The glittering brainchild of Dato’ Leong Sir Ley is set to bring historical Malacca to life
In partnership with Sheng Tai International
For centuries, Malacca has had its own unique charm, with each decade adding a new layer of significance. Now, property maven Dato’ Leong Sir Ley – fondly dubbed “the Iron Lady of Property” – is set to write a new chapter in the story of Malacca with her new City of Hope masterplan. Jointly developed by Sheng Tai International Sdn Bhd and Yong Tai Berhad, the City of Hope will span several impressive buildings over nearly 166 acres, with a focus on fashion, wellness, artificial intelligence (AI), arts and culture – transforming Malacca into an international city and melting pot.
Rising to new heights
Dato’ Leong’s revolutionary ambitions centre around The Sail Melaka, a breathtaking feat of architecture that combines retail, residences, hospitality and commercial spaces across nine towers – all connected by a 460m swimming pool and sky bridge, with sea views of the Strait of Malacca. Each of these towers will house a unique mix of spaces: the Fashion Tower is set to be the new home of the Karl Lagerfeld luxury hotel and residences; the Wellness Tower will be home to new innovations in the field of stem cells, while the distinctive M Tower will be jointly designed by Dato’ Leong and Michelle Reis.
An incredible waterfront venue for concerts, conferences and festivals, The Encore Melaka will be the centre stage of the City of Hope, and a beacon for art lovers, with its 360-degree rotating auditorium seating and four different stages. Dato’ Leong is committed to bringing in more quality performances from Malacca, the rest of Malaysia and around the world. She has recently collaborated with a Japanese entertainment company to bring in shows from Japan.
Five-star hospitality
Beyond the City of Hope, Dato’ Leong Sir Ley’s vision includes transforming Malacca into an international hub for tourism with hospitality options elsewhere in the city.
The five-star Ames Hotel, located in Ayer Keroh, is walking distance from popular attractions such as the Melaka Wonderland Theme Park & Resort and the Zoo Melaka. Ames Hotel offers accommodation perfect for families and business travellers, with its own pool, fitness centre and on-site restaurant. After a long day of work or exploring, enjoy the evening breeze and city views at the rooftop bar, Moonbar.
Courtyard by Marriott Melaka is a contemporary city-centre hotel steps away from historic sites such as the Dutch-built Stadthuys and Kampung Morten. Refuel at the all-day Courtyard Cafe or with a cocktail at 1939 Lounge. Rooms are equipped with deluxe bedding and high-speed internet. Both hotels also boast great event hosting capabilities, with flexible ballrooms and meeting spaces for weddings, conferences and more.
For all-out luxury, there’s the hotly anticipated Azul V, 48m superyacht available for charter across the beautiful waters of Malaysia and Southeast Asia. The award-winning vessel sports a classic, Italian-style interior and all-new teak decking – as well as a gym, WiFi, six rooms for up to 12 guests and VIP suites, to name just a few exciting features.
City of Hope Date Book
Be a part of the revolution with these upcoming events
City of Hope Expo
29 September–31 October
With attendees from all over the world, this is a showcase of new innovations in the City of Hope. Highlights include a smart-living experiential centre, product launches and a music festival.
M Tower Launch
16 September
The launch of this stylish tower will see celebrity co-designer Michelle Reis in attendance from Hong Kong
Fuji Autumn Matsuri
13 September–8 October
Soak up the charms of Japan, with food, retail, shopping and a celebratory atmosphere.
The Bountiful Harvest of Baiyue
22 September–22 October
Catch this dazzling acrobatic show by the renowned Guangxi Acrobatic Troupe.
Learn more about City of Hope Expo at shengtaiinternational.com, calling +60 11-3737 3399 or follow City of Hope at Melaka on Facebook or @cohex_23 on Instagram.
