Your Guide to What’s New & What to Know

We’re always on the ground, and our local teams have the latest news to help plan your next trip for your guests.. Here’s what’s happening in Malaysia and Singapore.

Malaysia

Plan Ahead: Borneo’s Top Lodges Are in High Demand

Some of Borneo’s most sought-after stays, including Sukau, Danum Valley, Tabin and Kinabatangan, are booking up fast for 2026. With some dates already limited or sold out, we recommend booking at least 12 months in advance. For more options, consider the shoulder seasons of May–June or October–November, when wildlife encounters are just as rewarding. Our team is ready to help you lock in these rare stays and ensure your guests get the ultimate Borneo experience.

Hotel & Lodge Updates

Rosa Hotel Malacca: Getting an Upgrade 

This stylish hotel is getting even better! Rosa Hotel Malacca will be undergoing a major renovation and expansion to add a new wing from March 2025 to September 2026.

The hotel will remain open throughout this period, and all key facilities will be fully operational with minimal disruption. Construction noise will be limited to 9:00 am to 6:00 pm on weekdays, and no noisy work will be done on weekends. The hotel will notify guests of the ongoing work upon arrival.

A Quick Break for Borneo Rainforest Lodge 

The iconic Borneo Rainforest Lodge will be closed for essential maintenance and repair from 15-23 December, 2025. It will reopen just in time for Christmas on 24 December, 2025. For guests with affected bookings, our team is ready to assist with full refunds or alternative dates to ensure the adventure continues without a hitch.

Weather & Travel Advisory

Bungaraya Island Resort: Temporary Resort Relocation

The Malaysian Meteorological Department has issued a weather advisory for extreme conditions in September, with heavy rain and strong winds.

Following extreme weather that brought heavy rain, high tides, and flash floods to Sabah between 13th-16th September, Bungaraya Island Resort sustained damage and will be temporarily closed until 31 October, 2025, to expedite repairs.

All guests with confirmed bookings will be relocated to the sister property, Gayana Marine Resort, on the same island. To ensure a seamless experience, a complimentary dinner will be provided. The safety and comfort of your guests remain our top priority, and we thank you for your patience during this time.

Saloma Homestay: Closure for Refurbishment 

Please note that Saloma Homestay will be closed from  1 November, 2025, to the end of February 2026 for refurbishment, which will take place during the monsoon season. All bookings that have already been confirmed are valid and will proceed according to the weather.

Events and Festivities

Deepavali Celebration & What to Expect

Deepavali celebrations are around the corner, and it’s a bustling time of year! Expect vibrant events, especially in areas with a high Indian population like Kuala Lumpur’s Brickfields and Jalan Tuanku Abdul Rahman. Travellers should be prepared for significant road congestion and potential closures on major highways and expressways as locals travel back to their hometowns.

To fully experience the festival, we recommend visiting Batu Caves or the Sri Maha Mariamman Temple in downtown Kuala Lumpur to see the beautiful decorations and celebrations. Look out for the intricate kolam, colourful, temporary floor designs made from rice and powders at shopping malls and public places.

Singapore

Events and Festivities

Gardens by the Bay: A Swiss-Style Alpine Adventure 

Experience the breathtaking beauty of the Swiss Alps right here in Singapore. Gardens by the Bay’s latest floral display, “Alpine Adventure Starring Begonias,” transforms the Flower Dome into a stunning alpine landscape. Marvel at iconic Swiss landmarks recreated in blooms and discover over 50 varieties of alpine flowers, with vibrant begonias taking center stage. 

This beautiful display runs daily from 8 September  to 12 October, 2025, from 9:00 am to 9:00 pm.

Deepavali Celebration & What to Expect

Deepavali is just around the corner, and Singapore is getting ready to celebrate! Expect the vibrant and famous street light-up in Little India, where Serangoon Road and its surrounding streets are decorated with dazzling lights and arches. The Deepavali Festival Village on Campbell Lane is a must-visit for festive shopping and traditional treats.

To ensure a smooth trip, be aware that crowds and traffic may be heavy in the Little India area, especially in the days leading up to the festival.

Know Before You Go

Important Vaping Advisory 

For travellers to Singapore, please note that the possession, use and purchase of electronic vaporisers (vapes) are strictly prohibited. The government has recently enhanced its enforcement and penalties against vaping, with stiffer fines and more severe consequences for offenders. Please ensure no vaping products are brought into the country, even if they are for personal use.