Hotel sports tallest mural in Malaysia

KUALA LUMPUR: Long famed for its Yut Kee Hainanese chicken chop, Jalan Kamunting can add another feather to its cap as the home to Malaysia’s tallest mural.

The 25-storey mural on the wall of newly opened hotel RED by Sirocco has been certified by The Malaysia Book Of Records.

Sabah graffiti artist Kenji Chai, who took 21 days to complete the 87.1m-tall artwork, said he wanted to highlight Malaysia’s unique and diverse cultures through his creation.

“I love my country and I want everyone to discover its beauty.

“One of the best ways to do this is through art that everyone can see and appreciate,” he said during the grand opening of the hotel on Tuesday.

The mural titled Courage To Dream features a Dayak woman, tropical flora and fauna, as well as local hawker favourites.

Sirocco Hospi­tality Group chief executive officer Datin Lea Chan said it was important for the hotel to celebrate local art.

“We believe in harnessing local talent and that is why we decided to work with Chai to paint the beautiful mural.

“My husband and I have also decided to display our collection of art pieces by local artists in the hotel,” she added.

Chan explained that the hotel’s location in Dang Wangi would expose travellers to a variety of authentic local experiences.

“Dang Wangi has always been an essential part of Kuala Lumpur. Although it’s within the Kuala Lumpur city centre, it has managed to retain its local flavour, from food to culture,” she said.

RED by Sirocco is a four-star boutique hotel developed by M101 Holdings.