The Malaysian Association of Hotels’ Johor Chapter Committee has established the HASA (Hotel Awesome Service Award) 2024, the first of its kind among state chapters, to inspire exceptional service among hotel personnel by recognising and celebrating outstanding customer service. 45 of them, chosen by their individual hotel Human Resource Managers / Directors, were there to receive Certificates of Excellence from MAH as well as gifts from Ivan Teo, Chairman of the Johor Chapter.
“Manpower is being challenged in Johor’s hotel industry as there has been an exodus of experienced hotel workers to Singapore, in preference of the favourable exchange rates,” said Teo.
“The HASA Award is unlike the usual Employee of the Year Award because its criteria for winning is specific to the extra mile that hotel employees will go to ensure comfort or provide a memorable experience to guests staying at their respective hotels. The way we recognise them aims to value-add to their resume thereby distinguishing them within the industry that would ensure longevity and growth in their hotel careers,” he added.
The state government has declared 2026 to be Visit Johor Year, with the goal of attracting 12 million local and foreign tourists. In line with this, the MAH Johor Chapter’s goal is to prepare for it by ensuring that member hotels provide high-quality service, leaving tourists with lasting impressions. The award will raise awareness of hotel careers in the Johor community, increasing professionalism and attracting more talent while ensuring they remain employed in hotels.
The HASA Award is non-competitive. Out of the 17 hotel employees, 10 of the most outstanding champions will be honoured at the MAH Annual Gala Dinner which will be held on 29th October 2024 at Pulai Springs Resort. The additional factors for consideration for the invitation to the annual dinner would be the length of service, the number of training hours achieved, and the extent of exceptional service beyond the call of duty.
According to Petrus Leong, a MAH committee member who created the HASA Award and a veteran in hotel training and human resources, the award will be an annual recognition programme for Johor’s hotel employees and will be enhanced each year to ensure its relevance and significance.
