KUCHING: Hilton Kuching has returned this year with its annual Ramadan buffet, themed “Meriahnya Ramadan, Diraikan Bersama”, with a renewed focus on quality, variety and community experience.
To be held at its Grand Ballroom from Feb 23 to March 15, the buffet continued the hotel’s long-standing tradition of hosting large-scale breaking-of-fast gatherings tailored for corporate groups, government agencies and families.
General manager Adrian Teh said preparations for the Ramadan campaign begin as early as six to nine months in advance to ensure each year’s offering surpasses the last.
“For us, what we always try to do at Hilton is to make sure that we elevate year on year to ensure that the quality of the ingredients are much better and the variety is also equally supported with that ethos,” he told Sarawak Tribune.
He added that while the hotel aims for strong bookings, success is measured more by guest satisfaction than by numbers alone.
“Success for us doesn’t necessarily mean that we get a lot of covers. Success for us is based on the fact that the guests and the communities within the surrounding regions have a wonderful experience,” he said.
This year’s spread pays tribute to traditional Malay Ramadan favourites while incorporating premium and contemporary selections, including expanded seafood offerings, sashimi and sushi varieties, as well as branded ice cream selections.
Adrian noted that classic dishes such as lamb remain staples of the Ramadan table, but the hotel continues to introduce new elements to elevate the buffet experience.
Among the highlights is New Zealand lamb, specially flown in, known globally for its distinctive flavour profile.
“New Zealand lamb is world class and they’re renowned for their exportation of that particular ingredient,” he said, adding that sourcing and logistics require detailed coordination from supplier to storage upon arrival in Kuching.
Beyond the ballroom, previous Ramadan campaigns have also featured specialty ingredients such as fresh durian, which required coordination with suppliers in Kuala Lumpur and careful handling to ensure quality upon arrival in Sarawak.
On menu variety, he estimated that over a dozen to nearly two dozen new dishes were incorporated into this year’s offering.
“We believe that if we get those elements right, the product and the service, then generally the rest should follow,” he said.
The buffet is available daily from 6 pm to 9.30 pm, priced from RM148 nett per person, with group dining discounts and exclusive privileges for Hilton Honors members.
Adrian described the pricing as competitive, emphasising value for guests seeking a premium yet accessible Ramadan dining experience.
“The Ramadan campaign is specifically only for that holy month and we don’t genuinely carry some of these dishes through after it. I always say it’s a once in a year opportunity,” he said.
