In part a stunning luxurious property that offers a brief respite from the chaos of the city, as well as a carefully constructed ecosystem on a substantial nature plot, the Mangala Estate Boutique Resort is a charming gem situated in Kuantan, Pahang. A mere two and a half hours’ drive from Kuala Lumpur, it offers a welcome pause amidst the sweltering heat of the city and the weather here even feels cooler. The resort, which has impressively won the World Gold in the Environmental (Rehabilitation/Conservation) Category at the FIABCI Prix d’Excellence Awards 2018, is the brainchild of Dato’ Franky Chua, the managing director and founder of the Franky Group of Companies.
The name Mangala, which symbolises auspicious well-being, is Sanskrit, as are many of the names incorporated throughout the resort. “A lot of names for properties are very generic. I’ve read a lot of books on meditation and a lot of Sanskrit words are mentioned there, which inspired me,” Chua says. “We first procured the land through a mutual understanding with third parties and, at that time, it was full of gullies, ponds and holes, with less than 10 per cent of topsoil because it was a former mining site. As the land spans 400ac, I thought that I would develop around 50ac during my retirement, and create my own fruit orchard and vegetable farm. I never had any initial plans of turning it into a resort. It took almost 20 years to beautify the whole area and we have since created a balanced ecosystem here.”
The mined-out areas have been turned into ponds, and a priority is even placed on wildlife over guests, as hunting, fishing and deforestation aren’t allowed. As a result, abundant flora and fauna flourish here, which guests can encounter during leisurely strolls around the estate or by zooming around on one of the golf buggies. The resort is now home to more than 100 species of birds, as audited by Taman Negara, and guests wake up to the chirping of rare migratory birds in one of the 67 well-appointed villas. This includes 10 stilted Jala Villas, resting majestically above the shimmering lakes with a spellbinding view only nature can produce, with each villa containing a jacuzzi bathtub to luxuriate in. Another worthy option is the Amani Villa, a stately semi-detached accommodation blending modern sophistication with timeless allure, which features a private saltwater plunge pool and houses four persons.
Nature is the locus of all activity here, and there are numerous recreational activities to keep guests occupied during their stay. For the adventurous, hop on a kayak or a paddle boat to explore the lake or channel your inner Robin Hood with a round of archery. There are multiple bicycles to choose from, including quadricycles and bicycles for children to wander around the property at sunrise. Otherwise, dabble in pétanque with friends or test your stamina with volleyball.
The tranquil haven wouldn’t be complete without a spa, and the indulgent treatments experienced here, amidst its lush tropical landscapes and serene lakes, don’t disappoint. The comprehensive spa menu delivered by skilled therapists features a range of restorative and rejuvenating treatments, including body massages, facials, detox baths, and body wraps.
Completing the thoughtfully crafted experiences at Mangala Estate Boutique Resort are the gastronomic offerings at the all-day restaurant, Estate Dining. Greens such as ulam raja and daun kesum are grown onsite and transported to the plates of guests with farm-to-table delights. The restaurant also offers authentic Pahang fare such as keropok lekor, which was better than any I’ve tried at roadside stalls, alongside Western classics such as scrumptious Mangala Wagyu Beef Burger.
With its lush landscapes, unique wildlife, and thoughtfully designed villas, the resort promises a rejuvenating experience away from the city’s bustle.
Photography: Law Soo Phye
