Sutera@Mantanani — Hotel in Pulau Mantanani Besar

I recently visited Sutera Mantanani and would like to share some constructive feedback. Overall, the place serves its purpose, but there are a few areas that could use improvement.

Jetty; In terms of toilet facilities, there was no water supply at the time. I spoke to one of the staff members, who explained the situation professionally and mentioned that they were experiencing water shortages. I completely understand that such issues can happen, especially given how slow the local authorities can be in addressing water problems. However, I hope the management can consider setting up water tanks or an alternative backup system to ensure basic facilities remain usable when these situations arise.

Cleanliness around the waiting area was generally okay, but we did notice some animal droppings that could be cleaned more frequently. Parking was sufficient, though the area could benefit from a bit of tidying up to make the place look more welcoming and presentable.

Island - Rooms: As for the room, it was clean and everything was well-prepared upon check-in, which we truly appreciated. However, the main area of the room felt a bit dim, the lighting was stronger only around the toilet and bed area. While we didn’t mind using natural light during the day, it became a bit inconvenient when dressing up since we preferred keeping the curtains closed for privacy. Adding brighter or adjustable lighting in the main area would really enhance the overall comfort of the stay.

Island - Surroundings: The beach itself was beautiful, with soft sand and ever-changing blue hues of the ocean, truly a stunning view. However, we did notice a couple of glass bottle shards stuck in the sand. We’re not sure how they got there, but it could pose a risk to guests who might not be paying close attention. If the area is under maintenance or construction, it would be helpful for management to place proper signage or temporary barriers to warn visitors of potential hazards.

Island - F&B: I understand that, given the location and logistical challenges, the menu options are understandably limited. I’m not a particularly picky eater, and I truly appreciate the effort and dedication shown by the kitchen team. The spring rolls were delightful; crispy and flavourful, and the chicken dish was fairly good. However, the beef burger could benefit from a bit more seasoning to enhance its overall taste. I shared this feedback with one of the F&B staff (I didn’t catch her name, but she was wearing a tudung), and she received it with such grace and professionalism. Her pleasant attitude and willingness to listen left a very positive impression, and I genuinely appreciate that level of service.

Island - Facilities: We didn’t plan on doing much in terms of physical activities, as our main goal was simply to relax and unwind by the beach and we definitely managed to do that. We had a great time riding the ATV; the area provided was spacious and safe, making the experience both fun and comfortable. I also want to highlight the sports and recreation staff who assisted us, he was very friendly and informative (I wish I remembered his name to give proper credit).

We also joined the batik coloring session, which turned out to be a wonderfully calming activity. The combination of painting, the sound of the ocean, and the surrounding nature made the whole experience even more enjoyable and relaxing.

We did notice that some of the lounging chairs by the beach could use a bit of fixing up, as the rattan on a few of them looked torn. It’s a minor detail, but improving that would really help maintain the resort’s overall aesthetic and comfort for guests.

Staff: A special thank you to Keny, Romeo, and a lady from the front office (I didn’t catch her name), all three were exceptionally professional from the start to the end of our stay. They were always informative, approachable, and made sure our inquiries were attended to promptly, which made a big difference to...

I have a wonderful and unforgettable trip at Sutera Mentanani, from my booking until the stay, the food, the activities, and the staff are all very impressive to me. This is the most pleasant trip I have had.

From kk to Kota Belud then to the island. We r well guided. This island is beautiful, but the ppl here are more beautiful from the bottom of their heart. I saw them laugh, sing, they play the guitar during their leisure time. When assisting us, The receptionist, housekeeping staff, restaurant staff, boat crews, and the diving instructor are always full of smiles.

When we went snorkelling, I and my husband were barefoot..haha.. but the short pathway to the boat is super duper hot. The boat crew were laugh at us and make sure we run into the boat just in case our feet burnt😅. I was ready to run, but my heart is warmed by the crew. He borrows me his slipper and asks my husband to run😆😆 its real touch and sweet for their little care. I ask for a rubber band at the counter before snorkelling, it is ok if they don't have one, but the receptionist was so kind, she couldn't find one, but took 1 hair band from her bag to me. I have many many thanks because they try to fulfil my tiny request. I stay here 3d2n, on my second-day dinner at the restaurant, the staff in the restaurant remember me before I mention my room number. Wow... how great she is... there were so many guests in and out but I'm glad that she remember me. To travel box, Mr Bonny, Mr Adi and the diver team.. they r wonderful. We signed up leisure dive package for non-diver, Mr Adi and his partner ( sorry I forgot his name) taught us and brought us to dive. They make sure we are ready before getting into the water and we have an awesome experience under the water, we took plenty of photos with Nemo too. Adi is not only our diving instructor but also our photographer..indeed, he is patient and great. He loves music and can sing. If u like music must look for him to enjoy together.

It is our wedding anniversary. I'm glad that we choose Sutera mentanani and took up their honeymoon package. The sky, the mountain, the sea, the beach and the natural insect sound calm our minds... The activities we have here, are diving, snorkelling, ATV, kayaking, swing, Bali Bali spa massage, candlelight dinner, breakfast in the room, and we got a souvenir gift from the travel box and Bali-Bali spa massage. Appreciate a lot and we love it!

Oh, don't forget to register for the sunset cruise too. Rm16 per pax. Abt 1.5hr session. But it is worth more than Rm16. They bring us to a small tiny island with a good view of the sunset. We took thousands of photos AGAIN.. like modelling😅😅 its too beautiful... with the sunset...

If wanna talk abt the down part, as the previous guest commented, the beach is still with lots of bottles and woods.. but I am also impressed because there r workers with tractors to swipe away the rubbish at the beach every day, they also scoop away the woods... I'm sure the beach needs to maintain beach cleanliness all the time, but they can't avoid it and I believe the rubbish is not from the tourist but the kampung on this island... The second down part is the drone is under maintanence, it is not available during our stay.

The room is comfortable and well maintained. The rotan chairs on the beach are also in good condition, can relax and have a short nap in this quiet and calm place. Surprisingly we don't meet mosquitoes 'fren' like on other beaches too.

For makan, serve in buffet style. we eat until puas puas.. every meal with free flow of coffee and tea too. The food is fresh and delicious!!

I thank God for the good weather during our stay. It is our luck with good weather. The staff here told us, boat time may delay if bad weather. Snorkelling also may cancel too for safety purposes. So if u plan to take a flight after the trip, do consider giving some time allowance...

It's a lovely island and the cabins are well- furnished and comfortable. But I have some messages for Sutera Magellan hotel management, if they can be bothered to listen:

1. Employ more local people. I was told: "they don't know hospitality and can't speak English". Teach them! Your staff drafted in from KK don't want to be there, and it shows. Service is surly with a smile, with a few shining exceptions.

2. Your noisy quadbikes for hire are completely wrong on a small island which people visit for peace and quiet. I was told: "This is what customers want". Oh really? A few maybe, but they spoil the pleasure of the many. Why not instead provide some dinghies to sail off the beach? You would need a safety boat, but your watersports staff are competent and enthusiastic. (and btw are they locals?)

3. Guests have no escape, so must endure your very boring restaurant. The menu is totally unimaginative. Frozen meat from Oz, farmed salmon from Norway? In a 5* resort, I would expect fresh-caught local fish and lobster. I was told: "local fisherfolk ask too high a price". Oh really? I suspect your corporate policy is to truck in cheap frozen food from KK, and just chuck it in the deep-fat fryer. Mind you, the staff were so very "helpful" and suggested I buy fish in the village, which the kitchen would cook, for a large fee presumably. But here's a novel idea for you. Why not set up a beach bbq? And give your island chefs the authority to buy in local fresh fish and shellfish. What do you think? Might be fun, and profitable!

4. Customer care starts at the top. If you don't care, that sets the tone amongst staff.

Example #1 ...... on arrival, I paid reception to upgrade. I was then told to "take a seat for 30 minutes", for room cleaning. Oh really? Well ok, please give me the key now and I will drop my bag in the room and go on the beach. A receptionist reluctantly took me to the room, and lo and behold, it was ready! "Oh housekeeping didn't inform us". She couldn't be bothered to check? I asked if eggs were available at breakfast. "I don't know, ask the kitchen staff."

Example #2 ...... The electricity failed in my bungalow. Your technician came quickly and replaced the faulty kettle which had tripped out the power. Later, I came in from a walk to shiver in a cold shower - no power again. Your receptionist explained the generator had been turned off. "All guests were informed." Not me - I was on a walk. Clearly, it's MY fault for not waiting by the phone!

Example #3...... on departure, we were stranded on your mainland jetty for an hour, without so much as a cup of tea. Your staff knew the bus was running late from KK. So why hustle everyone on to the the boat? And here's a thought: why not offer guests a soothing drink after their bumpy sea crossing? I asked for a cafe and was told: "It is under renovation." Oh really?

I could go on, but that's enough. You may be concerned to know guests amused ourselves by exchanging views on the disappointing inadequacies of your resort. Most were glad...