SARAWAK, MALAYSIA—Marriott International, Inc. has opened its first rainforest resort in Asia Pacific here in Mulu. The debut of the 101-room Mulu Marriott Resort & Spa marks the second property under the flagship of Marriott Hotels brand on the Island of Borneo and the eighth for Marriott International in Malaysia.
The area, one of Malaysia’s four UNESCO World Heritage sites, is known for its untouched rainforests and natural cave formations.
“Mulu is such a unique destination and has a great potential for hospitality growth, making it a second-to-none choice for the Marriott Hotels brand. The Mulu Marriott Resort & Spa will set new standards in offering guests a rejuvenating resort experience—a respite from hustling and bustling life,” said Robert Stark, market VP—Australia, Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore for Marriott International.
The former 20-year-old Royal Mulu Resort was transformed with a look inspired by the alignment of ethnic long houses. Groups of rooms are connected by wooden walkways that allow guests to feel as much a part of this rainforest as the native Belian people, while incorporating the natural splendor along the banks of the Melinau River, according to the company.
As part of the redesign, the brand’s signature Greatroom and the resorts River Bar are an open and flexible space with sofa chairs and tables of different sizes, arranged by height and design. For accommodations, rooms and suites feature private balconies, showcasing the Melinau River and the greenery of the rainforest. All bathrooms are accessorized with Thann amenities.
The newly enhanced resort offers approximately 10,000 sq. ft. of functional event and meeting space including a ballroom that can accommodate up to 200 people, a business center boardroom, a multi-functional room and a riverfront garden. A range of wellness options are available, including an outdoor 49-ft. lap swimming pool, a gym overlooking the rainforest, the Mandara Spa and an activities center. For dining, the M-Cafe offers local and international dining with alfresco options on a terrace by the swimming pool and the River Bar overlooks the Melinau River Lounge.