Marriott Hotels has opened its latest resort in Malaysia that is located in the tropical sanctuary of Perhentian Island Marine Park in Malaysia.

American luxury hospitality brand Marriott hotels has announced the opening of its first resort in peninsular Malaysia. In a press statement, Marriott says that the Perhentian Marriott Resort & Spa on the island of Perhentian Kecil in Terengganu is situated within the Perhentian Island Marine Park. 

The statement adds that the resort comes with the charm of a serene tropical sanctuary and unparalleled natural surroundings of marine biodiversity, pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters and Malaysian heritage and cultural experiences. Access to the resort is available by ferry from Kuala Besut Jetty, about an hour’s drive from the city of Kota Bharu, it adds.

“We are excited to open the first Marriott Hotel in stunning Terengganu on the East Coast of Malaysia. Perhentian Marriott Resort & Spa is an important milestone in our journey of expansion, not only is it the first Marriott Hotel in the beautiful Perhentian islands, but also our first in Terengganu and the East Coast of Malaysia,” says Ramesh Jackson, Area Vice President, Malaysia and Indonesia, Marriott International.

“We are raising the bar in this part of Malaysia with heartfelt service reflecting the Marriott Hotels’ legacy of wonderful hospitality and sharing elevated experiences with the aim to make Perhentian and Terengganu a must-see destination for domestic and international travelers alike,” he adds.

The statement adds that the Perhentian Marriott Resort & Spa offers 200 deluxe rooms and 17 villas with spectacular sea vistas. Guestrooms follow the natural contour of the topography to minimise land disturbance and carefully positioned and angled to ensure unobstructed views and privacy.  

The resort includes a 24-hour fully equipped fitness center and yoga deck along with three outdoor pools and a jacuzzi filled with dechlorinated water. Qi Forest Spa & Wellness features an array of spa treatments, including the traditional Malay massage. Club Penyu, a fun kids and teens club for guests 3-17 offers educational activities reflective of local culture, products and marine life.

The resort also comes with a wide range of activities, including exploration of nature and the marine park. Exploring the beauty of Terengganu’s underwater begins at the Dive Center with a dedicated dive pool, dive boat and Nitrox for dives. Excursions to coral outcrops and reefs uncover stunning underwater features teeming with life including reef fish, mollusks, barracudas, kingfish, black tip and nurse sharks. July and August bring dolphin and pilot whale spotting.

All-day dining restaurant Dapur serves local and international favorites using locally sourced ingredients. The signature bubbly breakfast concept combines a buffet and a chef-selected a la carte menu. Specialty restaurant Sekoci offers a poolside lunch alfresco experience with international cuisine.

“We are very excited to welcome guests to Perhentian Kecil, an island within Terengganu’s Marine Park, as rich in natural beauty as it is in local culture and tradition, offering visitors a unique glimpse of Malaysia. Our commitment to delivering exceptional service, combined with contemporary locally inspired design, ensures that every guest experiences the true essence of wonderful hospitality,” says Anne Busfield, General Manager, Perhentian Marriott Resort & Spa.