With several years of experience working with the Sunway Hospitality Group Alex Castaldi is optimistic about the brand’s potential in the segment. Starting his journey with the company as General Manager of The Banjaran Hotsprings Retreat, he has been an integral part of the group’s success. He now relishes the challenge to spearhead Sunway Hospitality’s fortunes as its Chief Operating Officer.
Chief Operating Officer of Sunway Hospitality, Alex Castaldi.
“It’s exciting to drive Sunway Hospitality’s mission to become a formidable global hospitality player while remaining guided by our core pillars of Humility, Excellence and Integrity, as instilled by our Founder and Chairman, Tan Sri Dato’ Seri Sir Dr. Jeffrey Cheah,” enthuses Castaldi. As General Manager of The Banjaran, he was instrumental in elevating Jeff’s Cellar – the resort’s signature restaurant – into one of Malaysia’s most iconic dining destinations.
Later, as Senior General Manager of Sunway City Kuala Lumpur Hotels, he oversaw the US$60 million transformation of Sunway Resort Hotel and bringing globally recognised brands like Gordon Ramsay Bar & Grill to Malaysia. In his new role, Castaldi admits it is an honour and a responsibility but he is particularly inspired by the opportunity to expand Sunway’s portfolio across Southeast Asia and contribute to the exceptional projects that are already in the pipeline.
“This role is about more than expansion; it’s about building a legacy that secures Sunway’s place as a global leader in hospitality,” as he reveals in this exclusive conversation.
Working with the Group all these years, how would you say it has evolved?
The Banjaran Hotsprings Retreat.
When I joined Sunway Hospitality in 2017, the brand was well-established locally but had yet to be recognised alongside renowned global hotel brands. However, we have since transformed this perception. The Sunway Resort Hotel’s transformation helped redefine the guest experience. We have successfully doubled the average room rate by introducing modern luxurious designs, bespoke room types and intuitive facilities for a wide range of customers. Collaborating with globally-renowned F&B brands has also turned Sunway City Kuala Lumpur into a must-visit dining destination.
In such a crowded and competitive space, how do you cut through the noise?
Standing out in a competitive market requires authenticity, purpose and a clear sense of value. At Sunway, we differentiate ourselves not solely through luxury or scale, but through three key pillars: Humility, Excellence and Integrity. Our synergy with the broader Sunway ecosystem allows us to deliver holistic guest experiences that are both unique and unmatched.
Sunway Lagoon.
Sustainability is also a cornerstone strategy. Through our ‘Sunway for Good’ initiatives, we champion eco-conscious and community-driven projects that align with global priorities, creating a positive impact that resonates deeply with today’s travellers.
Innovation is also equally critical. Our upcoming hotel app will blend convenience with personalisation to offer genuine, human-centred services. By focusing on purpose-driven experiences, heart-led innovation and an integrated approach, Sunway Hospitality consistently offers something distinctive in an increasingly crowded market.
What are some of the opportunities you see for the Group?
I believe we are uniquely positioned to seize opportunities within the evolving travel industry. With integrated offerings across retail, entertainment, healthcare and education, we can deliver seamless, multi-faceted experiences that redefine traditional hospitality.
Sunway Resort.
Regional expansion is also a key focus. We now have 11 properties across Malaysia, Cambodia and Vietnam. With upcoming projects like an integrated resort in Ipoh, and a luxury retreat in Iskandar Puteri in Johor we’ve evolved from a local brand into a regional and global hospitality leader, offering holistic and transformative experiences.
Equally important is our commitment to evolving with consumer trends. By understanding the priorities of each generation, whether it’s sustainability, digital innovation or wellness, we continue to diversify our offerings and meet the needs of today’s travellers. This agility allows us to create meaningful, forward-thinking experiences that resonate with guests across all demographics.
In your view, what makes a great hospitality experience?
For me, a great hospitality experience is just one word: “memorable”. It’s not just about amenities or facilities, but about moments that linger in your memory and make you want to return. At Sunway, we strive to create experiences that leave a lasting impression through thoughtful, personalised service and intuitive spaces that resonate emotionally with guests. It’s about moments of connection, discovery, comfort and authentic interaction. That’s the kind of hospitality experience we strive to create for every guest to cherish long after their stay.
