Johor Bahru – 3 December 2025 – Marriott International, Inc. today announced the signing of an agreement with YTL Hotels to bring JW Marriott to Johor Bahru. Following a strategic conversion of the former Thistle Johor Bahru, the JW Marriott Hotel Johor Bahru is expected to open by December 2026.

This landmark signing signals the beginning of an exciting new chapter for the city, underscoring both companies’ shared commitment to growth, innovation, and delivering exceptional hospitality experiences across Malaysia.

“Marriott is pleased to deepen our relationship with YTL Hotels through the signing of JW Marriott Hotel Johor Bahru,” said Rajeev Menon, President – Asia Pacific excluding China, Marriott International.

“This signing represents a strategic expansion of the brand in Malaysia, reinforcing our commitment to bringing transformative luxury experiences to destinations of growing business and leisure demand. Johor Bahru’s strong connectivity and rising profile as a cross-border hub makes it a natural fit for JW Marriott’s thoughtful and inspired brand positioning”.

Dato’ Mark Yeoh Seok Kah, Executive Director, YTL Hotels – “YTL Hotels is delighted to continue our long-standing collaboration with Marriott International with the signing of JW Marriott Hotel Johor Bahru.

“This project reflects our shared vision of creating enduring value through world-class hospitality experiences and underscores Johor Bahru’s emergence as a dynamic destination for discerning travelers. We look forward to transforming this hotel into a sanctuary of modern luxury that embodies the essence of JW Marriott”.

Currently undergoing a transformative renovation, JW Marriott Hotel Johor Bahru is set to usher in a new era of sophisticated luxury in the heart of the city.

Spanning 1.9 hectares and expected to feature 410 keys, the hotel is slated to embody the brand’s signature focus on holistic well-being, intuitive service, and timeless design to deliver a comprehensive urban resort experience catering to both leisure and business travelers.

Each guest room anticipates to feature contemporary interiors, elevated amenities, and panoramic views. As part of the enhancements, plans also include for the hotel to feature an Executive Lounge, offering a refined retreat for travelers seeking exclusivity, personalized service, and curated culinary offerings.

Guests can also look forward to an impressive array of facilities, including one tennis court, three pickleball courts, an outdoor resort- style swimming pool, a state-of-the-art fitness center, and a signature Spa featuring five treatment rooms and hydrothermal amenities.

Crafted to host a wide spectrum of distinguished gatherings, social and event space at the hotel is slated to boast 2,517 square meters, including a 900-square-meter grand ballroom, a 600-square-meter junior ballroom, and 16 versatile meeting rooms.

Plans for other facilities enhancing guest experience includes a dedicated Kids’ Club, and a curated selection of dining venues, including an all-day dining restaurant, bakery and retail coffee kiosk, Chinese Restaurant, a Smokehouse and a Lobby Lounge.

Offering guests a moment of calm amidst the city’s vibrant energy, the hotel also anticipates to introduce the brand’s signature JW Garden, a tranquil green space that reflects the brand’s commitment to mindful living and sustainability.

Strategically positioned at the crossroads of Jalan Sungai Chat and Jalan Lingkaran Dalam, JW Marriott Hotel Johor Bahru is set to offer seamless access to the city’s key commercial, leisure, and transport hubs.

Just minutes from the upcoming Bukit Chagar Singapore – Johor Bahru Rapid Transit System (RTS) Station, the CIQ checkpoint, and Senai International Airport, its prime location places guests within easy reach of Johor Bahru’s vibrant attractions.

From the bustling café culture of Jalan Wong Ah Fook to the retail haven of Mid Valley Southkey and the family-favorite LEGOLAND® Malaysia, all within a 10 to 20-minute drive.

As Johor Bahru continues to evolve into a dynamic gateway between Malaysia and Singapore, the hotel is poised to play a pivotal role in shaping the city’s hospitality future.

The upcoming JW Marriott Hotel Johor Bahru will mark the second JW Marriott property in Malaysia, joining the iconic JW Marriott Hotel Kuala Lumpur.

This addition will further enrich Marriott’s distinguished luxury portfolio in the country, which already includes The St. Regis, The Ritz-Carlton and W Hotels.

The project reflects the company’s ongoing confidence in Malaysia’s tourism growth trajectory and aligns with its strategy to expand its luxury footprint across the Asia Pacific region. As anticipation builds, the new hotel is set to elevate Johor Bahru’s standing as a premier destination for discerning global travelers.