Reinventing Fineness

Shangri-La Hotel Jakarta lays the foundations for the next 25 years

- Yessar Rosendar

Surviving the test of time is not a simple task, especially in the ultra-competitive hospital-ity industry, Shangri-La Hotel Jakarta is a prime example of a hotel that has endured the test and become one of the iconic properties in the capital city. Last March the hotel celebrated its 25th anniversary and now it is laying its future foundations to remain relevant in the market. Strategically located in Jakarta’s CBD, it is renowned for its high-level of service, luxury, and food and beverage outlets. The hotel has a firm place in the recent history of Jakarta and its growth. It has hosted various important guests including heads of state, such as then-US President Barack Obama, who stayed during his visit to Jakarta in 2010. According to Andrew den Oudsten, general manager of Shangri-La Hotel Jakarta, a combination of the owners’ vision and strong leadership are among the factors that ensure the hotel will constantly reinvent itself in the future.

“You have to innovate, not be afraid to change, and recognize when things need to change,” Andrew says.