The hospitality landscape across Southeast Asia is set for a significant boost, with two major new developments announced in Indonesia and Malaysia. These projects reflect growing investor confidence in the region’s tourism potential and the ongoing integration of hospitality, infrastructure, and community-focused initiatives.
PARADISAL OUTPOST
Club Med has confirmed plans for a new premium resort in Manado, North Sulawesi — marking its third location in Indonesia and further solidifying the brand’s presence in the archipelago.
Developed in partnership with leading Indonesian firm PT Grahatama Kreasibaru (GKB), the resort is scheduled to open in 2028.
Located just over an hour from Sam Ratulangi International Airport, Club Med Manado will offer panoramic views of the Molucca Sea and Mount Klabat from each of its 250 rooms. The property will deliver Club Med’s signature all-inclusive experience, with a strong emphasis on sustainable tourism, cultural immersion, and marine exploration.
The development aligns with Club Med’s broader Southeast Asian growth strategy, joining its established resorts in Bali (1984) and Bintan (1997). The company has also renewed the land lease for its Bali property and announced renovation plans for Bintan.
The Manado resort will include family-friendly features such as the Kids Club, the Amazing! Family programme, and an Exclusive Collection space for elevated service. Club Med aims to achieve BREEAM ‘Very Good’ certification for all new resorts, with the project expected to create over 1,000 jobs and benefit the local community through training and economic development.
SOUTHERN CORRIDOR BOOST
On local shores, The Ascott Limited has partnered with Coronade Properties Sdn Bhd to launch a new five-star hotel within Johor Bahru’s Coronation Square.
Ascott Coronation Square Johor Bahru will be directly linked to the Rapid Transit System (RTS) at Bukit Chagar, offering seamless travel between Malaysia and Singapore.
Set to open in the second half of 2029, the 207-room property will feature a full suite of premium facilities and introduce Ascott’s namesake brand to the city. The project is the first major hospitality development following the establishment of the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone (JS-SEZ), marking a milestone in cross-border collaboration.
The hotel will anchor Tower 1 of the RM5 billion Coronation Square development, which includes residential, commercial, and retail components. Ascott’s strategic expansion taps into Johor’s growth trajectory, driven by increased investment, improved connectivity, and rising demand for lifestyle-driven hospitality.
