Andy Goh's passion for Asia is palpable. The founder and CEO of hospitality brand R+ has dedicated the past two decades to exploring the continent. Reflecting on his journey, Goh says: "My early beginnings showed me the united front of Asia in terms of its vibrancy, richness and connectivity. Many people look beyond our region, but there are so many treasures in this part of the world still waiting to be uncovered."
When we meet Goh for this interview, he had just returned from a spontaneous trip to Medan in Indonesia, which he chose as a destination on a whim just days before. This adventurous spirit not only deepens his love of the region, but also fuels his vision for R+. He seeks to embody the brand's ethos of providing "rare, respectful and reciprocal" experiences through luxury retreats comprising modular container units to create exclusive experiences in off-grid settings.
Formerly the CEO for emerging markets at Ong&Ong, one of Singapore's largest architecture and engineering firms, Goh has extensive experience across Asia, having set up offices in Myanmar and Thailand. Beyond his work as an architect, he has expanded his expertise into real estate development. After leaving Ong&Ong, he established White Matter Design Studio, blending design and engineering. Currently, he leads Jonah Journeys as CEO, focusing on Asian emerging markets and overseeing R+, and is managing director of Landform Development Consultancy, offering advisory services to real estate developers.
His work, including the award-winning Padi Hotel (also known as R+ Skun) and contributions as project director of notable resorts in Phuket, Taiwan and Indonesia, has been recognised with accolades from the International Property Awards, highlighting his impact on hotel architecture and development in the Asia-Pacific region.
This story is from the {{IssueName}} edition of {{MagazineName}}.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the {{IssueName}} edition of {{MagazineName}}.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
Mathew Leong
As the Norway-based Singaporean chef celebrates a milestone year both personally and professionally, he opens up about the toughest moments of his career and why failing is not an option
Asian Inspirations
Chef Ace Tan on his second restaurant, Asu-his love letter to regional Asian cuisine
State of the Arts
Arts nominated member of parliament Usha Chandradas discusses growing the creative economy by focusing on both supply and demand
Through a Curator's Lens
Circe Henestrosa, a fashion curator and the head of the School of Fashion at Lasalle College of the Arts, University of the Arts Singapore, merges her personal connection with artist Frida Kahlo with her extensive curatorial experience to explore intersecting themes of identity, disability and cultural heritage
Second Nature
Poet and educator Yong Shu Hoong brings fresh perspectives to the helm of the Singapore Writers Festival, from interdisciplinary perspectives to multilingual programmes
Wine Down
Nothing wraps up the day like a nice glass of vino. From flashy hedonistic escapades to geeky watering holes, these new wine bars promise celebrated viniferous pours that will please even the most discerning of oenophiles
A Legacy in Silhouettes
Kristina Blahnik, CEO of the designer shoe brand Manolo Blahnik and the niece of its legendary founder, shares her insights on preserving the house's heritage and introduces the new Manolo's Silhouettes campaign
To Have and to Hold
With its sumptuous textures, Loro Piana's elegant autumn/winter 2024 collection is a chic celebration of craft, quality and the universal appeal of tactility
Scent of Strength
Hermès unveils its first chypre perfume, Barénia―a captivating fragrance crafted by renowned perfumer Christine Nagel that embodies bold femininity and celebrates the brand's rich heritage
Nocturnal Revival
Nighttime skincare rituals will get a boost of supercharged restoration with La Mer's new Rejuvenating Night Cream