operates six establishments in the destination, with five more to open by 2019, ranging between 200 – 310 units. In all, the company has a portfolio of 2,400 keys across 11 existing and upcoming properties in the country.

“We are positive about the serviced apartment outlook in Malaysia,” stated Philip Lim, country general manager, Malaysia, The Ascott Limited, who emphasised that Asia Pacific, Europe and the GCC are expected to be the new hotels’ main target markets upon opening.

With up to eight additions by 2020, Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide is also expected to make waves in the country’s hospitality offering.

Furthermore, FRHI Hotels & Resorts will also penetrate the Malaysian market in 2017 with the 62-storey 750-room Fairmont Kuala Lumpur.

On the topic of fostering further growth, Doris Chin, cluster director, sales and marketing, Mulu Marriott Resort & Spa and Miri Marriott Resort & Spa, posited that Malaysia has a lot to offer, however, in order to garner a larger share of the market, it  desperately needs to attract international airlines to expand in the country, and also urge its national carrier to reach out further and support global routes for the benefit of the industry.