Mandarin Oriental has expanded its footprint in Malaysia, making its debut on the country’s southeastern coast of Desaru Coast, Johor.
Nestled among more than 11 hectares of rainforest on a beachfront overlooking the South China Sea, the property joins the Mandarin Oriental portfolio this month, ahead of a full rebranding in January 2026 as Mandarin Oriental, Desaru Coast.
The 44-room resort will have five dining destinations, including a beach club and a lounge bar.
A full spa will offer a “holistic wellness sanctuary, delivering the group’s renowned treatments and authentic rituals rooted in the Orient”.
There’s also a yoga pavilion, fitness centre, beauty salon, tennis and padel courts. And for golf enthusiasts, the resort provides access to the nearby Els Club Desaru Coast, home to two championship courses.
Mandarin Oriental Chief Executive Laurent Kleitman says, “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”.
Chief Minister of Johor, Dato’ Onn Hafiz Ghazi says Mandarin Oriental’s decision to choose Johor 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.”
Owners of the property, DRH Group Chief Executive Officer Karina Ridzuan says, “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 hotel group recently announced its Hong Kong and Bangkok properties would undergo ‘unprecedented’ multimillion-dollar renovations and add Michelin-starred chefs to both properties.
Kleitman says, “We are a global leader in luxury hospitality, and as such, we elevate our brand and invest in our legacy hotels to ensure we continue to be sought after and loved by future generations”.
For more information, visit Mandarin Oriental.
