Ormond Sandakan, a new gateway to true Borneo

2026-03-09 - 09:34

Ormond Sandakan will open along Sandakan’s scenic waterfront in April 2026. (Ormond Sandakan pic) KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysian hospitality company Ormond Group will open Ormond Sandakan in April 2026, marking its latest expansion under the Ormond Hotels brand. The group is known for properties such as The Chow Kit – an Ormond Hotel in Kuala Lumpur, alongside lifestyle brands MoMo’s and Tune Hotels. Overlooking the Sulu Sea, the new hotel will bring the brand’s philosophy of “essential comforts, thoughtfully delivered” to Sabah’s east coast. Positioned along Sandakan’s waterfront, the property is designed to offer travellers a refined yet relaxed base from which to explore one of Borneo’s most nature-rich regions. Sandakan has long been known as a gateway to wildlife adventures and rainforest experiences. From here, visitors can journey into the Kinabatangan River region in search of pygmy elephants, proboscis monkeys and hornbills, or visit nearby conservation sites such as the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre and the Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre. Back in town, the harbourfront offers seafood restaurants, markets and a glimpse into the region’s trading history. Guest rooms are designed to maximise natural light and sea views. (Ormond Sandakan pic) Ormond Sandakan aims to complement these experiences with a stay that balances modern comfort and a sense of place. More than just a place to sleep, the hotel is envisioned as a welcoming retreat after days spent exploring Sabah’s rivers, forests and coastal landscapes. Interiors emphasise calm spaces, natural textures and thoughtful details that reflect the surrounding environment. The property will feature 299 guest rooms and suites overlooking Sandakan Bay. Options range from standard rooms to larger suites and connecting family rooms. Each room is designed to maximise natural light and unobstructed sea views, framing everything from quiet mornings over the water to dramatic sunsets across the horizon. The design draws inspiration from Borneo’s landscapes, incorporating natural materials, warm tones and simple lines to create interiors that feel grounded and restorative. Ormond Group chief executive officer Navin Singh said the new hotel reflects the brand’s commitment to thoughtful hospitality rooted in its surroundings. “With Ormond Sandakan, we’re bringing the Ormond philosophy of essential comforts, thoughtfully delivered to a destination that truly reflects our values of authenticity and connection to place,” he said. “Sandakan’s unspoilt coastline, rich wildlife and deep ties to nature offer a rare sense of balance. Our goal is to create a hotel that feels quietly attuned to its surroundings and community.” Sandakan offers easy access to wildlife destinations including the Kinabatangan River. (Ormond Sandakan pic) Dining will play a central role in the guest experience, with several outlets highlighting both international and local influences. Pietro, the hotel’s Mediterranean restaurant, will serve fresh seafood, handmade pastas and produce-forward dishes inspired by coastal cuisines, with Bornean ingredients woven into the menu. Rasa will focus on Malaysian comfort food, incorporating Sabahan produce and flavours into familiar dishes from across the country. For casual gatherings, Brew functions as a social hub combining a café and bar. Guests can enjoy artisanal coffee, craft beers, cocktails and light bites throughout the day. By the pool, Bayu offers a relaxed setting for tropical drinks and snacks while overlooking the waterfront. Sunrise breakfasts will be served at Rise, where a buffet of local and international favourites starts the day. Indulge in fresh seafood and Mediterranean flavours at Pietro. (Ormond Sandakan pic) Beyond leisure travel, the hotel is also positioned as an event destination. It will feature eight meeting and event spaces, including a 620-sq-m ballroom capable of hosting up to 800 guests. These venues are designed for weddings, conferences and private celebrations, with flexible layouts, natural lighting and modern event technology. The hotel’s location places guests within walking distance of Sandakan’s heritage town centre, markets and harbourfront promenade. From there, travellers can explore the town’s cultural sites, sample local food or set out for day trips to Sabah’s natural attractions. For many visitors, the appeal of Sandakan lies in its slower pace and proximity to nature. With its waterfront setting and easy access to both town and rainforest adventures, Ormond Sandakan hopes to position itself as a comfortable gateway to the region. The opening also marks another step in Ormond Group’s growth strategy as it continues to expand its portfolio across Malaysia and beyond. With brands ranging from the intimate luxury of The Chow Kit – an Ormond Hotel to the playful energy of MoMo’s and the convenience-driven Tune Hotels, the group is steadily broadening its approach to hospitality. Ormond Sandakan represents the next chapter in that journey, bringing a design-led, approachable hotel experience to travellers seeking both comfort and connection to place.