GEORGE TOWN – Imbued by optimism over the country’s border reopening next month and government incentives, two new hospitality properties are opened in Penang and Langkawi.
Mercure Langkawi Pantai Cenang general manager Jasmine Keh told The Vibes that she sees the hotel business will soon experience a boom in business as Malaysia reopens its international borders and the country makes the transition to the endemic phase.
In preparation for the country’s border reopening on April 1, she said more than 50% of its 164 rooms and suites, along with their dining outlets will be in operation.
“Our projection is very optimistic, but customers are very careful in making their holiday decisions as well. Most tourists remain in the wait-and-see mode.”
Keh hopes this will change as hoteliers assure their clientele that they are taking the necessary precautions in the endemic phase, while also maintaining health standard operating procedures.
“However, we are confident as the hotel is in the heart of Pantai Cenang, yet away from the busy street. It is within walking distance to the popular spots like Dataran Pantai Cenang, Underwater World Langkawi, and the beach.
“We have also built a team of talents who are very passionate to be back in the hospitality industry and committed to providing guests a great experience.”
As opposed to most hotels on the beach strip, the hotel will feature function venues in hopes of attracting business events, such as conferences and trade meetings.
They are currently working with Langkawi Development Authority, Malaysia Association of Hotels and Tourism Malaysia to promote the property.
The hotel will have a launch after the Hari Raya Aidilfitri celebrations.
Meanwhile, Plenitude Bhd has reopened its business hotel Ascott Gurney Penang here in collaboration with CapitaLand Investment Ltd.
Ascott’s country general manager Mondi Mecja said he is looking forward to the return of travel in 2022 with borders reopening and vaccinated travel lanes in place.
“We are excited to bring this positive momentum into 2022 and introduce more of what Ascott has to offer. With a significant global brand presence across the hospitality and tourism industry, Ascott will continue to grow its footprint in Malaysia.
“By the third quarter of 2022, we expect to welcome three more exciting properties which will be in Kuala Lumpur and Penang,” he said during the recent opening of Ascott Gurney Penang.
Plenitude owns the 37-storey Ascott Gurney Penang, located in Gurney Drive. – The Vibes, March 19, 2022
Additional reporting by Sofia Nasir
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