Desaru Coast has announced a strategic partnership with ONE°15 Marina, a subsidiary of Singapore-based SUTL Enterprise, to develop and operate new maritime facilities at the Desaru Coast Ferry Terminal. The partnership was formalised during the Singapore Yachting Festival 2025, held at ONE°15 Marina Sentosa Cove.
The agreement, which brings together two leading names in leisure and marina development, aims to strengthen Desaru Coast’s position as a key lifestyle destination on the southeastern coast of Johor, Malaysia.
Under the new arrangement, ONE°15 Marina Desaru Coast will manage both wet and dry berths and introduce a portfolio of sailing events and luxury yacht charters designed to attract both regional and international yacht owners and guests.
“This partnership is the manifestation of the strong bilateral cooperation between Singapore and Johor with the impending Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone and demonstrates investor confidence in Desaru Coast,” said Karina Ridzuan, Director of Business Services at Destination Resorts and Hotels Sdn. Bhd, the parent company of Desaru Ferry Sdn. Bhd.
Already known for its beachfront resorts, world-class golf courses and wellness retreats, Desaru Coast is now positioning itself to play a more prominent role in the regional yachting circuit.
The newly launched marina will offer visiting yachts improved access to the Malaysian coastline, while also providing enhanced infrastructure for private yacht charters, regattas and marine leisure activities.
Arthur Tay, Executive Director and CEO of SUTL Enterprise, commented: “I’m excited about our partnership with Desaru Coast as we welcome a new marina personality into the growing ONE°15 network of marinas across Asia. My vision is to deliver unique experiences that enrich our community of members, boaters, and yachting enthusiasts across the region.”
The announcement, made during a press event at the Desaru Coast booth on the second day of the Singapore Yachting Festival, also highlighted the destination’s upcoming cultural event, Ombak Festival 2025, scheduled for September.
Festival guests will be among the first to experience the new marina and its offerings, combining maritime exploration with music, arts and cultural programming.
“Each year, Desaru Coast proudly hosts Ombak Festival, our signature international celebration of music, arts and culture,” Ridzuan added. “We look forward to welcoming the yachting community to experience the Ombak Festival with us this year.”
Beyond bolstering tourism and connectivity between Johor and Singapore, the collaboration is also geared towards long-term community investment, with plans for maritime education initiatives and talent development in the pipeline.
“We are delighted to partner with the esteemed ONE°15 Marina to introduce premium marina facilities and curated sailing experiences at the Desaru Coast Ferry Terminal,” concluded Ridzuan.
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By Sophie Spicknell
