Hotels in Kota Kinabalu unite to celebrate International Women’s Day

18 April 2026

KOTA KINABALU: While International Women’s Day (IWD) is officially marked on 8 March each year, the momentum behind the movement continues long after the date.

In the spirit of that ongoing commitment, Sheraton Kota Kinabalu and Le Méridien Kota Kinabalu recently held a joint event to honour IWD and reaffirm their support for accelerating gender parity and celebrating women’s social, economic, cultural and political achievements.

The event, hosted by Sheraton Kota Kinabalu, featured a lavish Western‑style luncheon and an insightful panel session centred on the 2026 theme “Give to Gain”.

Led by Nauman Hasan, General Manager of Sheraton Kota Kinabalu, and Suresh Ramasamy, General Manager of Le Méridien Kota Kinabalu, the gathering brought together more than 60 associates and industry leaders to discuss female empowerment and community contribution.

Nauman welcomed guests and team members with a heartfelt message, “It is truly an honour to host you all today to celebrate International Women’s Day 2026, a global occasion that recognises the achievements, resilience and leadership of our female colleagues and friends, while reminding us of our collective responsibility to build a more inclusive and equitable future.”

To the panel speakers, he added, “Your presence today not only reflects your leadership and influence, but also your commitment to meaningful and shared progress.”

He then guided an empowering and interactive session featuring a distinguished panel, including Datuk Josie Lai, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Environment, Sabah; Datuk Ir. Peter Chu, CEO of TP Group; and Charlene Chan, General Manager of Sheraton Kuching.

Each speaker shared valuable advice, inspiring stories of their personal journeys and perspectives on how professional success and community giving are closely linked.

Also joining the conversation were the Executive Committee of Sheraton Kota Kinabalu and special guests from TP Group, Erica Lim, Louise Lim, Isabel Chu and Emily Chong.

The venue was elegantly transformed for the occasion, with the function room adorned in purple linens and fresh orchids to reflect the official IWD colours.

The event concluded with a networking session, bringing together associates from various departments of both Sheraton and Le Méridien Kota Kinabalu.

“Across every department, women stand as a vital driving force. Their leadership and dedication don’t just shape our hospitality—they define the very heart of the guest journey,” said Suresh Ramasamy, General Manager of Le Méridien Kota Kinabalu.