By V. Sivaji
Dutch national Paul Hu did not expect Langkawi to feel like his second home so quickly.
Yet, somewhere between the island’s emerald waters and lush rainforest canopies, the Food & Beverage Director of The Ritz-Carlton, Langkawi found himself captivated,not just by the landscape, but by the rhythm of life it offers.
This is Hu’s first posting in Malaysia, and also his first time living on the tropical island of Langkawi.
Hailing from Netherlands, he grew up and was educated in a country known for its canals and cool climate, a stark contrast to Langkawi’s sun-drenched shores. But adaptation has always been second nature to him. Fluent in Dutch, English, Mandarin and German, Hu carries with him a global outlook shaped by years of working across cultures, including stints in Hong Kong, Macau and mainland China.
Step into any of the resort’s dining venues, and you will find traces of that international experience reflected in his approach,refined yet open, structured yet curious. It’s a balance that defines not only his professional philosophy, but also his personal one.
True to his calling as a hotelier, Hu believes that the fastest way to understand a place is through its food.
In Malaysia, that journey began with a beloved national staple: nasi lemak. Fragrant rice, sambal, crispy anchovies, what started as a simple introduction quickly turned into a genuine appreciation. “It’s comforting, yet complex,” he might say, echoing the layered flavors that mirror the country itself.
Among his travels include stints in Banyan Tree, Macau, W Guangzhou, The St Regis, Zhuhai, The Ritz-Carlton Shanghai, The Ritz-Carlton, Hong Kong to name a few.
Outside of work, Hu his curiosity continues to guide him. His recent travels across Kuala Lumpur, Penang and Malacca weren’t just leisurely escapes,they were personal explorations of history, including a deeper look into Malaysia’s Dutch colonial connections.
In the meantime, a trip to Singapore added another dimension to his regional understanding, blending heritage with modernity in ways that resonate with his own journey.
Next on his list is Bangkok, a city renowned for its vibrant street life and dynamic culinary scene, another opportunity, no doubt, for Hu to immerse himself in new tastes and encounters.
For Hu, hospitality goes beyond service; it’s about connection. Whether he’s meeting guests, exploring a new city, or simply enjoying a plate of nasi lemak, he approaches each experience with openness and enthusiasm. And in Langkawi, amid its enchanting beauty, he seems to have found not just a workplace, but a place that speaks to his spirit of discovery.
Do drop-by The Ritz-Carlton, Langkawi to say hello to Hu over a cup of coffee or even a glass of wine.
That’s a really interesting read. It’s amazing how a place can just resonate with you after a relatively short time – I’ve experienced something similar when traveling.