Mandarin Oriental announces Malaysia Desaru Coast expansion

Mandarin Oriental has announced its expansion in Malaysia with the upcoming rebranding of a resort and private residences on the country’s south-eastern coast of Desaru Coast, Johor.

Nestled amidst 128 acres of rainforest and opening onto a stretch of beach overlooking the South China Sea, the property will join the Mandarin Oriental portfolio this June, ahead of a full rebranding in January 2026 as Mandarin Oriental, Desaru Coast.

The resort is designed by the late Kerry Hill and his award-winning firm, Kerry Hill Architects, and stands as the final completed project in the architect’s portfolio, embedding tropical modernism in his design which creates a harmony between the built space and surrounding landscape.

The property features 44 suites and villas, all with direct views of the sea or rainforest, and many with private gardens and plunge pools. Guests have a choice of five dining destinations including a beach club and a relaxed lounge bar with coastal views. Additionally, the resort’s event spaces blend indoor comfort with the outdoors, enhanced by panoramic views of the rainforest and coastline.

The Spa at Mandarin Oriental will offer a holistic wellness sanctuary, including a yoga pavilion, fitness centre, beauty salon and a range of sporting facilities including tennis and padel courts, and guests will have access to the nearby Els Club Desaru Coast, home to two championship courses designed by golfing legends Ernie Els and Vijay Singh: the 27-hole Ocean Course and the 18-hole Valley Course.

As well as nearly 17 kilometres of beachfront, the property will benefit from its close proximity to Mandarin Oriental’s well-established hotels in Kuala Lumpur and Singapore, reflecting the Group’s ambition to expand its presence in resort destinations across the region.

“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,” says 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, adds: “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.”

In line with Mandarin Oriental’s long-term development strategy, future plans include for an additional 40 branded residences, providing owners an opportunity to enjoy Mandarin Oriental’s service within a private, residential context, enhancing the property’s appeal as a year-round destination for luxury living.

“A name synonymous with timeless elegance, impeccable service, and deep Asian heritage, Mandarin Oriental is the perfect partner for Desaru Coast,” says Dato’ Mohamed Nasri Sallehuddin, Chairman of Destination Resorts and Hotels Sdn Bhd (DRH), owner of the property. “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, also comments: “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.”