Latest news with #GillesCretallaz
Sinar Daily
05-07-2025
- Business
- Sinar Daily
Melaka's timeless allure, refined for a new generation of travelers
As Malaysia steadily draws the curtain open for Visit Malaysia 2026, few destinations shimmer with as much timeless allure and modern promise as Melaka. As new hotels begin to take root in Melaka's evolving tourism landscape, including a recent addition by Dusit International, Sinar Daily caught up with the brand's COO, Gilles Cretallaz, for a broader conversation on how heritage and hospitality can coexist in a city shaped by history. He observed that few places in Southeast Asia offer the kind of architectural preservation found in Melaka, a feature that continues to captivate both seasoned travellers and first-time visitors. For Cretallaz, Melaka's architectural integrity isn't just aesthetic — it's a rare link to the region's layered past, preserved in ways few Southeast Asian cities can still claim. "The history of Melaka is impressive. I always say that there's not so many places in Southeast Asia, where you still have these heritage buildings. Thanks to Unesco for supporting these sites," he said to Sinar Daily. Dusit International's Chief Operating Officer, Gilles Cretallaz As Malaysia gears up for Visit Malaysia 2026, Cretallaz envisions Melaka evolving further as a major tourist hub. He emphasised the importance of maintaining the city's historic core. 'The old city of Melaka is well-protected and that's crucial. Moving forward, we can enhance the experience by adding more authentic and interactive activities. "A sophisticated night market or opportunities for deeper engagement with local communities could elevate the visitor experience," he suggested. He also noted the promising potential for growth in the hospitality sector. 'More hotels will undoubtedly emerge, which is beneficial for the state and the local economy. It means more jobs for the community and greater support for tourism,' he said. Check out the Melaka Straits Mosque. Photo: Canva As efforts intensify for Visit Malaysia 2026, the city's bright future looks set to shine even more brilliantly on the global stage. What's new in Melaka: Fresh attractions and cultural gems to explore Melaka isn't just leaning on its laurels — it's actively reinventing itself to meet the tastes of modern travelers. Here's what you should explore: The Shore Sky Tower : The tallest building in Melaka, The Shore Sky Tower offers panoramic 360-degree views of the city and the Straits of Melaka. Brave the glass-bottomed Sky Deck for a thrilling perspective. Encore Melaka: This mesmerising 75-minute theatre show features 200 local performers and uses state-of-the-art 360-degree rotating audience seats to tell the story of Melaka's multicultural history. Mural art trails and street installations: New street art installations in areas beyond Jonker Walk, including Kampung Morten and Jalan Tukang Besi, invite Instagrammers and art lovers alike to explore deeper pockets of local creativity. Melaka river cruise 2.0: The river cruise has expanded with new commentary in multiple languages and curated night rides that show off Melaka's shimmering riverside like never before. A quaint Melaka boutique keeps tradition alive with its vibrant display of hand-embroidered Nyonya kebaya. Photo:Canva Pop-up night markets and artisan fairs: Seasonal markets are popping up across the city, offering artisanal food, handmade crafts, and live music. Keep an eye out for events in Dataran Pahlawan and Kota Laksamana. Revamped museums & heritage homes: Restorations at the Baba Nyonya Heritage Museum and the reopening of Villa Sentosa in Kampung Morten mean deeper cultural immersion is just a ticket away.
The Sun
03-07-2025
- Business
- The Sun
Dusit brings vibrant energy to the Maldives with a new all-inclusive resort near Malé designed for the young and the young at heart
MALÉ, MALDIVES - Media OutReach Newswire - 3 July 2025 – Dusit Hotels and Resorts, the hotel arm of Dusit International, one of Thailand's leading hotel and property development companies, is set to mark a major milestone with the opening of dusitD2 Feydhoo Maldives — the group's first all-inclusive lifestyle resort and its second Dusit-branded property in the country, complementing the luxury Dusit Thani Maldives. Set to soft open on 27 July 2025, dusitD2 Feydhoo Maldives is located on a pristine natural island just seven minutes by speedboat from Velana International Airport, Malé. The resort invites guests to experience a private escape defined by bold design, vibrant energy, and curated experiences, all thoughtfully crafted for modern travellers who value freedom, connection, and discovery in an inspiring setting. Fringed by a spacious lagoon and thriving coral reefs, the resort offers exceptional access to vibrant marine life and stunning dive sites — making it an ideal base for underwater exploration and ocean-inspired adventure. Blending beachfront charm with overwater serenity, the upscale resort features 127 spacious villas across seven distinct categories, ranging from 77 to 306 sq m. From tranquil beachfront retreats to expansive overwater sanctuaries, each villa is thoughtfully designed for modern comfort and style, with indoor-outdoor living spaces, private decks, and plunge pools in most categories. dusitD2 Feydhoo Maldives also introduces a fresh and modern take on the all-inclusive concept, with à la carte dining across five distinctive venues, unlimited premium beverages, daily entertainment, and generous resort credits for personalised indulgence. Whether guests choose to unwind at Namm Spa, join beachfront yoga sessions, or sip island-inspired cocktails at the rooftop bar, they'll find countless ways to connect, recharge, and play. From floating breakfasts and live DJ sets to snorkelling adventures and beach cinema nights, every experience is designed to spark joy and create lasting memories. For corporate retreats and incentive travel, the resort also offers a full-service conference facility for up to 240 guests, making it a compelling choice within easy reach of the capital. 'dusitD2 Feydhoo Maldives brings a bold new energy to the Maldives while staying true to Dusit's signature Thai-inspired gracious hospitality,' said Mr Gilles Cretallaz, Chief Operating Officer, Dusit International. 'Thoughtfully designed for the young and the young at heart, this vibrant, all-inclusive resort is more than just a place to stay; it's a lifestyle destination offering exceptional marine experiences, curated adventures, and effortless escapes in a stunning setting. It's a place where the spirit of discovery meets the comfort of modern, all-inclusive hospitality – perfect for travellers who want to do it all, or nothing at all.' To celebrate its soft opening, dusitD2 Feydhoo Maldives is offering an exclusive launch package featuring complimentary round-trip speedboat transfers for two, a complimentary upgrade to the next villa category, one signature floating breakfast per stay, 24-hour check-in and check-out, and more. Members of Dusit's enhanced loyalty and lifestyle programme, Dusit Gold — which can be activated online for free at — also enjoy 15% off member rates and exclusive privileges throughout their stay. Helmed by General Manager Yogeswaran Veerasamy — a seasoned hospitality professional with over two decades of experience in luxury resort operations across the Maldives and Southeast Asia — the resort is scheduled to celebrate its official grand opening in Q4 2025.
Sinar Daily
04-06-2025
- Business
- Sinar Daily
Melaka's new jewel: Dusit Princess brings Thai-inspired luxury to Unesco city
Combining modern sophistication with Thai-inspired gracious hospitality, this upscale hotel sets a new benchmark in Melaka's bustling hospitality scene. Combining modern sophistication with Thai-inspired gracious hospitality, this upscale hotel sets a new benchmark in Melaka's bustling hospitality scene. THE wait is over! Dusit Princess Melaka, Dusit International's first venture in Malaysia, has officially opened its doors, bringing a fresh wave of excitement to locals and travelers alike. Combining modern sophistication with Thai-inspired gracious hospitality, this upscale hotel sets a new benchmark in Melaka's bustling hospitality scene. Adding to the city's appeal as a top-tier destination for leisure and business, Dusit Princess Melaka also unveiled one of Melaka's largest meeting and event spaces. Formerly the Ramada Plaza Melaka, Dusit Princess launch was officiated by Melaka Governor, Tun Dr Mohd Ali Mohd Rustam. Situated in the heart of the Unesco World Heritage City, the 296-room property offers guests panoramic views of Melaka and the Straits of Melaka, alongside state-of-the-art facilities like the deepest swimming pool in the state, a 24-hour gym and unique dining experiences at Zest Restaurant, Long Feng Chinese Restaurant and the vibrant Famosa Lounge. This launch aligns perfectly with the city's ambitious tourism plans for UN Tourism 2025 and Visit Malaysia 2026. In 2024 alone, Melaka saw an impressive 74 per cent year-on-year increase in tourist arrivals, welcoming over 15 million visitors. These numbers reveals the city's growing appeal as a dynamic travel destination in Southeast Asia. Lada Phumas, Ambassador of Thailand to Malaysia (fourt from left), Melaka Governor Tun Dr Ali Rustam and Dusit International COO Gilles Cretallaz during the grand launch of Dusit Princess With a versatile 774-square-meter event space equipped with advanced LED technology, Dusit Princess Melaka is poised to host high-profile conferences, weddings and private events. Additionally, the hotel offers curated local experiences, immersing guests in Melaka's rich cultural, culinary and historical treasures. Dusit Princess Chief Operating Officer Gilles Cretallaz said the grand opening marks a significant milestone for Dusit, as they officially introduce the distinctive Thai-inspired gracious hospitality to Malaysia. "With its rich heritage, strategic location and forward-looking development plans, Melaka provides the ideal setting for our debut in the country. "Dusit Princess Melaka exemplifies our commitment to delivering warm, authentic and meaningful experiences and we are delighted to welcome guests from around the world, including delegates attending UN Tourism 2025, to experience the best of both Thai and Malaysian hospitality," he said. To celebrate its opening, Dusit Princess Melaka is offering a limited-time 'Melaka Retreat' package, featuring daily breakfast at Zest Restaurant, a MYR 50 daily dining credit, complimentary room upgrades (subject to availability), and a 15 per cent discount for Dusit Gold members. The offer is valid for bookings until January 4, 2026, with stays available immediately. For more details and reservations, visit [ or follow @dusitprincessmelaka on Facebook and Instagram.
Zawya
24-04-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Dusit International expands in China with signing of Dusit Hotel AG Park, Chengdu
Dusit brings its signature Thai-inspired gracious hospitality to Chengdu, home of giant pandas, Sichuan cuisine, and the world-renowned Sichuan Opera. BANGKOK, THAILAND – Media OutReach Newswire – 24 April 2025 - Dusit International, one of Thailand's leading hotel and property development companies, represented in China by Dusit Fudu Hotels and Resorts, has signed a hotel management agreement with Dongfang Nongbo (Chengdu) Commercial Operation Management Company Limited to operate Dusit Hotel AG Park, Chengdu – a serene retreat in one of China's most dynamic and culturally rich destinations, renowned for its vibrant street food, rich tea culture, and iconic giant pandas. Slated to open on 1 June 2025, the 250-key Dusit Hotel AG Park, Chengdu is located within the expansive Tianfu Agricultural Expo Park, just 30 minutes by car from both Chengdu city centre and Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport, and only 20 minutes from Xinjin high-speed rail station, which connects to key cities across Sichuan Province. Spanning approximately 2.7 square kilometres, Tianfu Agricultural Expo Park is a landmark development dedicated to high-tech agriculture, sustainable farming, and cultural tourism. Designed around the principles of innovation, harmony, and green development, the park integrates agricultural exhibitions, farming culture, scientific research, technology development, and leisure tourism into a seamless experience, making it a fitting location for Dusit's latest expansion. Guests will be able to choose from a range of private villas or spacious guest rooms set around beautifully maintained gardens. Enhancing the guest experience, the resort will offer a wealth of premium facilities, including an all-day dining restaurant with a farm-to-table focus, a specialty restaurant, a Chinese restaurant featuring eight private dining rooms, a stylish lobby lounge, an indoor swimming pool, a fully equipped gym, a dedicated kids' club, mahjong rooms, and a pillarless multi-functional conference hall with three versatile meeting rooms. Alongside Dusit's signature Thai-inspired gracious hospitality, the resort will also offer immersive experiences that connect guests with the best of the destination. These include curated dining experiences that reflect Chengdu's status as a UNESCO City of Gastronomy, visits to the world-renowned Sichuan Opera, where the mesmerising 'face-changing' performance sees actors seamlessly switch masks in seconds, and the opportunity to see giant pandas up close at the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, one of the city's most popular attractions. "With its rich culinary heritage, deep cultural traditions, and world-famous attractions, Chengdu is a destination like no other, and we are thrilled to introduce Dusit's signature gracious hospitality to this remarkable city," said Mr Gilles Cretallaz, Chief Operating Officer, Dusit International. "This signing underscores our commitment to thoughtful expansion in China, and we are excited to create a unique retreat where guests can immerse themselves in Chengdu's vibrant energy while enjoying the exceptional service and experiences that define Dusit." Mr Xiong Rui, Chairman, Dongfang Nongbo (Chengdu) Commercial Operation Management Company Limited, said, "Dusit Hotel AG Park, Chengdu, is poised to become a true landmark in the region, combining outstanding facilities with warm, personalised service. We look forward to creating a sanctuary where guests can relax, explore, and immerse themselves in the unique charm of Chengdu while enjoying the signature Dusit experience." Dusit International's portfolio now includes nearly 300 properties operating under eight brands across 18 countries. In China, the company currently operates seven hotels and has more than 20 properties in the pipeline. Hashtag: #dusitinternational The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement. About Dusit Hotels and Resorts Dusit Hotels and Resorts is the hotel arm of Dusit International, one of Thailand's leading hotel and property development companies. With a heartfelt belief and commitment to introducing Thai-inspired gracious hospitality to the world, Dusit Hotels and Resorts offers guests a uniquely special stay in high-style surroundings and a personalised approach to service. The group's portfolio of hotels, resorts and luxury villas includes nearly 300 properties operating under a total of eight brands (Devarana – Dusit Retreats, Dusit Thani, Dusit Suites, Dusit Collection, dusitD2, Dusit Princess, ASAI Hotels, and Elite Havens) across 18 countries worldwide. For more information, please visit About Dusit International Established in 1948, Dusit International or Dusit Thani Public Company Limited (DUSIT) is a leading hospitality group listed on the Stock Exchange of Thailand. Its operations comprise five distinct yet complementary business units: Dusit Hotels and Resorts, Dusit Hospitality Education, Dusit Foods, Dusit Estate, and Hospitality-Related Services. Dusit International's diversified investments in real estate development, hospitality-related services, and the food sector are part of its long-term strategy for sustainable growth, which focuses on three key areas: balance, expansion and diversification. For more information, please visit Official photos of Dusit Hotels & Resorts can be downloaded at Dusit International
Malay Mail
24-04-2025
- Business
- Malay Mail
Dusit International expands in China with signing of Dusit Hotel AG Park, Chengdu
Dusit brings its signature Thai-inspired gracious hospitality to Chengdu, home of giant pandas, Sichuan cuisine, and the world-renowned Sichuan Opera. Dusit Hotel AG Park, Chengdu is set to open on 1 June 2025. BANGKOK, THAILAND – Media OutReach Newswire – 24 April 2025 - Dusit International, one of Thailand's leading hotel and property development companies, represented in China by Dusit Fudu Hotels and Resorts, has signed a hotel management agreement with Dongfang Nongbo (Chengdu) Commercial Operation Management Company Limited to operate Dusit Hotel AG Park, Chengdu – a serene retreat in one of China's most dynamic and culturally rich destinations, renowned for its vibrant street food, rich tea culture, and iconic giant to open on 1 June 2025, the 250-key Dusit Hotel AG Park, Chengdu is located within the expansive Tianfu Agricultural Expo Park, just 30 minutes by car from both Chengdu city centre and Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport, and only 20 minutes from Xinjin high-speed rail station, which connects to key cities across Sichuan approximately 2.7 square kilometres, Tianfu Agricultural Expo Park is a landmark development dedicated to high-tech agriculture, sustainable farming, and cultural tourism. Designed around the principles of innovation, harmony, and green development, the park integrates agricultural exhibitions, farming culture, scientific research, technology development, and leisure tourism into a seamless experience, making it a fitting location for Dusit's latest will be able to choose from a range of private villas or spacious guest rooms set around beautifully maintained gardens. Enhancing the guest experience, the resort will offer a wealth of premium facilities, including an all-day dining restaurant with a farm-to-table focus, a specialty restaurant, a Chinese restaurant featuring eight private dining rooms, a stylish lobby lounge, an indoor swimming pool, a fully equipped gym, a dedicated kids' club, mahjong rooms, and a pillarless multi-functional conference hall with three versatile meeting Dusit's signature Thai-inspired gracious hospitality, the resort will also offer immersive experiences that connect guests with the best of the destination. These include curated dining experiences that reflect Chengdu's status as a UNESCO City of Gastronomy, visits to the world-renowned Sichuan Opera, where the mesmerising 'face-changing' performance sees actors seamlessly switch masks in seconds, and the opportunity to see giant pandas up close at the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, one of the city's most popular attractions."With its rich culinary heritage, deep cultural traditions, and world-famous attractions, Chengdu is a destination like no other, and we are thrilled to introduce Dusit's signature gracious hospitality to this remarkable city," said Mr Gilles Cretallaz, Chief Operating Officer, Dusit International. "This signing underscores our commitment to thoughtful expansion in China, and we are excited to create a unique retreat where guests can immerse themselves in Chengdu's vibrant energy while enjoying the exceptional service and experiences that define Dusit."Mr Xiong Rui, Chairman, Dongfang Nongbo (Chengdu) Commercial Operation Management Company Limited, said, "Dusit Hotel AG Park, Chengdu, is poised to become a true landmark in the region, combining outstanding facilities with warm, personalised service. We look forward to creating a sanctuary where guests can relax, explore, and immerse themselves in the unique charm of Chengdu while enjoying the signature Dusit experience."Dusit International's portfolio now includes nearly 300 properties operating under eight brands across 18 countries. In China, the company currently operates seven hotels and has more than 20 properties in the #dusitinternational The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement. About Dusit Hotels and Resorts Dusit Hotels and Resorts is the hotel arm of Dusit International, one of Thailand's leading hotel and property development companies. With a heartfelt belief and commitment to introducing Thai-inspired gracious hospitality to the world, Dusit Hotels and Resorts offers guests a uniquely special stay in high-style surroundings and a personalised approach to service. The group's portfolio of hotels, resorts and luxury villas includes nearly 300 properties operating under a total of eight brands (Devarana – Dusit Retreats, Dusit Thani, Dusit Suites, Dusit Collection, dusitD2, Dusit Princess, ASAI Hotels, and Elite Havens) across 18 countries worldwide. For more information, please visit About Dusit International Established in 1948, Dusit International or Dusit Thani Public Company Limited (DUSIT) is a leading hospitality group listed on the Stock Exchange of Thailand. Its operations comprise five distinct yet complementary business units: Dusit Hotels and Resorts, Dusit Hospitality Education, Dusit Foods, Dusit Estate, and Hospitality-Related Services. Dusit International's diversified investments in real estate development, hospitality-related services, and the food sector are part of its long-term strategy for sustainable growth, which focuses on three key areas: balance, expansion and diversification. For more information, please visit Official photos of Dusit Hotels & Resorts can be downloaded at
