Seeking to diversify its inbound source markets, The Westin Desaru Coast Resort held a destination showcase in Singapore to position the coastal retreat as an alternative choice for international business events.
The 275-key resort, which manages the Desaru Coast Conference Centre, offers a grand ballroom capable of accommodating up to 1,400 delegates within 1,252m2 of total event space. Featuring a 6.8m ceiling height, naturally lit pre-function areas, and advanced technology, the facilities are designed to deliver the Westin Meetings programme, which integrates wellness into every stage of the event journey. These facilities are further complemented by three additional meeting rooms.
While Malaysia remains the resort’s top corporate market with significant volume from Kuala Lumpur, Singapore currently sits in second place. According to Colby Choo, director of sales & marketing for The Westin Desaru Coast Resort, the property is now looking beyond these established channels.
“We feel that these markets are nearing the ceiling, and are trying to explore new inbound markets,” he said. He pointed to a major buyout group arriving this week – booked through a Singapore travel agent – consisting of 420 delegates from various countries across Asia Pacific. The group will arrive in Singapore before taking a chartered ferry to Desaru for a three-night stay.
Choo noted that such international groups, specifically those with regional headquarters in Singapore, will be the primary target for the resort’s growth strategy.
Outbound corporate groups from China are also high on the agenda following an increase in enquiries over the past year, including a group booking that materialised in October 2025.
To capture this interest, Choo is proposing a “twin destination” strategy to potential Chinese clients. While Desaru is known for its tranquil coastline rather than shopping, he suggests combining the trip with a visit to Johor Premium Outlets on the return journey to Singapore or Senai International Airport.
“We plan to undertake more sales calls in China with Marriott International and participate in major tradeshows such as IMEX and IBTM alongside the Malaysia Convention & Exhibition Bureau. We also made a new hire dedicated to selling Marriott’s Malaysian properties to international groups,” Choo shared.
As part of its continued investment in the business events segment, The Westin Desaru Coast Resort will also launch a dedicated digital platform focused exclusively on meetings and events. Expected to go live this month, the new website will serve as a centralised resource for planners, featuring comprehensive venue details, floor plans, and tailored offerings.
In his new role, he is responsible for strategy, operations and performance in India, with a focus on sustainable growth, operational delivery and team leadership.
