The Role of Art and Storytelling in Shaping Identity: Insights from Burth

Travel Daily Media (TDM): W Kuala Lumpur is set in a city rich with history and tradition. How do you integrate Malaysian culture and heritage into the hotel’s guest experience?

Volker Burth (VB): At W Kuala Lumpur, we believe that culture is not just something you see; it’s something you experience. From the moment guests arrive, they are greeted with design elements, flavours, and rituals inspired by Malaysia’s rich heritage. Whether through locally inspired welcome amenities, reinterpretations of Malaysian street food in our dining venues, or curated guest experiences that immerse them in the heart of the city, we ensure that Malaysian culture is seamlessly integrated into the bold luxury of the W lifestyle.

W Kuala Lumpur

TDM: What role does local art, design, or storytelling play in shaping the hotel’s identity and differentiating it from global counterparts?

VB: Art and storytelling are integral to our identity at W Kuala Lumpur. Our design narrative is a beautiful blend of Malaysia’s contrasts—where heritage meets modernity and tradition intersects with innovation. Throughout the property, you’ll discover local motifs, textures, and artistry, all reimagined with a contemporary flair. We believe in collaborating with local artists and creators, infusing the essence of Kuala Lumpur into our spaces, ensuring that each stay has a unique connection to the city while reflecting the unmistakable W vibe.

Moreover, W Kuala Lumpur stands as the ultimate urban oasis, offering breathtaking views of the iconic Petronas Twin Towers alongside avant-garde design. With our insider access and signature Whatever/Whenever® service, we promise that every moment spent with us is both seamless and spectacular. Through dynamic culinary collaborations and curated local experiences, we truly place our guests at the heart of Kuala Lumpur’s vibrant scene.

W Kuala Lumpur Interior

TDM: Are there collaborations with local chefs, farmers, or food artisans to bring authentic experiences to guests?

VB: Absolutely. Food serves as a powerful link to culture, and we actively collaborate with local chefs, farmers, and artisans. We celebrate Malaysian flavours innovatively, from sourcing fresh local produce to partnering with culinary talents for special pop-ups and dining experiences. Guests can enjoy a modern Cantonese meal at YEN, reinterpret hawker classics at Flock, or try limited-time menus created with emerging local talents.

Our culinary collaborations go beyond borders, partnering with W Bangkok, W Bali, W Singapore – Sentosa Cove, JW Marriott Singapore, and W Shanghai – The Bund, as well as local names like Beta and Aaliya. These partnerships bring vibrant flavours and new perspectives to our guests, allowing us to deliver authentic cuisine with a contemporary touch.

Culinary Experience

TDM: Kuala Lumpur’s festive calendar – from Hari Raya to Deepavali and Chinese New Year – is vibrant. How does the hotel participate in and showcase these celebrations?

VB: Festivals are the heartbeat of Malaysia, and at W Kuala Lumpur, we bring them to life with our unique W twist. Each celebration is an opportunity to honour traditions while reimagining them through bold design, creative programming, and unforgettable experiences. From immersive décor installations to curated menus that reinvent festive classics, every moment is authentic and unexpected.

What sets us apart is our ability to infuse these traditions with W’s DNA—avant-garde design, insider access, and our Whatever/Whenever® service. Each festival becomes more than just a celebration; it evolves into an elevated cultural experience that connects guests to the soul of Kuala Lumpur while remaining true to W’s bold, stylish identity.

TDM: In your view, what responsibility do hotels have in preserving and promoting local culture while delivering a global standard of hospitality?

VB: Hotels, particularly international brands, play a vital role as cultural bridges. We have a responsibility to showcase the best of our destination to a global audience while also respecting and preserving the traditions that make it unique. For me, it’s about delivering world-class service while ensuring that guests leave with a deeper connection to Malaysia.

Looking ahead, our responsibility goes beyond mere celebration; it encompasses active preservation and innovation. This could involve collaborating with local artisans to keep traditional crafts alive or providing platforms for Malaysian creatives in fashion, music, and design. By continuing to innovate while honouring our heritage, we ensure that culture evolves dynamically alongside global hospitality standards.