Appointment by Adrian Zecha, Chairman of Amanresorts to manage Carcosa Seri Negara. Built in 1858 for the first Governor of Malaysia, this palace is set in 125 acres of tropical gardens overlooking the city of Kuala Lumpur.

Owned by the Malaysian Government and at the time, managed by Amanresorts, the property offered butler service to the 13 palatial suites and operated multiple food and beverage outlets with a compliment of 187 staff members.

With regular state visits requiring the highest levels of official protocol and security, new competencies were heightened to welcome Heads of State, their ministers, and entourage from such nations as Japan, Brunei, United States, and the United Kingdom.

Along with various European and Asian awards and accolades, Carcosa Seri Negara successfully achieved a Harpers Hideaway award during this time.

This hotel development process offered considerable exposure to multiple cultures, including the exceptional service ethic demonstrated by the people of Southeast Asia.