By: John T.
PENAMPANG: The Yang di-Pertua Negeri of Sabah, Tun Musa Haji Aman, had the privilege of officiating the grand opening of The MAJULAN Hotel, situated at ITCC Penampang, on Wednesday, 20 August 2025.
The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of The MAJULAN Hotel, Alexander Hugo Malakun, stated that the hotel features 163 well-appointed rooms catering to both business and leisure travelers; a café and restaurant on Level 1 offering local Sabah delicacies and international cuisine; a swimming pool and gym on Level 3; and a rooftop deck providing stunning panoramic views of Penampang.
“Our mission extends beyond the physical structure; we aim to serve the community, generate meaningful employment, support local suppliers, and promote tourism in the District of Penampang and beyond,” he remarked.
Hugo shared that The MAJULAN Hotel pays tribute to his great grandfather, Majulan Datu Damidal, a respected elder from Kg. Sugud who welcomed the legendary Mat Salleh and his followers into his home in Kg. Sugud, Penampang.
He noted that Aki Majulan’s generosity helped his community during difficult times. When resources were scarce, he opened his land to those without, provided sustenance for the needy, and exemplified compassion and equity.
“His daughter, Ina Toing Zineh Majulan, continued that legacy. Today, her son—our Chairman, Datuk Seri Panglima Clarence B. Malakun—dedicates this hotel to three generations of community leadership, ensuring that compassion and equity remain central to our mission.
“This journey has not been without its hurdles. Throughout the challenges posed by Covid-19, supply chain disruptions, and economic instability, our Chairman, Datuk Seri Panglima Clarence B. Malakun, along with our Managing Director, Datin Seri Panglima Sylvia Malakun, remained steadfast and motivated us to achieve our goals successfully.
“We are also fortunate to build in a state that values stability and progress under the leadership of Chief Minister Yang Amat Berhormat Datuk Seri Panglima Haji Hajiji bin Haji Noor—giving businesses like ours the confidence to invest and grow,” he added.
Hugo said Sabah’s natural beauty and cultural richness make it one of the most unique destinations in the world. From the majestic Mount Kinabalu to our pristine islands and vibrant indigenous traditions, tourism has become the heartbeat of our state’s economy and identity.
He also thanks the relentless effort of Tuan Yang Terutama; during his previous 15-year tenure as Chief Minister, the tourism industry boomed and placed Sabah on the world map as one of Southeast Asia’s most visited destinations.
“We are fortunate and honoured that this tourism legacy continues today under the GRS–PH Government, led by our Chief Minister, Yang Amat Berhormat Datuk Seri Panglima Haji Hajiji bin Haji Noor, who has identified tourism as a key economic driver under the Sabah Maju Jaya Development Plan.
“With the tireless dedication of our Tourism Minister, Yang Berhormat Datuk Seri Panglima Christina Liew, Sabah continues to expand international flight connectivity and strengthen our global reputation as a premier destination,” he added.
Hugo said, in this spirit, his father, and also the MAJULAN Hotel Chairman, Datuk Seri Panglima Clarence B. Malakun, has always reminded us in business that success must go hand-in-hand with service.
“Whatever we do, we must also give back to Sabah—by uplifting local communities, preserving our heritage, and ensuring that every visitor leaves with a piece of Penampang and Sabah’s warm hospitality in their hearts.
This philosophy guides us as we open The MAJULAN Hotel, not merely as a business venture, but as a meaningful contribution to Sabah’s journey forward,” he said.
Hugo said, “To our partners and friends, the State Government and local authorities, like Penampang Municipal Council, all the banks and bankers who lent money to us to fund the ITCC project, consultants, contractors, suppliers, the Penampang community, and our MAJULAN management team—thank you very much. Your professionalism and trust turned challenges into milestones.
“As we open our doors, we commit to consistent, warm service of international standard, to be a hotel the community of Penampang can be proud of, and a welcoming home for travellers from near and far,” he added
