IHG's voco Hotels Make Debut in Kuching

IHG Brings voco to Kuching

IHG Hotels & Resorts has announced the introduction of its premium brand, voco hotels, in Malaysia with the opening of voco Kuching, a 321-room hotel. In collaboration with Elica Equity Sdn Bhd, a leading real estate developer in Malaysia, voco Kuching is set to open in 2026 as part of a 12-storey mixed-use development. This will mark IHG’s first hotel in Sarawak and its return to Kuching after a 16-year absence.

The hotel will be redeveloped from the independent Century Hotel and will be part of voco hotels, IHG’s fastest-growing premium brand, which aims to provide a hotel experience that is consistently thoughtful and distinct. voco Kuching will contribute to a growing portfolio of 80 voco hotels globally, joining the 77 properties that have already opened.

Patrick Finn, Vice President, Development, South East Asia & Korea, IHG Hotels & Resorts, said: “We cannot wait to introduce voco hotels to Kuching. The opportunity to collaborate with Dato Bobby and the Elica team to bring the first voco hotel to Malaysia is truly a cause for celebration. I am confident that voco Kuching will be a fantastic property for Elica and IHG in Malaysia, and also a building block in the economies of Kuching and Sarawak.

“These are exciting times for IHG in Malaysia as we are on track to almost double our estate in the next few years with a pipeline of fantastic hotels that include the debut of voco hotels and luxury & lifestyle brands Regent and Kimpton.

“Together with Elica Equity Sdn. Bdn, we are committed to bringing voco hotels’ signature delightful and uplifting experiences to the market and attracting more visitors to this beautiful destination in South East Asia.”

Dato Bobby Ting, Director of Elica Equity, said, "At Elica, we’ve always been driven by a pioneering spirit, pushing the boundaries of innovation in property development.

“Today, we are incredibly proud to bring the first voco hotel to Malaysia, right here in Kuching. We hope that this hotel not only fulfils our joint vision but also sets a new standard, inspiring future voco properties throughout Malaysia. This partnership has been a dream, aligning perfectly with our shared ambition to breathe new life into this property."

voco Kuching will provide a warm atmosphere that reflects the essence of the voco hotels brand. It combines charm, comfort, and a premium stay experience with the trust of a global brand. This will offer visitors a relaxing base to explore the wonders of Sarawak.

Located just a 15-minute drive from the city centre and only five minutes from Kuching International Airport, the facilities at voco Kuching will include a swimming pool, an all-day dining restaurant, a café, a lounge, and a fitness centre. Additionally, the hotel will feature over 2,400 square meters of meeting spaces, including a ballroom that can accommodate up to 1,300 guests and various function rooms that will enhance the MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) scene in Kuching.

Kuching, a popular destination for its rich culture and biodiversity, is on track to reach its target of 4 million tourist arrivals this year, matching pre-pandemic levels from 2019. The growing tourism sector has been bolstered by increased flight routes across Asia, improved infrastructure for tourism facilities and attractions, and the hosting of major events and festivals, such as the annual Rainforest Music Festival, which celebrates world music.

Other popular leisure activities in the area include visiting the Sarawak Cultural Village, a living museum located just an hour from the hotel, and hiking at Mount Santubung, known for its lush rainforests.

IHG currently operates 10 hotels in Malaysia across five brands: InterContinental, Crowne Plaza, Hotel Indigo, Holiday Inn, and Holiday Inn Express. The company is set to introduce three new brands, including voco hotels, Regent, and Kimpton.