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Kuala Lumpur: Sabah-based, JSK Group of Companies marked a major milestone in Sabah’s hospitality industry following a strategic partnership between subsidiary, JSK Mantanani Island Resort and Wyndham Hotels & Resorts, the world’s largest hotel franchising company.

Under the agreement announced on March 18, the resort will be rebranded as JSK Mantanani Island Resort, Trademark Collection by Wyndham, signalling a new chapter for luxury island tourism in Sabah.

The partnership reflects the expansion plans and vision of JSK Group of Companies under the managing director Datuk Johnny Wong Chen Yee, while positioning the resort among globally recognised hospitality destinations.

Johnny signed on behalf of JSK Mntanani while Wyndham Hotels & Resorts Asia Pacific was represented by its President Ooi Joon Aun.

He described the collaboration as a commitment to delivering a world-class island destination in Borneo.

“We are not just offering a place to stay but creating one of Borneo’s premier island destinations where luxury, architecture, world-class service and nature come together to deliver unforgettable experiences,” Johnny said.

The resort off Kota Belud, he said would retain its Sabah identity while integrating the Wyndham’s international hospitality standards, operational excellence and framework through the prestigious Trademark Collection brand.

The resort’s architectural identity is a masterclass in coastal elegance, designed to evoke refined luxury while paying homage to its tropical surroundings. 

“Designed to blend luxury with the island’s natural surroundings, the resort features elegant boutique-style villas inspired by tropical island aesthetics and low-impact architecture aimed at preserving the environment as well as creating a seamless connection with the nature.

“Its signature aesthetics is the open-air concepts and premium finishes reflecting the individuality and charm of the Trademark Collection,” Johnny said.

The resort’s beachfront positioning offer panoramic views of the South China Sea while maintaining harmony with the surrounding ecosystem.

 “Among its conservation-focused activities are as follows:-

Nocturnal Wildlife Encounters: Guided night safaris to observe the rare Mantanani Scops Owl and flying foxes.

Enchanted Firefly Tours: Evening excursions showcasing the island’s natural bioluminescence.

Sea Turtle Conservation: Active protection of nesting sites and hatchling release programs.

Seagrass & Marine Protection: Safeguarding vital marine ecosystems and biodiversity.

Green Environment Philosophy: Eco-conscious operations including sustainable waste and energy practices.

“It also offers world class facilities to the guests at the island resort which includes a wellness spa, and dive centre that offers guests to discover the vibrant underwater world with Discover Scuba Diving (DSD) for beginners and Leisure Diving (LD) for certified divers.

“As for aquatic adventures, guests can enjoy glass-bottom kayaking, snorkelling, paddle-boarding, and other water-based activities in crystal-clear waters.

“They will also gain access to the Wyndham Rewards programme, allowing them to earn and redeem points across more than 60,000 properties worldwide,” he said.