Property events moved away from Brunei-owned hotels amid boycott

Two calendar property events that were set to be held at hotels owned by the Sultan of Brunei were pulled yesterday amid a boycotting campaign over gay rights.

A collection of iconic hotels owned by the Sultan of Brunei have faced a public boycott in protest of Brunei’s strict new Sharia laws that include stoning gay people.

Celebrities such as George Clooney and Elton John have both called for a boycott in recent days.

Yesterday the property industry’s “Movers & Shakers” event, which is this year set to have a panel that includes Berkeley boss Tony Pidgley, has been switched away from the Brunei-owned Dorchester following the public criticism.

The Association of Real Estate Funds told City A.M. that it too is now looking for alternative arrangements for its annual dinner at The Dorchester Hotel, saying that “investors expect everyone – irrespective of their backgrounds, identity or beliefs – to be treated with respect and dignity”.

In a statement The Dorchester Collection said it “emphasises equality, respect and integrity in all areas of our operation”.