INTERVIEW WITH YOHANES HUTAURUK CLUSTER DIRECTOR OF MARKETING AND COMMUNICATIONS – BALI COMO SHAMBHALA ESTATE, COMO UMA CANGGU, COMO UMA UBUD

What do you enjoy most about what you do?
I genuinely enjoy connecting with new people while also strengthening my existing network. Meeting new individuals brings fresh perspectives and insights that are invaluable. Another aspect I’m passionate about is nurturing my team. With new members onboard, I find great fulfilment in guiding them to pursue their passions and helping them develop into future leaders.

With your experience at luxury resorts, what do you find uniquely special about COMO Shambhala Estate, COMO Uma Canggu, and COMO Uma Ubud?
The wellness philosophy truly sets COMO Hotels and Resorts apart. While many luxury resorts offer wellness programs that focus primarily on yoga or Pilates, COMO integrates wellness into every element – from cuisine and activities to spa treatments and beyond. It’s about creating a holistic experience that goes beyond relaxation, encouraging guests to embrace wellness as a lifestyle – because wellness comes from within. This comprehensive approach empowers them to carry the benefits into their everyday lives, making the COMO brand genuinely distinctive in the luxury resort space.

Could you share one of the most memorable achievements in hospitality career at industry?
One of my most rewarding achievements has been being part of pre-opening teams and witnessing their growth and success over time. It’s incredibly fulfilling to contribute from the ground up and see the impact of our hard work as the property flourishes. Additionally, being associated with a company that has earned numerous prestigious accolades, such as those from Condé Nast, Travel + Leisure, and other renowned industry awards, is something I’m proud to cherish throughout my career.

When are some aspects of your work that truly bring a smile to your face?
Seeing a campaign I’ve led gain attention and receive media coverage is incredibly rewarding. It’s a sign that our efforts are paying off and that we’re doing a great job. But it’s not just about my achievement – it’s a collective success. When I share these wins with my team, I see the pride on their faces too. The joy comes from knowing that we’ve achieved something significant together, and those shared smiles make it even more special.

Can you share with us the latest updates at Shambhala Estate, COMO Uma Canggu, and COMO Uma Ubud.
The most exciting update is at COMO Shambhala Estate, where we recently renovated the Wanakasa Residence, adding significant value for our guests. This is just the beginning, as we have plans for ongoing renovations through 2027, so there’s plenty more to look forward to.

Additionally, across all three resorts, we’ve launched a series of #COMOIconic Experiences—unique offerings that can only be enjoyed during a stay with us. These include a Water Purification Ceremony at the sacred waterfall within COMO Shambhala Estate, surfing lessons with our expert instructors at COMO Uma Canggu, and a curated bike retreat through scenic treks at COMO Uma Ubud. Each experience is truly distinctive and embodies the spirit of COMO, setting us apart from other resorts.

From your perspective, how is luxury in hospitality changing, and what unique touches are COMO Resorts bringing to this new vibe?
The definition of luxury in hospitality has evolved significantly. It’s no longer just about physical aspects like elegant lobbies, upscale amenities or gourmet dining. Today, luxury is defined by the quality of experiences – how memorable and exclusive they are, offering something you can’t find anywhere else.

The pandemic has also reshaped guests’ priorities, with a heightened focus on health and well-being as the ultimate luxury. This shift aligns perfectly with what COMO has been championing for over 30 years. We didn’t start prioritizing wellness post-pandemic; we’ve long been pioneers in integrating health, well-being and holistic experiences into the very fabric of our offerings. This deep-rooted commitment truly sets us apart in the evolving landscape of luxury hospitality.

As travel enthusiast, where is your dream destination, and why?
That’s a tough question because I always have a desire to explore somewhere new. After my recent trip to Europe, I’m eager to see even more. Switzerland remains at the top of my bucket list, while Budapest is a place I’ve been longing to visit and Romania has always intrigued me. The architecture in these destinations is stunning and I’m captivated by the charm of their museums and cultural sites. Hopefully, I can check them off my list next year—or maybe the year after. For now, it’s all about saving up to travel more!

How do you balance work with your personal life?
I dedicate my weekdays form 9 to 6 to work, but after hours and weekends are reserved to my personal life. Of course there are times when extra work is nedeed but it’s all about managing it effectively. As the saying goes, “If you love what you do, you’ll never work a day in your life”—it’s just a matter of managing your time properly. I make sure my days off are spent with family, friends, hobbies, and, of course, my dogs. Striking this balance helps me start each Monday with a fresh and energized mindset.