Chinese hotel group Jin Jiang Hotels (China Region) has signed a cooperation agreement with Malaysia’s Riyaz Group to accelerate Southeast Asia expansion. The deal includes plans to develop over 180 hotels across Malaysia, Indonesia, Vietnam, Laos, Cambodia, and the Philippines within five years. As part of the partnership, Riyaz established RJJ Hotels, which signed 11 management agreements and MOUs with regional hotel owners. Initial projects will launch in Kuala Lumpur, Langkawi, Penang, Kuching, Kuala Terengganu, and Luang Prabang, where Jin Jiang Metropolo Luang Prabang is set to open early next year. Jin Jiang Hotels is Asia’s largest hotel group.