Find out what measures the Shangri-La Group are implementing to welcome its guests back during the RMCO.

After successfully containing the COVID-19 virus, Malaysia is slowly resuming its day-to-day routine, but with heightened safety measures of course. On the travel and staycation front, the Shangri-La Group reopens its doors to guests during the RMCO with enhanced hygiene protocols under its new “Shangri-La” cares initiative. It’s a commitment that elevates it already meticulous hygiene and safety protocols which extends to all its properties worldwide. In the new normal, travellers will place their safety and hygiene above everything, which is exactly why “Shangri-La Cares” aims to reinforce the Group’s commitment to provide the utmost care in everything they do and offer to its guests.

As of June, Shangri-La has introduced new procedures and protocols to ensure the safety and peace-of-mind of its guests. From the second you arrive to the moment you leave, the Group has left no stone unturned in upping its everyday hygiene routine.

When you arrive

• Hotel limousines are thoroughly sanitised before and after each use. The front passenger seat will be kept empty throughout the ride.
• Disinfectant floor mats are placed at entrances to clean and sanitise footwear.
• All guests’ temperatures, health, and travel declarations and contact details will be documented.
• Guests may be asked to wear a face mask prior to entering the hotel.
• There will be gentle reminders to maintain a 1 to 1.5m safe distance between one another when in the hotel.
• Partitions at check-in desks, thorough sanitation of countertops and equipment.

When you stay

• #Shangrilacares cleanliness assurance seals will be issued for every room post-cleaning.
• 12-point stepped up room cleaning regime with hospital-grade disinfectant for frequently touched surfaces.
• Room attendants will only clean the room in the absence of guests to minimise face-to-face contact.
• Self-care pack comprising of mask, hand sanitiser, anti-baterial wet wipes provided in-room for guest’s convenience.
• New cleaning and sanitation technology, such as ultra-violet light technology and electrostatic spraying devices to be used.
• Each room’s soiled linen will be placed in double-lined sealed bags and laundered at high temperature.
• After each departure, the room will be kept vacant for a minimum of six hours before we commence housekeeping.

While you’re out

• As a precaution, only four people will be allowed to take the lift at any one time.
• Increased cleaning and sanitising frequency, at least hourly, for high touch contact surfaces such as lift buttons and public bathrooms.
• Hand sanitiser dispensers – touchless whenever possible – are available at key guest areas.
• Furniture will be more spaced out and marked accordingly to ensure safe distancing standards are met.

For recreational activities

• Recreational facilities will have shorter operating hours, so as to carry out deep-cleaning of equipment and premises as well as regular cleaning and disinfection of recreation facilities and gym equipment.
• Mandatory temperature screenings for all guest prior t entry to recreational facilities.
• To maintain safe distancing, some gym machines will be left unoccupied and gym usage may be limited to only a number of participants per given timeslot.
• Where applicable, guest numbers for social functions will be limited for the time being.

When you dine

• Restaurant seating capacity will be capped at 50%. We encourage our guests to make prior table reservations to prevent disappointment.
• Tables and booths will be rearranged with 1 to 1.5m distance between each dining party.
• Customers are encouraged to check with their chosen or favourite restaurants on group size limitations. The hotel will abide by the local government’s advisory.
• Digital menus and contactless payment options will be made available and encouraged.
• Alcohol wet wipes and envelopes will be provided so diners may safekeep their face masks while dining.
• Modifications to table service include dishes being served with a cloche and service spoons will be offered for all family-style shared dishes.
• Partitions will be set up at restaurant reservation and greeting counters.

The People

• Our colleagues will wear face masks and be equipped with other Personal Protection Equipment such as gloves when deemed necessary by the hotel’s medical experts.
• Colleagues have been trained in the new and enhanced safety and sanitation protocols developed with our Diversey infection prevention application expert.
• Additional training, certification, and recertification opportunities have been made available to our colleagues.
• Increased cleaning and disinfection for all most frequently touched areas. Our colleagues will closely observe safe distancing protocols even when off duty.
• Mandatory temperature screenings and any colleague who is ill will be asked to seek immediate medical attention and relieved from duty.

“The health and safety of our colleagues and guests is of utmost priority. At Shangri-La, it is in our nature to look after people, to anticipate their needs and go above and beyond to ensure they have a memorable experience. We remain humble and true to our founding ethos with this commitment that will ensure we do our best to take care of people” said Lim Beng Chee, Chief Executive Officer of Shangri-La Group. “To meet new challenges and evolving customer expectations, we are focusing on enhanced hygiene protocols, elevating our standards and safeguarding our guests and colleagues’ well-being. We would like to convey our heartfelt care by creating a safe environment where everyone feels comfortable and trusts in our ability to ensure their safety and health – so that they can focus on moments that truly matter.” 

Photos: Shangri-La Group