AsiaOne reported that Yip shared the update in an interview with HK01 published on April 2, saying the project has been delayed to allow for further refinements as she works to elevate the hotel to a top-tier standard.

"I'm very happy. Operating a hotel is a long-term endeavor that requires a lot of time and learning," she said. "We initially have plans to open the hotel this year, but we want to make it better and improve on the design. I hope to make it five stars."

Singapore and Malaysia," Neo

According to The Star, Yip first revealed plans for the hotel in December 2024 as part of a broader effort to develop four properties in Penang. She sees the project as both a business venture and a cultural showcase, celebrating a fruit beloved across Southeast Asia while attracting international interest.

Singaporean filmmaker Jack Neo has taken on the role of creative director. He previously said he aims to incorporate elements from his comedy film "The King of Musang King" into the hotel's overall design.

King of Musang

"Durian is not just a fruit, but a symbol of the memories and emotions shared between the people of Singapore and Malaysia," Neo said. "I hope to convey this deep emotional heritage to visitors from all over the world through this durian-themed hotel."

The durian-themed hotel is reportedly being developed at the site of the former Towne House Hotel. Its design will reflect the distinctive characteristics of the durian, with architectural features inspired by the fruit's spiky exterior and interior elements, such as lighting, echoing its form.

The part worth remembering

Guests can expect a range of themed experiences, including a durian-focused restaurant serving inventive dishes such as hot pot, coffee, and ice cream infused with the fruit. The hotel will also offer cultural exhibitions and farm visits, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the region's durian heritage.

Yip previously launched the boutique hotel The Leith in Penang in September 2024.

What you need to know

Now 60, Yip began her career in entertainment as a trainee with Asia Television before signing a two-year contract in 1985. Her breakthrough came with the 1990 Category III film "Erotic Ghost Story."

She retired from acting in 1997, citing a lack of memorable roles. Following the death of her longtime boyfriend, orthopedic surgeon Dr. Sammy Sek Chiu Lui, in 2018, Yip has kept her personal life largely out of the public eye.

I'm very happy. Operating a hotel is a long-term endeavor that requires a lot of time and learning.

Reading the wider picture

Location, rent and staffing shape restaurant stories long before the food does, and the operators who last are the ones who plan around all three.

What to remember

  • AsiaOne reported that Yip shared the update in an interview with HK01 published on April 2, saying the project has been delayed to allow for further refinements as she works to elevate the hotel to a top-tier standard
  • According to The Star, Yip first revealed plans for the hotel in December 2024 as part of a broader effort to develop four properties in Penang
  • Singaporean filmmaker Jack Neo has taken on the role of creative director
  • "Durian is not just a fruit, but a symbol of the memories and emotions shared between the people of Singapore and Malaysia," Neo said
  • The durian-themed hotel is reportedly being developed at the site of the former Towne House Hotel

By the numbers

  • Yip previously launched the boutique hotel The Leith in Penang in September 2024
  • 60, Yip began her career in entertainment as a trainee with Asia Television before signing a two-year contract in 1985
  • Her breakthrough came with the 1990 Category III film "Erotic Ghost Story."
  • She retired from acting in 1997, citing a lack of memorable roles
  • Sammy Sek Chiu Lui, in 2018, Yip has kept her personal life largely out of the public eye

All told

Every change in the dining room eventually reaches the same test, which is whether people keep choosing it once the novelty has worn off.