08:00 - 08:55Registration and Match & Meet

08:55 - 09:00Welcome Remarks from the Organizer
Speaker:● Gloria Wong, Executive Director

Data Talks

09:20 - 09:20Opening Speech by Ministry of Tourism

Property Owners' Track

09:20 - 09:50(PANEL) Malaysia's Rising Investment Opportunities: Navigating Inflation and Mastering Smart Investment during crisis
Moderator:● Mimi Renati Zainol, Head of Resorts at MK Land Holdings Berhad
Panelists:● Joanne Kua, Managing Director at KSK Land● Chris Chen, Chief Operating Officer at Mah Sing Group Berhad ● Rio Kondo, Vice President Development, Indonesia & Malaysia at Accor

09:50-10:30(PANEL/KEYNOTE) Navigating the Changing Landscape of Hotel Investments in Malaysia: Key Drivers and Strategies for Success
Moderator:● Amy Wong, Executive Director at Knight Frank

10:30 - 11:10Morning Tea Break + 1-1 Business Matching

11:10 - 11:40(PANEL) Unlocking Hidden Value: The Art of Conversions
Panel Discussion:Commercial property conversion is a key strategy for unlocking the hidden potential of underutilized properties in Malaysia's hospitality landscape. This approach involves converting commercial properties into profitable ventures that cater to the changing needs and preferences of modern consumers. However, it is essential to strike a fair balance between property owners, developers, and investors to ensure the success of these ventures. This article explores the intricacies of commercial property conversion in Malaysia's hospitality landscape, offering insights into the key factors that contribute to success. By providing practical advice on how to navigate the complex world of commercial property conversion while ensuring fairness for all stakeholders, this article will be invaluable for anyone looking to unlock the full potential of their commercial properties in Malaysia's dynamic hospitality market
Moderator:● Previndran Singhe, Managing Director and CEO at Zerin Properties
Panelists:● Zhe Wen Law, Director, Business Development & Asset Management ID & MY at The Ascott Limited● Bryan Chan, Senior Director, Development, Southeast Asia & Korea at InterContinental Hotels Group● Matt Holmes, Vice President Development, South East Asia & Pacific Rim at Wyndham Hotels and Resorts● Steve Tjen, Director of Development at Radisson Hotel Group

11:40 - 12:10(PANEL/KEYNOTE) Wellness Real Estate: A Lucrative Asset Class for Savvy Property Buyers and Investors in Malaysia's Thriving Market
Moderator:● Reginald Pereira, President & CEO at Aariana Hospitality International
Panelists:● Trent Munday, Senior Vice President at Mandara Spa (Hotel & Resort Spa Management Company)

Brand DNA Track

12:10 - 12:50(PANEL) The Future and Challenges of White Label Hotel Management and Softbranding
Panel Discussion:In this discussion, we explore the future and challenges of white label hotel management and soft branding. These innovative approaches are disrupting the hospitality industry, offering new opportunities. We examine the dynamic nature of this landscape, considering how hotels and brands adapt to changing consumer demands. We address the competitive nature of white label hotel management and soft branding, highlighting the advantages and challenges they present. Additionally, we emphasize collaboration, sustainability, and the role of technology in enabling seamless operations. Join us as we uncover the transformative potential of white label hotel management and soft branding for the industry.
Moderator:● Norbert Vas, COO at Archipelago Indochina
Panelists:● David Roberts, Assistant Vice President at Dusit International

12:50 - 14:00Lunch Break + 1-1 Business Matching

14:00-14:30(PANEL) Local Brand Differentiation Strategies: How to Stand Out in the Market
Moderator:● Munish Goindarasay, Owner at Affinity Zest Hospitality Management
Panelists:● Kingston Khoo, Group Head of Marketing and E-commerce at Tradewinds Corporation & President at Eco-STEPS Malaysia  

14:30 - 15:00(PANEL) Mastering the Art of Branding: How to Establish a Strong Footprint in a Diverse Hotel Market

Design Track

15:00 - 15:20Reserved for Commercial Partner

15:20 - 16:00(PANEL) Flexible Living - What, Why & How?
Panel Discussion:Flexible living offers residents more freedom and flexibility by renting fully-furnished units on a short-term basis, with different models including co-living spaces and rental of full apartment units. The discussion will cover the concept of flexible living, its different models, and how it differs from traditional serviced apartments.
Moderator:● Shi’Ai Liang, Vice President, Head of Development at Blueground

16:00 - 16:40Afternoon Tea Break + 1-1 Business Matching

16:40 - 17:10(PANEL) Embracing Sustainable Luxury: Incorporating Nature into the Future of High-End Designs in Malaysia's Hospitality Industry
Moderator:● Kirk Ellis, Director of Hospitality at Gensler
Panelists:● Dorian Landers, Executive Director at Hostasia Hospitality● Diyana Mohd Amin, Head of Sustainability & ESG at Iskandar Investment Berhad

17:10 - 17:40(PANEL) Greening the Malaysian Hospitality Industry: Opportunities and Challenges in ESG Investing and Sustainable Operations

17:40 - 18:10(KEYNOTE) Ecotourism and the Sustainable Development of Resorts and Hotels in Malaysia: Challenges and Potentialities

16:10 - 18:40Lucky Draws + Group Photo

08:00 - 08:55
Registration and Match & Meet

08:55 - 09:00Welcome Remarks from the Organizer
Speaker:● Gloria Wong, Executive Director

Data Talks

09:00 - 09:20(KEYNOTE) Hotel Profit Levels in Malaysia vs Neighbour Countries
Speaker:● Bousserind Comson, Business Development Manager at HotStats

Hotel Technology Track

09:20 - 9:40(PANEL) Safeguarding Hotel Data and Capitalizing on the Technological Boom: Cybersecurity in the Hospitality Industry
Discussion:The hospitality industry often comes out on top among the sectors most susceptible to cyber security risks. Hotels, despite being brick-and-mortar businesses designed for the tangible enjoyment of their amenities, have become a data goldmine for hackers. The challenges are increasing with the extensive use of technology in day-to-day operations, such as self-check-in and on-site payments in light of the lack in manpower. This session will look into concrete steps that brands are taking to secure their data and counteract cyberattacks.
Moderator:● Ming Chew Chang, Executive Director at Tricor Axcelasia

Panelists:● Ts. Dr. Suresh Ramasamy, Chief Research Officer & Chief Information Security Officer at Center for Advanced Computing and Telecommunications (CACT)

09:40 - 10:00(PANEL) The Essential Role of AI in Hotel Development
Moderator:● Ken Tay, Chief Business Development Officer at HostPlatform● Ts. Dr. Muhammad Imran Sarwar, Chief Executive Officer at Datalytica Sdn Bhd

Revenue Rebound Track

10:00 - 10:40(PANEL) PMS in Focus: Why it is a Multidimensional Approach for Hotel Managers?
Panel Discussion:Over the years, PMS is proven to be an indispensable solution to optimize hotel operators' daily tasks, from managing distributions and revenues, streamlining operations, collecting and dissecting data, engaging customers, and many more. In this session, revenue managers and vendors suppliers will join to discuss the future of PMS and how PMS will help power hotel revenues and enable your business to meet demanding guests.
Moderator:● Vishal Raj, Co-Founder at Malik Streams Hospitality Sdn Bhd
Panelists:● Hariish Veera, Director of Revenue Management at Sofitel Kuala Lumpur Damansara● Muhamad Amsyar, Director of Revenue at InterContinental Kuala Lumpur

10:40 - 11:20Morning Tea Break + 1-1 Business Matching

Operations Optimization Track

11:20 - 12:00(PANEL) Keys to Power through the Hotel Challenges
Panel Discussion:Experienced General Managers from both chain and boutique hotels will share their insights and experiences in overcoming operational challenges that are commonly faced in the hospitality industry. These challenges include employment turnover, high operating costs, supply chain issues, and the constantly evolving needs and expectations of customers. The session will focus on discussing notable changes and successful strategies that have been implemented to optimize operations and achieve success in recent times.
Moderator:● Ricky Ang, Founder & Director at Sepia Hotels & Resorts
Panelists:● Mondi Mecja, Country General Manager at Ascott International Management, Malaysia● Jean-Pierre Muller, Director of Operations at Else Retreats●  Yogendran Devarajan, General Manager at Elysium Resorts Sdn Bhd

12:00 - 12:40(PANEL) Uncovering the Hospitality Industry's Labor Shortage to Fuel Growth
Panel Discussion:The hospitality industry is facing a serious shortage of skilled labor, which is impeding its growth potential. In this session, industry experts will discuss the impact of the shortage and strategies that how to create a dynamic workface to over come the HR challanges.
Moderator:● Dennis Tan, Managing Director at The Everly Group
Panelists:● Vivek Viven, Head of Human Resources, Group - Hotel Division at SKS Group● Anita Selvaraju, Director of Human Resources at Ascott Kuala Lumpur● Sophia Goh, Cluster Director of Human Resources at Miri Marriott & Mulu Marriott

12:40 - 14:00 Lunch Break + 1-1 Business Meeting

Guest Experience Track

14:00 - 14:40(PANEL) Enhancing Guest Experience: Managing the Digital Journey from Pre-Arrival to Post-Stay
Panel Discussion:A prospective guest searching a hotel will first look at ratings and reviews from previous visitors before browsing websites for pricing and offers. Now that seamless check-in, self-service options, and contactless interaction are regarded as fundamental to all in-stay experiences, digital communication is essential for hotels to better learn and satisfy their guests. The hospitality industry has consistently topped others in crafting personalized guest experiences as a key success indicator. In this session, seasoned hoteliers will discuss how to effectively manage the digital voyage of visitors while maintaining effective communication with them from pre- to post-stay.
Moderator:● Lip Seng Yap, CEO at Riyaz Hotels & Resorts
Panelists:● Peiman Jalali, CEO at Hilan Hotel

14:40 - 15:20(PANEL) Luxury Lifestyle: The New Hotel Trends
Panel Discussion:What comes to your mind when you think of "luxury hotels"? A magnificent lobby, a balcony with skyline views, rooms that come with private plunge pools, and phenomenal bathrooms or else. When it comes to luxury travel, guests are still looking for rich fabrics, and astounding designs. Meanwhile, new generations are craving enriched experiences, a unique and personalized touch, healthy foods, a sensual indulgence, and many more. In this session, designers, operators, and consultants will discuss what is truly luxury and how to provide a luxurious experience from design to operations.
Panelists:● Sophon O-In, Director of Spa & Wellness at Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group

15:20 - 16:00Afternoon Tea Break + 1-1 Business Matching

Marketing Innovation Track

16:00 - 16:40(PANEL) Refining Your Hotel's Narrative to Differentiate and Gain a Competitive Edge
Panel Discussion:A well-executed narrative enables guests to immediately immerse themselves in a hotel's distinctive experience. However, despite brands' best efforts to stay active through blogs, social media posts, and influencer initiatives, the outcome is usually fragmented content that cannot link to their websites or customer booking journey. How can hotels transform their stories into a valuable asset-class from the phase of research to reservation?

16:40 - 17:20(PANEL) The Distribution Mix: Dissecting Trends and Challenges in Omni-channel Distribution
Panel Discussion:Hotels should adopt multi-channel distribution approaches like flash sales, subscription models and loyalty programs, OTAs, GDS, metasearch, wholesalers, influencer marketing and its associated social media campaigns, and many more. In this session, tech disruptors and hotel distribution heads will address the distribution challenges currently faced by the local operators and forecast the best practice to drive future growth.
Panelists:● Bharath Satyavolu, Vice President Revenue at ONYX Hospitality

17:20 - 17:40Lucky Draws + Group Photo