The Inspiring Story of Genting Malaysia: From Jungle Hills to Global Hospitality Giant

Introduction

When we think of luxury resorts, world-class casinos, and iconic mountaintop getaways in Malaysia, one name stands out — Genting Malaysia. More than just a brand, Genting Malaysia represents ambition, innovation, and resilience. From its humble beginnings in the 1960s to becoming a global powerhouse in hospitality and gaming, the story of Genting Malaysia is nothing short of extraordinary.

This article explores the history, vision, and global impact of Genting Malaysia — a brand that continues to shape the tourism landscape of Southeast Asia and beyond.

The Visionary Behind the Brand: Tan Sri Lim Goh Tong

The story of Genting Malaysia begins with Tan Sri Lim Goh Tong, a visionary entrepreneur from China who migrated to Malaysia. In the early 1960s, while working on a hydroelectric project near Cameron Highlands, he had an audacious idea: to build a mountain resort in a cool climate, close to Kuala Lumpur.

At that time, it was considered impossible. The proposed location — Gunung Ulu Kali near Gohtong Jaya — was undeveloped jungle terrain with no roads, infrastructure, or electricity. Most investors thought it was too risky, but Lim Goh Tong believed in his vision and invested his personal savings to make it a reality.

Building a Resort in the Clouds

Construction began in 1965, and it was a massive undertaking. Roads had to be carved through steep hills, buildings erected at high altitude, and basic utilities installed from scratch. Thousands of workers and engineers worked tirelessly under Lim’s leadership.

In 1971, Genting Highlands Resort officially opened its doors. It included Malaysia’s first and only legal land-based casino, making it a one-of-a-kind destination. The combination of cool weather, entertainment, and gaming made Genting Highlands an instant success.

Establishing Genting Malaysia Berhad

To streamline operations and expand its business portfolio, Genting Malaysia Berhad was incorporated in 1980 as the hospitality and leisure arm of the larger Genting Group. The company took over management of the resort and began expanding aggressively.

Over the decades, Genting Malaysia added:

• Multiple hotels such as First World Hotel (once the largest hotel in the world by rooms)
  
  
• Theme parks, including the new Genting SkyWorlds
  
  
• Shopping malls, dining experiences, and live entertainment venues
  
  
• An efficient cable car system (Awana Skyway and Genting Skyway)
  
  

The resort transformed into a fully integrated entertainment city — often referred to as “Las Vegas of Malaysia.”

International Expansion

Genting Malaysia didn’t stop at the mountaintop. In the 2000s, the company began venturing abroad. It acquired and operated gaming properties in:

• United Kingdom – Over 40 casinos under Genting UK
  
  
• United States – Resorts World New York City, the only casino in NYC
  
  
• Bahamas – Resorts World Bimini, a beachside luxury resort
  
  
• Egypt – Nile Cruise casino operations
  
  

These strategic investments helped Genting Malaysia diversify its revenue sources and establish itself as a major global casino and hospitality operator.

The Genting SkyWorlds Theme Park and Modern Reinvention

In recent years, Genting Malaysia has shifted focus toward family-friendly, non-gaming attractions to broaden its market. The latest highlight is the Genting SkyWorlds Theme Park, launched in 2022. The park features world-class rides and attractions, and is part of the Resorts World Genting masterplan to transform the resort into a full-scale international holiday destination.

Additionally, Genting Malaysia has invested in digital transformation, integrating contactless check-ins, app-based bookings, and AI-driven customer service to meet the needs of modern travelers.

Economic and Social Impact

Genting Malaysia is one of the largest employers in the Malaysian tourism sector. It has created thousands of jobs, boosted tourism, and generated substantial tax revenue for the country.

Key impacts include:

• Major contributor to Malaysia’s GDP through tourism and gaming
  
  
• Collaboration with local SMEs and service providers
  
  
• Development of surrounding areas like Gohtong Jaya and Batang Kali
  
  
• Support for education, health, and cultural programs through Genting Foundation
  
  

Sustainability and Corporate Governance

Genting Malaysia has also committed to sustainable practices. From waste management to energy conservation, the company is aligning with global ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) standards. It publishes regular Sustainability Reports, showcasing efforts in:

• Reducing carbon footprint
  
  
• Promoting green buildings
  
  
• Encouraging responsible gaming practices
  
  
• Supporting local communities

Final Thoughts

From a dense jungle in Pahang to a global empire in the gaming and hospitality industry, Genting Malaysia’s journey is a blueprint for visionary entrepreneurship. What started as a dream by one man has become a national treasure and a symbol of what’s possible with courage, innovation, and relentless drive.

As it continues to grow both locally and globally, Genting Malaysia remains committed to delivering world-class experiences while shaping the future of leisure and entertainment.