YTL Hotels, in partnership with Marriott International, has officially announced plans 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.
Dato’ Mark Yeoh Seok Kah, Executive Director, YTL Hotels, comments, “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 travellers. We look forward to transforming this hotel into a sanctuary of modern luxury that embodies the essence of JW Marriott.”
“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 make it a natural fit for JW Marriott’s thoughtful and inspired brand positioning.”
The transformative renovation of the 410-key, 1.9-hectare JW Marriott Hotel Johor Bahru will deliver a comprehensive urban resort experience centred on holistic well-being and intuitive service. Guests will enjoy contemporary rooms with panoramic views, an exclusive Executive Lounge, and extensive recreation facilities, outdoor pool, a fitness centre, a five-room spa, a tennis court, and three pickleball courts. Event spaces total 2,517 square meters, featuring a 900-sqm grand ballroom and a 600-sqm junior ballroom. Additional facilities will include a Kids’ Club, the brand’s signature JW Garden, a tranquil green space amid the busy city, and a curated selection of dining venues: an all-day restaurant, bakery/coffee kiosk, Chinese restaurant, smokehouse, and Lobby Lounge.
Strategically located at the crossroads of Jalan Sungai Chat and Jalan Lingkaran Dalam, the JW Marriott Hotel Johor Bahru offers seamless access to major commercial, leisure, and transport hubs. It is minutes from the upcoming Bukit Chagar RTS Station and CIQ checkpoint, and within a 10-20 minute drive of Senai International Airport, Mid Valley Southkey, and LEGOLAND® Malaysia. Marking the second JW Marriott property in Malaysia (joining JW Marriott Hotel Kuala Lumpur), this new luxury addition reflects Marriott’s confidence in the country’s tourism growth and its strategy to expand its luxury footprint across the Asia Pacific.