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SINGAPORE, Sept. 20, 2025 – H World Group Limited (NASDAQ: HTHT; HK: 01179), is making a calculated expansion play in Southeast Asia, announcing the addition of three new JI Hotels in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, and Phnom Penh, Cambodia. This move not only marks H World’s debut in the Malaysian market but also solidifies JI Hotel’s footprint in Southeast Asia, a region increasingly vital for global hospitality groups.
Murphy Zhu, President of H World Asia Pacific, emphasized the strategic importance of this expansion. “Introducing JI Hotel to Malaysia and deepening our presence in Cambodia allows us to extend the reach of one of our flagship brands,” Zhu stated. “But it’s more than just brand recognition. We’re bringing H World’s complete ecosystem – supply chain efficiencies, development expertise, and robust digital capabilities – to empower our partners across Southeast Asia.”
The move comes as Southeast Asia’s hospitality sector witnesses a surge in demand, fueled by both business and leisure travel. Industry analysts point to the region’s growing middle class and strategic geographic location as drivers for continued growth. However, the market is also becoming increasingly competitive, with established international players and domestic brands vying for market share.
The first Malaysian property, JI Hotel Downtown Kuala Lumpur, is slated to open in Q4 2026. This 101-room hotel, developed in collaboration with Saadiq Tri Venture, will be located in Kuala Lumpur’s Dang Wangi district and will showcase JI Hotel’s latest 5.0 design, blending oriental aesthetics with modern amenities.
Yang Shengwu, Chairman of Saadiq Tri Venture, highlighted the confidence in the partnership: “We recognize the proven success of the JI Hotel brand and are committed to delivering high-quality, value-driven hospitality to Kuala Lumpur.”
In Phnom Penh, H World is developing two JI Hotels: JI Hotel Phnom Penh City Center, a 130-room conversion project expected to open in Q2 2026, and JI Hotel Phnom Penh Mekong Riverside, a new-build 110-room hotel with views of the Mekong River, scheduled for Q3 2026.
Investors in the Cambodian projects are optimistic about the market potential. Liu Guangyu, investor of JI Hotel Phnom Penh Central, noted the growing demand for midscale and upper-midscale business accommodations in Phnom Penh. Seng Leng, investor of JI Hotel Phnom Penh Mekong Riverside, stated that the hotel aims to create a distinctive stay experience that reshapes Phnom Penh’s hospitality landscape.
This Southeast Asian expansion is part of a broader strategy for H World, following expansions into Laos and the introduction of the Steigenberger brand in Cambodia earlier this year. The focus is on developing a portfolio that balances standardization with localization, leveraging H World’s global resources while adapting to the specific needs and preferences of each market.
The announcement also coincides with the sixth anniversary of JI Hotel Orchard Road Singapore, JI Hotel’s first overseas property. A success story within H World’s portfolio, the Singapore property has demonstrated the company’s ability to scale a recognizable hotel brand, as well as adapt mature operational capabilities in international markets.
Looking ahead, Zhu reaffirmed H World’s commitment to strategic growth in Asia Pacific. “We are committed to enhancing the global influence and competitiveness of Chinese hotel brands,” Zhu stated. “Our long-term vision is to establish a prominent benchmark, originating from the East, within the global hospitality arena.”
About H World Group Limited
Headquartered in China, H World Group Limited (NASDAQ: HTHT; HK: 01179) is a leading global hospitality company with a diversified portfolio including Steigenberger Icons, Steigenberger Hotels & Resorts, MAXX, HanTing, JI Hotel, Crystal Orange Hotel, among others. The Group emphasizes asset-light operations, digital innovation, and strategic brand development to drive sustainable international growth.
For more information, please visit H World’s website: https://ir.hworld.com
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