Motivated by his parent's hospitable nature, Kemp went into the hotel industry which led him to join Hyatt (All pictures: Hyatt)
Options: Your career in hospitality was greatly influenced by your parents. Tell us about your earlier years and how they continue to impact your work today.
Herman Kemp: The nature of hospitality truly runs in the family. My first job, at 16, was serving and waiting tables at my father’s restaurant. Growing up in such an environment, I was motivated by my parents’ passion and dedication to making others feel welcomed and valued. So, I devoted myself to pursuing a career in the hotel industry. After completing my formal education at The Hague in the Netherlands, I had the opportunity to build my career in various hospitality-led organisations and, a few years later, I got to be part of the family at Hyatt.
It is an innate need to connect with people that continues to drive the work that I do today. Hospitality is about people, understanding their needs and how to go beyond those expectations. It is a philosophy that Park Hyatt embodies. We aspire to build personal connections with our guests to ensure that every detail is thoughtfully curated for an unparalleled level of comfort and indulgence.
What goes into making each stay at Park Hyatt Kuala Lumpur truly remarkable?
For Park Hyatt KL, I envision the hotel as a beacon of luxury and cultural immersion in the heart of the city. Our goal is to craft memorable experiences that blend luxury hospitality with local artistry and cutting-edge innovation, all with sustainability in mind. For example, the hot water is generated entirely by solar panels installed on the roof of Merdeka 118. We are also set to redefine plant-based dining through the vegan and vegetarian options on our menu, a speciality of our executive pastry chef Holger Deh.
We aim to consistently elevate our offerings through exceptional service, culinary excellence and local sustainability initiatives. Furthermore, I am excited about cultivating meaningful partnerships with the local communities and talented artists to showcase KL’s rich cultural tapestry. Our aspiration is to position Park Hyatt KL as a destination where every guest feels a deep connection with the property and the dynamic essence of the city.
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What made Kuala Lumpur the prime location for the new Park Hyatt?
Asia-Pacific is a key market for Hyatt, with a significant portion of its portfolio now in the luxury and upper-scale segments, along with many upcoming openings slated for 2025 and 2026. This growth reflects how the brand continues to redefine luxury. Park Hyatt KL is Malaysia’s first, which is truly exciting for us. Located on top of an iconic building with unparalleled views of the city, it is an exciting project that has been in the works for many years. Given the current market in Malaysia, I am eager to raise the bar in the local hospitality scene. I am inspired by the city’s blend of heritage and modern culture. The team draws great inspiration from the diversity in this vibrant metropolis, and I am honoured to have the opportunity to lead a passionate and dedicated group.
Park Hyatt is known for curating local-inspired experiences at each of its properties. Tell us about all the things that make Park Hyatt KL distinctly Malaysian.
Our goal is to provide a ‘home away from home’ with a special Park Hyatt touch that incorporates local elements. First, our award-winning chefs are dedicated to curating a dining experience that celebrates Malaysia’s diverse culinary heritage, bringing together exceptional flavours paired with global influences.
Our wellness services are also inspired by traditional healing practices that are combined with modern therapies, providing a tranquil oasis that embodies Park Hyatt, with treatments rooted in local authenticity. Art enthusiasts can also enjoy our thoughtfully curated pieces that adorn the walls of the hotel. These artworks are a collaboration with local artists and are a significant part of our space. Our Park Hyatt concierge team is made up of knowledgeable local ambassadors who will be able to offer their insights and curate personalised programmes for guests.
What are the top three things you believe every guest should experience at Park Hyatt KL?
Our dining spaces, wellness floor and, of course, the guestrooms. Our culinary artists have curated a menu that aims to redefine the art of dining — be it to savour Malaysia’s lost recipes and the indulgent afternoon tea at Park Lounge, a selection of premium meat and sustainably sourced seafood at Merdeka Grill, or chocolate pours and pairings at Cacao Mixology & Chocolate, the first chocolate-themed bar in the city.
Our wellness floor is an elevated sanctuary of both fitness and rejuvenation, with sweeping views of the KL skyline. Amenities include a 24-hour gym, signature circadian treatments and a salt chamber for total relaxation. The hotel’s 252 spacious guestrooms and suites have unrivalled views, offering a tranquil stay above the clouds. Park Hyatt is known to provide customised experiences unique to each of its guests, and we look forward to welcoming them to their new home in the sky.
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How have you been preparing for the grand opening in August?
The team currently has their hands full. We aim to set new standards for five-star luxury hospitality not only in Malaysia but also in Southeast Asia.
We pride ourselves on our bespoke and luxury services, meticulously attending to every detail to ensure the highest standards of service. From the finishing of our spaces to the carefully curated ambience that elevates the five senses, nothing is overlooked. Guests will be welcomed to a stay with tasteful comforts, just like a home away from home.
How do you stay calm and grounded during this busy period?
It is an exciting time as we anticipate the opening. As for what keeps me calm and grounded, it is being mindful of what is most important at the moment. It is crucial that I balance my role, family and hobbies through it all.
Being responsible for leading the team at such an iconic landmark is an honour, and I am inspired every day to deliver exceptional experiences that reflect Malaysia’s thoughtful hospitality, rooted
in culture. Outside of that, I love running — it is a big hobby of mine. My wife is a runner and I picked up the habit from her. I make it a practice to go for a run every morning. It has helped me with clarity and perspective, allowing me to lead with purpose and encourage my team to strive for excellence. Above all, my family comes first. I treasure time with my daughters and it is a joy I love coming home to.
What is your idea of the perfect weekend in KL?
Exploring Chinatown and its surrounding neighbourhood. I enjoy immersing myself in local culture and trying local cuisines with my family. So, you could do no wrong in the area where there are plenty of food options and a vibrant environment. It is also a perk that Park Hyatt KL is at the centre of it all, allowing our guests to tour the city as soon as they step out of the hotel.
Park Hyatt Kuala Lumpur will open on Aug 7. For more information and reservations, visit hyatt.com.
This article first appeared on July 21, 2025 in The Edge Malaysia.
