As Singapore delays the second phase of its Integrated Resort bidding process, to allow more time to study issues raised, in neighbouring Malaysia the Genting Highlands Resort is refurbishing its image in order to compete. The world-famous hilltop resort is seeking to broaden its appeal and become a destination resort attractive to young and old alike. At present the casino resort has a theme park, retail outlets and spa plus around 90 restaurants encompassing a huge range of menus from fast food to silver service dining.

The future of Genting Highlands is seen as an ability to provide diverse entertainment options, over and above the attractions on offer at Las Vegas and Macau. Visitor numbers are good, 17.4 million in 2004 not including daytrips, but the hilltop resort faces increasing competition from Macau and newly opened Hong Kong Disneyland for its 400,000 annual Chinese tourists. Perhaps Genting’s greatest asset is its location – in the beautiful Malaysian highlands.

One of the longest cable cars in Asia carries passengers above the rain forest almost three and a half kilometres to the casino resort. The theme park provides the latest rides, including the popular Sky Venture where simulated skydiving creates winds that rival hurricane force at 190 km/h. Most nights of the week there are live performances from performers popular in the east and the west. The Arena of Stars seats 6,000 and musicals from the West End and Broadway are staged.

In the 60s Genting Highlands was initially a retirement resort that surprisingly was granted a casino licence by the Malaysian government. Traditionally it was associated with a staid image of middle-aged gamblers but more recently has gained a reputation as a ‘city of entertainment’ catering also for non-gamblers. At just three-quarters of an hour distance from the capital Kuala Lumpur to the cable car station, the resort is ideally positioned for day trips. The location, 2,000 metres above sea level, makes it an ideal place to stay. Like the company that runs it, Genting Bhd, the Highlands Resort is moving with the times. (E-09.29.05)

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