Etienne Dalançon Reveals More About The Waldorf Astoria Kuala Lumpur

When Conrad Hilton acquired the first Waldorf Astoria in New York, he called the hotel “the greatest of them all”. This year, Hilton Hotels extends this legacy to Malaysia, bringing the greatest of its brands to the city with the debut of Waldorf Astoria Kuala Lumpur.

Slated to open in the fourth quarter of 2026, the hotel will span 23 floors, 268 suites, and eight dining experiences, including the brand’s signature Peacock Alley bar. But beyond hospitality, Waldorf Astoria Kuala Lumpur is also a home for discovery, with a remarkable art collection, worthy of taking its place next to the Islamic Arts Museum Malaysia and The British Museum.

Leading this project is Etienne Dalançon, general manager of Waldorf Astoria Kuala Lumpur, whose charisma is matched by the energy the hotel will soon bring. With more than two decades in luxury hospitality, Dalançon hasn’t just travelled the world—he’s truly lived it, mastering English, French, Japanese, and even earning a Chinese permanent residence card along the way. His last role was at the Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi, where his vision as general manager led the property to achieve top accolades in Travel+Leisure World’s Best Awards, Conde Nast Traveler’s Reader’s Choice Awards, and Forbes Travel Guide Star Awards.

What drew you to hospitality in the first place?

I wasn’t originally meant to work in the hospitality industry—I fell into it. I had a business school background and, after completing my military service in France, it was time to look for a job. My mum and dad suggested four hotels, because summer in Paris is high season for tourism, so I applied. The first company that came back with an answer was the Hotel Plaza Athénée. Being young, I thought, “I’ll try it and, if I don’t like it, I’ll change jobs.” But I really loved it. I fell in love with the hotel; it was beautiful, and the work and team were amazing. It was the best possible job I could ever get. I started in sales and marketing because of my background. Things just kept rolling, and I never left.

What is your vision for Waldorf Astoria Kuala Lumpur?

When people think of Kuala Lumpur, I want them to think of Waldorf Astoria—that’s the goal. The potential is there—the building is amazing, and the location is, in my opinion, unbeatable. It has a rich heritage because it was once the Hotel Istana. People recognise the name and the area. Maybe they got married there, celebrated a birthday, or stayed for a special occasion. And it offers business, shopping, and entertainment all in one location.

Can you share something that guests can look forward to?

Our art is an important component, and I think it’s going to be really special. Many people don’t realise that Malaysia has one of the largest Islamic art collections in the world. Some art pieces were commissioned and made during the hotel’s design and architecture phase, so they are planned to fit perfectly and blend into the place. There are spaces that people won’t expect to find an art piece.

Given the contrast between Kuala Lumpur and the Maldives, what excites you about this new environment?

There are many things that I couldn’t do in the Maldives that I can now do in a city-centre hotel. This feels like a comeback for me because, before the Maldives, I was in Shanghai, and it’s a major hub with so much going on. I enjoy coming back to a city hotel for that reason—for the buzz and the opportunities it brings. Kuala Lumpur has so much to offer. It’s a great mix of everything. You’ve got relaxed people who are still passionate about what they do, social happenings, and a mix of cultures that you don’t find everywhere.

Since arriving in Kuala Lumpur, have you discovered any favourite local foods or experiences?

People might think I’m completely crazy, but I love coconut rice without anything else. I also like satay, otak-otak, curry laksa, and beef rendang.

What has been your favourite place to holiday?

I’m from a very distinctive city in the south of France called Marseille. It’s famous for its harbour, its crowd and it’s the oldest city in France. So, my favourite place to holiday would be home. The sky is blue, the air is crisp, and the Mediterranean Sea is just in front of you.

What job would you have if you weren’t running hotels?

I like using my hands to create things, so, if I weren’t running hotels, I would have probably been a chef. I like the kitchen environment and, if I had more time, I would love to learn more. It could also be something else—maybe a shoemaker or a watchmaker.

Waldorf Astoria Kuala Lumpur

Photography by Anna Rina