Hyatt Centric Kota Kinabalu
Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia
Explore. Discover. Connect.
The city of Kota Kinabalu offers various cultural experiences that can be explored from different angles. With rich local history and crafts, social activities and natural treasure troves, Kota Kinabalu is an intriguing gem. The Hyatt Centric Kota Kinabalu art collection invites guests to explore, discover, and connect; where nature, local culture, and the joyful Kota Kinabalu vibe are reintroduced through contemporary artworks, capturing the city’s unique spirit.
Carved Traditions
ArtLink commissioned various large-scale wood wall sculptures by native Malaysian artist Annikettnni Madian. Hand-carved, these works are a shining example of her experienced craftsmanship. Madian's artistic career began after years of following her father on his construction projects.
Inspired by Pua Kumbu textiles of the native Sarawak, the first sculpture reinterprets their traditional tapestry patterns into a carved design.
Her intricate patterned works celebrate and blend native culture and the natural landscape of Malaysia, as seen in the second piece. The large-scale features various elements from Kota Kinabalu, including Mount Kinabalu and local flower species, capturing the spirit and biodiversity of the region.
As a striking statement piece in the space, it draws the attention of guests, who often stop to admire it and take photos—making it both a cultural highlight and a memorable part of their stay.
"Wood has a lot of connotations to Malaysian heritage craft, and became a really apt vehicle through which I could bring my local context into contemporary art discourse. I have become really excited by my ability to bring a sense of movement and fluidity into what is considered a hard, inflexible ma terial; it has been an enjoyable challenge."
Annikettnni Madian • Artist
Lift Lobby
ArtLink commissioned a series of stone wall murals for the lift lobbies from Malaysian artist Agnes Lau. Rooted in her studio’s guiding philosophy, "the essence of living," Lau’s work reflects a deep connection between nature, art, and emotional well-being.
Having grown up in Kuala Lumpur, she understands firsthand how surrounding oneself with nature fosters a sense of calm. Her practice focuses on the quiet details of everyday life, using diverse materials to explore and reflect the world around her. In this installation, natural stone forms a meditative composition that invites pause, grounding viewers in the moment.
Explore Nature
Surrounded by pristine beaches, vibrant reefs, and a UNESCO World Heritage Park rich in biodiversity, Kota Kinabalu is a tropical haven. As part of the hotel’s art collection, ArtLink sourced a series of botanical butterfly artworks by botanical artist Raku Inoue.
Inoue’s creative process begins in his own backyard, where he gathers flowers, leaves, and stems to craft intricate compositions using the freshest finds of the day. His work quietly celebrates the beauty of the everyday and encourages viewers to pause, observe, and connect with the natural world around them. This nature-inspired series honors Kota Kinabalu’s unique ecosystem and invites guests to explore nature from unexpected perspectives.
Tea Time
Tea time is a ritual of connection—a moment for gathering among friends, family, and community. Malaysian artist Norleen Nosri draws on this tradition, referencing ceremonial tea objects to create sculptural forms that embody care, hospitality, and togetherness.
ArtLink sourced this delicate teapot sculpture for the hotel’s event space as a symbol of shared moments. Both literal and metaphorical, Nosri’s finely crafted piece serves as a bridge between generations, inviting guests to reflect on the timeless act of coming together.
Project Details
The city of Kota Kinabalu offers various cultural experiences that can be explored from different angles. With rich local history and crafts, social activities and natural treasure troves, Kota Kinabalu is an intriguing gem. The Hyatt Centric Kota Kinabalu art collection invites guests to explore, discover, and connect; where nature, local culture, and the joyful Kota Kinabalu vibe are reintroduced through contemporary artworks, capturing the city’s unique spirit.
Project details
Client: Hyatt Centric
Services provided
