Nestled within the iconic Merdeka 118 — the tallest building in Southeast Asia — stands Malaysia’s first-ever Park Hyatt Kuala Lumpur. This towering skyscraper, set against the panoramic city skyline, seamlessly blends modernity with tradition. At the helm of this luxurious property is Herman Kemp, the General Manager of Park Hyatt Kuala Lumpur, with over 20 years of experience in the hospitality industry. Inspired by his parents’ passion for the hospitality field, Kemp pursued formal education at the prestigious Hotelschool The Hague. Over the years, he has held several key positions within Hyatt Hotels Corporation’s most esteemed properties, earning a reputation as a leader to watch.
Driven by the belief that “hospitality is about people,” Kemp is committed to delivering exquisite guest experiences by understanding their needs, anticipating their desires, and exceeding their expectations — a vision that defines the essence of Park Hyatt Kuala Lumpur. Join us as we explore Kemp’s journey, his insights on establishing a world-class property in Malaysia’s vibrant capital, and the hotel’s luxurious offerings that promise a truly unique experience for every guest.
Exclusive Interview with Herman Kemp: General Manager of Malaysia’s First Park Hyatt in Kuala Lumpur
Could you share your journey in the hospitality industry with us?
I began my journey in hospitality at the age of 16, working part-time at my father’s restaurant as a waiter and bartender. The excitement of serving guests and the vibrant energy of the industry quickly captivated me. My first full-time role was aboard cruise ships with Holland America Line, an experience that taught me the importance of adaptability and a global perspective. Motivated by my parents, who were deeply passionate about hospitality, I decided to pursue this career path wholeheartedly. Over the last two decades, I’ve been privileged to work across various roles, continents, and cultures, each enriching my understanding of what it means to create meaningful guest experiences.
We understand that your parents’ passion for hospitality inspired you to pursue a career in the hotel industry. Could you share more insights about this?
Hospitality was woven into my life from a young age. My father spent his career in the industry, sharing stories about his adventures on cruise ships, while my mother taught English at a hospitality school. Their love for the industry and the joy they derived from making others feel welcomed and valued resonated deeply with me. It was their combined passion that sparked my curiosity and later my dedication to this field. Their influence taught me that hospitality is not just a career; it’s a way of life that revolves around empathy, excellence, and the human connection.
Having worked with Hyatt for almost a decade, how has your experience with the brand shaped your approach to managing Park Hyatt Kuala Lumpur?
Hyatt has been instrumental in shaping my leadership style and understanding of luxury hospitality. The brand’s unwavering commitment to delivering personalized and meaningful guest experiences aligns perfectly with my philosophy. Throughout my years with Hyatt, I’ve embraced values like intellectual honesty, humility, and innovative thinking, which I carry into every decision I make at Park Hyatt Kuala Lumpur. This role, in particular, is an exciting challenge, as it allows me to combine my experience with the unique opportunities presented by this iconic property.
As someone who has traveled globally, what makes Malaysia feel like home to you? What excites you most about your journey with Park Hyatt Kuala Lumpur?
Malaysia’s rich cultural diversity and warm hospitality make it incredibly welcoming. Its unique blend of traditions and modernity creates an environment that feels both vibrant and familiar. What excites me most about my journey with Park Hyatt Kuala Lumpur is the opportunity to showcase this beautiful culture on a global stage. Leading the team in such a landmark property, located in the iconic Merdeka 118, is an honor, and I’m inspired every day to deliver experiences that reflect Malaysia’s warmth and sophistication.
You’re an avid runner and participate in international marathons. How do the values of dedication, consistency, and determination from running translate into your leadership style?
Running has taught me that consistency and discipline are essential for long-term success, and I apply these principles to my leadership style. Marathons require focus, preparation, and resilience — qualities I rely on to navigate the dynamic world of hospitality. Just as every mile in a race counts, every interaction, decision, and initiative contributes to the overall guest experience. Running also provides me with clarity and perspective, allowing me to lead with purpose and encourage my team to strive for excellence.
You’ve mentioned that hospitality is about understanding and exceeding people’s expectations. How does this philosophy influence the personalized service at Park Hyatt Kuala Lumpur?
Exceeding expectations begins with deeply understanding our guests — who they are, what they value, and how we can anticipate their needs. At Park Hyatt Kuala Lumpur, this philosophy manifests in every detail, from thoughtfully designed spaces to tailored services. Our team takes pride in creating moments that feel bespoke and memorable, ensuring every guest leaves with a story to tell. By placing the guest at the heart of every decision, we transform hospitality into an art form.
What unique experiences can guests expect from Park Hyatt Kuala Lumpur that set it apart from other luxury hotels in the city?
Park Hyatt Kuala Lumpur offers an unparalleled blend of luxury and authenticity. From the refined interiors inspired by Malaysia’s rich heritage to the innovative dining concepts that showcase local and global flavors, every detail is designed to captivate the senses. Our sky-high location in Merdeka 118 provides breathtaking views, offering guests a sense of tranquility amid the city’s dynamic energy. It’s this seamless combination of elegance, culture, and personalized service that truly sets us apart.
Park Hyatt Kuala Lumpur is located in the iconic Merdeka 118, the tallest building in Southeast Asia. How does the hotel’s location enhance the experience you aim to offer your guests?
Our location in Merdeka 118 is more than a geographical advantage — it’s an experience in itself. As the tallest building in Southeast Asia, it provides panoramic views of Kuala Lumpur’s skyline, creating an awe-inspiring backdrop for our guests. This iconic setting allows us to elevate every aspect of the stay, from dining to wellness, making each moment extraordinary. It’s a privilege to operate in a space that not only symbolizes progress but also provides a canvas for unparalleled luxury.
Park Hyatt Kuala Lumpur is renowned for its innovative dining concepts and world-class wellness facilities. Could you share any upcoming dining or wellness experiences that guests can look forward to?
We’re constantly evolving to surprise and delight our guests. In the coming months, we’re introducing a series of curated dining experiences that celebrate Malaysia’s culinary diversity, paired with global influences. On the wellness front, we’re launching exclusive treatments inspired by traditional healing practices, combined with modern therapies. These initiatives reflect our commitment to offering experiences that are not only luxurious but also deeply rooted in authenticity and well-being.
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