One of the longest serving general managers in the hospitality industry in Penang is the general manager of G Hotel and the G Kelawai Hotel – Michael Hanratty. 

With more than a decade of dedicated service since joining G Hotel Penang in 2013, Michael Hanratty has become synonymous with excellence in hospitality, leading the hotel to sustained international recognition. 

It is a timely moment to reflect on his extraordinary journey and achievements. His long standing service and leadership marks 12 years at the helm as the hotel’s general manager. 

Michael ascended from rank and file from his early days to General Manager in 2013, embracing every challenge with unwavering determination. Over these 12 years, he has guided both the G Hotel Gurney and Kelawai branches through growth, adversity, innovation and recognition 

His “people first” philosophy has been his mantra all these years. A former pathologist turned hospitality leader, Michael’s commitment to staff empowerment, open communication and personal mentorship has shaped a work culture rooted in excellence and mutual respect  

His dedication and service has not gone unnoticed as the hotel and he himself have won global and regional recognition. 

Among them are – Luxury Lifestyle Awards 2025: Under Michael’s stewardship, G Hotel Gurney secured two coveted titles—Top 100 Hotels & Resorts and Top 100 Hotel General Managers globally, cementing its place among the world’s elite hospitality brands, Over 210 awards to date, spanning categories like World Halal Excellence, Hotel of the Year, Best Luxury Bleisure Hotel in Malaysia, TripAdvisor’s Travellers’ Choice, and more—a testament to sustained high standards and guest satisfaction, ASEAN MICE Venue Standard 2024–2026 Award: G Hotel’s meeting facilities were recognized at the ASEAN Tourism Forum for delivering world-class MICE capabilities, reflecting Michael’s emphasis on high-tech infrastructure and event services, Travel & Hospitality Awards Malaysia 2024: G Hotel Gurney was named “Hotel & Restaurant of the Year – Malaysia”, showcasing its exceptional guests’ experience and hospitality under Michael’s leadership, Global Brand Awards 2024: The only Malaysian hotel to receive the Best Business Hotel award, highlighting G Hotel’s niche in business travel under Michael’s vision, WORLDCOB BIZZ Awards: Michael and G Hotel Kelawai earned this prestigious honor in 2021, 2022, and earlier, for consistent business excellence, quality of service, leadership, and innovation—especially during crisis times like the pandemic.

His focus on staff and team members speaks volumes. They range from the pandemic safety SOPs to generous staff appreciation events—such as the Phantom of the Opera–themed staff party in 2024—Michael has prioritized team morale, rewarding long-serving employees with service awards and recognition ceremonies His hands-on approach extends into operations, refurbishment, digital transformation, CSR activities, and cross-department engagement, setting a model for modern hotel management  

This moment serves to honour 12 years of transformational leadership, and much anticipation for the years to come.

As Michael’s upcoming birthday approaches this week, we at Penang Hyperlocal wish him a very happy birthday and best wishes too !