Malaysia Welcomes Mandarin Oriental’s Grand Expansion with the Rebranding of Desaru Coast Resort into a Tropical Paradise for Luxury Seekers

Malaysia is poised to welcome an exciting new chapter in luxury travel as Mandarin Oriental rebrands the Desaru Coast Resort into a tropical haven for luxury seekers. This grand expansion, nestled along the unspoiled southeastern coastline, offers a blend of world-class amenities, opulent suites, exquisite dining, and unparalleled service, all designed to cater to the most discerning travelers. With breathtaking views of the South China Sea and an idyllic, serene atmosphere, the rebranding of Desaru Coast into a Mandarin Oriental resort sets the stage for a new era of opulence and exclusivity in Malaysia’s hospitality scene.

Mandarin Oriental, one of the world’s most esteemed luxury hospitality brands, is thrilled to announce its expansion into Malaysia with the upcoming rebranding of a remarkable resort and private residences on the serene southeastern coast of Desaru Coast, Johor. This exciting development represents a significant milestone for the brand, adding a tropical haven to its portfolio of exclusive properties. The resort, nestled amidst 128 acres of lush rainforest and offering panoramic views of a pristine beach along the South China Sea, is set to join Mandarin Oriental’s global family in the coming months. A full rebranding to Mandarin Oriental, Desaru Coast is anticipated in January 2026, marking a new chapter for the property in a region known for its natural beauty and cultural richness.

A Tranquil Coastal Retreat

Desaru Coast is famous for its pristine shoreline, pleasant climate throughout the year, and peaceful, scenic environment. The region boasts nearly 17 kilometers of uninterrupted beachfront, making it a highly sought-after destination for those seeking a peaceful getaway. The Mandarin Oriental, Desaru Coast, is poised to offer an exceptional blend of seclusion and accessibility, benefiting from its close proximity to other Mandarin Oriental hotels in Kuala Lumpur and Singapore. This strategic location underlines the brand’s ongoing commitment to expanding its presence in some of the most coveted resort destinations across Asia and the world.

The property’s design, crafted by the late Kerry Hill and his renowned architectural firm, Kerry Hill Architects, stands as a testament to Hill’s legacy in tropical modernism. The resort is the final project completed by the celebrated architect before his passing, and it beautifully integrates the natural landscape with contemporary design. Hill’s design philosophy focused on seamlessly blending constructed spaces with their natural surroundings, a principle that is expertly reflected in the architecture of Mandarin Oriental, Desaru Coast. The resort is a perfect blend of luxurious living spaces and immersive natural beauty, providing guests with an experience that feels both exclusive and deeply connected to the environment.

“Mandarin Oriental, Desaru Coast represents a significant step in our strategic vision to bring the Group’s legendary service and crafted experiences, that resonate deeply with today’s luxury traveller, to new and exceptional locations,” said Laurent Kleitman, Group Chief Executive of Mandarin Oriental.

Mandarin Oriental and Desaru Coast cemented the partnership with a hotel management agreement signed on location at the resort. The Chief Minister of Johor, Dato’ Onn Hafiz Ghazi, who witnessed the signing ceremony, said, “Mandarin Oriental has created and defined some of the world’s most renowned properties and destinations across the world, and this,being their choice for their second property in Malaysia, is a testament to Johor’s immense potential.. There is no better brand to lead the reintroduction of this iconic beachfront resort property as we prepare for Visit Johor Year 2026.”  

Luxurious Accommodations and Dining

Mandarin Oriental, Desaru Coast, boasts 44 expansive suites and villas, each thoughtfully designed with a focus on luxury and comfort. The accommodations are generously sized, offering guests ample privacy and breathtaking views of either the pristine beach or the surrounding rainforest. Many of the villas come with private gardens and plunge pools, providing an intimate, luxurious retreat. The resort’s accommodations are designed not only for comfort but also to offer an unparalleled sense of serenity, allowing guests to unwind in style while enjoying the unspoiled beauty of Desaru Coast.

The resort offers an array of culinary experiences across five distinct dining venues, each curated to showcase a fusion of global cuisines and local Malaysian flavors. Among the offerings is a chic beach club that invites guests to enjoy casual dining by the sea, as well as a relaxed lounge bar that offers magnificent coastal views. Each dining space at Mandarin Oriental, Desaru Coast, is designed to provide an inviting atmosphere for guests to enjoy exceptional meals while soaking in the beauty of the landscape. Whether it’s an intimate dinner for two or a lively group gathering, the dining options are perfect for every occasion.

A Holistic Wellness Experience

The resort’s spa, a sanctuary of relaxation and rejuvenation, will feature the renowned treatments and authentic rituals that have become synonymous with the Mandarin Oriental brand. With a strong emphasis on holistic wellness, the spa will provide a range of services designed to promote health and well-being. The wellness offerings are complemented by a yoga pavilion, a fully equipped fitness center, and a beauty salon, ensuring that guests have everything they need to maintain their wellness routine while away from home.

For those who enjoy physical activities, the resort will offer a variety of sports facilities, including tennis and padel courts. Families with young children will appreciate the thoughtfully designed Kids’ Club, which offers both indoor and outdoor play areas, as well as a nature pond for interactive learning experiences. The resort’s commitment to family-friendly offerings ensures that younger guests have just as enriching an experience as their adult counterparts.

Event Spaces and Exclusive Gatherings

Mandarin Oriental, Desaru Coast, also caters to those seeking the perfect venue for private events, weddings, and other celebrations. The resort’s elegant event spaces, designed to blend indoor comfort with the beauty of the outdoors, provide a stunning backdrop for memorable gatherings. Panoramic views of the rainforest and coastline serve as a captivating setting for weddings, while private rooms can be tailored to host corporate events, conferences, and exclusive retreats. The resort’s attention to detail ensures that each event is curated to perfection, providing an unforgettable experience for all attendees.

Golfing and Leisure at Els Club Desaru Coast

Golf lovers will appreciate the resort’s proximity to the Els Club Desaru Coast, featuring two championship courses crafted by golfing icons Ernie Els and Vijay Singh. The Ocean Course, featuring 27 holes, and the Valley Course with 18 holes provide exceptional golfing experiences set against the breathtaking backdrop of Desaru Coast’s natural beauty. Whether you are a seasoned golfer or a beginner, the courses provide a challenging yet enjoyable experience in a breathtaking setting.

The Future: Branded Residences and Luxury Living

Malaysia ushers in a new chapter of luxury with Mandarin Oriental’s grand expansion, transforming Desaru Coast Resort into an exclusive tropical paradise for luxury seekers, complete with world-class amenities and exceptional experiences.

In line with Mandarin Oriental’s long-term development strategy, the property plans to introduce an additional 40 branded residences in the future. These exclusive residences will offer owners the opportunity to enjoy the brand’s legendary service within a private, residential context. The addition of these luxury homes will further enhance the resort’s appeal, making it a year-round destination for those seeking the ultimate in luxury living.

Dato’ Mohamed Nasri Sallehuddin, Chairman of Destination Resorts and Hotels Sdn Bhd (DRH), owner of the property, commented, “A name synonymous with timeless elegance, impeccable service, and deep Asian heritage, Mandarin Oriental is the perfect partner for Desaru Coast. We welcome Mandarin Oriental and look forward to embarking on our destination’s next phase of growth together.”

Karina Ridzuan, (Interim) Group Chief Executive Officer of DRH, said, “This is more than a business alignment; it is a bold cultural handshake between two brands — one an established global icon, the other an emerging destination on the rise — both centred on delivering exceptional guest experiences. We are confident this partnership will set a new global benchmark and firmly place Desaru Coast as a destination for luxury travel.” 

The upcoming Mandarin Oriental, Desaru Coast, promises to be a landmark addition to the brand’s portfolio, offering guests a blend of exceptional design, world-class amenities, and the unmatched service that Mandarin Oriental is known for. With its stunning location, luxurious accommodations, and holistic wellness offerings, this new resort will undoubtedly become one of the most coveted destinations in Asia. As the resort prepares to open its doors, it signals a new era of luxury hospitality in Malaysia, bringing the Mandarin Oriental brand to a whole new level of elegance and excellence.

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