The spotlight is now on a monumental real estate project in Malaysia, as Ismail, the Regent of Johor (ROJ) and eldest son of King Ibrahim Iskandar, taps Singapore-based RSP Architects, Planners and Engineers—owned by billionaire Peter Lim—to design a sprawling waterfront estate. This project will serve as the royal family’s private residence in the coastal town of Desaru, southeastern Malaysia, and represents a rare collaboration between two prominent families with a history of mutual respect and shared interests.
“This collaboration carries special meaning, shaped by years of mutual respect and understanding between our families,” said Kiat Lim, 32, chairman of RSP and son of healthcare tycoon Peter Lim. “To help bring such a significant and personal estate to life on this iconic stretch of coastline is a rare privilege.”
Scope and Features of the Royal Estate
The estate, with an estimated cost exceeding $200 million, will span 27 hectares of the royal family’s property. Construction is projected to take approximately four years. Beyond the primary royal villa, the estate will include guest houses, a kids’ club, and sporting facilities, along with an underground shooting range and armory capable of accommodating up to 100 soldiers tasked with the ROJ’s security.
“This residence is more than a home,” said Ismail, 41. “It’s a reflection of family, heritage, and partnership. The collaboration with RSP is built not just on design excellence, but on the close family relationship I’ve shared with Kiat and his father.” Their shared passion for football strengthens the bond: Kiat Lim heads Spanish football club Valencia, while Ismail serves as president of the Football Association of Malaysia.
Strategic Land Holdings and Development
The ROJ manages vast land holdings in the Iskandar region, a southern Malaysian economic hub jointly developed with Singapore. As overseer of his family’s heritage properties, he actively directs projects that align with long-term strategic goals.
In a notable land move this June, the ROJ agreed to exchange 13 hectares of family land near the Singapore Botanic Gardens for 8.5 hectares of state land of equivalent value. The Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA) confirmed the swap would allow the ROJ’s planned developments, including the estate, to be positioned further from the Botanic Gardens.
RSP’s Global Expertise
RSP Architects, Planners and Engineers brings significant international experience to the royal estate project. Past projects include the Jewel at Changi Airport (in collaboration with Safdie Architects) and the Armani Hotel & Residences Diriyah in Saudi Arabia. The firm’s revenue is expected to exceed S$100 million this year, up from S$92 million in 2024.
Peter Lim, with a net worth of approximately $1.8 billion, is among Singapore’s wealthiest, with stakes in Thomson Medical and Valencia football club. His firm’s involvement ensures that the estate will combine world-class design with personal touches reflecting the ROJ family’s heritage and vision.
Significance of the Desaru Estate
The Desaru estate is not just a residence; it is a statement of legacy, partnership, and architectural excellence. With its comprehensive amenities, expansive grounds, and high-security features, it will serve as a private haven for the royal family while demonstrating RSP’s ability to deliver high-profile, complex developments.
This collaboration underscores a trend where prominent families and global design firms are working closely to craft estates that balance heritage, security, and modern luxury. The project will likely stand as one of the most prestigious and meticulously designed royal estates in Southeast Asia.
