YTL Hotels to Transform Thistle Johor Bahru into JW Marriott by 2026

YTL Hotels, a prominent Malaysian hospitality group, has partnered with Marriott International to convert the former Thistle Johor Bahru into the JW Marriott Hotel Johor Bahru. The new hotel is set to open its doors on December 1, 2026. This development marks the first JW Marriott property in Johor Bahru and the second in Malaysia, following the establishment of the JW Marriott Hotel Kuala Lumpur.

In a strategic move, YTL Hotels announced the acquisition of Thistle Johor Bahru from GuocoLand Ltd for RM150 million (approximately US$36.4 million). The acquisition was finalized on December 1, and the property is currently undergoing extensive renovations to align it with the JW Marriott brand standards.

Dato Mark Yeoh Seok Kah, Executive Director of YTL Hotels, expressed enthusiasm about the collaboration, stating, “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.” He emphasized the hotel’s transformation into a sanctuary of modern luxury that encapsulates the essence of the JW Marriott brand.

Hotel Features and Amenities

The JW Marriott Hotel Johor Bahru will occupy a 1.9-hectare site and is expected to offer 410 rooms and suites. The hotel will embody the JW Marriott brand’s focus on holistic well-being, intuitive service, and timeless design. Guest accommodations will feature contemporary interiors, high-end amenities, and panoramic views of the surrounding area.

Rajeev Menon, President, Asia-Pacific excluding China at Marriott International, highlighted the significance of this development, saying, “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.” He noted that Johor Bahru’s robust connectivity and rising profile as a cross-border hub make it an ideal location for the JW Marriott brand.

The hotel will also offer a range of facilities, including an executive lounge, a tennis court, three pickleball courts, an outdoor resort-style swimming pool, a state-of-the-art fitness center, a Kids’ Club, and a spa featuring five treatment rooms and hydrothermal amenities. Dining options will vary, with an all-day restaurant, a bakery and coffee kiosk, a Chinese restaurant, a smokehouse, and a lobby lounge.

Further enhancing its appeal, the hotel will introduce the signature JW Garden, a tranquil green space that reflects the brand’s commitment to mindful living and sustainability. Additionally, the hotel’s social and event facilities will cover 2,517 square meters, featuring a grand ballroom of 900 square meters, a junior ballroom of 600 square meters, and 16 versatile meeting rooms.

As the hospitality industry continues to evolve, the JW Marriott Hotel Johor Bahru aims to set a new standard for luxury accommodations in the region. With its strategic location and comprehensive amenities, the hotel is poised to attract both business and leisure travelers, contributing to the growth of Johor Bahru as a premier destination.