There are many more associates in our company who are eager and ready to embark on these new concepts and make them a reality. All it takes is a lot of hard work, dedication and commitment from all of us to AJust do it@. I am confident that we will be able to successfully implement this style of operations in all our hotels, some have already started and we will be guiding others as we move along together.

This past year has been among the most challenging in the hotel's history. In the face of an economic crisis, with occupancy being erratic and rates nosediving to an all time low, it has been one of our priorities to keep our associates optimistic and motivated in these tough times.

Probably the most exciting and innovative of these is the 'Timeshare' programme where every associate is given 'ownership' of one guestroom. The associate will be responsible for checking the room on a regular basis throughout the year and ensuring that the relevant departments are doing what is necessary to keep the room up to mark. Then once a year, the associate is rewarded with his timeshare benefits where he can bring his family for a stay in the guestroom that he 'owns'. This programme will excite our associates and will ensure that each and every one of our guestrooms gets personal attention.

The 'Reach For The Stars' programme which will be launched soon, is designed to enhance the hotel's service image, to promote team spirit amongst associates, to recognise and reward associates for outstanding effort and service to guests and fellow associates, and also to encourage team leaders to always be on the lookout for associates who give outstanding service.

Associates who perform outstandingly by going above and beyond the call of duty will be immediately acknowledged with a special card. Others who qualify include those who actively promote team spirit and who are committed to quality. Each card is valued at 1 point and can be accumulated for redemption of gifts.

An Associates' Appreciation Day was organised recently in appreciation of the associates' dedication and effort. Steering Committee and Board Of Operations members cooked up a feast for the associates. The menu included Rojak Asma, Prawn Sambal, Devilled Chicken Curry, Yong Tau Fu, Roti John, Ais Kacang, and Waffles With Ice-Cream. Associates were ushered into the 'restaurant', seated, their orders taken and the food served, just like in a restaurant. While they dined, entertainment was provided from a karaoke corner at lunch, while at dinner the band from the Lobby Lounge performed for an hour. The associates had a good time and said that this was the best Associates' Appreciation Day.

Another Associate Care project was the Family Day which was held at the Hutan Bandar Recreational Park. A full day of fun activities had associates and their families having a whale of a time. What's more, we welcomed 80 orphans from the Darul Hanan home into the Puteri Pan Pacific family for the day as well. The families enjoyed themselves with outdoor games, a children's colouring competition, a children's fancy dress competition and of course, lots of delicious food and fantastic company!

In an effort to spring-clean the hotel and at the same time leading by example, the steering committee and department heads have literally been going down on their hands and knees to clean the hotel. Once a week, together with Lyndall De Marco, they clean kitchens and restaurants; digging under cupboards, cleaning stoves, washing walls and mopping floors. The result - a hotel that is almost sparkling once again!

Contributed by the team

at The Puteri Pan Pacific Hotel Johor Bahru.

Bangkok -- Over 200 associates attended a training session on how to react during a bomb threat and handling of unusual parcels. This lecture, demonstration and practice followed by evacuation practice was conducted by the Police from the Explosive Ordinance Disposal Department. . . 109 associates attended training on How to please the Customer. . . 8 associates attended a 5-day First aid workshop.

Johor Bahru -- The Sports Carnival 1998 ended with Kitchen & Stewarding walking away with the challenge trophy. After six months of friendly competition in six different sports, Kitchen and Stewarding emerged as overall champions, with Admin and General second and Engineering a close third. . . A sale of old or unused items collected more than RM1500. Among the items on sale were non-moving fancy cocktail mugs and plastic water containers.

Yokohama -- The hotel PC Area Committee conducted a session on "how to become proactive from viruses". As many of the systems at the hotel relies on computers, basic and several important rules, as well as examples were shared. . . To appreciate associates= hard work, a special accommodation rate, \10,000 for double occupancy with breakfast was offered to all associates and partners on November 30 and December 1. Approximately 350 persons took up the offer. . . All Board of Operations member will serve as cooks, waiters and waitress in uniform at the employees' dining room on December 28. Special lunch and dinner menus will be offered to appreciate associates for their hard work. . . Front Line Associates were briefed on the upcoming Christmas and New Year activities. Queen Alice Manager, Mr. Eiji Oshima, will provide a session for One To One Services associates for details of the promotions such as menus or special events.

Kota Kinabalu -- Jonathan Badman conducted a 3 day training course on Practical Selling Skills from 28 - 30 December 1998 for the Business Development team of Sutera Harbour. . . All associates participated in an Inter-Department Tournament arranged by Sutera Harbor Golf & Country Club in November. . .Associates from various functions participated in a Fire Prevention Seminar from Jabatan Bomba Dan Penyelamat Malaysia that was co-organized by People Innovation. . Performance appraisals for the central functions of Sutera Harbor . . Executive appointments have begun for the opening of The Magellan Sutera Hotel and for the integrated functions of the Sutera Harbor. . . 13 trainees of PPPJB Career Development Institute completed their third and final attachment at PPSHKK. They were accompanied by the Director of Education Innovation, Mr Khalid Mat Din. They had their practical in Front Office, Silk Garden Restaurant, Café Boleh-Service and kitchen and house care. They blended in so well that they were considered one of the team from day one and were

significantly missed when they left. They do PPPJB proud indeed.

Mauna Lani -- As a token of appreciation for receiving the AAA Five Diamond Award for 1999, associates were treated to an extra special meal of prime rib with baked potato and all the trimmings, including ice cream and cake too. The associate cafeteria was transformed into a fine dining room and the Executive Committee put on aprons as they served beverages and bussed tables.

Malacca -- The Legacy Team gathered for an evening of fun on 16th December for their 1st

Annual Associates' Party, with the theme of "Back to the 60s and 70s". Every member of The Legacy team went home with a Lucky Draw gift that night. The "Best Dressed Associates" were Mohd Shafique (Saffron Kitchen) and Rosmaniza (Room Stay Services). . . The annual volleyball tournament saw the Room Stay Services and Safety & Security departments meeting in the final with Safety & Security winning 3 to 2 in the 5 sets. . . Two separate Conversational English classes are held for frontliners and other departments. . . A 2 1/2 hour CPR training course was held for 17 Operation Managers by Dr Tan Kim Hock, a consultant anaesthetist from Southern Hospital, Malacca.

Dhaka -- Training sessions included fire fighting and safety procedure for housekeeping, sanitation and hygiene for F&B and POMEC, English Language classes, computer training classes, Spirit of Hospitality, Team Leader Monitoring Class, television tuning for housekeeping, industrial attachment for Travel and Tourism Institute, English for the orphans and sharing of the 1999 Budget seminar with all management and associates. . . The Dhaka Sheraton team defeated the hotel team in a friendly soccer match. Both GM jointly inaugurated the match with a penalty shoot out between them.

Pangkor -- Gopal & Eugenie (People Innovation) and Shirllay (Manager, People Innovation) attended the amendment of Malaysian Employment Act 1955 conducted by the MEF Ipoh Branch.

Singapore -- The WOW winner for front of the house is Stevenson Chin (Banquet Operations) for returning a wallet containing $1,000 that he had found in the male locker room. . . The Charity Esplanade Fun Run organised by the Oriental Singapore to improve ties between the three hotels, Marina Mandarin, Oriental and Pan Pacific saw 7 associates taking part. Jeanie Tay (Reservations) was first in the female category and Chua Chit Seng (Keyaki Kitchen) was fourth in the male section.

Glenmarie -- Vijay Kumar, Dir. of HR/Security attended a meeting/discussion for all Training Managers of the DRB-HICOM group of companies. A committee was formed to compile the group's one-year training plan & organise joint training programmes. . . All associates participated in a 2.5 km walkathon organised by the Sports & Recreation Club. The new club T-shirts were handed out to all participants. . . The bowling competition organised by the Sports & Recreation Club saw a total of 8 teams participating. Steven Loh (Financial Controller) & Norshima (F&B)emerged winners in the men & women's categories.

Vancouver -- 460 associates participated in 4-hour sessions on fire extinguisher use, violence in the workplace and other safety related issues.

KLIA -- The implementation of Incentive Scheme this month will see all IBU associates salary fluctuate depending on the restaurants profit. . . A group of Team Leaders attended "Round Table of Talent". They all stayed in house for two days and underwent various training exercises. The attendees will be doing a presentation to the management on the weaknesses and strength of the training next month. . . Most associates have completed the Fire, Safe and Healthy training conducted in the hotel. . . Lloyd Daser is a great grand father now. The hotel family tree has sprouted 21 managers and the 21 managers gave birth to 4 kids each and their kids gave birth to their own children. This family tree program was started to enhance the communication flow from the top level to every associate. The parent of each associate is fully responsible to the development of his or her kids and if the kids face any problem they can always get their parents assistance. Parent and kids will be having informal weekly family meeting. . . The managers organised a surprise Christmas Party for associates. The Party was held at the Gateway Ballroom. Christmas mood filled the room as the room was superbly decorated and Christmas carols was on the air. The managers were on standby at the entrance to welcome the associates and lead them to their seats. The managers were fully in charge of organising the event, including food preparation and cooking.

San Francisco -- The annual Christmas party for children of the associates was held complete with the presence of Santa and Mrs Claus. 200 very happy children attended with each child receiving a gift. . .Each associates received a $10 gift certificate from Safeway Supermarket for their Thanksgiving dinner as a token of thank you from the hotel in appreciation of their good work and effort in making the hotel one of the best in San Francisco.

KL -- Care Agents participated in a Team Building exercise which included outdoor activities and jungle trekking. . . Department Heads attended Point of Difference Meeting to ensure all department heads come up with ideas and action plans for 1999"s Business Plan. . .Associates attended basic Japanese conversational classes. . . The Bullet Proof Managers Series was attended by Managers and Department Heads to equip them with knowledge to handle conflicts and present effectively. . . Front Line Associates participated in the Malaysia Host sessions to teach them to be courteous when dealing with guests. . . Basic Word Lotus Skills and grooming were taught. . . Norah Nongchik and Mohd Fadzli attended the Diploma in Hotel Management - F&B Promotions course.

Manila -- Selected Business Associates of the Sales Department started their training last December 1 and will end January 15.

Johor Bahru -- Arun Chandran, IBU Operations Manager, and Affendee, Lobby Lounge Supervisor, were at The Pan Pacific Resort Pangkor for two weeks to assist in the resort's heavy F&B activities during the Christmas and New Year. . . Asami Takasawa, Director Of Education/Training of The Pan Pacific Hotel Yokohama, was here to observe the running of the Round Table Of Talent conference.

Glenmarie -- Koh Boon Seng (Executive Chef) will assist with kitchen operations at PPPJB for one week in every month.

Pangkor -- 11 associates from PP KL, Glenmarie and KLIA will be on hand to help out during the peak season of Christmas and New Year which will feature four key events with the Mardi Gras New Year=s Eve party.

Singapore -- James L. Papineau is the new Director of Marketing. Jim has 19 years sales and marketing experience in the hospitality industry and will be responsible for overseeing all sales areas including catering sales and marketing communications.

Johor Bahru -- Zaleha Ibrahim has been promoted to Rooms Manager from Executive Housekeeper.

Vancouver -- Tim Morrison has been promoted to Assistant F&B Director from his previous position of Banquet Captain.

Pangkor -- Edward Lim has been appointed Restaurant Manager.

Kota Kinabalu -- Opening General Manager, Thomas Mueller left the hotel on December 15, 1998 for Sydney. A farewell party cum welcome to the new General Manager, Mr L. Marc Hamel was held with Mr Umehara in attendance.

KLIA -- Mohd Yunus is the new Manager for Guest Relations.

Mauna Lani -- Congratulations to the team for achieving the AAA Five Diamond Award for 1999. . . Other awards won included America=s Top Table Award by Gourmet Magazine, 50 Greatest Tennis Resorts by Tennis Magazine and the Gold Medal Award by Golf Magazine for 1998/99.

Pangkor -- The Camp ABLE project was a success with 100 kids participating.

Whistler -- This Lodge celebrated it=s Anniversary on December 15th. All new and past associates joined in the celebration.

KLIA -- Datuk Seri Dr Ling Leong Sik, Transport Minister attended a Course organised by the Customs Department . . . Datuk Abu Hassan Omar, Chief Minister of Selangor state, attended a government function at the hotel. . . Datuk Sabbaruddin Chik, Minister of Tourism broke his fast at the Pasta & Mee Restaurant . . .Tun Daim Zainuddin, Minister of Special Events had lunch with hotel owners at the Pacific Market Restaurant

Yokohama -- To cover a slow season during January-March, an article introducing the hotel=s special winter plan was featured in the Asahi Newspaper's supplement "Mullion@. Also, a mention of free accommodation with breakfast for three couples to be presented to their readers attracted 15,000 applicants by postcard. . . World famous opera singer, Ms. Kathleen Battle, will stay at the Presidential Suite. She was recommended to stay at our hotel instead of her regular lodging in Tokyo by the conductor of New York Phil Harmonic Orchestra, Mr. Kurt Masur, who was a guest in June. Ms. Battle will hold a concert at Minato Mirai Concert Hall. . . SRS Marketing Circle Japan 1998 was held at the hotel with attendance by other member hotels and also Vice President of SRS-WORLDHOTELS, Mr. Roland Jegge.

San Francisco -- On Dec. 1st, the city of San Francisco experienced a power shut-down for about 5 hours which meant no traffic signals or trolley buses even. The hotel=s emergency generator was able to sustain the operation of one guest and service elevator as well as low-level public area lighting. One associate, doorman James Spencer took the limelight when he was quoted in the San Francisco Examiner as AA couple of hours into the blackout.....the only person I saw directing traffic was Pan Pacific Hotel doorman James Spencer, a veteran of the 1965 New York blackout.@James, seeing the snarl of traffic at the corner, went to the middle of the intersection and directed cars and trucks until the traffic lightened. . . Celebrity guests included Malcolm Jamal Warner of the Cosby Show, Nigel Kennedy - noted violinist; Judith Light of AWho=s the Boss@ tv show; Depeche Mode - band and Peter Jennings, TV news anchorman.

Johor Bahru -- Popular Malaysian singer, Ella, was at the hotel recently to launch a new product. . . Malaysian Minister of Works, Dato' Seri Samy Vellu, and his wife were guests of honour when they stayed at the hotel for their son's wedding which was also held here.

Kota Kinabalu -- The 2nd group of Government sponsored trainees graduated recently after a six months course of specialization in five hotel functions. 100 persons participated in the graduation. Sabah Hotel Association supported the first "Malaysia Host"industry organized programme for front liners on December 17, 1998. Donna Webster & Freddie Coleman were the main people spearheading this program for all the Hotels of Sabah. The Minister of Tourism was the guest of honor.

Manila -- The hotel hosted the Christmas special of the top rating progam. Partners Mel & Jay at the Pacific Lounge. Guests of the show included the very famous divas of the Philippine music industry Zsa-Zsa Padilla, Regine Velasquez and Jaya. . . A special dinner was held for the Australian-Philippine Dance Sport Team participated by 5 Australian pairs of Dance Sport Champions and the Philippine team.

Malacca -- The Malacca Hotels' Association held their annual dinner at the hotel. Guest of honour was Datuk Poh Ah Tiam, State Tourism, Culture and Environment Committee Chairman. Guests were entertained by Kenny and Chee from Baba & Nyonya Show. . . The team celebrated the hotel=s 1st Anniversary on the 24th December 1998. Guests who patronized the hotel that day received a set of vouchers offering a Superior Room inclusive of breakfast at an attractive RM 130nett, a 30% food discount for a la carte menu items and free dessert for meals at Silk Specialty Restaurant. Vouchers are valid from 1st January 1999 till 30th April 1999.

Singapore -- 36 associates received awards at the 4th Excellent Service Awards Presentations Ceremony recently. 11 received Gold Awards, 25 Silver and 2 Star Awards. Amongst them, two are speech and hearing impaired members, Sulaiman Bin Buang (Corridor Steward) who received the Gold Award whilst Idrus Bin Jumari (Corridor Steward) got a Silver. 71 year old Vincent Justine Silverster (Junior Steward Supervisor) received a Silver Award. He received commendations for not taking any medical leave for 12 months in 1991, 1995 and 1996. . . One of India=s highest paid film stars Rajnikanth stayed at the hotel. . . GM Steve Halliday was interviewed on the AM Singapore television programme on the hotel=s charity initiatives in the midst of the economic slowdown.

Dhaka -- VIP events held at the hotel included the Annual General Meeting of Beximco, International Surgical Congress, Annual General Meeting of Bangladesh Pharmaceuticals Chemists and American Cup Golf 98 Gala Dinner.

AA leader is one who knows the way, goes the way and shows the way@

AI learned that the only way you are going to get anywhere in life is to work hard at it. If you do, you=ll win - if you don=t you won=t@

KL -- While Agotong-royong@ (mass cleaning) is an annual affair at the hotel, associates have decided to add a touch of Hollywood to it. Whenever there is cleaning to be done, guests now call on the Dirt Busters for the job. This is the name associates call themselves whenever there is a gotong-royong session. Inspired by the box-office movie Ghostbusters, some 80 Dirt Busters- from various departments spent three hours tidying the hotel grounds. They aim to make The Pan Pacific the cleanest and neatest hotel in town. The Dirt Busters- will carry out a thorough cleaning of the hotel compound once every three months. . . The very first edition of Jurassic Park News was circulated to associates and colleagues of Pan Pacific Hotels and Resorts. This quarterly in-house associates newsletter will help the team get to know what"s going on in the hotel from another fun perspective. The newsletter was put together by a committee and produced in-house.

Johor Bahru -- The Round Table of Talent was held with 28 participants from the various departments. The participants were given a VIP welcome followed by cocktail reception with a Caribbean theme where the hotel's Exco and Department Heads served them and provided the entertainment for the night. Then came two gruelling days of brainstorming and work. The RTT ended with a formal gala dinner in the Permata Ballroom attended by Mr & Mrs Umehara were dressed as a Malay Sultan and Sultanah respectively. The participants were knighted by Mr Umehara with a 'keris', a traditional Malay dagger. . . A tahlil or thanksgiving prayer session was held for all Muslim associates to welcome the holy month of Ramadan. Ramadan is the fasting month when Muslims refrain from consuming any food or drink from dawn till dusk.

KLIA -- The Guest Care Committee evaluates and analyses Guest Comments cards on a weekly basis and proposed solutions to make the guest stay more enjoyable and memorable.

Pangkor -- GM William McNamara and all team professionals presented the 1999 Business Plan and Budget Targets to associates to provide clear guidelines for the resort=s objectives in 1999.

Manila -- A Mexican theme party was held for the hotel's 20 long staying guests. The guests were wowed, dazzled, and bewitched once again as the butlers served authentic Mexican dishes and drinks while the guests were being serenaded by mariachis. . . The Singing Butlers have started serenading in- house guests as well as guests of the Adriatico Square with Christmas songs.

Johor Bahru --Lewis Raj, Sales Manager, exceeded Ms Jayanthi Thevarajah's expectations when he volunteered to drive her to the airport after she had lost her handbag and all her cash and credit cards. Jayanthi, who was with the British Council, was left stranded at the hotel without a single cent and was relieved and very happy with Lewis' kind gesture.

San Francisco -- Between Thanksgiving and Christmas, guests checking into the hotel were offered hot cider and cookies.

Glenmarie -- Nadarajah & Annuar (Engineering), Kamarulzaman (Housekeeping) and Ujang ( Gardener) managed to prevent and reprimand an outsider who intended to take a bag belonging to a guest, at the poolside. In appreciation for their sense of responsibility and quick action, they were each presented with a certificate and a gift by GM John Malins.

KL -- The APEC Business Summit Delegates were in-house to attend the APEC meeting in Putra World Trade Centre. 320 rooms were taken up and a banner was put up to welcome delegates. In addition, welcome letters were placed in the rooms with chocolate pralines served on bamboo platter as turn down gifts.

Johor Bahru -- The Muslim fasting month is here again, and to make the breaking of fast experience a little different, Selasih has engaged Jauhari to make it unforgettable. Jauhari is a group of male singers who have a repertoire of contemporary religious songs, most of which are performed acapella.

Yokohama -- The Italian Christmas Fair was saw Chef Fabio Tacchella from Italy preparing special set menus for lunch for dinner followed by a cooking class, demonstrating his specialities.

Pangkor -- The Pacific Terrace / Bar has soft-opened. Located on the ground floor facing the Pacific Pool, this outlet offers Cocktail service with strolling entertainment and can accommodate 40 people. It offers casual dining from a choice of fresh seafood, Chef=s Special and Chinese cuisine. If weather permits, dining under the stars by the pool in also an option.

San Francisco -- Thanksgiving brought the implementation of afternoon tea service around the fountain in the lobby. This was well received by both guests and local shoppers.

Malacca -- Saffron is offering a traditional ABuka Puasa@ (breaking of fast) menu for guests at RM 30nett per person while children eat at half price.

Kota Kinabalu -- Waves Pool - Happening by the sea. A great opportunity for fishing enthusiasts includes fishing rod and bait. Buy two of Haagan Dazs ice cream and the third is free of charge for the month of December 1998.

Manila -- A gala food presentation by the outlets at Adriatico Square was featured when the hotel became the venue of the taping of one of the top-rating talk shows in the Philippines, Mel and Jay. The episode was the show's Christmas presentation which featured three of the top divas of the local music scene.

KLIA -- The Team decided to merge the decoration for both Hari Raya and Christmas together. The most interesting feature is the Ginger Bread House which is actually built with gingerbread in the shape of a traditional Malay house and decorated with a Christmas touch. Poinsettias, Christmas Garlands and Christmas miniatures fill this traditional Malay house, giving a wonderful new look to the conventional Ginger Bread house. Various types of festively wrapped Christmas and Hari Raya cookies and cakes are displayed for sale at The Ginger Bread House.

KL -- More than 50 guests gathered for Chapter 10 of the Winemaker"s Dinner. The event, held in the intimate surroundings of the Bilik Seraya was graced by Richard Winchester, General Manager-Sales, Arrowfield Wines of Australia.The 10th chapter of the Winemaker"s series proved to be one of the more interesting ones, with fine Australian wines, matched with culinary gems from various Asian countries prepared by Project Chef, Marco Kiefer and his seven-member culinary team. . . The Spend RM300 and Stay One Night For Free promotion, valid from November 1 to December 31, 1998 is applicable to all guests who spend a minimum of RM300 in a single bill when dining at Keyaki, Hai Tien Lo and Selera.

Hospitals are sued by 7 foot doctors....

Pangkor -- The resort will now be know as The Pan Pacific Resort Pangkor Island and all materials will be adapted to show this. This is to create awareness at the international level that Pangkor is an island.

Yokohama -- Key associates in Banquet, Operation and Sales will have a brainstorming session to find a creative way to capture business for Corporate Banquet when economy is going downwards. The Winter Shopping package which generated 73 R/N in one month which is valid from November 13, 1998 to December 30, 1998 excluding the period of December 20-25 will be offered during Christmas season.

Glenmarie -- A long-stay & corporate guest cocktail was held at the Traveller's Palm roof top to meet new guests and also to wish everyone a Merry Christmas & Happy New Year. . . A cake presentation & afternoon tea was organised together with PPKL & KLIA, for the Malay Mail 102nd anniversary celebrations. They were presented with a 10-foot long yule log cake, lighted with 102 candles at their office. Associates from the respective hotels were on hand to assist with the presentation. . . Presentation of Xmas & Ramadan goodies were made to the media / press members. Corporate calendars were also distributed. . . Karin Reid of the London RSO stayed for on one night at the resort during her Fam.. trip to Asia. A site inspection and a brief tour of our main competitors were conducted. . . The Central Region Foosball Finals organised by Mild 7, was held at the Traveller's Palm Fun Pub.

Singapore -- MIP Asia (Marche International des Programmes) one of the three major international film and programme market shows alongside France based MIP TV and MIP Com held its 1st show in Singapore at the Suntec Convention Centre. . . Cable and Satellite Asia 98 held in conjunction with MIP Asia saw 120 companies participating with over 200 delegates staying at the hotel. . . The Club 1 organised a gift decorating workshop specially for secretaries from top supporting companies. 29 secretaries attended workshop and learnt how to make Christmas baskets, bows and teddy bears. . . A POSH Club dinner was held for the hotel=s top supporting clients where Jim Papineau, the new Director of Marketing was introduced.

Whistler -- The 1998 World Cup Festival was a success despite the cancellation of the downhill ski event. The Lodge hosted the Hong Kong Bank of Canada, the title sponsor of the Whistler Winter Start Festival. The weekend was filled with music activities and events, The highlight of the festival was the snowboard competition on Blackcomb Mountain which attracted many fans and athletes. . . Whistler / Vancouver has been chosen to represent Canada=s bid for the 2010 Winter Olympics. . . Evangeline Imperial, Director of Sales attended ski and trade shows in London, Dallas and Los Angeles. She also attended a show in Seattle with Maria Dempsey (San Francisco RSO) and Jennifer Glynn of Vancouver. . . GM Desmond Acheson returned from a visit to Asia where he visited the Yokohama hotel for the first time. He was very impressed and excited about the potential for associates exchanges in the future. Thanks to Kanako Matsukawa, Akiko Tanaka, Ken Ide, Mr. Komatsu and team. . . The forecast for the first three months of 1999 is very encouraging, an average of over 10% occupancy forecast over 1998 actual occupancy.

Dhaka -- The hotel sponsored food, refreshment and drinks for the American Cup Golf Tournament 98, the premier golf event of the country.

KL -- A grand reception to announce the appointment of new GM Christo Diamandopoulos was also to thank all valued friends who had supported the hotel this past year. They included guests from corporate companies, government bodies, airlines, travel trade and press. Male guests were each given a sarong whilst ladies received a long scarf. . . Christopher Lee attended the World Travel Mart and made sales calls in London. . . Ananth Ganesh and Mathew Mani made a sales trip to Sungei Petani and Kulim (in Kedah). . . The hotel hosted its monthly cocktail at The Atrium on November 26, 1998 . . . Various departments took part in a telemarketing exercise to promote and sell the hotel"s DA Package and School Holiday Package. A total of 3,000 calls were made. . . The hotel hosted lunch and site inspection for a group of Hungarian agents and another one of Australian Corporate / Travel Agents organised by MAS.

Mauna Lani -- The hotel played host to the prestigious Boeing group. The hotel has an excellent offer for groups in May, July, September and December 1999. Run-on-house rates will begin at US$165 for a minimum booking of 25 rooms.

Thailand -- The 13th Asian Games was held in Bangkok which boosted the occupancy for hotels in Bangkok.

Malaysia -- The Sultan Abd Aziz Shah Airport (SAAS) in Subang remains the preferred choice of many Malaysians who use domestic flights according to Malaysia Airports Berhad. Currently, there are 25 scheduled flights, which uses the Boeing 737, operating out of the airport and most of the times, the flights are full. The passenger loading factor of the 3 major airlines operating out of the airport in Subang - Malaysia Airlines, AirAsia and Pelangi Air - averages 90%. About 6,000 passengers board planes to other destinations in the country from the SAAS airport each day, an increase of 5,000 passengers since MAS resumed a total of 17 domestic flights on October 25th. The major reason for the popularity of the airport in Subang compared to KLIA is its distance from the city.

Tourist arrivals in Peninsular Malaysia dropped 21 per cent in the first six months of this year, attributed both to internal & external factors, with February recording the biggest month-on-month drop with arivals down by 79.9 per cent. The Ministry of Culture, Arts & Tourism noted that with the exception of the UK, US and West Asian countries, the number of tourists from other nations was lower during the period. Misguided information by the foreign media also contributed to the drop in tourist arrivals.

However, promotional efforts will still go on - during the Asian Games in Bangkok & at the WTM '99 executive council meeting scheduled next year in Malaysia. This will serve as another platform to enhance the country's position in the international tourism industry.

Malacca -- The STAY 3 PAY 2 PACKAGE offers Weekday - RM 198nett per night. (min of 2 nights, 3rd night free) Superior Room inclusive of breakfast for 2 persons; Weekend - RM218nett per night (min of 2 nights, 3rd night free) Superior Room inclusive of breakfast for 2 persons. Optional package of RM220nett for a Superior Room inclusive of breakfast for 2 persons. Packages valid until 30th June 1999. . . The GOLFER'S PACKAGE A special golfer's package inclusive of accommodation tailor-made to suit every golfer's needs.

Weekday - Golfing Single : RM 260nett per pax - Golfing Double : RM 190nett per pax -Double (Non-golfing Spouse) : RM 140nett per pax

Weekend - Golfing Single : RM 320nett per pax - Golfing Double : RM 230nett per pax - Double (Non-golfing) : RM 170nett per pax

Dhaka -- The Local Plus package offers US$55 (single/double) for deluxe room and US$75 (single/double) for Courtyard Suite room with breakfast at Pacific Lounge of Ifter during Ramadan, use of health club and pool. This is valid only for locals and resident expatriates in Bangladesh from 17 December to 31 January 1999.

KL -- 99 Rooms will be made available at RM99 nett each day from December 26 to 31, 1998 to residents of Singapore and Malaysia. . . The KL Shopping Package offers a special rate of RM216 nett for guests who are currently holidaying our sister properties. Before leaving for home, they can stay at in Kuala Lumpur to do their very last minute shopping. Posters are being put up at all sister properties in Malaysia. . . D.A. Package at RM216 nett per room per night based on single or twin sharing, inclusive of buffet breakfast and free meal worth RM48 per day, non-accumulative. Valid until January 1, 1999. . . School Holiday Special priced at RM198 nett per room per night, single/twin sharing. Package is inclusive of buffet breakfast, and children sharing same room as parents stay free. Valid until December 31, 1998.

Yokohama -- The Winter Shopping package offers:

(SGL/DBL) Sun.-Fri \29,000

Sat./Day before Hol. \38,000 Including service charge; Excluding tax

Benefits:

*Choice of BF or Lunch *Late check-out till 1:00 p.m. *5% discount coupon at Queen's East department store * Gift- Original Tea Leaf set and Queen's East original notebook *24 hours complimentary parking *Kids Square's baby sitting service special discount

The Family Invitation package for families offers rates for 2 rooms as follows:

*Valid Period December 27-30; January 3-10 * Room Type Deluxe Twin

*Rates 2 rooms(3-4 persons) \35,000++

2 rooms(5 persons) \40,000 ++ with 1 extra bed

*Benefit Complimentary breakfast for children under 18 years old

Pangkor -- The Fishing package offers RM498 per pax (minimum 4 persons) inclusive of1 night accommodation, breakfast, lunch-box and dinner with equipment and bait provided. . . The Jungle Trekking package is RM 15 per person (minimum 2 persons) inclusive of 1 bottle of mineral water and a Pangkor Island Wildlife booklet.

Everybody repeat after me ....@We are all individuals@.....

San Francisco -- Tony Zeladon (Guest Room Services) volunteered to head up the drive for relief items for the Central America victims of Hurricane Mitch. He collected $200 in addition to many clothing and food items.

Yokohama -- The team succeeded in reaching the goal of 2000 gifts for Christmas Charity Drive by collecting 2011 gifts from associates and members of the public. Gifts will be delivered to 36 orphanages throughout Kanagawa area by us being their Santa Claus for approximately 1500 children between age of 0-18 years old.

Kota Kinabalu --13 orphans, 8 workers and 3 sisters fromThe Benulu Rumah Kanak-Kanak (Orphanage House in Tambunan) paid a visit to the hotel. They stayed 1 night and joined a childrens party at Sutera Harbor Golf and Country Club (who donated their party fee and a present), had dinner with the Johor Bahru trainees and hotel associates and had a great time in the pool. Each orphan had an individual outfit given to them to wear to the party, which had been hand picked according to their age, size and sex. The associates from all areas contributed to a fund to supply the orphanage with non-perishable items as their food supplies are not consistent. This will be an ongoing community project for the hotel and Sutera Harbour.

Dhaka -- The hotel and the Coastal Area Research Development and Management Assocation jointly organised the Children=s painting show at the hotel poolside. The theme was ASave the Royal Bengal Tiger@ and 125 children participated. The Ambassdor of the USA to Bangladesh Mr. David C. Holzman presented trophies to the winners.

Malacca -- The Community Care Committee has embarked on a Christmas Wish Tree Project to collect funds for their Legacy Charity Fund. Stars are sold at RM10.00 for a little star and RM20.00 for a Big Star. Guests can write their wishes on it and then hang it at their favourite spot on the tree.

Singapore -- Together with the National Kidney Foundation, the hotel is organising a series of activities including a wishing well, adopting a bear, ordering a snowman cocktails etc whereby proceeds will support the NKF which provides highly subsidized dialysis treatment. The hotel decided not to send greetings cards to all its business partners and friends, rather a cash donation was made to the NKF fund.

KLIA -- The Community Care Committee have created "Ketupat Potpourri"; Ketupat weaving is a Malay tradition, famous during Hari Raya festival. It is usually given with rice inside but the hotel=s version is with scented rose petals and named "Ketupat Potpourri@. These will be sold to hotel guests at RM5.00 each. The guest can buy these potpourris and hang it on our Christmas Tree or keep it for their own. Proceeds from the sale will pay for a tour of the airport for the children from the "Rumah Keluarga Kami" Orphanage, followed by a lunch treat at Mc Donalds. The children will also receive stationery items as gifts.

Vancouver -- The annual breakfast hosted by the hotel on behalf of the Christmas Bureau was a sucees with members of the public bringing gifts for under-privileged children and receiving a sumptuous buffet breakfast in return. Over 5,000 new toys were collected and about 4,000 people turned up. . . The Human Resources team decorated the Christmas tree in Canada Place with decorations provided by the Pastry Shop. Many companies purchased trees with donations going to the B.C. Children=s Hospital.

KL -- Twenty charity organisations in Selangor and Federal Territory took part in a day-long charity carnival at the hotel. Each charity home set up a stall to sell merchandise to raise funds for their respective homes. Items like handicraft, greeting cards, Christmas decorations, stuffed toys, clothes, dried flowers and food and beverages were sold at bargain prices. The carnival was launched by Cancerlink Foundation patron Toh Puan Dr Aishah Ong. The carnival held at the Pacific Ballroom was open to the public from 10 am to 10 pm. . . The Malay Mail celebrated its 102nd anniversary on December 14, 1998 with a high tea reception hosted by Pan Pacific Hotels and Resorts in Malaysia. The simple but meaningful birthday bash took place at Balai Berita, and senior management from KL, KLIA and Glenmarie were on hand to celebrate with The Paper That Cares. The Malay Mail editor Fauzi Omar in turn thanked the Group for its continuous support through the years.

Pangkor -- The Christmas Kids Party included beach games and viewing of the movie Land Before Time. 12 children from the local orphanage home were invited by the resort whilsts guests and associates children paid RM 20 each which included high tea.

Emerald Management Company

Last month we stopped where THI Hawaii changed its name to EHC (Emerald Hotels Corporation). That was in 1981 and it was incorporated as the subsidiary of THI. THI had the management contract of Hawaiian Regent Hotel, which was terminated in December 1983. EHC being the holding company of Hawaiian Regent hotel dissolved when it sold the hotel. But in order to take over the management agreements (Mauna Lani and Anaheim) of EHC another company by the name of Emerald Management Company (EMC) was incorporated. From then it was a general understanding that properties located east of the International Date Line were to be undertaken by EMC and those located west of IDL were by THI.

The Name "Pan Pacific"

Before when THC (Tokyu Hotel Chain) was in charge of the overseas hotels all the properties had "Tokyu" in their names. For example, "Guam Tokyu Hotel" and "Seoul Tokyu Hotel". In June 1974 the management of Seoul Tokyu Hotel received an advice from the government of Republic of Korea that there had been nationalistic sentiments among Korean people against foreign (especially Japanese) investment, therefore they advised that the word "Tokyu" be changed to HANGLE word in order to alleviate these sentiments.

Seoul Tokyu Hotel management asked the THI Board's approval to follow this advice and change the logo. "The Pearl of Seoul" was their suggestion. THI Board consented to this and even decided that, on this occasion we would change the name of other project to "The Pearl of (Name of location)".

Korean people were not impressed by this name neither did the staff of THI support the name. THI undertook naming exercise but there was no overwhelming candidate when Chairman Gotoh finally picked up the words of "Pan Pacific" which went well with the concept of the Pacific Rim that Tokyu was advocating. This name was approved at the Board Meeting held on 26 December, 1974.

Opening of Sales Office

THI had been delegating the sales and marketing activities to RHI in respect of Hawaiian Regent, Indra Regent, Pattaya Regent and Hotel Le Lagon, and THC in respect of Seoul Tokyu Hotel.

As an independent company THI realized that it should have its own sales offices. As phase 1, Tokyo Sales Office and Los Angeles Sales Office started the activities on October 1st, 1975. Sydney Sales Office was opened April 1st, 1976 and Singapore on June 1st, 1976.

In connection with opening the sales office in Los Angeles THI established the Pan Pacific Hotels, Inc., its subsidiary company in USA. There was an intention to expand its sales and marketing activities in North America and this company was planned to have sales offices in New York, Chicago and Dallas.

Withdrawal from Seoul, Korea After 11 years operation Seoul Tokyu Hotel (STH) closed its door in August 31, 1982. Seoul Tokyu Hotel leased the upper half of the office building. After a while the owner started to complain that the rent they get from the office was more than what he gets from the hotel floor and demanded a large increase of the rental. Although the hotel was located in a very good area (in front of Nam Dae Mun), the hotel was originally designed as office and it was loosing competitive edge against newly constructed hotels. The hotel could not respond to the demand.

(to be continued)

If you would like to know anything about Tokyu Corporation please e-mail me at:

kazuyoshi.shimojima@tkk.tokyu.co.jp