On behalf of the Tradewinds Corporation Group, let me extend a very warm welcome to all present here today to witness the setting of another milestone in the history of one of Kuala Lumpur 's finest - Hotel Istana. Your presence at this auspicious evening adds to the significance of this special occasion.

I would like to extend our deepest appreciation to Yang Berhormat Datuk Seri Tengku Adnan Tengku Mansor for taking time off his pressing schedule to be with us this evening and so kindly accepted our invitation to officially mark the reintroduction of Hotel Istana Kuala Lumpur.

I can also see many of our supporters are here this evening, thank you.

Yang Berhormat Datuk Seri,

I would like to take this opportunity to thank Yang Berhormat Datuk Seri and your Ministry for a sterling endeavour to promote Malaysia as a tourism destination to the world. The recently won award for being the top choice summer destination received in Dubai , UAE attests to Yang Berhormat's commitment to our tourism industry and specifically, the Visit Malaysia Year 2007.

It was no coincidence that the re-introduction of Hotel Istana is timed to take place during the same year as Visit Malaysia Year and our nation's 50th birthday. We knew it was an opportune time to reposition the brand in the marketplace and at the same time, harmonize our aspirations with the tourism goals set by the Government.

Ladies and gentlemen,

Although we are here this evening to witness the re-introduction of a rejuvenated and refreshed Hotel Istana, one that will craft Hotel Istana as the preferred brand in Kuala Lumpur, it's only befitting that we re-visit the rich tradition of this “palace” amongst hotels, which brought Malaysian-styled hospitality to the forefront.

Many of us would identify this grand hotel with royalty-like comforts and the embodiment of elegance. The first brick was laid in January 1990 and in 1992 August, the doors to a new era in hospitality opened. Soon after, awards and accolades rolled in. From being awarded for our beautiful hotel landscapes to our fashionable club Musictheque receiving honours for the best entertainment outlet, Hotel Istana proved to be a successful marriage between modern amenities and rich cultural heritage. Hotel Istana lived up to its name, offering only the best to our guests. It was indeed a welcome addition to the discerning and executive class travellers to Kuala Lumpur

We have housed many distinguished personalities from royalty to heads of state and international celebrities. We are privileged to have the likes of Sultan of Brunei and Nelson Mandela and I was told that very recently, the United States ' Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice did a piano recital in our ballroom. We also welcomed celebrities such as Julio Iglesias and Bollywood heartthrobs Shah Rukh Khan, Amitabh Bachan and his new daughter-in- law, Aiswarya Rai.

15 years on, and we are glad to see that Hotel Istana has developed a reputable brand name in the local scene. But even so, TRADEWINDS recognised that for a five-star property such as the Hotel Istana to continue enjoying success in a very competitive environment, the time had come for a refurbishment programme to ensure the legacy continues. Hence in late 2005, a well-designed refurbishment exercise was initiated. It was executed in phases, which carefully considered the comfort and enjoyment of our guests.

Ladies and Gentlemen,

The refurbishment exercise in many ways show that Hotel Istana is moving in tandem with customer trend and needs. On that note, I am pleased to announce that upon completion of the refurbishment exercise, our rooms are now revitalised, and geared for the astute upscale market.

Upgrading our facilities was also a priority with the fitness centre, swimming pool, coffee house and the lounge area where we are standing, have enjoyed massive facelifts to create a vibrant atmosphere. In addition, the former Italian restaurant has now been converted to a chic upscale modern Australian-themed restaurant. Urban Bistro, as it is known, is blend of trendy cuisine and contemporary ambience and is the culinary centre of Hotel Istana.

After more than one year of refurbishment, Hotel Istana is now ready to re-acquaint with the corporate and travel sectors. Equipped with renewed vigour, our service dictum ¾ “comfort and elegance, as you want it” accurately speaks of our intent to offer guests superior experience, be it for business or leisure.

Ladies and Gentlemen,

The refurbishment of Hotel Istana Kuala Lumpur was conducted most smoothly under the stewardship of Encik Shaharul Farez Hassan, the CEO of Tradewinds Hotels & Resorts. Overseeing the development of our chain of hotels, including the concurrent renovation of our resort in Penang and the construction of a 5-star hotel in Hanoi , Vietnam is no easy feat. My gratitude and best wishes goes out to Farez and his team. Well, done!

Ladies and Gentlemen,

Before I end, allow me to record my sincere appreciation to YB Datuk Seri Tengku Adnan Tengku Mansor, for his gracious presence and for sharing this memorable evening with us.

I also wish to thank the distinguished guests and members of media who have consistently supported us and for being here with us this exciting evening. Your presence and constant support truly means a great deal to us.

To our supporters and agents, a refreshingly warm and contemporary Hotel Istana awaits your patronage. Hope that all of you will have an enjoyable and memorable time with us. We look forward to your continuous support, and once again a big thank you.