Originally intended as a secluded family retreat for Dato’ Franky Chua, Mangala Resort and Spa today upholds the founding values of sustainable living and giving back to nature
Formerly a barren wasteland left abandoned after nearly 70 years of tin and sand mining activities, the grounds of Mangala Resort and Spa today tell a remarkable story of second chances and seeing value in the unwanted. It was Dato' Franky Chua who had the idea of turning this land in the secluded but beautiful town of Gambang in Pahang into a holiday retreat for his family.
Related: Mangala Resort and Spa and 6 More Malaysian Retreats To Surround Yourself With Greenery
It took 15 years to complete and when it was, its transformation into a green paradise had a tremendous uplifting effect on family members and friends. “It's a place where you can breathe deeply, pause and reflect on what is truly important to you,” says Chua, the low-profile founder and managing director of Franky Group. “So I slowly began to open up to the idea of setting up a nature resort.”
This eco-conscious five-star resort has garnered prestigious international acclaim including being the first Malaysian resort to be awarded the FIABCI World Prix D’Excellence Award 2018 in the Environmental category. It was also named the Luxury Villa Resort Continent Winner for Asia at the 2018 World Luxury Hotels Award, among others.
More: The Best Nature Retreats Within a 2-Hour Drive From Kuala Lumpur
Uniquely bonded to the wellbeing of its surroundings, Mangala Resort’s greatest appeal is perhaps its ability to connect guests to the beauty of a land that was once neglected and uninhabitable.
Tatler hears from Chua on how the resort gives back to its natural environment and why the demand for sustainability driven resorts will only increase in time.
