By PAUL MU
Email: muvitet@gmail.com
KOTA KINABALU: Following a rebranding exercise, JSK Mantanani has been renamed JSK Mantanani Island Resort Trademark Collection by Wyndham.
The resort, located on Mantanani Besar Island and accessible via a 45-minute speedboat ride from the Rampayan departure jetty in Kota Belud, has entered into a franchise agreement with Wyndham Hotels & Resorts, the world’s largest hotel franchising company in March 2026.
The move marks a new chapter for Sabah’s hospitality industry and reflects the growth ambitions and vision of the JSK Group of Companies under the leadership of Managing Director Datuk Johnny Wong Chen Yee.
By joining the Trademark Collection, the resort will retain its distinct Sabahan identity while adopting the global standards, operational excellence and prestige associated with the Wyndham brand.
The resort’s architectural identity combines coastal elegance with tropical influences. Buildings are strategically positioned along white sandy beaches to maximise panoramic views of the South China Sea.
Its boutique island design features elegant villas that blend modern sophistication with traditional island aesthetics, while the low-impact architecture integrates with the natural surroundings.
Open-air concepts and premium finishes reflect the individuality of the Trademark Collection, with airy interiors designed to provide comfort in the tropical climate.
Guests will also experience hospitality aligned with Wyndham’s global service standards following a comprehensive transformation of the resort’s guest experience.
The integration combines Sabahan hospitality with the consistency, professionalism and quality assurance of an international hotel brand.
The resort also remains committed to environmental conservation through a range of sustainable tourism initiatives and nature-based experiences.
Among the activities offered are guided night safaris to observe the rare Mantanani Scops Owl and flying foxes, as well as evening firefly tours.
The resort also supports sea turtle conservation through the protection of nesting sites and hatchling release programmes, while efforts are also being undertaken to safeguard seagrass areas and marine biodiversity.
Its environmental approach includes sustainable waste management and energy-efficient practices.
Facilities at the resort include a wellness and spa sanctuary offering rejuvenating treatments inspired by traditional and modern wellness practices.
The resort also features a dive centre offering Discover Scuba Diving (DSD) programmes for beginners and leisure diving activities for certified divers.
Other attractions include glass-bottom kayaking, snorkelling, paddleboarding, beachfront leisure spaces and scenic viewing areas.
Guests can also enjoy curated dining experiences featuring fresh seafood, Sabahan cuisine and international dishes.
Accommodation is centred around luxury villas designed for seamless indoor-outdoor living and located close to the beachfront.
Guests will also have access to the Wyndham Rewards programme, allowing them to earn and redeem points at more than 60,000 properties worldwide.
“This partnership with Wyndham Hotels & Resorts is a testament to our commitment to excellence,” said Datuk Johnny Wong.
“We are not just offering a place to stay. We are creating one of Borneo’s premier island destinations where luxury, architecture, world-class service and nature come together to deliver unforgettable experiences.”
Johnny Wong (third left), and his team with the representatives of Wyndham
Johnny Wong (left), and a representative of Wyndham holding the signed document.
Aerial view of Mantanani Island Resort.
