Page 322 - Westport Guide To Malaysia

314 HOTELS & CONVENTION FACILITIES - FOREWORD
MALAYSIAN ASSOCIATION OF HOTEL OWNERS
Malaysia has a long history of hospitality. Our modern hotelkeeping sector has its origins as far back as the late 1800s. Local entrepreneurs developed imposing new hotels around the peninsula and helped to make Malaya a must-visit destination for well-heeled tourists in the early 20th century. With the coming of independence in 1957, both tourism and trade grew rapidly. Some fine old colonial hotels across the country have been conserved and restored to preserve the social and cultural heritage. Today, the nation’s tourism industry, particularly the hotel sector, has emerged as one of the major contributors to Malaysia’s economic growth and development.
The growing demand for impeccable service, world-class amenities and unparalleled facilities is more than satisfied in Malaysia by some of the finest hotels in Asia, offering their luxurious accommodation at very affordable prices by global standards. There has also been strong growth in the mid-market and budget sectors, so we can offer comfortable, welcoming accommodation to suit every pocket. Small boutique hotels and resorts have sprung up in unique locations, many of them starting life as humble family-run homestays and evolving into small jewels of the hotelkeeper’s art.
The future also looks bright for the hotel sector. The number of hotel rooms in Malaysia has almost doubled over the last decade with more independent luxury properties and high- end hospitality brands establishing a presence in the country. At the same time, the hotel market is diversifying, with our classic grand hotels being joined and complemented by themed lifestyle hotels catering to specific market needs.
Tan Sri Dato’ Teo Chiang Hong
President
Malaysian Association of Hotel Owners