Experience Playing Inside a Video Game at This Newest Virtual Arena in KL

If you’ve ever dreamed of living in the heart of Kuala Lumpur with all the comforts of home and the perks of a luxury hotel, Marriott’s new project just made that dream a little more real. 

Marriott International has officially opened its newest and largest Marriott Executive Apartments property in Asia Pacific, excluding China, right in the vibrant core of Malaysia’s capital. With 353 serviced apartments ranging from sleek studios to spacious three-bedroom suites, the new location is designed for both short-term visitors and long-stay guests seeking upscale living with personalized service. 

“We are excited to bring Marriott Executive Apartments to Kuala Lumpur… offering a new standard in apartment-style living, for both short and long-term stays,” said Ramesh Jackson, Regional VP for Malaysia & Indonesia at Marriott International. “This property is designed to provide our guests with the best of both worlds – the comfort and privacy of well-appointed accommodations and the warm hospitality and personalized service.” 

Set steps away from KLCC Park and within walking distance of the iconic Petronas Twin Towers and Suria KLCC, the property is a prime launchpad for both business and leisure travelers. With direct access to major transit lines and expressways, guests can easily explore the city’s bustling nightlife, shopping districts, and cultural landmarks. 

Each apartment features a residential-style kitchen, living and dining areas, and in-unit laundry facilities. Guests can choose from a variety of layouts and views, including KLCC Park and city skyline vistas. 

From the modern Malaysian flavors at Bistro Kia Peng to a rooftop event space with panoramic views, the property blends comfort with community. A 24/7 fitness center, lap pool, kids’ splash zone, and concierge services round out the experience. 

Visit Marriott’s website to make your reservations and learn more about the Marriott Executive Apartments Kuala Lumpur. 

In the heart of Petaling Jaya, one of Klang Valley’s most recognizable hospitality fixtures is entering an exciting new chapter. 

Eastin Hotel Kuala Lumpur, a staple in the local hotel scene since 1998, is set to be reimagined and rebranded as the Petaling Jaya Marriott Hotel by December 2025.

Currently boasting 388 rooms, the five-star property will remain open and committed to providing a comfortable experience to guests throughout the transformation, which officially began renovations on June 10, 2025.

As one of the latest additions to Marriott’s expanding Malaysian portfolio, the revamped Petaling Jaya Marriott Hotel aims to bring a renewed sense of luxury, alongside the signature service that Marriott Hotels are known for, straight to the city’s doorstep.

The move comes as part of a strategic collaboration between TSM Global and Marriott International, aligning the hotel with the elevated standards of the Marriott Hotels brand. 

The refresh will include a complete overhaul of key areas, from the main lobby to select guest rooms, alongside the addition of premium amenities like the M Club Lounge for Elite and Club members, a Chinese restaurant, and a Kids Club designed to welcome families.

Marriott, which already operates more than 60 properties across Malaysia under 20 different brands, continues to strengthen its presence in key destinations throughout the country.

“The conversion of Eastin Kuala Lumpur into Petaling Jaya Marriott Hotel reflects our commitment to growing the Marriott Hotels brand in key urban centers across Malaysia,” said George Varughese, Market Vice President for Malaysia at Marriott International. “Working closely with TSM Global, we look forward to reintroducing this landmark property with refreshed offerings that align with the brand’s modern design ethos and elevated guest experience.”

The rebranding is set to enhance the hotel's visibility and ease of access, thanks to its prime location along the SPRINT Highway and a short walk from the Phileo Damansara MRT station. Just 15 minutes from KL Sentral, the hotel also connects directly to the North–South Expressway, making it an ideal stopover for travelers en route to or from Johor, Melaka, Perak, Penang, and KLIA.

For more information, visit Eastin Hotel Kuala Lumpur on their website, Instagram, and Facebook.

Location: 13 Jalan 16/11 46350 Petaling Jaya Selangor 

Birkin International Hotel, a landmark in sustainable luxury, officially opened on July 9, 2025, in Melaka — marking a new milestone for eco-luxury travel, and elevating Malaysia’s position as a premium destination for eco-conscious, high-value travelers. 

Nestled along the pristine coastline of Klebang Beach, the resort-style property redefines sustainable sophistication with 526 elegant all-suite rooms offering sweeping views of the Straits of Malacca. Timeless heritage meets contemporary comfort in this serene retreat, created for the modern and mindful traveler. 

Birkin International Hotel’s highlights for memorable and calm stays include: 

• Gastronomic Journeys: six signature F&B venues including the vibrant Birkin Kitchen, garden-inspired Mirage Garden Bar, panoramic Blu Bar, elegant Nalu fine dining, and laidback Sunset Grill
• Wellness & Recreation: Guests can unwind at the sea-facing infinity pool, Tranquility Spa, or energize at the hotel’s US$500,000 fitness center
• Business Meets Leisure: The hotel is equipped with modern MICE facilities, including a 600-pax Grand Ballroom, executive boardrooms, versatile meeting rooms, and dedicated business lounges
• Family-Focused Experiences: Families are well-catered for with the Birkin Kids Club, a children’s driving track, outdoor play areas, and a whimsical Traveller’s Gift Shop
• Sustainability Built-in: Eco-conscious features include rainwater harvesting, EV charging stations, an RO water bottling system, and support for a hotel-run food bank — all framed by US$1 million in landscaped greenery

Located 12 kilometers away from the Melaka International Airport, and just minutes away from Melaka’s UNESCO heritage treasures like Jonker Street, A Famosa, and Stadthuys, Birkin International Hotel offers seamless access to culture and history while delivering five-star comfort in a mindful way. 

To book your stay, visit the Birkin International Hotel’s website, contact +606-228 8858, or email [email protected].

Follow Birkin International Hotel on Facebook, X (Formerly Twitter), and Instagram. 

Business meets leisure at Hyatt Hotels Corporation’s newest five-star property in Kuala Lumpur, the Hyatt Regency Kuala Lumpur at KL Midtown. 

Nestled in the emerging KL Midtown and strategically located close to the Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre (MITEC), the Tun Razak Exchange (TRX), and more, the Hyatt Regency Kuala Lumpur is poised to cement the area as Malaysia’s emerging convention and lifestyle hub. 

The hotel’s reopening marks the return of the Hyatt Regency brand in Kuala Lumpur and is the group’s seventh hotel in the city. 

Hyatt Regency Kuala Lumpur at KL Midtown

Opening its doors on Aug. 26, 2025, the five-star hotel will debut a dual concept of hotel rooms and serviced residences, offering 306 thoughtfully designed guest rooms and suites, and 104 serviced apartments designed by renowned Japanese architect Kengo Kuma. 

The rooms blend spacious layouts with natural elements, creating a serene, elevated stay balancing modern luxury with deep respect for the environment. 

Designed for both short visits and extended stays, the hotel’s serviced residences offer a seamless blend of comfort and convenience. Guests can enjoy exclusive access to a private lobby and dedicated drop-off area, along with one- and two-bedroom apartments. Each unit is equipped with a kitchenette, a full-sized refrigerator, and separate dining and living spaces — ideal for families, corporate travelers, and long-term stays. 

The rooms at the Hyatt Regency Kuala Lumpur are more spacious than most standard rooms in the city, starting from 42 square meters. The hotel offers 15 room types and 22 suites, including Regency Suites, Diplomatic Suites, and the exclusive Presidential Suite. 

Amenities at the Hyatt Regency Kuala Lumpur

The hotel is home to five distinct dining concepts, each offering a unique culinary experience. Midtown Brasserie offers regional favorites and signature desserts, while China House delivers authentic Chinese flavors with a modern touch. 

At Enso Izakaya and Bar, Japanese cuisine meets craft cocktails in a trendy, stylish setting. For laidback sophistication, Midtown Lounge offers Afternoon Tea and all-day bites, and Breeze Pool Bar sets the mood for an elevated poolside dining. 

Guests can unwind and enjoy the breeze at the infinity pool, while those in the serviced apartments can enjoy exclusive access to a private pool on the 32nd floor. The hotel also features a fully-equipped gym, with personal trainers available upon request for a more tailored wellness experience. 

Bookings and reservations are now available at the Hyatt Regency Kuala Lumpur at KL Midtown website or call them at +60333101234. Follow Hyatt Regency Kuala Lumpur at KL Midtown on Facebook and Instagram. 

Location: Hyatt Regency Kuala Lumpur at KL Midtown, No. 7 Jalan Dutamas 2, 50450 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Frequent Business Class travelers with Malaysia Airlines will be enjoying an elevated experience with this campaign. 

Malaysia’s flag carrier, Malaysia Airlines, has launched its latest global campaign, “Time for Premium Escapades,” inviting travelers to rediscover the joy of flying and elevate their journey with exclusive Business Class fares. 

The campaign runs from June 6 to 19, 2025, for a travel period from June 6, 2025 to May 31, 2026, offering access to a wide range of destinations across Asia, Australia, Europe, and beyond. Travelers departing from Taiwan can enjoy all-in-return fares starting from TWD$18,979 in Business Class for international destinations. 

Travelers flying Business Class can expect a seamless experience from the moment they arrive at the airport, including fast-track services, access to Malaysia Airlines’ Golden Lounge, and even private transfers at Kuala Lumpur International Airport Terminal 1 (KLIA T1) in partnership with Mercedes-Benz. 

Comfort meets sophistication and elegance as guests can unwind in lie-flat seats, personalized service, and complimentary Wi-Fi, available onboard select aircraft for all guests regardless of cabin class or loyalty tier, ensuring guests stay effortlessly connected throughout their flight. 

The journey is further enhanced with a range of thoughtful enhancements designed to delight every type of traveler. Passengers can enjoy the airline’s Best of Asia menu — a regional culinary showcase which has been refreshed with new chef-curated dishes inspired by Malaysia Airlines’ destination network. Guests can also pre-select their preferred meals via Chef-on-Call for added personalization. 

For more comfort on longer journeys, Business Class passengers can also receive premium touches such as pajamas, while families are welcomed with child-friendly meals and activity packs for a more inclusive in-flight experience on selected flights. 

The campaign also features affordable and rewarding journeys in Economy Class, with great value across the network where travelers can enjoy all-in return fares starting from TWD$8,840 or international destinations. Economy Class travelers can expect the same warm service and thoughtful touches across regional and long-haul routes. 

All fares are available for booking via Malaysia Airlines’ website, the MHmobile app, and authorized travel agents worldwide. 

For more information, follow Malaysia Airlines on Facebook, X (Formerly Twitter), and Instagram. 

The Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group will be expanding its portfolio in Malaysia with the debut of the Mandarin Oriental, Desaru Coast, a beachfront retreat in Desaru Coast, Johor. 

This expansion comes with the upcoming rebranding of an exceptional resort and private residences located in Desaru Coast, Johor, the southeastern coast of Malaysia. Nestled within the 128 acres of verdant rainforest and opening onto a pristine stretch of beach overlooking the South China Sea, the property joins the Mandarin Oriental portfolio this June 2025. 

The property, known as the One&Only, was designed by the late Kerry Hill and his firm Kerry Hill Architects, and is the final completed project in his distinguished portfolio. The resort embeds tropical modernism in its design, creating a sense of harmony between the space and its surrounding landscape. 

The hotel is set to become a refined escape for everyone seeking nature and indulgence in their stay. 

The Desaru Coast is renowned for its unspoiled coastline, warm year-round climate, and tranquil natural beauty. With nearly 17 kilometers of beachfront, the destination offers an irresistible blend of coastal serenity and ecological richness. 

The property will benefit from its closeness to the Mandarin Oriental’s well-established hotels in Kuala Lumpur and Singapore, reflecting the Group’s continued emphasis on expanding its presence in resort destinations across the regions. 

“Mandarin Oriental, Desaru Coast represents a significant step in our strategic vision to bring the Group’s legendary service and crafted experiences that resonate deeply with today’s luxury traveler, to new and exceptional locations,” said Laurent Kleitman, Group Chief Executive of Mandarin Oriental.

The resort features 44 suites and villas, each with ample space and privacy, exceptional views of the sea and rainforest, and many with private gardens and plunge pools. Guests can choose from five distinct dining options that blend global cuisines with local culinary flavors, including a stylish beach club and a relaxed lounge bar with coastal views. 

The Spa at Mandarin Oriental will offer a holistic wellness sanctuary, conveying the Group’s renowned treatments and authentic rituals rooted in the Orient. Other wellness offerings include tennis and padel courts, a Kids’ Club with indoor facilities, a large outdoor playground, a nature pond, and more for younger guests’ enrichment. 

Elegant event spaces and immersive natural surroundings are set to become appealing venues for weddings and private gatherings, blending indoor comfort with panoramic views of the rainforest and coastline. 

The resort will also offer access to the nearby The Els Club Desaru Coast, home to the two golfing championship courses designed by legends Ernie Els and Vijay Singh.

Future plans for the resort include 40 branded residences, offering the Mandarin Oriental’s legendary service within a private, residential context. 

Whether for business or pleasure, the Mandarin Oriental, Desaru Coast will be offering a harmonious blend of heritage and modernity for every kind of traveler. 

For more information, visit the Desaru Coast website here, and follow Desaru Coast Malaysia on Facebook and Instagram. 

Heads up, Kuala Lumpur! 

IHG Hotels & Resorts will be debuting its luxury lifestyle brand Kimpton in Malaysia with the opening of Kimpton Naluria Kuala Lumpur by the end of 2025. 

Located within Kuala Lumpur’s Central Business District, the Tun Razak Exchange (TRX), the 26-storey Kimpton Naluria Kuala Lumpur will be an artful take on modern luxury in the city, becoming its next thriving social hub, blending hospitality, inspiration, wellness, and experiences seamlessly. 

The hotel’s name is derived from two Malay words: Naluri (instinct), and Ria (joy), capturing Kimpton’s philosophy of joyful living guided by instinct. As Kuala Lumpur acts as a union of tradition and modernity, the Kimpton Naluria Kuala Lumpur will be a sanctuary for guests to embrace both adventure and peace.

“We are thrilled to debut IHG’s luxury lifestyle brand, Kimpton, in Malaysia, continuing the brand’s global expansion,” said Kimpton Naluria Kuala Lumpur General Manager Paul Cunningham. “Kimpton Naluria Kuala Lumpur is beyond just an inspirational space to stay — it will be the city’s next vibrant social hub… Location-wise, we’re surrounded by the perfect blend of commerce and creativity, with retail, dining, and green spaces that invite discovery.”

Guests can look forward to enjoying Kimpton’s unique signature amenities, including “Forgot It, We’ve Got It!” – offering essential travel items, “Kimpton Kickstart” – with complimentary morning coffees and teas in the lobby, and “Kimpton Social” – a daily hosted social hour with curated drinks, conversation, and more. 

The Kimpton Naluria Kuala Lumpur’s dining options will include four distinct experiences: Four Siblings, a destination rooftop bar and lounge, and Tuai + Till, an all-day dining concept that transforms into two unique evening venues: Tuai, a cozy Malaysian café, and Till, an elegant Western brasserie. A retro Italian-American restaurant is still in development. 

The hotel will also offer five versatile event spaces that are designed to create meaningful human connections, suitable for social soirees or business meetings. 

The Kimpton Naluria Kuala Lumpur’s interiors were designed in collaboration with award-winning Hassell Studio and will combine urban energy with natural calm. The design will feature organic textures, natural stones, lush greenery, and floor-to-ceiling windows that show the city’s wonderful views and inspire a sense of serenity within the vibrant city of Kuala Lumpur. 

From ultra-personalized luxury-meets-lifestyle experiences with playful sophistication mixed with Malaysian allure, the Kimpton Naluria Kuala Lumpur will surely be your newest favorite hideaway in the city. 

For more information, visit Kimpton Naluria Kuala Lumpur’s website, Facebook, and Instagram pages. 

Happy (advanced) International Museum Day to everyone who celebrates! 

To celebrate this momentous occasion around the world, the Department of Museums Malaysia (Jabatan Muzium Malaysia) is waiving admission fees for visitors on May 18, 2025, in all their museums around Malaysia! 

With this year’s theme, “The Future of Museums in Rapidly Changing Communities,” museums around the world invite museumgoers and the public to reimagine the role of museums as essential connectors, innovators, and stewards of cultural identity. The theme is also aligned with three Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs 8, 9, 11), with museums acting as an empowering and driving force for communities, technological advancements, and inclusivity. 

Celebrating International Museum Day in Kuala Lumpur? Here is the list of museums under the Department of Museums Malaysia (JMM) located in Kuala Lumpur that you can come and visit on May 18!

Museums in Kuala Lumpur under Jabatan Muzium Malaysia

Muzium Negara (National Museum)

This museum is dedicated to Malaysian art, culture, history, and ethnology. The displays in the museum range from free-standing tableaux, traditional weapons, musical instruments, arts and crafts, ceramics, and flora and fauna. 

Location: Jalan Damansara, 50566 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Opening Hours: 9 AM to 5 PM (final entry: 4:30 PM), Daily (Except first and second days of Eid al-Fitr and the first Eid al-Adha)

Muzium Entologi Dunia Melayu (Malay World Ethnology Museum)

This museum focuses on the diverse socio-cultural aspects of the Malay community in Malaysia. The museum houses a collection of highly aesthetic artifacts such as traditional arts, clothing, games, and more.

Location: Jalan Damansara, 50566 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Opening Hours: 9 AM to 5 PM, Daily (Except first and second days of Eid al-Fitr and the first Eid al-Adha)

Muzium Seni Kraf Orang Asli (Orang Asli Craft Museum)

The museum showcases the rich heritage of Orang Asli crafts in Peninsular Malaysia, specifically focusing on the artistic traditions of the Mah Meri tribe. The museum is divided into eight galleries that depict the life and crafts of the Orang Asli.

Location: Jalan Damansara 50566 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Opening Hours: 9 AM to 5 PM, Daily (Except first and second days of Eid al-Fitr and the first Eid al-Adha)

Muzium Tekstil Negara (National Textile Museum)

The heritage building was originally used by various departments and institutions before it became a museum. The museum has four galleries: the Tree of Wisdom Gallery, Rainbow Gallery, Gallery of Chain Bay, and the Ratna Sari Gallery. 

Location: JKR 26, Jalan Sultan Hishamudin, 50050 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Opening Hours: 9 AM to 5 PM, Daily (Except first and second days of Eid al-Fitr and the first Eid al-Adha)

Muzium Muzik Malaysia (Music Museum of Malaysia)

First opened in 2015, the museum is a dedicated space to exhibit ethnic musical instruments and to document the development of traditional music in the country.

Location: 29, Jalan Raja, 50050 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Opening Hours: 9 AM to 5 PM, Daily (Except first and second days of Eid al-Fitr and the first Eid al-Adha)

The Muzium Diraja Kuala Lumpur (Royal Museum) is closed until further notice for maintenance works. 

Museums under JMM in other Malaysian states will also offer free admission.

For more information, follow the Department of Museums Malaysia on Facebook. You may check out their website here.

Ready to explore the City of Lights? Here’s some good news for you, traveler! Malaysia is reinforcing its position as the “gateway to Asia and beyond” as its national carrier launched its inaugural direct flight to Paris, France!

Malaysia Airlines marked its 68th destination as it returned to Paris with Flight MH22, departing from Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) to Paris’ Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG). 

The inaugural flight happened last Mar. 22, leaving KLIA at 11:45 PM (MYT) and arriving in Paris at 6:40 AM (CET). A send-off event and ribbon-cutting ceremony were held at the departure gate to celebrate the milestone, where passengers received special goodie bags. They were also joined by representatives from Malaysia Aviation Group (MAG) including Boo Hui Yee, Group Chief Financial Officer of MAG and Dersenish Aresandiran, Chief Commercial Officer of Airlines (MAG).

Malaysia Airlines operated four weekly flights from Mar. 22 to 27, which received overwhelming flight loads reaching 95% for MH22 and 98% for the return leg MH21, showing the strong demand for travel between Malaysia and France. The airline has now increased to daily flights, which can be booked via their website and mobile application. 

“The launch of our direct service to Paris marks a significant milestone for Malaysia Airlines as we expand our European footprint and reconnect Malaysia with one of the world’s most iconic destinations,” said Dersenish Aresandiran, Chief Commercial Officer of Airlines from MAG.

“This route not only strengthens our position as the gateway to Asia and beyond but also reflects the growing demand for seamless travel between Malaysia and France. In anticipation of this return, we introduced the ‘Time for Paris’ campaign last year, inviting travelers to rediscover the magic of the City of Light with Malaysia Airlines’ signature Malaysian Hospitality. We are thrilled to now bring this journey to life and look forward to welcoming passengers on board for a truly memorable travel experience.”

Apart from the goodie bags, passengers also received a “Time for Memorable Journeys” pocketbook. The Paris edition is the first in an ongoing series designed to enhance the travel experience by providing useful tips and information for navigating the city. It includes useful local phrases, French etiquette, and insights into Parisian cuisine, helping travelers explore the city like a local and make the most of their adventures. 

Malaysia Airlines is also expanding travel options for passengers flying to Paris and beyond with its long-standing partner, American Airlines. With the return of this route, passengers can now access four additional U.S. destinations from Paris via CDG, including New York (JFK), Dallas (DFW), Miami (MIA), and Orlando (ORD). 

What are you waiting for? Let Malaysia Airlines be your travel partner in exploring the world, one amazing city at a time, by booking your flights today!

Visit their website for more information or follow them on Facebook, X (Formerly Twitter), TikTok, and Instagram for updates on new routes and flight deals.