The OE Resort, envisioned as Malaysia’s top team-building resort, had been developed with an investment of RM30 million. Its grand opening ceremony took place on Sunday, December 8th, at 5 PM. The event was open to the public, free of charge, and featured spectacular performances, including a 101-drum ensemble, lion and dragon dances, and fireworks.
Miss Tourism International from 50 Countries Attended
A highlight of the event was the attendance of Miss Tourism International contestants from 50 countries. Visitors had the opportunity to witness the elegance and charm of these international beauty queens in person, adding vibrancy to the celebration.
Natural Setting and Unique Facilities
Situated in Mantin, Negeri Sembilan, OE Resort spanned nine acres and had been designed over three years by Dato’ Wira Calvin Khiu, founder and chairman of the OE Young Entrepreneurs Academy. The site, formerly a durian orchard, had been transformed into a serene retreat surrounded by lush greenery, blending harmoniously with its natural environment.
The resort offered a variety of accommodation options, including space-themed pods, A-frame cabins, and Japanese-inspired hillside villas, accommodating up to 200 guests at a time. Its facilities included a forest pool, themed restaurants, a conference hall, viewing platforms, and spa services, providing visitors with a comprehensive experience.
Outdoor Activities for Recreation and Team Building
Complementing its serene ambiance, OE Resort featured a wide range of outdoor activities, such as zip-lining (Flying Fox), water volleyball, beach soccer, and hiking. These activities provided recreation and fostered team-building experiences. The resort welcomed individuals, couples, families, and corporate team-building bookings.
Youth Development and Leadership Programs
The OE Young Entrepreneurs Academy had recently introduced the Youth CEO Training Course to unlock children’s potential, build confidence, and enhance public speaking skills. Calvin Khiu emphasized the importance of mastering stage presence at a young age, helping children overcome stage fear and prepare for future success in various fields.
The academy had also launched the “Program 3 Cinta” initiative, offering free talks to schools, universities, and organizations in Negeri Sembilan. Focused on patriotism, family values, and self-love, the program addressed issues like familial conflicts and mental health through motivational case studies, promoting positive thinking and emotional resilience.
Patriotism and Values
Calvin Khiu believed in instilling patriotism from a young age, distinguishing between a government and a nation. He highlighted that poor government performance did not reflect a country’s worth. The program also emphasized self-acceptance and gratitude, encouraging individuals to adopt a healthier outlook on life despite challenges or pressures.
Knowledge Sharing and Community Engagement
In alignment with its mission to promote learning, the OE Academy had launched the OG Plan, an educational platform providing free content and lectures. The platform allowed students to access expert-led modules, while a paid subscription service at RM1 per day offered over 300 audiobooks, with 100 new titles added annually.
Future Developments and Economic Contributions
The first phase of OE Resort had been completed, with plans underway to construct a 1,000-person conference hall on the remaining land. This expansion aimed to meet growing market demand for large event spaces. During its three years of trial operations, the resort had attracted an average of 5,000 monthly visitors, significantly contributing to the local economy in Nilai and Mantin.
Tourism-Education Integration
Calvin Khiu envisioned OE Resort as a model for integrating tourism and education, a trend gaining traction globally. The resort’s tranquil environment was designed to enhance focus and productivity during training programs. It also served as a permanent base for OE Academy events, eliminating the need for external venue rentals.
Promoting Negeri Sembilan Tourism
The resort hosted the Miss Tourism International contestants, showcasing Mantin’s beauty to an international audience. This initiative elevated Negeri Sembilan’s reputation as a tourism destination, highlighting its natural and cultural charm. The resort’s strategic location near the Kajang-Seremban Highway enhanced its accessibility and appeal.
A Personal Connection to Nilai
Calvin Khiu expressed a personal connection to Nilai, where he had achieved his first major business success. His dedication to the community was reflected in his commitment to fostering development in the area as a way of giving back. He aimed to promote Mantin and Nilai as desirable destinations for tourism and investment.
Economic and Social Impact
During its trial operations, the resort had brought over 60,000 visitors annually to the area, boosting local businesses, including factories, property developments, and restaurants. Calvin Khiu believed that increased awareness of Mantin and Nilai’s proximity to the Klang Valley would further drive tourism and economic growth.
A Bright Future for OE Resort
The resort planned to unveil its theme song, “Accompany Me Through the World,” during the grand opening, marking another milestone in OE Resort’s journey toward becoming a key contributor to Negeri Sembilan’s tourism and educational development.
