Kota Kinabalu: As the holiday season approaches, Hilton Kota Kinabalu is set to enchant guests with a series of festive offerings that promise to create memorable moments.
From decadent dining experiences to captivating décor, the hotel invites locals and tourists alike to indulge in the warmth and magic of Christmas and New Year.
Advertisement (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({});The celebrations began with a grand Christmas tree lighting ceremony, accompanied by the harmonious carols of the Kota Kinabalu Seventh Day Adventist choir group.
This traditional event, held in the hotel’s lobby, signified the start of a month-long programme of events designed to bring families and friends together.
It was attended by Assistant Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister Datuk Joniston Bangkuai on Dec 5.
Hilton Kota Kinabalu General Manager Smital Shah-Boultwood highlighted the hotel’s diverse festive dining experiences, saying that this year’s offerings combine traditional favourites with global flair.
Advertisement (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({});“Our buffet table features a wide range of delicious festive treats and live stations, ranging from Nonya Peranakan and Thai Hawker Style to Mediterranean cuisine,” she said.
Guests can savour the Christmas Eve Dinner Buffet at Urban Kitchen, featuring carving stations, fresh seafood, and a rich selection of desserts, or opt for the BBQ Dinner Buffet at the Rooftop Bar & Grill, showcasing smoky grilled delights, premium charcuterie, and Mediterranean treats.
Advertisement (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({});The festive High Tea Buffet on Christmas Day includes Nyonya Peranakan dishes, Malay tiffin, and Thai hawker favourites.
For those welcoming 2025, the New Year’s Eve Dinner Buffet at Urban Kitchen offers charbroiled dishes, seafood, and an impressive array of meat-free options, followed by a countdown party at The Club with live music and DJ performances.
Throughout December, guests can enjoy a festive-themed afternoon high tea at Drip, featuring savoury bites like smoked turkey brioche and sweet treats like star cinnamon cookies. Executive Chef Qayyum Rashid shared his approach to crafting the festive menus, which blend tradition, seasonality, and creativity.
“We tailor the menu to guest preferences while incorporating an international flair. Signature dishes include panettone from Italy, bûche de Noël from France, and festive curries from South Asia,” he said.
Among the highlights are appetisers like cranberry pâté and eggplant caviar with crispy streaky beef, soups such as chestnut and parsnip or turkey chowder, and show-stopping mains like Egyptian lamb ouzi and slow-roasted herb-crusted wagyu leg.
Chef Qayyum also emphasised the importance of sustainability, noting that many ingredients are locally sourced as part of Hilton’s commitment to environmental, social and governance (ESG) practices.
Hilton Kota Kinabalu has transformed its spaces with enchanting seasonal décor, festive music, and a signature holiday scent.
“We have traditional yet enchanting decorations throughout the hotel, complemented by special seasonal treats, drinks, and appearances from Santa Claus and Santarina,” said Smital.
The festive atmosphere is further enhanced by live performances and activities for children, ensuring that every guest – young or old – feels the season’s joy.
To encourage early bookings, the hotel offers a “Buy 4, Get 1 Free” promotion for reservations made before Dec 15.
Hilton Honors members and groups of ten or more can also enjoy exclusive discounts. Hilton offers an exquisite Festive Takeaway selection for those celebrating at home, including Roasted Lamb Roulade and Beef Wellington, alongside festive goodies such as gingerbread creations and Christmas Yule Logs.
“Come and enjoy Christmas with Hilton Kota Kinabalu,” Smital encouraged. With a rich variety of culinary delights, captivating décor, and special promotions, the hotel offers something for everyone this festive season.
From indulgent buffets to enchanting high teas, Hilton Kota Kinabalu’s holiday celebrations provide the perfect setting to create lasting memories with loved ones.
