The Banjaran Hotsprings Retreat has announced the appointment of Lisa Jackson as its new General Manager, ushering in a new phase for one of Malaysia’s leading luxury wellness resorts.

Nestled among the ancient limestone hills and geothermal hot springs of Ipoh, the award-winning retreat is widely recognised for its immersive wellness experiences, luxury pool villas and nature-inspired setting.

Jackson brings more than two decades of experience in the luxury hospitality industry, having held leadership roles across Africa and Asia. Her expertise spans resort operations, commercial strategy, financial management and guest experience.

Before joining The Banjaran Hotsprings Retreat, she served as Resort Manager at the 117-key Anantara Desaru Coast Resort & Villas. She began her hospitality career in South Africa as a revenue manager before joining Minor Hotels in 2018 as Cluster Director of Revenue Management, overseeing three luxury resorts in Zambia and Mozambique.

In 2021, Jackson was promoted to Hotel Manager within Anantara. Two years later, she became General Manager of Elewana Kilindi Zanzibar, part of the Minor Hotels portfolio, where she led a resort refurbishment while expanding wellness programmes and enhancing the property’s personalised butler service.

As General Manager, Jackson will oversee the continued growth of The Banjaran Hotsprings Retreat, helping strengthen its position as one of the country’s most sought-after luxury wellness destinations.

“We are delighted to welcome Lisa to The Banjaran Hotsprings Retreat, and the Sunway Hospitality Group family,” Sunway chief executive officer Alex Castaldi said. “Her career reflects a strong progression through commercial and operational leadership, underpinned by her commitment to service excellence and her ability to inspire high-performing teams.”

“It is a true honour to have been appointed General Manager of this exceptional resort,” Jackson said. “I am deeply passionate about wellness and understand how luxury travellers crave one-of-a-kind experiences that allow them to step away from the pace of urban life and reconnect with nature.”

The appointment comes as the resort continues to receive international recognition. The Banjaran Hotsprings Retreat was named Malaysia’s No. 1 Best Hotel Spa in the Travel + Leisure Luxury Awards Asia Pacific 2026 for the third consecutive year. It was also recognised as the No. 2 Best Beach, Island & Upcountry Resort in Malaysia.

Spread across 22.7 acres, The Banjaran Hotsprings Retreat is surrounded by dramatic limestone cliffs, natural geothermal hot springs and lush rainforest, offering guests one of Malaysia’s most distinctive luxury stays. The resort features elegant pool villas, natural healing hot springs, meditation spaces, forest trails and secluded caves designed for relaxation and wellbeing.

It is also home to Jeff’s Cellar, one of Malaysia’s most celebrated fine-dining restaurants. Set inside a centuries-old limestone cave, the restaurant offers an unforgettable dining experience in a naturally illuminated cavern, making it a highlight for both resort guests and culinary enthusiasts.

With Lisa Jackson at the helm, The Banjaran Hotsprings Retreat is set to build on its reputation as one of Malaysia’s premier luxury wellness resorts, offering exceptional hospitality, world-class wellness experiences and unforgettable stays in the heart of Ipoh.

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