This month we had the pleasure to meet with Gerard Walker - General Manager of EQ Kuala Lumpur - who shared with us insights about the industry and his hotel & destination.

1000M - Can you tell us more about yourself and your career?

GW - The hospitality profession is able to open up the world to the people who work in it, and I am a primary example. I dove straight in and never looked back.

I’m Australian, born and raised in Sydney. I began my career with Sydney Hilton Hotel in 1998 as Bar Manager of the Marble Bar, and proved my mettle by winning the hotel’s 1999 Employee of the Year award. At that moment, I knew I could do well in this career and continue to love it for a long time.

I’ve worked in various countries, including Australia, Mauritius, China, Thailand, Vietnam and Malaysia. I carefully selected where I would go next to get new experiences and challenges; and each hotel received my dedication and passion in delivering high guest satisfaction and revenues.

1000M - What do you like the most about being a hotelier?

GW - My profession has brought me to some of the most exciting cities in the world, allowed me to work with a range of talented, interesting, quirky, creative people from all walks of life, and underscored the fact that there are different ways to do things right. The pleasure I still get when the hotel guests gain a mind-blowing experience is something that never gets old.  

1000M - The world has changed, what are the main challenges you face nowadays as a hotelier?

GW - These days hospitality begins even before a prospective customer become a guest. Internet penetration, the profusion of content creators, the number of online booking sites, has got the industry on our toes because we now engage at a much greater depth with customers than we ever had before. Finding a voice on our electronic marketing, ensuring a corresponding follow through in our above and below the line marketing, training sales personnel to sell through both our attributes and hardware, as well as the soft touches, is challenging. But when you hit the sweet spot, it really is a thing of beauty and wonder! 

Further to that is the ever-increasing importance of the delivery of the service promises. Saying we are The Best of The Best may get views on our socials and reservations, but it is proving through our service and deliverables that we are as good as we say we are, which is the crux. I believe it is of paramount importance to do as we say.

1000M - Can you tell us more about your hotel and destination?

GW - EQ, currently ranked number 1 in TripAdvisor and winner of the Best City Hotel in Malaysia 2022 by Travel + Leisure Asia, is the newest five-star luxury hotel in Kuala Lumpur. We have had a long tradition of hospitality, being one of the originators of luxury hospitality in Malaysia as the Hotel Equatorial and celebrating our 50th year of operations. In this redux, we deliver opulence, luxury and indulgence with a gorgeous, sustainably-engineered property. The hotel is also Green Building Index (GBI) Gold-certified, making it one of the most energy and resource-efficient buildings in the country. 

The city is vibrant, buzzy and cosmopolitan, but go down a side street, and you find yourself in older times, where history continues to happen alongside the progressive city. I feel that KL is the perfect juxtaposition of historical culture and modernity, a hotbed of frenetic energy from the flashy retail offerings and entertainment venues and simultaneously overlaid by the peaceful green spots scattered around the city. 

EQ takes that dynamism, and crafts it into superlative comfort, exemplary food options, a tranquil spa, as well as vibrant fine-dining and entertainment with some of the best city views, including unobstructed views of the Twin Towers and KL Tower.

The newly built Shanghai Qiantan area that opened in 2021 - in the heart of Shanghai Pudong District - provides a conducive environment for corporate meetings, with its modern infrastructure, convenient location, diverse accommodation options, and a range of dining, entertainment, and cultural experiences. It is an ideal destination for corporate meeting planners looking to create a successful and memorable corporate event.

Key spots: New York University Qiantan Campus / Shanghai Oriental Sports Center and the Shanghai Science and Technology Museum / New Bund 31 Performing Arts Centre

Meeting space available: 4,700 sqm

Guesrooms available: 1,390 guestrooms (including 390 twin rooms)

 

We have curated for you 5 hotels to host your next company meeting, training or team building in Shanghai Pudong Qiantan area

1.) Kimpton Qiantan Shanghai

Address: Block 9. Lane 199 Qiantan Avenue, Pudong District, Shanghai

Open date: August 2023

Largest meeting room: 420sqm

Number guestrooms: 143 (including 46 twin rooms)

Kimpton Qiantan Shanghai is set to become the new heart of Shanghai, the locus of the metropolis's social pulse. A poetic narrative is told in the curated art and fusion of Parisian and Shanghainese design, and immersive experiences are offered in the flexible spaces infused with creative and fresh modern aesthetics. Guests can revel in its magnetic, chic interiors and enchanting gardens with French flair. Further temptations come in the form of exquisite and sumptuous delights in the restaurants and bars, wellness lifestyle, and inventive events.

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2.) Shangri-La Qiantan, Shanghai

Address: No 596 West Yangsi Road, Pudong New District, Shanghai, P. R. China

Open date: October 2021

Largest meeting room: 1600 sqm

Number guestrooms: 585 (including 196 twin rooms)

Shanghai Foreshore Shangri-La is located in the Foreshore area of Pudong World Expo, close to Foreshore Taikoo Li. With the design concept of "revitalizing", Shanghai school culture is combined with "green nature". The hotel has 585 rooms, 4 unique dining venues, over 7,000 square meters of banquet venues and 2,000 square meters of fitness center. Look forward to meeting you.

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3.) Artyzen Habitat Qiantan Shanghai

Address: No 596 West Yangsi Road, Pudong New District, Shanghai, P. R. China

Open date: December 2021

Largest meeting room: 175 sqm

Number guestrooms: 246 (including 52 twin rooms)

Opened December 2021, Artyzen Habitat Qiantan Shanghai is a microcosm of modern city lifestyle. A combination of work, play, rest, discovery and community all-in-one. An Urban Oasis designed by SL+A for the creative, tnergetic and sociable travelers to Inhabit the space their life.

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4.) The Shàng by Artyzen Qiantan Shanghai

Address: No 568 West Yangsi Road, Pudong New District, Shanghai, P. R. China

Open date: December 2021

Largest meeting room: 42 sqm

Number guestrooms: 210 (including 69 twin rooms)

The Shàng by Artyzen Qiantan Shanghai to debut in December 2021 is a new boutique lifestyle concept by Artyzen Hospitality Group.

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5.) Artyzen NEW BUND 31 Shanghai

Address: No 20 666 Haiyang West Raod Qiantan,Pudong Shanghai China

Open date: October 2023

Largest meeting room: 120 sqm (hotel interconnected with The New Bund 31 Performing Arts Center which houses a concert hall and several multi-purpose halls, with a total capacity of seating 4,000 spectators)

Number guestrooms: 202 (including 27 twin rooms)

Artyzen NEW BUND 31 Shanghai is located in the vibrant cultural hub along the Huangpu River — NEW BUND 31, an iconic destination in the making. Adjacent to Bank of Communications NEW BUND 31 Performing Arts Center, guests can soak up the creative vibes and mingle over a pre-show tipple.

This curated gem boasts an expansive destination dining experience with views and outdoor terraces overlooking dynamic Qiantan — Shanghai Modern offering a fresh re-interpretation of Chinese cuisine and Asian-flavoured tapas. A destination within a destination, geometrically inspired meetings and events spaces — Cube and Circle are perfect for stylish and exclusive social events.

The hotel is easily accessible by car along the Central, Southern and Northern highway networks or via bus and Shanghai Metro lines 6, 8 and 11. Oriental Sports Centre, Taikoo Li Qiantan and NYU Shanghai are just a stone’s throw away.

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Sentosa is proud to be at the forefront of sustainable event hosting, earning the distinction of being Asia's first destination to receive the Global Sustainable Tourism Council for Destinations (GSTC-D) certificate. The island's commitment to preserving its rich heritage and minimizing its carbon footprint while conserving its diverse flora and fauna runs deep in its veins.

Did you know that Sentosa has set ambitious goals to become a carbon-neutral destination by 2030? Already implementing a range of sustainable and eco-friendly practices, Sentosa offers a unique setting for a MICE-meets-vacation experience like no other. From the phasing out of single-use plastics and promoting electric car-sharing to innovative methods of nature conservation, Sentosa is dedicated to becoming a true "green" destination. Recognised with a MICE Sustainability Certification by SAECOS , Sentosa is actively engaged in the Sentosa Carbon Neutral Network, a collaborative effort with island partners to further sustainability initiatives.

By 2030, Sentosa aims to power 10% of its electricity needs with renewable energy sources, contributing to its transition to a zero-waste destination through waste-to-energy systems and embracing a circular economy. Working alongside partners, Sentosa is implementing infrastructure solutions to mitigate carbon emissions and generate renewable energy equivalent to offsetting the emissions from approximately 300,000 hotel room nights annually. Since 2020, Sentosa's fleet of beach shuttles has been fully electric, and by 2025, 100% of the island's on-island public transportation will be electric, with the progressive deployment of electric buses. Furthermore, all SDC-owned carparks will be equipped with electric vehicle (EV) charging facilities by 2030.

Sentosa's commitment to sustainability is not only a promise but a tangible reality. By choosing Sentosa as your event destination, you contribute to the collective effort towards a greener future while enjoying an unforgettable and environmentally conscious experience.

Whether you’re booking a block of rooms for a sports tournament or planning a social gathering, we’ve got the ideal hotel and flexible spaces for your group with more than 100 hotels and resorts set in beautiful locations across Southeast Asia and the South Pacific. In addition to meeting spaces, many of our hotels offer amenities like complimentary breakfast, free WiFi, pools, fitness centers, and on-site parking, so you’ll have everything you need. Explore our hotels and filter by location, capacity, amenities, and more.

MICE in Sentosa goes beyond the traditional confines of meetings and conventions, offering a comprehensive experience that seamlessly blends business with leisure. The island strives to be an enticing MICE destination, providing unconventional venues for business travellers. Imagine convening on the open decks of a luxury tallship like the Royal Albatross, where the refreshing sea breeze sets the backdrop for productive discussions or having your meetings and social dinners at the S.E.A. Aquarium, that offers a captivating setting with floor-to-ceiling glass panels, allowing over 100,000 marine animals to accompany your guests.

The Barracks Hotel Sentosa, a restored 1904 military outpost exudes old-world charm while offering modern amenities, creating an ambiance of vintage luxury for your events. Attractions such as Universal Studios Singapore presents an extraordinary option with its themed zones, each capable of transforming into an outdoor events space, complete with thrilling rides, shows, movie sets, and many more.

This tropical island features golden beaches just steps away from lush forests. Immerse yourself in the enchanting Equarius TreeTop Lofts, surrounded by native island trees while enjoying modern amenities. The Sentosa Golf Club offers meeting rooms and pavilions with sweeping views of expansive greenery, allowing you to host corporate golf tournaments on their acclaimed course.

For a truly unique experience, consider reserving the Southernmost Point of Continental Asia, accessible only via a suspension bridge and enveloped by palm trees and breath-taking sea views. Sentosa's beautiful beaches, including Palawan, Tanjong, and Siloso, provide ideal locations for beachfront events. Beach clubs like Tanjong Beach Club, Ola Beach Club, and FOC Sentosa offer relaxing and indulgent gatherings with delectable cuisine and unrivalled sunset views. If awe-inspiring views are a priority, opt for intimate dinner meetings within a Singapore Cable Car cabin or convene 45 meters above the ground at SkyPark Sentosa by AJ Hackett, enjoying panoramic vistas. 

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Sentosa is renowned for its exceptional event venues, offering world-class facilities that can accommodate group sizes ranging from small to medium, large, and even extra-large gatherings, reaching up to 20,000 attendees. These venues provide a diverse range of options, ensuring there is a perfect fit for every event. From fully equipped hotel ballrooms and meeting rooms equipped with state-of-the-art audio-visual, lighting, and entertainment facilities to stunning outdoor venues, Sentosa has it all.

Immerse yourself in the luxurious tranquillity of Capella Singapore, a venue that has hosted high-profile events like the 2018 Trump-Kim summit. Its ambiance and facilities make it an excellent choice for your event. Alternatively, you can opt for Resorts World Sentosa’s Convention Centre, boasting Asia's largest column-free ballroom. This exceptional venue features state-of-the-art 270-degree immersive projection screens and top-notch AV facilities. With the capacity to host banquets for over 6,000 people and offering 35 function rooms for completely customised theatre-style meetings, it ensures a seamless experience for gatherings of any size.

If you seek a scenic and beachside setting, Siloso, Palawan and Tanjong beaches offer a variety of outdoor, indoor, and pavilion-style locations. These versatile spaces can be combined to host large-scale extravaganzas for up to 20,000 people. On the other hand, you can choose a picturesque spot for an intimate beach wedding surrounded by your loved ones.

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THE INITIATIVE IS A SIGNIFICANT STEP AND A PILOT SCHEME WILL BE ROLLED OUT FIRST WITH THE SOFITEL BRAND IN DECEMBER 2020

 Li Binghua, Division Director, Market Management Office, Shanghai Municipal Bureau

of Culture and Tourism and Gary Rosen, Chief Executive Officer, Accor Greater China,

unveiled Accor’s biodegradable solution to replace single-use guest plastic bathroom amenities

In an industry-first, Accor Greater China will replace single-use plastic bathroom amenities with a biodegradable solution. The roll-out is part of Accor’s commitment to reduce its impact on the environment and create positive, sustainable hospitality.

A launch ceremony was held in Sofitel Shanghai Hongqiao on December 2, 2020, with the attendance from representatives for Shanghai Municipal Bureau of Culture and Tourism Market Management Office, Accor management team, as well as professionals from industry associations and hospitality partners.  

In 2019, Accor committed to and delivered against the promise to eliminate plastic drinking straws, stir sticks and cotton buds. The next phase entails eliminating individual plastic amenities and cups as well as other single-use plastic items in guest rooms, meeting areas, restaurants and leisure activity areas to be achieved in the coming few years.

 Accor has been committed to a responsible attitude for 25 years and

will now go further to reduce its impact on the environment.

Accor is a signatory to the Global Tourism Plastics Initiative led by the United Nations Environment Programme to remove all single-use plastics in guest experiences from its hotels over the next few years. As a partner in this initiative, Accor strives to lead by example, drive action internally, share knowledge and initiate collaborations as a responsible industry leader. It is a significant step forward for the global hospitality industry and for Accor, which has been committed to sustainability for decades. 

Accor’s solution for its guest bathroom amenities is to replace them with a biodegradable solution encased in chic ceramic containers that incorporate contemporary designs. The solution was developed with a recognized international company that specializes in travel and hotel amenities solutions. The biodegradable capsule which holds the products is made from renewable raw plant materials including corn and cassava. As it is  biodegradable, it is environmentally friendly with a lower ecological impact. The 290ml containers for shampoo, conditioner, shower gel and body lotion feature sealed polylactic acid (PLA) inner bottles to ensure the highest hygiene and practicality. This eco-innovation and environmental-friendly container was derived after a series of professional experiments, trials and testing conducted over the course of a year. This first of its kind solution is expected to help save more than 16 million of single-use plastic bathroom amenities bottles on average per year across Accor’s luxury and premium branded hotels in Greater China.

 Guests can experience the new Accor biodegradable solution at Sofitel luxury hotels

across Greater China with Lanvin, Sofitel’s partner for bathroom amenities.

Sofitel is the pilot brand for this new initiative in Greater China, with other Accor luxury and premium brands to follow in 2021. The initiative is in line with the Chinese Central Government’s ban of single-use plastics as the country’s active response to the negative impact of plastic pollution on health and ecology as announced in January 2020.

Gary Rosen, CEO Accor Greater China, said: “We are honoured to lead the market as a pioneer in identifying and rolling out this innovative and sustainable initiative in Greater China. We aspire to set an example as a responsible corporate citizen while positively changing mindsets by adopting the logic of reduce, re-use and recycle. Our non-plastic amenities solution underscores our commitment to the environment and the communities where we operate our hotels. It is a holistic concept that fulfils many criteria including ecological impact, quality guest experience and excellent brand alignment.”

Representative for the Shanghai Tourism Trade Association, Hotel Industry Division said: “Plastic pollution is one of the major environmental challenges of our time and we have an important role to play in contributing to the solution. We are glad to see that through the plastics ban initiative, hospitality companies and tourist destinations have creative solutions to innovate the way they reduce the use of plastics to advance circularity in our economies while reducing plastics pollution in China.”  

Sébastien Bazin, Chairman and CEO, Accor, said: “Our industry has a significant impact on the planet and we fully measure how key our responsibility is to create sustainable tourism for our employees, guests, suppliers, partners and host communities. We are proud that our teams in Greater China have taken a leading role to create unexpected solutions locally, and to inspire others.”

ABOUT ACCOR

Accor is a world leading hospitality group consisting of more than 5,000 properties and 10,000 food and beverage venues throughout 110 countries. The group has one of the industry’s most diverse and fully-integrated hospitality ecosystems encompassing luxury and premium brands, midscale and economy offerings, unique lifestyle concepts, entertainment and nightlife venues, restaurants and bars, branded private residences, shared accommodation properties, concierge services, co-working spaces and more. Accor also boasts an unrivalled portfolio of distinctive brands and approximately 300,000 team members worldwide. Over 65 million members benefit from the company’s comprehensive loyalty program ALL - Accor Live Limitless - a daily lifestyle companion that provides access to a wide variety of rewards, services and experiences. Through its Planet 21 – Acting Here, Accor Solidarity, RiiSE and ALL Heartist Fund initiatives, the group is focused on driving positive action through business ethics, responsible tourism, environmental sustainability, community engagement, diversity and inclusivity.  Founded in 1967, Accor SA is headquartered in France and publicly listed on the Euronext Paris Stock Ex (ISIN code: FR0000120404) and on the OTC Market (Ticker: ACRFY) in the United States. For more information visit group.accor.com or follow Accor on Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn and Instagram.

Accor Greater China

Phyllis Sio                                                                             April Ling

Executive Director of Communications                     Communications Manager

Phone: +86 159 2079 9606                                     Phone: +86 21 6119 9839

Email: Phyllis.sio@accor.com                Email: April.Ling@accor.com

ACCOR have introduced intensified hygiene & prevention measures to ensure your safety.

The ALLSAFE label, developed with and vetted by Bureau Veritas, represents Accor new elevated cleanliness protocols and standards, and provides assurance that these standards have been met in Accor hotels.

CARE & TRAIN

Staff given comprehensive safety & hygiene training

Staff regular health checks conducted

ALLSAFE Officer 24/7

Staff wear appropriate mask and use sanitizer solutions

CARE & REASSURE

Guests and vendor temperature control system available and green code shown at hotel entrance(s).

Guests and third party vendors must wear masks before entering the hotel.

SAFE ROOMS

Social distancing measures in place

Air ventilation optimized during the event

CLEANING & DISINFECTION

All utensils deep cleaned and sanitized

High disinfection done during each break

All banquet staff correctly wearing masks , surgical gloves and hair net

SAFE FOOD SERVING

All food items presented on lazy-susan (family style dining) paired with individual service cutlery, chopstick and spoon

Cups, glasses, cutlery all protected

Food items individually protected

ALL – Accor Live Limitless Meeting Planner launches Triple Points Campaign 

At Accor hotels, meetings and events are easy, seamless and rewarding. Dedicated and professional hotel teams help clients every step of the way from preparation to execution to make business meetings and all-kind of events hassle-free. ALL – Accor Live Limitless Meeting Planner launches its Triple Points Campaign giving members of the ALL Meeting Planner programme triple points when booking business events held and fully paid between May 1 and December 31, 2020 at participating Accor hotels in Greater China. On top of that, MICE groups will receive a complimentary suite for every 20 paying rooms, inclusive of daily breakfast, lunch and dinner. 

Accor’s internationally renowned hotel brands offer distinctive meeting signatures to cater for the different needs of today’s business meetings and events.

The acclaimed and iconic Fairmont brand is ideal for people seeking prestigious and exclusive experiences to celebrate their milestone events in life and at work. Fairmont hotels around the globe are places where moments are transformed into cherished memories thanks to the charismatic ambience, impeccable and engaging services, as well as inspiring dining options. Apart from the ideal venue choices in Beijing, Shanghai, Yangcheng Lake, Chengdu, Nanjing and Wuhan, the Sustainable Meetings and Fairmont Signature Events will elevate your events with innovative programmes protecting the planet through green initiatives. 

In Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Xi’an, Kunming and Macau, Sofitel’s Magnifique Meetings & Events brings creativity and modern Art de Vivre to your events. At Sofitel, meetings, team-building activities, company events or parties are all inspired with the perfect blend of local excellence and French finesse and luxury.

Pullman’s Meet & Play concept combines work and play in an energized atmosphere imbued with cultural elements. Fun interactions and holistic experiences promote wellness and culinary creativity. The concept is reinforced by Pullman’s Art at Play initiative that connects guests with contemporary art as a vibrant touch at every meeting or function. At Pullman hotels in Shanghai, Guangzhou, Suzhou, Wuxi, Kaifeng, Huizhou, just to name a few, guests can enjoy the new meeting concept to improve efficiency through connectivity and creativity for more vibrant meeting experiences.

ALL – Accor Live Limitless Meeting Planner is an elite loyalty programme that rewards meeting planners and event organizers with points for every eligible event organized. Join ALL – Accor Live Limitless Meeting Planner programme now and enjoy exclusive benefits with the Triple Points Campaign at: 

https://all.accor.com/loyalty-program/promotions-offers/bonus-offers/owm011990-001-triple-points-me.en.shtml