More hotels adopt green technology
KOTA KINABALU: More hotels have adopted the concept of green technology in the interest of environmental protection, said Deputy Chief Minister Datuk Christina Liew.
“Going Green in the hotel is the ‘in' thing now - a global trend. It is one of the ways to save the environment. Two ways to go green are reducing or recyling trash and saving energy,” she said after a courtesy call by a delegation from Hilton Kota Kinabalu led by General Manager Linda Pecoraro.
Hilton Kota Kinabalu is one of the top 10 five-star hotels in the state capital. Christina, who is also Minister of Tourism, Culture and Environment, was impressed with the hotel's use of recyclable food containers for takeaways.
“This is one of the best practices in safeguarding our natural environment. Perhaps other hotels can emulate Hilton's initiative. I also understand that Hilton is the first major hotel chain to ban plastic straws globally,” she said.
According to Linda, the biodegradable items are locally sourced from West Malaysia through a Sabah distributor.
The minister was pleased to note that hotels in Sabah, including Hilton Kota Kinabalu, are also promoting the State's top attractions like Mount Kinabalu, Kinabalu National Park, Poring Hot Spring, Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre, Tunku Abdul Rahman Park islands, Mari-Mari Cultural Village and Lok Kawi Wildlife Park.
“With the anticipated influx of tourists in the years to come, there is a growing demand for five-star hotels. I hope existing and potential investors will take a cue from me, and consider building new hotels to meet the current shortage of rooms,” Christina added.
Meanwhile, Linda shared the story of her 25-year journey in the hospitality industry, starting in the housekeeping department, to ultimately become the general manager of Hilton Kota Kinabalu in January this year.
Her experiences with Hilton and other international hotel chains have made her an allrounder. Her recipe for success is being passionate, dynamic and driven as well as commitment to achieving excellent customer service.
“You need passion to do the job. You must have genuine love for people,” she said.
Also present were Sabah Tourism Board general manager Suzaini Datuk Sabdin Ghani, the hotel's customer relationship manager, Jeremy Kabinchong and commercial manager, Farah Hakim.