Desaru Coast, Johor is set to welcome the Mandarin Oriental brand. The luxury Hotel Group has announced its expansion in Malaysia with the forthcoming rebranding of a luxurious beachfront resort in the Southern Corridor.
The property is expected to join the Group’s prestigious portfolio this month, ahead of a full rebranding in January 2026 as Mandarin Oriental, Desaru Coast.
Nestled within 128 acres of lush rainforest and opening onto a pristine stretch of beach overlooking the South China Sea, the resort is set in one of Malaysia’s most unspoilt coastal destinations. Desaru Coast is renowned for its ecological richness, 17 kilometres of beachfront, and year-round tropical climate.
“This marks an important step in our strategic vision to bring Mandarin Oriental’s legendary service and crafted experiences to new and exceptional locations,” explains Laurent Kleitman, Group Chief Executive, Mandarin Oriental. “Desaru Coast’s natural beauty and strong appeal as a resort destination make it a perfect fit for our brand.”
Setting A Benchmark
The resort will not just complement the Group’s existing presence in Kuala Lumpur but also Singapore, reinforcing its strategy to grow in key leisure destinations across Asia. The announcement follows the signing of a hotel management agreement between Mandarin Oriental and Destination Resorts and Hotels Sdn Bhd (DRH), the property’s owner.
The signing ceremony was witnessed by the Chief Minister of Johor, Dato’ Onn Hafiz Ghazi, who stated: “Mandarin Oriental’s decision to establish its second Malaysian property here is a strong endorsement of Johor’s tourism potential, particularly as we prepare for Visit Johor Year 2026.”
According to Karina Ridzuan, (Interim) Group Chief Executive Officer of DRH, the partnership is more than just 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,” she states.
“We are confident this partnership will set a new global benchmark and firmly place Desaru Coast as a destination for luxury travel.”
Luxury Escape
Designed by the late Kerry Hill, the resort stands as the final project in his celebrated architectural legacy, blending tropical modernism with the surrounding landscape. It features 44 spacious suites and villas, all offering views of the sea or rainforest, with many including private gardens and plunge pools.
The resort will boast five diverse dining venues, including a beach club and a coastal lounge bar, alongside The Spa at Mandarin Oriental, which will deliver signature treatments rooted in Asian traditions. Additional wellness and leisure facilities include a yoga pavilion, fitness centre, tennis and padel courts, and a children’s club with both indoor and outdoor play areas.
The resort also provides access to the nearby Els Club Desaru Coast, home to two championship golf courses designed by Ernie Els and Vijay Singh. Looking ahead, the Group plans to introduce 40 branded residences, offering private ownership with access to Mandarin Oriental’s renowned service and amenities.
