By V. Sivaji

Fresh from her stint in Langkawi, Ms. Catherine Ooi takes on a new leadership role as Executive Assistant Manager (EAM) overseeing three properties within the Iconic Group: the Iconic Marjorie Hotel, Penang—a Tribute Portfolio Hotel by Marriott; Iconic Hotel Penang in Bukit Mertajam, Penang and the Iconic Regency Service Residences effective October 1, 2025,

With her last tenure as Director of Sales & Marketing (DOSM) at Aloft Langkawi Pantai Tengah, Ooi brings a wealth of industry experience and proven leadership to her new position.

Ooi returns to her roots in Penang, having most contributed to several leading names in the industry such as Shangri‑La Rasa Sayang Resort, St Giles Wembley Hotel and within the Hilton group. 

Starting out as a rank‑and‑file employee, she has worked her way up through dedication, resilience, and consistent performance—particularly in driving revenue and sales. 

Known as a collaborative leader, she values her team’s input and ideas, believing that collective efforts yield stronger results for the entire property.

Her appointment comes at a pivotal time for Iconic Marjorie, a Marriott Tribute Portfolio five‑star hotel that opened in December 2024 in Bayan Lepas. The Iconic Regency Service Residences is located adjacent to this hotel.

The hotel, built at RM180 million, features 298 rooms, Peranakan‑influenced design by Hirsch Bedner Associates and is Penang’s first high‑rise property to achieve a Gold certification under the Green Building Index, an indicator of its strong commitment to sustainability. 

Among its facilities are a grand ballroom seating up to 800, multiple function rooms, world‑class wellness amenities, sophisticated dining options and a location that balances business, leisure and accessibility. 

Since its launch, Iconic Marjorie has already earned several prestigious accolades and is positioning itself strongly in the MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, Events) and luxury travel markets.

Meanwhile the Iconic Regency Service Residences offers an infinite sky pool, a gymnasium, games room, BBQ facilities on its rooftop on the 42nd floor. As for the Iconic Hotel Bukit Mertajam, Penang, they offer 195 rooms, an outdoor pool, fitness centre and other dining options. 

With Catherine Ooi joining its executive team, the hospitality group is well poised to push forward its growth agenda—both in operations excellence and guest experience—leveraging her experience, leadership and passion for collaborative progress.

Ooi reports to Group General Manager, Kevin Cheah at the Iconic Group. 

We too at Penang Hyperlocal take this opportunity to wish Catherine Ooi the very best in all her endeavors at the Iconic Group.