luxury of Eight is available from 9am to midnight daily.

rizalhakim

August 22nd, 2008, 05:19 AM

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rizalhakim

August 22nd, 2008, 05:31 AM

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nazrey

August 24th, 2008, 04:03 AM

by Jeff JS

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nazrey

August 24th, 2008, 07:57 PM

One World to offer better service to win guests
By Vasantha Ganesan Published: 2008/08/25
BusinessTimes

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ONE World Hotel, which turned one last month, plans to improve service while managing costs better to achieve its RM60 million revenue target this fiscal year.

Higher petrol price and airfares have been hurting the travel industry, and Malaysia expects its economy to grow at a slower pace this year.

The hotel in Bandar Utama, Petaling Jaya, projects equal revenue contributions from rooms and its food and beverage division.

"In the first half, we achieved gross operating profit (GOP) of 32 per cent, average room rate (ARR) of RM325 and average occupancy of 54 per cent," One World Hotel general manager Ho Hoy Sum said.

"Our budget for 2008 is to achieve RM60 million total revenue. For the full year, we expect an ARR of RM328 and occupancy of 56 per cent," Ho told Business Times in an interview.

The hotel, owned and operated by property developer See Hoy Chan Holdings, posted RM26 million revenue in the first six months ended December 31 2007.

"Our strategy is to value-add and not drop rates. We will do this by offering free rooms for day use, free corkage for dinner, free room upgrade, and complimentary food and beverage during break-up sessions (meetings)."

The hotel will also contain costs by reducing wastage and improving productivity and efficiency.

About 85 per cent of One World Hotel's guests is the business crowd. The rest, mostly Singaporeans, make up the leisure portion.

The corporate guests are predominantly from Australia, Singapore, Indonesia and the Philippines.

When the hotel opened a year ago, its major challenge was to sign up corporate accounts as it was a new hotel that was not linked to any large chains and, moreover, was located in a suburban area.

Today, it has signed up more than 30 multinational corporations.

Ho is optimistic that occupancy will improve by 15 per cent and ARR by another five per cent next year.

rizalhakim

August 27th, 2008, 07:10 AM

Bufet Ramadan Adat Perpatih di Hotel The Royale Bintang

SEREMBAN 26 Ogos - Sebaik tibanya bulan Ramadan, pelbagai promosi telah dibuat pihak hotel dan resort di negeri ini dalam memperkenalkan hidangan berbuka puasa mengikut menu dan resipi tempatan.

Justeru, Hotel The Royale Bintang di sini juga tidak mahu ketinggalan untuk bersama-sama memeriahkan bulan Ramadan dengan menawarkan Bufet Ramadan berjuadah tradisional resipi Adat Perpatih.

Penolong Pengurus restoran hotel berkenaan, Azuan Azlan, berkata, pengunjung boleh memilih lebih 100 juadah berbuka puasa yang disediakan mereka.

''Kami menyediakan kelainan dalam hidangan juadan termasuklah udang galah Seri Menanti, ayam rendang Minang, ikan semilang berlada, ketam masak lengkuas, daging salai mangga muda, kambing bagar Jawa, ayam paprik ala negeri dan gulai kawah," katanya selepas memperkenalkan bufet berkenaan kepada pemberita di sini hari ini.

Menurutnya, pengunjung juga boleh merasai pencuci mulut menyelerakan seperti pengat durian, bubur pulut hitam dan bubur jagung bersago.

Jelas Azuan, walaupun keutamaan diberikan kepada masakan Negeri Sembilan, pihak hotel juga menyediakan masakan Barat dan Cina sebagai juadah sampingan dalam usaha mempelbagaikan hidangan mengikut selera pengunjung.

''Harga yang ditawarkan cuma RM58 untuk dewasa dan RM38 bagi kanak-kanak yang berusia antara 4 hingga 12 tahun.

''Pengunjung yang berbuka puasa di hotel ini turut berpeluang menyaksikan persembahan kumpulan Ghazal sepanjang bulan Ramadan ini. Kita juga menyediakan tempat solat kepada orang ramai," katanya.

Lebih unik lagi, kata Azuan pihak hotel ini juga menyediakan juadah bersahur dengan bayaran minima iaitu RM25 bagi dewasa dan RM15 untuk kanak-kanak.

''Ayuh, rasai kenikmatan dan kesegaran masakan dalam juadah berbuka puasa yang kami sediakan," jelasnya.

rizalhakim

September 3rd, 2008, 05:08 AM

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nazrey

September 8th, 2008, 12:00 AM

Ascott may float Malaysian assets
By Sharen Kaur Published: 2008/09/08
BusinessTimes

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Ascott's serviced residences are experiencing strong performance and as such are suitable to be injected into its Singapore-listed REIT, says its senior vice president of operations

THE Ascott Group, the hospitality arm of CapitaLand Ltd, may float its assets in Malaysia into Ascott Residence Trust (ART), a real estate investment trust (REIT) listed in Singapore.

It currently owns and/or manages three serviced residences in Malaysia - Ascott Kuala Lumpur; Somerset Seri Bukit Ceylon, Kuala Lumpur; and Somerset Gateway, Kuching, Sarawak.

By end-2010, it will manage and own Somerset Ampang, which is being built for RM112.5 million.

Under its corporate leasing division, it manages 68 apartment units in two properties - Seri Bukit Ceylon Residence, Kuala Lumpur and Marc Service Suites, Kuala Lumpur.

It will manage 151 units of Tiffini by i-Zen in Mont' Kiara, Kuala Lumpur, developed by Ireka Group and due for completion by the first half of 2010.

Ascott International Management (2001) Pte Ltd senior vice president (operations) Alfred Ong said it is experiencing strong and stable performance at the properties.

"They have been performing well with occupancy of 80 to 90 per cent over the last two years and are suitable to be injected into the trust," Ong told Business Times in Singapore recently.

Launched in 2006, ART has a combined portfolio of S$1.5 billion (RM3.6 billion) as at June 30, 2008, comprising 37 serviced residences and rental housing properties across seven countries.

It is the first Pan-Asian serviced residence REIT set up to invest primarily in income-producing real estate like serviced residences and rental housing.

Ong said the group is on constant look-out for more opportunities in Malaysia to grow its presence.

"Our business in Malaysia is strong. Our occupancy and rates for our properties are above market, which gives us reasons to want to size up the locations and the properties," he said.

Ong said the group, which has invested RM193.7 million in Malaysia since 1998, is keen to explore potential in Penang, in Johor's Iskandar Region and in Petaling Jaya, Selangor.

"We are looking for more management contracts to manage residences for owners. We are negotiating for a few contracts in Kuala Lumpur and hope to seal a deal or two by the end of this year," he said.

Ong said the group is also looking for equity participation, which may involve land acquisition. It will work with local joint ventures or farm out building projects, he added.

rizalhakim

September 10th, 2008, 05:36 AM

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Piccolo stands tall in Bintang Walk

Email us your feedback at fd@bizedge.com

Mention Piccolo Mondo and one might think of pasta, tiramisu and everything Italian. There are three restaurants under Piccolo Mondo Gastro Sdn Bhd (Piccolo Mondo) which are located in Mid Valley Megamall, Sungei Wang Plaza and Jalan Bukit Bintang. Now the Piccolo brand, through related company Absolute Prestige Sdn Bhd (AP), has ventured into property via its marine-inspired theme boutique hotel — Piccolo Hotel.
Standing at the heart of the Golden Triangle Bintang Walk, between KL Plaza and Lot 10 Shopping Centre, is the refurbished Wisma Peladang, which houses Piccolo Hotel. The boutique hotel has been open since May this year and is the latest attraction in the area, competing with the "big boys" such as The Westin Hotel, JW Marriott and Parkroyal Kuala Lumpur. Situated within short walking distance to exclusive shopping centres — Pavilion KL, Starhill Gallery and Lot 10 — it is set to draw both local and international guests.
Wisma Peladang, with a gross floor area of more than 130,000 sq ft, previously housed office units and three floors of shopping outlets.It is owned by the National Farmers Association. It was previously on a long-term lease to Petronas Carigali Sdn Bhd until the company relocated to Petronas Twin Towers in 1997.
Piccolo Mondo's owner-operator Suzianna Wong, who is also Absolute Prestige's director, tells City & Country that Absolute Prestige had in 2001 signed a 60-year lease on the 13-storey Wisma Peladang. "When the owner (National Farmers Association) approached us in 2000 to take up a long-term lease on the building, i thought it might be a good idea to set up a budget hotel. If an opportunity falls on your lap, you have to grab it," she says. Little did she know that it would take her five years to achieve this goal. She says it was difficult to obtain a bank loan to refurbish the building. Although the lease began in 2001, renovations could only start in October 2006. Wong says the face-lift cost RM70 million, which includes an additional nine-floors to the existing three level carpark annexe. The construction of the additional nine-floors are expected to commence in two months.
The three floors of shopping space known as Piccolo Galleria were previously leased to numerous retail outlets, including the two restaurants, main-anchor Piccolo Mondo and Grappa. The Piccolo Mondo restaurant has since been renamed Ristorante L'Opera.
Today, Wong wears two hats — 100% owner of the family-owned Piccolo Mondo restaurants and 20% shareholder of Absolute Prestige, which owns the rights to the building that houses Piccolo Hotel. Berjaya Group, through Sinar Merdu Sdn Bhd, holds a 51% stake in the company, while bumiputera investors hold the rest.

Piccolo Hotel
Piccolo Hotel has 13 floors — 10 floors for rooms and three for retail space, which has been rented out to a spa, two restaurants and soon-to-open wellness centre. The rental ranges from RM8 to RM25 psf. The two restaurants are on the ground floor — Ristorante L'Opera and Clique Bar, owned by Piccolo Mondo Gastro. There are 239 rooms, of which 168 are available to guests, with the rest expected to be ready in 17 months. The additional 71 rooms would be housed in the annexe to the car park.
Rooms — deluxe, studio, family deluxe and Piccolo suite — range from 258 to 854 sq ft. Facilities include a 32-inch LCD television, 24-hour Internet access and IP phones (a technology that allows telephone calls to be made over an Internet protocol network, such as the Internet). The room rates range from RM500 to RM2,000 per night.
According to Wong, the boutique hotel has a marine-inspired theme. This may conjure up an "under the sea" environment coloured in ocean blue. But this was not the case when City & Country went for a tour of the hotel recently. The hotel has natural beige as its primary colour.
The marine theme is meant to be subtle as guests are supposed to "feel" the ambience of the place, says Wong. Various environment friendly and energy-saving methods are used, such as special key cards for room access and power supply, as well as tie-ups with non-governmental organisations to support NGO programmes. But the man behind the idea is her German husband Dr Kurt Svrcula, who is a regular speaker on issues on marine tourism and conservation, He is also a director of Absolute Prestige and has written two books on diving in Malaysia. He cites Pulau Layang-Layang as his favourite island in Malaysia.
"At first, we thought of setting up a budget hotel, but my husband is passionate about marine conservation. He goes diving as often as he can, and so we decided on a marine-inspired boutique hotel. All the photographs of marine life you see in the hotel are taken by my husband from his diving trips," she explains.
According to National Property Information Centre (NAPIC) Leisure Property Stock Report 1Q2008, there are 222 hotels (all categories) in Kuala Lumpur with a total of 29,911 rooms. The average occupancy for the hotels in 1Q2008 stands at 67%. So how has the response been like for Piccolo Hotel?
Wong says weekends are busy, with an occupancy rate of up to 85%. Most of the guests are from the Middle East and Europe. The official launch of the hotel has yet to be fixed. "Let us nurture our baby first until it can walk," she adds.
What is the Piccolo Hotel marketing strategy?
"We prefer to let the product speak for itself. For now, it's mainly by word of mouth and walk-in guests. We have been receiving quite a number of walk-in guests," she says. Other guests are through online bookings and tour agents.
Perhaps the main attraction of this boutique hotel is the location. It is within walking distance to all the exclusive shopping centres in the Golden Triangle.
How did the Piccolo brand begin?
It all started when Wong and Svrcula were on a holiday in London in 1985. "We were having dinner at Chicago Pizza Pie Factory and I simply loved it. I told my husband that it would be great to open a franchise in Malaysia," she says. Wong was a senior general manager of Berjaya Group, where she worked for 13 years overlooking the corporate operations of more than 20 companies.
"I have always wanted to do something for myself, something exciting and challenging. So, I decided to write in to get the franchise for the restaurant," she says. Through sheer determination and a little bit of luck, Wong contacted Chicago Pizza Pie Factory in 1993, and managed to obtain the franchise to open an outlet in SS2, Petaling Jaya, two years later. She says it was difficult trying to seek and convince investors to top up what little capital they had then. After one year of operation, Tai Thong Group (about to be listed then) approached them for a takeover and Wong agreed to cash out. (The restaurant has since ceased operation.)
Sibu-born Wong says it was a start of a love affair with the food and beverage industry. She and her husband decided to venture into Italian cuisine. "We felt there was interest in good Italian cuisine in the city and opened our first Piccolo Mondo restaurant in Plaza Damansara, Damansara Heights, in 1996," she explains. Subsequently, its flagship outlet, Piccolo Galleria, opened in Bukit Bintang in 1999. Today, Piccolo Mondo operates three restaurants.
Piccolo Mondo means "little world" in Italian, and according to Wong, "Italian food is universally loved and having people come together to appreciate the food will make it a small (little) world".
Different people have different methods of relaxation, she says. Some would take a trip to an island for a short getaway, while some would go to spas. But what does this mother of two do for relaxation? "Believe it or not, I love working! Working relaxes me and on Sundays, I usually enjoy a nice lunch with my family." In fact, says Svrcula, Wong went back to work one month after giving birth to their first son and two weeks after the delivery of their second son.
Wong was diagnosed with brain tumour four years ago. Even that did not keep her away from the office. "The tumour was discovered in August 2003 during a checkup, as I kept having fainting spells. The surgery took seven hours. One week later, I went back to work," she says matter-of-factly.

Future
Wong is looking to set up more restaurants within the Klang Valley. She says it is possible to have a chain of Piccolo Hotels in the future, perhaps in Sabah and Vietnam. According to Wong, Sabah is strong in tourism, especially eco-tourism, and since Piccolo Hotel is marine conservation-inclined and Sabah is short of hotel rooms, it would be a good business proposition. "We are always looking for the right location," she adds.
Wong says managing a restaurant is more difficult than a hotel. "Although they are both related to the hospitality industry, a restaurant also encompasses service and product. It is all about product quality, competitiveness, system and control. We are happy our boutique hotel dream has been realised," she says.

rizalhakim

September 11th, 2008, 11:15 AM

Best Business Hotels, Asia
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ASIA
2008 Rank 2007 Rank
1. The Peninsula Hong Kong 2
2. Mandarin Oriental, Hong Kong 5
3. The Fullerton Hotel Singapore 3
4. Island Shangri-La Hong Kong 1
5. The Ritz-Carlton Millenia Singapore 11
6. Grand Hyatt Hong Kong 7
7. InterContinental Hong Kong 6
8. Four Seasons Hotel Hong Kong 6
9. Four Seasons Hotel Singapore 8
9. Conrad Bangkok 4
10. Grand Hyatt Shanghai 9
10. Shangri-La Hotel Singapore -
11. Pudong Shangri-La Shanghai 14
11. Four Seasons Hotel Bangkok -
12. JW Marriott Hotel Hong Kong 10
13. JW Marriott Hotel, Bangkok 15
14. Shangri-La Makati, Manila 14
15. Hilton Kuala Lumpur Hotel 12:bash::bash:
15. Sheraton Grande Sukhumvit, Bangkok 8
16. The Peninsula Manila 17
17. The Westin Chosun, Seoul 13
17. Hotel Imperial, Kuala Lumpur -
18. Mandarin Oriental Kuala Lumpur 20 :banana::banana:
19. The Sukhothai Bangkok 21
19. Mandarin Oriental Tokyo -
20. The Westin Bund Centre Shanghai 25
20. The Grand Formosa Regent Taipei -
21. Park Hyatt Saigon, Ho Chi Minh City 25
21. The Oberoi New Delhi 23
22. Conrad Hong Kong 18
22. The St Regis, Singapore
23. Plaza Athenee Bangkok, A Royal Méridien Hotel, Bangkok 22
23. Sofitel Wanda Beijing -
23. Traders Hotel Kuala Lumpur
24. The Ritz-Carlton Beijing -
24. The Peninsula Tokyo -
24. InterContinental Bangkok 1616
25. Dusit Thani Bangkok -
25. The Taj Mahal Palace & Tower, Mumbai -
25. Hilton Hanoi Opera 21

Given Hong Kong’s financial pre-eminence, and brutal efficiency, it is perhaps not surprising that as many as six of the Top Ten hotels in the Best Business Hotels of Asia poll are from this one city alone. Still, Singapore, Bangkok, Shanghai and even Kuala Lumpur, put up a fight. And, in 2008, dominating business traveller preferences, was a return to classic style, and heritage. Given the large number of potential properties in each hotel category – a potential field of over 800 – voting is considerably split with very tight margins. Several hotels have been common-ranked in the 2008 tabulation as a result.

Pulling away from the general field as the Best Asian Business Hotel is the grand and classic The Peninsula Hong Kong. The hotel ranked second in 2007. This gracious property with its rococo gilt-work lobby and old-world charm – married to a once-controversial tower block that also hosts a popular penthouse bar and restaurant – dominates the central Tsim Sha Tsui waterfront. Being located on the “other” side of Hong Kong harbour has not prevented this fine hotel from forging ahead, and with some excellent views to boot.

The spanking “new” (but reassuringly old-world and well marbled) Mandarin Oriental Hong Kong, back with a spring in its stride after a long refurbishment hiatus, is ranked second. Its dramatic return despite the long closure reflects the loyalty of its “fan” club as well as positive feedback for its remodelled restaurants, new interiors and swish spa. The Mandarin – a longtime Hong Kong favourite – climbed up briskly from fifth spot in 2007.

Ranked a close third – and breaking the Hong Kong monopoly – is the stately and colonial, The Fullerton Hotel Singapore. This grand hotel, a popular venue for posh functions and starched business travellers, held on to its No. 3 position from 2007. A former post office, The Fullerton, with its soaring Doric columns, atrium lobby and splendid dining facilities was ranked fourth in 2006. It is now firmly ensconced in the Top Three and with good reason. This splendid Singapore business hotel breaks the myth that business travellers go for a “standardised” and dull experience. The Fullerton also enjoyed the added distinction of coming in as the best business hotel in Singapore, well outclassing the competition.

Brisk, and well located, the Island Shangri-La Hong Kong secured fourth place. It ranked first in 2006 and 2007. The Island Shangri-La enjoys an excellent location, close to offices, major financial centres, and glitzy if expensive shopping at the Pacific Place mall. It also offers some fine dining venues, some with harbour views, like the classic top-floor restaurant Petrus that also boasts one of the most extensive wine lists in Asia.

One of the fastest climbers in this category is The Ritz-Carlton Millenia Singapore. It leapfrogged six positions from eleventh in 2007 to fifth place in the 2008 poll, reflecting both the growing importance of Singapore as a business hub as well as its own hallmark service. The Ritz-Carlton Millenia Singapore breaks with tradition to offer a futuristic architectural style, breezy, modern, even funky, and littered with art, though it is all served up in its usual understated manner. Rooms offer classical elegance and the spa is a big draw.

In sixth position is the ever-popular Grand Hyatt Hong Kong. It climbed one spot from seventh in 2007. The hotel offers acres of gleaming black marble, fine F&B, great convention space, wraparound harbour views and the Plateau Spa. Its proximity to the Hong Kong Conventions and Exhibition Centre is an added plus. In seventh spot (dropping one notch) is the InterContinental Hong Kong that gazes regally across the harbour in Tsim Sha Tsui. The InterContinental has proved the “other side” can wield business clout too. This Hong Kong business hotel offers an airy lobby with spectacular harbour and island views, smart rooms, a grand presidential suite, and excellent service.

Ranked eighth in Asia is the ultra-modern and minimalist Four Seasons Hotel Hong Kong, joined at the hip to the swank IFC shopping and business towers. The hotel offers HUGE views across the harbour and has a spa to boot. Jointly placed ninth are the Four Seasons Hotel Singapore that offers a boutique, clubby environment close to Orchard Road, and the stylish silk-and-wood Conrad Bangkok that continues to turn pin-striper heads as a business, leisure and conference hotel. The Conrad Bangkok also has the distinction of being ranked as the best business hotel in Bangkok.

And closely following in joint tenth position are the towering, sky-piercing Grand Hyatt Shanghai overlooking the Bund, and the spacious and welcoming garden escape, Shangri-La Hotel Singapore. Others on our Top 25 List have earned this distinction out of a field of well over 800 prime candidates.

rizalhakim

September 11th, 2008, 11:20 AM

Best Leisure Hotels & Resorts, Asia
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ASIA
2008 Rank 2007 Rank
1. Amanpuri, Phuket 1
2. Amandari, Bali 3
3. Sofitel Metropole Hanoi 9
4. The Legian Bali 4
5. Four Seasons Resort Bali at Jimbaran Bay 2
6. Grand Hyatt Bali 6
6. The Oberoi Udaivilas, Udaipur 7
7. Bulgari Resort Bali 13
8. Conrad Maldives, Rangali Island 8
9. Soneva Gili by Six Senses, Maldives 10
9. Amankila, Bali 14
9. Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Landaa Giraavaru -
10. One&Only Royal Mirage, Dubai 19
10. Mandarin Oriental Dhara Dhevi, Chiang Mai -
11. The Datai, Langkawi 5 :bash::bash:
12. Twinpalms Phuket 14
12. El Nido Resort Lagen Island, Palawan 15
13. JW Marriott Phuket Resort & Spa 15
14. Anantara Maldives Resort & Spa -
15. InterContinental Bali Resort -
16. Al Maha Desert Resort & Spa, Dubai 16
17. The Chedi Chiang Mai 20
18. The Oriental Bangkok 12
19. The Imperial New Delhi 25
19. The Nam Hai, Hoi An, Vietnam -
20. The Sukhothai, Bangkok 17
21. Banyan Tree Phuket 19
21. Alila Ubud, Bali 24
22. Le Méridien Angkor, Siem Reap -
23. Neemrana Fort-Palace, Rajasthan 24
23. Shangri-La's Rasa Sayang Resort & Spa, Penang -
24. Raffles Grand Hotel d'Angkor 23
24. Indigo Pearl, Phuket -
25. The Venetian Macao -
25. The Empire Hotel & Country Club, Brunei 12

Perhaps the most romantic and coveted award is that of the Best Leisure Hotel & Resort in Asia, evoking visions of wondrous sun-dappled far pavilions, unblemished service and endless grape-fed pampering on white-sand beaches. Here again, out of a field of over 1,000, options were unlimited but readers narrowed things down, picking a range of resorts in diverse locations as well as a few signature city hotels that made the cut.

Ranked the Best Leisure Hotel/Resort in Asia, is the exquisitely-fashioned wood-and-silk Amanpuri, Phuket, whose Thai-style villas spill luxuriously down a coconut grove to one of the island’s best beaches. Amanpuri was voted in first place in 2007 too. It has held on to this position with the aid of the first ever Aman Spa by Amanresorts, a facility occupying a breezy promontory away from the resort villas to ensure privacy and space. The charming yet understated Amanpuri was aided in this vote by the continued popularity of Phuket as a top holiday getaway.

In second position (up one notch from third in 2007) is the atmospheric and faithfully traditional Amandari, Bali. Perched above Ubud’s Ayung River gorge, the resort’s private villa compounds wander down manicured green acres past a cliff-edge emerald pool towards the sacred waters of the river below. Amandari is authentic, uncluttered and a genuine retreat. Amandari was ranked first by SmartTravelAsia.com readers in 2006.

Not far behind and racing up to third place is an iconic city hotel, the Vietnam grand dame, the Sofitel Metropole Hanoi (ninth in 2007). This is a white, starched, colonial-era hotel with inviting nooks and corners, splendidly positioned right across from the much-photographed Opera House. It is one of those rare hotels that successfully combine business amenities and meetings options with a sense of romance.

Surfing in fourth on the back of the huge Bali wave and lending a contemporary chic feel to the happening Seminyak Beach area is The Legian Bali. This getaway has been popular with honeymooners and romantics, offering sports, spa facilities and a private club. The Legian was ranked 11th in 2006 and fourth in 2007. This is a hip and happening alternative to quieter classical villa retreats.

Ranked the second best Asian resort in 2007 (and 2006) and nudging down modestly to fifth position in 2008 is a huge Bali icon, the Four Seasons Resort Bali at Jimbaran Bay. This is a larger property perched atop a breezy hillside overlooking a long coastal stretch. Four Seasons offers elegant villas, several with private pools, spa treatments and panoramic views.

Sharing sixth spot are the refurbished Grand Hyatt Bali with extended conference and spa facilities, and The Oberoi Udaivilas, Udaipur, in Rajasthan, India. The Grand Hyatt Bali has been a mainstay of family holidays in Bali since its inception, with a battery of swimming pools and vast hectares of landscaped garden. It now sports a fine dedicated spa and extended meetings facilities. Udaivilas, in contrast, represents a classical ideal, soft ochre domes and colonnaded archways that seemingly float above the lake. Udaivilas climbs up one spot from 2007.

Ranked seventh (up from 13th in 2007) is the stylish and hip Bulgari Resort Bali, almost a Lan Kwai Fong by the Sea, to use a Hong Kong metaphor. Ultra chic, yet friendly, modern, yet maintaining a strong classical style, this is an exclusive escape for honeymooners and the smart set. The spa is a big attraction. Ranked eighth is the rebranded Conrad Maldives on Rangali Island. Sited in a breathtaking picture-postcard setting with emerald waters and sugar-white beaches, this large island resort was earlier a new-generation Hilton. It offers stilted over-water villas, a tremendous spa experience, and water sports to suit all tastes.

Sharing joint ninth place are the soothingly elegant Soneva Gili by Six Senses, Maldives (up one position from 10th) with its over-water stilted villas; fellow Indian Ocean rival, Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Landaa Giraavaru; and swish cliffside Amankila Bali (up from 14th place in 2007). And jointly ranked tenth are swish Arabian Nights fantasy One&Only Royal Mirage, Dubai (up from 19th in 2007), and the classic Mandarin Oriental Dhara Dhevi, Chiang Mai. Spa specialist Mandarin is set in rice fields and its architecture mimics the ancient Thai heritage style complete with soaring spires, courtyards and scented trees. Others on our Top 25 List in this category have earned this distinction out of a field of well over 1,000 prime candidates.

The Nam Hai, Hoi An, Vietnam, Le Meridien Angkor, Indigo Pearl, Phuket, and the sprawling The Venetian, Macao, are newcomers to our Top 25 List. Another hotel that found mention but just missed the cut is the stately E & O Hotel, Penang (or Eastern & Oriental Hotel). One reader described it thus: “Not over-the-top luxury, professional yet informal staff, sadly underrated and often overlooked.”

rizalhakim

September 11th, 2008, 11:25 AM

Best Spa Hotels, Asia
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ASIA
2008 Rank 2007 Rank
1. Conrad Maldives, Rangali Island 2
2. The Ritz-Carlton, Bali Resort & Spa 1
3. The Peninsula Bangkok 3
4. Four Seasons Resort Bali At Jimbaran Bay, Bali 4
5. Amanpuri, Aman Spa, Phuket 5
5. Six Senses Hideaway Samui 7
6. Banyan Tree Phuket 7
6. Bulgari Resort Bali 10
7. Soneva Gili by Six Senses, Maldives 5
8. JW Marriott Phuket Resort & Spa 9
9. Mandarin Oriental Dhara Dhevi, Chiang Mai 8
10. Four Seasons Hotel Hong Kong 8
10. Four Seasons Resort Chiang Mai 13
11. Shangri-La's Rasa Sayang Resort & Spa, Penang 11
12. COMO Shambhala Estate at Begawan Giri, Bali 10
13. Pangkor Laut Resort 6 :bash:
14. The Tongsai Bay, Koh Samui 11
15. InterContinental Bali Resort 18
16. The Oriental Bangkok 12
17. Grand Hyatt Erawan, Bangkok -
17. Al Maha Desert Resort & Spa, Dubai 8
18. Le Méridien Khao Lak Beach & Spa Resort 20
19. Sofitel Centara Grand Resort & Villas, Hua Hin 13
19. One&Only Maldives At Reeti Rah -
19. Chiva-Som Resort Hua Hin 20
20. Conrad Bali Resort & Spa, Bali 12
20. Royal Pita Maha, Bali 24
21. Plaza Athénee Bangkok, A Royal Méridien Hotel 17
21. Hotel Tugu Bali 24
22. Ananda in the Himalayas, Rishikesh 21
22. Mandala Spa Boracay -
23. Anantara Golden Triangle Resort & Spa, Chiang Rai 15
24. Conrad Bangkok 10
24. The Landmark Mandarin Oriental, Hong Kong 23
25. Mandarin Oriental Tokyo -

Any modern traveller worth his salt will be unable to string three sentences together without the word “spa resort” tossed in here or there, somewhere, anywhere. Spas have attained a certain cachet, so much so that just about every place with a mug and running water claims to be a spa resort. Not so. The arts are ancient – and specific – even if the delivery is modern and the setting contemporary. On then to our Top 25 List of the Best Asian Spa Resorts.

A clear favourite in the Best Spa Hotel of Asia category, is the rebranded Conrad Maldives, Rangali Island. It was formerly a Hilton and ranked first worldwide in 2006 and second in 2007. It is back up strongly at No.1, straddling two separate islands connected by a walkway. The Spa Retreat offers water villas and treatment rooms. But, for a true-blue marine experience, head five metres below to an exclusive wine cellar and a glassed-in underwater restaurant. The public areas are stylish, fraternal, and informal with sand underfoot. Service is friendly and quick despite the larger number of guests here when the resort gets busy.

The sprawling The Ritz-Carlton Bali Resort & Spa is ranked second (it won the top spot in 2007). This breezy and secluded retreat features its own 22,000sq m hydrotherapy resort within a resort. At the Thermes Marins Bali, amidst the gardens and water-features, are the spa villas and a huge "aquatonic” pool.

The luxurious riverside The Peninsula Bangkok was voted a strong third (the same position it occupied in 2007). The hotel’s spa is a joint development with the spa consultancy ESPA and occupies a characterful three-storey Thai colonial-style building overlooking the river and set at the back of the hotel’s gardens and stepped swimming pools. It has several treatment rooms, including four rooms for couples.

Voted fourth Best Spa Hotel in Asia is the elegant Four Seasons Resort Bali at Jimbaran Bay, sited on a verdant headland with open views along Jimbaran Bay. The Spa at Jimbaran Bay is near the sea and utilises sea-salt crystals, seaweed and natural ingredients. In joint fifth place are the quintessentially Thai Amanpuri, Phuket, and its Aman Spa (the first by Amanresorts), and the Six Senses Hideaway Samui
(formerly known as the Sila Evason Hideaway & Spa), set on a secluded headland to the north of Samui Island with cinemascope views of the sea and brilliant monsoon sunsets.

Ranked joint sixth in the Best Asian Spa Hotels category is veteran spa icon Banyan Tree Phuket – a sprawling compound of pampered luxury in the family-friendly Laguna Phuket enclave. Banyan Tree Phuket was ranked second in 2006 and seventh in 2007). It is the spa getaway that started the rubdown excitement with its stylishly Thai spa villas and authentic treatments, now almost an industry. Golf on the side remains a big draw.

Joint sixth with Banyan Tree Phuket is the new Bulgari Resort Bali, a supremely chilled-out designer getaway with cool touches, elegant black stone underfoot and cosy snuggeries for honeymooners. The Spa at the Bulgari Resort Bali offers an upscale yoga pavilion, relaxation lounge, six treatment rooms and two Royal Pavilions where couples can savour plunge pools, a private garden and stimulating rain showers. In between enjoy views of leggy models strolling the cliffside pool “catwalk”.

Soneva Gili by Six Senses is in seventh (down a couple of notches from No.5 in 2007). The place is engagingly eccentric, close to Malé, the capital island. Rooms here are born of fantasy, self-contained timbered enclaves sprouting from a lagoon. At the top end are the Private Reserves and Crusoe Residences. Some villas require a rowboat to shuttle you around. What could be better than that? Of course, the Six Senses Spa.

These days every place with a mug and running water claims to be a spa, but our readers quickly separated class from crass

Ranked eighth is a longtime Phuket favourite, albeit far to the north of the island on Mai Khao Beach, the JW Marriott Phuket Resort and Spa. This is an all-in-one resort with tremendous kids’ facilities, conferencing, an eco-friendly disposition, and a dedicated spa where treatments can go on for a lifetime. The spa has several treatment suites and offers menus for one or two, including herbal wraps and facials, Thai herbal steam and a selection of baths. The JW placed ninth in 2007 and has gained a position over the year.

Placed ninth is the majestic Thai heritage recreation, the Mandarin Oriental Dhara Dhevi Chiang Mai, an essay in Northern Thai fantasy set amidst lush rice paddy fields with a strong spa suite. And closing out the Top Ten are two members of the Four Seasons family – the Four Seasons Hotel Hong Kong and the Four Seasons Resort Chiang Mai. The Chiang Mai resort gained three positions (it was ranked 13th in 2007), while Four Seasons Hotel Hong Kong dropped two spots from 8th in 2007. The ultra-modern Hong Kong setting offers fabulous harbour views, while Four Seasons Resort Chiang Mai is Lanna Thai architecture at its best, set in verdant countryside in the scenic Mae Rim Valley, north Thailand, with functioning rice fields to the left and right. The spa offers seven treatment suites with outdoor showers and herbal steam rooms.

Others on our Top 25 List in this category have earned this distinction out of a field of well over 1,000 prime candidates.

rizalhakim

September 11th, 2008, 11:27 AM

Best Conference Hotels, Asia
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ASIA
2008 Rank 2007 Rank
1. Grand Hyatt Hong Kong 1
2. The Fullerton Hotel Singapore 3
3. The Ritz-Carlton Millenia Singapore 6
4. Four Seasons Hotel Hong Kong 5
5. Raffles Hotel Singapore 7
6. The Island Shangri-La, Hong Kong 4
7. Conrad Bangkok 2
7. Grand Hyatt Erawan, Bangkok -
8. Sofitel Metropole Hanoi 8
8. Millennium Hilton, Bangkok Hotel -
9. Sheraton Hanoi Hotel 10
10. Pudong Shangri-La, Shanghai 9
10. Dusit Thani Bangkok 11
11. Sheraton Grande Laguna Phuket 14
11. Conrad Hong Kong 10
12. JW Marriott Hotel, Hong Kong 11
13. Shangri-La Hotel Singapore -
13. The Ritz-Carlton Bali -22
14. Four Seasons Hotel Bangkok 13
15. Sheraton Grande Sukhumvit, Bangkok 12
16. JW Marriott Hotel, Bangkok 16
17. The Westin Beijing Financial Street -
18. Mandarin Oriental Kuala Lumpur 19
19. InterContinental Bangkok 16
20. Grand InterContinental Seoul 13
21. The Ritz-Carlton Jakarta -
22. Conrad Tokyo 13
23. The Portman Ritz-Carlton Shanghai 24
24. Grand Formosa Regent, Taipei -
25. Sofitel Wanda Beijing -

The Best Conference Hotels of Asia category was hotly contested with several familiar faces from the “Best Business Hotels” section featuring again, albeit in different guise and altered positions. The first five spots were very closely fought with marginal differences in the vote.

The Best Conference Hotel in Asia, however, without a doubt is the gleaming black-marble Grand Hyatt Hong Kong (ranked first in 2007 and second in 2006). Despite coping with large numbers especially when there’s a conference in the neighbouring Convention Centre, the hotel maintains a brisk manner with courteous staff. It is followed in second spot by the stately and very grand The Fullerton Hotel Singapore (which ranked third in 2007 and fifth in 2006). This is a sprawling colonial-style experience with crisp service and evocative architecture.

The Ritz-Carlton Millenia Singapore is a seemingly unstoppable third (up three spots from sixth in 2007 and eighth in 2006), its upward progression aided in part due to its position close to good conferencing venues and excellent in-house meetings facilities away from the traffic and hubbub of the Orchard Road area. The modern and minimalist Four Seasons Hotel Hong Kong ranks fourth with the Raffles Hotel Singapore coming in fifth (up two places from seventh in 2007). The Raffles is of course a colonial confection worth a visit in any event, conference or not, and is most flatteringly depicted in the late evening when the uplights streak on.

The Island Shangri-La Hong Kong is a strong sixth (but dropping two positions from 2007) with an excellent location for work or pleasure, and seventh spot is jointly shared by the elegant Conrad Bangkok (second in 2007) and the extremely well situated Grand Hyatt Erawan Bangkok. Bangkok features again as a popular choice for conference hotels with the riverside Millennium Hilton Bangkok Hotel placed joint eighth along with the stunning heritage Sofitel Metropole Hanoi (which occupied the same position in 2007).

Still in Vietnam, it’s the Sheraton Hanoi Hotel that ranks ninth in the Best Conference Hotels of Asia category (up one rung from tenth in 2007). Sited on a lake with a resort feel this is a popular conference choice with an away-from-it-all appeal. And in tenth place are the Pudong Shangri-La Shanghai with its vast acres of conferencing and function space, and the refurbished Dusit Thani Bangkok, now even more “centrally” located with an underground metro stop and a BTS SkyTrain station both within a few metres of its doors. The “new” Dusit is all spit and polish with a fresh spring to its stride.

Others on our Top 25 List in this category on the accompanying chart have earned this distinction out of a field of well over 800 prime hotel candidates. The vote is in. Check out these excellent spas, hotels, resorts, cities, airports, and airlines. You never know, you may be in line to experience some award-winning service.

rizalhakim

September 22nd, 2008, 06:43 AM

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rizalhakim

September 22nd, 2008, 07:13 AM

Exciting times ahead for hospitality sector
By ANGIE NG

Market to see additional 5,600 rooms with 4 and 5-star rating

THE Klang Valley hospitality market can look forward to exciting times ahead with more new hotel developments and the entrance of more prestigious hotel players.

Over the next three years, Klang Valley will see an addition of close to 5,600 hotel rooms with four and five-star rating.

Those that will be completed this year include Hotel Grand Mercure Putrajaya Lakeside owned by the French-based Accor Group, Maytower Hotel Service Apartments owned by Mayland Group, Royal Chulan Tower Hotel & Residence owned by Boustead Group and Gardens Hotel and Residences owned by IGB Group.

Among the world-renowned brands that will make their debut are the 240-room Four Seasons Hotel in the KLCC vicinity that is scheduled for completion in 2013, while the St Regis Hotel in KL Sentral, with a minimum of 200 hotel rooms, is scheduled to open for business in 2014.

According to Zerin Properties chief executive officer Previndran Singhe, the entrance of more prestigious hotel players in the local market would act as a magnet to attract other international brands such as InterContinental, Sofitel and The Raffles to Malaysia’s shores.

“There is still good growth opportunities in the local hospitality market, especially for niche players such as luxury heritage hotels in Kuala Lumpur,” Previn told StarBiz.

Knight Frank Ooi and Zaharin Sdn Bhd managing director Eric Ooi said the announcement of the luxury brand, St Regis, had enhanced Malaysia’s regional standing in the five-star hotel category.

“Several five-star hotel players made some exciting announcements in the first half of this year.

“They include the approval for the 450-room Grand Hyatt Hotel at Jalan Pinang, Kuala Lumpur, and the entry of the prestigious St Regis Hotel,” Ooi said.

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Renaissance Kuala Lumpur is being refurbished at a cost of RM153mil.

The 40-storey Grand Hyatt Hotel, to be developed by the Brunei Investment Agency, will house 450 rooms and estimated to cost RM360mil.

Another proposed project is the redevelopment of Bangunan MAS by Permodalan Nasional Bhd (PNB).

PNB acquired Bangunan MAS from Malaysia Airlines Bhd for RM130mil two years ago and intends to redevelop the 35-storey building into a hotel and apartments.

Knight Frank Research, in its latest Real Estate Highlights, said with rising operational cost and tougher economic environment, the local hotel industry was expected to undergo challenging market conditions in the second half of this year.

It noted that the current supply of five-star and five-star hotel rooms in Kuala Lumpur stood at 6,760 and 9,120 respectively, with the bulk of the supply located within the tourist belts in the city such as Jalan Sultan Ismail, Jalan Ampang, Jalan Bukit Bintang and the KLCC locality.

The five-star 438-room One World Hotel in Bandar Utama made its debut in January.

The average occupancy rate for both four-star and five-star hotels in the city during the first six months of this year was 70%, which was 2% higher compared with the same corresponding period in 2007.

Several hotels, including the Impiana KLCC, Berjaya Times Square Hotel and Renaissance Kuala Lumpur, are embarking on refurbishment works.

Impiana KLCC will be adding another 180 rooms to its current 335 rooms while Berjaya Times Square Hotel & Convention Centre’s three-phase refurbishment and redevelopment exercise costing RM20mil is expected to be completed in September
The Renaissance Kuala Lumpur’s RM53mil facelift will be completed next year..

The report said the average room rate (ARR) for five-star hotels during the January to June period was RM370, higher than RM320 recorded for the corresponding period in 2007.

The hotels which recorded ARR above RM300 in the first half of 2008 include Hilton Kuala Lumpur (RM460), JW Marriott (RM390), Mandarin Oriental (RM650) and The Westin (RM450).

The ARR for five-star hotels during the same period was RM200, 10% higher than RM180 recorded last year.

Several hotels that achieved ARR of more than RM200 during the first half of 2008 were Hotel Maya (RM320), Traders Hotel (RM320), Concorde Hotel (RM250) and Boulevard Hotel at Mid Valley (RM220).

Higher tourist arrivals and receipts in the first six months of 2008 have contributed to the strong performance by the hotels.

The full year tourist arrivals for 2008 is expected to reach 22.5 million against 21 million in 2007, while tourist receipts will increase to RM50bil this year from RM45.7bil in 2007.

Meanwhile, the setting up of Pemudah, a special taskforce to reduce red tape in the application of licenses and permits for the setting up of new hotels, in February is expected to give a boost to the local hotel market’s competitiveness in the region.

rizalhakim

October 10th, 2008, 04:25 AM

Positive vibes for One World
By THEAN LEE CHENG

DURING the recent Ramadhan month, One World Hotel’s Buka puasa spread was enjoyed by more than 9,000 guests, an increase of 3,000 compared with last year’s.

Since the hotel opened its doors 15 months ago, it has so far done two Buka puasa and its GM Ho Hoy Sum is pleased with the revenue of RM1mil from last month’s event.

“We have made our presence,” he says.

One World Hotel, a member of Worldhotels, is owned by Bandar Utama City *Sdn Bhd, which is part of the First Nationwide Group of Companies, which is ultimately owned by the family of Tan Sri Teo Soo Cheng.

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One World Hotel has made its presence, says Ho

The five-star hotel has today added new facilities to the place, three extra function rooms to its previous 15 and some changes to its food and beverage (F&B) outlets.

There seems to be a flurry of interest in hotel developments in that suburban location. Besides One World, owners Bandar Utama City is now planning to build another hotel in the vicinity.

A few months ago, the Boustead group announced that it was building a 302-room four-star hotel with convention facilities behind Cineleisure.:banana::banana:

This means that the two adjacent townships of Bandar Utama and Mutiara Damansara will have four hotels between them, one five star and three four-star service hotels.

Ho says the new hotel will be located next to the new wing of 1-Utama Shopping Centre and will be sited on the currently open air car park next to Giant Supermarket.

Ho says the new three to four-star hotel will have nothing less than 400 rooms in order for it to be cost effective.

“Otherwise the development cost will be expensive. As it is, building materials cost is constantly increasing,” he says.

Work on the new hotel is expected to start in 2010 and will involve an investment of about RM100mil. The five-star One World Hotel was an investment of about RM300mil.

It celebrated its first year anniversary three months ago.

This means while One World adjoins 1-Utama’s old wing, and next to KPMG Tower and Plaza IBM, the new hotel will be adjacent to the new wing. Other plans for that piece of land include possibly a hospital and a retirement village, Ho says.

The new hotel will be a direct competitor to the Curve’s Royale Bintang Damansara. also a four-star hotel with 145 rooms.

Ho says the interest to have more hotels in that location is to accommodate the growing corporate and business community in the vicinity.

“Kota Damansara and the townships around here are growing towards Sungai Buloh. A lot of companies are also relocating to Petaling Jaya and some of them have bought corporate lots here.

The coming up of various office towers have also contributed to the interest in hotel development in this area,” says Ho, adding that there are a large number of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Kota Damansara.

About 46% of One World Hotel’s revenue is derived from the corporate sector, 28% from government and individual travellers, 20% from meetings, incentives, conventions and events (Mice) market and 5% from leisure.

Three extra function rooms were added to the 15 at present . The 4,000 sq m Imperial Ballroom can be sub-sivided into three separ ate rooms. It has banquet facilities for 2,000 .

In many aspects, it has derived much of its revenue from the neighbouring Plaza IBM and KPMG Tower.

Ho says the group is currently building a second office tower block of about 20 floors which will be ready at the end of 2010.:banana::banana:

Next to the TV3 office is another plot of land which can accommodate three to four office blocks.

Boustead’s 26-storey Surian Tower, which will be occupied by September 2009, will also be another source of revenue.

“There is, therefore, a lot of potential in this area, especially now that we have been accorded Multimedia Super Corridor (MSC) cybercentre status,” says Ho.

On having four hotels in the two townships, Ho says the competition will drive the standard and the rates.

One World Hotel’s occupancy rate was 54% for its first six months with average room rates at RM325. It expects to close the year with 56% occupancy rate with average room rates of RM328.

In terms of revenue, it expects an 11% increase over last year’s RM60mil.

........cool...5 new projects in dis area...2 4 star hotels, 1 20storeys office tower, surian condo residence and ofcoz 2blocks 40storeys condominium(9BukitUtama).......:banana::banana::banana:

nazrey

October 10th, 2008, 11:28 PM

View from Grand Millennium Kuala Lumpur
Bukit Bintang
by mso88

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rizalhakim

October 11th, 2008, 08:38 AM

Gan keen on preserving history of heritage buildings
Story and photos by GRACE CHEN

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WHAT happens when you appoint a history buff as hotel manager of The Heritage Station Hotel? Obviously, one would expect a lot of digging around and sure enough, Lloyd Gan, 36, has already amassed a few folders of old documents and photographs since he joined the management team in March this year.

According to Gan, the purpose of this history project was to collect as much data as he could and to table the results of his findings to the public. So far, Gan’s focus has fallen on the late Arthur Benison Hubback, who was the appointed architect for the Federated Malay States from mid 1800s to 1909.

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Big collection: Gan and Rosli looking through documents and pictures for their history project

Hubback’s work included Masjid Jamek Kuala Lumpur and Kuala Lumpur Railway Station and Gan’s workplace, which was completed in 1910. Obtaining some of the original documents and photocopying them has taken Gan to the United Kingdom to meet Hubback’s daughter, Yvonne, now 95. Most of the research work was personally borne by Gan who has spent close to RM14,000 thus far.

“What started me on this project was my experience of working with the Angkor Star hotel in Siem Riep, Cambodia, before joining The Heritage Station Hotel. The Angkor Wat was only 15 minutes’ drive from us and I was touched by the people’s reverence for the place although there was not much left of these ancient city ruins. It made me think of our own heritage buildings and realised that they too are standing monuments of history,” said Gan.

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Ancient: The Heritage Station Hotel¿s 100-year-old lift.

His interest was further stoked when he was approached by architecture students and Arch Collection, a local premium gifts supplier, to provide information on the building where he worked.

“That was when I discovered that that was a huge lack of accurate information. Even the name ‘Hubback’ was constantly spelt ‘Hubbock’ which was wrong,” said Gan who had it clarified with Yvonne when he met her in UK in August.

What spurred Gan for the task is the firm belief that every building has a story to tell.

“I hope that my efforts will act as a community model for others to follow suit. I believe that we should do something about documenting the history of not only old buildings but new ones as well, before it is too late. Imagine, another 100 years from now, KLCC will become a heritage building and I foresee that the future generation would also like to know what took place in there and who came and went,” said Gan.

He also pointed out that old buildings possessed a charm which reminds one of the olden days.

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Grand: The wooden staircase leading to the hotel rooftop.

“Some features, like the lift, timber staircases and the architecture of The Heritage Hotel for instance, are unique and can no longer be seen in modern buildings,” Gan said.

In addition to official records, Gan also pointed out that it was always interesting to gain personal knowledge on the people behind these stately structures. For example, Gan pointed out that Arthur also had a brother, Theodore, a big game hunter who later traded his guns for wildlife photography. Tragically, Theodore’s life ended under mysterious circumstances and his unmarked grave is believed to be somewhere in the jungles of Pahang.

As for Arthur himself, Gan found out from Yvonne that the famous architect was rather straight-forward and direct. This was in contrast to Theodore who was suave and diplomatic.

The final outcome for Gan’s history project, for which he has the assistance of another colleague, Rosli Mohamad, 42, will be displayed in a blog in the future.

Meanwhile, Gan is appealing for volunteers and funding to ensure the project’s continuity.

For enquiries, call 019-244 5357 (Gan) or check out his blog at thehubbacks.org.

rizalhakim

October 16th, 2008, 04:18 AM

ISO cert for resort hotel

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http://www.nst.com.my/Streets/Thursday/Stories/2375284/insidepix1
Staff of Palace of Golden Horses celebrating their achievement.

KUALA LUMPUR: After 11 months of dedication and teamwork, the Palace of the Golden Horses is now ISO certified.

The team of 448 comprised council members, a technical committee and internal auditors from various departments, including rooms, food and beverage, housekeeping, engineering, finance and public relations, headed by human resources director Karuna Teo, assisted by ISO consultants J. Deen and Associates.

According to ISO requirements, the resort's team had established an adequate quality policy, systematic planning and a monitoring and reviewing process of internal business operations.

"The certification from ISO, the International Standardisation Organisation, officially recognises our hotel's ability to fulfil and exceed guests' expectations and provide unique, signature service," said group public relations and communications manager Farah Halim.

rizalhakim

October 21st, 2008, 07:19 AM

Hidden gem of a resort
By JADE CHAN

TUCKED away within Shah Alam in 160ha of tropical ambience is a gem of a resort called The Club at The Saujana Kuala Lumpur (TCATS) €” a place positioned as the best resort in Kuala Lumpur.

Exclusive, tranquil and luxurious are words that come to mind when describing this newly-opened boutique resort featuring 105 rooms and suites.

General manager Herbert Laubichler-Pichler and manager Tim Bilfinger believe that TCATS is unique because it has a different yet warm look, approach and design. It offers personalised service through which everything is taken care of, and the concept on food is that it should be good and clean.

“Our emphasis is our unique selling properties: natural environment, quiet and peaceful surroundings, space, exclusivity for guests and access to The Saujana KL’s facilities,” said Bilfinger.

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Spacious: A view of the Club Deluxe Suite, which can accommodate up to two adults and two children, and overlooks the lake or the gardens.

“We kept the names of our facilities simple (The Restaurant for example) and leave the rest to the imagination of guests so that they can decide about the facilities themselves.

“We want to let the guests explore the hotel. The less you give them, the more creative they become.

“The place where TCATS is located was formerly the Hyatt Regency. There was a change in the hotel’s management in 2005 and the owners approached General Hotel Management Ltd (GHM) to revamp the property into a more luxurious and boutique-style business,” said Laubichler-Pichler.

Singapore-based GHM Ltd is a luxury hotel management and development company whose portfolio includes The Datai and The Andaman in Langkawi, The Chedi Muscat in Oman and The Setai in Miami, Florida.

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Spacious: A view of the Terrace Studio Suite, which can accommodate up to two adults and one child, and overlooks the swmming pool and garden.

“When it came to staff, we went for those with heart and a good approach. Our preference was attitude over experience, and the person had to match the client’s lifestyle,” said Bilfinger.

“The renovation of TCATS took 16 months and cost RM60mil for its interior, landscaping and additions. It was a challenge, having to work around the existing structure.”

Award-winning Indonesian interior designer Jaya Ibrahim of Jaya & Associates was roped in to work on the resort’s total design experience, which Laubichler-Pichler described as Asian-inspired with local influences, and of timeless elegance with its warm colours and muted tones.

Each room, ranging from the comfortable Executive Club Room and luxurious Terrace Studio Suite to the exclusive Executive Spa Suite, offers a scenic view of the lake, garden, pool or golf course.

They are equipped with built-in TVs and sound systems, iPod docks, DVD players and private work stations.

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Luxurious: The lavish bathrooms overlooking the gardens feature terrazzo bathtubs, his and hers sinks, as well as premium Anore bath amenities from Italy.
The lavish bathrooms feature terrazzo bathtubs, rainforest showers, his and hers sinks, as well as premium Anore bath amenities from Italy.

Besides the 39m swimming pool and two boardrooms, guests can use facilities at The Saujana KL and The Saujana Golf and Country Club including banqueting facilities, seven restaurants, two pools, tennis and squash courts, fitness centre and two golf courses.

Guests can enjoy various complimentary services like Club Concierge services, a mini bar that is replenished daily, wireless Internet broadband access, as well as all-day coffee and tea and evening cocktails and canapés at The Lounge.

The Restaurant, which has an adjoining terrace overlooking the garden, offers all-day dining with an open kitchen concept serving European and Asian delights.

Uniquely available at TCATS is The Club Concierge, a concept similar to butler service available around the clock to ensure the guests’ every need is taken care of.

The Club Concierge offers personalised check-ins at The Lounge or guest’s room, welcome service with cold towel and welcome drink, and limousine services.

Meanwhile, The Boutique displays a selection of handicraft and artwork handpicked from all over Asia, as well as hotel souvenirs that Bilfinger is sure would be a conversation starter among friends.

In the pipeline are plans to expand TCAT’s spa suite into The Spa, a haven for luxurious pampering, relaxation and medical beauty where guests can indulge in Asian massage, Swiss skincare treatments and other therapies from various worldwide locations.

Room rates range from RM990++ to RM4100++. For details, visit www.ghmhotels.com

rizalhakim

October 21st, 2008, 07:20 AM

VIP-service makes the place unique

HOW would you like to get a personal shopping butler to escort you into town by private limousine, or have all the hassle of making flight bookings and confirmations done for you?

The Club Concierge (CC) does all these and more. It provides a professional and dedicated service to all guests that ensures disturbances are kept to a minimum.

“While both attend to guests’ needs, a butler provides one-to-one service; the CC does not invade on the guest’s privacy. We are polite, friendly but not overly personal,” said The Club at The Saujana chief concierge Azman Ismail.

“Our team renders as much of a personalised service according to the individual’s requirements. We try to put ourselves in the guests’ shoes and understand their tastes, personalities and likes.

“All our guests are our VIPs. We don’t give different levels of treatment to different people.”

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The people: Some of the key personnel posing at the resort. (Back row, from left) assistant executive housekeeper Shamsol B. Mustapa, assistant chief engineer John Cheng, manager Tim Bilfinger, executive sous chef Chris Dodds, assistant food and beverage manager Robert Bimminger, chief concierge Azman Ismail and assistant front office manager Chow Suat Lee (front, centre).

According to him, a CC can serve as a tour guide, shopping assistant, butler, secretary, personal assistant, social advisor and personal confidante.

He cited an example where if an elderly couple would like to go out for a night in town, he would tailor a programme that includes dinner at a nice restaurant followed by entertainment at either a jazz bar or orchestra, while ensuring their transport arrangements.

If a guest’s luggage is misplaced when he arrives at the airport, the CC will do the necessary follow-ups and, if the luggage does not arrive in time for his departure date, the CC will have it sent to wherever he is.

Azman said: “Once a reservation is confirmed, a CC will find out the guests’ requirements about two weeks before their arrival to make their stay hassle-free.

“We take care of guests from the moment they arrive at the airport until they leave for the airport.

“We have to be adaptable to the environment. It’s a challenging but fun job.”

Azman is also a member of Les Clefs d’Or, an international network of concierges.

Members can be recognised by the crossed gold keys - a symbol of guaranteed, quality service - pinned on the lapels of their uniforms.

rizalhakim

October 24th, 2008, 08:35 AM

Pesona The Nomad Sucasa
Oleh Syah Rul Aswari Abdullah
srul@hmetro.com.my

http://www.kl-hotels.com/sucasa/images/hotel00.jpg

SUCASA, perkataan daripada kamus Sepanyol membawa maksud rumah anda menterjemah kemewahan yang melingkari dekorasi penginapan ini. Di The Nomad Sucasa, tetamu pasti terpesona dengan tahap keselesaan, mutu perkhidmatan di tengah kesibukan ibu kota ini.

Asalnya, bangunan di Jalan Ampang berkenaan dinamakan hotel Sucasa sebelum ditukar kepada The Nomad Sucasa, baru-baru ini selepas diuruskan The Nomad Group Berhad..

Pengerusinya,, Mohd Nasir Ali, berkata pihaknya menjalankan pengubahsuaian besar-besaran sebagai antara langkah penjenamaan semula hotel itu, selepas mengambil alih Mac tahun lalu.

Apartmen servis itu kini menjanjikan mutu perkhidmatan dan layanan bertaraf lima bintang kepada pelanggan serentak dengan pelancaran wajah barunya itu. Ia menawarkan 180 unit penginapan - setiap satunya dengan pilihan sama ada satu atau dua bilik tidur.

Tetamu boleh memilih sama ada untuk membuat tempahan mengikut hari atau tinggal untuk tempoh lebih lama sesuai dengan permintaan pelancong asing yang menjadikan Malaysia destinasi percutian musim panas mereka.

Suite yang luas menawarkan gaya hidup kosmopolitan juga sesuai dengan kehendak setiap tetamu. Setiap bilik dilengkapi dengan ruang rehat, ruang makan dan dapur.

Lokasinya di Jalan Ampang berdekatan dengan deretan beberapa kedutaan asing, kawasan digelar sebagai Embassy Row. Tetamu hanya perlu berjalan kaki untuk ke kompleks beli belah, restoran, kelab hiburan dan kafe.

Malah, ia terletak tidak jauh dari hospital swasta utama, Polo & Riding Club di samping lima minit perjalanan untuk ke Suria KLCC. Ringkasnya, penginapan semua suite ini bertaraf empat bintang ini menjanjikan sentuhan peribadi yang tidak akan dilupakan setiap tetamu.

KEMUDAHAN

Selain kad sekuriti lif dan kaunter perkhidmatan tetamu 24 jam, apartmen servis ini menawarkan tempat letak kereta berbumbung, kolam renang dan gimnasium. Spa yang beroperasi di hotel ini bakal dibuka tidak lama lagi.

INFO

The Nomad Sucasa

222, Jalan Ampang,

50450 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

Tel :03 4251 3833

Faks : 03 4252 1096

Emel : resvn@thenomadsucasa.com

http://www.sucasahotel.com/

rizalhakim

October 24th, 2008, 08:37 AM

Suite mewah RM8,000 semalam
Oleh Syah Rul Aswari Abdullah
srul@hmetro.com.my

http://www.kl-hotels.com/legend-kl/images/hotel00.jpg

TIGA suite dengan tema berbeza - Phoenix, Marilyn Monroe dan Topkapi - kemewahan peribadi di lantai seluas 11,000 kaki persegi menjadi tarikan utama Hotel Legend Kuala Lumpur.

Pengurus Komunikasinya, Lee Meng Hong, berkata pihaknya sering mendapat pertanyaan dan tempahan mengenai 'suite' penthouse Monroe daripada tetamu yang terpesona dengan kehebatan simbol seks Hollywood itu.

"Ada tetamu yang tinggal di suite ini untuk tempoh sebulan. Keistimewaan suite ini terletak pada gaya hiasan dalamannya yang mengembalikan kegemilangan bintang yang terkenal di serata dunia itu," katanya.

Suite berharga sekitar RM8,000 semalam itu adalah antara 620 bilik dan suite ditawarkan di Hotel Legend. Asalnya, penginapan ini dibina bagi menampung permintaan pelancong terutama MICE dengan pembinaan Pusat Dagangan Dunia Putra (PWTC) dan pusat beli-belah, The Mall.

Sejak membuka pintunya lebih 14 tahun dulu, hotel ini menjadi penginapan utama untuk peserta dan pengunjung pelbagai pameran tempatan dan antarabangsa yang berlangsung di PWTC.

"Kebanyakan mereka mempunyai acara memilih hotel kami sebagai penginapan mereka. Kami juga sering menerima tempahan berkumpulan daripada agensi kerajaan dan kumpulan konvensyen," katanya.

Lee berkata, rata-rata tetamu menyenangi hotel itu berikutan lokasinya yang terletak dalam jaringan pengangkutan awam utama di tengah ibu kota seperti Star-LRT dan monorel.

"Ini memudahkan tetamu yang ingin meneroka tarikan pelancongan dan kawasan beli-belah di Bukit Bintang dan Jalan Tuanku Abdul Rahman," katanya.

Maka, tidak hairanlah, kadar penginapan mencecah sehingga 95 peratus antara Julai dan Ogos, sebelum berlegar antara 60 dan 70 peratus pada bulan lain.

TEMPAT MAKAN

Museum Chinese Restaurant menawarkan pengalaman 'bersantap' bagai maharaja China. Pelayan yang memakai pakaian tradisional dinasti Qing bakal menyajikan kombinasi hidangan dinasti Manchu dan Han.

Manakala Restoran Jepun Gen pula tampil dengan hiasan 'avante-garde' dengan pengalaman menikmati hidangan sambil menyaksikan pemandangan indah Kuala Lumpur. Restoran ini dibahagikan kepada tiga - kaunter sushi dan sashimi; teppanyaki dan ruang makan utama.

Tetamu di tingkat lobi boleh mengunjungi Di-Atas Brasserie untuk sarapan bufet, makan tengah hari, maka malam dan minum petang hujung minggu. Atau menikmati kek enak dan minum di Berisi Lounge atau bersantai di pub, The Monkey Bar.

KEMUDAHAN PERSIDANGAN

Dewan utama tanpa tiang dengan keluasan 10,000 kaki persegi seakan-akan mengembalikan kegemilangan bangsawan Eropah. Pilihan lain termasuk tujuh bilik mesyuarat dan tiga bilik lebih kecil.

PROMOSI

'Flavors of Ramadhan' menawarkan enam menu utama meliputi 100 hidangan tempatan dan antarabangsa di Di-Atas Brasserie. Bufet berbuka puasa ini ditawarkan pada harga dari RM75 (dewasa) dan RM37.50 (kanak-kanak). Tempahan, hubungi 03 4042 9888 sambungan. 9032, atau emel fb@legendsgroup.com.

INFO

The Legend Hotel

Tel: 03 4042 9888

Faks: 03 4043 0700

Talian bebas tol: 1 800 88 3390

E-mel: reservation@legendsgroup.com

http://www.legendsgroup.com/legendkl/

rizalhakim

October 24th, 2008, 08:42 AM

Hotel mewah bagai istana
Oleh Syah Rul Aswari Abdullah
srul@hmetro.com.my

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KUDA, antara tujuh daripada 12 binatang dalam kalendar Lunar masyarakat Cina, dipercayai mewakili ciri perkasa, indah dan simbol kasih sayang. Malah, mereka yang di lahirkan pada tahun haiwan ini dikatakan mewarisi sifat berdikari dan memiliki kebijaksanaan secara semula jadi.

Justeru, tuah haiwan liar ini menjadi teras kepada reka bentuk dan seni bina Palace Of The Golden Horses. Hotel lima bintang ini tersergam indah di tapak seluas 11.2 hektar dengan panorama menarik tasik bekas lombong seluas 60 hektar.

Penggunaan kuda, haiwan sejagat ini turut bertepatan dengan lokasinya yang terletak bersebelahan Kelab Lumba Kuda Selangor.

Hiasan dalaman dengan gaya mewah ini mampu menambat hati setiap tetamu yang pernah menjejakkan kaki ke hotel ini. Dari luar, ramai yang tersalah anggap hotel ini sebagai istana berikutan seni bina Moorish yang menjadi teras utama reka bentuknya.

Aura glamor hotel ini menjadikannya sering dipilih lokasi persidangan utama menghimpunkan pemimpin dunia.

“Kami menyediakan pelbagai pakej yang boleh disesuaikan dengan kehendak tetamu,” kata Pengurus Perhubungan Awam dan Komunikasinya, Farah Halim.

Hotel ini menawarkan 400 bilik dan 80 suite, semuanya dilengkapi kemudahan teknologi terkini termasuk akses Internet, telefon dengan pesanan suara dan televisyen kabel.

Tetamu yang menginap di Dignitaries Floor pula menikmati lebih privasi dengan khidmat ‘butler’ peribadi.

Sehingga kini, ia sudah menjadi tuan rumah kepada be berapa persidangan utama dunia termasuk Golf Piala Dunia 1999, Sidang Pergerakan Negara Berkecuali (NAM) 2003 -2005, Gourmand World Media Awards 2006 dan Anugerah Filem India Global (GIFA) 2006.

Kemudahan persidangan

Hotel ini memiliki sayap khas menempatkan Pusat Per sidangan Sultan Salahuddin Abdul Aziz Shah khusus untuk persidangan dalam skala besar. Ia memiliki 20 bilik mesyuarat termasuk dua dewan utama iaitu Royal Ballroom dan Unity Room.

Selain itu, auditorium dengan kapasiti 318 orang sesuai dijadikan lokasi persembahan dan majlis korporat. Selari dengan aliran terkini, kanopi mewah tepi tasik, Le Marquee dengan kapasiti 2,000 orang boleh dimanfaatkan untuk pelbagai acara berprestij.

Aktiviti

Keluasan tasik menjadikannya lokasi terbaik di tengah kota untuk mencuba pelbagai sukan rekreasi air termasuk jet ski dan ‘wakeboarding’. Untuk membeli-belah, pengunjung bo leh menaiki teksi air terus ke The Mines Resort City.

Spa Jojoba pula semakin popular dengan pelbagai pilihan terapi. Mereka yang bersiar-siar dalam suasana hijau boleh berbuat demikian menerusi trek joging sepanjang 2.1 ki lometer.

Tempat makan

Restoran Cina Kim Ma meraih pelbagai anugerah termasuk Restoran Makanan Cina Terbaik pada Anugerah Pelancongan Malaysia 2005/2006. Mahu hidangan negara matahari terbit, anda boleh mencuba sushi, sashimi dan tempura dengan berkunjung ke Kin Ko Uma.

Di restoran Carousel, pengunjung diberi pilihan sama ada mahu menikmati keenakan masakan tradisional Malaysia mahupun Barat. Gaya hiasan permainan ‘merry go around’ yang menarik juga berupaya membuat pengunjung ter pesona.

Bagi yang mahu mengubah selera kepada masakan Itali, mereka boleh berkunjung ke Cavallini’s.

Penggemar cerut pula boleh berkunjung ke Polo Club, kelab khusus untuk lelaki yang bersantai sambil menikmati mi numan. Ia turut menyediakan meja snuker dan pelbagai bahan bacaan.

Promosi

Palace Weekend Escapade menawarkan penginapan dua hari satu malam di bilik deluxe, diskaun 50 peratus untuk bufet minum petang di Carousel Cafe dan pakej di Spa JojoBali. Selain itu, tetamu boleh menikmati pengangkutan percuma ke Mines Resort City, Mid Valley dan Suria KLCC.

Harga dari RM195.

Hotel

Jalan Kuda Emas, MINES Resort City ,

43300 Seri Kembangan, Selangor Darul Ehsan

Tel: 603 - 8946 4888

Faks: 603 - 8944 3475

www.palaceofthegoldenhorses.com.my

nazrey

November 3rd, 2008, 11:43 AM

by split.second

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nazrey

November 5th, 2008, 08:04 AM

by jasonbehr87

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3204/3001990581_d1d5a3d31f_b.jpg

nazrey

November 7th, 2008, 01:14 AM

by lougriffiths

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3011/3008211649_bdf9c3a941_o.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3212/3008212129_889a25ba7f_o.jpg

rizalhakim

November 10th, 2008, 08:52 AM

Seri Malaysia labur lebih RM300j tambah hotel

Oleh DALIZA ARIFFIN

KUALA LUMPUR 9 Nov. - Rangkaian Hotel Seri Malaysia Sdn. Bhd. (Seri Malaysia) akan menambah sekurang-kurang sembilan buah lagi hotel di bawah operasinya melibatkan pelaburan lebih RM300 juta.

Penambahan itu juga melibatkan cawangan baru yang dirancang dalam tempoh Rancangan Malaysia ke Sembilan (RMK-9), kata Pengerusinya Datuk Seri Dr. Shafie Salleh.

Shafie, seorang bekas menteri berkata, projek pembinaan itu akan dilaksanakan melalui dua cara iaitu projek dibiayai kerajaan pusat tetapi lokasinya disediakan oleh kerajaan negeri.

Satu lagi cara, kata beliau adalah projek yang dibangunkan berdasarkan konsep bina, sewa dan pindah yang akan diterajui oleh syarikat milik kerajaan (GLC) di lokasi strategik di bandar-bandar utama yang mampu menjana keuntungan.

Shafie berkata, di bawah cara kedua itu, pihaknya sedang berbincang dengan sebuah GLC tetapi menjelaskan masih terlalu awal untuk membuat sebarang pengumuman mengenainya.

''Kami telah mengenal pasti beberapa destinasi berpotensi antaranya ialah Kota Bahru, Kelantan Kuching, Sarawak, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah dan Putrajaya, Wilayah Persekutuan,'' kata beliau dalam temu bual dengan Utusan Malaysia di sini baru-baru ini. Turut hadir, Pengarah Urusan Seri Malaysia, Zahriah Abd. Kadir.

Bagi projek pembiayaan daripada kerajaan persekutuan dan kawasan tanah disediakan oleh kerajaan negeri pula, Shafie berkata syarikat telah mengenal pasti lima destinasi berpotensi.

Shafie berkata lima lokasi itu adalah di Kangar, Perlis; Tanjung Malim, Perak; Semporna, Sabah; Lawas, Sarawak dan Kepala Batas, Pulau Pinang.

Beliau berkata, rangkaian terbarunya di Kepala Batas itu telah disiapkan sepenuhnya dan dijangka mula beroperasi pada Januari tahun depan, sambil menambah setiap cawangan hotel menelan belanja RM32 juta hingga RM35 juta lengkap dengan kemudahan hotel bertaraf dua bintang.

Shafie berkata, Seri Malaysia yang diseliakan oleh Kementerian Kewangan Diperbadankan (MOF Inc.), Kementerian Pelancongan dan Kementerian Pembangunan Usahawan dan Koperasi itu juga dijangka melabur RM50 juta lagi untuk menaik taraf dua buah hotelnya di Seremban, Negeri Sembilan dan Taiping, Perak untuk menjadikan ia memiliki 100 buah bilik berbanding 50 buah bilik sebelum ini.

''Peningkatan taraf perlu dilakukan berikutan permintaan tinggi diterima daripada para pelanggan yang menginap di situ dan projek itu bakal dimulakan tahun depan,'' kata beliau.

Shafie berkata, Seri Malaysia yang kini memiliki serangkaian 18 buah hotel di seluruh negara, telah memfrancaiskan 17 buah hotelnya kepada 17 usahawan bumiputera.

Beliau menjelaskan bahawa Seri Malaysia yang telah mula beroperasi sejak 13 tahun yang lalu masih mengekalkan keunikannya sebagai hotel bertaraf dua bintang yang memiliki pasarannya yang tersendiri.

Malah Seri Malaysia sentiasa mengambil inisiatif untuk meningkatkan perkhidmatan hospitaliti dari masa ke semasa agar kakitangannya bukan sahaja daripada pengurus tetapi juga kepada peringkat bawahan menawarkan khidmat bertaraf empat bintang.

''Kami memiliki pasaran yang tersendiri kerana mahu menjadikan ia sebagai hotel mampu milik kepada semua orang,'' katanya.

Beliau berkata, hotel itu yang popular di kalangan pelancong beragama Islam di negara ini menawarkan harga penginapan antara RM90 hingga RM150 semalam.

Hingga kini, lebih kurang 60 peratus pelanggannya adalah daripada berkumpulan manakala bakinya daripada individu.

Ditanya sejauh mana Seri Malaysia mampu menepis kesan tempias daripada krisis kewangan antarabangsa yang boleh menyebabkan sektor pelancongan menjadi perlahan, Shafie berkata, syarikat tidak melihat ia sebagai satu cabaran kerana majoriti pengunjung hotel berkenaan terdiri daripada penduduk tempatan.

Beliau, bagaimanapun mengakui krisis kewangan Asia antara tahun 1997 hingga 1998 telah memberi kesan ketara kepada perniagaan Seri Malaysia.

nazrey

November 10th, 2008, 10:54 PM

New-look Hard Rock Cafe to attract more patrons
By Vasantha GanesanPublished: 2008/11/11

http://www.btimes.com.my/articles/prhardr/pix_bottom

The cafe, which used to cater to 600 customers a day and made RM19 million in revenue in 2007, expects at least a 10 per cent increase in both patronage and revenue

HARD Rock Cafe Kuala Lumpur reopened yesterday after a two-month closure for a RM3 million makeover.

Chairman Tan Sri Syed Yusof Syed Nasir said that Hard Rock expects a 10 per cent rise in both patronage as well as revenue following the refurbishment.

"We used to cater to 600 customers a day and we made RM19 million in revenue in 2007...we expect at least a 10 per cent increase in revenue and customers," Syed Yusof told Business Times.

He added that Hard Rock sells RM10,000 worth of merchandise each day.

His confidence stems from the conversion of the cafe to one which is more of a five-star category experience.

"Hard Rock is more modern now, a complete memorabilia overhaul, from Jimi Hendrix's silk jacket and Cheap Trick's checkerboard guitar," he said.

"The atmosphere is more restaurant-like now," he added.

"We are very excited about Hard Rock's new look and we are positive that this makeover will continue to make Hard Rock Cafe a city landmark and reaffirm our presence as the leading restaurant, tourists and nightlife entertainment destination in the city," he said.

rizalhakim

November 11th, 2008, 08:46 AM

nazrey

November 12th, 2008, 07:39 PM

Grand Millennium KL
by Jason Thai

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3178/3001173732_202e7af6f4_o.jpg

rizalhakim

November 14th, 2008, 06:56 AM

Layanan mesra di hotel moden

http://www.hoteladvisor.com/xml/image.aspx?key=V0NUX0hvdGVscztQcmltYXJ5SW1hZ2VVcmw7MTEzNDU4NTI=

IMPIANA Hotels and Resorts dikenali kerana keunikan tersendiri, reka bentuk dan hiasan dalaman yang memiliki teknologi moden selain layanan bertaraf antarabangsa.

Hotel di Jalan Pinang hanya beberapa ratus meter dari mercu tanda utama negara, Menara Berkembar Petronas dan Pusat Konvensyen Kuala Lumpur.

Lokasinya di tengah kawasan segi tiga emas juga menjadikan hotel ini penginapan pengembara bisnes yang popular.

Justeru, gaya moden tetapi elegan menjadi teras hiasan dalaman hotel ini - baik dari ruang lobi hingga ke setiap satu dari 335 biliknya - sama ada jenis Superior, Deluxe dan Junior Suites.

TEMPAT MAKAN
Tonka Bean Cafe. Deli, restoran 24 jam menyajikan pengalaman menjamu selera dalam suasana penuh bergaya.

Terletak di tingkat lobi, ia menampilkan dekorasi ala korporat.

Dengan kapasiti 180 orang untuk tempat duduk dalam dan 24 lagi di luar, ia turut menyediakan akses laptop percuma. Operasi bermula dari jam 8 pagi hingga 9 malam.

MESYUARAT DAN PERSIDANGAN
Dewan bankuet Impiana mempunyai kapasiti 250 untuk majlis makan malam dan 420 untuk acara duduk.

KEMUDAHAN LAIN
Spa Swasana menawarkan pelbagai rawatan meliputi terapi urutan muka, badan dan aromaterapi untuk mereka yang mahu memanjakan diri.

Terletak di tingkat tujuh, spa ini menawarkan urutan badan warisan penjagaan kesihatan Melayu, Thai dan Bali.

Ia menawarkan pakej istimewa “Spice Impression”, kombinasi balutan tubuh herba berempah (60 minit), terapi urutan badan (60 minit) dan mandian herba (30 minit) pada harga RM350 seorang.

HOTEL
Impiana KLCC Hotel & Spa
13, Jalan Pinang
Kuala Lumpur
Tel: 03-21471111 atau 1 800 88 3100.
http://www.impiana.com/

rizalhakim

November 18th, 2008, 05:18 AM

Hoteliers see challenging year ahead

http://biz.thestar.com.my/archives/2008/11/18/business/p5-hotelcht.JPG
PETALING JAYA: Hoteliers foresee a challenging year ahead given the present gloomy economic outlook.

Hotel Nikko Kuala Lumpur (KL) general manager Michael Borostyan said the first quarter was expected to be quiet due to the holiday season and the slowdown in the global economy.

Hotel Nikko, however, might be little affected as it was less reliant on long-haul markets, he said.

Parkroyal Hotels & Resorts, Malaysia, vice-president and Parkroyal Kuala Lumpur general manager Ian McKie said business growth next year would likely be on a reduced scale.

“Currently, our corporate business remains steady but we are seeing a slight softening in long-haul leisure business particularly from Britain,” he said.

Parkroyal’s business in September was below expectations due to the fasting month. However, there was a strong pick-up from the second week in October especially from the corporate segment.

Corporate meetings business also did well in October, McKie said.

“With the integration between Parkroyal Hotels and Pan Pacific, we will be a stronger and more dynamic entity in 2009,” he added.

Meanwhile, Borostyan said Hotel Nikko’s occupancy in the second half of 2008 was marginally lower than in the previous corresponding period.

“The only market that evidenced a significant drop was from the Middle East,” he said, adding that guests comprised 75% business travellers and 25% on leisure.

Hilton KL saw occupancy decline to 77% in the first half year from 81% in the previous corresponding period on “concerted effort to drive rates, “ said general manager Paul Hutton.

Occupancy in the second half was 75% from 85% a year ago due to on-going refurbishments of meeting rooms that prevented the hotel from catering to large business groups.

Hutton said the key trend in the present environment was the shorter length of stay. “The length of stay at our hotel averaged 2.3 days up until August but this has now dropped to 2.1 days from September to date,” he said. This was more obvious for holiday visitors paying their own way.

Hutton believed the introduction of Hilton KL’s new meetings and conventions offerings from December would make the hotel more attractive and competitive than others.

rizalhakim

November 18th, 2008, 05:19 AM

Hotel occupancy rates may stay firm till early 2009
By YEOW POOI LING

Association: Outlook beyond the first quarter is cautious

PETALING JAYA: Advanced hotel bookings in the country so far indicate that occupancy rates are likely to stay firm until the first quarter next year, but beyond that, the outlook is cautious, according to the Malaysian Association of Hotel Owners (MAHO).

MAHO president Low Gee Tat told StarBiz that occupancy rates had fallen during the Ramadhan month and there was evidence of slower take-up rates in October.

“But in the last quarter of the year, we should do all right and this will extend until first quarter of 2009,” he said, pointing out that people normally planned ahead of their travel.

“There is a cautionary mood of what’s after that. We’ll be happy if occupancy rates in the second half of 2009 stay the same as this year.” he said.

Low Gee Tat
Occupancy rates at city hotels are more consistent than the ones at resorts as resorts are affected by seasonal factors.

For example, visitations to beach resorts drop during the monsoon season.

Resorts, which tend to have more international travellers, are also affected by the holiday season in Europe or Japan.

Up to 80% of arrivals in Malaysia are regional tourists from Asean countries and China while the remainder come from the US, Europe, Australia and the Middle East.

Low said this trend was likely to continue in the next one to two years, especially since Asean countries were liberalising travel policy.

“Given the global economic outlook, we’ll have to drum up regional and domestic travel to compensate for any shortfall in international arrivals,” he said.

Low reckoned that an economic slowdown would prompt tourists to opt for more affordable destinations like Malaysia.

“There are hotels (in Malaysia) that suit every budget,” he said, noting that air fares were becoming very affordable thanks to no-frills airlines.

Tourism Malaysia had also done a great job in leading promotions with its Visit Malaysia and Malaysia, Truly Asia campaigns, he said.

But things could improve, Low said, pointing out that parks and gardens, as well as tourist attractions such as butterfly farms and Batu Caves, should be upgraded to attract visitors.

“We do not need to re-invent the wheel but we need to make them more attractive and cleaner for people to enjoy,” he said.

rizalhakim

November 19th, 2008, 04:38 AM

Club in the sky gets a complete make-over
By BAVANI M

http://thestar.com.my/archives/2008/11/19/central/m_pg20skybar.jpg
Stunning: The SkyBar now has some protection from inclement weather

THE intoxicating and easy going atmosphere at the SkyBar at Traders Hotel Kuala Lumpur put guests immediately at ease the moment they walked in and take in the sight of the Kuala Lumpur skyline.

It was a simple cocktail party held to showcase the newly-refurbished night spot and, needless to say, it was breathtaking!

It was only after they had checked out the beautiful view that guests noticed the posh new look for one of the city’s more popular hangouts.

http://thestar.com.my/archives/2008/11/19/central/m_pg20klcc.jpg
Magnificent: The KL skyline is one of the main attractions of SkyBar.

After a two-month make-over programme, Skybar not only sports a new look, but everything from the services and facilities has been upgraded and the most notable feature is the overhead installation added to shield guests from the elements.

Those invited to witness the re-opening also enjoyed finger food from the new tapas menu as well as indulged in several signature cocktails.

“We have made improvements to an already successful product – it goes deeper than mere cosmetic changes as it involves a re-invention of the food and beverage services as well.

“I am confident that SkyBar will remain ahead of the competition,’’ Traders Hotel general manager Ed Brea said.

Located on level 33 of the hotel, SkyBar has developed a popular following among local and international guests for its cocktails, music and gorgeous view.

nazrey

November 20th, 2008, 09:32 PM

Quran in hotel rooms soon
Updated: Thursday November 20, 2008 MYT 4:20:39 PM
By MAZWIN NIK ANIS

PUTRAJAYA: A copy of the Quran and its intepretation will be made available in most hotel rooms in the country to allow both Muslims and non-Muslims to have “access” to the Holy book.

Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said the department had embarked on a pilot project recently where a copy of the Quran’s intepretation was placed in several five-star hotel rooms in the Klang Valley.

He said the move received positive response from guests and members of the Malaysian Association of Hotel Owners (MAHO) have asked the Islamic Development department (Jakim) if they too could be part of this project.

“This move is not only because of the high number of visitors and tourists from the Middle East, but also because there are people of other beliefs who are keen to know more about what is said in the Quran, just as they are interested to know more about the teachings of other religions.

“We are pleased that our effort is accepted positively by the public. Soon, one can expect to see a copy of the Quran in rooms of three-star hotels and above,” he told reporters Thursday after launching the latest Bahasa Malaysia-version of the interpretation of the Quran.

Ahmad Zahid said Jakim would be printing another 50,000 copies of the Quran’s interpretation for the purpose, costing some RM1.3mil, adding these books were in English to cater to foreign visitors and tourists.

http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2008/11/20/nation/20081120151116&sec=nation

rizalhakim

November 24th, 2008, 06:38 AM

Grand Millennium KL
by Jason Thai

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3178/3001173732_202e7af6f4_o.jpg

Millennium yang baru

http://www.kosmo.com.my/kosmo/pix/2008/1123/Kosmo/Alam_Damai/al_01.1.jpg
RUANG lobi tampil penuh gaya dan ditambah keunikannya dengan binaan bumbung kaca telus pandang.

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KALAU anda baru tiba dan sedang turun dari limosin ataupun sedang melangkah keluar dari lobi ke muka pintu utama hotel ini, perhatikan pemandangan yang terhidang di depan mata. Inilah satu perkara yang paling benar tentang istilah 'lokasi di jantung ibu kota'.

Perhatikan, apabila berdiri di hadapan pintu Hotel Grand Millennium Kuala Lumpur, sememangnya perasaan yang terbit daripada apa yang diterjemah mata itulah yang dinamakan kelas penginapan hebat di tengah-tengah Kuala Lumpur.

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KESELESAAN di bilik penginapan dijelmakan melalui pemilihan kemasan dan tema warna lembut.

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Rentangan Jalan Bukit Bintang menyaksikan pelbagai tarikan komersial daripada pusat hiburan ternama, restoran dan kafe, toko jenama unggulan hinggalah kepada gedung beli-belah moden. Di sini juga, siar kaki paling bergaya bersedia mempamerkan atur langkah warga kota dengan pernyataan fesyen masing-masing.

Grand Millennium Kuala Lumpur menyambut pengunjungnya dengan layanan dan kemudahan bertaraf lima bintang. Mempertaruhkan konsep reka dalaman yang diangkat dari era deko seni Perancis, ia menangkap perhatian dengan pemilihan elemen seni grand seperti pemilihan candelier juraian kristal, bumbung kaca telus pandang dan kemasan lantai marmar hitam.

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Sebanyak 468 bilik penginapan termasuk 30 unit suit disediakan untuk penginap korporat dengan setiap satunya memiliki pandangan jendela kaca dari lantai ke siling untuk membingkai panorama terbaik.

http://www.kosmo.com.my/kosmo/pix/2008/1123/Kosmo/Alam_Damai/al_01.4.jpg
PERNYATAAN fesyen yang ketara di Jalan Bukit Bintang bagaikan melimpah masuk mempengaruhi rias dalaman hotel.

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Secara keseluruhannya, kemasan dinding dan perabot disudahi dengan aura pastel rona bumi yang meninggalkan efek damai dalam fikiran.

Bercakap tentang kualiti penginapan di Deluxe Room, ruangan 40 meter persegi itu tidak akan dilupa pengembara kota saat menyegarkan diri dalam kamar mandi marmarnya.

http://www.kosmo.com.my/kosmo/pix/2008/1123/Kosmo/Alam_Damai/al_01.5.jpg
SESI menjamu selera di lounge lobi, Bistro 160, memudahkan urusan sembang petang bercampur bisnes.

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Telefon bebas gagang, peti keselamatan elektronik, televisyen skrin rata LCD 32 inci, saluran kabel dan bar mini adalah pelengkap keperluan. Apatah lagi disertakan akses jalur lebar dan faksimili untuk urusan perhubungan.

Jika anda menginap di Executive Club, perkhidmatan pelayan peribadi dan juga penggunaan penuh Club Lounge adalah bonus untuk memudahkan urusan daftar masuk dan keluar selain penyediaan kudapan dan koktel malam sepanjang hari dan malam.

http://www.kosmo.com.my/kosmo/pix/2008/1123/Kosmo/Alam_Damai/al_01.6.jpg
HARI yang meletihkan boleh diakhiri dengan kunjungan ke pusat spa.

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Tiba-tiba selera makan minta dipuaskan? Empat pilihan restoran atau bar boleh dikunjungi, bermula dengan The Mill. Di sini, konsep dapur terbuka yang menawarkan seleksi ala carte Asia dan Kontinental lazat menanti kedatangan tetamunya.

Zing pula perlu dicuba seandainya ingin bersantap bak maharaja dinasti China. Kuisin Cina mewah dan popular seperti sirip jerung, abalon, dim sum dan makanan laut segar dipersembahkan secara eksotik terus ke pinggan hidangan. Agenda sembang petang boleh ditemani variasi kek dan pastri serta kopi terbaik di lounge lobi, Bistro 160.

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Sementara itu, Pulse pula menanti kunjungan tetamu yang dahagakan malam pesta. Muncul sebagai kelab hiburan ultra pertama dan terkini di pusat bandar raya, ia menghiburkan ramai dengan ledakan rentak dance dari band dan deejay selebriti.

Ada waktu terluang untuk bersantai setelah selesai agenda bisnes? Tujulah ke kolam renang terbuka hotel ini yang pasti mengingatkan anda pada sebuah destinasi percutian tropika. Kolam renang reka bentuk bebas yang dikelilingi pohon hijau yang rimbun seolah-olah mahu mengasingkan pengunjungnya daripada hiruk-pikuk realiti hutan batu di luarnya.

Grand Millennium Kuala Lumpur seperti dalam brosur mencanangkan konsep hospitaliti bercirikan budaya Malaysia yang sebenar. Layanan sebegitu bukan sahaja diwakili penampilan hias dalaman dan kecemerlangan keseluruhan 15,000 meter persegi ruang fungsinya, malah disampaikan dengan baik oleh petugas-petugasnya yang ramah menyapa dan membantu. - HAMZAH ABDUL HAMID

http://www.kosmo.com.my/kosmo/pix/2008/1123/Kosmo/Alam_Damai/al_01.8.jpg

http://www.kosmo.com.my/kosmo/pix/2008/1123/Kosmo/Alam_Damai/al_01.9.jpg

nazrey

December 8th, 2008, 07:05 PM

Pacific Regency looking for small boutique hotels
By Vasantha Ganesan
Published: 2008/12/09

PACIFIC Regency Hotels & Resorts Sdn Bhd, the hospitality arm of Pan Global Bhd, is looking to expand its hospitality business, particularly into boutique hotels.

The group, which operates the Pacific Regency Hotel Suites on Jalan P. Ramlee, Kuala Lumpur, is keen to own and operate hotels on islands off the east coast of Peninsular Malaysia.

"We set up Pacific Regency Hotels & Resorts earlier this year to manage new and upcoming projects. We are now looking for small boutique hotels on islands in the east coast to buy and manage," its general manager Kenny Teo said in an interview with Business Times.

Teo said that it was keen on taking over existing properties to grow the business faster.

"We are looking at properties with 50 to 60 rooms, which are exclusive," he said.

These properties would be able to offer an average room rate (ARR) of RM1,000 to RM1,500 per night.

Teo said that earliest possible date when this plan may materialise is in 2010.

Meanwhile, Teo has put in place strategies to help its existing 153-suite Pacific Regency ride through a possibly trying times in 2009.

Based on the current scenario, the hotel hopes to be able to increase its ARR by about 20 per cent in 2009. It expects to finish 2008 at an ARR of RM245 per night and an average occupancy of 85 per cent.

"We are not worried about our occupancy (in 2009). We have no reason why it will not fill up ... we are more concerned about the rates," he said, saying that competition would get stiffer in terms of rates if the impact of the worsening economy hits Malaysia further.

Up to 70 per cent of the hotel's business comes from the corporate market, mainly from France, Italy, Australia and the UK.

For next year, the hotel plans to tap into the Scandinavian countries, Spain and Portugal as well as the Asian market including Indonesia and Thailand.

Pacific Regency will also look at locking in more long-term guests. This group now makes up 30 per cent of its room inventory.

Pacific Regency is like a serviced apartment in its set-up of rooms and offers a fully-equipped kitchen. At the same time, it offers the services like in a hotel including laundry, food and beverage outlets and room services.

Teo said that creating awareness of the brand has been a challenge even though the hotel is a homegrown brand and 14 years old.

rizalhakim

December 9th, 2008, 03:54 AM

http://www.cuti.com.my/hotel/Hotelpages/Kl/pacificregency/main.jpg

nazrey

December 9th, 2008, 02:57 PM

by gsurya

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3070/3094535058_8d8c4e61df_b.jpg

rizalhakim

December 10th, 2008, 09:31 AM

KL hotel is the best in South East Asia

http://www.johnnyjet.com/image/PictureForNewsletterMalaysiaKLPROExterioRitz.jpg

THE Ritz-Carlton, Kuala Lumpur won the South East Asia’s Hotel of the Year 2008-2010 under theHospitality Asia Platinum Awards (HAPA) - Regional Series.

The hotel was recognised for its commitment to excellence, flawless facilities and personalised care.

It was a finalist in five categories — Hotel of the Year, Signature Luxury Hotel, Signature Hotel Spa (Spa Village, Kuala Lumpur), Most Exquisite Palate Experience and Most Dynamic General Manager.

The evaluation process spanned eight months and included leading hotels in South East Asia.

Each hotel was reviewed anonymously by a panel of judges, who sampled and rated hotel services, facilities, dining, spa, and overall hotel image.

Hotel’s general manager Stephen A. Cokkinias said the award was a result of teamwork.

“This truly belongs to our employees who have been providing good service and exceptional products and facilities for our guests.

“We are happy with the award and truly honoured,” he said.

The awards, organised by World Asia Publishing, is in its seventh year and have grown substantially from its inception.

The aim of HAPA is to continuously recognise and pay tribute to the exceptional professionals and establishments in the hospitality industry.

tanpadia

December 13th, 2008, 03:47 PM

http://i151.photobucket.com/albums/s156/tanpadia/TheRitz-CarltonKualaLumpur-Exter-1.jpg
http://i151.photobucket.com/albums/s156/tanpadia/TheRitz-CarltonKualaLumpur-Exterior.jpg

rizalhakim

December 18th, 2008, 06:52 AM

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rizalhakim

December 18th, 2008, 07:45 AM

Kehebatan Pan Pacific KLIA

Oleh ADHAM SHADAN
adham.shadan@kosmo.com.my

http://kosmo.com.my/kosmo/pix/2008/1206/Kosmo/Rencana_Utama/ru_01.1.jpg

Hotel Pan Pacific Lapangan Terbang Kuala Lumpur telah dinobatkan sebagai Hotel Lapangan Terbang Terbaik Dunia bagi tahun 2008 di Caribbean.

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Nama Malaysia memang sentiasa mekar mengharum lantaran kejayaan dan kecemerlangan yang dicapai di peringkat antarabangsa dalam pelbagai bidang sejak kebelakangan ini.

Kesemua pencapaian itu sememangnya berjaya mengangkat nama Malaysia di persada dunia sekali gus memperkenalkan lagi bumi bertuah ini kepada masyarakat antarabangsa.

Terbaru, Hotel Pan Pacific Lapangan Terbang Antarabangsa Kuala Lumpur (KLIA) meraih anugerah gemilang apabila dinobatkan sebagai Hotel Lapangan Terbang Terbaik Dunia (World's Leading Airport Hotel) dalam anugerah berprestij, World Travel Awards (WTA) 2008 di Caribbean.

Pencapaian ini begitu mengagumkan kerana ia mengekori kejayaan pada Jun lalu apabila hotel ini meraih gelaran Hotel Lapangan Terbang Utama Asia. Hotel ini juga pernah memenangi anugerah Hotel Lapangan Terbang Terbaik Asia oleh majalah Business Asia selama tujuh tahun keseluruhannya.

Diberi jolokan 'anugerah Oskar dalam industri pelancongan', memenangi anugerah WTA bagi kategori Hotel Lapangan Terbang Terbaik Dunia sememangnya sesuatu yang besar ertinya kepada negara.

"Pengiktirafan ini penting bagi kami kerana ia seperti menyalakan obor Malaysia Boleh!" kata Pengurus Besarnya, Hans G. Winsnes kepada Kosmo! ketika ditemui di hotel tersebut di Sepang, Selangor baru-baru ini.

"Tanpa ragu, kecemerlangan yang konsisten menjadi kunci kejayaan hotel ini diundi sebagai hotel lapangan terbang yang terbaik di dunia. Fokus kami adalah untuk sentiasa memberikan perkhidmatan terbaik dan perhatian kepada keselesaan tetamu-tetamu kami," katanya.

http://kosmo.com.my/kosmo/pix/2008/1206/Kosmo/Rencana_Utama/ru_01.2.jpg
BILIK deluxe yang dikemas rapi (atas) dan rekaan dalaman lokasi penyambut tetamu Pacific Club.

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Bagi kategori Hotel Lapangan Terbang Terbaik Dunia, Pan Pacific KLIA telah menewaskan saingannya Fairmont Vancouver Airport Hotel Vancouver, Kanada; Hilton Melbourne International Airport, Australia; Hyatt Regency Incheon, Korea; Kempinski Airport Hotel Munich, Jerman; Millennuim Airport Hotel, Dubai dan Renaissance Barcelona Airport Hotel, Sepanyol.

Penerima anugerah ini berasaskan undian yang dilakukan oleh 167,000 pelancong profesional dari 160 buah negara. Ia diukur berdasarkan perkhidmatan, inovasi dan kualiti.

Berinspirasikan rimba dan oasis, kehijauan pepohon yang rimbun dan deru air terjun telah menyerikan laman-laman luar hotel sekali gus mencetus kedamaian kepada pelanggan.

Hotel yang mula beroperasi pada 1999 ini juga dihubungkan secara terus dengan lapangan terbang KLIA menerusi jambatan yang dinamakan skybridge. Suntikan ala futuristik terpamer padanya kerana jaraknya hanya 0.2 kilometer dari menara kawalan lalu lintas udara KLIA, sebuah menara berbentuk obor gergasi berketinggian 130 meter.

http://kosmo.com.my/kosmo/pix/2008/1206/Kosmo/Rencana_Utama/ru_01.3.jpg
PERKHIDMATAN pengangkutan buggy melalui skybridge 24 jam.

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Tentu ramai yang tertanya-tanya apakah kelainan perkhidmatan yang ditawarkan di hotel ini sehingga melayakkannya mendapat gelaran Hotel Lapangan Terbang Terbaik Dunia? Bagi Winsnes, mereka mempunyai beberapa perkhidmatan yang disifatkan unik dan mungkin tidak terdapat di hotel-hotel lapangan terbang lain.

Pertamanya, pihak hotel menyediakan perkhidmatan pengangkutan buggy yang berterusan selama 24 jam. Pihak hotel bersedia menjemput tetamu di satu lokasi di lapangan terbang dan membawa terus tetamu ke hotel menerusi skybridge.

"Dengan mengambil masa hanya kira-kira lima minit, tetamu tiba di hotel dengan cara yang lebih mudah. Kami menerima maklum balas yang sangat baik mengenai perkhidmatan ini. Kanak-kanak amat menyukainya.

"Ia juga membantu mereka yang kurang upaya dan sebagainya untuk tiba ke destinasi hotel," katanya.

Selain itu, pihak hotel juga menyediakan perkhidmatan menarik iaitu melakukan daftar masuk hotel di lapangan terbang.

Tidak jauh dari tempat pemeriksaan imigresen di balai ketibaan antarabangsa, satu kaunter yang membolehkan pelanggan terus melakukan daftar masuk hotel disediakan.

"Dengan itu, pelanggan tidak perlu tergesa-gesa. Ia satu perkhidmatan yang unik. Ia seakan anda sudah berada di hotel ketika anda berada di lapangan terbang lagi!" ujarnya.

http://kosmo.com.my/kosmo/pix/2008/1206/Kosmo/Rencana_Utama/ru_01.4.jpg
PEMANDANGAN indah di kolam renang.

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Gimnasium hotel pula berfungsi selama 24 jam dengan mengangkat slogan 'gimnasium yang tidak pernah tidur'.

Ditanya mengapa pihaknya menyediakan perkhidmatan berterusan selama 24 jam, Winsnes berkata, ia penting kerana faktor itulah yang membezakan hotel lapangan terbang dengan hotel biasa.

"Banyak yang berlaku dalam hotel pada setiap saat. Hotel lapangan terbang mempunyai pelanggan yang melakukan daftar masuk dan keluar yang tidak putus-putus. Di sinilah, cabaran menguruskannya berbanding hotel biasa.

"Tetamu kami juga kebanyakannya bukan orang Malaysia. Tetamu kami puratanya hanya tinggal sehari sahaja, atau setengah hari atau satu malam. Mereka tidak tinggal lama. Berbeza dengan hotel biasa yang pelanggannya menginap tiga hingga empat hari. Gimnasium perlu dibuka 24 jam kerana pelanggan-pelanggan kami mempunyai waktu tidur kelaziman yang berbeza.

"Jadi, lebih banyak perkara boleh dilakukan. Saya tidak kata ia lebih sukar untuk diuruskan tetapi ia perlu diurus dengan cara yang berlainan," jelasnya.

Hotel Pan Pacific KLIA juga dilengkapi dengan beberapa sistem canggih yang mengawal operasi hotel. Pihak hotel boleh mengesan sama ada terdapat individu di dalam bilik termasuk mempunyai sistem untuk mengetahui jika pintu bilik yang ditinggalkan tetamu tidak ditutup rapat.

"Menerusi satu sensor di luar bilik, pekerja pengemas bilik boleh mengetahui sama ada bilik itu mempunyai orang atau tidak. Selain ia lebih kepada keselamatan, pengemas bilik dapat melakukan tugasnya di bilik yang benar-benar tidak berpenghuni ketika itu," ujarnya.

http://kosmo.com.my/kosmo/pix/2008/1206/Kosmo/Rencana_Utama/ru_01.5.jpg
HANS G. WINSNES

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Selain itu, pengguna juga boleh menyatakan isyarat tidak mahu diganggu hanya dengan menekan satu punat yang terdapat pada kotak suis penghawa dingin. Pihak hotel akan sedia mengetahui kemahuan mereka. Dengan itu, pelanggan tidak perlu menggantung kenyataan Don't Disturb di luar bilik seperti sesetengah hotel yang lain.

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BINAAN luar hotel dan menara kawalan lalu lintas udara KLIA.

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Hotel ini juga menerapkan ciri mesra alam sekitar dengan mengawasi tahap suhu penghawa dingin agar bekalan elektrik dapat dijimatkan dengan sewajarnya.

"Suhu default bilik yang ditetapkan pihak hotel ialah 22 darjah Celsius. Tetapi, tetamu boleh melaraskan suhu mengikut kehendak mereka ketika menginap. Pihak hotel merakamkan suhu yang lazim digunakan pengguna bagi memahami pengguna. Cuma, apabila mereka keluar dari bilik, suhu bilik akan dinaikkan 2 darjah Celcius bagi mengurangkan penggunaan tenaga, di samping tetap menyamankan bilik.

"Dengan cara ini, kami berjaya mengurangkan 1,716 tan karbon dioksida dalam setahun," katanya.

http://kosmo.com.my/kosmo/pix/2008/1206/Kosmo/Rencana_Utama/ru_01.7.jpg
SUASANA nyaman di lobi hotel.

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Dilengkapi dengan beberapa sistem berteknologi komputer, pihak hotel memperkenalkan pelbagai perkhidmatan kad seperti Kad Komen Tetamu Elektronik (EGCC), Sistem Komputer Persekutuan (FCS) dan Vingcard.

Kad EGCC misalnya dapat menyimpan segala maklumat mengenai sejarah pelanggan dan aduan yang pernah mereka utarakan. Justeru, pihak hotel sedia mengetahui apa kehendak tetamu apabila mereka datang lagi ke hotel ini. Ia ternyata satu sistem yang pintar. Ini kerana sebagai hotel lapangan terbang, ia berpotensi mempunyai pelanggan yang berulang.

Hotel ini menawarkan 441 bilik tetamu merangkumi bilik deluxe, junior suite, eksekutif suite, deluxe suite, residential suite dan Pacific Club.

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MELAYANI tetamu dengan penuh kemesraan.

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Hotel Pan Pacific KLIA juga dilengkapi dengan pelbagai kemudahan terutamanya dari aspek bisnes seperti Internet dan kemudahan Business Centre. Terdapat 10 bilik acara dan sebuah auditorium lengkap akses Internet kelajuan tinggi yang boleh memuatkan 184 orang. Ia juga dilengkapi kolam renang, sauna, jakuzi, bilik stim dan gelanggang tenis.

rizalhakim

December 22nd, 2008, 10:30 AM

cheap xmas deco at Nikko Hotel

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rizalhakim

December 31st, 2008, 05:17 AM

PNB Darby Park terima Anugerah Lokasi Selera Terbaik

http://www.cuti.com.my/hotel/Hotelpages/Kl/pnb_darby/main.jpg
www.pnbdarbypark.com

KUALA LUMPUR: Pengiktirafan yang diterima PNB Darby Park dalam tiga bulan terakhir 2008 ini terus menjadi pemangkin dalam meneruskan perjuangan terutama mempromosi masakan Melayu.

Penolong Pengurus Eksekutif PNB Darby Park, Muhammad Taha Zainal, berkata anugerah yang diterima baru-baru ini melalui The 39 Restaurant menjadi penguat untuk meneruskan usaha mereka.

“Anugerah Lokasi Selera Terbaik yang diberikan sebuah majalah pelancongan satu pengiktirafan selari dengan matlamat mempromosi masakan Melayu di peringkat tempatan dan antarabangsa,” katanya.

Menurutnya, menyedari masakan Melayu mempunyai potensi tinggi, PNB Darby Park membuat percubaan yang mendatangkan hasil serta berjaya menambat hati peminat masakan Melayu.

Selain anugerah berkenaan, dua lagi pengiktirafan diterima PNB Darby Park adalah pensijilan MS 1900:2005 Quality Management Systems-Requirements dari Perspektif Islam oleh SIRIM QAS International pada Oktober lalu serta anugerah Top 3 Serviced Residence of The Year dan Top 5 Most Creative Asian Cuisine Chef daripada Hospitality Asia Platinum Awards (HAPA) 2008-2010 pada November lalu.

rizalhakim

January 2nd, 2009, 04:15 AM

Crowne Plaza Mutiara: No reason to be pessimistic
By Vasantha GanesanPublished: 2009/01/02

http://www.marimari.com/hotel/malaysia/hilton/kl/images/hotel.jpg

http://www.medretreat.com/templates/UserFiles/Images/Hotels/CrownPlazaKL.bmp
http://www.crowneplazakl.com

CROWNE Plaza Mutiara Kuala Lumpur's forward bookings have not been adversely affected by the slowing global economy and weakening global travel.

The hotel expects to perform satisfactorily this year with average room rates (ARR) nudging higher by five to 10 per cent and filling up some 80 per cent of its room inventory.

"I have no reason to be pessimistic (for 2009). What we have in the book is looking very positive, especially in the first quarter of 2009," general manager Thomas Schmelter said.

Schmelter's confidence stems from the hotel's guests profile, which is predominantly Malaysian, and the fact that it has already seen a six to eight per cent increase in bookings as a result of guests viewing Kuala Lumpur as a more stable nation in the region.

The hotel's popularity is also supported by it being part of the Intercontinental Hotels Group brand.

"Firstly, Malaysia is a major market. Secondly, the instability in other countries opens opportunities here in Kuala Lumpur, and that is what we are capitalising on. And this comes into play because we have such a strong brand," Schmelter said in an interview.

"We have confidence in our brand. Especially when it comes to corporate and corporate meetings. We have a Crowne Meetings Director, your one-point-of-contact who gives personalised services. This is the difference in our brand," he said.

Crowne Plaza Mutiara caters to 80 per cent business crowd, particularly in the meeting, incentive, convention and exhibition market. Forty per cent of business is from Malaysia, followed by Singapore and Australia.

The 563-room hotel expects to end 2008 with close to 80 per cent of occupancy and an ARR of around RM400 plus.

rizalhakim

January 5th, 2009, 06:53 AM

Le Meridian KL sasar kuasai 50 peratus katering luar hotel

KUALA LUMPUR 4 Jan. - Le Meridien Kuala Lumpur mahu menguasai 50 peratus, atau RM10 juta, daripada jumlah keseluruhan perniagaan perkhidmatan katering luar hotel dalam tempoh tiga tahun lagi, sekali gus menjadi peneraju dalam industri berkenaan.

Pengarah Le Meridien Kuala Lumpur (Perkhidmatan Mesyuarat dan Majlis), Fauzy Wahab (gambar) berkata, beliau yakin hotel itu mampu mencapai sasaran tersebut kerana peluang dalam perniagaan itu semakin luas meskipun ia merupakan industri baru.

''Kita bukan sahaja sudah cukup bersedia untuk meneroka peluang dalam perniagaan ini, malah mahu menjadi pusat sehenti dalam perniagaan katering,'' katanya kepada Utusan Malaysia di sini baru-baru ini.

Menurut beliau, setakat ini segmen perniagaan itu hanya menyumbang peratusan kecil kepada pendapatan hotel tersebut.

Bagaimanapun, sekiranya sasaran awal itu tercapai, perniagaan berkenaan diramal mampu memberi sumbangan yang signifikan kepada Le Meridien.

Tahun lalu, perniagaan katering hotel tersebut mencatatkan jualan sebanyak RM1 juta.

''Walaupun kecil tetapi ia amat membanggakan memandangkan kami adalah peserta baru dalam industri katering hotel,'' ujarnya.

Fauzy berkata, sejak memulakan perniagaan tersebut empat tahun lalu, Le Meridien telah mencatatkan pertumbuhan perniagaan sebanyak 50 peratus.

Antara pelanggan katering Le Meridien ialah istana, kedutaan dan korporat.

Beliau berkata, sektor korporat dan sosial akan memberi sumbangan ketara dalam perniagaan kateringnya dalam tempoh tiga tahun lagi.

Ditanya keistimewaan katering Le Meridien, Fauzy berkata, perkhidmatan yang diberikan tidak terhad dan apa yang pasti perkhidmatannya setaraf dengan kedudukannya sebagai hotel berprestij.

''Kami amat mementingkan imej serta kualiti dan yang pasti kami akan membawa 'hotel' ke rumah pelanggan,'' ujarnya.

Paling istimewa, penyediaan makanan yang ditempah tidak dikendalikan oleh tukang masak ballroom tetapi chef restoran-restorannya.

Fauzy berkata, katering Le Meridien menawarkan perkhidmatan penyediaan makanan sehingga 2,000 orang pada satu-satu masa dengan pakej minimum RM100 seorang.

Antara menu yang ditawarkan ialah makanan barat, bufet, koktel, minum petang dan barbeku.

rizalhakim

January 5th, 2009, 10:14 AM

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rizalhakim

January 7th, 2009, 03:51 AM

Bungalow turned into a mini hotel
Wednesday December 24, 2008
Story and photos by STUART MICHAEL

http://thestar.com.my/archives/2008/12/24/central/m_01bungalow.jpg

http://thestar.com.my/archives/2008/12/24/central/m_02lounge.jpg

Nice: The lounge area.

THE owner of a bungalow in Jalan Desa 6/7 at Phase Six in Bandar Country Homes, Rawang, has turned it into a mini hotel.

The bungalow is in a secluded end of the residential road which comprises only bungalows.

StarMetro visited the place following a tip-off from residents and found that there is no signboard indicating that it is a hotel or has rooms for rent.

The place is completely walled, with its entrance sealed by a metal gate. No one looking at it from the outside would suspect it is a hotel.

http://thestar.com.my/archives/2008/12/24/central/m_02class.jpg

Cosy: The dining area

The hotel operator has also advertised it on a website www.chateau.com.my, offering Internet booking for its 10 rooms, with rental from RM120 to RM200 a night.

The rooms are well furnished like those of a three-star hotel. There are also function rooms, a pool stable, a bar and lounge area with dart games and a place for viewing football matches.

When a worker was asked whether the bungalow had any “special” functions, he didn’t want to say much.

http://thestar.com.my/archives/2008/12/24/central/m_02dining.jpg

Well laid out: The common dining area.

However, according to the worker, the owner is a Singaporean and the owner’s wife is the one running the place.

The worker also said the bungalow could cater for private functions of up to about 100 people at any one time.

According to Selayang Municipal Council (MPS) public relations director Mohd Zin Masaod, a hotel cannot be located at a residential area.

“In fact, we were tipped off by the public last week and will investigate this matter. As far as we are concerned, the hotel is illegal,” Zin said.

“Previously, the bungalow owner did not follow building by-laws and we have issued him a few compounds.

“Now he has turned his bungalow into a boarding place and renting out rooms,’’ he said.

MPS blitz on bungalow hotel
Story and photo by STUART MICHAEL

THE Selayang Municipal Council (MPS) has slapped a RM12,500 fine on the owner of a bungalow in Bandar Country Homes in Rawang for using it as a hotel since August last year.

The owner has been ordered to stop operations with immediate effect.

The bungalow hotel is located in a residential area in Phase Six, Bandar Country Homes.

StarMetro had reported on Dec 24 that the mini hotel had 10 rooms for rent. The operator had placed an advertisement on the Internet inviting guests to book rooms.

Recently, about 50 MPS enforcement officers raided the bungalow hotel, seizing items in the premises.

According to MPS Safety and Enforcement director Ahmad Faisal Badiuzaman, the owner has been told to stop operations immediately or else the council will take sterner action like sealing the place.

The owner, who is disabled, pleaded with the enforcement officers to give her time to get things organised.

MPS councillor Gurdip Kaur, who was at the scene, told the MPS enforcement officers to give the owner some time.

“Since the owner is a disabled person, we will give her about three months. However, she is not above the law and must abide by it,” she said.

“The owner said that she is applying for government permission to convert the premises to a home-stay unit,’’ Gurdip said.

nazrey

January 10th, 2009, 06:37 AM

http://www.cuti.com.my/hotel/Hotelpages/Kl/pacificregency/main.jpg

Lunar bar @ The top tower

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v608/nazrey/4556jh.jpg

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rizalhakim

January 13th, 2009, 06:11 AM

^^tak sejuk ke swimming kat rooftop...

rizalhakim

January 13th, 2009, 06:11 AM

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nazrey

February 1st, 2009, 07:02 AM

Mandarin Oriental Kuala Lumpur Hotel
by Samhan
http://www.flickr.com/photos/alsamhan/3235300389/in/set-72157613070072949/

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3501/3235300389_6eb2a3caaf_b.jpg

patchay

February 2nd, 2009, 08:38 AM

HOTELS & SHORT-TERM RESIDENCES
KUALA LUMPUR - PETALING JAYA - SHAH ALAM - PUTRAJAYA - KLIA
() indicates hotel managed by an International World Class Hotel/Resorts Chain or Alliance

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3497/3200959603_bb91e0db4d_o.jpg

5 Star/Luxury Class
---

1. Carcosa Seri Negara
2. Crown Princess Kuala Lumpur
3. Crowne Plaza Hotel Kuala Lumpur (InterContinental Group)
4. Grand BlueWave Hotel Shah Alam
5. Grand Millennium Kuala Lumpur (Millennium & Copthorne Hotels Group)
6. Hilton Kuala Lumpur (Hilton Group)
7. Holiday Inn Glenmarie Kuala Lumpur (InterContinental Group)
8. Holiday Villa Hotel & Suites Subang
9. Hotel Equatorial Kuala Lumpur
10. Hotel Equatorial Bangi-Putrajaya
11. Hotel Istana Kuala Lumpur (Summit Hotels Group)
12. Hotel Nikko Kuala Lumpur (JAL Hotels Group)
13. JW Marriott Kuala Lumpur (Marriott Group)
14. Le Meridien Kuala Lumpur (Starwood Group)
15. Mandarin Oriental Kuala Lumpur (Mandarin Oriental Group)
16. One World Hotel Petaling Jaya
17. Palace Of Golden Horses @ Mines Resort City
18. Pan Pacific Kuala Lumpur International Airport (Pan Pacific Group)
19. Parkroyal Kuala Lumpur
20. Parkview Luxury Suites KLCC
21. Prince Hotel & Residence Kuala Lumpur (Prince Hotels of Japan)
22. Pullman Putrajaya Lakeside (Accor Hotels Group)
23. Putrajaya Marriott Hotel (Marriott Group)
24. Putrajaya Shangri-La (Shangri-La Group)
25. Renaissance Kuala Lumpur Hotel (Marriott Group)
26. Shangri-La Hotel Kuala Lumpur (Shangri-La Group)
27. Sheraton Imperial Kuala Lumpur (Starwood Group)
28. Sheraton Subang Hotels & Towers (Starwood Group)
29. Sunway Resort Hotel & Spa
30. The Ascott Kuala Lumpur (The Ascott Group of Singapore)
31. The Gardens Hotel & Residences @ Mid Valley City
32. The Ritz-Carlton Kuala Lumpur (Ritz-Carlton Group)
33. The Royale Chulan Hotel Kuala Lumpur
34. The Saujana Kuala Lumpur
35. The Westin Kuala Lumpur (Starwood Group)

4 Star/Business Class
---

1. Berjaya Times Square Hotel & Convention Center
2. Best Western Premier Seri Pacific (Best Western Group)
3. Boulevard Hotel @ Mid Valley City
4. Cititel Mid Valley
5. Concorde Hotel KL
6. Concorde Hotel Shah Alam
7. Concorde Inn KLIA
8. Cyberview Lodge Resort @ Cyberjaya
9. Eastin Hotel Petaling Jaya
10. Flamingo by the Lake @ Ampang
11. Grand Seasons Hotel Kuala Lumpur
12. Hilton Petaling Jaya (Hilton Group)
13. Hotel Maya Kuala Lumpur
14. Impiana KLCC Hotel & Spa
15. Lanson Place Ambassador Row Serviced Residences
16. Maytower Hotel and Serviced Apartments
17. Melia Kuala Lumpur (Sol Melia Hotels of Spain)
18. Novotel Kuala Lumpur City Centre (Accor Hotels Group)
19. Pacific Regency Hotel Suites
20. Palace Beach Resort & Spa @ Mines Resort City
21. Palm Garden Hotel IOI Resort @ Putrajaya
22. Piccolo Hotel Kuala Lumpur
23. PNB Darby Park Executive Suites
24. (Sunway) Pyramid Suites & Studios
25. (Sunway) Pyramid Tower Hotel
26. Radius International Hotel Kuala Lumpur
27. Somerset Seri Bukit Ceylon Residences (The Ascott Group of Singapore)
28. Swiss Garden Hotel Kuala Lumpur
29. The Coronade Hotel Kuala Lumpur
30. The Federal Hotel Kuala Lumpur
31. The Legend Hotel Kuala Lumpur
32. The Nomad Sucasa Serviced Residence
33. The Royale Bintang Kuala Lumpur
34. The Royale Bintang Damansara
35. The ZON All Suites Residences on the Park
36. Traders Hotel Kuala Lumpur (Shangri-La Group)

3.5 Star
---

1. Ancasa Hotel & Spa Kuala Lumpur
2. Citrus Hotel KL
3. Corus Hotel Kuala Lumpur (Corus Hotels of England)
4. Crystal Crown Hotel Petaling Jaya
5. Dorsett Regency Hotel Kuala Lumpur
6. Dynasty Hotel Kuala Lumpur
7. Hotel Capitol Kuala Lumpur
8. Pearl International Hotel
9. Quality Hotel City Centre Kuala Lumpur (Choice Hotels International)
10. The Maple Suite Kuala Lumpur
11. The Plaza Hotel Kuala Lumpur
12. Vistana Hotel Kuala Lumpur

2 to 3 Star
---

1. Alpha Genesis Hotel
2. Bintang Warisan Hotel
3. Brisdale Hotel Kuala Lumpur
4. Citin Hotel Pudu Kuala Lumpur
5. Cititel Express Kuala Lumpur
6. Corona Inn Kuala Lumpur
7. D'Oriental Inn Chinatown
8. Grand Pacific Hotel
9. Holiday Villa Apartment Suites
10. Hotel Agora
11. Hotel City Villa
12. Hotel Grand Central
13. Hotel Grand Continental KL
14. Hotel Malaya
15. Hotel Midah
16. Hotel Noble Jalan Tunku Abdul Rahman
17. Hotel Nova
18. Leo Palace Hotel Jalan Ipoh
19. Mandarin Court Hotel
20. Prescott Inn Kuala Lumpur
21. Puteri Park Hotel
22. Swiss Inn Kuala Lumpur Chinatown
23. The Heritage (Railway) Station Hotel
24. Wira Hotel

Budget
---

1. Bestotel Hotel
2. Hotel Chinatown 2
3. Replica Inn Chinatown
4. Swiss Hotel Jalan Tunku Abdul Rahman
5. Tune Hotel.com Downtown Kuala Lumpur
6. Winsin Hotel Chinatown

Hotels opening in 2009
---

1. Pullman Putrajaya Lakeside (5 star)
2. The Gardens Hotel & Residences @ Mid Valley City (5 star)
3. The Royale Chulan Hotel Kuala Lumpur (5 star)
4. The MiCasa All Suite Hotel (5 star)
5. Rendezvous Hotel Kuala Lumpur (4 star)
6. Fraser Place Kuala Lumpur (4 star)
7. Tune Hotel.com LCCT (budget)

Hotels planned
---

1. The Regent KL
2. The Ritz-Carlton Residences KL
3. St. Regis Hotel & Residences KL
4. Four Seasons Hotel & Residences KL
5. Grand Hyatt KLCC
6. Millennium Residence
7. Eastern & Oriental Hotel KL
8. D'Tiara Hotel Suites KL Sentral
9. Palace Residence Suites
10. LATEST: Swiss-Belhotel Suites & Residences, Mont’ Kiara, Kuala Lumpur (2011)

My International Hotels Wishlist for KL: () indicates nearest hotel
---

W Hotel KL (W Bangkok)

Conrad KL (Conrad Singapore, Bangkok)

The Peninsula KL (The Peninsula Bangkok, Manila)

InterContinental KL (InterContinental Singapore, Bangkok, Manila, Jakarta)

St. Regis KL (St. Regis Singapore, Shanghai)

Four Seasons KL (Four Seasons Singapore, Bangkok, Jakarta)

Grand Hyatt KL (Grand Hyatt Singapore, Bangkok, Manila, Jakarta)

Park Hyatt KL (Park Hyatt Saigon)

Sofitel KL (Sofitel Singapore, Bangkok, Manila, Jakarta)

The Marque KL (The Marque Sydney)

Stamford Plaza KL (Stamford Plaza Sydney)

Jumeirah Hotel KL (Jumeirah Shanghai, Guangzhou)

Ramada KL (Ramada Bangkok, Hong Kong)

Meritus KL (Meritus Mandarin Singapore)

Kempinski KL (Kempinski Bangkok, Jakarta, Shenzhen)

Movenpick KL (Movenpick Hanoi)

Dusit Thani KL (Dusit Thani Bangkok, Manila)

Raffles KL (Swissotel Singapore, Bangkok, Shanghai)

Mercure Hotel KL (Grand Mercure Singapore, Bangkok, Jakarta)

Pan Pacific Serviced Suites KL (Pan Pacific Suites Singapore, Bangkok)

for reference...

rizalhakim

February 3rd, 2009, 03:12 AM

Hotel Imperial is now Sheraton Imperial
Published: 2009/02/03

STARWOOD has decided to revert to the name Sheraton Imperial Kuala Lumpur for its hotel on Jalan Sultan Ismail, beginning January 1.

The name Sheraton Imperial was used between 1998 and December 2007. Following a RM50 million makeover, Starwood decided to rebrand the hotel as a lifestyle Luxury Collection and adopted the name Hotel Imperial from January 1 2008.

Interestingly, when the hotel first opened in 1997, it was also positioned as a Luxury Collection Hotel Imperial. Later in 1998, the hotel was renamed Sheraton Imperial. The hotel was then owned by US-based ITT Sheraton and Faber Group Bhd.

Today, the hotel is jointly owned by Indonesia's Rajawali group and Starwood Hotels and Resorts.

Sheraton Imperial general manager Wolfgang Boettcher said that rebranding the hotel as a five-star Sheraton best reflects its positioning and target market.

"There are several reasons why we are now a Sheraton. Most importantly, this hotel fits the Sheraton brand the most. The environment and the market is suited for a Sheraton," Boettcher told Business Times in an interview.

"In major cities like Sydney and Tokyo, where we (Starwood) have an interest (stake) it is always a Sheraton brand," he said.

"Moreover, Sheraton Imperial brand is very established," Boettcher said. He added that after a year's experience as a Luxury Collection, Starwood realised that it was better suited to be a Sheraton.

The rebranding exercise is expected to cost US$200,000 (RM722,000) including providing Link@Sheraton - a facility incorporating items like computer terminals and Internet access, Microsoft webcams, televisions and daily newspapers.

He dismissed speculation that the name change could have been due to the brand not garnering the high room rates which other Luxury Collections are able to. He said that it was more of a destination problem as opposed to a brand problem.

When asked about the performance in the current year, Boettcher said that it was difficult to forecast. Nevertheless, he is hopeful that the Sheraton brand name will bring in the business.

"Sheraton offers a greater opportunity (to tap) into the leisure and family market," Boettcher said.

The hotel also hopes to tap into the corporate segment which may now have reduced their spending to a strong brand which is priced competitively.

"Based on our expectations, we are doing very well," he said.

rizalhakim

February 3rd, 2009, 03:54 AM

Low rates for anniversary

http://arizaldi.files.wordpress.com/2008/02/ancasa-hotel.jpg

ANCASA Hotel & Spa, Kuala Lumpur is all generosity as it turns 10 this year by rolling back room rate prices to the time it first opened in 1999.

The 10th Year Anniversary Madness celebration offers all Malaysians rooms at RM99 nett a night from now till Feb 5.

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Hotel turns 10: Part of the lobby area at Ancasa Hotel & Spa.

By simply mentioning the wishline “Happy 10th anniversary Ancasa” when placing reservations, patrons would get to enjoy a stay in the hotel’s contemporary standard room at the old rate, said senior general manager Syed Nazri Syed Kamaruzaman.

The celebration also includes the “Anniversary Ambush Saturday Hi-Tea” offering guests a choice of mouth-watering delights at an unbelieveably low price of RM10++ per person.

From cendol to Chicken Sharwarma, Mee Bandung to waffles with syrup, it’s food galore at Saffron Brasserie.

For reservations or enquiries, call 03-20266060 or log on to www.ancasa-hotel.com.

rizalhakim

February 12th, 2009, 04:55 AM

Memori indah di Dorsett Regency
Habiskan waktu anda bersama si dia di Hotel Dorsett Regency Kuala Lumpur untuk hujung minggu yang romantis.
http://www.dorsettregency.com.my/

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MASIH tercari-cari lokasi ideal untuk seseorang yang istimewa? Hotel Dorsett Regency Kuala Lumpur mungkin lokasi yang sesuai untuk anda yang mahu meraikan insan tersayang sempena Hari Kekasih dalam suasana penuh romantik.

Bagaimanakah cara untuk anda berdua memahat memori paling indah kali ini? Mulakan kembara beli-belah yang eksklusif di pusat beli-belah berprestij berhampiran hotel tersebut.

Pasti si dia gembira dengan hadiah yang diidam-idamkan selama ini yang dibeli sama ada di pusat beli-belah Pavilion, Star Hill, Lot 10, Sungei Wang, BB Plaza, Berjaya Times Square atau Plaza Low Yat. Anda juga boleh membawa si dia ke Menara Berkembar KLCC dan Menara Kuala Lumpur.

Apakah aktiviti seterusnya selepas membeli-belah? Apa kata anda menghabiskan waktu anda untuk bersama si dia di Hotel Dorsett Regency Kuala Lumpur pada cuti hujung minggu yang romantis ini.

Dorsett Regency menyediakan bilik Deluxe untuk penginapan yang selesa dengan pelbagai kemudahan.

Sebelum ke kafe Checker untuk makan malam, segarkan diri anda di tab mandi yang dihiasi dengan taburan kelopak bunga mawar dan lilin beraroma. Meriahkan makan malam yang romantis bersama si dia sambil disimbahi cahaya lilin dalam suasana tenang tanpa gangguan.

Mahu beri kejutan buat si dia? Ya, hadiahkan kepadanya sejambak bunga mawar dan sekotak coklat. Itu sudah cukup membuatkan si dia berasa begitu dihargai. Sebelum menikmati makan malam, rakamkan detik terindah anda berdua di lensa kamera.

Enam set makan malam dengan menu Barat pasti cukup mengenyangkan. Anda akan dihidangkan dengan pembuka selera daripada kekapis, udang dan cendawan, diikuti sup cendawan bukit dengan ginseng dan kekacang serta serbat limau.

Anda mempunyai pilihan sama ada memilih bebiri atau ikan kerapu daripada menu utama. Akhiri makan malam anda yang romantis dengan pencuci mulut seperti kek keju, coklat praline dan pilihan kopi atau teh.

Selain itu, alami gaya trendy, chic, menenangkan dan berkeyakinan di bilik Deluxe Dorsett Regency yang moden. Antara kemudahan yang ditawarkan di bilik itu ialah akses Internet dengan kelajuan yang tinggi dan TV LCD dengan paparan skrin rata. Hotel ini terletak di pusat komersial dan perniagaan di kawasan segi tiga emas Bukit Bintang serta Bintang Walk.

Ia dilengkapi dengan kemudahan pusat perniagaan, enam dewan gimnasium dan kolam mandi. Hotel tiga bintang itu juga menyediakan hidangan tempatan dan antarabangsa yang terdiri daripada selera Asia, Itali, Asia Barat yang boleh dinikmati di kafe Checker, restoran Itali Cellini, Lounge Window serta kafe Sidewalk.

Jika terasa lapar pada waktu tengah malam dan malas untuk keluar, Dorsett Regency menyediakan perkhidmatan menempah makanan yang dihantar ke bilik selama 24 jam. Anda boleh memilih pelbagai menu yang disediakan seperti sandwic, makanan bercita rasa Malaysia, nasi lemak, bihun goreng, nasi goreng, makanan Barat seperti spageti, chicken cop, fish and cips, minuman, pencuci mulut dan sebagainya.

Pakej Menginap dan Makan Malam di hotel ini untuk setiap pasangan ialah RM448++ dengan komplimentari seperti:

- Bilik Deluxe untuk dua orang dengan sarapan bufet di kafe Checkers.
- Enam set makan malam makanan Barat di kafe Checkers

- Jus tanpa had
- Sekotak coklat praline
- Sejambak bunga mawar
- Sebatang cerut
- Sekeping gambar bersama pasangan yang dibingkaikan
- Peluang memenangi cincin berlian, komplimentari menginap di hotel dan baucer minuman.

Pakej tersebut hanya sah untuk penginapan satu malam bilik Deluxe pada 14 Febuari 2009 sahaja.

Ia tidak sah digabungkan untuk lain-lain tawaran promosi, penginapan berkumpulan atau mesyuarat.

Anda juga mempunyai pilihan untuk pakej eksklusif makan malam Hari Kekasih tanpa penginapan di kafe Checker pada harga RM328++ bagi setiap pasangan.

Maklumat lanjut, hubungi Hotel Dorsett Regency Kuala Lumpur di talian 603-2715 1000 sambungan 188.

rizalhakim

March 5th, 2009, 05:19 AM

ancasa hotel puduraya

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rizalhakim

March 5th, 2009, 06:44 AM

the KLsentral 1st luxury hotels

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rizalhakim

March 5th, 2009, 07:00 AM

Millennium hotel

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rizalhakim

March 25th, 2009, 04:14 AM

Dusit plans five-star hotel in KL
Written by Yong Min Wei
Wednesday, 25 March 2009 00:40

BANGKOK: Dusit International, the largest independent Thai-owned hotel chain, plans to open a five-star hotel in Kuala Lumpur within the next three years as part of its expansion drive within the region.

Its global director of sales, Simon Burgess, said Dusit International already had a hotel property in Manila and was in the midst of looking for suitable locations to open its maiden outlets in Kuala Lumpur, Singapore and Hong Kong.

He said Dusit International, with its Thai essence and Asian affinity, would not want to miss out on opportunities to have hotel properties in every major Asian city, adding that Malaysia was among the market it was looking at due its close proximity and strong tourism industry.

“We would love to have a property in Kuala Lumpur. If you have something, please let us know,” he told an international media delegation in Bangkok recently.

Burgess said Dusit International, which operates five-star accommodation under Dusit Thani Hotels and Resorts, has an extensive development team that studies the possibility of having new hotels overseas.

He noted that although there was yet to be serious negotiations for its plan in Kuala Lumpur, Dusit International’s recent success in setting foot in Dubai as well as Cairo would further spur its interest in neighbouring Malaysia in an effort to brand itself in the region.

“We will also be opening four properties in India next year,” Burgess said.

Dusit International also has a variety of categories for accommodation which include the four-star Dusit Princess Hotels and Resorts as well as serviced apartments under Dusit Residence.

He said Dusit International currently had a total of 37 hotel and resort properties, with 16 in Thailand, noting that the hotel chain planned to have up to 50 properties in the next five to 10 years as envisaged by its founder Thanpuying Chanut Piyaoui.

According to Burgess, Dusit International’s current strategy is to actively push its sales in the meetings, incentives, conventions and exhibitions (MICE) market, both locally and abroad.

“We are now focusing on the corporate market more than ever before,” he said.

He added that Dusit International’s operations in Thailand had recorded very good hotel room occupancy in 2008 but current year projection was much more conservative due to the global financial crisis.

Despite the challenging years of 2009 and 2010, Dusit International would continue to build a strong market base and leverage on its almost five decades of experience in the hotel industry.

“We would continue to participate in key trade shows and to strengthen our global distribution network,” he stressed.

rizalhakim

April 3rd, 2009, 09:14 AM

TOP three budget hotels

http://www.nst.com.my/Streets/Friday/Stories/20090403005807/insidepix1
D' Oriental Inn

http://www.nst.com.my/Streets/Friday/Stories/20090403005807/insidepix2?display=xsmall
Tune Hotel

http://www.nst.com.my/Streets/Friday/Stories/20090403005807/insidepix3?display=xsmall
YMCA Brickfields

1.D’Oriental Inn is located in the heart of Kuala Lumpur’s Chinatown. The hotel is also surrounded by hawker stalls and food courts featuring authentic local fare.

2.If you are on a tight budget but still want to stay in the city centre, Tune Hotel offers the best value for your money. The hotel is in Jalan Tunku Abdul Rahman.

3.Located opposite KL Sentral, YMCA Brickfields is the most convenient budget hotel for any traveller. Don’t worry about food as the hostel is near many eateries and stalls offering food at reasonable prices.

rizalhakim

April 7th, 2009, 07:01 AM

Proud moment for Pan Pacific KLIA

PAN Pacific Kuala Lumpur International Airport was awarded the BrandLaureate 2008-2009 for Product Branding under the Airport Hotel category.

Former prime minister Tun Abdullah Ahmad Badawi presented the award to the hotel during the awards ceremony recently.

Presented by the Asia Pacific Brands Foundation (APBF), the BrandLaureate honours branding excellence among multinationals, public listed and government-linked companies in Malaysia and the Asia Pacific region.

In selecting Pan Pacific Kuala Lumpur International Airport for the award, the APBF noted the hotel’s ability in “displaying best branding practices that have assisted in the development of the organisation’s growth.”

A big boost: Winsnes (fourth from left) with some of the Pan Pacific Kuala Lumpur International Airport Hotel team after receiving the award.

Pan Pacific KLIA general manager Hans Winsnes said: “Our consistency and commitment to providing the best services by an airport hotel has resulted in our hotel being at the top of the minds of business travellers. It is our desire that the Pan Pacific brand be synonymous with service excellence in an airport hotel.”

Pan Pacific KLIA is owned by KL Airport Hotel Sdn Bhd, a subsidiary of Malaysia Airports.

Malaysia Airports was also recognised by APBF with the BrandLaureate award for KLIA, Corporate Branding - Best Brands in Transportation.

This is the third time that Malaysia Airports has won this award.

rizalhakim

April 13th, 2009, 05:28 AM

Maxims Genting suites the choice of those who demand the best
By OH ING YEEN

LIVE in the lap of luxury when you choose to stay in the Maxims Genting residences or suites.

Boasting impeccable service and deluxe amenities and promising to deliver the highest level of personalised services, the Maxims Club, Suites and Residences is the choice of those who desire sophistication and uncompromised luxury.

Exclusivity is ensured as membership is by invitation only. Some of the floors are accessible only by the guests staying there using designated cards, so that privacy is ensured.

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Cosy: The comfortable king-size bed with soft feather pillows makes for blissful sleep.

Designed to be fit for a king, the luxurious suites and residences are also the accommodation of choice of visiting VIPs or VVIPS, such as foreign diplomats or even celebrities.

A group of journalists were recently invited to stay a night in the Maxims Suite.

The Maxims Suites, each measuring 700 square feet (65.03 sq m), exude comfort and class while offering ample space for both work and relaxation.

Each of the tastefully decorated suites is equipped with a computer with broadband and Internet facilities, 42-inch (106.7cm) Plasma TV set with surround sound, a mini bar, coffee- and tea-making facilities, and a spacious walk-in wardrobe.

Guests, especially businessmen, would appreciate the computing facility which comes with a 17-inch (43.2cm) LCD monitor and four-in-one printer (printer, fax, scanner and copier).

Even showertime is enjoyable as the spacious bathroom includes a shower area, a large bathtub, premium toiletries and a 15-inch (38.1cm) TV set so that you can enjoy your favourite movie while soaking in the bath.

The comfortable and inviting king-size bed with soft feather pillows makes bed time a bliss. An interesting and thoughtful feature is the pillow menu, which allows guests to choose from seven types of pillows.

This is particularly helpful for those who have trouble accustoming to sleeping in hotels or those with allergies. For instance, the Royal Cotton Pillow is made from hand-stuffed cotton in a baking soda washed cotton shell that is suitable for guests with allergies.

It was also a delight to return to the room at night and be greeted with a tray of delectable chocolates.

Other facilities and amenities include a DVD library (available for loan), complimentary buffet breakfast and evening cocktail, daily complimentary fruit platter, daily complimentary newspapers and laundry/dry cleaning service, among others.

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Bath-time luxury: Watch your favourite movie while you have a nice soak in the tub.

Another feature is the 24-hour butler service, so when the computer malfunctioned at 8am, I rang for the butler. In less than 10 minutes, the well-mannered butler was at my door with my complimentary newspaper, and with a few clicks, the computer was as good as new.

The downside of staying in the suite is probably the fact that one would have too little time to enjoy all the facilities and comfort it offers, as most guests would only return to their rooms after a long day exploring all the other attractions that Genting has to offer.

Room rates range from RM1,200 to RM35,000, depending on the type of room and whether it is low or peak season.

For more information on room rates and list of facilities, log on to www.maxims.com.my or call 03-2718 1133.

rizalhakim

April 13th, 2009, 10:51 AM

Luxury brands set to raise Malaysia's profile
Published: 2009/04/13

Kuala Lumpur is on the shopping list of luxury brands in the likes of Four Seasons, St Regis and now Raffles - a welcome move for Malaysia to rid itself of the cheap destination tag.

The presence of these regal brands will help raise Malaysia's profile, improve service standards and room rates.

With the exception of possibly Langkawi, Malaysia is touted to have one of the world's lowest hotel room rates.

As market leaders, these prestigious hotels position themselves at a certain level which enables other hotels to follow suit and lift the bar for hotel rates.

"They help push room rates higher, which will be difficult to do without them ... and they help improve yield," Malaysian Association of Hotels (MAH) president Datuk Mohd Ilyas Zainol Abidin told Business Times.

Four Seasons Resort Langkawi's presence on the island, Mohd Ilyas said, helped to set a standard and boost the average room rate (ARR) of hotels there.

IIyas reckons that rates could be hiked by at least a quarter compared with current rates by five-star hotels of around US$120 (RM434) per night.

This provides the opportunity for other hotels to up their rates by between 10 per cent and 15 per cent.

Based on the hotel data from MIHR Consulting Sdn Bhd, Kuala Lumpur's rate leader is Mandarin Oriental, with an ARR of over RM600. Almost all other five-star hotels are below RM500 per night.

It has been a tough journey for Malaysian hoteliers since the 1997 crisis, as it took them seven years to start raising rates to current levels.

Hotels here are adopting a slightly different approach this global crisis, they do not plan to cut rates. Once rates fall, it is hard to raise them.

Instead, rates are maintained by value adding. Perks like breakfast, free Internet service, drop-offs and pick-ups are thrown in.

Mohd Ilyas added that big brands in Malaysia will bring in a new kind of business into the market.

"It positions Malaysia differently," he said.

Service will be at par with the premium they charge and the people employed are of a different caliber, he said.

Developer of Four Seasons Place in Kuala Lumpur Tan Sri Syed Yusof Syed Nasir is looking to net a 30 per cent higher ARR than the city-wide ARR when it opens in 2012.

"Four Seasons is a rate leader, the rate could be about RM800 per night," said Syed Yusof, who is chairman of Venus Assets Sdn Bhd, the hotel developer.

Meanwhile, the 200-room St. Regis Kuala Lumpur, a Starwood Hotels & Resorts brand, is expected to open at KL Sentral in 2014.

The owner, One IFC Sdn Bhd, were quoted as saying that it believes Kuala Lumpur is ready for the luxury brand.

As for Raffles Hotels & Resorts, sources say that its opening could be as early as 2011. And what other high-end hotel brands will Malaysia like to welcome?

Mohd Ilyas would love to see brands like Amanresorts, Banyan Tree and Bvlgari Hotels and Resorts as they cater to niche markets. - By Vasantha Ganesan

rizalhakim

April 14th, 2009, 04:14 AM

Big makeover for Pan Pacific KLIA when it turns 13
By Vasantha GanesanPublished: 2009/04/14
http://www.panpacific.com/KLairport/Overview.html

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BEING part of the main gateway into Malaysia means not just creating first impressions but lasting ones.

Airport hotel, Pan Pacific KLIA, which probably has more foreigners walking through its doors daily compared to any other hotels in the country, has the task of maintaining its allure.

To this end, this five-star property is preparing for its first major upgrade, of up to RM70 million, when it turns 13 in two years.

The hotel, built at an estimated RM160 million, is owned by Malaysia Airports Holdings Bhd (MAHB) via KL Airport Hotel Sdn Bhd and is operated by Singapore- owned Pan Pacific Hotels & Resorts.

General manager Hans G Winsnes said that it is looking at a total upgrade of all 441-rooms and the public area.

As the hotel operator, Pan Pacific has put together a preliminary plan which will then be forwarded to MAHB for approval.

The hotel, which had its last refurbishment exercise in 2006, will upgrade its hotel to best suit its guest profile.

Also, this is in line with the hotel having to live up to the various accolades that have been showered upon it ranging from Asia's Best Airport Hotel to World's Leading Airport Hotel.

Winsnes said that the hotel's style when designed in the 1990s was suitable then.

"A major renovation budget has been projected for 2011-2012. Depending on the design, we are looking at a investment of RM50 million to RM70 million," Winsnes told Business Times.

Typically, a hotel undergoes a major renovation every seven to 10 years to keep it fresh and continue to appeal its target audience.

Pan Pacific KLIA's business to leisure split is 55-45. Due to its location, 80 per cent of the hotel guests are foreigners with the largest group coming from the UK and Australia.

On its performance this year, Winsnes said that the hotel will churn out similar revenue as in 2008 - its best performing year - although it expects to fill fewer rooms this year. Revenue in 2008 was RM65.3 million and a gross operating profit of RM21.55 million.

World air travel is expected to decline this year and Malaysia is anticipating a 9 per cent drop in arrivals to some 20 million coming through the 260 entry points in Malaysia.

Pan Pacific is expecting average occupancy to decline to just over 60 per cent in 2009 from 65.7 per cent in 2008. This does not include short-stayers (less than one night). It hopes to hold the average room rate at last year's level of RM355 per night.

How will it manage to maintain revenue and profit although occupancy is down?

"In anticipation of a lower activity level, the hotel will be prudent in recruitment of personnel, proactive in energy saving and contracting of outsourced facility," Winsnes said.

rizalhakim

April 22nd, 2009, 04:44 AM

Impiana KLCC Hotel Still Gets High Occupancy Rate

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KUALA LUMPUR, April 21 (Bernama) -- Impiana KLCC Hotel and Spa has yet to feel the pinch from the current global economic slowdown as it is still able to attract a high occupancy rate.

Its marketing communications manager Francine E. Thomas said today that for this month, the hotel was likely to register an 80 percent occupancy rate.

"For May and June, we have received a quite satisfactory amount of reservations," she told Bernama after a food review here today.

To attract more business, Impiana KLCC would continue to invest in advertising and promotions unlike some of its competitors but at a manageable cost, Francine said.

In addition, the hotel would launch a series of monthly promotions to attract a bigger crowd, she said.

On expansion, Francine said Impiana KLCC, which has 335 rooms, was looking at opening a new fine-dining restaurant by end of this year.

At the food review, the hotel unveiled its latest promotion called "Biz Talk", a lunch buffet which is targeted at customers wishing to have short business discussions and quick meals over lunch.

Starting from this month, the buffet lunch, priced from RM28, will be on for two months at the hotel's Oswego Bar Wine.

-- BERNAMA

nazrey

April 22nd, 2009, 07:42 AM

The Ascott
by Stoncel
http://www.flickr.com/photos/stoncel/3464836126/in/photostream/

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rizalhakim

April 24th, 2009, 04:50 AM

Novotel Hydro Majestic Hotel put up for sale
By Vasantha GanesanPublished: 2009/04/24

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Hotel operator and property developer Pulai Springs Bhd has put its two-year-old Novotel Hydro Majestic Hotel in Kuala Lumpur up for sale, sources say.

It is believed that the owners are asking an estimated RM200 million for the four-star 291-room hotel located along Jalan Kia Peng, a stone's throw from the iconic Petronas Twin Towers.

According to sources, Pulai Springs has received several offers for the hotel.

One source said that the Johor-based company had in fact identified a buyer. Pulai Springs officials could not be contacted for confirmation.

It is also unclear why it wants to sell the property. It is probably trying to cut debt. Its current liabilities, or what it needs to pay in a year, stood at RM193.6 million as at December 31 2008. In contrast, its current assets amounted to RM71.4 million.

rizalhakim

April 28th, 2009, 04:34 AM

Grand Millennium banking on better cost control, efficiency
By Vasantha GanesanPublished: 2009/04/28

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AFTER a bumper 2008, the hotel industry is expecting business to slow down this year.

As a fairly new five-star brand in Kuala Lumpur, Grand Millennium may face far more challenges than its more established competitors.

But the hotel feels that with the right approach to cost management and efficiency, it will deliver a better gross operating profit (GOP) of 45 per cent within a year. Its GOP is now at 35 per cent.

GOP is gross revenue from rooms, food and beverage, among others, minus the cost of operations like wages and electricity.

In a recent interview with Business Times, general manager John L. Eaton said this year Grand Millennium expects to fill 70 per cent of its 468 rooms and achieve RM360 in average room rate (ARR), which is similar to 2008.

It will try to better manage two of its highest cost components - labour and power.

Since Eaton came on board on April 6, he has almost halved the laundry hours to 14 from 24 hours previously. The hotel has also reduced the number of laundry days to six from seven days previously.

As not every area of the hotel is busy at the same time, Eaton is focusing on employees multi-tasking. The hotel has an employee to room ratio of 1:1, which is not far from a lean number of 0.8:1.

However, the hotel will not do anything that could affect customer experience. "We want to enhance guest experience," Eaton said.

Grand Millennium, previously The Regent, is owned and operated by Singapore's CDL Group of Hotels, which owns and manages hotels under the Millennium and Copthorne brands.

Built in 1989, the hotel was one of the first five-star hotels on Jalan Bukit Bintang, then managed by The Regent International Hotels. Between 1996 and 2005, it was managed by Four Seasons, which bought the Regent brand.

In 2007, it underwent a US$30 million (RM108 million) renovation and was rebranded the Grand Millennium hotel from September 1 2007.

Eaton said while it has achieved the service standards associated with The Regent, Grand Millennium can still do more.

"(It is about the) Relationship between service and brand. If we maintain our service level, value of (our) brand becomes the same. There are always little things to do to make guest experience memorable," he said.

"We can improve and build on our service level," he added.

Eaton said the hotel would do everything possible to maintain its regular accounts and look for new customers to remain competitive.

However, it will not drop rates for the sake of filling up its room. Instead, it will add value.

During the 1997/1998 crisis, five-star hotel rates in Malaysia fell to between RM100 and RM150, depending on where they were located. It has taken all these years for the hotel to get to current levels.

rizalhakim

April 29th, 2009, 04:52 AM

new budget hotel behind menara genesis bukit bintang

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rizalhakim

May 18th, 2009, 09:15 AM

Hotel 'halal' PNB jadi pilihan asing
Oleh AINUL ASNIERA AHSAN
ainul.ahsan@utusan.com.my
http://www.pnbdarbypark.com/

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KUALA LUMPUR 17 Mei - Biarpun dikeliling oleh pesaing yang tidak kurang hebatnya, PNB Darby Park yang diiktiraf sebagai hotel Islam pertama di negara, tidak terjejas sedikit malah semakin kukuh berdiri dengan identiti itu.

Beroperasi dengan nilai-nilai perniagaan Islam, 'tanpa alkohol' dan 'makanan halal sahaja' PNB Darby Park, hotel milik Permodalan Nasional Bhd. (PNB) kekal sebagai pilihan utama pelancong ke Malaysia dari seluruh dunia.

Penolong Pengurus Eksekutifnya, Taha Zainal berkata, sejak beroperasi sembilan tahun lalu, PNB Darby Park mampu mengekalkan kadar penginapan sebanyak 85 peratus termasuk 65 peratus daripada pelanggan-pelanggan jangka panjang.

Menurut beliau, kadar penginapan itu melepasi unjuran industri sebanyak 70 peratus.

Beliau berkata, walaupun negara menerima tempias akibat krisis ekonomi global tetapi setakat ini PNB Darby Park berjaya mengekalkan prestasinya.

''Bagi saya imej hotel Islam itu menjadi kekuatan kepada PNB Darby Park,'' katanya ketika ditemui, di sini.

Taha berkata, di sebalik nilai-nilai Islam itu, PNB Darby Park tidak mempunyai sebarang masalah untuk mempromosikan hotel berkenaan di luar negara.

''Kami dapati PNB Darby Park sering menjadi pilihan tetamu wanita asing yang datang ke Kuala Lumpur secara bersendirian.

''Rata-rata tetamu wanita menyifatkan imej hotel Islam itu membuatkan mereka rasa selesa dan tenteram untuk berada di dalam hotel dan apartmen serta di sekitar PNB Darby Park,'' ujar beliau.

PNB Darby Park yang terletak berhampiran Kuala Lumpur City Centre itu menawarkan kemewahan dan keluasan ruang pada kesemua bilik dan apartmennya.

Kesemua bilik-bilik mewahnya yang mempunyai saiz daripada 21.52 meter persegi sehingga 120 meter persegi dengan kadar sewa antara RM460 semalam dan RM8,000 semalam.

Taha berkata, kelebihan itu menyebabkan hotel berkenaan menjadi pilihan warga Singapura, Amerika Syarikat, Australia, United Kingdom, Timur Tengah dan Jepun,

''Pelancong India juga semakin bertambah setiap tahun,'' tambahnya.

rizalhakim

May 21st, 2009, 04:06 AM

Accor eyes Malaysia for Ibis hotel chain
Published: 2009/05/21
FRENCH multinational corporation Accor Group is eyeing Malaysia for its economy hotel chain, Ibis Hotel, given the rising interest in the country as a top tourist destination in the region.

Ibis is Accor's economy hotel brand, which has expanded rapidly around the world and become the European market leader in the economy hotel industry and one of the five largest worldwide operators.

Currently, it has 800 hotels in 40 countries.

"Malaysia offers nature, cultural experience and great shopping which makes it a key destination for all the hoteliers, making sure they have presence not just inbound and outbound but being there," said Hiro Inoue, the director of marketing for Ibis Singapore on Bencoolen.

Besides being strategically located in the region, he said the country has become an attraction for tourists particularly from South Korea and Japan due to lower currency exchanges rates.

Beside Malaysia, Ibis has yet to have any presence in these countries in the Southeast Asia region, namely Brunei, Laos, Cambodia, Myanmar and the Philippines.

"We actually have had regular meetings with potential parties in Malaysia and have not gone to a point where we could announce where, how and when," he said in an interview recently.

However, Inoue said focus would likely be in areas where growing businesses are, such as Kuala Lumpur, Johor Baru, Kota Kinabalu and Kuching.

Inoue said some Ibis hotels are fully-owned by Accor particularly in strategic locations, some are through joint venture while others are managed hotels.

Under Ibis' worldwide expansion plan, it expects to have 1,100 hotels by next year in more than 70 countries across all five continents.

According to the plan, the Asia-Pacific region, where 40 per cent of these new establishments will be opened, will be the main growth market for Ibis.

Late February this year, Accor opened its first hotel in Singapore, Ibis on Bencoolen, which is a joint venture between Accor and La Salle Investment Group.

The hotel which is also the largest Ibis hotel outside Europe, is 30 per cent owned by Accor while La Salle, which is also the developer, owns 70 per cent. - Bernama

rizalhakim

May 28th, 2009, 10:31 AM

KL hotels’ performance down 20% in 1Q
Written by Financial Daily
Thursday, 28 May 2009 11:25

KUALA LUMPUR: Hotels in the city saw their revenue per available room (revPAR) falling almost 20% during the first quarter (1Q) of the year given the impact of the global economic crisis, said Deloitte, the business advisory firm.

In a statement yesterday, Deloitte said across the Asia-Pacific, revPAR fell almost 30% during 1Q.

It said both occupancy and average room rates continued to fall, down 15% and 17.4% respectively. Occupancy in the region now stands at 57.9%, while average room rates have fallen US$26 (RM90.48). As a result, revPAR fell US$30, to end the quarter, at US$69, said Deloitte.

“Asia-Pacific, like all world regions, is being affected by the global economic downturn and is currently the second most affected region in the world after Europe in terms of hotel performance,” said Marvin Rust, global hospitality managing partner at Deloitte.

nazrey

May 29th, 2009, 10:11 AM

Melia Kuala Lumpur
by xvegandrewx
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nazrey

May 31st, 2009, 06:35 AM

Corus Hotel
by chestlim
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Prince Hotel
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Westin
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nazrey

June 4th, 2009, 06:22 AM

Hard Rock Hotel still has KL on radar screen
By Marina Emmanuel Published: 2009/06/04

The opening of a Hard Rock Hotel in Kuala Lumpur will hinge on timing, the economic climate and 'our investment partners', says Hard Rock International president

THERE may yet be a Hard Rock Hotel in Kuala Lumpur as the brand owner is still confident of the potential of the capital city.

For now, the country's first Hard Rock Hotel, and the world's tenth, will be in Batu Ferringgi, Penang.

The RM150 million hotel will open its doors on September 19 and create 250 new jobs.

"The opening of our new properties, such as the one in Kuala Lumpur, will hinge on timing, the economic climate and our investment partners," Hard Rock International president and chief executive officer Hamish Dodds said.

Hard Rock International and Hotel Properties Ltd had eyed two to three properties in Kuala Lumpur, but the deals fell through.

"Kuala Lumpur, however, remains on our radar screen," Dodds said.

As for the Southeast Asian region, Hard Rock International may open hotels and casinos in Vietnam. Other potential hotel locations in Asia include Shanghai, Beijing and Tokyo.

"If the Japanese and Thai markets open for bona fide gaming, we are also keen to participate in these countries," Dodds told a media briefing in Penang.

The first Hard Rock Hotel in Asia opened in Bali, Indonesia, in 1998, followed by one in Pattaya, Thailand, in 2001.

Hard Rock International is also partnering Genting International, a unit of Genting Bhd, to set up a hotel on Singapore's Sentosa Island.

On a global level, Dodds said there are plans to open between five and six Hard Rock Hotels and 11 to 12 cafes a year.

"Some of these projects were initiated before the poor economic climate and we are still working on big international projects.

"Although we are concerned about the current business environment, the impact on us has not been severe."

rizalhakim

June 9th, 2009, 05:00 AM

new budget hotel

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rizalhakim

June 15th, 2009, 04:25 AM

Hotel Sentral plans to go regional in 3 to 4 years
Published: 2009/06/15

THE Ta family has been involved in operating hotels and resorts in Malaysia for over 15 years and is planning to branch out to Southeast Asia in three to four years.

Hotel Sentral (KL) Sdn Bhd managing director and founder May Ta said the family wants to continue its legacy to provide value-for-money destinations for all groups of people internationally and not restricted to Malaysians.

"We feel operating budget hotels and three-star properties is the best business to be in whether in Malaysia or overseas. There are many budget travellers looking for the best deals," she told Business Times.

The hotel is headed by Ta, a 25-year-old with a degree in international business from Perth, Australia.

Ta is not new to the hotel business. She has been involved in the hotel business since 12, following her family's footstep, especially her father, Tan Sri Ta Kin Yan, on his business rounds.

"I have always liked the hospitality industry. I like to interact with people. It is very challenging that way. My grandfather used to run Hotel Lido in Brickfields but sold his stake several years ago. I learnt a lot from him," she said.

The Ta family owns among others, the three-star Olympic Hotel and New Winner Hotel in Brickfields, Puduraya Hotel in Kuala Lumpur, Pulau Redang Resort in Terengganu, and Wenchang Golf Club in Hainan Island, China.

Ta said the properties are 60-70 per cent occupied currently despite the slowdown in the economy.

"We have always been involved in running budget hotels and three-star properties. We plan to move up a notch and venture into four-star hotels and resorts soon. We are targeting Malaysia, China and Thailand, but much will depend on opportunities," Ta said.

rizalhakim

June 15th, 2009, 04:26 AM

Three-star Hotel Sentral targets budget travellers
By Sharen KaurPublished: 2009/06/15

http://www.btimes.com.my/Current_News/BTIMES/articles/hot5/Article/Current_News/BTIMES/Images/btgraph10/sentral15.jpg

HOTEL Sentral (KL) Sdn Bhd, a privately-held company controlled by the Ta family, has opened the RM80 million Hotel Sentral, a three-star property in Brickfields, Kuala Lumpur, aimed at budget travellers.

The 192-room 16-storey hotel is located behind the monorail station, which is opposite the Kuala Lumpur Sentral development.

The company's managing director and founder May Ta said she has no qualms about opening the hotel now eventhough city hotels are suffering from low occupancy due to poor market sentiments.

Ta told Business Times that the company is branding the property as a value-for-money destination.

"While we are a three-star property, we are providing in-room safe, an LCD flat screen television in each room, and WIFI services. The hotel is located within walking distance to KL Sentral and public transporation," Ta said.

Walk-in room rates start from as low as RM138 nett for a standard room, to RM345 nett for an executive suite.

Ta added that Hotel Sentral is expected to achieve 60 per cent occupancy at an average room rate of RM110 by December 31 2009.

"We have been operating for just a month and are running at more than 60 per cent currently. We are enjoying from AirAsia's night flights. The first place travellers want to go to upon reaching KL Sentral is to the nearest hotel. This will contribute to growth for the property," Ta said.

Since its opening, Hotel Sentral has received guests from New Zealand, Australia, Japan and India.

Ta said she is optimistic the company will be able to recoup its investments in the hotel over the next 8-10 years.

"Brickfields will be the future Little India and this will encourage more travellers to come towards this part of Kuala Lumpur. We will be investing a lot over the next one year to position the hotel," she said, adding that the rich heritage of Brickfields will bring customers to the hotel's doorstep.

The hotel was officially opened by former Tourism Minister Datuk Tengku Adnan Tengku Mansor on Saturday, witnessed by ex-Inspector General of Police Malaysia Tan Sri Norian Mai, and Datuk Ruslin Hasan, former mayor of Kuala Lumpur.

Ta's father, Tan Sri Ta Kin Yan was also present.

nazrey

June 22nd, 2009, 05:13 AM

by k0006002
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Impiana

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Patong, Impiana Phuket.

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KO SAMUI: Hotel Impiana
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Nikko

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rizalhakim

June 22nd, 2009, 05:37 AM

2009
Hotel expects to achieve 60% occupancy

Hotel Sentral, a hotel wholly owned by the Hotel Sentral (KL) Sdn Bhd aims to make a difference in ensuring comfortable and value-for-money accommodation for travellers.

The hotel is located next to the Brickfields Monorail Station and is within walking distance to the KL Sentral, Express Rail Link (ERL) and LRT train station - providing easy access to most of the city’s hotspots such as the Bintang Walk, Berjaya Times Square, KLCC, Petaling Street, Central Market or the KL International Airport.

Its general manager, Ronny Wong, said the hotel expected to achieve 60% occupancy.

“We are confident of achieving the targeted occupancy due to our excellent location and by providing modern comforts in the rooms. All our rooms are equipped with modern amenities such as LCD flat screen television set, minibar, in-room safe, IDD telephone, complimentary Wi-Fi internet access, Astro and local TV channels to ensure a relaxing and comfortable experience,” he said.

Hotel Sentral has two F&B outlets — Starmint Coffee House, located on Level 5, offers a mix of local and international cuisine while Sentro Lounge is a place to chill with your favourite cocktails and unwind, as you catch the sunset on the roof top garden terrace.

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Easy access: The Sentral Hotel is located next to the Brickfields Monorail Station and is within walking distance to the KL Sentral, Express Rail Link (ERL) and LRT train station.
Guests will be pampered with wide varieties of tapas and a selection of coffee and tea. Some of the exciting choices are Darjeeling, Earl Grey, freshly brewed coffee, Espresso and Cappuccino.

The hotel’s four meeting and function rooms offer flexible spaces designed to accommodate up to 200 people. The rooms are equipped with high-speed wireless broadband Internet access and a full range of audio visual presentation technology, including LCD projectors.

To cater to the needs of discerning business travellers, the hotel offers versatile choices of half-day seminar from RM40 nett per person.

Its full-day seminar package includes morning and afternoon tea breaks with a choice of three snacks and one lunch or dinner at RM70 nett per person. These packages are inclusive of the use of the PA system, rostrum with microphone, overhead projector and screen, white board, flip chart, writing materials, backdrop, ice water and mints.

For the residential seminar package, a night’s accommodation inclusive of buffet breakfast and a full-day meeting package is at only RM150 per person, on twin sharing basis.

Opening promotion room rates start from RM118 nett and is valid until June 31. For reservations and details, contact 03-2272 6000 or Fax: 03-2272 6099 or email to reservation@hotelsentral.com.my

nazrey

June 22nd, 2009, 07:38 AM

by 2somewhere
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nazrey

June 23rd, 2009, 03:26 AM

by Naoyuki Yamagishi

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rizalhakim

July 1st, 2009, 04:11 AM

KLCCP Expects Pressure On Hotel Ops

KUALA LUMPUR, June 30 (Bernama) -- KLCC Property Holdings Bhd (KLCCP), which owns the Mandarin Oriental hotel, expects to face considerable pressure on its hotel operations in line with the fall in average occupancy rate among hotels in Kuala Lumpur.

Its chief executive officer, Hashim Wahir, said the current economic slowdown has reduced the tourist arrivals.

"We believe that in order to sustain our position and maintain our profitability, reducing rates is not the only strategy. The hotel will make a decision on the basis of supply and demand," he told a media briefing after the company's annual general meeting here Tuesday.

KLCC Property also owns the Petronas Twin Towers, Menara Maxis, Menara ExxonMobil and Suria KLCC.

According to its annual report, the hotel segment contributed 19 percent to group revenue for financial year ended March 31, 2009.

Revenue rose by two percent to RM861 million from RM843 million previously.

The growth was mainly driven by the group's ability to sustain occupancy levels and improved rentals of office and retail properties, despite weaker demand in the hotel segment, it said.

Hashim said to date, the average occupancy rate was 60 percent.

On the target for the year, he said: "We target the occupancy rate that we have now will still be maintained."

On earning prospect, he said the group was positive on the outlook of the office property sector.

"It is expected to remain stable because the majority of the leases are long term and of quality. We have a good tenant mix who are of sound credit standing. KLCC is still a premium address in Malaysia," he said.

He said the performance of the retail segment was expected to be sustainable, benefiting from the high traffic volume in the KLCC Precint and a tennant mix that would grab the interest of the new brands wanting to come to Suria KLCC.

-- BERNAMA

nazrey

July 5th, 2009, 09:29 PM

Dorsett ready to spread its wings
By Vasantha Ganesan
Published: 2009/07/06

http://www.btimes.com.my/articles/idorsett-2/pix_bottom

DORSETT International Sdn Bhd will make up a fifth of its Hong Kong parent's hotel division profits in three years as it expands its chain in Malaysia.

Dorsett International is the Malaysian hospitality arm of Hong Kong's Far East Consortium International Ltd. It currently manages only hotels that it owns, but has decided to manage other hotels.

The Far East group operates hotels in Hong Kong, China, Macau, Japan and Malaysia. It owns five hotels in Malaysia and operates four of them.

Contributions from Dorsett Regency Kuala Lumpur, Grand Dorsett Labuan, Maytower Hotel and Serviced Residences, Dorsett Johor and Sheraton Subang (managed by Starwood) are negligible although they are making profits.

Dorsett's president Eddie Tang, in a recent interview with Business Times, expects this to change as it looks to double its hotel inventory in three years. It plans to grow this to 15 in 2014.

Dorsett has been given an initial RM500 million budget to build or buy hotels in Malaysia.

While there is no timeframe to use the money, Dorsett has identified few locations for hotels that it will own and manage. It is in advanced talks to build them in five locations.

Tang said it is eyeing Klang Valley, Sabah, Penang and Pahang for expansion.

An estimated RM100 million has been allocated for a 200-room business boutique hotel in Sri Hartamas and RM60 million to RM70 million for a three-star 300-room hotel in Cheras.

In Kota Kinabalu, it has identified a location for a five-star 250-room resort hotel that will cost between RM70 million and RM80 million.

"We may brand it Grand Dorsett Hotel & Resort," Tang said of its first resort for the group.

Dorsett is also eyeing Penang and has identified a location fronting the sea in Batu Ferringhi. It may spend another RM100 million on a hotel there. Tang added that it is also in talks for a possible beach hotel in Kuantan.

Meanwhile, Dorsett is in talks with several parties for hotel management business.

"We are now open for management deals. We are ready to manage other people's properties," he said.

The plan is to manage hotels in Kuching and even in other parts of Peninsular Malaysia.

Tang, who is also responsible for expansion in Southeast Asia, expects to have a hotel each in Singapore and Vietnam in the next three years. It has bid for a project in Singapore and still looking for a site in Vietnam.

nazrey

July 7th, 2009, 05:36 AM

by Y-Xiang
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rizalhakim

July 13th, 2009, 05:33 AM

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rizalhakim

July 13th, 2009, 06:14 AM

nazrey

July 14th, 2009, 08:17 PM

nazrey

July 27th, 2009, 08:57 AM

Serena Brasserie berwajah baru
Friday, 12 June 2009

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Nyamannya kafe.

Cafe Brasserie, Hotel Nikko, di Jalan Ampang, Kuala Lumpur kini berwajah baru. Nyaman mata memandang apabila masuk ke kafe hotel itu.

Bukan sahaja dekorasi yang bertukar, malah juadahnya juga semakin baik. Semuanya demi kepuasan pelanggan dalam dan luar negara.

Sekarang ini musim pelancong negara Arab datang ke negara ini, pasti akan ada juadah istimewa sesuai dengan cita rasa mereka.

Kalau mahu makan dalam suasana nyaman, singgahlah ke Cafe Brasserie ya. Walaupun Jalan Ampang tu sentiasa sibuk dan sesak dengan kenderaan, tapi apabila melangkah masuk ke lobi Hotel Nikko, pasti akan rasa suasana nyaman.

Apatah lagi bila masuk makan di kafe itu. Perut akan terus rasa lapar apabila melihat susunan juadah yang memecahkan liur. Cubalah!

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Menyelerakan juadahnya

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Chef sedang menyediakan juadah.

nazri

July 30th, 2009, 06:37 AM

by zEnZiDeN

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rizalhakim

September 14th, 2009, 08:27 AM

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rizalhakim

September 25th, 2009, 05:37 AM

Arab Hotel Coming to malaysia
Starpoints Kuala Lumpur
http://www.etastarhospitality.com

Address: Level 7, 149, Jalan Masjid India
50100 Kuala Lumpur

StarHospitality Hotels & Resorts, the arm of ETA Star Properties, a leading property developer in the UAE, recently announced the launch of StarPoints, a luxurious hotel apartment located in the heart of Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
StarPoints is located in the Central Golden Triangle of Kuala Lumpur, between the old city & the new. The hotel apartment towers over the other structures in its vicinity, thus offering guests an unmatched view of the bustling capital.
StarPoints boasts of 137 tastefully furnished rooms that include 12 junior suite, 4 executive suites and 2 executives floors

i think dis is the one above haniffa dept store......

the new completed Haniffa Hotel & Dept Store...
they sell the best and cheapest cocholate in Kuala Lumpur

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thewallpart6

September 27th, 2009, 11:14 AM

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nazrey

September 28th, 2009, 01:29 AM

Sheraton Imperial Kuala Lumpur
From flickr

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nazrey

October 2nd, 2009, 09:39 PM

From flickr

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nazrey

October 4th, 2009, 12:31 PM

From flickr

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rizalhakim

October 13th, 2009, 10:58 AM

newly completed budget hotel at bukit bintang
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rizalhakim

October 19th, 2009, 08:28 AM

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rizalhakim

October 19th, 2009, 08:35 AM

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lesart

October 20th, 2009, 07:51 AM

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That renaissance hotel is in desperate need of renovation, or at least a coat of new paint.

The interior too, is not inspiring. Very outdated, and very kitschy. Think faux roman pillars, marble statues and crystal chandelier.

rizalhakim

October 22nd, 2009, 04:57 AM

the YTL project

Grand hotel in a sorry state
By CHOONG MEK ZHIN

http://thestar.com.my/archives/2009/10/22/central/m_pg01majestic.jpg
ONE would expect a hotel nestled in lush greenery and located on prime land in town to have booming business but the fact is that the Majestic Kuala Lumpur is as silent as a tomb. Passers-by will not even notice it, majestic or otherwise.

Designed by Dutch architect Von Leangeanderg, the hotel was built in 1932 and is located on Jalan Sultan Hishamuddin, opposite the Kuala Lumpur railway station and next to the KTMB headquarters.

Boasting 51 rooms, the hotel became a landmark of the town and was ranked among the best places to stay in the region according to Jery Kilker, 77, a retired officer with the World Health Organisation.

“I was excited at the opportunity to stay at the Majestic back in 1973. The hotel was ranked eighth in a popular guide but was more a basic travellers hotel than a holiday resort,” Kilker, an American living in the French Alps said in an e-mail interview.

http://thestar.com.my/archives/2009/10/22/central/m_pg02tpot.jpg
Sad ending: An auctioneer showing a tea pot that was one of the many items including cups and saucers being auctioned off from the orchestra stand located in the Majestic Kuala Lumpur lounge in January 1984 when the hotel closed to make way for the National Art Gallery.

Kilker who was sent by the United Nations’ regional office in Bangkok to Kuala Lumpur for work then, stayed at the hotel for a week and remembers the building as having little decorative detail.

“Looking out a window at the back of the hotel, I saw a family of monkeys going about their lives as usual. It looked like a scene from a sunny forest glade and there were no other buildings in sight,” Kilker said.

The hotel was acquired by the government under the Land Acquisition Act in 1983 which resulted in a furore over the hotel’s fate. Some people were against changing it into something other than a hotel.

While the building’s future use became a topic of discussion at that point, the building’s fate itself was sealed as it was gazetted as a national heritage site under the Antiquities Act, thus it cannot be destroyed or changed in any way.

The reason the government gave for taking over the building was that only a few could appreciate it as a cultural site if it remained a hotel.

And so, on Dec 31, 1983, the hotel staff clocked out for the last time.

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Broken: The Kuala Lumpur railway station can be viewed from the windows facing the front of the hotel.

Eventually, after much debate and an auction selling off all of the hotel’s officially stamped teapots, cups and saucers, the National Art Gallery moved into the premises in 1984.

The public’s access to the place lasted for only 14 years as the gallery moved out in 1998 to its own building that was built by YTL Corporation Bhd under a privatisation deal with the government.

In the deal, YTL Corporation will have to turn the former hotel building into a classic hotel that will be managed by them.

However, until today, the building still stands but falling into a state of disrepair.

An article in 1995 mentioned that YTL would be carrying out renovation work in the building’s interior and a new block with 300 rooms and other luxury hotel amenities will be added.

When YTL Hotels and Properties Sdn Bhd was contacted, a representative said that so far there are no new updates on the hotel plans.

rizalhakim

October 23rd, 2009, 04:28 AM

Carcosa Seri Negara's final countdown
By LIM CHIA YING

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WHEN news that Carcosa Seri Negara might soon close its doors for the final time came out, many former guests took the opportunity to visit the stately mansion once more, if only to catch a final glimpse at a place close to their hearts.

For one 98-year-old great-great-grandmother, the visit was especially poignant as she had been married on the grounds of the hotel when she was a young lass of only 16.

Carcosa Seri Negara is actually an amalgamation of two stately bungalows, Carcosa and Seri Negara.

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Classy touches: The interior of the French restaurant is a sight to behold with lush furnishings and trimmings.

Construction of the Carcosa began in 1896 and it was to be the official residence of the first Resident-General to the Federated Malay States Sir Frank Swettenham, who moved in in 1904. When Malaysia gained its Independence in 1957, Carcosa remained the property of the British government until it was returned in 1987.

Carcosa Seri Negara was opened in 1913 as the official guest house for the Governor of the Straits Settlement and was later referred to as King’s House.

Since 1989, the two properties, collectively known as Carcosa Seri Negara, have been leased to Landmark Hotels and Realty Sdn Bhd on a 10-year renewable contract basis. Since 2004, it has been managed by General Hotel Management Ltd (GHM).

With the second 10-year lease expiring on Dec 31 this year, speculation is rife as to the future of the hotel, and calls for fresh bids and a redevelopment exercise have been made.

Details on the redevelopment project are vague but sources claim that tenders have already been called for and meetings have been held with interested parties.

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Relaxed: The verandah of The Dining Room, where guests can savour English afternoon tea or enjoy a meal.

For the moment, the future of Carcosa Seri Negara hangs in the balance, with the outcome largely dependent on the type of redevelopment that will take place.

Hotel manager Caroline Flitzinger said she had initially received hundreds of emails from the public protesting the redevelopment plan but some had written in support of the idea as long as the existing colonial style and charm were retained.

“After 20 years, the hotel is admittedly a little old and tired. The Malaysian government, which is the owner, might also have some other plans for the land, especially the revenue it could generate and this redevelopment could also help offset the huge maintenance costs of a property this size,” she said.

The hotel has hosted dignitaries and VIPs from the world over and many of those who come for a visit now are regulars. However, most Malaysians visit Carcosa Seri Negara for special events and rarely spend the night.

This might be because of a perception that the hotel is expensive and exclusive.

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Gleaming in white: The Langkasuka foyer at the meeting room where many guests have walked over the years.

“While we do target a rather niche group of clients, our doors are still open to anyone. We would also like to see more traffic here,” Filtzinger, who has been with the hotel for the past two years, said.

According to her, bookings have increased tremendously since news of the possible closure was announced but the hotel has had to turn down any reservations for next year.

For the hotel’s long-serving employees, the next few months are difficult time for them as they wonder about the future.

All 78 employeers would have to be retrenched if the lease is not renewed but GHM is looking out for vacancies at other properties it manages to fit them in.

“I find it hard to accept that it may close soon. It was something we could not have predicted,” pastry chef Muhammad Raz Firdaus said.

“I remember being the last of the 25 people they interviewed for the pastry chef job. I felt like the luckiest person alive when I got the job.

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“It’s been an honour serving our guests over the years. If the development is for the better, then that’s good but Carcosa must be remembered for what it was.

“Development can continue but the heritage must be maintained,” he said, adding that if the new owners offered him a job, he would consider staying on.

GHM has announced that it is offering visitors one last chance to stay at the hotel with various packages available for guests.

The package prices start from RM900++. For now, savouring an Englsih Afternoon Tea at The Dining Room is another option for those who prefer not to stay overnight.

For more information and reservations, call 03-2282 1888.

nazrey

November 21st, 2009, 05:39 AM

dis hotel so outdated laaaa
From flickr

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Mandarin Oriental, Kuala Lumpur
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Traders Hotel

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Melia

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@ Menara Pan Global
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Lunar Bar @ Menara Pan Global

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Ascott Hotel Kuala Lumpur

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Maya

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Double Tree

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Hotel

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Westin KL
From flickr

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nazrey

December 10th, 2009, 03:41 PM

From flickr
@ Puduraya bus terminal

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rizalhakim

December 24th, 2009, 03:49 AM

PNB Darby Park wins another accolade
By Sharen KaurPublished: 2009/12/24

PNB Darby Park Executives Suites Kuala Lumpur, which is owned by Permodalan National Bhd, has won the 2009 "Best Hotel Apartment" award for offering high-quality facilities and services to travellers.

It received the award recently at the LIBUR Tourism Awards 2009 ceremony in Kuala Lumpur, hosted by LIBUR magazine.

Presented by Tourism Ministry's deputy chief secretary Abdul Ghafar Thambi, the award is in line with the government's call to promote Malaysia as a top destination for travellers.

Eighteen categories were presented.

In a statement, PNB Darby Park executive assistant manager Taha Zainal said the achievement has uplifted the hotel's spirit to provide the best for the industry.

"This award is truly a symbol of dedicated staff and sheer hard work by all to provide the best of product and services to guests," Taha said.

"As we are offering quality services to the worldwide market, it is important for us to ensure that guests enjoy a remarkable experience at our serviced residence, by delivering the highest standards of services to all guests," he said.

Since it opened in June 2000, PNB Darby Park has won The Best Hotel 2006, The Best Serviced Apartment 2006/2007, KL's Top 5 Serviced Apartment and Serviced Residence of The Year 2007-2008.

Strategically located within Kuala Lumpur's exclusive Golden Triangle, PNB Darby Park is designed with a modern contemporary lifestyle that offers 338-serviced apartments.

PNB Darby Park, jointly managed by PNB and Sime Properties International Private Ltd, combines the convenience of home with the luxury of five-star services.

Royal Rumble

December 24th, 2009, 07:29 AM

Any budget hotel nearby stadium merdeka can recommend? hehe..

rizalhakim

December 28th, 2009, 03:11 AM

^^can check out petaling street hotels

RM6m refurbishment, rebranding for Mint Hotel
By Sharen KaurPublished: 2009/12/28

http://www.cuti.com.my/hotel/Hotelpages/Kl/Mint/main.jpg
Property tycoon Tan Sri Lee Kim Yew, the owner of Mint Hotel, is now drafting a business plan to turn the hotel around

The three-star Mint Hotel along the Kuala Lumpur-Seremban highway will undergo a RM6 million refurbishment and rebranding programme and re-open by the first half of next year.

Property tycoon Tan Sri Lee Kim Yew, the owner of Mint Hotel, said he is now drafting a business plan to turn the hotel around, which had ceased operations since February 2005.

This follows the conclusion of Lee's acquisition of Mint Hotel from Ambank (M) Bhd for RM45 million, which Lee said was not voluntary.

A sales and purchase agreement was signed with the liquidator, Ernst & Young, in June this year, via his privately-held firm Lambang Raya Sdn Bhd.

"The hotel is not worth that much now. I am a victim. If i don't buy it, the bank will sue me. I will end up in a legal suit. I am caught because of the undertaking I had with the bank a few years ago," Lee, who is also the founder and executive chairman of Country Heights Holdings Bhd, told Business Times.

Property valuers have estimated Mint Hotel to be worth some RM23 million.

Ambank declined to comment.

The issue started when Jennico Associates Sdn Bhd, which is 50 per cent owned by Lee through Lambang Raya, was liquidated by a creditor in January 2000.

At that point, Jennico had already defaulted on a term loan of RM47 million granted by AmFinance Bhd in 1995, under the stewardship of Datuk Major (R) Zulkifli Abdul Mokti and KifliMokti Sdn Bhd, who owns the balance 50 per cent of the company.

Mint Hotel was then auctioned by Ernst & Young in 2005 and this attracted many bidders, including Lee, Lotus Family Group and Majestic Hotel.

They were keen to buy the 413-room hotel as it overlooks the Selangor Turf Club race course and is close to the Mines Exhibition Centre, Mines Wonderland, the Mines shopping mall and a golf course.

Business Times reported in August 2006 that Lotus won the bid to buy the hotel.

But a tussle broke as Lee claimed he was the rightful owner of the property.

According to Lee, he had submitted a bid for RM55 million for the hotel in October 2005 after being advised by AmBank, and a 5 per cent, or RM2.75 million, deposit was made to Ernst & Young.

Lee said his bid was based on a letter of undertaking he signed with Ambank in October 1995 stating that he will buy the hotel for RM55 million in the event of default of a loan taken by Jennico.

wreinmicheal

January 2nd, 2010, 11:54 AM

rizalhakim

January 21st, 2010, 07:16 AM

the new completed Haniffa Budget Hotel & Dept Store...
they sell the best and cheapest cocholate in Kuala Lumpur

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rizalhakim

January 29th, 2010, 05:48 PM

Carcosa to re-open on Feb 1

CARCOSA Seri Negara in Kuala Lumpur will re-open on February 1, as a Saujana Hotels & Resorts (SHR) property.

The luxury boutique hotel will be managed by the Peremba Group, replacing the GHM group which has been managing the hotel since 2004.

Carcosa was closed for renovation in December 2009.

Besides Carcosa, SHR commences operations of The Club at The Saujana, a 105-room luxury boutique resort and The Saujana, a 5-star 210-room hotel both in Kuala Lumpur with effect from March 1.

sc4

February 1st, 2010, 04:55 AM

rizalhakim

February 5th, 2010, 04:24 AM

Impiana KLCC Hotel & Spa wins Best Service Award

http://thestar.com.my/metro/story.asp?file=/2010/2/5/central/5596211&sec=central

Royal Rumble

February 21st, 2010, 04:13 AM

cullen

February 21st, 2010, 04:17 AM

Anyone know about my hotel @ sentral, KL?
http://www.kl-hotels.com/my-hotel/

I planning to stay at this hotel lol, coz of its position near to KL Sentral... dunno good or not... can the KL-ians give some comments, eg, the safety around KL Sentral?

Thanks =3

it's new but remind urself that it's a 2-star hotel. so, don't expect much ;)

anyway it's facing a busy road and might be a little bit noisy....i suggest you find a hotel right inside the city center.

Royal Rumble

February 21st, 2010, 05:57 AM

it's new but remind urself that it's a 2-star hotel. so, don't expect much ;)

anyway it's facing a busy road and might be a little bit noisy....i suggest you find a hotel right inside the city center.

Thanks for your comment... Actually i'm attending SHE's concert next march... So im finding hotels near KL Sentral since its the main station, easier for me to take public transport... but i'm worried that if the concert ended late, then no more public transport can take... then have to take taxi... and also that area safety not so good? @_@

Perhaps i should look after for the hotels nearby the stations in the Ampang line?

rizalhakim

February 21st, 2010, 11:40 AM

Thanks for your comment... Actually i'm attending ... So im finding hotels near KL Sentral since its the main station, easier for me to take public transport... but i'm worried that if the concert ended late, then no more public transport can take... then have to take taxi... and also that area safety not so good? @_@

Perhaps i should look after for the hotels nearby the stations in the Ampang line?

KL sentral manyak budget hotel.....or can try http://www.hotelsentral.com.my/

nazrey

February 25th, 2010, 04:29 AM

Nikko Hotel, Kuala Lumpur

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THT-United

February 25th, 2010, 04:18 PM

Hahaha, the Equatorial is the grand dame of KL hotels and is certainly in need of a facade makeover (at least repaint the sides or better still, clad it)... The interior has been renovated several times though, looks really good! :D

nazrey

March 17th, 2010, 03:47 PM

Shangri-La KL receives country's highest CSR award
2010/03/17

http://streets.nst.com.my/Wednesday/Stories/20100317010016/insidepix1

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak presenting the award to Shangri-La
Hotel Kuala Lumpur hotel manager Marcel Van Mierlo (right). Looking on is
Minister of Women, Family and Community Development Datuk Seri Shahrizat
Abdul Jalil.

KUALA LUMPUR: Shangri-La Hotel Kuala Lumpur received an award for its corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives in the Environment category of The Prime Minister's CSR Awards 2009 recently.

The Prime Minister's CSR Awards, launched by the Ministry of Women, Family and Community Development in 2007, is the highest recognition in this country for corporate organisations which have made a difference to the communities in which they operate through their CSR programmes.

It focuses on companies that have demonstrated leadership and are committed towards the improvement, preservation and protection of the environment.

A statement from the hotel said the illustrious award was a testimony to the hotel's continuous commitment and effort in working towards a sustainable environment that benefits its guests, employees and the community at large.

The hotel was judged for its philosophy, mission statements, environmental objectives and initiatives which included the hotel's environmental policy and actions for hotel operation, use of green products, collaboration with the community and local organisations, human resource development, solid waste management, energy and water efficiency, air quality management, waste water management, toxic and chemical substance disposal management and other initiatives taken by the hotel, such as the redesigning and enhancing of the landscape surrounding the hotel with lush greenery.

As an environmentally friendly hotel, it was the first hotel in Southeast Asia to be awarded three major certifications -- the ISO 14001: Environmental Management System; OHSAS 18000: Occupational Health and Safety Management System; and Hazard Critical Control Point (HACCP) by Lloyd's Register Quality Assurance, United Kingdom in 2006.

The hotel was also awarded the Asean Green Hotel Award in January this year.

SHAH FIRDAUS

March 17th, 2010, 08:21 PM

Hotel Players Urged Not To Underprice, Under-Value Services

KUALA LUMPUR, March 17 (Bernama) -- Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak has urged hotel industry players not to underprice or under-value their services.

He said their action may not necessarily bring in more business as high-end tourists did not mind spending.

"The hotel rates in Malaysia are the lowest in Asia-Pacific," Najib said at the opening the Royale Chulan Kuala Lumpur here on Wednesday.

The five-star hotel, owned by Lembaga Tabung Angkatan Tentera (LTAT) and managed by Boustead Holdings Bhd via Boustead Hotels & Resorts Sdn Bhd, cost RM200 million.

Najib said the country wanted tourists to have a "memorable and pleasant experience".

"In this respect, taxi drivers need to be always polite and friendly," he said.

He said the government would always give priority in the development of the tourism industry.

"In January, the tourist arrivals rose by 1.4 per cent. We hope that this year, the tourist arrivals will be higher than in 2009. Last year, the country managed to attract 23.6 million tourists," he said.

Meanwhile, LTAT chairman, Tan Sri Mohd Anwar Mohd Nor, said the company aimed to invest in valuable properties within the bustling city.

"The hotel complements our other properties, namely Bangunan LTAT and Chulan Tower which are both located within the radius of the Royale Chulan," he said.

He said Boustead Group's experience in managing a successful chain of Royale Bintang hotels would augur well for the group.

"We are confident that with their track record, the Royale Chulan Kuala Lumpur will also be successful," he said.

Boustead Holdings group managing director, Tan Sri Lodin Wok Kamaruddin said, the Royale Chulan was a jewel in the crown of the Royale Bintang group of hotels.

"Since its opening in April last year, the hotel is fast gaining an enviable reputation as the venue of choice for prestigious events locally and internationally," he said.

-- BERNAMA