I first mentioned the Mövenpick Hotel & Convention Centre KLIA in a round-up of the group’s properties set to open this year. And now with the July opening of the 333 room property just around the corner, Mövenpick has selected Hairul Maharis as the new general manager.

The new hotel and dedicated convention centre (built by the Malaysian government) has some wonderful attributes including some very impressive MICE facilities, such as the 2300 sqm main hall, 1200 sqm of open exhibition space — for large-scale exhibitions and events — plus a 777 sqm circular hall. Not to mention 17 meeting rooms for business meetings and the 180 sqm covered veranda for outdoor gatherings.

Describing his new hire Mövenpick’s president for Asia, Mark Willis (himself, still a relatively new addition to the company having joined the organisation at the beginning of the year) said: “With his proven track record of international hospitality excellence, airport hotel operations and successful openings, Hairul Maharis is the perfect choice for Mövenpick Hotel & Convention Centre KLIA.”

“I am certain his abundant talent, extensive experience and vibrant personality will make a difference for guests and team members at Mövenpick Hotel & Convention Centre KLIA,” he added.

Maharis (below), a veteran hotelier, who has worked in the industry since graduating from the University of Derby in the UK in 1994, has been a GM for Suria Resorts Management, Tune Hotel at Klia2 and his most recent role was manager of the Istanbul, ISG Airport Hotel.

“I am delighted to take on the role of general manager at Mövenpick Hotel & Convention Centre KLIA, which is a significant new hotel for Malaysia. With its unique location and world-class amenities, the hotel is a natural venue for major events and also offers a convenient base for business travellers visiting Kuala Lumpur. We look forward to welcoming our first guests and event delegates in the coming months,” said Hairul.

Mövenpick Hotel & Convention Centre KLIA really does look the business as a MICE location. And is bound to cause a stir in the already super competitive meetings and events sector in Kuala Lumpur, when it opens in a few weeks time. More details coming soon.

Click here to learn more about Mövenpick properties set to open in Asia this year.