Malaysia’s first voco hotel recently opened in Kuching. The 321-room hotel is an integral part of Wisma Elica, which also includes Care Collective, East Malaysia's largest senior wellness centre. This is Malaysia's first property opening under the globally recognised voco Hotels by IHG Hotels & Resorts brand.
The development represents more than the revitalisation of the former Four Points by Sheraton and Century Hotel. Bringing voco Kuching and Care Collective together under one roof, it creates a destination where hospitality, wellness, lifestyle and community converge while generating economic value and meaningful social impact.
Officially declaring Wisma Elica open, the Sarawak Premier described the development as a statement of confidence in the East Malaysian state and its future, as well as a revitalising and repurposing of the former hotel property. The premier added that the opening marked a major milestone for Sarawak's tourism and hospitality industry while showcasing the state's continued confidence in sustainable investment, urban regeneration and international partnerships. Furthermore, the hotel’s opening was an important addition to the state's premium hospitality landscape, strengthening Kuching's position as a destination for various tourism segments, including leisure, business, events and conferences.
Contemporary Design and Features
Each room features the latest technology, including complimentary Wi-Fi and smart televisions. Every room includes a bathtub, filtered drinking water and design details inspired by Sarawak's culture. The property includes a pool, gym, sauna, ballroom, retail shop, restaurant, lobby café/bar and a speakeasy.
Designed by hospitality specialists SL+A Hotels, voco Kuching draws inspiration from Sarawak's cultural heritage through contemporary interiors, thoughtful design and locally inspired experiences. The redevelopment also features a redesigned façade by Neuman Studio and One Design Office, transforming the building into a contemporary landmark while respecting its architectural heritage.
The grand opening also marked the launch of Sarawak's first Tesla Destination Charging hub at the hotel, reinforcing voco Kuching's commitment to supporting sustainable travel and future-ready hospitality.
A Shared Vision
voco is IHG’s fastest-growing premium brand, with more than 235 hotels operating or in the pipeline worldwide. The brand offers travellers authentic experiences, distinctive design, warm hospitality and a personality that reflects the destination in which it operates. Each property is encouraged to embrace its identity while delivering the trusted quality and exceptional service guests expect from IHG.
Speaking on behalf of IHG Hotels & Resorts, Rajit Sukumaran, Senior Vice President & Managing Director, East Asia & Pacific, said the partnership with Elica Equity was founded on a shared vision rather than merely developing another hotel.
‘What makes a successful hotel is not just a beautiful building or a globally recognised brand. It is finding partners who share the same values, commitment and long-term outlook. From our very first conversations with the owner, Dato Bobby Ting and his team, it was clear that the project was not simply another hotel development.’
Sukumaran added that voco Kuching demonstrates how international hospitality expertise can be combined with local identity to create a destination that is distinctive, authentic and meaningful to both travellers and the community.
The Kuching property reflects the passion and commitment of a team determined to create a destination that contributes meaningfully to both Kuching and Sarawak.
Emerging Borneo
The hotel opening also reinforces Kuching's emergence as one of Borneo's leading destinations for tourism, business events and international investment.
It brings together contemporary design, thoughtful hospitality and the warmth that both the voco brand and the people of Sarawak are known for. It also reflects a broader vision that extends beyond hospitality to meet evolving community needs.
The premier reiterated that the government’s vision is for Sarawak to become a prosperous, innovative and sustainable economy. He noted that while the government can provide direction and infrastructure, the vision is transformed into reality through partnerships with the private sector.
Since opening in June, the hotel has quickly established itself as a refreshingly different destination for business travellers, leisure guests and local Sarawakians, and it has already hosted major international events.
Although only minutes from Kuching International Airport, the hotel is around 15 minutes from Kuching's historic city centre, bustling Chinatown, colonial landmarks and the Sarawak River. Other attractions within easy reach include Damai Beach, Sarawak Cultural Village, the famous Weekend Market and Semenggoh Orang Utan Centre.
Report by David Bowden
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