Issue 85 - Jan 2017 by Property Hunter Magazine

EAST MALAYSIA’S LEADING PROPERTY PORTAL, MAGAZINE & EXPO

Special Feature

WELCOME TO

SABAH! THE NEXT INVESTMENT DESTINATION IN THE REGION

KUDAT RIVIERA Sabah’s Hidden Gem Headquarters: Kota Kinabalu

Setting Up An International Business No Good Properties Below 350K In KK?

“WHO SAYS?” SUITE DREAMS:

Buying A Hotel Room As An Investment ISSUE 85 RM9.50 (Inc GST)

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Disclaimer, Permission & Reprints: This publication is not an investment advice. It is intended only to inform and illustrate. No reader should act on the basis of any matter contained in this publication without first seeking appropriate professional advice that takes into account their own particular circumstances.The publisher and editors give no representations and make no warranties, express, or implied, with responsibility of any of the material (including statistics, maps, articles, loan product tables, advertisements and advertising features) contained in this publication. The publisher and editors expressedly disclaim all responsibility for any errors in or omissions from the information contained in this publication, including all liability for any loss or damage suffered or incurred by any person as a result of or arising out of that person placing any reliance, weather whole or partial, upon the whole or any part of the contains of this publication. No correspondents will be entered into a relation to this publication by the publishers, editors or authors. The publishers do not endorse any company, organisation, person, investment strategy or technique mentioned in this publication unless expressly stated otherwise. The publishers do not endorse any advertisements or any special advertising features in this publication, nor does the publisher endorse any advertiser(s) or their products / services unless expressly stated to the contrary. Articles are published in the reliance upon the representations and warranties of the authors of the articles and without our knowledge of any infringement of any third party’s copyright. The publishers and editors do not authorise, sanction, approve or countenance any copyright infringement. This publication is protected under the Law of Malaysia Act 332 Copyrights Act 1987 and may not, in whole or part, be lent, copied, photocopied, reproduced, translated or reduced to any electronic medium or machine-readable format without the express written permission of the publisher. Copyrights 2013 Maxx Media (S) Sdn Bhd. All rights reserved.

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CONTENTS FEATURED EVENT | 10

HARBOUR CITY, MELAKA’S ATTRACTIVE ISLAND GETAWAY

FEATURED EVENT | 12

LIFE IN THE FRONT ROW WITH “THE ROBERTSON”

FEATURED EVENT | 14

VIBRANT URBAN LIVING WITH WCT

FEATURED EVENT | 16

MIEA Sabah Nite 2016

CONTRIBUTOR | 22 SPECIAL FEATURE | 28

On A Budget? Renovating Tips To Achieving Your Dream Home WELCOME TO SABAH! The Next Investment Destination In The Region

CONTRIBUTOR | 36

3 Major Australian Infrastructure Projects to Buy Property Around

CONTRIBUTOR | 44

HeadQuarters: kota kinabalu! Setting Up An International Business

CONTRIBUTOR | 54

Where to Invest in Australia: Regional Or Metropolitan Areas?

INTERVIEW | 62 FEATURE | 70

DATUK FRANCIS GOH TORA : Flexible In Design, Customised Just For You

CONTRIBUTOR | 76

Buying a hotel room as an Investment?

CONTRIBUTOR | 80

NO GOOD PROPERTIES BELOW 350K IN KK? “WHO SAYS?”

Featured Property | 84 hot topic | 94 CONTRIBUTOR | 98

KUDAT RIVIERA : Sabah’s Hidden Gem SUITE DREAMS : Buying A Hotel Room As An Investment BUY AN INVESTMENT PROPERTY FIRST BEFORE YOU BUY A DREAM HOUSE

Editor’s Note: In the “Malaysia Budget Report 2017” of Issue 84, it stated that the stamp duty exemption will be given until 31 December 2016 instead of the correct date of 31 December 2018. Property Hunter would like to apologise for this error.

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FEATURED EVENT

HARBOUR CITY, MELAKAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S ATTRACTIVE ISLAND GETAWAY By Property Hunter

Bringing intimacy, privacy and prestige to Pulau Melaka, Harbour City Resorts Suites will house a cosy yet spacious cluster of 500 luxury sky-rise villas.

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ulti award-winning

Kinabalu (Magellan Sutera), Sibu (RH

Harbour City Resort Suites is integrated

corporation, Hatten Group

Hotel) and Miri (Meritz Hotel) in June, July,

within the iconic Harbour City. A game-

Sdn Bhd, is one of the

August and October, respectively.

changer in Melaka’s luxury, tourism and

fastest-rising property

entertainment landscape, Harbour City

developers in the Malaysian real estate

With 18 luxurious unit types measuring

is Melaka’s largest mixed-used ‘city of

industry.

from 470 to 2,200 sq. ft., the villas

amusement’ which infuses three vibrant

offer you your own private sanctuary

elements, Play - Shop – Stay.

The esteemed group held private and

surrounded by picture perfect views,

exclusive previews of their development

charming interiors, complete leisure

in the major towns of East Malaysia,

facilities and seamless hospitality.

namely in Kuching (Pullman Hotel), Kota

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FEATURED EVENT

LIFE IN THE FRONT ROW WITH “THE ROBERTSON” By Property Hunter

The changing landscape of Kuala Lumpur has begun. Amidst the rapid transformation of Greater Kuala Lumpur, the age-old Jalan Pudu welcomes a rising symbol of modernization in a rich cultural heritage.

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itting comfortably on a 3-acre

Tawau and 12th & 13th November in

The project is expected to be

freehold land in the heart of

Sabah Hotel, Sandakan.

completed in 2018 at a starting price

Kuala Lumpur, The Robertson

from RM730,000 with attractive The Robertson comprises of 793

incentives such as free Sale and

residents with the balance between

contemporary residential pads across

Purchase Agreements (SPA) and loan

comfort and convenience, and aims to

two elegant towers, the North Tower

documentation, free legal fees, free

meet the demands of todayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s discerning

and South Tower. With its vibrant

maintenance for one year as well as

buyers.

green spaces, eco-friendly features and

easy payment and deferred payment

conveniences within reach, it is built to

schemes.

has been designed to provide

The Gamuda team held 2 private

cater to the fast-paced lifestyle of city

previews of its brainchild, The Robertson,

dwellers.

on 15th & 16th October in Fajar Club, www.PropertyHunter.com.my

FEATURED EVENT

VIBRANT URBAN LIVING WITH WCT By Property Hunter

With its second to none development, Waltz Residences is intelligently designed to balance the city life with better connectivity within its surroundings.

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ocated in a premier

well-established track record, we are

Upon its completion in 2020, Waltz

development in the heart of

confident that Waltz Residences will

Residences will be part of a larger 63-

Taman OUG (Overseas Union

be well-received by home-buyers and

acre Paradigm Garden City integrated

Garden), Kuala Lumpur, Waltz

investors alike.”

development, which will be anchored

Residences consists the North Tower

by a megamall, and complemented by

with 38 floors and South Tower with

The team held 2 private previews of

a corporate office tower, retail offices,

33 floors – that collectively houses 419

Waltz Residences; Sibu (RH Hotel)

luxury residences and hotel.

urban-chic residential units.

on 29th & 30th October and Kota Kinabalu (Magellan Sutera) on 5th & 6th

Managing Director of WCT Holdings

November to attract avid investors from

Berhad, Mr. Taing Kim Hwa, said, “Given

East Malaysia.

its strategic location as well as WCT’s www.PropertyHunter.com.my

FEATURED EVENT

MIEA Sabah Nite 2016 By Property Hunter

Improving the professionalism of real estate agents and creating a safe marketplace for property investors are on top of the list for City Hall.

ayor Datuk Yeo Boon Hai

by such individuals and has highlighted

Yeo said another way to curb such

addressed the issue on

such activities to City Hall.

practices will be through the licensing

illegal brokers’ signages

department, stating that they will “I also understand that the Board of

look into criteria and qualifications

the Malaysian Institute of Estate Agents

Valuers, Appraisers and Estate Agents

of individuals applying for trading

(Sabah) Nite at Pacific Sutera Hotel on

(BOVAEA) is working closely with local

licences for real estate agency, property

Friday, November 18.

councils throughout the country to

management firms and auctioneers.

around the city during

monitor such activities.” “I am aware that there are an estimated

“We will strive to work with MIEA Sabah

5,000 unregistered individuals doing

He added that the Malaysian

Branch to improve the professionalism

estate agency work throughout Malaysia.

Communication and Multimedia

of real estate agents and create a safe

These individuals promote their listings

Commission (MCMC) will also be able

marketplace for property investors.”

by hanging illegal banners on trees, lamp

to trace the handphone numbers on

posts and along roads.”

the illegal signboards and banners and

Also, present at the event was Organising

suspend their accounts.

Chairperson Rose Lai, MIEA national

Such activities damage public facilities,

President Erick Kho, MIEA Sabah Branch

cover road signs and dirty the

“It is very encouraging to note that the

Chairman Henry Tai and SHAREDA

environment. The MIEA Sabah Branch is

authorities are seriously acting on the

President Datuk Francis Goh.

concerned about the rampant practice

illegal practices of such individuals.”

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1. Left to Right:Prakash O C Rajaratnam, Sharon Goh, Stephen Wong, Sylvia Chung, Henry Tai, Soh Yuen Mee, Mary Yu, Rose Lai, Jannie Voo, Victor Wong.

2. Left to Right: Rose Lai, Jannie Voo, Victor Wong, Henry Tai, Soh Yuen Mee, Stephen Wong, Mary Yu, Sylvia Chung, Prakash O C

Rajaratnam, Sharon Goh.

3. VIPs of the night.

4. Mayor Datuk Yeo Boon Hai doing the ‘sumazau dance’ with distinguished guests.

Opening Act - Aikido Presentation by Rose Lai Realty.

5. The

6. Hair and Make-Up Show by CSL Real Estate. 7. Latin Dance by Network Realty

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PROPERTY NEWS

PROPERTY, INVESTMENT & BANKING NEWS KEEP TRACK OF THE TRENDS IN PROPERTY AND REAL ESTATE

Sabah

SB IN

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International

Sarawak BK

West Malaysia

Banking & Investment

KK City Hall Tears Down Illegal Structures in Kepayan The Kota Kinabalu City Hall

Water Department, Land and

(DBKK) has demolished 29

Survey Department, and the

illegal structures in Kampung

police.

Bunga Raya, Kepayan, three weeks after the squatters

“We served them the eviction

defied the eviction notice,

notice on Oct 19 to vacate the

as reported in New Sabah

area within a week, but we

Times.

extended it until today (Nov 7th) on humanitarian ground.

Its enforcement director, Abdul Mukti Muchlish said

“We have referred to JHAINS

that the number includes a

on the status of the surau

surau and a community hall

and we were told that it was

(balai raya).

built without permission from

supply and water supply

Some 29 illegal squatters were demolished after eviction notice. (Photo is NOT of the illegal structures in Kepayan)

holders.

the department,” he said

by SESB and the Water

According to him, the

yesterday adding that the

Department which were

“We will be issuing notice

demolition operation was

squatters decided to demolish

connected illegally.

to the illegal workshops in

conducted in collaboration

the structures themselves.

with the Sabah Islamic Affairs

this area very soon,” he said Abdul Mukti said that most of

adding that the City Hall is

Department (JHEAINS), Sabah

Also being carried out were

the squatters in the area were

monitoring the squatter

Electricity Sdn Bhd (SESB),

disconnection of electricity

illegal immigrants and IMM13

situation from time to time.

Malaysia Ranks 23rd in World Bank’s List of Doing Business Malaysia is ranked 23rd out

He said the report continues

of 190 economies in the

the ongoing process of

World Bank’s 2017 Doing

introducing improvements

Business Report (DB 2017),

involving 10 of the 11 DB

down a notch from its 22nd

indicator sets.

position last year, as reported in Borneo Post.

Based on the improved measurements, Malaysia’s

At 23rd spot, Malaysia is

23rd placing was based on

ahead of countries such as

a Distance to Frontier (DTF)

Switzerland (31st), France

score of 78.11 in DB 2017.

Kuala Lumpur

the post-filing processes (what

under the “Getting Electricity”

United Arab Emirates (26th),

This is, in contrast, to 22nd

happens after a firm pays

indicator.

Japan (34th), Thailand (46th),

out of 189 economies in the

taxes) such as tax refunds, tax

China (78th) and India (130th),

DB 2016, with a DTF score of

audits and administrative tax

Last year, the country was also

said Malaysia Productivity

78.18.

appeals.

one of the best performers on

Under the old methodology,

“A gender dimension has

Malaysia was ranked 18th in

been included in four of the

Malaysia is also acknowledged

the DB 2016.

11 indicator sets which sees

as having made paying taxes

Starting a Business, Registering

easier by enhancing the

Mohd Razali Hussain said the

Property and Enforcing

electronic system for filing and

DB 2017 further refined the

Contracts presenting a gender

paying the goods and services

methodology this year with

dimension for the first time

tax (GST).

the “Paying Taxes” indicator

this year,” he added.

(29th), Netherlands (28th),

Corporation (MPC) directorgeneral, Datuk Mohd Razali Hussain. Malaysia is also ranked second in Asean in the report after Singapore and 7th in the Asia Pacific after New Zealand, Singapore, Hong Kong, South

this index.

The country is also recognised

Korea, Taiwan and Australia.

expanded and gender dimension being added in

Meanwhile, Malaysia is

as one of the economies to

Mohd Razali told a media

three of the 11 indicators.

credited alongside Japan as

have introduced the bureau

briefing this here yesterday to share the methodology and highlights of the DB 2017.

being the best performers on

or registry credit scores as a

“The Paying Taxes indicator set

the “Reliability of Supply and

value-added service

has been expanded to cover

Transparency of Tariffs Index” www.PropertyHunter.com.my

NEWS

Affordable Housing and the Emergence of a New Norm

It is safe to say that private

and subsequent housing

average of 7%. This growth

in their bid to achieve their

developers have been

loans, transparency in house

rate is deemed strong,

sales targets — the majority

subdued post-Budget 2017.

prices for loan assessments

considering that it averaged

of products in the pipeline

Industry players, investors

and cessation of developer

only 3.5% in the 1999-2006

are priced below RM1 million

and homebuyers had

interest bearing schemes.

period (latest available

(in fact, many developers are

historical data).

focusing on building homes

been looking forward to some goodies, particularly

Bank Negara Malaysia also

initiatives that would

changed the mortgage

In Bank Negara’s 2015 annual

However, these projects

increase liquidity such as the

assessment method from

report, it provided rental

are located beyond a 20km

easing of lending regulations

gross to net pay and reduced

market statistics (which were

radius of Kuala Lumpur city

and a bigger Employees

the maximum tenure for

not available in its earlier

centre.

Provident Fund Account

property loans from 45 years

annual reports) and a recent

2 allocation. Instead, the

to 35 years.

Bank Negara workshop was

Catering for the affordable

priced below RM600,000).

told that finding alternatives

housing market, however,

Nevertheless, during this

to homeownership,

does come at a cost for the

period, the market saw one

including a well-functioning

developers as they have to

of the highest transaction

rental market, is crucial. It

sacrifice prized land and

growth rates, and banks

appears that the central

squeeze margins. They are

Edge Property.

were in an aggressive growth

bank has taken the stance

forced to seek land further

mode, given the low loan-

that while the promotion of

away from the city centre, in

While there have always been

deposit ratio and manageable

homeownership is good, it is

less developed areas like the

social housing elements in

household debts (which

more important that buyers

southern part of the Klang

almost every budget, one

were more than sufficient

do not take on unsustainable

Valley or even the Greater

should note that there has

to counter the cooling

levels of debt in doing so.

Klang Valley.

been a stronger push in

measures). Property demand

this area since 2011, when

was fuelled by purchases by

Branding And Innovation

Even so, it may not be

the government introduced

first-time homebuyers.

In view of the latest

commercially viable to build

developments, including the

homes priced at RM300,000

Prior to this, after the

aggressive social housing

and below in key urban areas

1997/98 Asian financial crisis

policy adopted by the

like the Klang Valley, Penang

and the 2000/02 dot com

government, developers will

and Johor, given the high cost

bust, the biggest stimulus

have to come up with more

of land.

However, it raises the

for the property sector

innovative ways to meet their

question of whether private

was introduced in 2006

sales targets. In this respect,

Land cost now constitutes

developers will see any

— the Foreign Investment

those with strong branding

10% to 17% of the gross

incentives in the coming years.

Committee’s approval was

and deep pockets will likely

development value (GDV) of a

waived for properties priced

project, compared with below

Looking Back

gain market share at the

more than RM250,000. Full

expense of smaller-sized or

12% for land acquired 5 to 10

Let’s take a look at past

waiver of RPGT was given the

niche developers.

years ago. During the boom

events to understand the

following year.

thrust of the budget is to address the needs of those in the bottom 40% income group, specifically affordable housing, as reported in The

schemes to promote homeownership (My First Home Scheme and Perumahan Rakyat 1Malaysia).

evolution of the country’s housing policy. After the 2008/09 global financial crisis, Malaysia has been steadily introducing tightening measures (2010 to 2014), starting with the first Real Property Gain Tax (RPGT) hike of 5% (effective January 2010). In the following years, there were more RPGT hikes as well as other measures such as the loan-to-value cap of 70% on the third

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In the 10 years from 1997 to 2006, the transacted value of residential properties grew at a compound annual growth rate of only 3.4% (2006 to 2015: 10.7%).

from 2010 to 2014, land Buyers who are financially

prices skyrocketed.

sound may find a lot of bargains now, but one should

With the weaker market

expect to hold on to the

sentiment, land prices have

property for more than five

somewhat stabilised but have

years.

yet to correct significantly. Landbanking activity has

Interestingly, the existing

also slowed down in the last

policies have steered the

one to two years as many

industry towards increasing According to the recently

developers believe that land

the supply of “affordable”

released House Price Index,

prices will go down further.

homes. In the last 18 months,

prices grew 5.3% in 2Q2016,

Landowners in need of cash

developers have ramped up

compared with the 10-year

may be pressured to dispose

the building of such homes

of their assets at lower prices.

Escalating land prices and

on the context. From the

high demand for affordable

government’s perspective,

housing have led to the

it means homes priced at

emergence of smaller

RM300,000 and below. But

residential units in major

for developers in the key

urban areas. Ten years ago,

urban areas, they believe

a typical 3-bedroom condo

homes priced below

had a built-up of more than

RM500,000 are affordable.

1,100 sq ft, but now, it is

Some even think it should

about 900 sq ft. In a bid to

include those priced at RM1

maintain their average selling

million and below!

price, developers are offering

PRIMA Project Kajang

even smaller homes like

As it is, developers are

1-bedroom units or studios

cautious about new launches

with build-ups of 400 to 800

and the market may soon be

sq ft. However, this may lead

deprived of new offerings.

to a proliferation of unlivable

If new launches continue to

units as the buyers get

decline, the secondary market

married and start a family.

may benefit in view of the incoming supply of properties

Secondary Market May Benefit

sold in 2013/14.

The definition of “affordable

In the meantime, the property

housing” varies, depending

sector is likely to see a new

norm and prices are expected

Sarah Lim is head of equity

to move sideways.

research at Kenanga Investment Bank Bhd. The

Be that as it may, a sign

views expressed in this article

to look out for is the

are her own.

land banking activity by developers. If this increases,

This article first appeared in

one can expect demand for

City & Country, a pullout of

property to be strong in the

The Edge Malaysia Weekly

near future.

Singapore’s Mall Vacancies Jump to Highest Level in a Decade Singapore mall vacancies

included shop space.

rose to the highest level in a decade in the third quarter

Demand for shopping space

as an oversupply of shop

is being denied as consumers

spaces added to muted

rein in spending amid

spending by shoppers, as

slowing growth and buyers

reported in Bloomberg.

increasingly turn to shopping online. That’s converging with

A gauge of mall vacancies

a rising supply of mall space,

rose 0.6 percent to 8.4

which threatens to further

percent in the three months

squeeze rents. Singapore will

ended Sept. 30, even as rents

add almost 4 million square

declined 1.5 percent in the

by tourists, especially those

feet of retail space over the

quarter, data from the Urban

from the mainland. Tourism

next three years, according

Residential rents dropped 1.2

Redevelopment Authority

spending fell for the first time

to data from Cushman &

in six years in 2015, even as

percent in the three months

showed Friday. That’s the

Wakefield.

tourist arrivals rose.

to Sept. 30 to the lowest

Sept. 2006, according to data

Tech Savvy

It’s not just the retailers

showed. Singapore home

compiled by Bloomberg.

Singaporeans are among the

feeling the heat. Office

prices dropped by the most

landlords too are struggling

in more than seven years as

to maintain rents amid rising

developers offered discounts

supply. Office vacancies rose

amid signals from the

to the highest in more than

government that it won’t roll

four years despite rents

back property kerbs initiated

sliding 1.1 percent in the

in 2009. The price index

quarter. Prices of office space

fell 1.5 percent in the third

decreased 0.4 percent in

quarter, the data show. That’s

the quarter compared with

unchanged from preliminary

a 1.5 percent decline in the

figures published on Oct. 3.

highest vacancy rate since

The Urban Redevelopment Authority in 2014 started including food and beverage, entertainment and fitness outlets to its retail space data, which it backdated to the first quarter of 2011, according to an e-mailed statement. Prior to 2011, the statistics only

Ion Orchard shopping mall (Singapore)

previous three months.

since June 2010, the data

most tech-savvy spenders in Asia, with a greater percentage shopping online than customers in Hong Kong and Malaysia, according to data from MasterCard. Singapore’s retail market is also reeling from the impact of China’s slowing economy, and a pullback in spending

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CONTRIBUTOR

On A Budget? Renovating tips to achieving your dream home We all have that vision of what our ideal home would look and feel like, how separate spaces in the house would function, and the type of interior design (ID) we would want to incorporate in our home. Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a gap between living in a house that you bought off the market and a home that you rebuild and renovate into your own. By CompareHero.my

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CONTRIBUTOR

While it may seem like a

daunting task (as it should be) and also an ambition that seems far out of reach because of the high capital required, we’re here to give you some guiding principles to help you achieve your dream home with minimal capital. But note this, if you want your dream home you will have to be willing to spend some money to invest in good quality materials, ID and workmanship.

01 02 Be practical

you really need it and is it practical?

Focus on home improvements that add value

Think about your goals for your home

The kitchen and bathrooms are sure

While the idea of that mansion or

grandeur chandelier is appealing, do

– do you want more space? Do you want to make it more functional? Don’t be so quick to tear down walls and embark on a huge renovation project –with an equally huge budget – if you can find practical solutions. For example, shifting your furniture around, painting walls, or even just decluttering your home can help make it a more functional space to be in.

winners to up the value of your home. Do your homework and get quotes from various contractors before deciding on a particular supplier. Upgrade your kitchen with stainless steel appliances and upgrade your bathroom to make it modern and sleek. Sure, it might seem like a hefty sum outright, but think about the upgrades you’re also making to the overall value of your home. There is no need to invest large amounts of money into home improvements that don’t matter, for e.g light fixtures.

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Don’t be afraid of secondhand or multifunctional furniture

Get help from a personal loan if you need

A personal loan is a great solution if you need a little bit of extra cash to help you finalise your dream home. Just be sure

You can find steals at second-hand

that you can afford to take on debt and

furniture stores, and with a little bit of

you’ll be able to make repayments. Head

sprucing up they can look great in your

over to the CompareHero.my website

home and add a whole lot of character.

to help you find a personal loan that

But what about multipurpose furniture

would fit your needs. Some loans, like

too? All it takes is a little bit of creativity

the UOB Personal Loan, offers affordable

and imagination and you can invest in

repayments from as low as RM125 and

a few solid pieces to serve more than

zero processing fees. If you really don’t

its intended purpose. Look at IKEA

want to drag the repayment tenure, opt

furniture hacks online and you’ll be

for a loan for as short as 1 year.

This article was contributed by CompareHero.my, a site dedicated to empowering Malaysians with financial literacy and the tools to make better financial decisions in life. Find and compare the best credit cards, personal loans and broadband plans on CompareHero.my today!

inspired by some ideas!

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NEWS

TNB, SESB Join Forces to Improve Power in Sabah If everything goes well,

Tuaran, Papar and here, with

Sabah may be experiencing

a reduction of SAIDI by 100

fewer power disruptions

minutes at each area by June

and increase customer’s

2018.

experience in the next 18 months, as reported in

Ongkili said 45 experts from

Borneo Post.

TNB and 15 from SESB would be deployed to the

Energy, Green Technology

focus areas to execute and

and Water Minister Datuk

fast track the upgrading

Seri Dr Maximus Ongkili in

projects, adding: “This is part

disclosing this, said efforts are

of the Federal Government’s

undertaken by the Tenaga

commitment to improving

Nasional Berhad (TNB) and

quality and sustainability of

Sabah Electricity Sdn Bhd

power supply in Sabah.”

(SESB) through their joint task

Substation (Photo for illustration purposes only)

“Currently, the first phase of

Energy Commission on

force to reduce the System

TF150 was set up on

TF150 has been completed

Monday, Ongkili added TF150

Average Interruption Duration

October 17 this year and

and moving towards the

is also tasked to find remedies

Index (SAIDI) to 150 minutes

will be carried out in three

second phase where all high

to existing problems such as

in the state by 2018.

phases. The first being the

impact initiatives with wow

replacing bare cables with

planning and preparation

effect to customers will begin

aerial bundled cables (ABCs),

Dubbed the Supply Reliability

phase, followed by phase

after the SPM (Sijil Pelajaran

among others.

Task Force – SAIDI 150

two – implementation and

Malaysia) examination ends

(TF150), it is also hoped

execution, which is expected

on December16. This is

“To date, as of November 6,

through the joint efforts, they

to be completed in within six

expected to be completed by

Sabah’s SAIDI is recorded at

would be able to achieve

months; and phase three –

June next year,” he said.

279 minutes, and we believe

the target by concentrating

monitoring and sustainability

efforts at focus areas namely

which would begin work from

Sandakan, Tawau, Labuan,

June 2017 to May 2018.

Kota Marudu, Kota Belud,

Bank Islam Aims to Expand in East Malaysia

we will be able to meet this Speaking after chairing a

year’s SAIDI target for Sabah

meeting attended by officials

is 350 per customer per year,”

from TNB, SESB, UPEN and

he said.

because of the

Domestic Product, a very

was set up in 1983, the big

system’s ethical

good achievement, while

challenge was educating the

and accountability

nearly 27 percent of the

public on the Islamic banking

principles, says

banking assets in the country

system, but now that nearly

Bank Islam Malaysia

are Islamic banking assets. We

all financial institutions in the

Bhd, as reported in

are confident Bank Negara

country have Islamic banking

Borneo Post.

Malaysia’s vision that by 2020

units, it has become easier for

Islamic banking will command

Bank Islam to strengthen its

Its chief strategy

40 per cent of the domestic

position and grow its market.

officer Hizamuddin

financial market will be

Jamalluddin said

achieved,” he told reporters

Bank Islam, now Malaysia’s

acceptance of the

when met at the Media

third largest Islamic financial

Islamic system will

Appreciation Night here.

institution, is keen to develop

continue to grow

Islamic banking and finance will continue to get a good response in multiracial, multi-religious Malaysia

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wakaf land in Sabah and

due to customers’

Hizamuddin said almost all

Sarawak in collaboration with

return considerations

financial institutions in the

the respective state Islamic

on Islamic financial

country now offer Islamic

religious council, just as it has

products.

banking services whether

done in Peninsular Malaysia,

through a subsidiary or

he added.

“Projects financed by Islamic

through window services.

financial institutions comprise one-third of the Gross

He said when Bank Islam

Villagers Take Part in Tsunami Alert Simulation Exercise Coastal Sabah faces the

Fire and Rescue Services

possibility of being struck

Department, the Civil Defence

by a tsunami in the event

Department, the Royal

of a massive underwater

Malaysian army, the Royal

earthquake or catastrophic

Malaysian police (RMP) and

seabed erosion, says the

other relevant agencies.

Sabah Meteorological Department.

Sabah Meteorological Department director Azemi

Its director, Azemi Daud, said

Daud said the simulation

the state has the potential of

exercise was found necessary

being struck by seismic sea

to ensure the public are

waves, based on scientific

aware of what they are

studies carried out by

required to do in an event of a

researchers across the globe.

tsunami in Putatan.

“According to some

He explained that only

“The size (of the tsunami) will

Azemi said that studies

experts’ claim, Kudat will

massive underwater

depend on the depth of the

conducted indicated that

experience tsunami waves

earthquakes measuring over

undersea quake. However,

Sabah may likely experience a

as high as 50 metres due

seven on the Richter scale

there is no way we can

tsunami in the future.

to several earthquakes in

could generate a threatening

the western part of the

tsunami.

forecast when exactly that will

An Earthquake-triggered tsunami in Northern Japan

“However, a comprehensive

Philippines. These factors

study is still needed and we

appear to be supported

More than 1,000 people from

are just preparing for any

after we experienced several

four villages in Putatan were

eventuality in the coming

landslides in the western part

awaken by a blaring sound

future,” he said, adding that

of Sabah,” he said.

of a siren on Saturday (Nov

Putatan was chosen as the

5) morning during a tsunami

residential areas are close to

Universiti Malaysia Sabah

alert simulation exercise that

the beach.

geologist Professor Dr Felix

take place.

Tongkul was reported to have

was held in conjunction with World Tsunami Day at Sri

Commenting on the possibility

said the possibility of the

Putatan community hall.

that Kudat would experience

Kudat coastal district being

tsunami in the near future,

slammed by a devastating

The simulation exercise, which

Azemi said his teams are still

tsunami is “quite low”

began at 8am, involved the

looking into the matter.

S P Setia Wins Tender for Land for RM620 Million

Location map of the piece of land acquired

S P Setia Berhad

The Land represents S P

medical institute, a

announced today (Nov 9)

Setia’s maiden entry into

university campus as well

that it had been notified

the mainland of Pulau

as a golf course.

by WTW Real Estate

Pinang and it is located

Sdn Bhd (“WTW”) of its

within the Butterworth-

The Land is planned for

successful tender bid

Sungai Petani Growth

an eco-themed mixed

of RM620 million for a

Corridor with good

development township

freehold land located

accessibility from North-

that has a potential gross

within the locality of

South Highway via Bertam

development value of

Seberang Perai Utara,

Interchange. The Land

RM9.6 billion spanning

Pulau Pinang measuring

is approximately 18km

over 15 - 20 years.

approximately 1,675

away from Butterworth

acres (“Land”). The Land

and 32km away from

tender was made through

the Penang Bridge. In

its subsidiary, Setia

addition, the Land is also

Recreation Sdn Bhd.

surrounded by existing townships, retail malls, www.PropertyHunter.com.my

Special feature

WELCOME TO SABAH! THE NEXT INVESTMENT DESTINATION IN THE REGION With its signature “Land Below the Wind”, a title derived from its location below the typhoon belt of East Asia, Sabah is currently one of the premier tourist destinations in the region. The secret of the fabulous destination is out and visitors with a taste for adventure visit each year from around the world. By PropertyHunter

www.PropertyHunter.com.my

SPECIAL FEATURE

Sabah (in East Malaysia) is one of the top Pacific destinations for adventure holidays. Sabah, once the UK colony of North Borneo, lets visitors experience tropical forests, deep caves, mountains and diving; and for the less adventurous, huge expanses of white sand beaches that slope into the blue South China Sea.

abah is known to tourists and expats alike as a nature lovers’ paradise with its

beautiful rainforests, captivating wildlife, and mesmerizing beaches. While it may not be a great location for those working (most job opportunities are in Peninsular Malaysia), many expats are choosing to retire in Sabah, and property developers have resorted into producing exotic properties to entice those looking to invest. However, Sabah offers a truly multicultural diversity with a population of 32 distinct indigenous tribes speaking 100 different patois due to centuries of migration, mixed marriages, pirate raids, isolation and trade. Another moniker, “Nature Hollywood” of the world, Sabah’s natural wonders also include Mount Kinabalu, the highest mountain in the Malay Archipelago, standing at 4,095 metres tall. Its clear blue waters, breathtaking, white sandy islands are also much renowned and loved by divers

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around the world.

LAND BELOW THE WIND

Kota Kinabalu, the State’s capital city, won’t immediately overwhelm you with its beauty, but one will notice its welcoming locals, amazingly colourful sunsets, blooming arts and music scene, and rich culinary cuisines from its local authentic dishes, Asian to Western and street food to high end. Kota Kinabalu houses the State’s main administrative and business centre. It is also the gateway to Sabah, with its direct flights to the national capital, Kuala Lumpur, and to other major cities in Asia, namely, Manila, Bandar Seri Begawan, Seoul, Taipei, Hong Kong, Shenzhen, Bali, Singapore and many more. Sandakan is a major town in the east. Its main economic activities are agriculture, wood processing, tourism and fishing. Tawau, another major town situated in

the south east, is also famous for agricultural activity and harvesting of oil palm and cocoa. According to the latest 2016 Retire Overseas Annual Index, Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia is listed as the 6th Best Place in the World to Retire. At present, Kota Kinabalu has much room for growth with a need for more robust infrastructure in transportation, property development, accommodation and leisure.

DID YOU KNOW? The Borneo tropical

rainforest is about 130

million years old, making

it one of the oldest tropical rainforests in the world.

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SPECIAL FEATURE

Key Focus Areas CORRIDOR • •

Increase high-yield, long-staying tourists High-end development (resorts, residences, etc)

• •

Promote high value-added dwonstream activities Eradicate poverty and create new job opportunities

AGRICULTURE

• •

Focus on food productions, especially aquaculture, high-value crops and livestock Added value from food packaging & processing

OIL, GAS & ENERGY

•

Complete the OGE value chain with dwonstream activities (petrochemical, transmission, etc)

EDUCATION

• •

Eradicate illiteracy through early child care and education Build skills to support the emerging industries (hospitality & tourism, OGE, agriculture, etc) and attract international students

•

Further grow manufacturing sector

TOURISM PALM OIL

MANUFACTURING & LOGISTICS

Source: Knight Frank Research

TOURISM, AVIATION AND LEISURE PAYOFFS

The State government aims to highlight air connectivity to encourage non-resource industries such as technology firms to operate in the State. Kota Kinabalu is only a few hours by air to any ASEAN capital and KKIA (Kota Kinabalu International Airport), is the country’s second-busiest aviation hub after Kuala Lumpur (KLIA).

The Minister of Tourism

International Airport (KKIA)

Malaysia Airports Holdings, the

and Culture, Nazri Aziz,

apron and the terminal was

airport operator, aims to increase

described Sabah as the “gem

announced early March, with

KKIA’s passenger-handling

of Malaysia’s tourism industry”.

10 additional overnight aircraft

capacity from 9 million to 16

The tourism sector is the third

parking bays on the cards.

million people over the next five

pillar of the State’s economic development plan, aiming to

Director of the Department of

leverage itself on the natural

Industrial Development and

beauty and unique wildlife

Research, Patrick Tan, says

to attract tourists looking for

that the airport has been the

pristine seas, mountains and

key to attracting tourists to

rainforest adventures.

the State.

According to a report by the Oxford Business Group (OBG), approximately 12 airlines fly internationally from Kota Kinabalu. An RM80 million expansion of the Kota Kinabalu

Visitors’ Arrival by Nationality January – August 2016 (Preliminary)

COUNTRY OF ORIGIN

STATISTIC VALUE

Asia

655,877

Oceania

21,774

Europe

56,489

North America

13,657

Middle East

1,889

Others

8,577

Malaysia

1,440,290

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years.

“Compared with Kuching or Brunei, Kota Kinabalu is the gateway to Borneo” – Patrick Tan.

FUN FACT

Kinabalu National Park

(or Taman Negara Kinabalu in the Malay language) was the first national park set-up in Malaysia in 1964.

Demographic Profile of International Visitors for 2016

Age Group

Gender

Purpose of Visit

21 – 30 (32.7%)

Male (42.4%)

Holiday (89.2%)

31 – 40 (24.8%)

Female (57.6%)

Meetings, Incentives, Conferencing,

Above 50 (16.5%)

Exhibitions (3.4%)

Travel Arrangements

TYpe of Visitors

Occupation

Travel Accommodation

FIT (58.6%)

First Visit (85.2%)

Professional / Technical (34.4%)

Paid accommodation

Package Tour (30.8%)

Repeat 14.8%

Student / Retired (21.3%)

(93.8%)

Mixture (10.7%)

Management / Administration (16.3%)

Source: Research Division for Sabah Tourism Board / Jan-Sept 2016 (Three Quarter YE June 2016) Note: 1) Only Direct Arrivals by Air into Kota Kinabalu International Airport (KKIA) were taken into consideration. 2) The above data is based on International Visitor Profile Survey 2016. 3) Sample Size: 3,651.

Tourists tend to gravitate towards

and leisure property development,

a place based on the rudiments

there is no better location in Sabah

of the 5As – attractions, activities,

than the Northern Corridor.

accommodation, access and amenities. Sabah fulfils all the

In an interview with Datuk K.L.

criteria, albeit its shortcomings

Tan, past chairman of MATTA

in achieving a higher growth

Sabah Chapter (2009 – 2013)

percentage in tourist arrivals to

and VP Inbound MATTA Malaysia

Sabah.

(2013 – 2015), he said that Kota Kinabalu is the main gateway for

The coastline north of Kota Kinabalu

leisure development especially in

has been compared to Gold Coast, a

the Northern Corridor, where it is

well-known tourist haven in Australia.

appropriately targeted for resort

It shares similar characteristics

development because of its clear

– long white sandy beaches and

blue waters and finer beaches.

clear blue waters. As a potential development corridor for tourism

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SPECIAL FEATURE

SABAH PROPERTY MARKET Property prices in Kota Kinabalu are

expected to be constant if there are no major changes to macroeconomic conditions and government policies. Moreover, prices are likely to hold as Kota Kinabalu is the state capital and the administrative, commercial, education and tourism hub, and gateway into Sabah. Sabah’s property market remains vibrant and dynamic, despite the slow-moving market conditions this year. Kota Kinabalu is expanding and becoming more densely populated. Overall, there are many good areas and land for development which will continue to be safe bets in the long run.

“In the long term, the residential market in K.K will remain resilient, driven by strong market fundamentals, investments in tourism infrastructure and the government’s efforts to provide the right infrastructure and to spur foreign and domestic investments” – Max Sylver Sintia. Rahim & Co. Sabah Branch Manager, Max Sylver Sintia, said that buyers, investors and developers have remained cautious, but at the same time, hopeful for better things to come. The property market in Kota Kinabalu is expected to see moderate activity and remain cautiously optimistic.

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According to Knight Frank Malaysia in its Real Estate Highlights report, the well-priced, mid-range and affordable residential properties are expected to be well-received by the market. Most of the investment interest would be focused in Kota Kinabalu, as it is the focal point for tourism, attracting people for education, business and employment opportunities.

Source: Knight Frank Research

5 Entry Point Projects have been identified for Greater Kota Kinabalu Sector

Modernizing KK City

Boosting Tourism Attractions

Improve Mobility and Travel

Health Tourism & Early Education

Entry Point Projects (EPPS)

GNI (RM million)

Jobs (#)

Private Investment (RM million)

Public Investment (RM million)

• • • • • • • • • •

Jesselton Waterfront project Sabah International Convention Centre KK City Crusie Terminal @ Jesselton KK City Waterfront development Pedestrian walkway & cycle way Internationa Technology Convention Centre Aeropod Sembulan river beautification and cleaning Extension of entertainment zone to new areas Green city & landscaping

1,656

22,100

783

• • • • • • • • • • •

Relocation & redevelopment of Pulau Gaya Ma’ang Hill Resort development YTL Resort in Pulau Gaya Karambunai Integrated Resort South China Sea Place (Ming Garden) Development of Kokol Hill Gondola at Inobong Substation, Penampang Expansion of diving academy Tanjung Dumpil Resort Water taxi, sports & maritime centre Development of Wet Market/Safma

2,454

10,348

362

• • • • •

Bus Terminal Wawasan Bus Terminal North - Inanam Bus Terminal South - Kepayan BRT System (BRT) One way traffic system

N/A

2,070

164

• • • •

Gleneagles Medical Centre KPJ Healthcare - Acquisition of SMC & Damai Specialist Public Hospital upgrades & extensions (4 Hospitals) Rollout for full paying patients (FPP) to boost revenue for Gov. hospitals & promote health tourism ECCE College at Kota Kinabalu 83 new preschools across Kota Kinabalu

548

2,006

1,100

• •

Source: Knight Frank Research

Sources: “Property Investors Resort to Spectacular Sabah” Property Frontiers, www.propertyfrontiers.com/whats-happening/ property-investment-news/property-investors-resort-tospectacular-sabah

“Sabah – Your Choice Investment Destination” Department of Industrial Development & Research (DIDR).PDF

“Knight Frank Real Estate 1H2016 Report” www.knightfrank. com.my

“Sabah: A State Apart” Oxford Business Group (2016), The Report Malaysia 2016,

www.sabahtourism.com

Department of Statistics Malaysia (Official Portal), www. statistics.gov.my

“Interesting Facts and Trivia About Sabah” www. amazingsabahborneotravel.com/about-sabah/interestingfacts-trivia.php

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Legends RESIDENTIAL

COMMERCIAL 16

MIXED DEVELOPMENT

KUD KUDAT DIVISION V

SOUTH CHINA SEA

WEST EST COAST DIVISION

INTERIOR DIVISION DIV

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Upcoming Development Projects For 2017 With the economy expected to start recovering in 2017, we can anticipate to see *46 new developments throughout Sabah. These developments range from residential to commercial to mixed developments. *Number of developments are subject to change.

SULU SEA

SANDAK ANDAKAN KAN DIVISION DIVIS ON N

TAWAU DIVISION VISION CELEBESS SEA

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CONTRIBUTOR

3 Major Australian Infrastructure Projects to Buy Property Around Growth in the Australian property market has slowed in the last two years as compared to the preceding decade. While little could go wrong by investing in property, no matter where your property is located, the situation has changed in recent times. A lot has to be weighed in. By Yaron Gal

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ou’re more likely to make money by considering locations which will see exponential growth in coming years. Most of the

markets are not as predictable as they were back then. Also, more importantly, you have to know how you can get in early to maximize the potential for growth. In property investing, one indicator of future growth is sprouting infrastructure projects in an area. Population spikes and lack of housing supply contribute to housing price hikes, but not like the announcement of a new train line or a motorway. Property growth infrastructure projects make suburbs explode and investors rich. “Infrastructure development is the most powerful creator of capital growth in real estate,’’ says property analyst, Terry Ryder. Usually, the most influential projects are transport infrastructure. If you follow the three Rs of real estate— Road, Rail Links and River Crossings— you can know where growth is going next. Using that criterion, I have cited 3 major property growth infrastructure projects in Australia that are likely to cause an improvement in the appeal of the property in their location.

In property investing, one indicator of future growth is sprouting infrastructure projects in an area.

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CONTRIBUTOR

Stage 2 of the Sydney Australia TradeCoast Metro Rail Project

in the minds of all property investors:

Stage 2 of Sydney Metro is slated to

I can tell you one thing. The only way

extend metro rail from the North West

is up from here. Brisbane’s property

region of Sydney to Bankstown. It comes

market is already feeling the flow of

with seven new modern metro stations,

people. Quoting from Brisbane Times,

some in areas with burgeoning real

“South-east Queensland must find

estate markets such as Waterloo.

700,000 homes for an extra 1.4 million

The train will increase accessibility to Sydney. It will be able to move large numbers of people to and from the city. This will translate into an increase in the population density of the area, thus, more renters.

Australia TradeCoast has been billed as Australia’s fastest growing trade and industrial region. Situated a few kilometres from the Brisbane CBD, the region boosts direct links to the Brisbane Airport, the Port of Brisbane, as well as road and rail networks. What’s more, it is home to 1,500 businesses and 60,000 employees—a number that’s expected to grow to 110,000 by 2026. The sprouting world-class infrastructure and expected growth on offer in the

Construction will begin in 2017. This gives you—the property investor— enough time to position yourself in order to benefit from this transformation. Areas that will benefit from this project include: Crows Nest, Victoria Cross, Barangaroo, Martin Place, Pitt Street, Liverpool, and Waterloo.

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region begs an important question

How is this going to affect Brisbane’s property market?

people within 15 years, Australia’s preeminent infrastructure body says.” Meanwhile, the median house price of Brisbane hit $635,000 over the June quarter—its record highest. The prospects for growth in the area are good for the coming years. The local economy should continue to grow due to the building boom throughout the Australia TradeCoast.

Regional Rail Link

feel in order to appreciate their impact.

My expectations are that in the next 1-2

That time has passed. The link is now

years, we are going to see home prices

The Regional Rail Link runs through

fully functional.

reveling in this potential.

One of its biggest impacts has been the

If you want to buy property in Australia

elimination of capacity problems.

while looking to the future, my advice

Melbourne, Victoria. It is yet to see significant growth since its completion in 2015, but all indications suggest that it’s coming.

is to inspect the infrastructure trail that The link provides access through the

the Government has mapped. The areas

western suburbs of Melbourne, with

around property growth infrastructure

exclusive tracks for the Bendigo, Ballarat,

projects are projected to grow notably in

and Geelong trains. This, as well, is a

the next three or four years.

big plus to what used to be a lowdown settlement. Apart from that, the city already has a lot to offer through its affordable lifestyle and great business district. This link has The multi-billion dollar link is one of those projects people needed to see and

only unlocked potential in its real estate that very few could foresee.

Yaron Gal began purchasing investment properties while working full-time and bought 4 investment properties within less than a year. He now works as a property strategist and helps individuals identify high growth properties for wealth creation. To get your FREE copy of the ‘Top Growth Hot Spots in Australia 2016”, simply email him at yaron@investinproperties.com.au

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NEWS

Boosting Tourism Attractions for ‘Timid’ Travellers Tourism attractions in West

Sabah International Offroad

Coast Sabah will be boosted

Challenge at the Sabah

to cater for the ‘timid’

Tourism Board building on

travellers in the state, as

Gaya Street here yesterday.

reported in Borneo Post. “What we are building or Tourism, Culture and

developing now is the choice

Environment Minister Datuk

for the ‘timid’ who are afraid

Seri Panglima Masidi Manjun

to go to the East Coast, so

said many were confused

they have goals and still feel

and were forgetful of the fact

fortunate to come to Sabah

that Sabah encompassed 22

because there are attractions

per cent of Malaysia’s total

available on the West Coast.

One o f the beautiful islands in Sabah

Masidi reiterated the people

that are beyond our control

“But remember, in spite of

have to accept the reality that

happens,” he said.

“Through my observation,

all the hyped safety issues,

no nation can give a 100%

currently tourism industry

resorts in Semporna islands

guarantee of the safety of

“So if I can deduce, Sabah is

investors have a tendency

are still full. So for me, that is

its respective countries and

safe to the extent of the term

to be on the West Coast

actually a manifestation of the

that shootings still happen in

‘within our control’,” concluded

because we actually have

true position. If the resorts are

the safe America, France and

the minister.

the attractions, beaches that

full on the East Coast, it means

Belgium, for example.

are more beautiful in Kudat,

people who come haven’t

Kota Belud, Kuala Penyu and

the slightest doubt about the

“Sabah has never stated that

so on,” said Masidi when

safety level over there,” the

it is safe. We are safe but from

officiating the Borneo Safari

minister emphasised.

time to time, indeed, incidents

geographical area.

Developers Want Cheap Land

Developers are willing

“Fifteen years ago, if I were to

to build low-cost and

buy a piece of land, I could use

affordable homes, but they

up to 60 per cent of the nett

want cheaper land from

land area for development.

the government to prevent

Today, with improved lifestyle,

their margins from shrinking

strict regulations and the need

further, as reported in New

for better roads and bigger

Straits Times.

drains, we are lucky to use 40 to 45 per cent”.

Eco World Development

Developers are willing to build low-cost and affordable homes, but they want cheaper land from the government. (Stock photo: for illustration purposes only)

Group Bhd president and chief

“In terms of density, the

executive officer Datuk Chang

land usage has come down

Khim Wah said developers

but in terms of overall cost,

operating officer Tang Chee

have no problems buying but

realise that they have to build

it has risen. It has gone up

Meng said there is still weak

it is the middle-income people

low-cost and affordable houses

because we are building more

affordability and low supply of

who are left behind.”

but their margins are being

infrastructure and providing

affordably-priced properties in

squeezed because of high land

broadband services”.

the market.

“It is not easy to keep cost

“The government’s policy is

the 1Malaysia People’s

“As a developer, the subsidy

down. It is very difficult to

to focus on low-cost housing

Housing Programme, the

for low-cost and affordable

manoeuvre and definitely

where 30 per cent of a

middle-income group is still

houses come from the

you will have to squeeze your

housing project are low-cost,

deprived from access to

normal-priced homes. The

margins if you want to do

but the middle-income group

affordable homes.

that,” said Chang.

has been left out”.

Henry Butcher Malaysia chief

“The higher-income people

and construction costs.

normal-priced homes today, compared to 15 years ago, are very different.

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Tang said although the government has introduced

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CONTRIBUTOR

HeadQuarters: kota kinabalu Our sleepy and peaceful little home of Kota Kinabalu has long touted itself as one of the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s ideal destinations for quiet leisure, or perhaps as a relaxed and laid back retirement spot. The slower pace of life has always appealed to those looking to recede back in time and experience a less congested atmosphere and commune with nature in the Sabahâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s multitude of ancient parks and exquisite beaches. Indeed, after a few shaky years for the sector, we are finally seeing tourists coming back in fast numbers, catching up to the boom years of tourism. By Joseph Bianculli

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ecent events for myself have encouraged me to look at Sabah from a completely different perspective: How well would Sabah, and Kota Kinabalu in particular, work as a location for setting up a headquarters for an international

business?

Now, I donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t expect any Blue Chip companies to come a-knocking, but how about a business like mine? An International Project Management and Development company, where most of the staff are traveling and a small core of administrative staff is all that is needed to maintain and keep things operating smoothly. After spending over a decade in and out of Sabah, including some considerable stretches of time while working in well over half a dozen countries simultaneously, I think I bring a unique perspective to this analysis. This is not meant to be scientific, as sometimes we should let our passions dictate something as important as where we will be living our lives.

So, on the idea of using Kota Kinabalu as a hub for a small international business, I decided to look at a few factors that would help in such a consideration, and examine them as objectively as I could, given my inherent bias in favor of being in Sabah:

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CONTRIBUTOR

Business Wise

two years ago. The future promises to offer even more opportunity, with Jesselton Quay and PaciFicity, two large-

Competent Staff

have to weed out a few early examples.

scale developments currently under

A common complaint in

Secondly, of course, is that you can

construction along the magnificent Likas

Sabah is the lack of qualified

recruit from elsewhere. Malaysia does

Bay. Those with a long-term vision and

staff. While this is probably

allow, in certain conditions and for

plans to be in Sabah for the next few

an argument that will be

certain positions, for companies to hire

years have much to look forward to.

endlessly circular and difficult to pick

expat staff under work visas (as I expect

a winner, I can say that in my personal

all of the Management would need).

experience there are two options. Firstly, like anywhere, if you are willing to pay above the market, you will almost always find excellent staff. Since the market in Sabah is exceedingly low, paying above it should be of little importance to a Global

Kota Kinabalu. Thankfully,

in the past few years, a few

operating out of the airport with, at last

Office Space Grade “A” office space continues to be lacking in

Air Links Kota Kinabalu International Airport is the second busiest airport in Malaysia. The new airport is very efficient and easy

to use, and there are at least 19 airlines

or Regional company. There are many

buildings have come up that are getting

count, 16 direct international destinations.

highly qualified Sabahans that have left

there. I’ll add my personal frustration that

So while you may be anything beyond a

for greener pastures elsewhere because

it’s impossible to get Grade “A” offices

regional company, you simply have one

of the lack of opportunities in the state,

with a Sea View, the most spectacular

more layover in your itinerary if you are

as well as a very low salary profile

feature of the City, but nonetheless,

going to points beyond. For some people,

compared to Kuala Lumpur, Brunei or

for those expecting something at least

this is a deal breaker, but I find that a few

Singapore. Attracting people locally with

presentable to international visitors

more extra hours of travel compared to

fair and just compensation should not

and acceptable to Expat staff, we are

the thousands of hours of living in a place

be exceedingly difficult, though you may

far better off today than we were just

like Sabah worth the additional hassle.

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some representation in Sabah and work efficiently. Larger items that need to be shipped to the port can create a hassle at times, but Sabah is a long way away from being a center for cargo transport. For the requirements of a small business, however, everything works quite well, especially between Sabah and Kuala Lumpur. Using the national mail service is cheap and, if you are using the tracking services, quite reliable.

Ease of Doing Business Malaysia ranks consistently high on the ease of doing business index. While Sabah has a few peculiar hoops to

jump through in order to incorporate, all of this is easily and professionally handled by many of the myriad of incorporation services in the State. In fact, it is almost set and forget. As soon as you provide the necessary documentation, these companies will quickly handle all of the legwork involved and have you up and running in no time. It is very rare to find any sort of unwanted influence in a privately incorporated small business and generally speaking, you are free to run With the Open Skies Agreement between

wired for high speed) you should be

your business unhindered and in perfect

ASEAN countries allowing far more

able to get quite useable speeds. Unifi,

harmony. With the proper incorporation,

freedom for carriers to operate among

the high-speed service provided by

you will be able to apply for work visas

ASEAN countries, airports with greater

the national telecom operator, claims

for all of the management staff and their

capacity like Kota Kinabalu International

speeds of up to 50Mbps, which would

families.

Airport stands to gain far more traffic

prove sufficient for all but the most

and greater access to the international

demanding requirements. In addition,

market.

there is a program underway offering

free Wifi in the City, targeting tourists and High-Speed Internet

pedestrians.

The speed required of your

Taxes Taxation is a federal issue in Malaysia, so regardless of where you are incorporated in the country, the rate will be

internet is highly dependent

Homes around KK, being in areas

the same (except for offshore locations

on your business. While

serviced by high-speed net also have

like Labuan and Langkawi). Tax rates

our business requires

superior speeds to just a few years ago.

in Malaysia are quite reasonable, far

reasonably fast internet, we arenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t

And generally, the 4G networks on most

lower than many regional competitors,

demanding Singapore Standards. A

providers mean that being away from the

and the system is professional and

consistent average of 15 Mbps is what

office doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t mean you are out of reach

straightforward.

we were looking for as the minimum,

and out of touch

functional necessity. Depending on your location in the City, this is certainly achievable. It is hard to find objective, 3rd party verification of speeds in Sabah, but informal inquiries indicate that as long as you are in a broadband area (and most new buildings are already

Logistics The simplest usage of Logistics, such as Document delivery, mail and small cargo, is very easy. Most

of the major logistics companies have www.PropertyHunter.com.my

CONTRIBUTOR

Quality of Life

hile there may be some

to the simpler side. However, that is not

compromises to using

to say there aren’t very good properties,

Sabah as a Headquarters

and depending on your long term view,

buying, and depending on long-term plans, would be the most logical route for those not expecting to spend a long time in the region.

Safety Outside of the occasional

for Business, we now get into the crux

buying and renovating a property to suit

of “why” it might be considered. Today,

your style and taste is perfectly viable.

many businesses are realizing that

That is the route that most people I have

quality of life is as important as the

met in KK take, including myself. Just look

business environment. After all, come 5

for a good property in an area that you

case we see on the news becomes the

p.m. there are a lot more hours in the

find desirable and work with select local

talk of the town, which is only a reflection

day for owners and employees to use

contractors to bring it up to a standard

of how uncommon it is. In so many other

their personal time. The location of a

that you feel suits your needs.

countries, they are so inured to stories

petty theft, crime in Sabah remains quite low. It is indeed saying a lot that each new

of crime and violence that it isn’t news

company is, in fact, a considerable draw for some prospective employees when

Now, there will be many (perhaps most)

any longer. The most notorious crimes

looking for new jobs. Let us examine

without the inclination to buy. Never

have been the kidnappings on the East

some of the facets that I looked at when

mind, renovate. Fear not! Every year,

Coast of Sabah. While horrific, statistically

considering Sabah as a desirable place

more and more properties are coming

they are so rare as to hardly register,

to live professionally and personally:

on stream, and many by developers

and again, the fact that it creates such a

that are fully fitted out. This means

response means we haven’t gotten used

Housing

that you’ll have all of the amenities

to it yet. In town, as in any city, it’s worth

As with office space, getting

and facilities, in a new and modern

watching your belongings, and that’s

world-class housing in Sabah

building with everything professionally

about as bad as you’re likely to run into.

is a challenge. There is very

decorated. There are also a lot of private

Compared to the major metropolis areas

little in Sabah that is on par

properties that would meet or exceed

in Malaysia such as Kuala Lumpur, Sabah

with the best that major international

the expectations of all but the most

is considerably more secure.

cities have to offer, but then, that is to

discerning tenant. Renting, in fact, is

be expected! Sabah has always appealed

generally a less expensive option than

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Schools

to be discounted or ignored, and my

are doing a much better job of getting

The selection of International

favorite, the local cuisine! There is not

international foods, and there are

Schools in Sabah is small, but

quite the selection of a major metropolis,

several specialty stores that have just

reports generally indicate that

but I submit that even in the biggest

about anything I needed over the years

parents are happy with the

cities we always tend to find a place we

to make my world famous dishes. That

education their kids are receiving. This is

like and return frequently. I have found

said, you may still, occasionally, have to

a major point of concern for families with

this to be the case for myself in Sabah.

get creative if an ingredient is sold out

young children and ensuring that their

At the loss of trying some new places, I

or not in stock, but that is part of the fun

kids can either transfer into a school

return to the ones I have found I prefer

after all.

system and/or transfer out at the end of

and remain a consistent customer for

an assignment is vitally important. This is

those establishments.

the major advantage of the international

Cost of Living Living in Sabah over the

school system. However, many of my

As for nightlife, there are several spots

expat friends in Sabah have actually

that have a concentration of activities

preferred to put their children in the

for late nights. This is another area that

local schools, and gravitate towards

is always expanding and changing. I

It is the soundtrack that plays in every

the Chinese Schools. At the top end of

think the nature of the late night scene

coffee shop in KK. That said, I think it

these schools, the education system is

is always such that new places take the

is a universal sentiment. The reality is,

turning out excellent students that are

place of old ones. In terms of sheer

Sabah is still comparatively cheap. As an

being accepted to major international

volume, the nightlife has also increased

international company, earning in foreign

universities, in addition to the teaching

dramatically, so the threat of boredom

currency, Sabah looks especially cheap.

of Chinese, English and Bahasa Malaysia

with the “usual places” can be staved off

I am writing this particular article from

(Malay).

for many years. Between the Waterfront,

Dubai, and I cringe at the prices here.

years, I gripe and grumble as much as anyone about how prices have gone up.

Times Square, Imago and others, expats

Now, that is because I am used to Sabah

Dining and Entertainment

will most certainly find something to

pricing. As a completely unscientific

Progress! This is an area that

entertain them.

measurement, my average basket of

has seen improvement by

goods in Dubai (a shopping cart full of

locations in town. Nowadays, high-

quality restaurants are all over. There is

place alone: Food! I find that food is the

Rental is very reasonable in Sabah. As

something for every budget and style.

great unifier, and cooking for ourselves

in many Asian markets, rental yield is

Italian, French, Spanish, American, Vegan

our favorite foods or stocking up the

actually negative, so it can be cheaper to

and Vegetarian, “Fusion”…the list goes

fridge with familiar goods is important to

rent than to buy a home. Finding a unit

on. Add to this excellent Japanese and

us. Again, Sabah is getting much better

is fairly straightforward and there is a

Koran restaurants, and of course, not

in this regards. The local supermarkets

large variety of properties for every size,

leaps and bounds in just a few short years. Not only in

variety, but in quality as well. It wasn’t long ago that good western food was confined to hotels and a few choice

Imported goods

my normal purchases) is nearly double of

I’m not much of a fashion buff,

what I pay in Sabah, and for many goods,

so the lack of high-end brands

especially fresh fruits and vegetables,

in Sabah doesn’t make a lick

some items can be two or three times

of difference to me. Where I

higher.

care about imported goods is in once

location and budget to be had.

Traffic & Public Transport With progress comes the inevitable development problems. Traffic flow in Kota Kinabalu has certainly

deteriorated in the past few years. This might be seen as progress with more cars on the road an indication of more wealth, but it does create quality of life issues for commuters. There are major works underway to improve infrastructure, but it remains to be Night market - Photo by Sabah Tourism Board

seen if they are sufficient to handle the volume of vehicles out there. I have www.PropertyHunter.com.my

CONTRIBUTOR

and entertainment options, this is the area that really matters when we need it. The biggest news in recent years is the opening of Gleneagles Hospital. This World Renowned institute is considered one of the best in the region. In fact, my family has been going to Singapore specifically for Gleneagles for health care for many years now. Having a branch in KK is a major milestone for medical progress. Let us not forget KPJ, also another highly regarded health provider with branches all over Malaysia. Added to the local providers and you have almost all of the major health care provisions you should need to be taken

Traditional costume - Photo by Sabah Tourism Board

been fortunate to have the flexibility to adjust my schedule outside of rush hour. Doubly fortunate that Sabah has quite clearly defined rush hours, and after 9:30 am the roads are generally quite clear.

care of. Climate Sabah is famous for its beautiful tropical clime. Of course, we have a “rainy” season, but you’ll soon forget

Afternoons can be more of a gamble,

when stunned by the amazing sunsets

and it is hard to predict when the crowds

and sunny days. The temperature is fairly

thin out. Having said that, compared to

consistent throughout the year, meaning

Kuala Lumpur or Jakarta or Manila, you’ll

it is almost always a good time to hit the

feel the jam passes in the blink of an eye.

mountains or the beaches or the rivers or take a long drive to a city far away.

Now, for all the complaints about traffic,

It is amazing how the effect of living

the truth is, nothing is really that far

with sunny days has on one’s feeling of

away. You’re not required to travel vast

wellness and wellbeing. How can you

distances from your home to your office,

have a bad day with the tropical breeze

so that in itself inevitably mitigates some

and sunshine smiling down on you? It

of the “traffic phobia” many experience.

becomes infectious, making everyone feel better.

Public transportation still has a long way to go. Not just in its reach, but the quality of the transportation is quite poor. At the moment, there is no light rail, no MRT, nothing more than bus services. While I do know some expats that find the bus

Town Size Kota Kinabalu has maintained a relatively small footprint and things are easily reachable. In fact, both the

center of town and the airport are just

direct line that takes them straight to

4km from my house. Where are you

town with no need for transfers. For

ever going to get that kind of convenient

most of us, it is not a first or favorable

access? Having everything so close feels

option until the system gets a complete

like the best of small town living in a City

overhaul. For those in it for the long haul,

environment. It is also great for those

Kota Kinabalu expects to have a Bus

who prefer to bike or jog to work.

which we hope will be the long-awaited solution to the public transport ails.

Health Care Perhaps the most important area that KK has improved since I first arrived is in Health

Care. As much as I might enjoy dining

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Sabah has one of the oldest and most diverse cultures in Malaysia. The ancient

tribes all bring elements of their culture together during the Kaamatan festival, culminating at the end of May. In addition, being a cultural crossroads with Malaysia means they have a broad variety from West Malaysia as well. The cultural scene, while diverse, does not hold a very prominent stage in the social scene of Sabah. Whereas in many other places, there are constantly events for the Arts and Music, Sabah has very few major events a year. Like many things, it is getting better, so we should

convenient, they happen to live near a

Rapid Transit system in place by 2020,

Art and Culture

assume that this will increase with more awareness and appreciation for such events. What has blossomed over the years are organized sporting activities. My favorite is the Ultra Trail runs such as those organized by Borneo Ultra Trails. I started with some of their events in 2010 when there was but a handful of events a year, and nowadays, it seems there is a new run at least every month. Let’s not forget the Kota Kinabalu Marathon as well for the traditional runners. Dragon Boat Races, Regattas and the Borneo 4x4 Safari are just a few of the events that take advantage of the boundless natural beauty that Sabah provides.

stands out as the sheltered land in a stormy sea. This does give some comfort knowing that Sabah is the Goldilocks of locations, everything is just right! That is why Sabah is right for me. There is no perfect place, but when you consider the trade off between being able to get your job done while enjoying a great quality of life, Sabah is a destination that should be looked at with new eyes. A place that just makes sense for those looking to get away from

Mount Kinabalu in the distance - Photo by Sabah Tourism Board

the crazy hustle and bustle and have an

Friendly People

as much, but it is off putting to the softer

No one leaves

of visitors.

environment that contributes to your mental and physical well being from the moment you wake up in the morning to

Sabah without being enamored of the

General cleanliness in buildings and in

genuine friendliness

the town is a work in progress. Public

the spectacular sunsets that rain down every evening, Sabah is unique, special and endearing.

of the local people. Sincere smiles

areas of most offices and apartments,

abound, and everyone is eager to help

with above noted exceptions, are not

a stranger in any way they can. From

up to international standards. If it is a

Joseph Bianculli is currently the

simple directions to recommendations

problem, sticking to the shiny new places

Director of Business Development

for their favorite places to eat and visit,

is your best bet, but you’ll miss out on

for Liquide Project Management,

Sabahans are happy to be of assistance

the local experience and some of the

specializing in Sustainable Project

and share their goodwill to visitors. It

best cuisine that the city has to offer.

Management. His first visit to Sabah

helps that most of the population speaks elementary English, while a very goodly portion speaks fluently and indeed use English as their first language. In all my years in Sabah I’ve never had a language issue (leading inevitably to much laziness

was in 2004, and the beginning of a Acceptance

love affair with the state began. While

In additional to

pursuing a variety of projects around

boundless enthusiasm

the world, Sabah eventually became

for welcoming

his home base, and when not traveling

expats, Sabahans

for work, remains his base camp and

to learn the local lingo!) and found that

are welcoming of diversity. It is indeed

starting point for adventures around

many people and business’ conduct

an uncommon day for anyone to feel

the state. Currently in Dubai, he is

business in English, making it very easy

unwelcome in Sabah. It is the nature

looking forward to getting back to the

to work and live in the State.

of the people to go with the flow and

green grass of home.

appreciate the uniqueness that other Cleanliness

people and cultures bring to the

If there is a common

table. People from all over the world

complaint, it is that

have found Sabah to be their idyllic

Sabah has a ways to

home away from home, feeling just as

go with the cleanliness

comfortable here as back home.

factor. As everywhere, awareness is increasing about littering, but there is a long way to go and generations of bad habits to break. Perhaps the most noticeable to 1st time visitors are a persistent problem with drains. The

Land Below the Wind! Sabah’s moniker “The Land Below the Wind” has many legends

peculiar smell in certain areas, especially

attached to it, but one of the most

the older commercial areas, has been

commonly accepted ones is that it is

noted quite often when I’ve brought

away from all of the natural disasters

guests around. This is primarily confined

that affect the rest of the region. After

to the downtown area, and the newer

all of the Tsunamis and Typhoons and

commercial zones don’t seem to suffer

Earthquakes and horror stories, Sabah www.PropertyHunter.com.my

NEWS

EPF to Invest More in Infrastructure Sector

The Employees Provident

to venture into areas such

assets to free up our financial

Fund is ready to park more

as ports, airports and power “Our target is to meet at least

resources for the expansion of

funds in the infrastructure

plants that were matured cash

our infrastructure division and

sector by setting aside three

two per cent of real return rate

generator projects.

and two per cent of inflation,”

other core businesses such

percent of its allocation for the segment, as reported in

he told a media conference

Duke phase 1 is already in

Borneo Post.

at the signing of a conditional

operation, while phase 2 is

share sale agreement (SSA)

expected to be completed and

The group, which is engaged

The EPF asset size currently

between the EPF and Ekovest

to commence toll collection by

in the construction,

stands at RM690 billion, of

Bhd’s unit, Nuzen Corporation

the first half of 2017.

property development and

which 51 percent is fixed

Sdn Bhd on Wednesday, Nov 8.

as construction and property development,” he said.

infrastructure concession Upon completion of the SSA,

The EPF signed the SSA with

businesses, has been granted

the EPF will pay RM921 million

Nuzen for the acquisition

a 53.5-year concession to

cash to Ekovest, while a further

40 per cent of the issued

build, operate and transfer

RM209 million cash upon the

Infrastructure, private equity

and paid-up share capital of

the 32-km Setiawangsa-Pantai

issuance of the certificate of

and real estate investment are

Konsortium Lebuhraya Utara

Expressway, formerly known

practical completion of Duke

categorised under alternative

(KL) (Kesturi) for RM1.13

as Duke Phase 3, which is

Phase 2, of which RM149 will

investment by the EPF.

billion, which is expected to be

expected to be completed in

be deposited in an interest

completed in the first quarter

2020.

designated account by

of 2017.

Ekovest.

The SSA was signed by

Meanwhile, Lim said upon the

intends to allocate RM400

completion of Duke phase 1

million for repayment of

and 2, the expressway would

borrowings, up to RM245

contribute about 30 percent

million for its shareholders,

to the group’s revenue.

and RM485 for general

income, equities (36 percent) and alternative investment (10 percent).

EPF deputy chief executive officer (Investment) Datuk Mohamad Nasir Ab Latif said the infrastructure segment matched its investment profile and met its risk-return profile. “One of the areas that we are trying to grow is the infrastructure sector because it has potential real return rate.

Mohamad Nasir on behalf of the EPF, while Nuzen was represented by Ekovest Managing Director Datuk Seri Lim Keng Cheng. Mohamad Nasir said the EPF was not only looking at toll and road but was also ready

proposed disposal, Ekovest

“The proposed disposal is in line with the company’s

planned for our future

SP Setia Bhd targets to

launches,” said Ng at the

launch RM3 billion worth of

unveiling of the Setia Sky Ville

properties on Penang island,

project in Jelutong.

corporate, working capital and others.

strategy to monetize its matured infrastructure

SP Setia to Launch RM3 Billion Projects in 10 Years Over the next 10 year,

As for the proceeds from the

as reported in Property Guru. Notably, the RM470 mil Setia According to group general

Sky Ville project is set for

manager Ng Han Seong,

launch on 5 November.

the property developer had 56.6ha of undeveloped

Commenting on the

landbank on the eastern side

weakened property market,

of the island, Jelutong, Tanjung

Ng explained that the

Bungah, Balik Pulau and Teluk

property cycle usually takes

Kumbar.

two to three years.

“We expect to launch at least

“The trend is the same

one project per year. There

globally,” he said. Ng also

will be a mixture of high-

revealed that SP Setia

“The pricing from RM650,000

rise and landed properties

launched the Setia Sky Vista

was very attractive. The built-

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Over the next 10 year, SP Setia Bhd targets to launch RM3 billion worth of properties on Penang island

project last year in Relau,

up area ranging between

which posted a take-up rate of

1,100 sq ft and 1,400 sq

55 percent.

ft is sizeable. Because of the success, we are now launching Setia Sky Ville in Jelutong,” he added.

Kota Marudu Soon to Have Tourism Council

A Tourism Council will be set

There are lots of attractions

which is now equipped with

On another development, he

up in Kota Marudu soon to

that have and yet to be

basic infrastructure and easy

said the federal government

help boost efforts in luring

explored which can be

accessibility, he was confident

allocated loans amounting

more visitors to the district,

developed as tourism spots,”

that tourism sector could

to RM250 millions to replace

as reported in New Sabah

he said, adding the council

grow here.

existing sewage systems in

Times.

will also be facilitating and

Member of Parliament for Kota Marudu, Datuk Seri Dr Maximus Ongkili in announcing this yesterday said the Tourism Council will be tasked to develop tourism products and programmes as well as promote them to outsiders. Speaking to a crowd of over a thousand at the Kota Marudu Festival here, he said the district has a lot to offer, from beaches to culture and outdoor activities.

Sabah in the third rolling plan

coordinating development

“It is possible to get to Mount

of the 11th Malaysia Plan and

projects in the district.

Kinabalu from Kota Marudu,

of the amount, RM120 million

through the newly completed

was channelled to Kota

Marak-Parak road, which also

Marudu.

He said, several wellknown universities in Malaysia, such as Universiti Malaysia Sabah, Universiti Sains Malaysia and Universiti Putra Malaysia conducted research on ecotourism here five years ago, and found that Kota Marudu could be promoted for marine ecotourism.

leads to Sandakan,” he said. Ongkili added that another Ongkili also stressed that

RM40 million had been

Kota Marudu is the richest

approved to upgrade the

district in terms of cultural

district’s water treatment

diversity and heritage due

plant as part of efforts to

to a large number of ethnic

provide quality water for the

groups.

people.

“The Kadazandusuns have

Through the project, the

over 40 sub-ethnic groups

existing plant which produces

in Kota Marudu alone, such

5 MLD (million litres per

as the Rungus, Tobilung,

day) would be upgraded to

Kimaragang, Sonsogon,

produce 8MLD.

“Kota Marudu has the

He noted that with rapid

Tombonuo, Lingkabau and

potential to be developed.

development in the district

much more,” he said.

Seeing Is Believing at Epic Residence

To commemorate the

through our Epic Residence

completion of Epic

project, we hope to enhance

Residence’s Facilities Floor,

the lifestyle of the residents,

Bukit Hitam Development

assuring them security,

Sdn Bhd organized ‘ A Night

convenience, cleanliness and

to Remember’, a party

excellent customer service.

by the pool for its guests

Epic Residence is in line with

to dazzle and dine under

Bukit Puchong Development’s

the stars in celebration

masterplan incorporating a

of yet another milestone achievement. Guests were entertained with a mermaid show in Epic Residence’s infinity pool and feted to a barbeque buffet. Students from the residence’s neighbouring Taylor’s International School Puchong and Sekolah Jenis Kebangsaan Cina Sin Ming also made it a night to remember with musical performances.

Guests were treated to a barbeque buffet by the pool

The highlight of the event was the sneak preview of Epic Residence’s facilities for residents which has been completed, comprising the infinity pool, gym, reading room, games room, nursery and children’s playground.

Guests who booked a unit of Epic Residence on the event day itself were given an extra RM10,000 worth of rebates and incentives. Mr. Wong Chiew Meng, General Manager of Bukit Hitam Development said, “This is indeed a proud moment for us at Bukit Hitam Development. As they say, seeing is believing, and

vibrant commercial enclave and business hub in the near future.” Epic Residence is a guarded luxury apartment project which comprises a wellbalanced mix of private residences, commercial and industrial properties. Construction of Epic Residence commenced in 2014 and is scheduled for completion in April 2017.

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CONTRIBUTOR

Where to Invest in Australia:

Regional or Metropolitan Areas?

Ask just about any property investor to tell you the three most important things to look out for in a property, and you’re likely to hear: “location, location, location.” That is the most important decision you’re going to make when buying an investment property. By Yaron Gal

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CONTRIBUTOR

ou could be looking for an area

Whatever it might be, there’s one question

with a high growth potential or

you’ll always ask yourself: Where is it best

simply a good location based

to invest?

on your personal preferences.

regional or metropolitan areas? Your make up as an investor, your capital and cash flow, and your stomach for risk

This could be in an inner city suburb,

In our case, we have pushed it a little bit

or further afield in a regional township.

further: Where is it best to invest, in the

Metropolitan

will have a say in your pick.

Are you concerned about the taxes that

Worthy of note is that metropolitan areas

Population growth fuels capital

you will be paying?

tend to experience lower rental yields

appreciation. It creates a strong demand

than regional areas. That is due to the high

for housing, which in turn leads to a hike

management and maintenance costs.

in prices.

Metropolitan areas include major capital

The capital growth in cities makes up for

Supposing you buy a $500,000 property

cities such as Sydney, Melbourne,

the difference.

in a capital city, you’re going to part

If yes, then you’re probably better off investing in a metropolitan area.

Brisbane and Perth.

with about $80 per week of your own Regional areas are relatively stable in

money—$4,160 per annum. But, you

Investment properties in city suburbs are

population growth; cities, on the other

stand to “make” $35,000 on average per

usually negatively geared. This means

hand, see sharp bouts in population

annum in capital growth.

that most of the time the income from

growth. The population of Sydney is

rent is not enough to cover the interest

expected to grow by more than 2.1 million

Metropolitan areas also hold up better

payable on the property loan and other

by 2036. Meanwhile, its median house

when the economy takes a dive as

expenses. If you’re in higher income tax

price stepped over the $1,000,000 mark.

opposed to regional towns.

brackets, you can swing the loss into a tax advantage.

www.PropertyHunter.com.my

Regional

A regional property

investment is alright with those that are after stronger rental income and lower house prices.

Property prices in Australia’s capitals

and economy, nearness to the city and

have been soaring for a while, putting

whether or not the area is regarded as

them among the world’s highest. But

undervalued.

if you go a few kilometres beyond the city limits, you can see prices drop

Your investment could be left

dramatically. The opportunity is there for

untenanted for long periods of time.

any investor who wishes to get into the market at an affordable entry point.

All in all, as with any type of investment,

It is also there for those looking to grow

It is also important to seek professional

their property portfolios.

advice based on your own state of affairs

Regional areas include smaller cities, mining towns and farming areas. The yields are often higher than those in

you need to make some considerations.

before you can commit your hard earned

metropolitan areas. If you’re a cash flow

But tread with caution while choosing to

sort of investor—you know, the kind that

invest in a regional town.

money. I advise you to consider your personal

winces when the cash flow is red—then the regional areas could be your cup of

Demand for rentals in an area is usually

financial objectives when choosing

tea. With the rental yield a bit higher, you

dictated by employment prospects in

whether to invest in a metropolitan

may even be positively geared.

that area. Capital growth is generally not

or regional area. This will provide you

as impressive as it is in the metropolises

with useful insight into what to think

There are other reasons as to why you

largely because growth in regional

about when selecting where to invest in

could turn to the regional areas. One of

areas depends on several factors.

Australia.

them is affordability.

Some of which include local industry

Yaron Gal began purchasing investment properties while working full-time and bought 4 investment properties within less than a year. He now works as a property strategist and helps individuals identify high growth properties for wealth creation. To get your FREE copy of the ‘Top Growth Hot Spots in Australia -2016”, simply email him at yaron@investinproperties.com.au

www.PropertyHunter.com.my

NEWS

China’s One Belt and One Road Initiative for Greater Cooperation For the past seven

“It is essential for businesses

consecutive years, China has

in Malaysia to educate

remained Malaysia’s biggest

themselves about China’s

trading partner. In 2015,

One Belt and One Road

the Malaysia External Trade

(OBOR) initiative and begin

Development Corporation

formulating strategies to

(MATRADE) reported that

leverage on its framework.

China contributed 1.2% of

Malaysia and China share

Malaysia’s trade growth

much in common such

which amounted to RM1.466

as our values, culture and

trillion. Local and global

enthusiasm to further tap

industry leaders revisited

into business and tourism

Malaysia and China’s long-

opportunities. LBS is proud

term trade and cultural

to have started the ball rolling

ties and explored the way

through our involvement in

forward at the 8th World

promoting tourism through

Chinese Economic Summit

motorsports. We look

(WCES) held recently in

forward to seeing the next

Malacca.

phase; the completion of the

Themed ChinaASEAN: Realising Opportunities, Strengthening Partnerships, the summit covered a range of topics including women and youth entrepreneurs, education and training as well China’s One Belt and One Road (OBOR) initiative. Discussions on China’s OBOR initiative drew much interest with panellists covering new business and investment opportunities as well as risks and ways to overcome them. One of the panellists included Malaysia-Guangdong Chamber of Investment Promotion (MGCIP) President, and Managing Director of LBS Bina Group Berhad, Tan Sri Lim Hock San.

Melaka Cultural and Trade Centre in Zhuhai which will take the Malaysia-China bilateral ties to the next level,” said Tan Sri Lim. Tan Sri Lim, cited a recent survey by HSBC Commercial Banking where 7 out of 10 Malaysian businesses did not know the opportunities that China’s OBOR initiative could bring. The study found only four per cent of businesses were fully aware and had started developing strategies in line with the OBOR framework. “As a Malaysian, I believe we all play a role in helping the nation realise its full economic potential. The first step is for businesses to educate themselves about the OBOR framework and how they can use it to their advantage,” explained Tan Sri Lim. Sharing LBS Bina’s ventures as a case study, Tan Sri Lim explained the multiplier effect of the long term relationship the company

www.PropertyHunter.com.my

Tan Sri Lim Hock San, Managing Director of LBS Bina Group Berhad and President of Malaysia Guangdong Chamber of Investment Promotion (MGCIP) at WCES 2016, during the panel discussion on the topic Belt and Road Initiative: Harnessing Opportunities and the Global Diaspora

has nurtured with its

Sri Lim.

counterparts in Zhuhai. “One of our most prominent

“The ties between China

involvements in China is

and Malaysia are truly a

the Zhuhai International

marvel. The cultural, social

Racing Circuit, better known

and economic benefits are a

as ZIC. It organised the first

testament to how important

international street race

the relations between

in China in 1993 which

our two countries are. It

help propel China onto the

is evident that the unique

international motorsports

bond between Malaysia

map. It has grown to include

and China is like no other.

the Pan Delta Super Racing

Our similarities in culture

Festival which has attracted

and viewpoints have indeed

over 5,000 race drivers

played a role in developing

and close to one million

this friendship. It is safe to

audiences over the past 11

say, that each of us plays

years.

a crucial role in nurturing this long-term friendship

Zhuhai is now known as the

between Malaysia and China,”

‘Automobile City of China’ and

concluded Tan Sri Lim.

‘China City of Motor Sports Racing’. More recently, LBS

Organised by the Asian

signed an MOU with our

Strategy & Leadership

China partner, Zhuhai Jiuzhou

Institute (ASLI), the 8th WCES

Group Holdings Limited,

summit gathered over 600

in order to upgrade ZIC

delegates from 25 countries

into China’s first integrated

with a majority of delegates

urban circuit development.

coming from Malaysia, China,

The ZIC Upgrading and

Taiwan and Indonesia. The

Transformation Plan is on

summit concluded with a gala

its way to taking Zhuhai to

dinner in celebration of the

greater heights not only as

growing bilateral ties among

a motorsports hub but also

the diverse nations in the

a tourist magnet with the

ASEAN region and beyond.

upcoming Melaka Cultural and Trade Centre,” said Tan

China Set to Further Expand Investments in Malaysia

Economic and trade relations

Minister said the growing

between Malaysia and China

economic and trade relations

has grown from strength

between Malaysia and China

to strength, and the latter’s

has been encouraged by the

investments in the country

healthy and close political and

are set to expand further,

business exchanges at the

said Prime Minister Datuk

highest levels.

Seri Najib Tun Razak, as “We share China’s view that the

reported in Borneo Post.

best way to face the ongoing He said last year, China invested US$2 billion (RM8.4 billion) in Malaysia and expects the figure to increase based on the uptrend in investments over the past five years. “China was Malaysia’s largest trading partner in 2015, a position maintained since

Economic and trade relations between Malaysia and China has grown from strength to strength

global economic headwinds is

with 30 Chinese Captains of

sign the Framework Financing

Industry here on Tuesday.

Agreement and Engineering,

create mutually beneficial and

Procurement, Construction

trade and investments,” he

Contract for the US$13.10

the International Trade and

billion (RM55 billion) East Coast

Industry Ministry (Miti) and

Railway Line (ECRL) project on

the Malaysian Investment

He said the Malaysian

Tuesday.

economy remains stable and

Development Authority (Mida)

2009.

The ECRL is set to be China’s

Minister, Datuk Seri Mustapa

single largest investment in

“Total bilateral trade in 2015

Mohamed.

Malaysia.

Putrajaya and Beijing will also

Najib, who is also Finance

at the Round Table Meeting

sustainable growth through

The event was organised by

and also present was the

was US$100 billion,” he said

to increase cooperation, and

Tg Aru Eco Development Master Plan Submitted to City Hall

added.

on a positive trajectory, with the Gross Domestic Product growth projected to be 4 to 4.5 per cent this year, and up to five per cent in 2017.

The master plan for

“Some parts of the project will

the Tanjung Aru Eco

look like resorts while others

Development (TAED) has

will look like the rainforests,”

already been submitted to

he said.

the Kota Kinabalu City Hall and the public consultation

With regard to the public

will probably take place

area/park, Peter stated that

in mid-November till mid-

it would be twice the size of

December this year, as

the present Prince Phillip

reported in Borneo Post.

Park and would be equipped An artist’s impression of a promenade in the Tg Aru Eco Development project

with electric buses, a public

Peter Adam, the project

this year. Similarly, members

Peter said that they would

performance area, canopy

director told press members

of the public could comment

also address the worries of

walkways, eco-education

at the TAED office that they

on the SEIA through the

the people of Sabah with

centre and a wet playground,

hoped to receive constructive

department, he said.

regard to the indigenous

among others.

feedback from the public concerning the project.

trees that were now within The TAED development,

the development areas.

which consists of a public

Investors wanting to construct buildings on the

At the same time, the

park, rainforest, mangrove

“Some trees will remain while

development site will have

Special Environment Impact

forests, hotels and housing

others will be transplanted.

to abide by strict standards

Assessment (SEIA) had

areas, retail lots as well as

We will take six months to

that comply with the Green

also been submitted to the

a marina and golf course, is

uproot and replant them,” he

Building Index (GBI) and

Department of Environment

expected to benefit the wider

said.

others.

for its approval, said Peter.

community which includes job opportunities, improved

He also said that only trees

Among others, investors

tourism facilities as well as

indigenous to Sabah would be

would be required to install

better recreation facilities.

used in the development.

solar panels and carry out

The SEIA was submitted to the department in September

www.PropertyHunter.com.my

NEWS

waste and water recycling, he

Tanjung Aru beach and the

to start during the second

construction work. He added

said.

findings had found the area/

quarter of next year. The

that the people of Sabah

water to be highly polluted.

first phase will consist of the

could expect an entirely

Mangrove forests will also be

Prince Phillip Park and is

different landscape once the

planted to help improve the

“However, many people,

expected to be completed

project was completed.

water quality in the area.

including children, have

within 24 months.

continued to be in the sea,” He added that they had

he said.

conducted tests on the present water quality at the

The entire project is expected to be completed within six

Work on the park is expected

years after the start of the

New Zealand Has the World’s Fastest Growing House Prices The worlds fastest growing

“Nationwide median housing

residential prices are in

prices surged as much as

New Zealand, a report from

10.43 percent, a 5.19 percent

Chinese real estate portal

year-on-year increase from

Juwai.com has revealed.

the year before,” the report

reads. The Juwai Global House Price Index, released this month,

Romania took the second

marks New Zealand out as the

spot, with a 10.10 percent

world leader for Q2 2016.

annual house price increase, Auckland is New Zealands largest and most populus city

with Germany coming in third “New Zealand has overtaken

at 9.90 percent.

Europe to take the lead as

At the other end of the scale,

markets were upbeat and

Russia is the worst performer,

either charted housing price

the strongest perfomer this

Overall, Europe is where

with a decline of 12.46

gains or performed better

quarter, with a 10.43 percent

house prices are rising fastest,

percent y-o-y in Q2 2016.

than the previous quarter,

increase. In contrast, the

with Turkey, Malta and Iceland

Australian market underwent

also all within the top ten.

In Asia, there is sharp polarisation. “Nine Asian

a gradual slowdown.

MM2H A LET DOWN IN SABAH

“It is sad to say that MM2H is

more initiative

Francis Goh commented on

a failed project in Sabah. The

to promote

the shocking number of only

government made little to no

the MM2H

300 foreigners who have

initiative to attract foreigners

scheme. “If

applied for the MM2H scheme

to apply for the MM2H

MM2H is

between 2011 – 2015 when

scheme”.

successful

the association acquired the

declining streak.”

in Sabah, it

data from the immigration

With the State’s current low

can improve

department.

economy, the government

and boost

should change their strategy Malaysia My Second Home

the State’s

and encourage more

economy”.

(MM2H) Programme is

foreigners to invest in Sabah,

promoted by the Government

especially Kota Kinabalu.

Here’s the list

of Malaysia to allow foreigners

Even though there are a

of foreigners

who fulfil certain criteria, to

lot more than can be done

who have

stay in Malaysia for as long as

in Kota Kinabalu, the city is

applied for the MM2H scheme

possible on a multiple-entry

nonetheless equipped with

from 2011 – 2015.

social visit pass.

facilities and amenities for foreigners to invest and live in.

The Social Visit Pass is initially

Australia (19), Britain (25), Brunei (10), Canada (5), China

for a period of ten (10) years

Goh concluded saying that

(101), Denmark (2), Finland

and is renewable.

the government should take

(2), Germany (1), Hong Kong

www.PropertyHunter.com.my

markets continued their

SHAREDA’s President, Datuk

while the remaining Asian

Datuk Francis Goh

(8), Indonesia (16), Iraq (1), Ireland (1), Italy (2), Japan (37), Korea (35), Netherlands (1), New Zealand (1), Philippines (2), Singapore (6), South Africa (1), Spain (1), Switzerland (4), Taiwan (13), USA (6)

Property and Credit Booms Stabilise China Growth Chinese growth stabilised

important component as

in the third quarter, data

Beijing looks to recalibrate the

showed Wednesday, as

country’s growth driver from

ample credit and hot

investment and exports to

property markets propped

consumer demand.

up the world’s second-largest economy, as reported in The

But Beijing’s attempts

Edge Property.

to retool the economy have proved painful, with

But while the forecast-beating

authorities resorting to

reading was in line with state

stimulus measures as they try

targets, it came as experts

to avoid a hard landing.

warned that authorities have relied too much on easy

Sheng acknowledged that

credit, which has in turn

the economy was in “a critical

increased financial risks.

period of transformation and

The economy grew 6.7% in JulySeptember, officials said, just above the 6.6% predicted in an AFP poll. “The general performance was better than expected,” National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) spokesman Sheng Laiyun told reporters. “The national economy grew steadily.” The government has targeted 6.5% to 7.0% growth for the year, following 6.9% last year — the slowest rate in a quarter of a century. “It was so in-line with expectations that I could have written this yesterday, to be honest,” Michael Every with Rabobank in Hong Kong told AFP. “It’s amazing what a housing bubble and crazy debt increases can achieve.” Datas also showed a pickup in retail spending, which has become an increasingly

upgrading, with old drivers of growth to be replaced by new ones”. With “a number of unstable and uncertain domestic and external factors”, he added, “the foundation of continued economic growth is not solid enough.” Some analysts have questioned the accuracy of Chinese data, arguing they are subject to political manipulation.

Residential buildings in Zhengzhou, China

Huang of Societe Generale

But retail sales, a key measure

told AFP, adding that new

of consumer spending,

house-buying regulations and

rose 10.7% on-year last

necessary credit tightening

month, representing a slight

meant “the downturn will

acceleration from August.

become even more obvious” in the fourth quarter and next

Fixed-asset investment,

year.

a gauge of infrastructure spending, rose 8.2% in the

Data released Tuesday (Oct

first nine months of the year.

18) showed new loans by Chinese banks in September

NBS spokesman Sheng said

surged nearly 30% over the

that rising prices for coal and

previous month, deepening

steel had given loss-making

concern about risky credit

firms a lifeline, noting that

expansion.

“those companies that need to be closed down have

Earlier this month the

resumed their production,

International Monetary

because they are making

Fund warned that China’s

profit again”.

dependence on debt was

“As always, the GDP figures

growing at a “dangerous

Looking ahead, Beijing will

will be met with some

pace” and risked a “disruptive

shift its focus from GDP to

scepticism,” said Julian

adjustment” in the financial

tackling excess capacity and

Evans-Pritchard of Capital

system.

massive corporate debt, ANZ

Economics, who thinks expansion is slower than

analysts said in a note. That came after the Bank for

official reports.

International Settlements

Investors took the figures

— dubbed the central bank

in their stride with the

Though the figures suggest

of central banks — warned

benchmark Shanghai

economic activity is broadly

China’s banking sector could

Composite Index fractionally

holding up, he said, the recent

be facing an imminent debt

higher by the noon break

recovery was “on borrowed

crisis, fuelling fresh fears of

Wednesday (Oct 19)

time” as Beijing tried to rein in

a blowout that could hit the

runaway lending and housing

global financial system.

prices.

A slowdown in the supply

Loans Surge

chain of electronic goods

The booming property market

dragged on production,

and loose lending supported the latest GDP figures, Claire

ANZ analysts said, noting a particular slide in making mobile phones.

www.PropertyHunter.com.my

INTERVIEW

DATUK FRANCIS GOH A man with many aptitudes and 27 years of working experience in various fields from building contractor to certified real estate negotiator to property developer, Datuk Francis Goh served as SHAREDA’s President for 2 terms; 2013 – 2015 and 2015 – 2017. Adopting the luxurious house by the beach concept, his current brainchild is a development project called Aman Pesona, a 120-unit high-end beachside villa project. By Property Hunter Photos by Suchen SK Location at Bamboo Restaurant Sabandar

www.PropertyHunter.com.my

K INTERVIEW

insabina Group Chief

“Before turning Sabandar into the next

“We are incorporating tourism with

Executive Officer (CEO)

tourist attraction, we need to first,

our local culture to show people the

cum SHAREDA’s current

receive and understand its culture, and

different tribes that we have here”, he

President, Datuk Francis

that’s what we are doing now”, Goh adds.

adds. Nestled in the Sabandar Village are

Goh recently invited us to

the homesteads of the gentle and peace-

his Aman Pesona development project

The local property developer has formed

loving Bajau tribe. Sabandar Leisure

in the beachfront of Sabandar, Tuaran

a strategic partnership with Dato Seri

Rides reflects the Bajau community’s

which aims to target affluent foreign

Winston Liaw’s Airworld Travel & Tours

identity.

investors looking for a second home

Sdn Bhd to promote inbound tourism

or trophy property in Sabah. This

in Sabah through Borneo Airworld

unique piece of sanctuary is flanked by

Sdn. Bhd to bring more high spending

white sandy beach, lush emerald green

Chinese tourists to Kota Kinabalu.

mangrove forest and river mouth.

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A Paradise for the Discerning Few

a home in Kota Kinabalu. I have travelled

MM2H is a Malaysian Government

almost half the world and realized how

initiative promoted by the Government

beautiful Sabah is when compared to

of Malaysia to allow foreigners who fulfil

Bali or Koh Samui”.

certain criteria to stay in Malaysia for as

Some 200 acres of land in hand will

long as possible on a multiple-entry social

turn Sabandar into a prominent spot in

We asked him about the resources we

the near future for lodging and leisure

have in Sabah. “It’s a very beautiful place,

purposes, housing cowboy themed

but, we don’t have enough products for

lodges and villas, lagoon villas, riverside

foreign investments at the moment”, Goh

villas – Aman Riveria, Aman Laguna

continued. “They would want something

and Aman Senja, and a variety of water

different; blue skies, sunset views, and

Goh added that the government should

sports. “We want to target the foreign

we want to encourage them to stay in

take more initiative to promote the

leisure property buyers who want to own

Sabah under the Malaysia My Second

MM2H scheme, having learnt of the low

visit pass. Imagine if we can get 10,000 foreigners to stay in Sabah under the MM2H programme, we can generate RM1 billion revenues for the State,” said Goh.

Home (MM2H)”.

www.PropertyHunter.com.my

INTERVIEW

number of expatriates who applied from

also one of the changes made by the

2011 – 2015.

committee. “The Ministry of Local

With the upcoming Aman Pesona development, Tuaran is poised to be the next sought after tourist destination after Nexus Karambunai. “Sabah is 25 years behind in terms of resort villa developments as compared to places like Bali, Koh Samui and other tourist spots. We need to up our game”. He continued that investors are keen on other States too, for example, Forest City in Johor but, of course, these two States are incomparable.

On Being President When asked about the changes brought to SHAREDA during his Presidential period, he simply said, “I think, as the President, I’ve managed to bring a few changes to SHAREDA”. Goh then says, “Bear in mind that Sabah is the only State which is exempted from the affordable housing quota”. He then continued to say that SHAREDA members act as a vehicle to support the Sabah government’s call to build more affordable housing projects and they are committed to building 10,000 units with the starting price of not more than RM250,000 for an 850sqft unit. Introducing leisure property development to the Government was

www.PropertyHunter.com.my

Government and Housing should give a waiver to tourism and commercial products for developers who wish to participate in leisure property developments”, says Goh. He claims that by right if one’s project falls under the residential sector, one’s restricted to the 30% Bumiputera quota. On top of all that, the committee members, along with the guidance of Goh, managed to hold a firm argument

to convince the local Government to

wanting to further develop the city”, he

middle income earners fail to get a loan

accept their proposal as a mean of

explains. SHAREDA has set their eyes on

because they can’t clear their credit

standard guidelines for the building

wanting to enhance the core industry by

card and/or Pesonal loans, resulting in a

industries. “One of the setbacks

improving what’s already out there.

bad credit rating shown on their CCRIS”,

imposed by DBKK and the Central Board were part and parcel of the efforts of SHAREDA and NGOs”. He added that it wasn’t as easy as it may seem to convince them to adopt most SHAREDA’s proposals. Behind every silver lining, is a dark cloud. When asked about the downside as President, Goh was quick to say that he had to guide the government to approval for development plans and to also expedite the gazettement of a draft local plan. “K.K as a city lacks a zoning plan. It’s simply just a draft”, he continued. “with it being where it is now, it may cause a problem or two when it comes to

Time For More Changes Goh also commented on helping avid home buyers, regardless if it’s their first, second or third homes. “Bank Negara should be more friendly to home buyers. We should help them; even second and third home buyers are finding it hard to commit. The government should also do

he added. A leader is someone who demonstrates what’s possible. Goh, with his great leadership and showmanship, has set out to do as much as he can to help developers and communities alike. With his Presidential term coming to an end, Goh wishes he could have done more than he already has. But with this, he’s passing the baton to the next contender.

away the Real Property Gain Tax (RPGT)”. The term mortgage or housing debts doesn’t at all sound alluring to some, but, Goh begs to differ. “I’d say that a mortgage or having housing debts are considered good debts”, he said. “Often, www.PropertyHunter.com.my

NEWS

LBS Bina’s 6th Media Appreciation Night

LBS Group shows

LBS. We are glad to share

appreciation for members of

that we have achieved a

the media with a delightful

total of RM1.056 billion sales

dinner. The tropical vibes of

as at 2 November 2016,

Hawaii filled the night as the

our unbilled sales as at 1

property developer, LBS Bina

November 2016 is RM1.45

Group Berhad (LBS Bina)

billion, and we are confident

hosted the media and its

of achieving our sales target

business partners at the LBS

of RM1.2 billion by the end

Media Appreciation Night

of the year. This would not

2016 recently.

have been possible without the support from the media,

Keeping with the ‘Hawaiian

our business partners and

Luau’ theme of the night,

associates. We look forward

a total of 196 guests came

to continue offering more

dressed in vibrant tropical-

exciting products, particularly

esque attire, hoping to bag

in the affordable and mid-

the best outfit of the night

range segment next year.”

award. As a gesture of

From left: LBS Executive Director, Dato’ Alan Chia, Datuk Barry Lim , Dato’ Sri Daniel Lim, LBS Managing Director, Tan Sri Lim Hock San, LBS Executive Director, Datuk Wira Joey Lim, Dato’ Cynthia Lim and Independent Non-Executive Director, Lim Tong Lee, thanked the Media during LBS Media Appreciation Night 2016 with their colorful Hawaiian Luau outfit

new property developments

Among the highlights of the

in the pipeline for 2017 that

night included the celebration

gratitude for their continuous

“Our commitment does not

will excite both new and

of Tan Sri Lim Hock San’s 60th

support throughout the year,

stop here. For years, LBS has

existing customers. LBS

birthday and the presentation

guests were feted by LBS with

been a strong supporter of

Bina’s strategy will focus on

of lucky draw prizes to 39

a delectable selection of Thai

the Government’s initiatives to

innovative lifestyle products

lucky guests. The night

dishes.

encourage home ownership

and affordable housing as

concluded with the awarding

among Malaysians. Moving Welcoming the guests, LBS

demand from first timer

of “The Best of the Night”

forward, the Group is

Managing Director, Tan Sri

buyers and young single

prizes to two deserving guests

confident of building on this

Lim Hock San, said, “This year

professionals remain strong,”

with the most outstanding

commitment with a series of

added Tan Sri Lim Hock San.

Hawaiian outfits.

has been a fruitful year for

Stamp Duty Exemption Should Be Extended to Property Purchases Up to RM500,000

The Edge Property.

“We welcome the zero stamp duty but we hardly find homes at RM300,000 and below in big cities like Kuala Lumpur, Penang and Johor. I doubt it will help in stimulating the property market in these areas,” Tan said.

The stamp duty exemption

Hence, he believes more

The Real Estate and Housing Developers’ Association Malaysia (Rehda) deputy secretary-general Tan Ching Meng urged the government to extend the zero stamp duty to property transfers worth up to RM500,000 from RM300,000, as reported in

for property transfers of RM300,000 and below was announced during the tabling of Budget 2017 on Oct 21 by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak. Tan was speaking during the TheEdgeProperty.com’s Roundtable on Budget 2017 held on Monday (Oct 24).

www.PropertyHunter.com.my

homebuyers especially firsttime homebuyers would benefit if the exemption covers property purchases up to RM500,000. Among other topics discussed during the roundtable was on how property prices can be reduced and the outlook for the property sector.

Tan believes more homebuyers especially first-time homebuyers would benefit if the exemption covers property purchases up to RM500,000

Other panellists were Rehda

Perlis chairman Datuk Rick

Malaysia deputy president

Cheng. TheEdgeProperty.com

Datuk Soam Heng Choon,

managing director and editor-

Master Builders Association

in-chief Au Foong Yee was the

Malaysia president Foo Chek

moderator.

Lee, Rehda Johor chairman Datuk Steve Chong, Rehda Selangor chairman Zulkifly Garib and Rehda Kedah and

Setia City Convention Centre Expands to Welcome More Guests for MICE Activities Setia City Convention

While the existing convention

Centre located in Setia Alam

centre caters to ballroom

expanded its convention

events and smaller meetings,

space from 9,225m² to

the newly built space is able

21,025m² in total to cater

to cater for larger scale events

to a growing demand for

such as exhibitions, motoring

its meetings, incentives,

road shows, concerts and

conventions and exhibitions

a larger capacity banquet

(MICE) activities.

dinner. With a sizable space

In an exclusive preview for its business partners, customers and clients, Setia City Convention Centre hosted approximately 500 guests at its new boldly designed halls. Guests were also impressed by the courteous and hospitable services provided by the staff of Setia City Convention Centre. “Over the past four years, demand for our convention centre facilities has been tremendously high. We have hosted more than 1,600 events spanning the spectrum of banquets such as weddings and corporate dinners, concerts, exhibitions, meetings and special events such as graduation ceremonies and motor industry roadshows

of 11,800m² and specially designed to be a columnfree hall with a height of 10m to 12m, the hall is dividable into two halls allowing event organisers to create

L-R: Datuk Wong Tuck Wai, Deputy President and COO of S P Setia Berhad, Dato’ Khor Chap Jen, President and CEO of S P Setia Berhad and Francis Teo, Head of Convention Centre, Setia City Convention Centre at the newly launched Setia City Convention Centre

a different form of space to suit their event requirements. The hall would be able to accommodate up to 350 booths for exhibitions or 4,000 people in banquet style seating or up to 8,000 people in the theatre-style arrangement. In addition, the convention centre now boasts a total parking bays of 2,000. The brand new halls will also feature individual drop-off areas, VIP holding rooms, reception, organisers’ office and three meeting rooms.

Artist Impression: An aerial view of the newly extended Setia City Convention Centre presents a boldly designed architecture

Setia City, Setia City Convention Centre was master-planned into the township to create value for its surrounding community.

To date, Setia City Convention Centre has received 50 forward bookings for 2017 and enquiries are streaming in rapidly. To enquire

with consistently positive

At the preview, Media Prima

feedback from our customers.

also confirmed that Setia City

Most of them loved our clean

Convention Centre will be the

and modern facilities, easy

selected venue for its NTV7’s

accessibility via various major

Golden Awards 2017 which

This is also in line with Setia’s

03-3359 5252 or email

highways and ample parking

recognises excellence in the

development philosophy of

setiacitycc@spsetia.com.

space as well as courteous

production and performance

LiveLearnWorkPlay where all

customer service,” said Dato’

of Malaysian Chinese

four pillars of the philosophy

Khor Chap Jen, President

television. It commended the

are fulfilled in every Setia

and CEO of S P Setia in his

venue for its flexibility and

township. Fronting the

welcome address.

ability to cater to the need of

convention centre is Setia City

the award ceremony. On top

Park, a carefully manicured

of that, the elegant interior

community park that is filled

design is befitting for an

with verdant greenery. The

extravagant event such as the

scenic view is one of the

Golden Awards.

reasons patrons return to

Setia City Convention Centre opened its doors for its first event on 3rd November 2012. The completion of the new halls is timely for the convention centre’s fourthanniversary celebration.

Located in the 240acre commercial hub of Setia Alam called

about event space at Setia City Convention Centre, interested parties can call

Setia City Convention Centre as a preferred venue for their events.

www.PropertyHunter.com.my

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NEWS

Mayland Launches Affordable Luxury Serviced Apartments

Malaysia Land Properties

Access to eight highways, the

Sdn Bhd (Mayland) today

LDP to both the Penchala and

launched Hampton

Kerinchi links that access the

Damansara serviced

NKVE and DUKE also means

apartments at Country

one can easily travel to main

Heights Damansara, the

destinations within the Klang

retail, residential and

Valley or onward to the rest of

commercial property

Peninsula Malaysia, whether

developer’s first project in

north or southbound.

over three years. Hampton Damansara’s close Built on 3.2 acres of land, this development will generate over RM700 million GDV.

proximity to established L-R: Steven Wei, Senior General Manager with Dato’ Kevin Woo, Managing Director of Mayland Group of Companies

townships means easy access to eight shopping centres

Hampton Damansara’s 700

2-bedroom to Dual-key units.

retail shops from cafes, to a

like IKEA, The Curve, 1U,

residential units are spread

The majority of the units will

mini-mart, laundry and a hair

Publika, Hartamas Shopping

over the twin 43-storey

be allocated to the 2 popular

salon.

Centre to name a few and

towers, pampering the

layouts: 2+1 bedrooms (915-

a choice of ten public,

residents with the 70,000

924sq.ft.) and 3+1 bedrooms

Each of the 700 units will be

sq. ft. lifestyle floor with 46

(1,351sq.ft.) with 60% and

equipped with branded home

including (SJK (C) Puay Chai,

35% respectively.

appliances – from refrigerator,

SMK Bandar Utama, British

washing machine to hoods

International School KL and

and hobs, built-in microwave,

the International School @

fully fitted air conditioners for

Desa Park.

luxury serviced apartments,

EXCELLENT FACILITIES, QUALITY FURNISHING AND IMPREGNABLE SECURITY

ceiling and kitchen cabinets

“Over the past couple of years

located at the prestigious

“The address dictates luxury,

and practical and functional

of consolidating our product

Country Heights Damansara

and this is extensively

fixtures in all bathrooms. “All

and service offering, my team

address, which towers over

reflected in Hampton

our new owners will need

and I have embarked on a

the backdrop of a pristine

Damansara,” added Dato’

to do is to complete their

quest to bring changes and

green lung,” said Dato’ Kevin

Woo. “From the lifestyle floor

home by furnishing the rest

improvements for the benefit

Woo, Managing Director of

to the beautiful 800ft length

with their own preferred

of our customers. As an

Mayland Group of Companies.

of continuous landscaping

choice.” added Dato’ Woo.

architect by training, I am also

and to our purpose designed

“Buyers will be captivated by

very focused on the quality of

units, you can feel that luxury

the exceptional quality of the

products developed for our

is everywhere.’

development.”

customers. On the product

facilities for sports, leisure and entertainment. “Hampton Damansara is a development of affordable

“We have used the last few years to rethink, reflect and listen to market needs and,

Chinese and private schools

rooms and living hall, plaster

front, Mayland will adopt

we are proud to be able to

The RM5.8 million 70,000

To provide the comfort of

the CONQUAS accreditation

create a different proposition

sq. ft. lifestyle floor at

security to the residents, the

process that ensures quality

for home seekers who are

Hampton Damansara will be a

development is designed with

of workmanship and materials

today more discerning than

conversation piece by itself.

impregnable security of over

is never compromised.

ever before. We believe

five tiers of protection.

Hampton Damansara is the

Featuring 46 lifestyle facilities

defining home choice.”

including the first crystal

Quality will be assured with Hampton Damansara’s strict

apartment development in

UNRIVALLED SERVICE, QUALITY, PRICE AND LOCATION

Malaysia, an Olympic-size salt

The easy access and

Practicality does not mean a

Assessment System), a

water swimming pool, aqua

convenient connectivity to

compromise on design and

Singapore-certified standard

gym, yoga deck, children’s

Hampton Damansara will

layout. The market insights

assessment system that

water playground, indoor

be through the main Lebuh

have helped the team to

dictates a minimum

golf simulator and many

Damansara-Puchong (LDP)

develop the right composition

construction quality level for

more, residents will be spoilt

highway as well as via the

of units with only 5 choices

completed building projects.

for choice. For residents’

more discreet and verdant

of layouts ranging from a

convenience, there will also be

hill-road.

PRACTICAL LAYOUT AND DESIGN OF THE UNITS

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salt sauna in a serviced

adherence to CONQUAS (“The Construction Quality

“On the service perspective,

during the handover process,

Price-wise, Hampton

KLCC by the second quarter

we have brought in a very

ensuring a totally stress-free

Damansara offers a more

of 2017.

experienced marketing team

and joyous occasion when

than palatable proposition

under the leadership of Steven

receiving their keys,” added

to potential investors within

Wei, Senior General Manager

Dato’ Woo.

this location, quality of the

and Mayline Chua, Senior

development and the myriad

Manager of Sales & Marketing,

“To minimise the time for

facilities, where affordable

and their team formerly from

defects rectification after the

luxury can now be a reality to

Sunrise Berhad. We will initiate

handover, and to reduce the

home seekers.

our customer-first policy,

waiting time for the residents

from re-training our sales

to move into their new homes,

and customer service teams

defects will be addressed

PRESTIGIOUS UPCOMING PROJECTS

to handle presales, purchase

during construction rather

Mayland has a considerable

and after-sales service to the

than at the tail end of the

land bank of more than 500

handing over of the units.

defect-liability period,” added

acres and are expected to

There will be dedicated

Dato’ Woo. “This will ensure

launch flagship projects in

and well-trained handover

minimal defects prior to

other prestigious addresses,

teams who will professionally

handover stage.”

located adjacent to Sierramas West and at Persiaran Stonor

address homeowner concerns

Naza TTDI Announces the Completion of MITEC The Malaysia International

destination has a total of 11

Trade and Exhibition Centre

exhibition halls, 10 break

or MITEC has just been issued

rooms and three media centres

the Certificate of Completion

across three levels. Each of

and Compliance (CCC) and is

the levels have their own

ready for the handover to the

designated loading bays to

Government.

avoid congestion. MITEC is able

With over 2000 luxury affordable and high-end residences in the pipeline, the group is expecting a GDV of close to RM1.8 billion. Interested home buyers can visit the Hampton Damansara show gallery located at the 8trium, Level 3 at Bandar Sri Damansara. For further information, please contact Mayline Chua at 012 201 8895 or email to maylinechua@mayland.com. my or log on to www.hampton. com.my

to accommodate up to 47,700 According to SM Faliq

visitors in theatre style seating

SM Nasimuddin, Deputy

and 28,300 in banquet seating

Executive Chairman and

at any one time.

Group Managing Director of Naza TTDI, “We are happy to

Levels 1 and 2 have four halls

announce that MITEC, the

with banquet capacity of

flagship of KL Metropolis has

2,000 pax to 2,700 pax. Level

been completed and issued

3 has a multi-purpose hall

the Certificate of Completion

that can hold up to 1,080 pax

and Compliance. We have also

for banquet purposes. The

met our commitment to the

remaining three halls have a

Government to complete this

banquet capacity of 2,700 pax.

landmark building in Kuala

All four halls located on Level

Lumpur.” He further added

3 are column free. There are

that this is another milestone

restaurants, cafes, VIP rooms

for Naza TTDI and hopes that

and 9 other rooms designated

through the experience and

for event organisers on Levels

expertise in building this unique

1A, 2A and 3A.

structure, he looks forward to pursuing more challenging

MITEC is the largest exhibition

projects ahead.

space in Malaysia with a gross floor area of 1.5 million sq ft.

This international MICE

The rounded shape of MITEC’s

(Meetings, Incentives,

design architecture pays

Conferences and Exhibitions)

homage to the rubber seed

From left: Idzham Mohd Hashim, Executive Director, Naza TTDI and Mr Khoo Thian Shyang, Project Director of Naza TTDI Group

as the source of the natural

– Asia Pacific Property Awards,

rubber industry’s contribution

Best Public Service Architecture,

to Malaysia’s early economic

Malaysia – Asia Pacific Property

growth.

Awards, Best Public Services

MITEC marks the start of Malaysia’s promising future in the trade and exhibition industry. MITEC’s ground breaking ceremony took place in February 2013 and the privatisation agreement took

Development, Asia Pacific – Asia Pacific Property Awards, Best Public Service Architecture, Asia Pacific – Asia Pacific Property Awards, and Best International Public Services Development – International Property Awards.

place in Nov 2009 between

MITEC is the first component

the Government of Malaysia,

of the 75.5-acre KL Metropolis,

Syarikat Tanah dan Harta Sdn

an integrated sustainable

Bhd and Naza TTDI Sdn Bhd.

development of world-class

MITEC had already won numerous accolades prior to its completion, namely Best Public Services Development, Malaysia

environment for business and for leisure. A residential serviced apartment with 616 units near MITEC will be launched soon. www.PropertyHunter.com.my

CONTRIBUTOR

Buying a

hotel room as an

Investment? By Miichael Yeoh

There are many types of investments available and nowadays, they are getting more and more innovative. Back then, buying a hotel room as an investment in Malaysia was almost unheard of. Today, this type of investment has started mushrooming everywhere. There are quite a few hotel investment projects in Malaysia right now. Purchasers are given an average of 6% annual return on their investment. On average, Penang and Kuala Lumpur gives an annual rental return of between 2% to 5% for other properties.

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A few benefits about hotel investment: 1. It’s hassle free. You don’t have to renovate and manage the property. 2. Agreed and fixed rental returns. 3. You don’t have to find tenants. 4. No blackout months when the tenant leaves. 5. You have the privilege of staying there for free. Usually, you will be given 8 to 14 days in a year.

As not every single investment is risk-free, I encourage investors to do proper checks before considering this type of investment. Some points to note: 1. Check the background of the developer. 2. Who manages the hotel? Go with the one that has an international brand managing it. 3. Banks margin of finance is around 70%. 4. Not all banks are keen to finance hotel investments. So be prepared for higher interest rates. 5. The location of the hotel is also important. Be sure there is demand. 6. Go and see the place before buying. No matter what the investment is—be it liquid or nonliquid asset—there are risks associated with it. Our fixed deposits in banks also have risks. PIDM only protects up to RM250,000 of your money per bank. So, with any investment, we need to plan properly.

If you want to read more on property investment from the perspective of banks, go to www.miichaelyeoh.com.

www.PropertyHunter.com.my

NEWS

S P Setia Clinches Top Spot at TPDA 2016

S P Setia Bhd is back as the Malaysia’s top property developer having clinched the No 1 spot of The Edge Malaysia Top Property Developers’ Awards (TPDA) 2016, as reported in The Edge Property. This marks the ninth time that S P Setia has clinched the top spot since The Edge Malaysia Property Excellence Awards was introduced in 2003. Last year, S P Setia was in 4th place.

All the winners at The Edge Malaysia Top Property Developers’ Awards 2016

CEO Datuk Chang Khim Wah

is no doubt about that. But

“It is good to be No 1 again

took home The Edge Malaysia

just as good times do not

and we are absolutely

Outstanding Property CEO

last forever, neither do the

Meanwhile, The Edge Malaysia

delighted and also honoured

Award.

bad times. And as the saying

Outstanding Property

goes, when the going gets

Entrepreneur Award, which

The Edge Malaysia Top

tough, the tough gets going,”

recognises industry leaders

Property Developers Awards’

said The Edge Media Group

who have contributed

sub-award the Best in

publisher and group CEO Ho

significantly to growing their

Quantitative Attributes went

Kay Tat in his speech.

companies was presented to

as we are chosen by our peers in the industry. I would like to thank my team as this is a result of teamwork and perseverance, so it’s everyone’s effort.

to UOA Development Bhd while the Best in Qualitative

companies to new heights.

Glomac Bhd’s co-founder and Also at the gala dinner

group executive chairman Tan

to present the awards

Sri FD Mansor and co-founder

“Going through this lower

Attributes was won by

period, I think now [that] we’re

Sunway Bhd.

were managing director

and group executive vice-

and editor-in-chief of

chairman Datuk Richard Fong

The TPDA anchors The Edge

TheEdgeProperty.com Au

Loong Tuck.

Malaysia Property Excellence

Foong Yee and editor of City

Awards. The awards were

& Country Rosalynn Poh.

back to No 1 again, the next thing we would like to do is to start growing and expanding again as we were consolidating in [the] last three years,” said its president and CEO Datuk

presented at a gala dinner on Tuesday (Nov 1) night where

The Edge Malaysia Pioneer Development Award, which is

Malaysian Resources Corp Bhd’s Kuala Lumpur Sentral CBD, IJM Land’s Seremban 2 and Eastern & Oriental Bhd’s

Khor Chap Jen.

Malaysia’s leading property

IJM Land Bhd remained in

experts gathered to recognise

second place this year. The

and honour the industry’s

rest of the top 10 are Sunway

leaders and top achievers.

concepts initiated new trends

“We launched the awards in 2003 to recognise the country’s top property developers who have shown consistent financial strength and delivered quality products to their customers to be used as a home or as an investment asset.

Sime Darby Property’s Subang

Bandar Setia Alam Sdn Bhd,

Jaya and Tropicana Corp Bhd’s

a subsidiary of S P Setia, took

Tropicana Golf & Country

home The Edge Malaysia

Resort.

Affordable Urban Housing

“The industry is going through a challenging period, there

Bhd (No 3), Sime Darby Property Bhd (No 4), Mah Sing Group Bhd (No 5), Eco World Development Group Bhd (No 6), UOA Development Bhd (No 7), Gamuda Bhd-Property Division (No 8), IGB Corp Bhd (No 9) and UEM Sunrise Bhd (No 10). This year is also the first time that Eco World Development Group (EcoWorld) made it onto the list. Last year, EcoWorld’s president and

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developers and industry

a new award that recognises innovators in the property industry whose development in the property field, went to

Seri Tanjung Pinang won The Edge Malaysia Property Development Excellence Award.

Excellence Award for its Seri Group CEO and managing

Kasturi Apartment in Bandar

director of IJM Corp Bhd

Setia Alam while Sime Darby

Datuk Soam Heng Choon

Property Bhd’s SUCI — Phase

and managing director of

BAIA received a special

Gamuda Land Sdn Bhd Chow

mention.

Chee Wah received The Edge Malaysia Outstanding

The Edge Malaysia-PAM

Property CEO Award, which

Green Excellence Award,

honours CEOs whose

which was jointly created with

leadership have grown their

Pertubuhan Arkitek Malaysia

(PAM), went to Masjid Ara

Property Managers, Estate

Damansara by Sime Darby

Agents and Property

Ara Damansara Development

Consultants in the Private

The merit awards went to

pullout of The Edge Malaysia,

Sdn Bhd, a subsidiary of Sime

Sector (PEPS) to recognise

Metro K.L. City Sdn Bhd’s

the awards is supported by

Darby Property and University

developments that have

Parcel G @ Pelangi Seri Alam

TheEdgeProperty.com, the

College of Technology Sarawak

provided outstanding rewards

and Gamuda Land’s Enya,

one-stop property portal that

and Technology Park by

to their purchasers in terms

Ambang Botanic 2 as well as

offers free property news, data

of capital appreciation, went

Gamuda Biz Suites for the

and analytics.

to Paramount Property

non-residential category.

Edusar Resources Sdn Bhd. The Edge Malaysia-PEPS

Development Sdn Bhd’s

Value Creation Excellence

Pangsapuri Kemuning

Award, which was created

Aman and Sime Darby USJ

in partnership with the

Development Sdn Bhd’s Avani

Association of Valuers,

at Bandar Bukit Raja in the

City Hall Inks Geospatial Data Sharing MoU Better and faster data

possible. Any development

sharing among relevant

on the property can also

agencies and more efficient

be easily detected, through

delivery of services and

the updated spatial data

development planning by

collected. This will, in turn,

the Kota Kinabalu City Hall

allow for faster evaluation for

can be expected with the

the purpose of property tax

signing of a Memorandum

collection by City Hall.

of Understanding (MoU) with the Department of Survey and Mapping Malaysia (JUPEM) on geospatial data sharing, as reported in Borneo Post. JUPEM, as the authority responsible for mapping in the country, said the signing of the MoU with City Hall will ensure better accuracy and promises better services to City Hall’s stakeholders, including other agencies and

“Indirectly, the income generated from such taxation can then be channelled to City Hall’s fund to provide better services to the public, including to beautify public parks, public infrastructure, and much more,” said Yeo. The efficient data sharing, he added, will also assist City

residential category.

Country, the weekly property

Partners of The Edge Property Excellence Awards this year are Jotun Paints Malaysia, USG Boral and Volvo Car

Kota Kinabalu City Hall

the Survey and Mapping

of the next development. We

Department Malaysia,

can then use our equipment

Datuk Ahmad Fauzi Nordin,

and capture the location of

pointed out that the MoU will

the new development to be

benefit both parties with a

included in our data, and in

more systematic geospatial

turn give it to the City Hall for

information sharing, through

their use,” Fauzi explained.

a smart partnership that will enable better geospatial data development as well as map updating for the use of the public and government

the public.

Hall in planning better traffic

At the signing ceremony on

developing the traffic network

“Geospatial information has

Tuesday (Nov 1), Mayor Datuk

in the city, including road

many uses. Our landscape

Yeo Boon Hai said that the

expansions, developing new

changes from time to time.

MoU will enable City Hall to

routes, naming of roads and

It’s a very expensive work to

be more efficient not only in

streets and developing more

capture information and keep

processing its development

parking spaces.

it updated. But government

plans but also in managing traffic, cleaning services as well as enforcement of its by-laws.

flow and other needs for

A more effective cleaning strategy, said Yeo, can also be developed as well as

“Take, for example, identifying

improve the City Hall’s law

the location of a property

enforcement.

that needs to be taxed. With better accuracy, this is now

The director-general of

Malaysia. Presented by City &

agencies.

agencies such as City Hall need such information to be regularly updated, or otherwise risk acquiring inaccurate data. At the same time, we need information from City Hall in terms of informing us the whereabouts

With a more efficient data sharing, Yeo added, problems pertaining to lack of communication between government departments and agencies can also be tackled. “The signing of the MoU means that other agencies and departments can now use the data we collected for their use. It is one step closer to providing better service and hence, better development. Because the geospatial information retrieved from this system is not easy to obtain is now available at the simple click of a button,” said Yeo. www.PropertyHunter.com.my

CONTRIBUTOR

NO GOOD PROPERTIES BELOW 350K IN KK?

“WHO SAYS?” By Property Kid

www.PropertyHunter.com.my

his is something I hear quite a lot: “Where to invest in KK, har? KK properties are so expensive these days. How to buy? Want to buy also don’t have money, lah.”

The same can be said five years ago, and I can assure you that in five years’ time, it’s only going to keep increasing. In Malaysia, with a majority demographic of 55% below 40 years old (I’m almost there), there’s no doubt that housing is something necessary for the future. Just don’t expect prices to be dropping like flies anytime soon. So, let’s capitalize on this instead of making excuses like, “Oh, I looked at this place before but I didn’t buy it because [insert excuse]”. Fact is, you’re always going to have reasons and excuses not to buy, and you’re never going to buy if you don’t have the balls to take the plunge. Now, I can’t help you with your balls, but I could definitely give you a few ideas of a few places that you could start your investment journey in.

www.PropertyHunter.com.my

CONTRIBUTOR

BEVERLY HILLS APARTMENT

01 T

Photo via Google Earth - Street View

his place has proven itself as

Rental ranges from RM600 to RM1100

Cons: Its old, and capital appreciation

an investor’s dream. I have a

which is considered affordable for

may be limited as there’s already a

friend who invested in 4 units

most renters, thus it’s easy to rent out.

boom that pushed the value up. The

here and is still looking for

My suggestion is to look into Phase 2,

fact that the Beverly Hills apartments

more. Units here usually get snapped

because it’s the closest to conveniences

were built for quite some time–more

up pretty quickly. Mature, good location,

such as shops. But even the second

than 15 years ago–you need to be

good and large rentals are what made

closest is still good enough. Also, choose

prepared to fork out a bit more money

my friend buy here. Prices are also still

a unit on the 2nd highest floor as they

for repairs such as water damage and

on the affordable side, from RM150k

are generally cheaper than the lower

other wear and tears.

to RM320k, which is the normal range,

floors, and when you rent it out, it

but with different square footage and

doesn’t make much difference in rental

different phases.

as opposed to buying a 3rd floor unit.

CYBER CITY APARTMENTS

02 G

Photo via Google Earth - Street View

ood location, close to the

Prices range between 150k to 330k,

Cons: The road leading into Cyber City

airport, good facilities,

with the latter being renovated units.

itself is full of potholes and not properly

good rentals and close to

Rental is good, from RM700 to RM1,100.

maintained. It can also get pretty

shops. It’s pretty much been

A lot of tenants are people working

congested to go in and out. Security

under the radar but recently, activities

in the city to airline personnel (some

isn’t so tight as they simply let in anyone

have been picking-up. It’s actually quite

MAS air stewardess used to stay there

who waves at them through the gates.

close to the city–in normal traffic, it

apparently. Hmm…)

takes about 10 to 15 minutes. A recent addition of a fresh market right across the Cyber Square shop lots have added some bonus points.

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COUNTRY HEIGHTS

03 S

Photo via Google Earth - Street View

ome friends and I agree that

I was also told that Phase 2 of Bukit

owners getting a 6% or higher rental

this is the place to look out for

Bantayan is going to increase in price.

yield. Shop around there for a good deal

to get good values right now. Knowing KKians, I think most

as there are many units available on the Prices range from 160k to 220k so there

market.

would stay away because it’s considered

is still room for growth. Apparently,

too “ulu” and there is nothing fancy

the road here will be connected to the

Cons: You’ll have to wait a while for the

around the area. But things may soon

upcoming Pan Borneo Highway–don’t

whole development to come up. And the

change as Gamuda Land have recently

ask me if that’s happening very soon, but

current tenant profile may be limited to

launched Bukit Bantayan Residences

we’re thinking about long-term investing

only low to lower mid-wage workers who

nearby, and with prices starting from

here, remember? Rents are good,

may not be as prompt with their rent.

RM420k, and it was selling pretty well.

between RM700 to RM1100, with some

You may have noticed that all

However, the difference in value

of these mentioned are walk-up

will definitely make up for it.

•

should be used as a guideline, but

apartments, but it’s the easiest to start your investment journey with.

Psf. or price per square foot not the absolute rule in buying

•

For high-density developments,

You have to start somewhere, and

buy one that’s closest to the exit.

why not now?

The morning ques, in which I call,

your investment property. •

Investing in property is a long-

“the que out”, may take you a while

term commitment, at least for

Now, few things first and other things

as most people go to work around

5 years or so, so be prepared

to consider:

the same hours.

to wait. In the meantime, collect rent while you wait for the capital

•

Shop around. There are many

•

Get a 2 or 3 bedroom if you can.

appreciation.

more sellers in the market now

Even when there are only 2 people

than ever before. In fact, when

staying, most will still need an

Some people also want to invest while

I checked on Mudah.my today,

extra bedroom for guests, storage,

they themselves stay in the same

there were about 109 house

etc. The tenant pool is larger and

property. But it’s very hard to be

listings for sale, but I suspect that

fits most typical families.

objective when you’re buying for your

there might be around 400 that are unlisted just in KK alone. There are more sellers now than buyers.

own stay. My advice is: Buy what you •

To get good tenants, make sure

love for your home, but buy what your

you do a screening and NEVER

tenants like for your investment.

compromise on the deposit. If a •

If buying walk-up apartments,

potential tenant can’t pay you a

get a 2nd or 3rd floor as they

deposit, what makes you think

are cheaper, but rentals differ,

they will pay rent on time?

between about 50 to 100 Ringgit. Property Kid is a property blogger and investor, who has a bad habit of going to property fairs and buying nothing. Property Kid. Always Learning, Always Investing. Go to propertykid.com for some gibberish rhetoric. www.PropertyHunter.com.my

Featured Property

KUDAT RIVIERA Sabah’s Hidden Gem By Property Hunter

n the early 2000s, Sabah was awakened with news of an exciting new project in Kudat. This project would be the doorway to attract more foreign investors to Sabah and at the same time, provide a fresh new concept of accommodation for luxury holidaymakers to the state. The idea was to build exquisite villas spanning in Sabah’s beautiful district of Kudat and was made possible by a developer who

presented the idea of a villa rental, slash, holiday home to a group of individual foreign investors who fell instantly in love with the concept. This project was called the Kudat Riviera. Halfway through the project, however, misfortune happened. The project ceased development and was abandoned for many years, which left the investors in dire straits. Finally, in 2011, they decided to take matters into their own hands and the Kudat Riviera project was revived once again. The group of villa owners formed a committee to oversee the project’s completion from start to finish. Today, ten years after this project was launched, Kudat Riviera is finally complete, and since November, its doors are welcome for visitors. All this was made possible through the sheer grit and determination of the villa owners themselves and Kudat Riviera’s General Manager, Roger Permal, who, despite those years of hardship, have formed quite a unique and special bond.

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Featured Property

Sabah’s Piece of Property Haven Kudat Riviera is an exclusive retreat development project that was sensitively-developed to blend in with its natural surroundings. Located at the western shores of the Kudat peninsular—merely five minutes’ drive from the Tip of Borneo and 20 minutes’ drive from Kudat town—this property is spread over a ten-kilometre coastline, overlooking the South China Sea. Seven of the villas front the beach, while three are surrounded by lush green paddy fields. Every villa is unique and designed following Balinese architecture, with a Balinese-style interior, garden and its signature ‘alang-alang’ thatched roof. These villas are also prefabricated, its wooden structures imported straight from Bali, shipped and assembled here.

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Serendipity Villa

Bayu Sabah Rice Barn Villa www.PropertyHunter.com.my

Featured Property

A Place of Sentiment When asked, most of the villa owners would admit to having one thing in common – and that is a deep connection with Sabah through fond memories of holidaying in the ‘‘land below the wind’ with their families many years ago. “My wife has always liked Sabah,” said James Tonge, an American, and whose wife is from Taiwan. “Living in Shanghai, it made a lot of sense for us to buy this property as Sabah is merely two-and-a-half hours away via direct flight, and having lived in the big city, it’s nice to come home to some tranquillity every once in a while.” James would spend about a week, twice a year in Kudat to escape the busyness of Shanghai. Tonge admitted that when the project had hit that bump back in 2009, he and the others were indeed discouraged and were tempted to just lose some of the investment and abort the project. “But then, when you take a look around, you have to admit that this place is very special. Just like the rest, I convinced myself that we should make this work,” he said, as he looked out to the spectacular beach view from his villa.

Secluded beach at Kudat Riviera Tonge’s villa, called Frangipani, was recently chosen to film a popular Korean cooking show called, ‘Go Go with Mr. Paik in Kudat’, which starred SHINee’s Onew and DIA’s Jung Chaeyeon, two of the hottest young K-Pop stars at the moment, together with Korea’s celebrity chef, Paik Jong-won. The show, which is a cable network tvN’s new cooking variety show, was featured in Korea in September and aired in Hong Kong, Singapore, Taiwan, Malaysia, the Philippines, Thailand, Indonesia, Cambodia and Australia, has somewhat snowballed Kudat Riviera’s popularity. It was just the kind of promotion that they needed and the timing couldn’t have been more perfect.

Balinese-styled roof, “alang-alang” 88

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Featured Property

Villa Rentals - A Flourishing Segment in the Accommodation Sector Currently, villa rentals are the highest level and fastest-growing form of tourism accommodation in the world. In major tourist hot spots such as Bali and Phuket, villa rentals are able to command sales value of at least US$ 1 million in the international market. Rental rates can also fetch up to 1,000 to 3,000 US Dollars per night. In more popular destinations such as the Caribbean, the value of a holiday villa can reach up to 5 to 10 million US Dollars, with rental of up to 10,000 US Dollars per night. Villa rentals can either be company-owned or privately-owned by individuals. The idea of owning a vacation rental property is that the owners can make the properties their home whenever they please, and alternatively, rent it out to visitors when theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re not around. More than just a villa rental, Kudat Riviera, has plenty to be proud of. When the land for Kudat Riviera was first purchased by the initial developer, it was nothing but a beachfront bushland. Now, it boasts ten villas, each with its own unique features and swimming pool â&#x20AC;&#x201C; a beachside paradise for holidaymakers who want to get away from it all. Besides being an excellent weekend getaway destination, Kudat Riviera is perfect for small incentive group tours, weddings and other intimate gatherings.

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Paving the Way for Growth Public amenities, such as electricity and telephone lines were not available in the area. Even though the compound was surrounded by villages (a large community of Rungus people live here), accessibility was highly limited. It was not until the project’s development started that paved roads started to be built and electricity and telephone lines brought into the area. Today, these infrastructures have benefited the communities in the area as well, and although, certain things such as mobile phone signal and internet access are still unavailable, that’s set to change very soon.

Kyle also thinks that Sabah needs more upmarket accommodations in the more adventurous parts of the state, not just near the city. “It’s been a long and hard struggle but it’s definitely been worth it! It’s so great for me to finally see this place come together,” Another benefit for the surrounding communities are the jobs

added Kyle who wishes to return with his wife to Kudat

and learning opportunities at Kudat Riviera, especially for the

sometime soon.

local youths. In the past, Kudat was experiencing a major youth emigration due to the lack of available opportunities. Thanks

Roger also emphasised that although the staff may not have

to the project, these youngsters who had been forced to find

professional experience in the hospitality industry, they have

work outside of Kudat and be away from their families now

something better – genuine warmth and hospitality.

have opportunities to return home. Presently, Kudat Riviera’s staff are all locals who hail from the surrounding villages.

Finally, he finished off by saying, “Better days are coming and Sabah is definitely ready.”

“At the end of the day, it’s also about creating something that benefits the community,” said Eddie Kyle, a Scot who was a professional footballer in England and owner of Sunbeam villa. “We hope that this development will bring great changes for the local economy, as tourism is one of the main source of revenue for the state. Of course, we also want the locals to be able to enjoy this beautiful place,” he said.

The Kudat Riviera General Manager, Roger Permal, would like to thank some Government agencies, namely the Sabah Tourism Ministry, Sabah Tourism Board, Chief Minister’s Office, Kudat Town Council and others that were involved, for their endless support in making the Kudat Riviera project a reality. www.PropertyHunter.com.my

NEWS

Market Outlook for 4Q16 and 2017

As for the financial market, measures announced to further develop the capital market is seen to attract more investors and increased trading activities on Bursa Malaysia which could provide support for the FTSE Bursa Malaysia Kuala Lumpur Composite Index (FBM KLCI), as reported in Borneo Post. Nevertheless, the research arm of JF Apex Securities Bhd (JF Apex Research) opined that gains (for FBM KLCI) might be capped this year although the fourth quarter is seasonally a good quarter for the year driven by windowdressing activities.

The research firm believed the limited gains for the FBM KLCI could be due to cautious sentiment in relation to several significant events. Having said that, JF Apex Research reckoned that downside risks could be mitigated by ample domestic liquidity coupled with dwindling foreign selling pressure on the local bourse.

Kuala Lumpur. (Photo for illustration purposes only)

“On a technical outlook, our study shows that indicators are mixed with the Relative Strength Index (RSI) hovering below the overbought zone while the Moving Average Convergence Divergence (MACD) trended sideways below its signal line. “The FBM KLCI could continue its range-bound pattern with support levels at 1,650 or 1,610 points and resistance levels estimated at 1,675 or 1,705 points. “(Thus), maintain our yearend 2016 FBM KLCI target of 1,730 points and introducing our year-end 2017 KLCI

haunt the financial market as investors would trade cautiously with reluctance of taking ‘long-term investment horizon’ in the market although it is still positive on the market outlook for next year.

and risk-on-risk-off trade.

JF Apex Research pointed

stocks with resilient business

out that the financial market usually exhibits a strong rally ahead of any perceived market crash that could

opined that investors shall see another volatile year in 2017. “We opine that selective stock

was fairly priced with the

report said.

selection is crucial for 2017 in

historical mean PE of 15.2 times. “At this junction, we deem the valuation as fully valued in the absence of any positive catalyst whilst immediate market outlook remains sluggish.

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which are trading at a lower price relative to their book value earnings, growth stocks which yield brighter earnings prospects and high-yielding models. “Resilient domestic consumption patterns,

production are bright spots

Apex Research in a recent

(PE), which was close to its

by investing in value stocks

Hence, the research firm

the recent market valuation

Additionally, the research firm are mindful that the ‘10-year downcycle’ for instance the Black Monday in US occurred in 1987, 1997/98 Asian Financial Crisis, 2008/09 Global Financial Crisis could

active investment strategies

infrastructure project

“Fundamental analysis wise,

times forward price-earnings

combination of defensive and

happen.

target of 1,775 points,” JF

FBM KLCI traded at 15-16

“Investors should adopt a

order to have a stock return that outperforms the market under current mature bull market. “With the broader market sentiment still cautious due to heightened volatility, we believe the bottom-up approach in stock pick shall prevail over the longer term by ignoring market noises

rollouts, and higher CPO for the market, helping to lift 2017 earnings,” the research firm said. Nevertheless, the research maintained that it is a trading market, requiring astute stock-picking for outperformance.

Mayor: DBKL Selling Land to Build Affordable Homes Kuala Lumpur City Hall

a 2ha of land and want to

(DBKL) has been accused

develop that land, then 30%

of selling off its prime land

must be for Rumawip,’’ he

to developers and mayor

said.

Datuk Seri Mohd Amin Nordin conceded that it

He added that affordable

was, but only to be able to

housing units are priced

build affordable and low-

between RM250,000 and

cost housing for the city’s

RM300,000 and measuring

middle-income earners and

between 850sq ft and 900sq ft.

the poor, as reported in The Star Online.

Amin Nordin said DBKL

Amin Nordin said DBKL had no choice but to sell its land to build affordable homes for residents as they are the city’s most important resource and it was his responsibility to ensure residents are able to afford decent sustainable housing.

lands to be released for

He explained that if the land belonged to DBKL, the local authority may either sell the land off in an outright sale or enter into joint venture agreement with developers to build affordable housing for its residents.

Kuala Lumpur, it is a struggle

“If it is DBKL land, then the

affordable housing for us,’’

developer must allocate 50% to build affordable housing such as Rumawip (Federal Territories Affordable Housing scheme). “If the land is privately owned and developers who want to develop their land for housing, they must ensure that at least 30% is allocated for affordable housing,’’ he said. “For example, if you own

must push for more public development to accelerate the construction of affordable housing, and at the same time, spur the economy. “It is one of the biggest challenges I am facing right now. Everyone deserves to live in a decent house that is affordable; but due to the high cost of living and the exorbitant house prices in to meet those needs,’’ he said. “People are criticising us saying that we are selling our prime land to developers. “Yes, we have to, but through incentives such as increasing the density, in return, we get the developer to build he said. He reiterated that DBKL will only sell to developers who have a good track record and can deliver. The mayor said that about 50,000 affordable homes will be built in Kuala Lumpur and voiced his confidence that they would easily reach their target by 2018 as the developers chosen were

The mayor said that about 50,000 affordable homes will be built in Kuala Lumpur and voiced his confidence that they would easily reach their target by 2018 as the developers chosen were reputable ones

reputable ones.

with some projects located at Wangsa Maju and Batu

The mayor cited the project

being hot spots due to the

near Kampung Pandan

projects being located near

Indian Settlement called

LRT stations.

Residensi Pandanmas 2 as a good example of a reputable

So far Rumawip projects

developer that is currently

are located in Pandan, Batu,

building affordable homes for

Puchong, Kepong, Segambut

the residents.

and Seputeh.

He added that apart from

“Our aim is to eradicate

building affordable homes for

pockets of slums in the city

the middle-income earners,

by providing decent low-

the developer was also

cost housing for the people

constructing 300 additional

currently living in unhygienic

low-cost apartments on top

slums.

of its planned three blocks of 1,920 units.

“It is about time. The people living in slumlike conditions for decades now get to own three-bedroom units measuring 800sq ft, which will be sold to them for a RM42,000 per unit.

“We want to give them access to all the comforts that residents so rightly deserve and the time is now,’’ the mayor added.

“I was told that the market rate for a unit in that location is between RM300,000 and RM400,000,’’ Amin Nordin said. The mayor said all Rumawip projects have received an overwhelming response

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HOT TOPIC

SUITE DREAMS

Buying a hotel room as an investment The hotel or resort rooms investment isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t a new concept and has been around for a while and if chosen wisely, can offer fantastic returns and security. Back in the post-war era, rich Americans would buy rooms in their favourite European hotels so that they would be available when they go there for a holiday. The hotels received a lump sum and could sell the rooms to other paying guests when the owners werenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t using it and in return, the owners would receive income from it. By Property Hunter

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oday, there is a wider range of investors. Anyone can benefit from the income paid by this high-yielding hotel investment.

There are subtle differences, but investing in a room in a hotel is just like a buy-to-lease investment, whereby a person buys the room with a rental guarantee to safeguard your investment while the management company will drive occupancy and ‘leases’ it out to paying guests staying at the hotel.

If you’ve ever considered running a B&B (bed and breakfast) or renting out that extra room in your house to earn some income without the hassle of cleaning the rooms regularly or having the time to market and take bookings, then hotel rooms might just be the right investment choice for passive income. How do you pick the right hotel to invest in? There is a big spectrum of hotels out there, but bear in mind that not all offer opportunities to invest, so it’s best to check which hotels offer such programmes. After you’ve listed a few choices, there are some other factors that you should consider to get the best capital growth.

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HOT TOPIC

1 2 3 Location

Facilities & Features

Management

A survey conducted by Market Metrix

Today, hotels are just a base for

This is probably one of the most

on 40,000 travellers around the world

travellers to explore local surroundings

important factors to consider. Invest in

found that location is the biggest single

or travel to work. Usually, in-room

a hotel that benefits from a reputable,

factor in hotel choice. And just like any

facilities are more important that the

first rate management team. Hotel room

property investment, location plays an

hotelâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s amenities and facilities. Sure,

investment offers the potential for great

important role.

facilities such as pools, spas, golf courses

income and capital growth so success in

and so on will increase the success

any investment depends on how well the

However, different locations will attract

of investments, but they appeal to a

business is run. Poor management can

different types of guests and provide

niche market and are most commonly

destroy even the best hotel in the best

different facilities. A city centre hotel will

associated with tourist hotels in large

location.

have different types of holidaymakers

resorts.

than a hotel or resort with a golf course.

Examine how well the management An in-house restaurant and bar, on-

team has performed with its previous

For the best appeal, consider hotels

site parking, and especially Wi-Fi are

hotels. Today, many hotel rooms are

that are close to transport links as well

equally appealing; and if managed by

booked online and one of the most

as local attractions. Such hotel location

an experienced hotel management

important factors to look for in a hotel

would have the widest appeal for both

company and a good marketing team to

management company is its online

travellers and business travellers alike.

maintain the high-quality standards of its

presence. Make sure the hotel is

facilities and customer service will also

connected to the major travel booking

increase re-visits which would lead to

engines and aggregators. As the hotelâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

higher yielding hotel rooms.

reputation increases, a top-class management company will ensure that the hotel benefits from higher-thanaverage repeat bookings. Reputation can be found easily online these days. According to TripAdvisor, 93% of hotel guests find reviews important and 53% wouldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t book a hotel without reading a positive guest opinion.

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4 5 6 Local Economy

Business Travellers

Tourism

The income and occupancy rates of

Motels were the most common form

Another aspect to affect the hotel’s

the hotel industry traditionally follow

of overnight accommodation for

success is tourism. Tourists are the

the tide of the economy. The local

salespeople. As the economy evolves,

largest sectors of hotel users. As part

economy is likely to go through a period

today, the type of business traveller

of your research, find out what sort of

of associated growth where regions

has broadened, from company execs

efforts are being done to boost tourism

are about to benefit from large-scale

visiting other business locations,

to the surrounding area such as cultural

infrastructure development. Therefore,

business clients, to freelancers and

events and places of interest.

as the economic climate improves, the

startups, or business travellers attending

hotel industry will follow. Just be aware

conferences, conventions and trade

Attractions around the hotel will surely

that when it comes to hotel rooms as an

events.

affect occupancy rates. However, in

investment, in most cases, they should

Hotels which are close to business

the case of city centre hotels near

be viewed as a long-term hold to reap

areas will be more likely to attract a

conference facilities, bookings can be

the best returns. An investment in hotel

substantial stream of business travellers.

expected to be consistent without so

rooms is an investment in the economy.

They would also need facilities such as

much reliance on tourism.

Wi-Fi, in-house restaurant and/or room It’s extremely important to know

services and laundry.

that there is no ‘one size fits all’ type of agreement. Every agreement is different and unique; therefore, both the investor and developer are at liberty to negotiate and agree on the terms of the investment. It’s always a good idea to seek legal advice to make sure that you are fully aware of the terms and conditions stated because the rights and liabilities of the investor and the developer depend solely on the terms stated in the agreement.

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CONTRIBUTOR

BUY AN INVESTMENT PROPERTY FIRST BEFORE YOU BUY A DREAM HOUSE So you just proposed to your girlfriend. Congrats! Next, is to get a house and start a family. Not just ANY house of course, but a house that you and your future wife would be happy in and call home. In other words, your dream house. By Propertykid

www.PropertyHunter.com.my

ut reality sinks in and you realise that property prices in KK are rising faster than the number of illegals in the state and you start to have doubts. How, leh?

The common mentality out there is that people would think about buying their first home first. Most people, if they already own a house, would only then think about buying a house for investment when they have some extra cash to spare. Personally, as an investor, my first natural inclination would be to count the beans and cents: How much would the returns be if I invest in any property? I have been asked this question quite often:

“Where can I find a double-storey terrace house for around 500k in KK?” I usually respond by asking them where they plan to stay. 80% would say somewhere around Damai, Lintas, Luyang, Penampang and Likas areas. I tell them that it’s possible, but that it’s not really the type of house which I would label as a “dream house”.

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CONTRIBUTOR

Let me give you the definition of my Dream House: 3. Easy access to the taman, not too many twists and turns, roads wide

7. Little to NO down

enough and not too narrow.

payment required upfront. 8. Finally,

4. Good neighbourhood with

price around 500k.

good nearby facilities likes banks, restaurants, kopitiams, schools, etc.

5. A NEW development with a stylish façade, and generous land space.

6. Nice interiors with a built-in kitchen and move-in condition.

1. It’s either a landed house, a terrace house or a 2. Enough parking space to park 2 cars side-byside, so that I can just drive out with ease.

corner terrace house (some extra land, and so that I don’t have to see the neighbours).

Well, I hate to break it to you

so in hot areas like Lintas,

started doing my own

me against buying property to

guys, but landed houses

Damai, Luyang.

research to buy a property

rent out first, as I didn’t even

don’t come cheap these days,

Why do you think developers keep on building more and more condos while you find it so hard to find new launches for terraced houses?

as an investment nine years

have my very own house to

ago, the majority of people I

live in yet at the time. Well, I

asked had only one house or

am a stubborn guy and I did

one property—the very house

buy that investment property

that they were staying in—

first before I bought my own

which they had considered

house.

especially newer ones. The criteria above are impossible to get. Even your kopi-o costs RM1.20 five years ago—now it’s RM1.80. Why would houses be any different? Land is not cheap in KK, more

100

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I remember when I first

to be an “investment”. These people also advised

Buying an investment property first can help you start your investment journey.

Things to consider… A smaller capital requirement means that you don’t have to burn a hole in your pocket. It also means that you have more disposable income so that you get to enjoy that Starbucks latte. Example, Beverly Hills Apartment (priced between 250k to 320k) against buying a terraced house in Taman Penampang (520k).

A lower loan repayment per month at Beverly Hills (RM1,100) against Taman Penampang (RM2,300). If you rent out your apartment for RM900 per month, then you are only topping up RM200 per month.

Pick the location which has the best potential for a stable and mature rental market, preferably those that are 5 years and above their completion.

Pick units when a project just OC, (around 2700 units in KK alone in 2016), many landlords are fighting for your money and you basically call the shots (picking a unit at the same block as the MAS stewardess might not be a realistic dream).

Where then, you might ask, should you

condo for his own stay for RM2,000. He

Save up and work your way slowly—you

stay? Well, to start off, you can just rent

gets subsidized housing and pays only

will get there one day. Truth is, I am also

a room or stay with your parents. Sure,

RM200 more (2,000-1,800) for a place

renting for my own accommodation. And

it’s not really the ideal option—I know—

which is closer to work and skips the jam

currently, I’ve rented out my own house

but you’ll be renting a place in which

at the Coastal Highway. Smart, eh?

in Kingfisher. No joke.

you can afford while getting subsidized

Now, there is a reason why a dream

rents. Like one of my friends, who rented

house is called a “dream house”—

out his Peak SoHo unit for RM1,800

because it’s unlikely that you will be able

while he himself is renting another

to buy your dream house right now.

Propertykid. Always Learning. Always Investing.

Property Kid is a property blogger and investor, who has a bad habit of going to property fairs and buying nothing. Go to propertykid.com for some gibberish rhetoric.

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101

NEWS

EcoFirst to Launch RM600 Million Project Next Month Despite the slowdown in the

be better in the financial year

property market, EcoFirst

ending May 30, 2017 (FY17)

Consolidated Bhd targets

on the back of higher rental

to boost sales with the

income from our mall, South

launch of its biggest project

City Plaza in Seri Kembangan

next month, as reported in

as well as realising the sales

Property Guru.

from the first phase of

Ampang Ukay development,” Notably, the company will

he said after the company’s

launch residential and

AGM.

commercial units with combined gross development

Meanwhile, EcoFirst is nearing

value (GDV) of RM600 million

completion of its Upper East

in November, according to

@ Tiger Lane residential

group chief executive officer

An artist’s impression of Liberty Arc, Ampang

our returns to shareholders

mall, it is not easy to sell and

project in Ipoh.

by focusing on our Ampang

it also provides recurring

Ukay project,” commented

income to the company,” he

With GDV of around RM302

Tiong.

said.

EcoFirst saw its net profit for

“Next year we are targeting

Datuk Tiong Kwing Hee. It will be part of its RM5 billion

million, the 529-unit project is

project Ampang Ukay, which

expected to be completed in

it is developing for more than

February 2017, said Tiong.

the financial year ended 31

the rental income to grow to

May 2016 soar to RM16.1

RM16 million a year on the back of higher tenant rate.”

10 years on an 87acre site. During the shareholder’s

million from RM6.1 million

EcoFirst’s largest development

meeting, EcoFirst also

during the previous year,

project thus far, the Ampang

obtained approval to dispose

while revenue jumped 49

Tiong also revealed the

Ukay mixed development

of its 1Segamat Mall in Johor

percent to RM121.2 million.

company’s plan to acquire

project is situated on the

for RM104 million cash to

outskirt of the Kuala Lumpur

Hektar Real Estate Investment

city centre, fronting the Ulu

Trust. “We made a strategic decision to sell our investment

Tiong noted that EcoFirst is

property, in order to unlock

also involved in the property

more of the company’s

investment business.

potential…The sales allows us to further strengthen our

“Our revenue is expected to

balance sheet and improve

Property Prices to Improve From 2018

102

www.PropertyHunter.com.my

“South City Plaza is a strata

Uncertainties’.

space expected to complete

is a cycle.

Property Guru.

Kembangan.

things are

Everything

2018 to 2019, as reported in

its South City Plaza mall in Seri

“With the additional office

forever.

to start improving only in

company has no plan to sell

Market: Opportunities amidst

be like that

expects the property market

Moreover, Toing said the

“Although

now, it won’t

of investments Siva Shanker

bottom line were boosted by

looking bad

Axis REIT Managers Bhd head

The company’s top line and its Tiger Lane project in Ipoh.

Kelang part of the Middle Ring Road II.

more land in the Klang Valley.

2017 will see the market finding its level and the knee jerk reaction will subside,” said Siva at a seminar entitled ‘The Malaysian Property

“2018/2019 will see the market beginning to level out and start its upward trend again while 2020/2021 will see the market peaking again,” he added. Notably, the commercial office space market is expected to remain lacklustre in 2016 and 2017.

by end of 2016 on top of the still available space in the Klang Valley, the general market will continue to be a tenants’ market,” said Siva, who also served as former president of the Malaysian Institute of Estate Agents.

Chi Fitness and Loudspeaker Ink MoU With Mitraland’s Pier 8

“From the very start our goal

air performance spaces and

was to cater to the improving

a wealth of lush landscaping.

lifestyles of Klang residents,

GDP Architects, an award

offering everything from

winning architectural firm are

seafood dining to new

responsible for the design of

lifestyle experiences. As a

Pier 8.

bespoke, neighbourhood retail space, Pier 8 has the

Mr. Chuah Theong Yee, Group

opportunity to become a

CEO of Mitraland added

part of their daily lives”,

“We want Pier8 at Gravit8 to

says Chuah Theong Yee,

be synonymous with great

Chief Executive Officer of Mitraland Group. Mitraland Group today signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with two key tenants Chi Fitness and Loudspeaker for its new maritime-themed, bespoke retail destination Pier 8 that is expected to be completed in Q1, 2020 together with Gravit8’s Phase 2A serviced apartments. Timbalan Yang Dipertua, Majlis Perbandaran Klang, Tuan Adi Faizal bin Ahmad Tamizi witnessed the ceremony which was held at the Gravit8 Sales Gallery. Built adjacent to an 8 acre place making lake, a future focal point for Klang South, Pier 8 will be Klang’s latest sub-urban, trendy hotspot with unique, dynamic spaces for leisure, dining and entertainment for surrounding southern Klang communities. Located within Gravit8, a 15-acre freehold mixed-use development, Pier 8 will be

Group Shot: (from left)Randy Bozeman, Director of CHi Fitness, Dato Johan Ariffin, Chairman of Mitraland Group, Tuan Adi Faizal bin Ahmad Tamizi, Timbalan Yang Dipertua, Majilis Perbandaran Klang, Chuah Tong Yee, Group CEO Mitraland Group and Damien Soh, CEO of Loudspeaker

food, amazing ambiance coupled with an unforgettable experience”.

live underwater performance

to major highways and

When combined with the

arena. The aquarium will

established amenities,” he

larger Gravit8 masterplan,

also serve as an educational

added.

residents of Gravit8 and the

component where both children and adults can learn

Based on the market study

surrounding areas will enjoy a vibrant lifestyle with incredible

about fascinating marine life.

carried out by Research Inc

“Pier 8 will provide the perfect niche lifestyle retail space for the underserved Klang market. Our partners recognize the tremendous growth potential of the fastgrowing southern Klang corridor thanks to a growing number of nearby townships such as Bandar Bukit Tinggi, Bandar Botanic, Bayuemas and Bandar Parklands. We believe it is this growth potential that has attracted both Chi Fitness and Loud Speaker to become our first key tenants,” said Dato’ Johan Ariffin, Chairman of Mitraland Group.

of approximately 90,000

“From the very start our goal

households, with a population

was to cater to the improving

of over 370,000 people

lifestyles of Klang residents,

and RM 2 billion in annual

offering everything from

household retail expenditure,

seafood dining to new lifestyle

are currently within a

experiences. As a bespoke,

15-minute drive radius

neighbourhood retail space,

of Gravit8. There will be a

Pier 8 has the opportunity to

substantial growth to the

become a part of their daily

population and household

lives,” Theong Yee said.

a maritime food haven and

in 2014, a total catchment

income of the surrounding areas once the development is completed in 2020. The location is also expected to benefit from the proposed LRT 3 line extension that will

F&B fare.

Gravit8 which has a Gross Development Value of RM 1.3 billion also consists of serviced apartments, speciality retail outlets, a mall, corporate

be completed by August 2020.

offices, small offices/versatile

A lot of attention has been

200 room boutique hotel.

given to ensure that Pier 8 focuses on bringing family and friends together all under one roof. With a Nett Lettable Area (NLA) of approximately 150,000 square feet spread over two levels and 700

Klang’s first seafood hub. It will

“Pier 8, like its namesake,

parking bays, Pier 8 will also

also feature a first of its kind

represents a safe harbour

feature interesting design

in Klang – an in-mall salt water

for tenants to showcase their

elements including a maritime

aquarium which will showcase

products and services, a place

street walk which features al-

a variety of ocean life and

for their trade to grow. After

fresco dining and a selection

double up as an occasional

all, we are already connected

of gourmet F&B options, open

offices (SoVos) and a 150 to

Gravit8 is a 10 to 15-minute drive from Kota Kemuning and is conveniently located along Jalan Klang-Banting, opposite the proposed Johan Setia LRT station. It is also next to the Shah Alam Expressway (Kesas) towards Port Klang and is accessible by Federal Highway, North Klang Valley Expressway (NKVE) and the South Klang Valley Expressway (SKVE). www.PropertyHunter.com.my

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NEWS INTERVIEW

Proposed Bitumen Facilities in Sarawak Timely for Pan Borneo Senari Synergy Sdn Bhd

enhance our connectivity and

(Senari Synergy) and

open more areas for economic

Kemaman Bitumen Company

development,” Awang Tengah

Sdn Bhd’s (Kemaman

said in his speech, noting

Bitumen Company) proposed

that bitumen is one of the

facility for the import, storage

major components in the

and distribution of bitumen

construction of roads.

and bitumen-related products in Sarawak will facilitate

One of the biggest single

uninterrupted and timely

projects undertaken by the

delivery of bitumen for the

government is the construction

development of the Pan

of the RM16 billion Pan Borneo

Borneo Highway, as reported

Highway which is already in

in Borneo Post.

progress, he added.

A memorandum of

He further highlighted that the

understanding (MOU) was

state is also placing emphasis

signed yesterday between the

on rural transformation and

two companies yesterday in

this is the main agenda of

respect of the collaboration

the government, led by Chief

for the import, storage and

Minister Datuk Patinggi Tan

distribution of bitumen and

Sri Adenan Satem’s ‘Go rural’

bitumen-related products in

policy to transform the rural

the state.

areas.

The ceremony was witnessed

“And one of the components in

by Datuk Amar Awang

transforming the rural areas is

Tengah Ali Hassan, Minister of

to put in place all the necessary

Industrial and Entrepreneur

infrastructure to improve

Development, Trade and

the connectivity. All this

Investment who is also the

infrastructure development

Second Minister of Resource

will definitely create a huge

Planning and Environment.

demand for bitumen,” he

He was accompanied by

stressed on.

Senari Synergy chairman Tan Sri Datuk Amar Bujang Mohd Noor and Chaiwat Srivalwat, chairman of Kemaman

Meanwhile, Senari Synergy managing director Jefri Ahmad Tambi announced in

Bitumen Company.

his welcoming remarks that

Awang Tengah commended

developed on approximately

Senari Synergy for driving the initiative to construct its own bitumen facilities together with Kemaman Bitumen Company,

the proposed facility will be two acres of land within the Senari Synergy Industrial Complex.

and for recognising the

The proposed facility will

opportunities made available

comprise of a 4,000 metric

from the continued economic

tonne tank, a 500 metric

progress of the state.

tonne holding tank, a loading

“The RM30 million investment in bitumen production is very

gantry and other related infrastructure and amenities.

timely as Sarawak is developing

“The signing of this MOU is

more infrastructures to

a reflection of our support

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www.PropertyHunter.com.my

One of the biggest single projects undertaken by the government is the construction of the RM16 billion Pan Borneo Highway which is already in progress

towards Sarawak State

Meanwhile, Somchit Sertthin,

Government’s aspiration

chief executive officer (CEO) of

to promote more local

Tipco Asphalt Public Company

companies’ involvement,

Limited the parent company

particularly state-related

of Kemaman Bitumen

companies, in the oil and gas

Company, highlighted that

and its associated industries,”

this proposed joint venture

he said.

(JV) will pave the way for collaboration and cooperation

“We believe Senari Synergy’s

between Kemaman Bitumen

active participation is becoming

Company and Senari Synergy

more relevant and critical at

in fulfilling the Sarawak State

this juncture with the proposed

Government’s aspiration to

development of Pan Borneo

improve its roads and highway

Highway project where

network for the people of

timely and uninterrupted

Sarawak.

bitumen supply is of utmost importance.”

“I do believe this will help spur economic growth and allow for

Jefri pointed out that with this

better movement of goods and

investment, there will certainly

people,” he said.

be more economic activities at Senari Synergy’s oil and gas

Despite the challenging

jetty and simultaneously will

economic environment, Awang

also help in optimising their

Tengah noted that Sarawak

land use at Senari Synergy

continues to receive substantial

Industrial Complex.

amounts of foreign direct investment (FDI) and domestic

“It is hoped that our industrial

direct investment (DDI). In 2014

complex will ultimately be

and 2015, the state received

the growth node or hub for

RM9.6 billion and RM11.8

midstream oil and gas sector

billion worth of investments

in the southern region of

respectively. In terms of

Sarawak. Concurrently, we are

ranking, Sarawak is second

also working on enhancing

behind Johor for both years.

and upgrading certain facilities within the complex that will increase the efficiency and delivery of our existing and new business partners,” he said.

Sarawak Always Welcomes Foreign Investments Sarawak is always prepared

investment and American

to accommodate legitimate

investment.

foreign investors who wish to expand their businesses

Saying the state and country

to the state, as reported in

had survived the ups and

Borneo Post.

downs of the world economy, he, however, acknowledged

In fact, from the very beginning

that right now everything

the governments of Sarawak

looked very bleak, citing

and Malaysia had always

the fall in prices of oil and

been business-friendly, Chief

commodities.

Minister Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Adenan Satem pointed out.

Sarawak is always prepared to accommodate legitimate foreign investors who wish to expand their businesses to the state

“But one encouraging light at the end of the tunnel is we are

Sarawak, he assured

unemployment because

“Indeed, we encourage

seeing an increase in foreign

that the state provided

Malaysians were very choosy

foreign investment in our

investment in Sarawak.

good accommodation, an

and not prepared to take up

environment conducive for

jobs in the plantation and

business and comparatively

construction sectors which

cheap energy.

made them resort to foreign

country and state. This has been a consistent policy

Citing Samalaju Industrial

for us since the 1950s

Park as an example, he

from import substitution to

said it had attracted some

industrialisation until now.

foreign companies, which

Touching on employment, the

labour.

saw Sarawak benefitting from

Chief Minister said the actual

“If we look at the actual

“And our business-friendly

employment and the ability to

figures indicated that there

figure, in fact we have over-

policy has brought us from

provide skilled manpower.

was over-employment in

employment in the country

Malaysia including in Sarawak.

which indicates the success of

success to success. We have seen Japanese investment,

In welcoming foreign

Korean investment, British

companies to invest in

SBC Condo Launch Sold Out Within 2 Hours SBC launched the first

minimum net sale value of

block (Block A) of their

RM1.8 billion, will be built on

Jesselton Quay development

a 16.25-acre prime port land

at the sales gallery on

which is strategically located

Wednesday, Oct 26. The

on the waterfront of Kota

exclusive preview of

Kinabalu city centre area and

the development saw a

to the northern fringes of

full take-up rate within

the central business district

2 hours. Avid investors

of Kota Kinabalu city at the

took the advantage of the

Tanjung Lipat locality. It has

RM1,200psf with incentives

good connectivity to key

offered during the 1-day

roads, highways and ports.

our policy,” he said. He said there was

Snippet of the crowd of investors

to cater to the anticipated

from investors. The project

demand for commercial

will integrate the Kota

The project has an estimated

properties within the prime

The Jesselton Quay Project is

Kinabalu International Cruise

development period of eight

Kota Kinabalu waterfront

poised to become an iconic

Terminal, marina facilities

years. It will be developed in

area and is expected to

landscape as Kota Kinabalu

and the Sabah International

three precincts comprising

attract both local and

city’s new waterfront and

Convention Center (a project

the Commercial Suites, Retail

international home buyers

premier tourism frontier

by Yayasan Sabah).

Mall (including retail units)

and investors.

which is marina focus

and Signature Precinct, that

complete with its own cruise

will include Signature Offices,

In recent years, property

terminal.

Hotel and Office. Once

development projects in

completed, the Jesselton

the Kota Kinabalu city area

Quay Project would be able

have received strong interest

exclusive event.

Jesselton Quay carries a

www.PropertyHunter.com.my

105

NEWS

MBO Cinemas Discover Ecohill Walk

Setia EcoHill Sdn Bhd, a

comprise three phases of

subsidiary of S P Setia

developments which are 80

Berhad, Malaysia’s leading

units of commercial retail

property developer, inked

shops to be built across eight

an agreement with MBO

blocks, EcoHill Walk Mall which

Cinemas today, to confirm

will house MBO Cinema on

MBO Cinemas as its newly

top of other retail and lifestyle

launched EcoHill Walk Mall’s

outlets and 890 units of

first tenant, taking up 58,000

serviced apartments.

sq. ft. out of the 170,000 sq. ft. nett lettable area (NLA) in the

“The signing ceremony today

neighbourhood mall at Setia

is to affirm our commitment

EcoHill, Semenyih.

to bring excitement to the residents of Setia EcoHill,

L-R: Koh Sooi Meng, General Manager of Setia EcoHill, Datuk Wong Tuck Wai, Deputy President and COO of S P Setia Bhd, Dato’ Khor Chap Jen, President and CEO of S P Setia Bhd, Tan Hon Lim, Executive Vice President of S P Setia Bhd, Lim Eng Hee, CEO of MBO Cinemas, Encik Ikmal Nizam, Strategy and Growth Director of MBO Cinemas and Cheah Chun Wai, Director of Sales and Marketing MBO Cinemas during the signing ceremony.

“It is our pleasure to offer

where in this eco-friendly

it and it is earmarked to host

own beyond its commercial

our warmest and amicable

environment, great memories

premium entertainment and

purposes.

welcome to MBO Cinemas

are created with loved

fine dining.

for coming on board with us

ones. In line with S P Setia’s

to further improve the quality

development philosophy of

of life in this sustainable

LiveLearnWorkPlay, MBO

township. EcoHill Walk Mall,

Cinemas will build an 11 halls

anchored by MBO Cinema and

cinemas with more than

a mainstream grocery brand,

2,000 seats featuring these

which will be announced

special halls such as MBO’s

very soon, will become the

own Premium Large Format

first lifestyle and commercial

(PLF) screen, 4D technology

development right here in

by MX4D, Premier Lounge,

Southern Klang Valley. Our aim

Kids’ Hall as well as MBO’s

is to grow EcoHill Walk into a

brand of Café, the Cafecito,”

thriving place for commercial

said Lim Eng Hee, CEO of MBO

retails and an inspirational

Cinemas.

space to chillax. It is functional, secure and convenient with

EcoHill Walk Mall will feature

a pedestrian walkway that is

a 4-storey mall with 2,000 car

seamless, connected and void

park bays to ensure ample and

of vehicles. Link bridges also

sufficient parking for visitors

extend the convenience of

while the commercial retail

reach between the serviced

shops features two, three or

apartments, neighbourhood

four storey units with standard

mall and the commercial

land size of 8.4m x 18.75m. The

shops; providing a safe and

Commercial Retail Shop have

secure environment,” said Koh

received strong interest since

Sooi Meng, General Manager

it open to public during the

of Setia EcoHill.

Launch Preview on 6 Nov 2016.

Spread across a substantial

The jewel of this development

land size of 17.5 acres, EcoHill

is The Gem @ EcoHill Walk with

Walk is planned into the

its unique Diamond Façade. It

sustainable township of Setia

is designed to be a premium

EcoHill to cater to the retail,

entertainment centrepiece of

lifestyle and entertainment

the entire development. The

needs of its community. With

23,000 sq.ft. iconic structure

an estimated overall GDV of

enjoys a fantastic view of the

RM900 million, EcoHill Walk

waterscapes that surround

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www.PropertyHunter.com.my

EcoHill Walk is located in Setia

“The architecture of EcoHill

EcoHill a carefully planned

Walk pays homage to the

sustainable township spread

context of the neighbourhood

over 673 acres. Conceptualised

by delivering a piece of nature

and developed as an eco and

to the shoppers and residents.

self-sustained township, Setia

Visitors will enjoy the state-of-

EcoHill has flourished over the

the-art architecture amidst

past three years, delivering the

the peaceful surroundings

RM80 million LEKAS-EcoHill

that embodies the spirit of

Link, landscape, waterscapes

sustainability that we uphold

and themed gardens, an

strongly at S P Setia and Setia

international school as well as

EcoHill,” Koh added.

over 1,300 homes to its first phase’s customers.

The overall splendid design of EcoHill Walk is inspired by

By year 2020, the projected

the Grand Canyon, where the

population within 15-minutes’

massive steep canyon walls

drive proximity is expected to

flanking each other create a

reach approximately 300,000

valley that is vibrant and alive,

residents. Furthermore,

bursting with activity and

approximately 10,000 houses

movement in its hollow.

in this township will be ready in the next 4 years. In

In similar fashion, EcoHill Walk

the pipeline, Setia EcoHill is

is designed to simulate a

planning to launch its phase 2

structural canyon where activity

semi-detached homes in Q1

is rife in its central walkway

2017.

lined by the commercial retail shops facing each other. Just

In the meantime, those who

as being at the Grand Canyon

are interested in EcoHill Walk

is about taking in its grandeur,

or leasing opportunities at

Ecohill Walk offers a lively

EcoHill Walk Mall can attend a

mix of a man made stream,

property investment workshop

water sculptures and lush

at Setia Walk in Puchong on 4

landscapes between a “canyon”

December, from 5pm to 8pm.

of commercial retail shops that

Public can call 03-8724 2255 to

serve as an attraction on its

secure a seat at the workshop.

www.PropertyHunter.com.my

107

NEWS

Ibrahim International Business District (IIBD) Set to Soar With the Spirit of Enterprise

Johor Corporation (JCorp)

market IIBD as the choice

today launched the Ibrahim

location for investors seeking

International Business District

an attractive, emerging

(IIBD) brand, introducing the

opportunity.

Spirit of Enterprise brand promise, and the 4 HOME

JCorp is also currently in the

lenses, namely Heritage,

midst of structuring and

Opportunity, Mobility and

benchmarking financial and

Eco-sustainability, goals

tax incentives with the state

that will define and drive

and federal governments, to be offered by IIBD in a

development and investment

Solemnization of IIBD Brand by DYMM Sultan Ibrahim

strategies within IIBD.

bid to become a catalyst

or HOME lenses, that will

infrastructure, future-forward

for economic growth and

The launch event was graced

drive development and

technology and seamless

entrepreneurial opportunities

by His Royal Highness Sultan

investment strategies within

connectivity, in line with the

for its residents and investors.

Ibrahim Ibni Almarhum Sultan

IIBD. The HOME lenses will be

Mobility lens. This moves IIBD

Iskandar, Sultan and Sovereign

represented in tangible form

towards a globally connected

JCorp also officially

Ruler of the State and

via the four Cornerstones

future where people,

commissioned award-winning

Territory of Johor Darul Ta’zim,

of IIBD. These cornerstones

information and trade move

sculptor Nizam Abdullah, who

accompanied by Her Royal

will serve as focal identity

freely, easily and effectively

hails from Johor, to create four

Highness Raja Zarith Sofiah

points to physically demarcate

within and beyond borders.

artistic sculptures as the key

Binti Almarhum Sultan Idris

the boundaries of IIBD,

Shah, Permaisuri of Johor.

while conveying a powerful

The Eco-sustainability lens

launch event, which took place

reputation for its brand pillars,”

aims to elevate the liveability

in PERSADA Johor International

said YB Dato’ Kamaruzzaman

of IIBD citizens and businesses

Convention Centre, was

bin Abu Kassim, President and

for a sustainable future in

followed by a lunch reception

Chief Executive of JCorp, in his

IIIBD, also to commemorate

with the theme of experiential

opening speech.

the call to be eco-committed.

dining.

The Spirit of Enterprise encapsulates the State Government’s aspirations for IIBD to serve as a catalyst of growth, attracting

cornerstones for IIBD. The

In that, all four Cornerstones

talent and investment, and

The HOME lenses underscores

will go beyond being a visual

The brand pillars of HOME

encouraging innovation and

key attributes by which IIBD will

landmark, integrating the local

were interpreted through

entrepreneurship. “The Spirit

be viewed, to further solidify

environment to produce a

artisanal creations customised

of Enterprise is the economic

the IIBD business case. The

collective anchor-point for the

based on signature Johorean

development proposition

Heritage lens allows a balance

residents and investors of IIBD.

dishes and desserts, as well

of IIBD, with trade and

of continuity with change,

investments concentrated

where the authenticity of IIBD’s

JCorp will be setting up

senses in taste, sound and

in an enabling environment

heritage, traditions and culture

an IIBD entity which will

visual experiences throughout

which is well-connected

is celebrated and built upon

operate as master developer,

the course.

with strong networking and

amidst its evolution into a

implementer and marketer of

partnering opportunities. It

world-class business district.

IIBD to further

as a holistic engagement of

accelerate local

connotes a concentration of progress and possibilities, to

The Opportunity lens

and foreign

steer a better future for all to

reflects IIBD as a place for

investment

live and do business in,” said

equal opportunities for all

capital, social

YAB Dato’ Mohamed Khaled

businesses and people, where

capital and

bin Nordin, Menteri Besar of

strategic corporate entities will

human capital.

Johor and Chairman of JCorp,

be leveraged to capture high

The entity will

at the event.

multiplier effects and spur

be focused on

a vibrant economy. IIBD will

shaping and

“A careful analysis of the

drive ideas and nurture talents

implementing

proposition of Spirit of

that paves the way for global

pro-business

Enterprise introduces the 4

opportunities.

and investment

goals of Heritage, Opportunity, Mobility and Eco-sustainability,

108

www.PropertyHunter.com.my

policies and IIBD will also offer world-class

plans, and

Map of IIBD

www.PropertyHunter.com.my

109

NEWS

Economic Environment Remains Challenging Amidst the challenging

public utilities as well as

economic environment,

accelerating agriculture and

analysts remained cautiously

rural development, which has

optimistic that Budget 2017

a positive multiplier impact on

will enable Malaysia to

the economy.

achieve higher growth next year. They remained neutral

Affin Hwang’s economist Alan

that measures and allocation

Tan said, “Domestic demand

announced in Budget 2017

should continue to be the

could stimulate growth for

anchor of economic growth

the country’s economy in

in 2017, improving from 4.7

particular during the current

percent year-on-year (y-o-y) in

economic situation which is

2016 to 4.9 percent in 2017.

still weak in particular the global economic scene, as reported in Borneo Post.

“This would be supported by the private sector, where private consumption is

While the external

envisaged to expand steadily

macroeconomic environment

from 6.1 percent in 2016 to

remains challenging, RHB

6.3 percent in 2017.

The development and upgrading of the Pan Borneo Highway began with a 43km stretch of Jalan Bintulu-Miri, from Jalan Nyabau to the Jalan Bakun junction

The research firm noted

It observed the expansion in

services sector are projected

residential subsector would

to expand by 5.7 percent

be driven by affordable

in 2017 underpinned

housing programmes.

by expansion across all subsectors.

“The mining sector is expected

It observed the growth across

1.4 per cent in 2017 following

all subsectors would be “Private investment is also

the higher output of natural

supported by wholesale and

expected to accelerate to

gas with the commencement

retail trade as well as the food,

of the Petronas Floating

resilient.

5.8 percent in 2017 from

beverage and accommodation

an estimated 5.3 percent

Liquefied Natural Gas-1

subsectors on account of

this year, driven by on-going

(PFLNG1), which is estimated

The research firm believed

strong domestic consumption

to produce 1.2 million tonnes

the strength of the local

infrastructure projects such as

and tourism-related activities.

the Pan Borneo Highway, the

per year.

economy will be supported by infrastructure project

Refinery and Petrochemical

Affin Hwang added the

“Production of crude oil

rollouts, demographic factors,

Integrated Development

expansion in information and

(including condensates) is

higher disposal income arising

(RAPID) and Mass Rapid

communication subsector is

expected to decline due to

from the full-year impact of

Transit (MRT) amid improving

expected to be driven by the

an increasing number of

reduced Employees Provident

business conditions index

growing adoption of digital

maturing oil fields.

Fund (EPF) contributions,

from an average of 92.5 in

services and devices by small

higher public sector wages

2015 to 94.4 in nine months

and medium enterprises as

and improved crude palm oil

period of 2016 (9M16).

well as households, while

(CPO) production volumes

“Infrastructure investment

Research Institute Sdn Bhd (RHB Research) expects domestic consumption to be

post El Nino weather. Apart from that, Affin Hwang Investment Bank Bhd (Affin Hwang) believed the government’s development expenditure will likely continue to improve in the economic and social sectors. The research firm observed the bulk of the expenditure will likely be spent on developing transport infrastructure, enhancing industrial and entrepreneurial development, improving

110

www.PropertyHunter.com.my

would also be channelled into the five economic corridors – Iskandar Malaysia, Northern Corridor Economic Region (NCER), East Coast Economic Region (ECER), Sabah Development Corridor (SDC) and SCORE – as well as projects identified by MIDA,” he said. On the supply side, Affin Hwang said the MOF expects the country’s economic growth to be supported by expansion across all major economic sectors.

the commencement of MRT services is expected to spur the transport and storage

to grow at a faster pace of

“Separately, growth in agriculture sector is expected to rebound from an estimated contraction of 3.3 per cent in 2016 to a growth of 1.5

subsector.

percent in 2017 on projected

Moreover, the research

Hwang said.

firm noted the construction sector is projected to expand by 8.3 percent in 2017 supported by infrastructure projects such as the Pan Borneo Highway, MRT Sungai Buloh-Serdang-Putrajaya Line, Sungai Besi-Ulu Kelang Elevated Expressway (SUKE) and Damansara-Shah Alam Highway (DASH).

higher output of CPO,” Affin

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