Proof that our country is among some of the most beautiful in the world, integrated destination resort Desaru Coast, located on the south-eastern coast of Johor, has been named one of TIME Magazine’s World’s Greatest Places of 2021, a list comprising 100 of the magazine’s top destinations from around the world. The third annual edition of the list, published on 20 July 2021, was compiled by TIME’s international network of correspondents as well as industry experts.

Desaru Coast is the only destination in Malaysia to make the list this year. The destination is recommended to a global audience as a beach escape offering a coveted list of international hotels and other draws such as world-class golf courses and cruises through the Sedili Wetlands. The magazine also highlights that the imminent opening of the Desaru Coast Ferry Terminal will offer increased transit options for Singapore and Indonesia.

“We are honoured to be globally recognised by such a renowned publication and we are proud to fly the flag for both Johor and Malaysia. This is an outstanding achievement for a team only two years in operations, and after what has been and continues to be a challenging time for the industry. With this notable feather in our cap, we look forward to welcoming guests from all over the world once travel resumes,” said Desaru Coast Destination Resort Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Roslina Arbak.

Desaru Coast is nestled against 17km of pristine beachfront and home to world-class and ultra-luxury hotels, including Asia’s first, One&Only Desaru Coast, Anantara Desaru Coast Resort & Villas, The Westin Desaru Coast Resort and Hard Rock Hotel Desaru Coast.

Here’s a more in-depth look at the four luxury hotels located within its perimeters.

One&Only Desaru Coast

The first One&Only in Asia, the resort unearths a breathtaking collection of luxury suites, a crowning villa, and One&Only Private Homes, all inspired by the beauty and traditions of Malaysia’s enchanting southeast. Showcasing fresh exotic delicacies with flair and flavour; cultivating wellness with new and ancient local wisdoms; curating adventures through unspoilt nature and warm tropical waters; One&Only Desaru Coast seeks to illuminate secrets of the east like never before. W oneandonlyresorts.com

Anantara Desaru Coast Resorts & Villa

Offering a range of luxury accommodation nestled in lush tropical gardens, Anantara Desaru Coast Resort & Villas offers a serene escape on golden Malaysian shores. Low-rise buildings and stand-alone villas overlook the gardens, lagoon and ocean, while expansive residences offer families and groups utmost privacy with an infinity pool, full kitchen and chef and butler service.Enjoy the diversions of Desaru Coast, Malaysia’s rising-star resort destination, or relax in coastal tranquillity, immersed in authentic Anantara luxury. W anantara.com

The Westin Desaru Coast Resort

Set along the sparkling South China Sea, The Westin Desaru Coast Resort offers a refreshing sanctuary in beautiful Johor, Malaysia. Unwind and relax on its beach in the warm Desaru sun, or venture beyond the hotel and explore diverse attractions including Adventure Water Park Desaru Coast and Kota Tinggi Firefly Park. Savour healthy, inventive fare, creative cocktails and an interactive kitchen concept at the resort’s restaurants and beach bar. Create and celebrate in sophisticated spaces ideal for meetings, weddings and social events. After a full day in Johor, refresh your mind and body with a wide array of holistic body treatments at the resort spa. Inside the hotel, a haven of serenity awaits. Rest well in tranquil accommodations with spacious floor plans, scenic private balconies and our signature Westin Heavenly Beds. Enjoy colourful sunsets, attentive service and glittering coastal waters at The Westin Desaru Coast Resort. W marriott.com

Hard Rock Hotel Desaru Coast

Heart-pounding, soul-touching, and passionately unpredictable, Hard Rock Hotel Desaru Coast is a music-infused, memorabilia-bedecked experience. Amplify the good vibes with poolside Mexican cuisine and an underwater sound system. Fuel late-night benders in your luxury suite with handpicked records, personal playlists, and Fender® rentals. Hard Rock in Desaru Coast, Johor, is nothing short of legendary. W hardrockhotels.com

The TIME list this year tributes to the people and businesses at the forefront of those industries who, amid extraordinary circumstances, found ways to adapt, build and innovate. To view TIME’s full list of the World’s Greatest Places of 2021, please visit https://time.com/collection/worlds-greatest-places-2021/

(Photos: Respective hotels)