History was made on a star-studded evening as over 200 hospitality professionals gathered to celebrate the inaugural Hospitality Ball 2024. Co-hosted by HAPA® and SoL, this groundbreaking event was a testament to the industry’s resilience, creativity, and bold new directions. Stepping beyond the traditional confines of a hotel ballroom, the ball redefined elegance, offering a one-of-a-kind immersive experience that celebrated the vibrant spirit of hospitality.

The evening was marked by two momentous launches: the unveiling of HAPA® Guide, commemorating HAPA®’s 30 years of excellence, and the grand opening of SoL, a Latin-inspired destination rooftop restaurant and bar perched atop Level 40 of The Met Corporate Towers. These dual milestones underscored the enduring legacy and innovative future of the industry.

A Shared Vision of Excellence

Jennifer Ong, the visionary founder of HAPA®, expressed her pride in the event’s success: “Hospitality is not just a profession; it’s a passion that shapes lives and ignites innovation. For 30 years, HAPA® has been at the forefront, setting benchmarks and redefining excellence. The launch of the HAPA® Guide during this inaugural ball signifies our commitment to guiding the industry towards excellence. Partnering with SOL for this groundbreaking event reflects our shared vision of creativity and global recognition for Kuala Lumpur’s vibrant culinary scene.”

Leslie Gomez, founder of The Olive Tree Group and the visionary behind SOL, echoed this sentiment: “The essence of hospitality lies in creating spaces where people feel a profound sense of belonging. SOL embodies this philosophy, offering bold flavors, soulful sophistication, and unparalleled views of Kuala Lumpur’s skyline. The inaugural Hospitality Ball represents a new era of possibilities for our industry, celebrating resilience, ingenuity, and the connections that bring us together.”

Highlights of the Evening

The event featured dazzling performances, curated culinary experiences, and heartfelt speeches from industry leaders. Guests were treated to a first-hand experience of SOL’s vibrant Latin-inspired cuisine and its breathtaking ambiance, cementing its status as a beacon of Kuala Lumpur’s culinary landscape.

HAPA®: Three Decades of Transforming Hospitality

For over three decades, HAPA   Group has redefined hospitality standards across Malaysia,

Singapore, and ASEAN. Renowned for its prestigious HAPA  Awards, often called the "Oscars of Hospitality," the group has set industry benchmarks through innovation and excellence. Beyond accolades, HAPA  has expanded its impact with platforms like HAPA  Academy for world-

class hospitality training, HAPA  Events for bespoke event curation, and digital channels such as HAPA  TV and the newly launched HAPA  Guide, which showcases the best in hospitality,

F&B, and tourism. With a legacy of passion and purpose, HAPA  Group continues to inspire and shape the future of the industry.

A Bright Future Ahead

As the industry’s finest gathered to celebrate, the inaugural Hospitality Ball 2024 stood as a powerful reminder of the legacy, passion, and innovation that define the world of hospitality. With milestones like the launch of HAPA® Guide and SOL, the evening ignited a new chapter of excellence, setting the stage for even greater achievements in the years to come.

HAPA®’s unwavering commitment to shaping the future of hospitality and The Olive Tree Group’s dedication to elevating experiences signal a promising path forward. Together, they have not only celebrated the industry’s past but have also illuminated its exciting future.

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