Rather than recreating the colourful worlds of Hello Kitty, Kuromi and Cinnamoroll, Iconic Marjorie Penang, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel, has taken an unexpected approach. Its latest collaboration with Sanrio Southeast Asia reimagines the beloved characters through the lens of Penang’s Peranakan heritage, creating what is believed to be Southeast Asia’s first Sanrio Peranakan-themed hospitality experience.
The collaboration introduces a collection of immersive guestrooms inspired by Hello Kitty, Kuromi and Cinnamoroll, each thoughtfully designed to weave together Sanrio’s unmistakable visual language with the rich patterns, colours and storytelling traditions of Peranakan culture. Rather than feeling like a themed attraction, the experience reflects the hotel’s identity as a contemporary celebration of Penang’s heritage.
A Celebration Of Two Cultures
Alongside the guestrooms, guests can enjoy a Sanrio-themed afternoon tea where Japanese-inspired whimsy meets Peranakan hospitality. Exclusive Sanrio merchandise—including bathrobes, stationery, teaware, toiletries and keepsakes—is also available, allowing visitors to take a piece of the experience home.
For Iconic Marjorie Penang, the collaboration builds on a relationship with Sanrio that has evolved over the past four years across a range of lifestyle products before culminating in the hotel’s opening.
“As we developed the vision for Iconic Marjorie Penang as a modern Peranakan hotel, we saw an opportunity to create something truly unique,” says Katherine Tan, Executive Director of Iconic Marjorie Penang. “The result is the first Sanrio characters Peranakan-themed rooms and afternoon tea experience in Southeast Asia, combining heritage, creativity and unforgettable guest experiences.”
More Than A Character Stay
While themed hotel rooms have become increasingly popular across Asia, Iconic Marjorie distinguishes itself by grounding the collaboration in local culture rather than simply celebrating beloved characters. Peranakan-inspired interiors, storytelling and hospitality create an experience that feels intrinsically connected to Penang.
“By bringing together the timeless charm of Sanrio characters and Penang’s rich Peranakan heritage, this collaboration allows guests of all ages to experience our characters in a unique and memorable way,” says Kohei Imai, Chief Operating Officer of Sanrio Southeast Asia.
As travellers increasingly seek experiences that are both immersive and culturally rooted, the collaboration reflects a broader shift in hospitality—where partnerships extend beyond branding to become vehicles for storytelling. In Penang, that story unfolds through the meeting of Japanese pop culture and one of Malaysia’s richest cultural traditions, creating a stay that is as distinctive as the destination itself.
