DIRECTORY AEC 2016 THE MDBC APP
MAKERS & DRIVERS OF BUSINESS & COMMERCE
SPOUSE PROGRAM
2016 IS THE YEAR OF MDBC’S 20TH ANNIVERSARY!
ISSUE: 1ST EDITION 2016
We provide all you need for an effective, efficient workplace wherever and however you want. With Regus, you
really can work your way.
Regus
has options to suit any budget and any working style for you in over 24 locations in Kuala Lumpur, Selangor, Penang, Johor, Kota Kinabalu, Labuan and Brunei.
A fully-equipped, premium office well within budget?
.
Not a problem
Whether you’re opening an office, branch office, expanding into a new area, project space, satellite space, individual office, team rooms, demonstration rooms, conference room, meeting room or even for workspace recovery, Regus has a wide range of workspace solutions to suit any budget and any working style
Fully tailored – fully-equipped offices available, use only what you need, and pay for only what you use
Ultimate flexibility– book by the day, week,
month or year , absolutely flexible terms
Professional service – state-of-the-art
infrastructure voicemail, telephone lines and mail handling
Minimal risk – impressive cost savings and no capital investment
1800 881 483 / +603 2168 4300 regus.com.my Worldwide 3000 locations | 900 cities | 120 countries
Don’t need an office but someone to take care of your important calls, mails and parcels?
.
Sure
Whether you are a start-up, small business, expanding businesses opening new markets, establishing businesses extending the reach or global business moving fast. Count on Regus to make your first business impression count.
Good address – your business address on your name card and we’ll take care of the mails and parcels delivered to you
Dedicated local number – professionally answered in your company name, screening and forwarding. No more missed call and lost of opportunity.
Cost effective – low-cost, high prestige alternative to a full-time office
ES_D10317_Philips Branding AD_020514p.indd 1
2/5/14 5:42 p
Charter
Distribution
International transportation
Supply Chain Logistics
Customer Service Dangerous Goods
Air Cargo
Transport Insurance
Sea-Air Solutions Customs Clearance Value Added Services Sea Cargo
Project
Cold Chain Logistics
Own international network
SPOT - Tracking & Tracing Contract Logistics
Dynamics in Logistics ► Transports by Air, Sea, Rail, Road ► On all continents and in all seas of the globe ► 24/7 transparency all over the world ► With Accuracy. Reliability. Transparency. Passion ► Perfect Supply Chain for our customers cargo-partner Network Sdn. Bhd. (Formerly known as cargo-partner Logistics Sdn. Bhd.) Suite B610-B611, East Wing, Wisma Consplant 2 No.7, Jalan SS16/1 47500 Subang Jaya, Selangor, Malaysia Email
mykul@cargo-partner.com
Phone
+60 3 5636-2228
we take it personally
www.cargo-partner.com
CONTENTS MEMBERS
DIALOGUE
MDBC EVENTS / 11
S&O PLANNING / 31
MDBC Penang New Year Gathering MDBC New Year’s Reception Outlook 2016
MEMBERS NEWS / 17 MY SERVICES / 37 NEW MEMBERS / 38 SOCIAL / 42
BIG STORY AN INSIDE LOOK / 22 GREEN BOARD / 35
5 TRENDS IN PROPERTY INVESTMENT / 33
COMMUNITY
/22
SPOTLIGHT / 21 STUDENT INTERNSHIP PROGRAM / 25 THE MDBC SPOUSE PROGRAM / 27 EMBASSY NEWS / 29
/31 /35
MDBCONNECTS 1ST ISSUE 2016
5
frames-group.com At Frames we provide the vital link between well and pipeline. Together we design, deliver and construct separation, treatment and control & monitoring systems as well as total plant solutions and modules for the international oil and gas market. To find out more, visit frames-group.com or meet us at the Oil & Gas Asia in hall 1 at stand 1901.
“Building partnerships in Asia to find the best oil & gas solutions.� Suerd Polderdijk, General Manager Frames Asia Pacific, with Frames since 2011
Frames Asia Pacific Sdn. Bhd. Unit A-36-3, Menara UOA Bangsar 5 Jalan Bangsar Utama 1 59000, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia +60 3 22840822
THE MDBC - “SUSTAINABLE CONNECTING” Dear MDBC Members and Friends,
links and partners in the MDBC network.
The front cover of this edition of our quarterly magazine shows a picture of the launch of the MDBC Business Directory 2016-17. This was taken during our New Year’s reception at the residence of Netherlands Ambassador, H.E. Harry Molenaar, and at the beginning of MDBC’s 20th Anniversary, such a picture actually says a lot. First, we welcomed our (Founding) Patron, Tan Sri Rafidah Aziz, former Minister of International Trade & Industry (MITI) who was present at MDBC’s launch in 1996/1997. Globally, Tan Sri Rafidah is still the longest serving Minister of Trade, ever!
Third, we gave special invitations to our 4 founding member - companies (GAB, KLM, KPMG, and Shell). We have enjoyed their strong support and involvement through the years. Of course immediately following the MDBC launch in 1996, other Dutch multinationals such as Dutch Lady, Philips, TNT and Unilever also joined the Council. There have been many mutations in the membership community over these 20 years and the sustainable growth of the Council takes hard work and depends on many factors. As such, it is great that we could once again launch such a comprehensive Directory, about, for, and with our members!
Second, we were happy to have the presence of Tan Sri Dr Rebecca Fatima Sta Maria, the Secretary General of MITI, who also represented her Minister (and our other MDBC Patron, YB Dato’ Sri Mustapa Mohamed). MITI and its agencies such as MIDA, Matrade, and InvestKL, are some of the most important
When you look at the other pictures of this NY’s reception (on pages 11, 42 and 43), the positive environment of this evening is obvious. Members and guests were motivated to make this a very useful networking opportunity. This is an integral part of MDBC’s Strategy: To provide the best possible Business Services,
Representation, and Networking. During the evening, we also announced new business services initiatives, such as The Spouse Program (page 27) and the MDBC App (page 12). Making connections and providing exposure opportunities for the members and the Council will continue in full force over the coming weeks. Initiated by the Netherlands Embassy in conjunction with exhibitions and Dutch trade missions to Malaysia, there will be several sectorrelated meetings and receptions. On the MDBC side, I would like to encourage all to participate in the inaugural MDBC Connects Fair. It is time to realise the enormous value of the MDBC Membership Community - in terms of the ease of doing business within this Community, as well as the vast business development opportunities it holds. So join us on Wednesday 6 April at Parkroyal Kuala Lumpur, as an exhbitor, and / or as a participant sourcing for service providers. We look forward connecting with you! Marco Winter, Executive Director
MDBC BOARD OF DIRECTORS Mr. Zainul Rahim Mohd Zain, Chairman Hibiscus Petroleum Berhad
Ms. Barbara Voskamp Ernst & Young Solutions LLP
Mr. Jacques Hartman, Vice Chairman CEVA Logistics
Mr. Wouter van der Weijden &samhoud
Mr. Michael Brouwer, Treasurer Silverstreet Malaysia Sdn Bhd
Mr. Philip Kunjappy Sime Darby Berhad
Mr. Jurriaan Middelhoff Netherlands Embassy
Mr. Suerd Polderdijk Frames Asia Pacific Sdn Bhd
Mr. Remco Koster Woodwing Asia Pacific Sdn Bhd
Honorary Member of the Board:
Datuk Merlyn Kasimir Former CEO of Matrade
H.E. Mr. Harry Molenaar Netherlands Ambassador
Mr. Jack Ang Markant (M) Sdn Bhd
MDBC Executive Director: Mr. Marco Winter
MDBC Patrons: Y.B. Dato’ Sri Mustapa Mohamed Minister of International Trade & Industry Y.Bhg Tan Sri Rafidah Aziz Former Minister of Int’al Trade & Industry Malaysian Dutch Business Council Unit 808, 8th Floor Wisma Lim Foo Yong 86 Jalan Raja Chulan 50200 Kuala Lumpur Tel : 603 - 2722 8335 Fax : 603 - 2141 8335 Email : info@mdbc.com.my Website : www.mdbc.com.my
MDBCONNECTS 1ST ISSUE 2016
7
CALENDAR
APRIL TUE 5 / 6:30PM
MABC Networking Reception MIDA
WED 6 / 9:00AM
MDBC Connects Fair Parkroyal Kuala Lumpur
THUR 7 / 12:00NN
Visit to the Philips Experience Store Bayan Lapas, Penang
FRI 8 / 9:00AM
Dialogue with the Penang Chief Minister E&O Hotel Penang
MAY FRI 6 / 6:00PM
Tastes of Europe Fest 2016
NOTICE:
MDBC members will receive personal invitations for these functions by email once all details are confirmed. All events/dates to be reconfirmed.
MDBC PREMIUM PARTNERS 2016
INTERMO ERS malays a
CMYK CODES: C:20, M:100, Y:100, K:0 C:100, M:100, Y:0, K:0 C:100, M:100, Y:25, K:30
MDBCONNECTS 1ST ISSUE 2016
9
Kicking off the New Year with the launch of the MDBC 2016 - 17 Business Directory, fresh sea breezes, courtesy visits and an Outlook on 2016!
MDBC NEW YEAR’S RECEPTION Held on 18 January at the Residence of the Ambassador of the Netherlands, there was a great turnout at the MDBC New Year’s Reception, kicking off the beginning of MDBC’s 20th anniversary in style! MDBC members and Honorary Members mingled with numerous representatives of government, diplomatic, NGO, media and corporate organisations and agencies. Main parties in our network such as the Ministry of International Trade & Industry, MIDA, Matrade, InvestKL, invest Selangor and TalentCorp were all well represented. During the evening we announced several updates and new initiatives, such as The MDBC Strategy Plan 2016 - 2018, The Spouse Program and the MDBC App. And of course, this evening also saw the launch of the MDBC 2016 - 17 Business Directory.
It was a proud moment when the Guest of Honour, our Founding Patron, Tan Sri Rafidah Aziz (former MITI Minister) launched the new Directory together with MITI Secretary General Tan Sri Dr Rebecca Fatima Sta Maria, MDBC Chairman Zainul Rahim, Ambassador Harry Molenaar and representatives of our remaining 4 founding membercompanies: GAB (Managing Director Hans Essaadi), KLM (E&M Malaysia Managing Director Jan van Laar), KPMG (Head of ASEAN Desk Martyn van Wensveen) and Shell (Director Government Relations Rowina Ghazali).
The evening was well supported by the Netherlands Embassy, GAB for the Heineken beer, Uhrenholt for a wide variety of cheeses and CT Nexus for the Douwe Egberts coffee.
MDBC PENANG NY GATHERING MDBC kicked off 2016 with the New Year’s gathering for the Penang Chapter at the Parkroyal Resort Penang’s Sunset Bar, bringing together our members in the Northern region with various local corporate and government contacts. We even had some MDBC members from KL and Singapore joining the event as well! MDBC Penang Chapter representative John Benoist and MDBC Executive Director Marco Winter welcomed the crowd and promised to keep organising valuable events for the Chapter such as the upcoming Chief Minister’s dialogue and visit to the Philips Experience Store in Penang.
Top : The Sunset Bar provided an excellent ambiance for this gathering! (More pictures on page 42) Bottom: Marco and John having meetings with investPenang and Kulim Technology Park Corporation
During the day, meetings took place with investPenang and Kulim Technology Park Corporation to discuss mutual cooperation on activities, expanding networks and exposure for the Northern Region. MDBCONNECTS 1ST ISSUE 2016
11
OUTLOOK 2016: MALAYSIA’S ECONOMY WHERE IS IT TODAY AND THE CHALLENGES GOING FORWARD At the beginning of the year, MDBC organized an Outlook event to address some of the economic issues which have been highlighted in the news recently. The briefing, given by Lodewijk Govaerts (CEO, Scotiabank Malaysia), covered the speaker’s views on the state of the Malaysian economy against the background of recent global economic developments. It also included an overview of the Malaysian banking sector against the background of developments in the global banking sector.
in The Caribbean and returned to Asia in 2012 to take on his current role. As a leading international bank in Asia with over 50 years of experience in the region, Scotiabank has a global footprint which includes a strategic network across Asia, with offices throughout Asia and 6 other Asia - Pacific countries. For 2016, Lodewijk sees more of a bear than a bull. According to him, the basics are there in the U.S. to sustain and encourage further growth. China however, is of more concern; the global economy seems to have lost an important engine of growth. In Malaysia, as expected up to 9 months after the GST introduction, consumer sentiment is low. This is a downside and needs to improve soon, according to Lodewijk.
Lodewijk Govaerts is a senior executive banker having fulfilled leadership roles in 9 countries across Europe, The Caribbean and Asia Pacific, inclusive of serving as ABN AMRO’s CEO in Indonesia. In 2009 he transitioned to Scotiabank with its retail and commercial banking operations
LizardApps designs and develops smart business solutions for all, from small businesses to large corporations. From analysis, to concept, to development, and finally deployment, LizardApps utilizes
innovative technology to create a custom app for almost any business. They help companies and businesses improve profitability by streamlining workflow with the help of modern technology and in house software solutions. LizardApps’ core platform provides all these areas in the form of role and group based user management. “We don’t want to change the way organisations do business, we want to make it better and help them
move forward in time.” Recently, LizardApps has worked with MDBC to develop the MDBC App. Now available for both iOS and Android devices (just search for ‘MDBC’), the App brings you the latest information on MDBC events, allows you to register for events and add them to your calendar, access relevant news and more.
LIZARDAPPS & MDBC Proudly present
Event updates, News, Information and more...
In the palm of your hands Get the app now!
12
MDBCONNECTS 1ST ISSUE 2016
AEC: OPPORTUNITIES FOR DUTCH COMPANIES The ASEAN Economic Community (AEC) is one of the most significant milestones in ASEAN’s history. It is perhaps the best representation of the ASEAN spirit of regional cooperation and aims to achieve an integrated production space with free movement of goods, services, and skilled labor. The ASEAN Dutch Chamber Network (ADCN), consisting of the Dutch Chambers in Singapore, Indonesia, Thailand and Malaysia, recently came together to organize an AEC briefing in Singapore for the members of DutchCham. The briefing aimed to clarify what the establishment of the AEC would mean for Dutch companies operating in ASEAN. Also highlighted were if any real changes for the business community could be expected, as well as some of the potential advantages of the reduction of barriers to trade and investment in ASEAN. Discussed in depth were the regional
macro economic outlook for 2016, key deliverables the business community expects from the ASEAN states to help deepen economic integration, what ASEAN SMEs can do to improve their competitiveness, the role of an integrated financial sector in ASEAN for an effective “single market” as well as the ASEAN prioritization on the removal of Non Trade Barriers.
presented on the opportunities and challenges in their respective countries. MDBC was joined and supported by InvestKL.
Top: The Deloitte panel. Middle: Attendees at the AEC Briefing. Bottom l to r: Nele Cornelis (DCS), Stefan Bakker (Deloitte), Sanchita Basu Das, Bert Cesar (NTCC), Marco Winter (MDBC) and Elmar Bouma (INA).
Keynote speaker for this event was Sanchita Basu Das (Fellow & Lead Research ASEAN Study Centre, ISEAS / Coordinator of the Singapore APEC Study Centre) who gave a presentation on: * AEC: What is it, and what is it not? * Post 2015 vision for ASEAN * Socio - political landscape in ASEAN Deloitte Singapore presented on, and took questions on the outcomes of the Deloitte Survey on the AEC. The plenary session was followed by country breakout sessions: The Executive Directors of the Dutch Chambers in Indonesia, Thailand and Malaysia
MDBCONNECTS 1ST ISSUE 2016
13
ORGA is an independent company with over 35 years of experience in the development, design, manufacturing and maintenance of high quality explosion proof electrical equipment, obstacle lights and marine aids to navigation. Our products are used worldwide on petrochemical plants, offshore installation, ports and harbours and have achieved a reputation for quality and reliability. ORGA’s products and services remain competitive without compromising safety, quality assurance or after sales services. ORGA’s products are developed and manufactured according to all international standards (IALA, ICAO, FAA, CENELEC, ATEX, etc). For more information, please visit us at www.orga.nl
SEA ORGA SDN BHD (798744-H) Office Suite 11-10, Level 11 Wisma UOA II No. 21, Jalan Pinang 50450 Kuala Lumpur Malaysia T +60 3 2162 7877 F +60 3 2161 1877 info@orga.nl www.orga.nl
1st Edition 2016 The Netherlands has taken over the EU rotating presidency on January 1, 2016
KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA
ONE RINGGIT
MEMBERS NEWS
AXIS REIT ADDS RM 61 MILLION IPARK CAMPUS TO ITS ASSETS PORTFOLIO Axis-REIT completed the acquisition of 4 industrial facilities in January 2016 with the Beyonics iPark Campus property, situated at i-Park@ Indahpura, Johor. These single - story facilities annexed with 2 story office buildings are adjacent to each other and take up a total gross floor area of 289,900 sq ft.
The Netherlands is the 7th happiest country in the World. Malaysia is 47th.
CULTURAL IMPACT & INVESTKL TEAM UP FOR HALF DAY WORKSHOP Several Human Resource Directors and Managers from the Greater Kuala Lumpur area stepped away from their busy schedule on February 18 to take part in a half day workshop entitled “Successfully build a multi-cultural team in your regional hub in Kuala Lumpur”. The event was co-organized by MDBC members InvestKL and Cultural Impact. Marie Tseng (Director, Cultural Impact) shared her expertise with her usual skills and passion. She walked participants
through a powerful intercultural skills framework, illustrating her intervention with activities and many concrete examples. The presentation struck a cord with all participants. One attendee said “This short but very practical and experiential workshop gave me a better understanding of what we need to develop to have a truly functional intercultural team. It triggered some insights about how to incorporate this in our own company”.
With this latest addition, Axis REIT’s industrial portfolio comes up to a total of 38 properties at 7 million sq ft of space under management. The fund’s total assets under management stands at RM 2.14 bilion and Axis - REIT continues to be aggressive on its acquisition targets for industrial properties and leaseback deals around prime industrial locations in Malaysia.
FELIX CROWN RELOCATIONS WINS HR RELOCATION VENDORS OF THE YEAR AWARDS SIGNS MOU WITH Crown Malaysia has won the gold award for Best Relocation Company at the HR NMIT Vendors of the Year Awards 2015. In Q3 of 2015, Felix Relocations and the Netherlands Maritime Institute of Technology signed an MOU on the development of a local internship program. The first batch of interns from NMIT, Muaz Zamri and Muhammad Hakimi, started their internships at Felix Relocations last October, for a period of 16 weeks. During this time, the interns were exposed to various functions: field work and site survey, presentations, operations and customer service so that they would know and feel what an actual working day and week was like. Besides the normal 9-5 routine, interns spent time out the office socializing, attending corporate events and understanding work life balance. Felix Relocations is looking forward to more NMIT Interns joining its office, to be part of this program and get to know the industry.
The HR Vendors of the Year Awards is one of Asia’s largest award ceremonies to celebrate the achievements of organizations that serve HR professionals. This (it’s tenth edition) is the first year where Human Resources has extended the print edition to an awards show. Almost 120 organizations were shortlisted as the preferred vendors across 21 categories. The winners of each category were judged by senior regional heads of HR from across Asia. Commenting on the awards, Leon Hulme (Managing Director, Crown Malaysia) said: “Winning the award is a fantastic way to end 2015 for Crown Malaysia. In a year in which we’ve celebrated Crown’s 50th anniversary, everyone across Crown can be proud. We are delighted to be recognized as the number one relocation company in Malaysia, and I extend my
thanks to the many fantastic people in Relocations and World Mobility teams, who continue to show true dedication and a fierce determination to exceed our customers’ expectations.” MDBCONNECTS 1ST ISSUE 2016
15
Members News
KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA
The Asia School of Business (ASB) in collaboration with MIT Sloan School of Management, recently reached another milestone with the commencement of the construction of its own campus in Bukit Perdana, Kuala Lumpur. The ground breaking ceremony was officiated by the co-chairs of the ASB Board of Governors, Professor Richard Schmalensee and Tan Sri Dr Zeti Akhtar Aziz, and was witnessed by members of ASB’s Governing Board, business leaders and dignitaries from corporate partners, the diplomatic corps, and the public sector. Zeti said at a time of growing importance and influence of the Asian region, innovative and entrepreneurial skills are critically needed. “The offerings by
ASIA SCHOOL OF BUSINESS GROUND BREAKING CEREMONY the school are ambitious. Not only the theoretical foundations and its practical application but also to provide a greater understanding and appreciation of the dynamics of the environment in the emerging world, in particular Asia. The establishment of ASB is an important initiative to meet the increasing demand for such talent with such capabilities. This represents part of BNM’s commitment in the investment for education,” she said.
DDM is an international dynamic company that operates in the areas of dismantling, demolition, relocation and asbestos removal. In 2012, DDM began a four-year contract to dismantle five bridges over the Amsterdam-Rhine canal. The Loenerslootsebridge is the largest of the five at 187 m (614 ft) long and weighing 2,090 tons. On average, 21,000 vehicles cross this bridge daily. As well as the extremely busy canal, which is the
the ASB MBA will be known for. The ASB 18-month MBA programme will offer world-class business education based on the rigour of MIT Sloan’s curriculum, complemented with an Asian perspective. The construction for the new campus is expected to be completed in 2018.
The buildings on the campus will be equipped with technology-rich facilities and classrooms to help deliver action learning and practice-oriented approach to business management education that
DDM WINS WORLD DEMOLITION AWARD The World Demolition Summit has become established as one of the major annual international events for the demolition industry. Recently, DDM received the Civils World Demolition Award 2015 for the removal of 5 bridges in The Netherlands.
1st Edition 2016
main artery for domestic shipping, the bridge spans the tracks of the Amsterdam to Utrecht railway. After intensive inspection periods, certain key activities needed to be done before the bridge could be replaced. These included removing asbestos, which was done in consultation and advice from DDM
specialists. To minimize disturbance, the bridge needed to be replaced in one weekend. The team worked out safe methods of working to the highest standard at height, on land and on water. The ideal way of switching the old bridge for the new would have been to pick it up in one complete piece. The old bridge’s lack of structural strength however, meant that this could not take place. Engineering, extensive strength calculation and modelling taught the team to remove parts of the two ramps of the bridge before picking up the main arch. Placing the two large hydraulic cranes on both sides to lift out the sawn concrete deck and parts of the steel structure did the job, and more than 560 tons of concrete and 230 tons of scrap were removed to prepare for the bridge exchange.
YTL Renewable Energy Development Programme A Steward of our Good Earth
Making A Good Future Happen
YTL Corporation Berhad encourages the use of sustable energy and reduced dependence on fossil fuels and other traditional fuel sources. As part of their renewable energy development program, YTL Jawa Timur has brought light and power to more than 400 families through the installation of small scale micro hydro, biogas, and solar power generation systems for off-grid rural communities in Java. Electricity generated from the micro hydro and solar units is used to provide lighting for street lamps, homes and classrooms, thus allowing communities to accomplish more after dark, whilst the biogas units eliminates the use of harmful cooking fuels and produces bio-slurry which is used as an effective natural, organic fertiliser. 16
MDBCONNECTS 1ST ISSUE 2016
Members News
KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA
SUCCESSFUL ASSAI DOCUMENT CONTROL CONFERENCE IN KL On the 25th of February, Assai organized a very successful conference on Document Control and Cost Leadership in Kuala Lumpur. A versatile group of industry professionals gathered for the conference and contributed to the success of this day. The Netherlands Ambassador to Malaysia, H.E. Harry Molenaar opened the conference and discussed the current developments in the industry, stressing that it is essential to be competitive in all aspects of your business, especially in these times. The main theme of the conference was how investment in document control and document management leads to stunning cost savings on projects and daily operations. During the conference, several
examples were discussed on how simple improvements and changes in procedures can lead to impressive cost and time savings. Key guest speaker George Varghese, spoke about his long experience with AssaiDCMS and how Assai benefited the projects he has worked on. In addition, the new version of AssaiADMIN was introduced to the audience and was very well received. Under the guidance of Assai’s representatives Willem van der Jagt and Anthonia Smith, attendees also had the honour of being one of the very first people to try out AssaiMOBILE, enabling them to experience the benefits of having direct access to documentation.
1st Edition 2016
EXACT AND ESHGRO TO COLLABORATE WITH HPE IN SME PRIVATE CLOUD SOLUTION Exact Software has announced a collaboration with Hewlett Packard Enterprise (HPE) and cloud provider Eshgro focusing on SMEs globally. The private cloud solution uses the HPE Virtual Private Cloud (VPC) platform and the Bits Fabric cloud services from Eshgro. This combination offers Exact customers worldwide a flexible and secure private cloud solution. This solution enables a straightforward expansion of infrastructure, computing and storage. Thanks to this collaboration, SMEs are supported with the management and security of the business software, so they can concentrate on their core activities. The joint cloud solution also meets the highest security requirements. From research carried out by Exact with approximately 400 customers, it appears that interest in private cloud solutions is increasing among Dutch SMEs. Paul Ranmakers (Managing Director, Exact Software) commented, “The research also shows that companies are looking for support when ‘switching to the cloud’ with their applications. By using the private cloud, we relieve a company of their IT complexities, which means that SMEs, both locally and internationally, do not have to worry about the continuity, management and security of their applications.”
OCBC LAUNCHES WEALTH MANAGEMENT APP OCBC Bank has long led the digitalisation of wealth management services and the push to make such services more understandable and accessible. With the OCBC OneWealth app, everyone from beginners to seasoned investors can quickly access customised, up-todate market information and investment suggestions from OCBC Bank experts, easily monitor their investments and get personalised mobile alerts relevant to their investments. Customers can therefore make better sense of the
markets they are invested in, and make informed and timely decisions in managing their investment portfolios. OCBC Bank’s Head of E Business for Singapore Aditya Gupta said, “We believe that the convergence of mobile and wealth management can make wealth management services more simple, accessible, and personal for our customers. Our new OCBC OneWealth mobile app is all about making quality and personalised advice available to more people - especially those who are new to investing - in a way that is simple to understand and easy to act upon. This is the digital and wealth advantage that we offer to customers.” MDBCONNECTS 1ST ISSUE 2016
17
KLM ROYAL DUTCH AIRLINES
Feel at home in World Business Class Relax and enjoy your private space. With a full-flat bed seat and meals prepared by top chefs, the new World Business Class makes you feel at home every time you fly - klm.my
KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA
Members News
1st Edition 2016
ABN AMRO NEW PARTNER IN KLM ‘S CORPORATE BIOFUEL PROGRAM For a long time KLM Royal Dutch Airlines has been making substantial investments in the development of sustainable biokerosene. No company can achieve this on its own however and it has been developing the program with partners, in the business sector as well as NGOs and government. KLM’s BioFuel programme is one of the specific actions that have arisen from KLM’s collaboration with the World Wide Fund for Nature, in line with the agreement reached in 2011. KLM aims to reduce CO2 emissions by 20% in 2020 (compared to 2011), by way of fleet renewable, utilisation of sustainable biofuel, and improved flight efficiency. Recently, the KLM Corporate BioFuel Programme welcomed its 12th partner: ABN AMRO bank officially joined the group of trendsetting corporations who share KLM’s vision on sustainability and are striving to reduce their environmental footprint.
The agreement was signed at the ABN AMRO head office by Gerrit Zalm, Chairman of the Managing Board of ABN AMRO and Pieter Elbers, President & CEO of KLM Royal Dutch Airlines. Corporations that participate in the programme pay a surcharge that covers
the price difference between sustainable biofuel and traditional kerosene. This investment is fully utilised by KLM to purchase sustainable biofuel, which is added to the fuel pumped into KLM aircraft at Amsterdam Airport Schiphol and elsewhere.
MDBCONNECTS 1ST ISSUE 2016
19
INVESTKL: A NATURAL CHOICE FOR OIL & GAS SERVICE COMPANIES The sharp decline in oil prices to under USD40 per barrel recently has certainly sent large shockwaves through the oil and gas industry, raising questions over how long this large price dip will last and if a potential reversal is likely to occur soon. While the usual reasons have been behind oil’s downward price trend, the dynamics of supply and demand have changed quite considerably in the last 5 years, meaning that the near term oil price outlook will remain bleak. For the moment, oil and gas (O&G) players can only wistfully look back on the glory days of USD 100 per barrel and hope that it comes back soon. STRATEGIES TO REMAIN COMPETITIVE That said, National Oil Corporations (NOCs), International Oil Companies (IOCs), independent oil companies, and O&G service companies around the world have begun to reassess their long term strategy by relooking at their joint venture agreements, as well as existing and future contract projects, taking into consideration a strategic allocation of resources. While this process continues, both large and small companies have begun to implement short term measures, pursuing aggressive cost reduction strategies in order to remain competitive and to survive at the present oil price. Some of these measures include slashing capex, supply chain optimisation, liquidity management and of course, retrenchment exercises. A recent article by Forbes stated that more than 75,000 employees have been laid off due to the oil price slump, especially amongst the O&G service companies. The Asia Pacific region was not spared from these cuts despite growing energy needs. Nevertheless, the magnitude of these cuts was milder when compared to the western hemisphere. BP’s Energy Outlook 2035 report stated that India and China are expected to be the key drivers behind energy demand due to their sheer population size and projected economic growth. As such, for companies to ensure long term sustainability of energy supply, maintaining their headcount or talent will be crucial.
20
MDBCONNECTS 1ST ISSUE 2016
REVAMPING COST STRUCTURE AS A PRIORITY Most of the NOCs have begun to delay their final investment decisions (FID) on new projects until more clarity is seen on the price front and are using this slowdown to encourage their service providers to pursue cost reduction strategies. Petronas’ CORAL 2.0 program, for example, is encouraging their Production Sharing Contractors (PSCs) to streamline the cost structure across the value chain of the domestic petroleum industry. Indonesia’s Upstream Oil and Gas Regulatory Special Task Force (SKKMigas) meanwhile, has instructed O&G contractors to cut costs by renegotiating contract costs. O&G service companies are also going above and beyond with a number of them considering relocating their regional headquarters / engineering centers to a more cost competitive location. Recently, PGS and Saipem have moved their regional headquarters from Singapore to the Greater Kuala Lumpur (KL) area. The high cost of doing business in major oil and gas hubs such as Singapore and Perth in the region are beginning to push O&G service companies’ regional hubs away from these cities. According to the Mercer Cost of Living survey 2015, Singapore is ranked 4th and Perth the 31st most expensive city in the world to live in, as opposed to Kuala Lumpur which is ranked 113th . GREATER KUALA LUMPUR AS AN O&G HUB IN ASEAN Greater KL is in a sweet spot, offering O&G service players a viable option for a location to set up their regional
headquarters, and / or provide regional engineering support at a much lower cost while maintaining engineering talent during this period. Locating their regional hub in Greater KL will consequently boost profit margins onCe the oil price recovers. TALENT AVAILABILITY Greater KL also has a long history with the O&G industry. There is an abundance of experienced engineers, and has the ability to generate over 20,000 new engineering graduates annually to service the industry locally and regionally. In addition, many talented and experienced workers have been returning to the area for a variety of reasons, one of which is the Returning Experts Programme (REP) by the government. This program allows returning Malaysians to enjoy numerous benefits (as the government recognises the need to nuture technical talent, specifically engineers and other specialized professionals), including development programs, and support from foreign talents in specific specialisation areas where the local market is weak - enabling a knowledge transfer to strengthen these specializations. Greater KL’s value propositions have certainly attracted reputable international O&G companies, such as Shell, Schlumberger, Halliburton, Petrofac and others, to choose Greater KL as their regional headquarters / engineering hub. This momentum is likely to continue is the near term, more so with the realization of the ASEAN Economic Community where policymakers are pushing for the creation of a single duty free market with a substantial liberalization of service subsectors.
MEMBER SPOTLIGHT - SHELL In this 20th anniversary of the Malaysian Dutch Business Council (MDBC), we are putting a spotlight on our special “Founding Members” - those member companies who have been a part of the MDBC community since our very first day in 1996. Ben van Beurden, Royal Dutch Shell plc’s Chief Executive Officer, is guiding the company through a difficult period for the industry. In February 2016, he reflected on the recently completed merger of Shell and BG.
We now plan to shape a simpler, leaner, more agile and competitive company focusing on our priorities for growth in liquefied natural gas (LNG) and deep water. The acquisition significantly boosts our oil and gas reserves and production capacity, and is expected to provide a strong injection to our operating cash flow. It underpins our role as one of the world’s largest independent producers of LNG. But this deal is not about size. It is about quality. The combined value of our existing and potential energy projects creates a company more able to brave the cycles in our industry, and strengthens our ability to pay the dividend at any oil price that might reasonably be expected. Shell has acquired major oil and gas projects in Brazil and Australia, and interests in other key countries. We see potential for immediate benefits from our and BG’s complementary LNG operations in Australia and Trinidad and Tobago, as well as in Asia, a crucial and growing market. Other clear benefits include BG’s strong position in trading and shipping, which will bolster Shell’s capabilities, volumes and relationships in these core areas for the future development of the global gas market.
The following was extracted from an article by Mr. van Beurden. We recently witnessed the birth of a new player in the global energy industry. In the midst of some of the toughest market conditions seen in decades, the joining together of Shell and BG creates a company of extraordinary strengths – a combination greater than the sum of our parts. I feel privileged to be part of this historic, transformative moment. It has been an intense 10 months since we first announced the combination with BG, it has also been a period of great volatility. Although the oil price has fallen since our announcement, I remain convinced of the strategic and financial merits of the deal. Over time, I expect the fundamentals of energy supply and demand to reassert themselves and the strategic and economic benefits of the deal to fully deliver for shareholders. The deal reinvigorates Shell and will be a springboard for further transformation.
This timely rejuvenation of Shell sharpens our ability to adapt and thrive in an energy landscape that will continue to change. It’s clear that business as usual isn’t good enough if the world is to tackle climate change, while making vital energy available to a growing population in need of a decent standard of living. A global energy transition is under way. I want Shell to be part of this transition by producing more natural gas to replace coal in power generation; continuing to invest in the development of energy sources for the future, such as lowcarbon biofuels and hydrogen as a fuel for transport; and by helping to develop carbon capture and storage. We will continue to advocate government-led carbon-pricing systems. In my 32 years with Shell I have sometimes heard people say, “This company is like an ocean-going tanker. It takes an age to turn.” With the completion of this deal, we have truly changed course – and are now going full speed ahead.
Shell Malaysia, present locally since 1891, is also celebrating its 125th anniversary this year. With several hub businesses in Malaysia, which provide services and expertise to the Asia Pacific region and, in some cases, globally, Shell Malaysia is involved in Upstream, Downstream, and Projects and Technology. Shell is committed to sustainable development. Their actions are guided by the need to make business decisions that demonstrate economic, social, and environmental responsibility for which their stakeholders and society at large can hold them accountable. Some of their sustainable development activities in Malaysia include supporting talented young entrepreneurs, promoting better Road Safety and numerous community developing programmes. Shell Malaysia regularly awards full scholarships to Malaysians pursuing first degree studies in local and international universities, and bursary awards to students who excel in government exams. They have been sponsoring deserving Malaysian students in their pursuit of higher education for over 40 years and will continue to invest over RM 10 million each year in various educational awards, or capacity building programs for Malaysians. They’ve also been learning to use energy more efficiently, as it will help to conserve resources and reduce greenhouse gases for the future health of the planet. They continuously look for ways to make their operations and processes more energy efficient and limit their CO2 emissions. Since 2005, they have followed a program to increase the energy efficiency of their existing operations. Their community care program seeks to help raise the quality of life of the communities in which they operate, personal involvement is emphasized. With small grants and a great deal of encouragement from Shell, staff, their family members, retirees, and members of the community themselves, support is given to a variety of causes. For more information about Shell, please visit www.shell.com.my.
Menara Shell No 211 Jalan Tun Sambanthan 50470 Kuala Lumpur Tel: +603 - 2385 2888 Fax: +603 - 2261 6139
MDBCONNECTS 1ST ISSUE 2016
21
AN INSIDE LOOK: WOODWING ASIA PACIFIC - REMCO KOSTER Remco Koster (Managing Director, WoodWing Asia Pacific and member of the MDBC Board of Directors), joined WoodWing in 2005 to start developing and maintaining sales channels in the Asia Pacific region for this well established multichannel publishing and digital asset management software company. Before joining WoodWing, Remco set up a NewspaperDirect reprinting and distribution franchise in Indonesia, distributing more than 600 same day newspapers from around the world, using the latest internet and digital printing technologies. He has also worked for major suppliers in the publishing software industry. Although he was born in Bussum, Remco spent most of his childhood in the Veluwe area (Bennekom). He went to university in Rotterdam (Erasmus University) and studied business administration. A so called Millennium student, he was poached away before graduating by his first employer to manage their Millennium project (to identify and fix potential year 2000 - Millennium - problems). Initially intending to go back to university and graduate, Remco ended up loving work so much he never did, and he hasn’t looked back since. MDBC: What brought you to South East Asia / Malaysia? RK: I was working for an international software company in London at a project in South Africa when I got to know the CEO/ Founder of an Italian software company (a competitor) who was there to sell an upgrade of his software to the same customer. We shared a love of Italian food and wine
(we met in the local Italian restaurant) and got on so well that he headhunted me to manage projects for his South East Asia office. The office was located in the Petronas Twin Towers, which I had seen in the movie Entrapment (with Catherine Zeta - Jones and Sean Connery). I thought that was pretty cool (and the job offer was so good I could hardly refuse) that I sold off almost all my possessions (I had just bought brand new furniture in London). I arrived in Malaysia with two suitcases. I had never been to Asia (or any tropical country) before so I was a bit overwhelmed by the heat and humidity. I got used to it pretty quickly though. MDBC: You bring a wealth of knowledge with you in establishing and growing an organization in the South East Asian region. Could you share with us some key lessons / challenges you faced / learned from when you set up NewspaperDirect (about starting a business in Southeast Asia)? RK: My NewspaperDirect stint, where I set up a brand new business in Indonesia (Jakarta / Bali) I usually call my ‘MBA’. All my friends thought I was crazy leaving a well paid and stable job to pursue an adventure with a Dutch friend and two other business partners. There were many lessons learnt in those two years, both business and personal lessons. The most important business lesson was that cash flow in any business but especially in a start-up is King; shareholders have limited funds and patience if more funding is needed. To be optimistic is good, but be honest and realistic in your expectations of growth and suc-
Remco Koster in Indonesia with his first customer, the Kontan publication, hot off the press in 2006
“The most important business lesson was that cash flow in any business, but especially in a start-up, is King; shareholders have limited funds and patience if more funding is needed. To be optimistic is good, but be honest and realistic in your expectations of growth and success.” cess. The most important personal lessons were to adapt to the local culture, be patient (not really a Dutch or personal trait) and to learn the local language. MDBC: Just as there are two sides to every story, we can’t focus on just the cautionary side of things. All too often the positive side of things is overlooked when they too play an important role in a startup attempt. Could you therefore share with us some key tips / your top 5 steps to successfully starting a business in the ASEAN region? RK: One of the top tips I would have is to find a good local partner/director. This is not an easy process and you can make mistakes - I know many people who have. I have been lucky in my Indonesian venture to find two very good local directors; one of them, Mr. Topobroto – the most important one - I found through the Indonesia Netherlands Association (INA); he was extremely well connected and the neighbor of then (and now) Vice-President Yusuf Kalla. For WoodWing’s Asia Pacific startup I worked (and still work) with my former colleague (at the Italian regional office) and best friend (and best man) John Fong; he has been instrumental in the success of WoodWing in this region. The second tip would be to join a local business council (this is an honest plug for the MDBC); being a member of INA (and BritCham and AmCham) in Jakarta and the MDBC in Malaysia helped me tremendously in the early stages of starting up the businesses. The advice from and the sharing of experiences with fellow countrymen - other country’s Chambers can be useful if applicable to your business - really helps prevent mistakes early on. It also helps to meet nice
22
MDBCONNECTS 1ST ISSUE 2016
AN INSIDE LOOK people and make friends quickly in a new environment that is unfamiliar. The third tip is a more generic one: find good people to work for you, despite the pressure of a start-up environment don’t hire too quickly and don’t be too stingy. Take your time to find the right persons (and personalities) that complement you in areas that are not your strengths and where you have a lack of (local) knowledge. The most important person (fourth tip) in my opinion early on is a very strong local office manager/personal assistant that can help you with everything that is so essential and time consuming early on: finding and negotiating office space, open bank accounts, organize utilities, finding good recruitment agencies, etc etc. I have made hiring strong office managers my top priority both in Indonesia as well as in Malaysia. My fifth tip is to learn the local culture/ habits/do’s and don’ts and if possible the local language. You will benefit so much from it and everybody will greatly appreciate it. MDBC: As the Managing Director of WoodWing Asia Pacific (and with many years of experience in doing business regionally), how do you see the establishment / further development of the ASEAN Economic Community (AEC) impacting the region? What will this mean for those who are looking to access the market? RK: By right, if ASEAN policies are implemented in a similar way to the EU, it should become easier to hire for example Indonesian skilled staff in Malaysia as many well Malaysians talents move abroad (to Singapore, Australia, Hong Kong for example). The free movement of labor should help in this area and provide healthy regional competition which is great for everybody. At the moment it is a big challenge to find, hire and retain good talent in Malaysia. MDBC: Can you indeed confirm the rankings in the Global Ease of Doing Business Report that Malaysia is more favorable than other ASEAN countries (Potentially except Singapore)? How do you think the Malaysian government and / or business community can further improve the business ecosystem? RK: I can compare Malaysia extremely favorably with Indonesia when it comes to both setting up as well as running the business (ongoing paperwork). Since I started working in Malaysia in 2002 it has become much easier to obtain work permits and even Resident Passes here; the MDBC maintains an excellent relationship with TalentCorp, a government agency that can
Planting a WoodWing flag in Myanmar on our WoodWing HQ World Map
assist with Resident Passes that are valid for 10 years (!). I am also a big fan of the Malaysian government’s program to make it easier for technology companies to be based here. The MSC status (which is quite easy to obtain) organized by MDeC really helps, both financially - with a potential 10-year tax break - as well as employing foreign employees through pre-approved work permits. I think the most important thing the Malaysian government should continue to provide is an economically and politically stable environment. Currently, for various reasons, Malaysia is getting a lot of unfavorable international press attention, both politically as well as religion related, which is hurting its reputation abroad as a stable and moderate country. All in all, I personally think Malaysia is an excellent place to live and work and a lot of negative press is exaggerated/sensationalized. I have seen this happen as well when I lived in Indonesia. MDBC: Malaysia is one of the best countries in the ASEAN region for a startup; while the startup environment here is not quite as well developed as its neighbor to the south, it does have a supportive government, policies, and communities. In your opinion, what are some of the most helpful tools / agencies for those looking to start up a company in Malaysia? (If possible, going beyond MDeC, what is available locally in terms of Angel Investors, Start up Funds, Business Mentorship programs, etc. RK: I believe that, besides MDeC, government policies are pro-startups and other government agencies such as InvestKL, InvestPenang are doing a lot to attract businesses. And as discussed before it is very easy to set-up a new business here. I
think, however, that the high-tech start-up mentality is lagging behind what I see back home, in the US, in Singapore and most recently in Indonesia. Some of my close friends have tried to secure startup funding in Malaysia and have found investment (and Angel Investor) funds as well as banks to be too risk averse and not used to high-tech related investments where a return on investment is very unsure and business models not always known until the products are developed. It is too much a ‘brick and mortar’ mentality that prevails, where returns are much more predictable and business models proven. I believe the government and local private sector can and should do much more and be willing to take a gamble instead of placing sure bets. I have seen great initiatives though when it comes to mentorship of start-ups. Here in Cyberjaya, where I am based, this has been managed very proactively – and successfully - by Cyberview. At a Malaysian tech event showing Dato’ Seri Paduka Mukhriz Mahathir WoodWing’s tablet applications.
MDBCONNECTS 1ST ISSUE 2016
23
Silverstreet is a Wholesale Bulk SMS provider with almost 15 years of experience in the industry, covering more than 800 networks in the world. Silverstreet's mobile messaging solutions and innovative, highly scalable communication platform continually provides our clients with unique, reliable and secure solutions to help grow their business..
Bulk SMS
Number Lookup
Mobile Connect
Virtual Mobile Numbers
Mobile Communicator
STUDENT INTERNSHIP PROGRAM ASIA SCHOOL OF BUSINESS The SIP Experiences of Rinke Bakker, Frederique Nauta and Bart Veldman at the Asia School of Business. Learning-by-Doing and Experimentation are at the core of MIT’s pedagogy that the brand-new Asia School of Business (ASB) brings to KL, Malaysia and South East Asia. Just over a year ago, Bank Negara and the top ranked US school, MIT Sloan, started working together to establish a new premier Business School for Malaysia and for the region, with the objective of making it an innovation-disruptive force in Asia to develop transformative and principled leaders who will contribute to a better future and to the advancement in the emerging world, especially in the Asian region. Convinced of the educational power of experimentation, ASB loves be surrounded by curious learners and hence, as the school is in startup mode, it deliberately adopted a significant amount of can-do-minded interns into its young team: No less than 25%, about 8 to 10 in the team of around 40. The MDBC has played an important part in providing ASB with great young candidates. Thus far ASB has had the pleasure of working and learning with four Dutch interns: Saleha, Rinke, Bart, and Frederique.
Rinke Bakker is a recent graduate in Economics and Business Economics from the University of Groningen (RUG) and started his placement at ASB in October. “It is a really interesting and inspirational moment to join ASB and experience the groundbreaking launch and day to day operating of a Business School. This has given me a unique perspective on the challenges for not only a startup, but also in the educational sector.”
Bart Veldman, a third year International Business and Management student at the Hanzehogeschool Groningen, just finished his first month at ASB. “The best thing about working at ASB is how they value their staff. There is a clear emphasis on progressing as team, which reflects in everyone’s determination to get the best out of every day. Everyone is really accessible and willing to help me wherever they can. Beside my day-to-day work I get involved in meetings and have the chance to experience lectures and workshops from high-end professors. In my first week at ASB I even
had the opportunity to join a meeting with KFit’s CEO. The exposure I get here to both the business and educational side is really something I will take back to my studies and later in life.” Frederique Nauta is in her last year of Hospitality Management at Hotelschool The Hague and just finished her first week at ASB. “I have not been here for very long, but I think I am going to have a very nice and instructive time here. ASB is a very diverse and inclusive team, which is extremely important nowadays. From the moment I arrived I got involved in all event meetings and I have a lot of responsibility already. The staff at ASB is very hospitable and I received a very warm welcome. It is very refreshing to work at a company like this, because it has an open door policy and everyone is open to answer your questions and help you out when you are struggling with anything.” “Being involved in a small team allows us to truly contribute to a transformative business school. All of us get involved in the organization and execution of various events and we even get the opportunity to join some, such as the MIT Faculty insight series, hosted by various MIT Professors (Including a Nobel Laureate!), who are eager to share their expertise and insights. In short, it is an experience not a lot of students like us get.”
SIP 2015-2 TOUR AT THE TAVERN & 2016-1 CULTURAL BRIEFING Left Top: Marie Tseng (Cultural Impact) providing the 2016 - 1 batch of MDBC SIP interns a briefing on awareness of cultural differences in Malaysia and cross cultural competencies. Left Middle: With briefings from representatives of the Netherlands Embassy included, the MDBC SIP Cultural Briefing is a complete and thorough one that helps students prepare and adjust to living and working in a foreign environment. Left Bottom: The first arrivals of the 2016 - 1 batch of SIP students. Below: The 2015 - 2 batch of interns at the conclusion of their internship period in Malaysia enjoying a tour of the Guinness Anchor Berhad Brewery and evening at The Tavern located in Sungei Way.
MDBCONNECTS 1ST ISSUE 2016
25
MDBC SPOUSE PROGRAM MDBC INTRODUCES A NEW SERVICE Strong economies and major businesses thrive on diversity. Organizations that employ a diverse, multicultural workforce can supply a greater variety of solutions to problems in service, sourcing, and allocation of resources. Employees from diverse backgrounds bring individual talents and experiences in suggesting ideas that are flexible in adapting to fluctuating markets and customer demands. The above is already one of the cornerstones of the success of MDBC’s Student Internship Program, which requires no further introduction. We do believe, however, that MDBC can play an even stronger role in connecting employers and employees in the competitive Malaysian job market. The expat community of the MDBC and the Netherlands Association in Malaysia is a great talent pool for companies looking to diversify their workforce.
MDBC is therefore proud to introduce the MDBC Spouse Program. This program aims to bring together potential employers and professional expat spouses. It provides member companies with a new HR service, and at the same time, enables MDBC and our members to become more inclusive to the professional expat community. The MDBC Spouse Program can offer professional trailing spouses the opportunity to be included in the MDBC Membership, inclusive of access to all MDBC (and EUMCCI) events and be presented to our membership community as a potential employee. Of course we do hope that member-companies will have jobs and projects available to become potential employers for this target group. Please visit http://www.mdbc.com.my/services/spouse-program/
Brainstorm on the Spouse Program with Patricia Handels, Merel Arnoldussen, Maayke Mannaert, Suerd Polderdijk, Jolande Jonge Poerinkk and Marco Winter
Benefits for member-companies: * Have a larger talent-pool available * Opportunities for project-based and flexi / part time staff * Closer link to the expat community Benefits for trailing spouses: * Increased opportunities for professional and personal development while living in Malaysia * Access to a network of professional companies and colleagues * Support for your job search
The MDBC Spouse Program: Bringing together potential employers and professional expat spouses Increase your opportunities for professional and personal development while living in Malaysia, join the MDBC Spouse Program.
For more information about the program or to join, please contact us at info@mdbc.com.my, otherwise, please visit us at www.mdbc.com.my/ services/spouse-program and fill in the Spouse Program Membership Form
MDBC Spouse Program Membership: * All the regular benefits of an MDBC Invidiual Membership, inclusive of access to MDBC and EUMCCI events; * Inclusion of your resume in a dedicated Spouse Program monthly e mail to MDBC member companies; * 1 Hour free one - on - one consultation with an MDBC staff member; * Dedicated events for the Professional Spouse members - on sharing experiences, immigration matters, learning about cultural differences, and information on volunteer work (twice a year). Malaysian Dutch Business Council Unit 808, 8th Floor | Wisma Lim Foo Yong info@mdbc.com.my | www.mdbc.com.my
| 86 Jalan Raja Chulan 50200 Kuala Lumpur | Tel: +603 2722 8335 | Fax: +603 2141 8335
MDBCONNECTS 1ST ISSUE 2016
27
Fly the World’s Best Airline to Amsterdam
Seamless connections from Kuala Lumpur to Amsterdam, via Doha. Paint your next escape to one of the world’s most eclectic and creative cities. The heart of the Netherlands and home to renowned art galleries, museums, festivals and music venues, this vibrant world city has it all. For more information, log on to qatarairways.com/my
NETHERLANDS EMBASSY NEWS
NFIA: YOUR INTERNATIONAL PARTNER TO EUROPE registered investments valued at €1.87 billion from over 300 foreign companies. This resulted in 9,300 new jobs and NFIA is said to be responsible for 7,779 of the jobs created. To read more about NFIA’s 2015 results, please refer to www.investinholland.com
Some MDBC members may have met representatives of the Netherlands Foreign Investment Agency (NFIA) here in Malaysia. What is it and what do they do here in Malaysia? NFIA is an operational unit of the Ministry of Economic Affairs. Founded over 35 years ago, NFIA, with its headquarters in The Hague - has a global presence with offices in 22 cities. NFIA Malaysia was established more than eight years ago and is located in the Economic department of the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in Kuala Lumpur. Headed by Agnes Seah for the last six years and counting, NFIA Malaysia is part of the South East Asia team, which comprises of NFIA Singapore and NFIA Thailand. Heading this all women team is Suzanne Sweerman, the Executive Director of NFIA South East Asia, based in Singapore. Upholding the Dutch spirit of hard work, preserverance and proactiveness, Agnes can be found at events and functions promoting The Netherlands as the Gateway to Europe. Why do we have NFIA? Foreign investments are a vital and important contributor to the Dutch economy and GDP, which in turn creates employment. It is for this reason that NFIA exists. In 2015, The Netherlands
Malaysia and The Netherlands. The Netherlands as an investment destination is not the automatic choice for many Malaysian companies. The first choice remains the United Kingdom because of its historical ties with Malaysia. However, this is slowly starting to change. These days, the mere mention of the Port of Rotterdam, Schiphol airport, and Amsterdam city, Dutch football and even the Keukenhof gardens brings nods and smiles to many. But The Netherlands has much more to offer foreign investors. This is why NFIA actively promotes The Netherlands in the form of investment seminars, networking receptions and breakfast talks while collaborating closely with colleagues at the Embassy, business councils - such as MDBC, associations and government agencies in many of the states in Malaysia. Traditionally, Malaysian investors in The Netherlands are from the palm oil, automotive, IT, and oil and gas industry, but we are slowly seeing interest from other industries such as medical disposables and packaging. Many of these companies consider Europe a growing and important market. By having a base in The Netherlands, they can bring their products closer to the market and hence serve their European customers better. Why invest in The Netherlands? There are many reasons to invest in The Netherlands. First, The Netherlands has an excellent business climate and is a great base from which to ‘conquer’ Europe. We are the most attractive for companies seeking: 1. Great logistics and supply chains 2. A competitive tax climate 3. Efficient, highly educated, multilingual workforce. Combining these factors, The Netherlands
ranks amongst the top investment destinations worldwide. Second, NFIA offers practical assistance and tailor made information. A lot of the information provided is related to corporate taxes, customs duties and VAT deferment, immigration permits for expat staff, labor law, best locations / offices, recruitment and so forth. We do not work alone; rather, we work together with sector and industry specialists whether it be in agrofood, high - tech, chemicals, life sciences, healthcare, logistics and even start-ups. We also work closely with our regional partners in The Netherlands, tax and legal firms, and logistics councils to name a few. All information provided is free of charge and all of our discussions are treated with confidentiality. Third, we offer customized fact finding trips from A - Z, making it easy for companies to visit locations and speak with the relevant service providers and experts. For many first time investors, this service comes highly praised. It makes setting up in The Netherlands easy. These services are also provided by NFIA free of charge. If you, or one of your business partners, are planning to establish a presence in The Netherlands (whether it be a sales and marketing office, European headquarters, holding, logistics warehouse, R&D, or even outsourced logistics), feel free to visit us at the Dutch Embassy in Kuala Lumpur, or simply drop us a line at: seah@nfiamalaysia.com. We will be more than pleased to share information on doing business in Europe and The Netherlands. We would also highly advise visiting our new and award winning website at www. investinholland.com. Our website won gold under the Economic Development category at the Marcom Award in 2015.
MDBCONNECTS 1ST ISSUE 2016
29
No. 33, Jalan i - Park 1/3 Kawasan Perindustrian i - Park Bandar Indahpurah 81000 Kulai Johor, Malaysia Tel: +607 660 7878 Mail: info@hqpack.com.my
DIALOGUE
Quintiq: Sales & Operations Planning 5 TIPS FOR BETTER S&OP SCENARIO PLANNING
Many companies recognize the importance of scenario planning for effective S&OP (Sales and Operations Planning). However, the full benefits of scenario planning may not be realized unless certain key conditions are met. Scenario planning gives you the freedom
to explore different options which can improve the effectiveness of the S&OP process dramatically. Here are the top five tips from Quintiq for ensuring that scenario planning becomes a natural and beneficial part of your organization’s S&OP.
Top 5 tips for better scenario planning 1. Look for effortless data manipulation Scenarios free our thinking. However, if creating them requires considerable IT effort or technical support, most people won’t bother. Look for a solution that gives you the flexibility to create alternative sets of data quickly and easily. 2. Create scenarios when and as needed. You should be able to create scenarios in minutes. Being able to manipulate data easily is part of this, but so is being able to calculate the effects of those changes on the entire plan, and optimize the results. If an alternative scenario is raised during an S&OP meeting, it is extremely useful to be able to evaluate that alternative on the spot. The insights you gain from this kind of on the fly scenario planning can be invaluable. Ensure that you can create multiple scenarios rapidly. 3. Limit the scope of your scenarios. It’s better to have many focused scenarios with an appropriate level of detail, rather than one
Scenario planning doesn’t have to be tedious. Following these five simple tips will go a long way in helping you realize the benefits of a powerful S&OP enabler. For more information, please visit www. quintiq.com
huge one that tries to be all encompassing. A common mistake is to merge an organization’s long term strategic plan with its monthly S&OP plan. They may sound appealing but in reality all encompassing scenarios greatly complicate scenario planning while adding no value. Don’t squeeze all your data into one big scenario. Use different scopes, with different levels of detail, for different purposes. 4. Compare your scenarios. The importance of comparing scenarios may seem self evident. Besides having the right tool, it’s also crucial to be able to compare scenarios quickly based on high level KPIs. These KPIs help to ensure that your S&OP is aligned with your business strategy, and give you a quick way to identifying the most promising scenarios. You should be able to compare scenarios at a glance, before drilling down on the most interesting high level KPIs. 5. Keep track of your leading scenario. With Excel, it isn’t always easy to identify the leading scenario. All too often people update the wrong plan and even end up implementing it. An effective S&OP process will naturally involve creating many scenarios. An effective S&OP tool should therefore enable you to flag the leading scenario so that everyone knows exactly which one to use. Keep all planners informed of the leading scenario - or use a planning tool that can do this for you.
MDBCONNECTS 1ST ISSUE 2016
31
Who’s got a worldwide network of 6000 experts behind them? Local people with local knowledge in over 80 countries
Flexible support tailored to you A single supplier worldwide Find out how TMF Group can help you manage your corporate secretarial compliance.
tmf-group.com/Compliance
DIALOGUE
Chur Associates 5 LEGAL TRENDS IN MALAYSIAN PROPERTY INVESTMENT By Chris Tan (Founder & Managing Partner, Chur Associates)
There is no real estate if there is no law. Real estate, like any investment, is actually a byproduct of law. Law gives you the fundamentals in real estate from the issuance of land titles to recognition of boundaries and ownership. Therefore, observing the legal trends in property investment will give you a head start in making your property investment sustainable in the long run. Here are 5 trends to take you through for at least the next 10 years: 1. Home Buyer Protection Over Investor Protection If you buy a house and stay in it, you get more protection over someone who buys for investment purposes. The last few years were essentially a nationwide home ownership campaign by the Government, with a focus on affordable housing. If house ownership gets harder, buyer protection will increase - they want you to own your house. A roof over your head is the key before housing becomes a state welfare, like many developed nations, based purely on affordability.
I’m hopeful. In a developed country, there are less developers - there is less land to build on, there will be compliance matters, and if you want a good location, you will have tear down existing buildings and restart. The Housing Development Laws puts a lot of obligations on developers, and the entry cost is higher, due to GST, the weaker ringgit and oil price slump. Private housing property developers will soon join the like of Panda and the Malayan Tiger as endagered species in time to come, driven out by strong competition in both the Federal and State government. As Malaysia slowly progresses into developed nation status (maybe in 10 to 15 years), to buy firsthand property would then become a very expensive proposition. Get used to buying second-hand property. The problem is, we always want new things! 3. Collective Investment Property investment is now a team sport - it’s no longer an individual game. The barrier of entry is higher, and bank financing is tightening. You will have to find a couple of like-minded individuals and leverage on each other. You also have to be more innovative, as you can’t just rely on “flip and keep” strategies anymore. You have to come up with new ways to raise your capital, instead of relying solely on banks. Also consider ways of selling and disposing. Work together with your buyer or seller. You need to transform from the tiger that hunts alone, to the lion that hunts in a pride. 4. Property Management Is The Driver Those who solely buy and sell property
aren’t investors - they’re just property traders. A good investor must know how to manage and add value. If you just buy and hold, the wait to cash out could be longer given that Real Property Gain Tax is high in early disposal and your margins are thinning in today’s context. You need to know how to squeeze water out of stone. We are entering an era of low yield and high appreciation. You either have to compete through price, or features - for instance, paint your unit orange to attract that niche! 5. Strata Is The Way Of Life Strata is not your everyday product. You have to be very involved, whether it’s the service charge, sinking fund or management. You’re a part of it - no different from a shareholder in a corporation. If your condominium is managed properly, the prices will definitely go up. It isn’t about whether they serve a buffet during the AGM. Strata is all about “love thy neighbour”; it’s no longer “my home is my kingdom”. If only one person doesn’t pay the service charge, it effectively means the whole condominium/apartment is undermaintained. Here’s a sad fact: the average number of people who pay on time? 50%. The percentage is higher for high-end projects, because they know about this. The management is not your enemy, ignorance of what strata living is all about is the far greater enemy. Now, think about your property investment portfolio and see how knowing these 5 trends could be helpful to you. Knowing is never enough without taking action.
2. It Will Be Harder to Become A Developer Tun Dr. Mahathir’s Vision 2020 foresees Malaysia becoming a developed nation. “Delay expected, destination targeted” we might not get there by 2020, perhaps a few more years down the road. Personally, MDBCONNECTS 1ST ISSUE 2016
33
GREEN BOARD
CFF - Climate Change and the UN Sustainable Development Agenda The world’s climate is changing. Global CO2 emissions are far above levels needed to keep global temperatures within 2°C above pre-industrial levels - the target of the UN Conference on Climate Change (UNFCCC COP21). Even without extreme events, +2°C average temperature increases will affect agricultural production, especially in parts of the tropics where productivity thresholds are at the limit of physiological tolerance. These increases in temperature will have serious and potentially catastrophic consequences for the production of major crops such as maize, wheat and rice. Climate change is also likely to cause more volatile rainfall patterns with increased risks of drought and flooding. There is little scientific evidence on exactly which crops and cropping systems will suit the hotter, more volatile climates of the future. In September, 2015, the United Nations launched the 2030 Sustainable Development Agenda (SDA 2030). For the first time, a universal, integrated and ambitious agenda has been agreed upon for action. SDA 2030 has 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Additional information on the UN SDGs are available at www.sustainabledevelopment.un.org/ content/documents/7891Transforming%20 Our%20World.pdf.
Crops For the Future
RESEARCH CENTRE
Established in 2011, Crops For the Future (CFF) is the world’s first centre dedicated to agricultural diversification using underutilised crops and cropping systems. Its host country, Malaysia, is the repository of much of the world’s terrestrial and marine biodiversity. CFF has established a global alliance of over 50 institutional partners and is a member of the Association of International Research and Development Centers for Agriculture (AIRCA). CFF and AIRCA share a common mission of using research and knowledge to strengthen capacities for sustainable improvements to incomes, food and nutritional security in healthy landscapes. In a ceremony which coincided with the UNFCCC COP 21 climate meeting in Paris, CFF launched the Declaration on Agricultural Diversification. The Declaration calls upon States, Intergovermental Organisations and the Non - Government sector to take the following actions: 1. Develop a Global Action Plan for Agricultural Diversification (GAPAD). The purpose of GAPAD is to address challenges identified in SDA 2030 through the diversification of agricultural species and systems. 2. Convene an International Conference on Agricultural Diversification under the auspices of UNFAO.
Former Malaysian Prime Minister Tun Dato’ Sri Haji Abdullah bin Haji Ahmad Badawi and YABhg Tun Jeanne Abdullah (Patron of the Tropical Rainforest Conservation and Research Centre) signing the Declaration on Agricultural Diversification which stands alongside the UNFCCC COP21 Agreeement.
3. Agree at CBD COP13 (Mexico 2016) on a process to formulate a ‘Protocol on Agricultural Diversification’ to the Convention on Biological Diversity, 1992. In principle, six specific Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) identified in SDA 2030 can be directly related to the diversification of agriculture beyond the major crops grown as monocultures. As yet, there is no integrated action plan for exactly how such agricultural diversification can help meet the targets for these six SDGs. CFF is spearheading a global effort to launch GAPAD to address the above six SDGs. SDG13 underpins all CFF activities and SDG17 identifies the basis for GAPAD. Particular CFF programs address specific targets in SDGS 2, 7, 12 and 15. CFF has established the world’s first facilities dedicated to evaluate the potential of a range of underutilised crops under +3°C climate scenarios. CFF research and GAPAD offer the international community an opportunity to expand beyond `development silos’ that are based on only the world’s major crops. Instead, they provide the focus for a common, cross-cutting and coherent strategy to integrate climate change responses and impact reduction into global plans for agricultural diversification. Specific underutilised crops may help agriculture to adapt to climate change by increasing the resilience of agroecosystems to withstand the combined impacts of drought and temperature extremes. MDBCONNECTS 1ST ISSUE 2016
35
BUILD YOUR OWN IT DEVELOPMENT TEAM WITH VEDEL IT
it's all about talent
Vedel IT is a Scandinavian Owned Company founded in 2006. The Malaysian office is located in the heart of Kuala Lumpur at Menara Citibank. Our aim is to establish excellence in IT Recruitment for companies in need of ongoing development.
1oo% IT Focus
Access to an extensive network of IT Professionals ensuring high quality candidates.
Technical Software Test You save time & resources via perfect matching of candidates skillset.
1O years experience in IT Recruitment Consultative approach with In depth IT knowledge. We understand the importance of soft skills matching.
Highhit ratio Heavily screened candidates and high quality resumes - effective time management for you.
We make our clients more profitable and competitive. Our goal is becoming the major KL provider of highend IT resources to clients with ongoing needs for IT resources.
MY SERVICES - BUSINESS SERVICES Not all MDBC member-companies are involved in bilateral trade or investments; a very important part of the MDBC community is our service providers. They provide the services (or products) which all organisations, and often especially the potential Dutch investors in Malaysia, require. The ease of doing business within the MDBC community has substantially increased thanks to our service providers. This page is specially dedicated to them.
Relocation Services FELIX RELOCATIONS
Talent Assessment Consultancy CUBIKS
Logistics Provider DACHSER MALAYSIA
No 17, Jalan PJS 7/20B Bandar Sunway 46150 Petaling Jaya Selangor Darul Ehsan
Level 21 - 1 Menara Prestige No 1 Jalan Pinang 50450 Kuala Lumpur
Suite 801 - 3, Level 8, Tower 1, Wisma AmFirst Jalan SS7/15 (Jalan Stadium), Kelana Jaya 47301 Petaling Jaya Selangor Darul Ehsan
Tel: +603 - 5636 5511 Fax: +603 - 5632 7795 malaysia@felixrelo.com www.felixrelo.com
Tel: +603 - 2176 5200 Fax: +603 - 2176 5201 www.cubiks.com
Tel: +603 - 7803 0102 ext. 110 Fax: +603 - 7803 0507 connie.koo@dachser.com.my www.dachser.com.my
A pioneer in the relocation industry in the 1980s, Felix Relocations has since evolved into a renowned domestic and international service provider, servicing a countless number of families, corporations and governments in their relocation exercises throughout the world. Fully licensed and insured, Felix Relocations has the knowledge, people, and years of experience in the art of moving at the right cost, time, and quality.
Cubiks - People Matter We are a specialist in talent assessment: our scientific, data - rich solutions provide unique insights that enable clients to truly understand their people, predict the impact that they will make and harness their skills for maximum business impact. We streamline the talent selection processes and super - charge development to help employers attract, select, develop and retain the best talent to shape and drive their business forward.
Legal Service Provider
Branding
CHUR ASSOCIATES
Having a strong global network of 471 worldwide locations and 25,000 DACHSER Logistics employees, we strive to produce intelligent and environmentally oriented total logistics solutions. Air and sea freight is an integral component of DACHSER’s global logistics.
LISETTE & INK
278 Jalan Sepakat Taman United 58200 Kuala Lumpur
8A Jalan Kemuja Off Jalan Bangsar 59000 Kuala Lumpur
Tel: +603 - 7982 5618 Fax: +603 - 7982 5148 consult@churassociates.com www.churassociates.com
Tel: +603 - 2283 4698 Fax: +603 - 2283 4699 info@beautiful-linc.com www.beautiful-linc.com
Chur Associates believes in effective communication and managing clients’ expectations. We believe that educating clients is of the utmost importance which in turn, builds trust, confidence and a close acquaintance. We thrive in delivering sustainable, business friendly solutions and have a niche positioning of “Everything Real Estate”, serving the entire value chain from upstream to downstream.
Founded in 1930, DACHSER is a German family owned company and offers its customers Intelligent Logistics Solutions.
We have opinions and they’re valuable. That’s why our clients keep coming back to us. We stand for: no ass - kissing, being honest and straight forward, fighting to deliver the best work, not compromising and making it real, creating far - reacing campaigns, believing in our clients, keeping it personal, loving your customers and doing it all with an incredible eye for detail.
NEED A RELIABLE PARTNER FOR KEY BUSINESS SERVICES? THESE MDBC MEMBERS ARE JUST A PHONE CALL AWAY! MDBCONNECTS 1ST ISSUE 2016
37
NEW MEMBERS
WARM WELCOME
As always, we constantly expand to include new and interesting partners as part of our international community of business professionals, allowing our members to find more opportunities for success. To that end, we would like to extend a very warm welcome to the MDBC Community for the following new members:
APM AUTO PARTS MARKETING
APP TIMBER
ASIA SCHOOL OF BUSINESS
38
MDBCONNECTS 1ST ISSUE 2016
BUSINESS ACTIVITY: APM is an automotive components manufacturer who’s poised to make a bigger splash in the regional area and also set the scene for global recognition. APM has made the transition to become a regional and global supplier. All our manufacturing units have been awarded the ISO14001 & TS16949 certification, an added testimony that we are serious about our commitment. A strong OEM presence in Malaysia, coupled with manufacturing facilities already firmly established in the region has helped APM’s efforts in the local replacement as well as export market.
CORPORATE REPRESENTATION David Haswell Brown, General Manager
BUSINESS ACTIVITY: APP Timber’s core business is the supply of imported logs, timber, veneers and panel products for the Asian timber industry. We source from all around the world and carry a full range of temperate hardwoods and softwoods products. With its HQ in Kuala Lumpur, APP Timber runs marketing operations and warehousing across the whole of Asia. In addition to having a deep knowledge about timber and related products, our sales teams are well experienced in manufacturing and can provide expert knowledge on the selection of raw materials, machining and finishing to our buyers.
CORPORATE REPRESENTATION Michael Hermens, Managing Director Malte Herrmann, Director Sales & Marketing
BUSINESS ACTIVITY: A collaboration with MIT Sloan, the Asia School of Business (ASB) merges the power of Asian ambition with the best in Western education to produce Asia ready change makers and entrepreneurs. The mission of ASB is to be a global knowledge and learning center infused with regional expertise, insights and perspectives of Asian and emerging market economies. To companies, ASB offers ample opportunities to partner with the school: through Action Learning Projects, speaking engagements, executive education, and research.
CORPORATE REPRESENTATION Willem Smit, Assistant Professor of Marketing
CONTACT: Lot 1, Jalan Raja Lumu Pandamaran Industrial Estate, P.O. Box 144 42008 Port Klang Selangor Darul Ehsan Tel: +603 - 3161 8888 Fax: +603 - 3166 2323 Email: apmmm@apm.com.my Website: www.apm.com.my
CONTACT: 21 Jalan Utarid U5/11 Mah Sing Industrial Park 40150 Shah Alam Selangor Darul Ehsan Tel: +603 - 7847 4716 / 61 Email: info@apptimber.com Website: www.apptimber.com
CONTACT: 2 Jalan Dato Onn Sasana Kijang 50480 Kuala Lumpur Tel: +603 - 9179 4110 Email: info@asb.edu.my Website: www.asb.edu.my
NEW MEMBERS
DEWINA HOST SDN BHD
DOUBLETREE RESORT BY HILTON PENANG
DYAS B.V.
JOHOR PETROLEUM DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION
BUSINESS ACTIVITY: Dewina Host is primarily involved in food & beverage services and has an extensive operating history in the Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) since 1998.
CORPORATE REPRESENTATION Iwan Kruiswijk, General Manager Saraswathi Ragupathi, Human Resources Manager
We currently operate a total of 13 food and beverage outlets at KLIA 1 and KLIA 2. We manage numerous concepts such as Burger King, The Chicken Rice Shop, Popeyes, Toast Box, Taste of India, Cafe Barbera, Food Paradise, Kopi Time, Noodles, Hot Wok and Beverage Station.
CONTACT: AP 4B, Level 3, Main Terminal Building Kuala Lumpur International Airport 64000 Sepang Selangor Darul Ehsan
BUSINESS ACTIVITY: DoubleTree Resort by Hilton Penang is set in the dynamic northern beach area of Penang, just 45 minutes from Penang International Airport and the Bayan Lepas business district and the SPICE Convention Centre. The UNESCO World Heritage site of George Town, and the shopping, entertainment and nightlife of Gurney Drive or Batu Ferringhi are a convenient 20 minute drive away.
CORPORATE REPRESENTATION Linda Giebing, General Manager Clara Yip, Business Development Manager
The 319 rooms and suites all have WiFi and many feature a private furnished balcony and partial or full sea views.
Tel: +603 - 8776 6625 Fax: +603 - 8787 4218 Email: dewinahost@dewinahost.com.my
CONTACT: 56, Jalan Low Yat 11100 Batu Ferringhi Penang Tel: +604 - 892 8000 Fax: +604 - 892 8033 Email: DoubleTreePenang.info@hilton.com Website: penangresort.doubletree.com
BUSINESS ACTIVITY: Dyas is a privately owned active non operating minority partner and investor in oil and gas exploration and production projects. With its strong technical and financial capabilities, Dyas aims to grow long term production and developed reserves in a solid portfolio of assets.
CORPORATE REPRESENTATION Georg Zielinkski, Business Development Director
Dyas has a diverse portfolio of assets primarily located in The Netherlands and the UK, both on and offshore. In line with its strategy, Dyas is actively pursuing investment opportunities in Malaysia.
Tel: +31 (0) 302 338 434 Email: dyas@shv.nl Website: www.dyas.nl
BUSINESS ACTIVITY: The Johor Petroleum Development Corporation Berhad (JPDC) is a specialized body under the Prime Minister’s office tasked with planning and developing strategies for the downstream oil and gas development in Johor.
CORPORATE REPRESENTATION Mohd Yazid Ja’afar, Chief Executive Officer Rosman Mohd Sedek, Head of Department
JPDC also coordinates and drives the execution of development projects, identifies and manages the funds required for financing the downstream oil and gas development in Johor, and promotes and markets Johor’s downstream oil and gas industry to potential investors.
CONTACT: Rijnkade 1 3511 LC Utrecht The Netherlands
CONTACT: Suite 17.03 A, 17th Floor, Menara MSC Cyberport No 5 Jalan Bukit Meldrum 80300 Johor Bahru Johor Darul Ta’zim Tel: +607 - 267 2900 Fax: +607 - 267 2999 Email: enquiries@jpdc.gov.my Website: www.jpdc.gov.my MDBCONNECTS 1ST ISSUE 2016
39
NEW MEMBERS
WARM WELCOME
As always, we constantly expand to include new and interesting partners as part of our international community of business professionals, allowing our members to find more opportunities for success. To that end, we would like to extend a very warm welcome to the MDBC Community for the following new members:
BUSINESS ACTIVITY: LT Travel & Tours (M) Sdn Bhd is a full service corporate and leisure travel agent operating in Malaysia since 1990. Our services range from supplying corporate travel services to major multinational companies in addition to providing leisure holiday services to the retail market.
LT TRAVEL & TOURS
We also offer niche sports travel to global sporting events as well as having a well established corporate incentive division.
BUSINESS ACTIVITY: Lumileds is the global leader in light engine technology. The company develops, manufactures and distributes groundbreaking LEDs and automotive lighting products that shatter the status quo and help customers gain and maintain a competitive edge.
SDN BHD
MAX ZEE SDN BHD
40
MDBCONNECTS 1ST ISSUE 2016
CONTACT: 26 - 6 Jalan Metro Pudu Fraser Business Park Off Jalan Yew 55100 Kuala Lumpur Tel: +603 - 9222 2333 Fax: +603 - 9222 5388 Email: general@lttravel.com.my Website: www.lttravel.com.my
(M) SDN BHD
LUMILEDS MALAYSIA
CORPORATE REPRESENTATION Walter Lim Kim Swee, General Manager Liam Hayes, Assistant General Manager
With a rich history of industry “firsts�, Lumileds is uniquely positioned to deliver lighting advancements well into the future by maintaining an unwavering focus on quality, innovation and reliability. BUSINESS ACTIVITY: Max Zee, an international marine salvage and wreck removal company, is a Malaysian company with roots in The Netherlands. As a medium sized company, Max Zee has a very strong network of professionals in Asia and Europe. Our team consists of Salvage Masters and Engineers, Naval Architects and Dive Masters. Thriving on hands - on mentality in combination with innovative solutions, Max Zee emphasizes the collaboration with local communities and companies. Our projects include Consultancy, Emergency Response, Salvage and Wreck Removal.
CORPORATE REPRESENTATION Scott Jon Boedigheimer, Managing Director Iruthayadas Arulanadam, Site Financial Controller CONTACT: No 3 Lintang Bayan Lepas 8 Industrial Park Bayan Lepas, Fasa 4, Mukim 12 11900 Georgetown Penang Tel: +604 - 605 3053 Fax: +604 - 641 1807 Email: scott.boedigheimer@lumileds.com Website: www.lumileds.com CORPORATE REPRESENTATION Capt. Max Duursma, Director CONTACT: 9 Jalan P 1 43300 Seri Kembangan Selangor Darul Ehsan Tel: +6019 - 396 6721 Email: info@maxzee.org Website: www.maxzee.org
NEW MEMBERS
PAQUES ASIA PACIFIC SDN BHD
PENGERANG INDEPENDENT TERMINALS
TNO SOUTH EAST ASIA
BUSINESS ACTIVITY: Paques helps companies and municipalities contribute to the major challenges of today: to reduce their water and carbon footprints and reclaim valuable resources. Paques does this by developing ingenious anaerobic water purification systems that produce energy from wastewater, whilst purifying the water and facilitating water reuse. The biogas produced in the purifying process is a source of green energy. Paques is a world market leader in the field of anaerobic purification plants. It has a strong position in the brewing and food industries, and in the paper sector.
CORPORATE REPRESENTATION Robert van As, Managing Director
BUSINESS ACTIVITY: Pengerang Independent Terminals Sdn Bhd officially began operations following the successful commissioning and start up in April 2014. This new facility offers approx. 1.3 million cubic metres of independent storage for liquid petroleum products. It offers competitive advantage through its natural location. The site is a natural hub protected from monsoons throughout the year and with a max depth of up to 23 metres - an ideal location to accommodate Very Large Crude Carriers. It will offer the first independent crude oil storage in the region together with direct VLCC berthing capabilities.
CORPORATE REPRESENTATION Law Say Huat, Chief Executive Officer
BUSINESS ACTIVITY: TNO is an independent research organisation that employes some 3,000 specialists. We believe in the joint creation of economic and social value. We focus on transitions or changes in five social themes: Industry; Healthy Living; Defence; Safety & Security; Urbanization and Energy. Innovation with purpose is what TNO stands for. We develop knowledge not for its own sake, but for practical application. TNO connects people and knowledge to create innovations that boost the competitive strength of industry and the well being of society in a sustainable way.
CORPORATE REPRESENTATION Ronnie van Munster, Business Developer Peter van Hooft, Managing Director
BUSINESS ACTIVITY: Uber is evolving the way the world moves.
CORPORATE REPRESENTATION Leon Foong, General Manager Lakshmi Patmarajah, Head of Marketing & Partnerships
By seamlessly connecting riders to drivers through the Uber app, Uber makes cities more accessible, opening up more possibilities for riders and more business for drivers.
UBER MALAYSIA
From its founding in 2009 to its launches in hundreds of cities today, Uber’s rapidly expanding global presence continues to bring people and their cities closer.
CONTACT: Level 36 Menara Citibank 165 Jalan Ampang 50450 Kuala Lumpur Tel: +603 - 2169 6331 Email: kloffice@pacques.com.my Website: www.paques.nl
CONTACT: Lot PTD 4837 Jalan Persiaran Terminal 81600 Pengerang Kota Tinggi Johor Darul Takzim Tel: +607 - 824 2000 Fax: +607 - 824 2001
CONTACT: 3 Science Park Drive #02 - 12 / 25 Unit 21 The Franklin Singapore Science Park 1 118223 Singapore Tel: +65 - 9832 2023 Email: ronnie.vanmunster@tno.nl Website: www.tno.nl/en
CONTACT: 116 Jalan Bukit Pantai 59100 Kuala Lumpur Email: supportkl@uber.com Website: www.uber.com
MDBCONNECTS 1ST ISSUE 2016
41
PICTURE PERFECT
The NY reception for our MDBC Penang Chapter took place at a wonderful setting - the Sunset Bar of the Parkroyal Penang Resort in Batu Ferringhi!
42
MDBCONNECTS 1ST ISSUE 2016
New Year! What an excellent start to the year 2016 it was! MDBC New Year receptions never fail to attract an excellent crowd. More than 150 members and invited guests from government, diplomatic and corporate community joined the celebrations at the start of MDBC’s 20th anniversary at the residence of the Netherlands Ambassador.
MDBCONNECTS 1ST ISSUE 2016
43
LET’S FUEL THEIR IMAGINATION TO THINK OF MORE INNOVATIVE ENERGY SOLUTIONS. How do we meet the growing energy needs of the modern world? Not just for today, but long into the future? It’s a complex question to which there is no simple answer. Whatever happens collaboration is essential. And a better mix of different, sustainable energies. At Shell we’ve been working with schools and universities around the world for more than 25 years on the Shell Eco-marathon – an innovative competition that challenges students to design, build and drive some of the most economical vehicles possible. The current record holder is capable of travelling 3771 km on the equivalent of one litre of fuel. It’s an incredible figure. But one we hope to beat this year. And is an example of how we’re working together to help develop a mix of energies that can power and sustain all our lives long into the future. Let’s broaden the world’s energy mix.. www.shell.com/letsgo