General Manager Abdul Haris shares his journey in hospitality, his vision for family-oriented serviced residences, and how Somerset Grand Citra and Ascott Kuningan are leading the way in sustainable living in Jakarta.
With over two decades of professional experience across international hotel brands, Abdul Haris has built his career on passion, service, and leadership. Now serving as General Manager of Somerset Grand Citra Jakarta and Ascott Kuningan Jakarta, he brings a wealth of expertise and a personal philosophy rooted in servant leadership.
In this interview, Abdul Haris discusses the growing importance of family-friendly hospitality in Jakarta, how his properties create home-like experiences for long-stay guests, and the role sustainability plays in shaping the future of serviced residences.
Hello, Abdul Haris! Please introduce yourself to our readers.
I’ve been in the hospitality industry for over 20 years, with my three amazing kids as my biggest source of motivation. Throughout my journey, I’ve taken on a wide range of roles, from waiter and concierge to room attendant, which has given me positive and valuable experience across international hotel brands, serviced residences, and even cruise lines.
What matters most to me is being a servant leader. I believe in knowing your team and your guests, walk the talk and leading by example are the most powerful tools for managing a property and inspiring a team. My personal motto is simple: If you’re going to do something, do it properly. If you’re not willing to do it, then just don’t do it. Because passion is essential, then it should come from the heart if you truly want to make a meaningful impact.
As a person who has been working in this sector for a long time, we would like to know your opinion on how important the family-friendly concept in Jakarta’s hospitality market is today.
The family-friendly concept has become more than just a trend—it’s a key driver in Jakarta’s hospitality market. Families, both local and expatriate, are seeking more than a place to sleep; they’re looking for comfort, safety, wellness, and convenience all in one. At the same time, business travellers are increasingly prioritising properties that offer a balance between productivity and relaxation, especially for longer stays.
In today’s landscape, offering tailored experiences for both families and professionals isn’t just a nice touch, it is a strategic advantage. Properties that can seamlessly cater to both segments are setting themselves apart in a highly competitive market.
Now, let’s talk about your properties. Both Somerset Grand Citra and Ascott Kuningan cater to long-stay guests and families. How do you ensure a home-like experience for them?
We focus on creating a sense of belonging. Both properties offer spacious, fully furnished apartments with kitchens, laundry facilities, and cosy living spaces—so guests can settle in, not just check in. Our teams go the extra mile with personalised service, making sure families feel cared for from day one as your home away from home, which is in line with our brand promise: Stay your way, global living with unlimited Possibilities.
What trends do you see in family travel and long-stay accommodation in Jakarta, and how are your properties adapting?
We’re seeing a rise in multi-generational travel and longer stays, especially among expatriates. Families want flexibility, privacy, and access to lifestyle amenities. That is why we have designed our properties to offer everything from one-bedroom units with separate living rooms, two- and three-bedroom units, to wellness facilities and proximity to business districts and malls.
What unique family-oriented facilities or services set your properties apart from other residences in Jakarta?
Somerset Grand Citra offers family-friendly amenities like a children’s wading pool, an indoor playground, and sports courts—great for active downtime. Ascott Kuningan Jakarta features a garden terrace, swimming pool, multi-purpose court, and an upcoming Padel court. Guests also enjoy CAELUM Dining & Lounge, perfect for both family meals and business unwinding. Both properties are centrally located in Jakarta, making daily routines and weekend plans effortless. True to Ascott’s vision, we aim to be the preferred hospitality brand—enriching global living through heartfelt experiences.
Are there specific programmes or activities designed for children and young guests?
Yes! We regularly organise kid-friendly activities such as arts and crafts, local cultural sightseeing, and seasonal celebrations and also regular yoga classes to keep our young guests entertained and engaged. At both Somerset Grand Citra and Ascott Kuningan, we’ve also introduced creative sustainability workshops—including tote bag customisation, recycled paper making, and hydroponic planting. These hands-on experiences are designed to teach children about eco-conscious living in a fun and memorable way.
Can you share some feedback or memorable stories from families who have stayed at your properties?
- One family from Australia stayed at Ascott Kuningan Jakarta for over six months and shared how their kids felt “at home” thanks to the friendly staff and safe environment. They even celebrated a birthday in our poolside area, supported by our team, which turned into a heartwarming memory for everyone involved.
- A family from Singapore booked a 3-bedroom unit at Somerset Grand Citra and ended up extending their stay twice because their kids loved the playground and pool so much. They even mentioned how the staff remembered their preferences and greeted them by name—it’s those little things that make a big impact.
Another growing concern for many guests today is sustainability, as it has become a key aspect in hospitality. What initiatives have Somerset Grand Citra and Ascott Kuningan implemented to reduce environmental impact?
Both Somerset Grand Citra and Ascott Kuningan Jakarta are proudly GSTC and EDGE-certified, reflecting our commitment to sustainable hospitality. We’ve achieved savings in energy with the SensorFlow smart AC management system—as well as significant reductions in water usage and embodied materials.
We’ve also embraced solar-powered lighting for outdoor areas, installed EV charging stations, and even introduced premium electric vehicles like the Denza D9 as the hotel car to support green mobility. On the creative side, we’ve launched recycling initiatives, such as repurposing old linens into pillowcases and event decorations.
Sustainability is more than a buzzword—it’s embedded in everything we do. At Ascott, our commitment is reflected through the Ascott Sustainability Programme and Ascott Cares, which are part of our DNA. These initiatives are built on five core pillars: Community, Alliance, Respect, Environment, and Supply Chain—guiding us every single day in how we operate and grow responsibly.
How do you encourage guests, including families, to participate in sustainable practices during their stay, if any?
We keep it simple and engaging. From recycling bins in every unit and reminders to reuse towels, we make eco-friendly choices easy. Our kid-friendly sustainability activities also help families get involved in a meaningful way.
What do you think families, particularly expatriates, appreciate most about sustainable living when choosing serviced residences?
They appreciate transparency and impact. Knowing that their residence supports green initiatives and community engagement gives them peace of mind. It’s about living responsibly without sacrificing comfort.
Looking ahead, how do you envision the role of Ascott properties in leading sustainable hospitality in Jakarta and beyond?
We see ourselves as changemakers. By integrating sustainability into design, operations, and guest experiences, we’re setting a new standard for serviced residences. Our goal is to lead by example, locally and globally, same as with Ascott Mission, that we empower our people to deliver long-term sustainable value for our guests, owners, partners and associates.
Are there any upcoming eco-friendly projects or plans you’re excited to share?
We’re actively exploring smart energy solutions across our properties. At Ascott Kuningan Jakarta, we’re excited to introduce a solar-powered outdoor sauna and Jacuzzi by Q4. Meanwhile, at Somerset Grand Citra, we’re continuing the installation of solar lighting in outdoor areas to enhance energy efficiency. We’re also expanding partnerships with local eco-brands to offer sustainable in-room amenities.
Looking ahead, we plan to launch more community-based sustainability events, especially designed for families and young guests, to promote eco-conscious living in engaging and meaningful ways.
Discover more about Ascott Kuningan Jakarta and Somerset Grand Citra Jakarta!
- Instagram: @ascottkuninganjkt / @somersetgrandcitra
- Website: www.discoverasr.com