JOHOR BARU, Sept 16 — As the excitement builds for the Formula One Singapore Grand Prix scheduled for September 20 to 22, Malaysian hotels in Johor are gearing up for a substantial boom in business.

The Malaysian Association of Hotels (MAH) Johor chapter chairman, Ivan Teo, expressed optimism about the increased bookings expected during this high-profile weekend.

Teo highlighted that many hotel members in Johor already experience robust occupancy rates on weekends, primarily attracting visitors from Singapore and various foreign tour groups.

However, the upcoming Grand Prix is set to drive demand to unprecedented levels, leading to a near sell-out of hotel rooms in the region.

“Visitors traveling for the Formula One weekend will add to our existing clientele, creating a significant impact on hotel occupancy. We’re confident that many hotels will be fully booked,” Teo shared with Malay Mail.

On the other side of the Causeway, Singapore’s hotel market is buzzing with activity as demand for accommodations near the Grand Prix circuit has surged, causing room prices to skyrocket.

Some premium hotels have reported rooms reserved up to a year in advance, with rates soaring as high as RM18,000 per night for the most luxurious options.

Despite the soaring prices in Singapore, Teo reassured potential guests that Johor Baru's hotel rates will remain much more affordable.

“In Johor Baru, we have a variety of accommodations available, even beyond the city center,” he noted, indicating that visitors will find competitive rates as they seek alternatives to Singapore's high prices.

Hotels in Johor Baru, including popular establishments like Holiday Inn, Opero Southkey, St Giles Southkey, DoubleTree by Hilton, and Amari, are predicting occupancy rates exceeding 90%.

Smaller hotels are anticipating around 80% capacity, while older properties may see lower numbers.

Renaissance Johor Baru, located conveniently near the Johor Causeway, reported that it has already achieved over 70% occupancy for the Grand Prix weekend.

Hezrin Ali, the marketing and communications head of the hotel, indicated that they have strategically prepared for an influx of guests during major events like the F1.

“In addition to the F1 attendees, we also cater to our regular customers from Singapore and other international tourists.

With the tail-end of the school holiday season coinciding with the race, we expect a significant increase in our occupancy,” Hezrin stated passionately.

In conclusion, the Formula One Singapore Grand Prix is not just a racing event; it’s poised to transform the hospitality landscape in Johor Baru, positioning it as the go-to destination for F1 enthusiasts.

Will you be part of the experience? Don’t wait – secure your room before it’s too late!