Fahdrul Abd Malek has been appointed as Executive Chef at Plantation Island Resort
Plantation Island Resort has announced the appointment of internationally experienced Executive Chef Fahdrul Abd Malek, marking another exciting milestone in the resort's ongoing investment in enhancing the guest experience.
Bringing more than 25 years of culinary leadership across luxury hotels and award-winning restaurants throughout Malaysia and the Maldives, Chef Malek joins the Plantation Island Resort team at a time of significant transformation, with the resort continuing to invest in new accommodation, dining venues and guest facilities through to 2027.
Known for his calm leadership style, innovative menu development and passion for mentoring culinary teams, Fahdrul has already begun leaving his mark on the resort's dining experiences. Guests can expect refreshed menus across the popular Copra Restaurant themed buffet nights, with a greater emphasis on fresh ingredients, authentic flavours and interactive dining experiences that celebrate both Fijian hospitality and international cuisine.
Beyond the refreshed buffet experience, Fahdrul will oversee one of the most diverse food and beverage operations in Fiji's resort market. Plantation Island Resort now offers six unique dining venues, ranging from the signature Black Coral grill with interactive hot stone dining experience, all day dining at Tavola Restaurant, Copra Restaurant buffet experiences and beachfront pizzas, fresh and healthy fare at Bowl, poolside dining, and an ice cream milk bar for sweet treats. Together, the collection caters to every occasion - from quick family lunches and sunset cocktails to leisurely dinners celebrating local flavours and international favourites - ensuring guests have a variety of culinary experiences throughout their stay.
Plantation Island Resort General Manager Rodney Samuels said, “Fahdrul's appointment reflected the resort's continued commitment to elevating every aspect of the guest experience. Food plays such an important role in creating lasting holiday memories, and we're delighted to welcome someone of Fahdrul's calibre to Plantation Island Resort.
Originally from Malaysia, Chef Malek has forged an impressive culinary career across some of Asia's leading luxury hotels and resorts, including The Westin Maldives Miriandhoo Resort, Anantara Desaru Coast Resort & Villas, Le Méridien Kota Kinabalu, Hilton Kuala Lumpur, Hilton Hanoi Opera, Mandarin Oriental Kuala Lumpur, The Andaman Langkawi and the iconic Eastern & Oriental Hotel in Penang.
With expertise spanning Asian, Continental and Western cuisines, he is recognised for creating memorable dining experiences while leading large, high-performing kitchen teams. His extensive background includes menu development, large-scale banquet operations, culinary innovation, quality assurance and the seamless management of complex kitchen operations.
Chef Malek said he was excited to join one of Fiji's best-loved family resorts at such an exciting time in its journey.
The appointment comes as Plantation Island Resort continues its staged redevelopment program, which has seen the introduction of new accommodation, retail outlets, a spa, dining concepts and family facilities since 2025, with further enhancements - including additional restaurants, a new pool precinct and expanded guest experiences - scheduled for completion in 2027.
For more information, visit www.plantationisland.com