Beast & Butterflies serves an enticing fusion of Penang and international flavours.
WHEN coastal charm meets Peranakan chic, what emerges is a getaway that reimagines hospitality for a new generation of travellers.
With 318-room M Social Resort Penang, officially open now, features a vibrant design inspired by Penang’s heritage, with geometric patterns, murals and a tropical colour palette of rose pink, sea green and sky blue.
Ramli and his wife Noora Ashikin (at centre), joining Saurabh (second from left), Yeoh (fifth left), Leng Beng (sixth left), Keh (far right) and other special guests during the grand launch of the resort in Tanjung Bungah.
The property in Tanjung Bungah is the first hotel in Malaysia to introduce in-room AI voice assistants and also has a virtual hotel in the Metaverse which guests can explore and potentially earn real-world rewards from.
“We’re thrilled to launch the resort in such a culturally rich and naturally beautiful destination, and will strive to be the hotel of choice for contemporary travellers,” said resort general manager Jasmine Keh.
The opening was attended by Penang Yang di-Pertua Negri Tun Ramli Ngah Talib and his wife Toh Puan Raja Noora Ashikin Raja Abdullah.
“There’s increasing demand for immersive experiences that foster connections with the locale, complemented by stylish comfort and unparalleled service,” Keh added.
M Social Resort Penang’s facade design was inspired by the island’s greenery and coastlines.
Also present were Tourism Malaysia deputy chairman Datuk Yeoh Soon Hin as well as Millennium Hotels and Resorts (MHR) executive chairman Kwek Leng Beng, executive director Kwek Eik Sheng and interim chief operating officer and chief commercial officer Saurabh Prakash.
M Social is an upscale lifestyle brand under MHR, with this resort marking its first Malaysian property, third in South-East Asia and seventh globally.
Rooms are divided into two wings – Sunset Bay and Azure.
Sharing his vision for M Social, Leng Beng said the aim was to build a brand that was bold, expressive and constantly evolving.
“This resort in Penang brought the vision to life through its vibrant design, creative energy and the state’s rich heritage.
“It’s a destination created for those who seek connection, inspiration and a sense of place,” he continued.
Eik Sheng said the property not only expanded their footprint in South-East Asia but also pushed the boundaries of what modern hospitality could be.
“It reflects our ambition to lead in digital innovation, sustainable design and lifestyle-driven travel.
“This would be our blueprint for the next generation of hotels – smart, social and deeply rooted in place,” he added.
Guests at the launch were treated to a lion dance with firecrackers and a performance by actress and singer Chelsia Ng.
She debuted a Malay version of My Island Home as a tribute to her birthplace of Penang.
After the ribbon-cutting, cake-cutting and digital plaque signing ceremonies, the crowd adjourned for lunch at Beast & Butterflies – the resort’s signature restaurant serving a vibrant fusion of Penang and international cuisines.
Other F&B options include The Social Hub for high tea and cocktails, and Breezy Bites by the pool for drinks, music, games and sunset views.
Saurabh described the resort as a canvas for culture and connection.
“There has never been a cookie-cutter formula at M Social,” he said.
“Each property was inspired and shaped by its distinct locations.
“And in Penang, that meant blending heritage with innovation and personality with purpose,” he added.
The resort is currently running “The Millennium Way” promotion with perks such as welcome drinks, chocolates and RM100 dining credit for stays until March 31, 2026.
MyMillennium members will also enjoy 3,000 bonus MyPoints for a consecutive three-night stay, or a 30,000 bonus MyPoints for accumulating nine nights by March 31 2026.
For details and booking, visit www.msocial.com/penang
