The hotel industry in Malaysia has taken one of the hardest hits ever since the Movement Control Order (MCO) was implemented. Since then, many hotels have announced their closure for good after failing to keep in business.
Adding to the list, Holiday Inn Resort in Penang will be closing down after four decades in operation.
According to NST, the Hong Kong-based Harilela Group – via Asia Garden Sdn Bhd – announced that the four-star family resort will be shutting down by 30 June 2020.
“As you are aware, the company has carried out extensive cost management measures since Covid-19 was declared a global pandemic on March 11,” Jeff Yap, Asia Garden manager said.
“It has had many implications around the world with the travel, hotel and leisure sectors being particularly impacted and our hotel is no different.”
Holiday Inn Resort has two buildings along Batu Ferringhi, with one facing the sea and the other just across the street backed by the hills.
Jeff Yap said that they had been monitoring the market and prospects of their business and the matter was deliberated further as Malaysia moved into the Recovery Movement Control Order (RMCO), reported The Star.
“After extensive consideration, it is with regret that we advise that our hotel will cease operations from June 30,” he said.
“This has been an extremely difficult decision for our owners who have been committed to Penang for over 40 years.”
“The magnitude of this crisis has proven to be overwhelming and the continuation of business is no longer a viable proposition.”
With no indication to employees on severance entitlements or benefits, he ended the message and thanked them for their service and wished them well.
“We thank you for your service with us and we wish you well in your future undertakings and that you stay safe in this challenging period,” he said.
Goodbye Holiday Inn Resort. You will be missed.
Also read: These 7 Famous Hotels In Malaysia That Have Shut Down For Good Due To Covid-19
