By V. Sivaji 

For a fairly new player in the hospitality industry in Penang, The George Penang By The Crest Collection has done very well for itself. 

First, they were awarded the 5-star rating by the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture (MOTAC) and now, they also joined ranks of being the first The Crest Collection hotel not only in Penang but also in Malaysia. 

Present to launch the rebranded hotel was Penang Chief Minister YAB Chow Kon Yeow along with State Exco for Tourism and Creative Economy YB Wong Hon Wai.

Others present were the Vice Consul General Consulate General of the People’s Republic of China in Penang, Mdm Ding Qiao, Penang Mayor Dato A Rajendran, Global Tourism chief executive officer, Ooi Chok Yan, Penang Convention and Exhibition Bureau CEO, Ashwin Gunasekeran, Mary Ann Harris, Executive Director of P.MED, Tourism Malaysia Northern Region Director Shahrul Aman and his deputy Siti Hajar, Lisa Wong representing MAG Group, Ken Tan (AirAsia) among other industry players.

Welcoming them was Ascott International Malaysia Country general manager Mondi Mecja, Shafar Jamaludin, Director of Operations & GM of Ascott Internatinal Malaysia and his team. Representing the owners of The George Penang was Alan Khor, chairman of Venice Property. 

In his address Chow commended the management of The George for their dedication to safeguarding the very essence of the George Town,  Penang. 

“I extend my heartfelt congratulations to all who have contributed to this achievement. I also commend your visionary curation of The Crest Collection in the heart of George Town.” said Chow.

He also shared that the manufacturing and services sectors contribute 95 percent of Penang’s overall GDP and the two sector are the twin engines of the state’s growth.

Guests were feted to a video presentation followed by a scrumptious lunch as they mingled with the various industry players.

The George Penang offers some 92 exquisite rooms and suites along with an exceptional fusion of classic and contemporary boutique decor.