Malaysia has added five new hotels to the Michelin Keys Selection for 2026, expanding the country’s presence in the global hospitality accolade. The recent announcement highlights properties across Kuala Lumpur, Johor, Penang, and Langkawi that received their first Michelin Keys distinctions, bringing Malaysia’s total to nine recognized hotels.
All five new Malaysian hotels were awarded the One Key designation, marking a notable achievement in the growing prestige of the nation’s accommodation offerings. Among them, two hotels in George Town, Penang, earned their first Michelin Keys, becoming the first in the state to do so. Cheong Fatt Tze - The Qing Suites, which opened in December 2025, is a boutique property featuring 13 suites and a spa centered on traditional Chinese medicine. The second is Soori Penang, a luxury heritage hotel that began operations in January 2026, adjacent to the historic Khoo Kongsi clan house and museum.
Johor’s Mandarin Oriental, Desaru Coast also joined the selection, obtaining the One Key award shortly after its opening in January 2026. The beachfront resort took over from the former One&Only Desaru Coast and continues to serve as a prominent luxury destination in the region.
Langkawi gained its second Michelin Keys property with The Datai Langkawi, a luxury beach resort celebrating its 33rd anniversary this year. The award further cements the island’s standing as an upscale travel destination.
In the capital city, Park Hyatt Kuala Lumpur received the One Key award, becoming the fourth hotel in Kuala Lumpur to earn this distinction. The hotel opened in August 2025 and offers panoramic views from the upper floors of Merdeka 118, currently the world’s second-tallest building.
Last year, the first Malaysian recipients included Else KL, located in the 1930s Art Deco Lee Rubber Building; The Ruma Hotel & Residences, known for views of the PETRONAS Twin Towers; and Four Seasons Hotel Kuala Lumpur, situated near the iconic twin towers. Only one Malaysian property—the Four Seasons Resort Langkawi—has received the Two Keys award to date, indicating a higher level of recognition.
Within Southeast Asia, Malaysia now ties with the Philippines for sixth place, each with nine hotels on the Michelin Keys list. Thailand leads the region with 71 Key hotels, followed by Indonesia (47), Vietnam (21), Cambodia (12), and Singapore (11). Laos and Myanmar have fewer entries, with two and one Key hotels respectively.
The Michelin Keys Selection is the hotel counterpart to the Michelin Stars awarded in the culinary industry. Launched three years ago, the program has recognized over 9,000 hotels worldwide. Ratings are determined through anonymous inspections by Michelin Guide reviewers, who experience and evaluate the hotels firsthand.