Daily Express Subscriber
Sign in to your account.

Kota Kinabalu: Hilton Kota Kinabalu is rounding off the year with a warm and vibrant festive line-up, blending culinary indulgence, family-friendly celebrations and a strong sense of community as Christmas and the New Year approach.

General Manager Smital Shah-Boultwood said this year's celebrations are designed to offer guests memorable experiences while enjoying some of the city's best views. One of the highlights is a special Christmas BBQ dinner at the hotel's Rooftop Bar & Grill, overlooking the Kota Kinabalu skyline.

"This Christmas, we are hosting a very special BBQ dinner featuring smoked and grilled selections, fishmonger items, an array of charcuterie, Christmas carvings, Latino specialities and, of course, beautiful Christmas treats," she told Daily Express.

As the year draws to a close, guests can also look forward to a relaxed New Year's high tea by the rooftop poolside. Families are welcome to enjoy the space together, with children having fun in the pool while adults raise a toast to welcome the New Year. For partygoers, Hilton Kota Kinabalu's signature New Year's Eve celebration will take place at the club, ushering in 2026 with a lively countdown party.

Beyond celebrations within the hotel, Smital emphasised the hotel's commitment to giving back to the community. "On behalf of Hilton Kota Kinabalu and the entire team, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to our guests and the Sabah community for their support throughout 2025, a year filled with both challenges and successes," she added.

She added that the hotel's culture of "people serving people" highlights the importance of kindness, unity and generosity during the festive season.

"We truly value our connection with Sabah and its people, and we remain committed to making a positive impact in the region," she said, wishing everyone love, joy and happiness this Christmas and a New Year filled with hope and prosperity.

Meanwhile, Executive Chef Qayyum Rashid shared insights into the inspiration behind this year's festive buffet. He said the menu is a celebration of both traditional and modern cuisines from around the world, featuring Asian, Western and Middle Eastern influences, complemented by an extensive selection of desserts.

"For me, the menu has no boundaries," he said. "I don't like to limit it to one specific theme. Whatever comes to my mind and inspires me, that's what we showcase with the team."

Chef Qayyum hopes guests will take away not just a satisfying meal, but lasting festive memories. "I'm sure our guests will enjoy the spread and bring home good memories from their Christmas dining experience with us," he said.

With its rooftop festivities, diverse culinary offerings and community-focused initiatives, Hilton Kota Kinabalu aims to spread festive warmth not only within its walls, but also across the wider Sabah community as the year comes to a close.