Chosen One: The Kasturi

Write up and images by Sir Cheapskate.

I’ve previously written about my intention of exploring more of the things my country, Malaysia offers. Truthfully, I wasn’t paying enough attention to the glories that we have here, from all the 14 states and Federal Territories.

This was our second time at The Kasturi. It’s a privilege, really because this resort is luxurious. Pretty expensive considering our local currency but definitely worth it.

We couldn’t say the exact price for one night here, not because we want to keep private, but because we didn’t pay for it. Here’s why in chronological order:

The resort is owned by the legendary architect of this country, Hijjas Kasturi.
Our friend (and fellow contributor), Askaree works for his firm.
Our friend is assigned to do some work here for the firm.
He invited us to come along, mainly as transport provider.

How could we say No, after the first time we went the previous year. This resort is special.

Location

The Kasturi is located in Cherating, Pahang in the East Coast of Malaysia, just before entering Terengganu state. The drive from Kuala Lumpur took 3 hours via the East Coast Highway 2.

Concept, Look and Feel

The Kasturi is Architect Hijjas Kasturi’s latest jewel, something that is very intimate to him and you can even feel it.

If I can put The Kasturi in one word, it would be Intimate.

A lot of consideration came into its design and making. The existing trees or coastal forest is maintained with very minimal intrusion. The forest sort of become the physical and metaphorical barrier between the havoc city life and the relaxing retreat.

The villas reflect the A-frame of traditional Malay house, with modern and more polished twist in its materials. As cited from its website, the roof structures if its villas imitate folded origami.

Components and Flow

You arrive at the resort and park your car before being treated to a welcome drink at its wooden welcome pavilion.

The welcome drink is magnificent, made of nutmeg and chosen by Mrs.Hijjas herself.

From there, you will be transported to your villa via buggy cruising along the curvy concrete pathway through the forest. By then, suddenly you will disengage from your busy life, only listening to the forest sound and ocean waves, although you are yet to see the water. What an experience.

The Beachfront Villa

This time we got the Beachfront Villa with one bedroom. Our jaws dropped because we weren’t expecting to get a villa, since we were there by the courtesy of the owner to carry out some work.

The villas have different designs, ranging from one to three rooms. Each with its own private pool, facing the beach.

Our villa is like a glass box. There’s a relaxing living area looking towards the pool and a few steps up is the bedroom with king bed. First thing you will see as you wake up from this bed is the beach and sunrise.

The Bathroom

My oh my. This is where the line between intimacy and openness gets blurred.

The Bathroom is a display of affection, with 2 shower (one outside in the open) and a sexy curve tub and his-and-her vanity counter. The inside and outside is divided by full-glass wall so you are constantly connected with the forest view.

Vanity and toiletries kits are more than complete.

Interior Design

The design resonates 1960’s vibe. The floor is terrazzo cut on site and the sliding panels that physically and visually divide the living are and bedroom is timber.

Overall colour scheme is of nature. If it’s not timber, stone, marble or terrazzo, then it’s the transparent glass.

Facilities

The more public area is located at the Main Building where they have a gymnasium, spa, bar, public swimming pool and restaurant.

This is where your breakfast is, overlooking the beach. There is also a beach volleyball court right next to the plaza deck.

Rimbun Dahan Turtle Hatchery

It is a grand plus point that the resort is adjacent to a turtle hatchery that is also included in its programmes.

We had the chance to release newly-hatched turtles into the ocean. How many times have you done so?

Overall Experience

This resort is nothing short of liberating. It is an amazing feeling when an Architecture piece is felt instead of just being seen.

We were blown away by the hospitality given by the staff members who are very warm and chatty like us too. Service given at breakfast is tiptop and we feel very special.