As Visit Malaysia 2027 approaches, MAH Selangor is stepping up industry collaboration, closer engagement with government and efforts to unlock new opportunities for the state’s hospitality and tourism sector.
PETALING JAYA, 29 October 2026 — Selangor’s hotel industry is looking to strengthen collaboration across the hospitality and tourism sectors as Malaysia gears up for Visit Malaysia 2027 (VM2027), with closer industry ties and stronger engagement with government agencies expected to play a key role, according to the Malaysian Association of Hotels (MAH) Selangor Chapter.
The chapter hosted about 120 hotel General Managers, industry partners, government representatives and tourism stakeholders at Hilton Petaling Jaya, where members also reflected on the year’s achievements and looked ahead to opportunities for the sector.
Datin Jasmine Abdullah Heng, Chairperson of the MAH Selangor Chapter, said the hospitality industry might comprise competing hotels and brands, but its members faced many of the same challenges.
“We may represent different hotels and brands, and naturally, we compete for business. But at the end of the day, we are all part of the same hospitality family,” she said.
She said this made collaboration and the sharing of knowledge particularly important, with MAH providing a platform for members to connect, exchange ideas and support one another.
“We face many of the same challenges, and there is so much we can learn from one another. Sometimes, a simple conversation with a fellow GM can provide a solution to a problem that has been keeping us awake at night,” she said.
MAH Selangor Steps Up Member Engagement
Over the past year, MAH Selangor organised six training programmes, five sporting events and two corporate social responsibility initiatives, reflecting its focus on professional development, member engagement and community contribution.
The chapter also strengthened member engagement through three subcommittees covering Human Resources, Sales & Marketing, and Safety & Security.
The platforms allow members to exchange expertise, discuss common operational challenges and identify opportunities for collaboration across the industry.
The chapter has also continued engaging relevant government agencies on issues affecting the hospitality and tourism sectors.
Datin Jasmine said the work of hoteliers was demanding, with operators having to constantly respond to changing market conditions while maintaining service standards.
“As hoteliers, we all know that running a hotel is never easy. Every day brings something new,” she said.
“When occupancy is high, we worry about manpower. When occupancy is low, we worry about the bottom line. And when everything seems to be going well, we wonder what we may have overlooked.”
She said the ability to adapt, solve problems and support one another was critical in an industry where people remained at the heart of the guest experience.
Looking Ahead To VM2027
With Visit Malaysia 2027 approaching, the Selangor chapter sees opportunities for hotels and tourism stakeholders to work more closely to attract visitors, develop new experiences and strengthen the state’s position as an important tourism destination.
Datin Jasmine said the industry should use the opportunity to showcase Malaysia’s hospitality offerings while continuing to improve the visitor experience.
“Let us continue to work together to attract more visitors to Selangor, develop innovative experiences, deliver memorable guest experiences and strengthen our industry,” she said.
The chapter will continue to focus on member development, industry advocacy, marketing and promotional initiatives, as well as closer collaboration with Tourism Selangor, the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture (MOTAC) and other industry stakeholders.
Stronger Connections Across The Industry
The year-end gathering also provided an opportunity for hotel leaders and industry partners to step away from the day-to-day demands of hotel operations and reconnect with colleagues across the sector.
Organising Chairman Aaron Tan said strong partnerships between hotels, industry stakeholders and government agencies would remain important to the continued growth of Malaysia’s tourism and hospitality sector.
“Strong partnerships and close collaboration among hotels, industry stakeholders and government agencies are essential to the continued growth of Malaysia’s tourism and hospitality sector,” he said.
He said platforms that brought industry leaders together allowed them to strengthen relationships, exchange ideas and work towards shared goals.
The evening featured food, music and lucky draws, but more importantly provided an informal setting for members and partners to renew relationships built throughout the year.
For Datin Jasmine, those relationships are among the industry’s greatest strengths.
“As we come to nearly the end of another year, I hope we can take a moment to appreciate not only what we have achieved, but also the friendships we have built along the way,” she said.
As the hospitality industry prepares for a potentially stronger tourism environment in 2027, MAH Selangor is expected to continue advocating for its members while encouraging greater collaboration and the sharing of best practices across the sector.
Its guiding principle — People First. Stronger Connections. Better Together. — reflects the chapter’s focus on bringing hospitality professionals together and building a more resilient and sustainable industry. – NMH
Datin Hasnah is the co-founder and CEO of New Malaysia Herald based in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
With an extensive background in mass communication and journalism, she works on building up New Malaysia Herald and it’s partner sites. A tireless and passionate evangalist, she champions autism studies and support groups.
Datin Hasnah is also the Editor in Chief of New Malaysia Herald.
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