Set against the pristine coast of northeastern Malaysia, The Sireya, Mandarin Oriental promises weary travellers a serene haven to relax, unwind, and enjoy the quiet things in life.
My first time in Malaysia did not entail urban exploration in Kuala Lumpur or historical tourism in Penang. Rather, I found myself along the pristine white sands of Desaru Coast, along the country’s northeastern shores. While I usually favour local immersion over secluded resorts, The Sireya, Mandarin Oriental seamlessly weaves Malaysian culture into every aspect of luxury travel. My short stay at The Sireya was fulfilling, relaxing, and rejuvenating, offering a quiet yet vibrant experience.
Getting there
Prepare yourselves for several border crossings while reaching The Sireya. Since the Desaru Coast resort complex is situated away from major Malaysian airports, the most straightforward way to get there from Hong Kong is via land or ferry from Singapore.
You can opt for a car transfer from Changi Airport and the Singapore-Malaysia border, or catch one of the cross border coaches. Once you’re in Johor Bahru, another car transfer or coach will take you the rest of the way. The entire journey typically takes around 3 hours. Alternatively, the direct cruise from Singapore’s Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal to Desaru Coast Ferry Terminal offers a quicker 1.5-hour journey.
My own trip begins with a flight from Hong Kong to Singapore, followed by a car transfer straight to the resort. While the six-hour journey was lengthy, I can confidently say it’s well worth it – and here’s why.
The Sireya: Crown jewel of Desaru Coast
Nestled within the expansive Desaru Coast integrated resort, The Sireya stands alongside esteemed neighbours like Anantara Desaru Coast Resort & Villa, The Westin Desaru Coast Resort, and Hard Rock Hotel Desaru Coast. Having been through several transformations, beginning as a luxury property to an One And Only resort, The Sireya is now rebranded under Mandarin Oriental as of July 2025.
The Westin and Hard Rock Hotel are favourites among family and business travellers, thanks to its proximity to the Adventure Waterpark and the Desaru Coast Conference Centre. On the other hand, the Anantara, with its refined modern aesthetic, architecture, and design, aligns with The Sireya’s commitment to quiet luxury.
My journey to the resort was a winding one through Desaru’s lush jungle, underscoring the resort’s secluded nature. Rows of rainforest trees eventually gave way to a discreet, gated entrance, hinting at the private escape awaiting within.
The villas: Your home in heaven
As a villa-only property, The Sireya offers an ideal escape for travellers seeking tranquillity and recluse from the hustle and bustle. This serene destination embraces a stripped back, minimalist aesthetic, featuring white hues, wooden accents, and lush greenery. Upon arrival, The Sireya’s team greeted us in the open reception area, where we received a comprehensive introduction to the resort before guiding us on a tour of our private villas.
The villa’s design takes inspiration from local architectural influences, separating the bedroom and bathroom with a serene paddle pool and an inviting outdoor seating area. Each space is thoughtfully appointed with a king-sized bed, dedicated work space, and both indoor and outdoor lounging areas, while the bathrooms feature a standing shower and luxurious bathtub.
The food: Southeast Asia delights
There are two restaurants at The Sireya: Ambara and Ember Beach Club. Both restaurants showcase a delightful fusion of local and international cuisines for all-day dining. Ambara is conveniently located near the main pool, reception, and villas. Although Ember Beach Club is further removed from the main hotel area, a quick five-minute buggy ride can get you there with ease.
While I thoroughly enjoyed Ambara’s abundant buffet breakfast spread, Ember stood out with its stunning beachside setting. I recommend experiencing the beach club at sunset – the perfect time to lounge back with an aperitif on a cabana before dinner.
The experiences: From a jungle cruise to music festival
Given Desaru Coast’s off-the-beaten-path vibe, the resort offers a variety of activities for you to enjoy during your stay. For those looking to stay active, a refreshing dip in the pool or a thrilling game of pickleball with friends are great choices. Alternatively, head straight for the white sand beach just steps away from the villas, or make your way to the Ember Beach Club for an even more expansive stretch of coast.
Named after the resident dusky leaf monkeys, The Dusky Monkey bar offers interactive cocktail-making classes. I learnt how to perfect a rum-based Espresso Martini from the passionate bar manager, Steward Morris. His patient guidance, combined with the bar’s unique selection of Caribbean rums and single-origin coffees, made for a memorable and enjoyable experience.
If you’re planning on visiting The Sireya in September, check to see if the dates of your trip line up with the Ombak Festival! Taking place exclusively at Desaru Coast, this vibrant event seamlessly blends the arts, culture, and nature of the straits with contemporary Southeast Asian music.
For an immersive nature experience, I highly recommend a cruise on the Lebam River. This jungle voyage takes you through a vibrant mangrove forest, offering a glimpse into the local ecosystem where tropical flora and fauna thrive. I was captivated by the sight of blooming mango and mangosteen trees, soaring tropical birds, and monkeys foraging in the low tide areas.
Desaru Coast: Malaysia’s best kept secret
My stay at The Sireya was brief yet profoundly restorative. The resort has thoroughly captivated me with its tranquil ambience and proximity to nature. This short trip offered the perfect environment respite from Hong Kong’s fast-pace, allowing me to disconnect and rejuvenate. This brief escape revitalised my appreciation for life’s simpler pleasures, allowing me to return to work feeling refreshed and renewed.
How to get to The Sireya, Mandarin Oriental: Take a flight from Hong Kong to Singapore or Kuala Lumpur, then take a bus or arrange a private transfer with the hotel.
Ideal for: Nature lovers, couples, and those seeking a secluded and quiet escape
Price: From RM3,690 per night (approximately HKD6,809)
Address: Persiaran Damai, Desaru Coast, Bandar Penawar, Johor Darul Ta’zim, 81930, Malaysia
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main dining options at The Sireya, and what type of cuisine do they serve?
The Sireya has two primary restaurants: Ambara, which offers an abundant buffet breakfast and a fusion of local and international cuisines; and Ember Beach Club, which provides a relaxed, beachside atmosphere and is especially recommended for a sundowner with an aperitif.
What kinds of unique experiences and activities does the resort offer beyond a typical luxury stay?
Beyond standard amenities like the pool, the resort offers several unique experiences. You can take a jungle cruise on the nearby Lebam River to see local flora and fauna in a vibrant mangrove forest. The resort also offers cocktail-making classes with a knowledgeable bar manager, specialising in Caribbean rums and single-origin coffees.
Is the resort suitable for a quick trip, and how long does it take to get there from a major airport?
While the journey from Hong Kong is lengthy, there is a ferry from Singapore's Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal which takes about 1.5 hours to get to Desaru Coast, and a car transfer from Singapore's Changi Airport takes about 3 hours.
