This March, Marriott International’s hotels and resorts across Indonesia and Malaysia weren’t just offering comfy beds; they were throwing a full-blown celebration of inclusion! Seriously, over 130+ properties banded together for World Down Syndrome Day (WDSD), painting everything in the iconic blue and yellow hues. Think of it: giant hotel domes lit up, cupcakes in vibrant shades and even mocktails matching the global colours for Down Syndrome awareness. What a spectacle!
Why all the colour? Well, it’s about more than just looking pretty. Marriott is serious about Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI). They’ve even pledged a bold 1% DEI employment goal, aiming to have at least 1% of their workforce be individuals with special needs. Ramesh Jackson, Regional Vice President, put it best: “This is more than a campaign – it’s a movement!” And let’s be honest, who doesn’t love a good movement?
WDSD, celebrated on March 21st, is all about raising awareness and smashing misconceptions. That date? It represents the triplication of the 21st chromosome, the cause of Down syndrome. Since the UN hopped on board in 2012, it’s been a global party of inclusion. And Marriott’s joining in with gusto!
From Barista Dreams to Balloon Arch Wonders
Let’s dive into some of the wild and wonderful ways these hotels celebrated:
The Westin Jakarta
Think guest baristas from POTADS (a Down Syndrome support group) serving up coffee, and a giant canvas for guests to leave blue and yellow handprints. Talk about unity!
The Ritz-Carlton Jakarta, Mega Kuningan
Blue and yellow pins on every associate, themed pastries and poolside cocktails with matching umbrellas.
W Bali – Seminyak
Bold blueberry and lemon cupcakes? Yes, please! They even had fancy macarons with salted caramel and passion fruit.
Courtyard by Marriott Bali Nusa Dua Resort
A ‘21 for 21’ Power Walk (2.1km) symbolised Trisomy 21. Plus, mask-making sessions for kids and a deluge of themed treats.
Miri Marriott Resort & Spa
They brought a blue and yellow cake to the Sunflower Center! How sweet is that?
Le Méridien Kota Kinabalu
Ramadan spirit meets inclusivity! They hosted games and distributed goodie bags at the PSDKK Learning Centre.
Element Kuala Lumpur
Colour-themed pastries for breakfast and a message board brimming with support. A warm, fuzzy feeling guaranteed.
The St. Regis Kuala Lumpur
Pulut Tai Tai, a traditional blue pea flower dish, graced the breakfast buffet and kids got to paint with blue and yellow hues. Culture and inclusion, all in one bite!
This wasn’t just about throwing a party. It’s about empowering through opportunity, a core part of Marriott’s 2025 Social Impact Goals. By investing $35 million in programs that boost hospitality skills for diverse groups, they’re creating real, lasting change.
So, next time you’re booking a stay in Indonesia or Malaysia, remember that Marriott’s not just offering a room; they’re offering a chance to be part of something bigger. A vibrant, inclusive movement that’s painting the world blue and yellow, one cupcake and handprint at a time.
