Banyan Group and Mandai Wildlife Group celebrated a significant milestone on 26 November with the grand opening of the Mandai Rainforest Resort by Banyan Tree. The event, officiated by President Tharman Shanmugaratnam, also marked the launch of the inaugural Rainforest Festival, which opens to the public today.
Situated in the Mandai Wildlife Reserve, the resort is Banyan Group’s 100th and its first within a major wildlife and nature destination in a capital city. The opening ceremony featured a musical prelude by Wolfgang Violin Studio and a guided tour showcasing the resort’s sustainable design and biodiversity corridors. Attendees previewed the Rainforest Festival, which includes the Discovery Trail, Banyan Gallery Showcase, and the GREEN-HOUSE HangOut market.
The festival, running from 27 November to 3 December, offers discovery trails, artisanal crafts, and wellbeing sessions. Proceeds from ticket sales will support the President’s Challenge, with Banyan Group matching donations dollar-for-dollar. Additional contributions will come from paid experiences and merchandise sales, further supported by the SG60 Matching Grants.
The event concluded with an appreciation dinner featuring performances by local artists, including Min Lee and MICappella. The festival promises a diverse programme, with activities such as yoga, nature walks, and creative workshops, aiming to engage visitors of all ages.
The Mandai Rainforest Resort also introduces a Silver Staycation for seniors, offering special rates and amenities until April 2026. This initiative, alongside the festival, underscores Banyan Group’s commitment to sustainable tourism and community support.