Shangri-La Kuala Lumpur has announced the appointment of Eric Fettke as Executive Chef, marking a significant step in the hotel’s ongoing culinary evolution.
Effective February 2026, Chef Fettke assumes leadership of all culinary operations, overseeing the hotel’s diverse portfolio of restaurants, banquet offerings, and in-room dining experiences.
A Global Culinary Journey
With over 27 years of international experience, Chef Fettke brings a wealth of expertise shaped by roles across Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and Southeast Asia.
Prior to his arrival in Kuala Lumpur, he served as Executive Chef at Shangri-La Barr Al Jissah Resort & Spa in Muscat, where he managed culinary operations across three luxury properties, encompassing 15 dining outlets and extensive banquet facilities.
His career has been defined not only by culinary creativity, but also by a strong ability to lead large-scale operations—balancing innovation with consistency in complex, high-volume environments.
Among his notable achievements is his role in IHG’s Culinary Task Force during the Pyeongchang Winter Olympics, where he oversaw food and beverage operations for the hosting hotel group, delivering seamless execution on a global stage.
A Philosophy Rooted in Heritage and Simplicity
Chef Fettke’s culinary philosophy reflects a deeply personal journey.
Raised in a German–South African household, his passion for cooking began in his grandmother’s kitchen—where he developed an early appreciation for seasonal ingredients and intuitive cooking.
Today, his approach combines European precision with global influences, guided by a commitment to sustainability, seasonality, and a farm-to-table ethos. It is a philosophy that prioritises both quality and authenticity, while remaining adaptable to contemporary tastes.
Elevating a Culinary Legacy
At Shangri-La Kuala Lumpur, Chef Fettke will focus on refining the hotel’s culinary identity, with an emphasis on elevating ingredient quality and ensuring consistency across all dining experiences.
His vision is to modernise the hotel’s offerings while respecting its longstanding reputation, creating a balance between tradition and innovation. Equally important is his commitment to nurturing the culinary team—fostering a culture defined by curiosity, collaboration, and excellence.
“I am delighted to join Shangri-La Kuala Lumpur and be part of such an iconic hotel,” said Chef Fettke. “My journey across different regions has shaped my perspective, allowing me to draw inspiration from diverse cultures and cuisines. I look forward to building on the hotel’s strong legacy and creating meaningful dining experiences for our guests.”
A Strategic Moment for Malaysia’s Culinary Scene
The appointment comes at a pivotal time, as Malaysia prepares for Visit Malaysia Year 2026, an initiative expected to spotlight the country’s rich and diverse culinary landscape on the global stage.
Under Chef Fettke’s leadership, Shangri-La Kuala Lumpur is poised to further elevate its dining experiences—blending local heritage with refined, contemporary cuisine.
General Manager Daniel Kaeflein expressed confidence in the appointment, noting that Chef Fettke’s global perspective and respect for culinary traditions align seamlessly with the hotel’s commitment to excellence.
Looking Ahead
As Shangri-La Kuala Lumpur enters this new chapter, the focus is clear: to continue delivering exceptional dining experiences while evolving with the expectations of modern travellers.
With Chef Fettke at the helm, the hotel is set to strengthen its position as a leading culinary destination—where heritage, innovation, and craftsmanship come together on every plate.
