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DoubleTree by Hilton in Putrajaya to review prices?

PUTRAJAYA: The DoubleTree by Hilton Putrajaya Lakeside may review its pricing strategy in reaction to rising operating costs, according to the hotel's general manager Ian Barrow.

"We are committed to consistently reviewing our pricing strategy. This approach allows us to effectively address the rising costs while ensuring our rates remain competitive and aligned with market trends," he told the New Straits Times.

Barrow said the 290-room hotel's current room rates begin at RM330.

 According to Barrow, hotel room sales are developing at a promising rate, with rising demand from both domestic and international travellers. 

 He said the hotel is experiencing a good increase in MICE business, which is being driven mostly by team-building-related events from Klang Valley region corporate companies and training series.

"Domestic and international travellers from Southeast Asian countries, China, Japan, South Korea, northern Europe, and North America remain our target market," Barrow added.

 He said the main draws of this property are the distinctive architectural design of the hotel, versatile meeting facilities, expansive outdoor areas for team-building activities, three pools (splash pool, lakeside pool, rooftop pool), and the Malaysia Experience customer journey that the hotel has crafted. 

 The five main pillars of the Malaysia Experience are cultural, food, family, MICE, and wellness, according to Barrow.

 DoubleTree by Hilton Putrajaya Lakeside, which is owned by Idaman Putrajaya Sdn Bhd, is a four-block hotel that launched in 2021.

 Only two blocks were built due to lengthy construction delays caused by the Covid-19 outbreak, according to Barrow.

 The hotel initiated a soft opening for the first two blocks in October 2021.

 Barrow said the construction of the remaining two blocks is currently under way.

Meanwhile, he said the hotel has completed its refurbishment.

Barrow said the works involved were significant, with complete renovations of the rooms, the main restaurant (Makan Kitchen), the Koffee Lounge, the Executive Lounge, and the meeting rooms.

 Additional features were added, including the new splash water park, kids club, games room, and arcade room.

"We are looking for opportunities to improve additional facilities and services," he said.

Barrow said as a general manager, the biggest encounter for the hotel would be workforce challenges during the pandemic and difficulty in rehiring staff. 

 "As the industry recovers, attracting and retaining skilled employees can be demanding, especially if the workforce has shifted to other sectors. Global economic uncertainty, fluctuations in currency exchange rates, and potential shifts in consumer spending patterns can impact both international and domestic travel," he said.

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