Mandarin Oriental is the latest brand to plant its flag in Desaru Coast
Frequent travellers to Desaru Coast will be well acquainted with the range of luxury hotel brands that have established a presence there in recent years. Now, well-heeled visitors can add Mandarin Oriental to the list. The group is taking over operations of an existing beachfront resort, with a full rebranding as Mandarin Oriental, Desaru Coast planned for January 2026.
The resort occupies 128 acres of rainforest and beachfront on Johor’s southeastern coast, with direct views of the South China Sea. Originally developed and opened under the One&Only brand in 2020, the property is architecturally significant as the final completed project by the late Kerry Hill. The design follows Hill’s established approach to tropical modernism—spatially generous, understated, and closely tied to the surrounding landscape.
Accommodation consists of 44 suites and villas, all with views of either the rainforest or the sea. Many units include private gardens and plunge pools. Mandarin Oriental is not redeveloping the property but reorienting its operations, guest experience, and service standards to align with its own brand.
The resort will feature five dining venues. These include a beach club, a casual lounge with coastal views, and restaurants that integrate international cuisine with Malaysian ingredients. While specific culinary concepts may evolve, the group has indicated an intent to retain the property’s variety and focus on local flavours.
The spa will become The Spa at Mandarin Oriental, offering treatments and rituals informed by the brand’s broader wellness programme. A yoga pavilion, fitness centre, beauty salon, and sporting facilities—including tennis and padel courts—are already in place. A dedicated Kids’ Club with indoor and outdoor areas will continue to serve families, along with a nature pond designed around exploratory play.
In the longer term, Mandarin Oriental plans to introduce 40 branded residences, allowing owners to access the hotel’s services while residing on a lush property.
“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,” says Karina Ridzuan, (interim) group chief executive officer of Destination Resorts and Hotels Sdn Bhd, owner of the property. “We are confident this partnership will set a new global benchmark and firmly place Desaru Coast as a destination for luxury travel.”
