GEORGE TOWN: The Royal Penang Hotel on Jalan Larut here will close after Nov 14 for a restructuring exercise.

       Its general manager Amran Taib said that due to the Covid-19 pandemic, the hotel will be closed indefinitely for restructuring.

       “We do not know how long the hotel will remain closed as the economy is uncertain. We might reopen or we might not.

       “Things will be decided if the economy bounces back after this or if we are able to get things back on track,” he said when contacted Thursday (Sept 16).

       He said the closure would affect over 90 staff members at the hotel.

       “Retrenchment notices have been served and the benefits will be calculated according to the collective agreement.

       “We will follow through in consolidating the retrenchment benefits.

       “Proper compensation will be given based on what has been agreed between the staff and the hotel in their collective agreement,” he said.

       He added that the closure of the hotel will not affect operations at Penang Plaza, which is an annexe building adjacent to the hotel.

       “Penang Plaza will continue operating as usual.

       “We would like to thank all Penangites and those who have supported our business all this while,” he added.