Malaysian Excellence to Shine in Thailand's Hospitality Scene with EQ Phuket

KUALA LUMPUR, 18 November 2024 – Malaysia’s Equatorial Group is proud to announce a strategic joint venture with ONYX Hospitality Group, Thailand’s premier management company for luxury hotels, resorts, serviced apartments, and residences, to co-develop the EQ Phuket. This landmark luxury hospitality project is set to open in 2028 at one of Thailand’s leading tourist destinations. This exciting venture marks a pivotal development for both companies, bringing together Equatorial’s award-winning EQ brand and ONYX’s diverse portfolio—including Amari, OZO, Shama, and Oriental Residence.

The new development, with a projected total investment of THB 2.5 billion, will be located on Kata Beach, one of Phuket’s most iconic and scenic locations. This prime and much-coveted site features both stunning hilltop views and direct access to the beach, offering a distinctive difference among resorts there.

“Equatorial has been at the forefront of the hospitality industry for over fifty years in Malaysia. We are driven by our mission to create exceptional and enduring experiences with a distinctively Asian touch and our partnership with ONYX aligns perfectly,” commented Donald Lim, CEO of Equitorial Group.

He further elaborated, “the introduction of our EQ brand at the uppermost tier has taken the Malaysian hospitality industry to a new level. This exciting project begins the expansion of the EQ brand and we are delighted to be doing so with ONYX.”

Yuthachai Charanachitta, CEO of ONYX Hospitality Group, expressed, “the joint venture with Equatorial Group marks a significant milestone in our growth strategy, highlighting our shared commitment to delivering world-class hospitality experiences. By combining ONYX’s tailored approach with Equatorial Group’s expertise, we are confident that EQ Phuket will set a new benchmark in luxury hospitality. Its unique location, spacious rooms, and exceptional amenities will make it an irresistible destination.”

EQ Phuket is slated to offer 180 spacious units, catering to a wide range of regional, long-haul, and short-haul markets. Designed by one of the region’s leading architects, the resort will offer an unparalleled combination of hilltop serenity and beachfront activity. Guests will have access to a range of world-class amenities, including a range of restaurants and entertainment facilities at the beach plot.

Sustainability will be a central focus in the design and construction of this new project. The buildings will seamlessly blend with the natural landscape, ensuring that existing large trees are preserved. There is also a commitment to preserving a significant green space, with 50% of the overall area dedicated to greenery.