The official opening of Wisma Elica and Voco Kuching by IHG marked a significant milestone for Sarawak’s hospitality industry, introducing the first Voco by IHG hotel in Malaysia while transforming the former property into a mixed-use destination that combines accommodation, retail, wellness and community spaces.
Held on July 28, the grand opening ceremony welcomed the Premier of Sarawak, Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Haji Abdul Rahman Zohari bin Tun Datuk Abang Haji Openg, alongside Senior Vice President and Managing Director of IHG Hotels & Resorts for East Asia and Pacific Rajit Sukumaran. They joined Managing Director of Elica Equity Sdn Bhd Dato Bobby Ting Sie Ching in officiating the landmark development with a ribbon-cutting ceremony at Rainforest Hall.
Image: The Bruneian
Image: The Bruneian
In his welcoming remarks, Dato Bobby described the redevelopment as a long-term investment aimed at creating a destination that serves the people of Sarawak for generations. He said the vision extended beyond renovating an ageing hotel to establishing a place where hospitality, wellness, retail and community come together under one roof after more than a year of planning and transformation.
The newly opened Voco Kuching by IHG features 322 guest rooms, ranging from standard and premium rooms to presidential suites and one- and two-bedroom suites. The property also includes an event hall capable of accommodating up to 1,300 guests, six meeting rooms, a gym, swimming pool, restaurant and café. Complementing the hotel are retail outlets including Best Borneo, with The Gourmand and Acai Flow set to open soon.
Image: The Bruneian
Image: The Bruneian
Speaking during the ceremony, Rajit Sukumaran said the partnership with Elica Equity was built on shared values and a common vision for the future. He noted that Kuching was an ideal location for the Voco brand, bringing together contemporary design, thoughtful hospitality and the warmth of Sarawak to create a distinctive guest experience.
The Premier of Sarawak highlighted the project’s importance to the state’s economic transformation, describing it as a milestone for both the hospitality sector and Sarawak’s broader development. He said the investment demonstrates private sector confidence in the state’s economy while creating new opportunities and strengthening Kuching’s position as a preferred destination for visitors and business events.
The ceremony concluded with a commemorative photo session, prize presentation and luncheon celebrating Sarawak’s rich cultural heritage.
THE BRUNEIAN | BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN
