One of Malaysia’s most ambitious resort launches in recent years finally welcomed its first residents earlier this year in what is arguably the country’s fastest evolving tourist destination.
The result of a joint venture between Minor International and local firm Themed Attractions Resorts & Hotels Sdn. Bhd (a subsidiary of Khazanah Nasional Bhd,), Anantara Desaru Coast Residences is the first Malaysia-based investment by the Thai hospitality giant and is another major step towards placing Desaru Coast firmly on the radar of both global tourists and affluent homeowners. The JV’s landmark project, which is already generating a considerable buzz in the Johor Bahru region, now looks set to reach a much greater audience with its recent success at the PropertyGuru Asia Property Awards (Malaysia) in September.
The exclusive 20-unit residential project, which is operated as part of the wider 123-key Anantara Desaru Resort & Villas was awarded two of the Awards’ most coveted trophies: Best Luxury Landed Development and Best Housing Development (Malaysia). The three types of pool villas range in size from 3,100 to 6,426 square feet with seamless indoor-outdoor living spaces that feature floor-to-ceiling windows, open dining and lounge areas and sizeable pool decks. Each unit is surrounded by greenery for added privacy and comes with spacious en suite bedrooms, most bosting ocean and lagoon views.
“Minor International and Themed Attractions Resorts & Hotels display expertise extraordinaire creating luxurious beachfront abodes at Anantara Desaru Coast Residences,” the Awards judging panel noted. “The pool villas are designed to create a seamless flow between the cool, classy interior and the lush oasis outdoors, inspiring relaxed symmetry that is enhanced by access to resort facilities.”
The aesthetics draw heavily from traditional Kampong houses, designed to suit the tropical Malaysian climate with slanted carved wooden panels, louvres and vents under the roof, as well as French windows that allow natural airflow throughout the properties. Residents, meanwhile, have access to the resort’s signature Anantara amenities, including a spa and well-appointed fitness centre that offers wellness fanatics and adrenaline junkies a welcome respite to relax or revive. Other attractions in the area include The Els Club Desaru Coast, which features two golf courses, and countless eateries, bars and retail outlets along the coastline.
“Imagine luxurious beachfront villas with private pools and open-plan spaces complemented by high-end resort facilities that enhance coastal living in Johor,” the judges added. “Anantara Desaru Coast Residences by Minor International and Themed Attractions Resorts & Hotels resonates exquisitely with the upscale quality of the renowned Anantara brand.”
It was reported in late 2019 that the joint venture between Minor and Khazanah Nasional Bhd is also exploring opportunities to expand its hospitality footprint in Malaysia to the capital. The planned hotel is likely to be a new build and could potentially see the company introduce its AVANI brand to the heart of Kuala Lumpur.
For more information, email awards@propertyguru.com or visit the official website: AsiaPropertyAwards.com.