Issuu 80 - July 2016

EAST MALAYSIA’S LEADING PROPERTY PORTAL, MAGAZINE & EXPO

HOT TOPIC

PROPERTY MARKET OUTLOOK & HOTSPOTS IN KUCHING MELAKA: Old Charm With A Modern Twist | INTERVIEW: Recipe For Success DRIVE: Mazda Celebrates Its One-Millionth Mazda MX-5 | The Best Islamic Home Loans In Malaysia Gamuda Land’s Luxury Residential Property In Melbourne | Collaboration For A New Milestone In Dubai

EXCLUSIVE REPORT

CYBERJAYA A CITY OF ENDLESS POTENTIAL

ISSUE 80 RM9.50

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CONTENTS ADVERTORIAL | 10

MELAKA: OLD CHARM WITH A MODERN TWIST

PROPERTY NEWS | 22

PROPERTY, INVESTMENT & BANKING NEWS

FeaturED EVENT | 24

IJM LAND UNVEILS WINNER OF ILDA 2016

PRoPERTY SHOWCASE | 28

GAMUDA LAND’S LUXURY RESIDENTIAL PROPERTY IN mELBOURNE

PRoPERTY SHOWCASE | 32

DUBAI : COLLABORATION FOR A NEW MILESTONE IN DUBAI

HOT TOPIC | 36

PROPERTY MARKET OUTLOOK AND HOTSPOTS IN KUCHING

PRoPERTY SHOWCASE | 40

8 CONLAY: THE NEW FACE OF LUXURY

HOT TOPIC | 50

THE BEST ISLAMIC HOME LOANS IN MALAYSIA

INTERVIEW | 54

RECIPE FOR SUCCESS

EXCLUSIVE REPORT | 54

LIFESTYLE | 70

CYBERJAYA : A CITY OF ENDLESS POTENTIAL • Cyberjaya: A Globally Connected City Of The Future • Tamarind Square - Where Cyberjaya Connects • Eclipse Residence @ Pan’gaea - The Oasis Of Cyberjaya - Where Work, Play And Thrive Are Met In One Place • 10 Reasons Why Cyberjaya Is A Good Place To Invest • Cyberjaya As A Whole DRIVE One In A Million : Mazda Celebrates Its One-Millionth Mazda MX-5 FURNISH How To Style Your Home Like The Swedes GADGET & WATCH All Singing, All Dancing Bleeding Edge

hot topic | 78 COFFEE TALK | 84

INVESTING IN AUSTRALIA : WHICH MAJOR CITY SHOULD YOU BE INVESTING IN? • •

A Knowledgeable Investor Always Has Options An Insider’s Look Into The Property Market H1 2016

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ADVERTORIAL

MELAKA: OLD CHARM WITH A MODERN TWIST Over 600 years of history has seen Melaka transform from what was once a fishing settlement, has now prospered into a major international trading port along the Straits of Melaka. The historic city of Melaka has stood witness to the glory days of the Malay Sultanate and later the occupation by Portuguese forces in 1511, followed by Dutch rule in 1641 before the British finally took over in 1824. Melaka is historically important, because not only was the declaration of independence proclaimed in Melaka when Malaya gained its independence from the British, but Melaka was also declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site on 7th July, 2008. Being the cultural melting pot that it is, one can experience the old charm of its streets and colourful architecture, as well as enjoy a wide range of cuisines which will make you truly spoilt for choice.

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ADVERTORIAL

HERITAGE TRAIL Melaka’s heritage trail is the main attraction with its fascinating history and assimilation of different cultures resulting in some unique architectural delights.

Stadhuys

Christ Church

Hereen Street & Jonker Street

Christ Church is an 18th-century Anglican Church in the city. It is the

Heeren Street was for the “gentlemen”

The Stadhuys, which means ‘Town

oldest functioning Protestant church in

or “masters” in the upper crust of

Hall’ in Dutch, was built by the Dutch

Malaysia and is within the jurisdiction

society. Jonker Street, on the other

occupants in 1650 as the office of the

of the Lower Central Archdeaconry of

hand, was named after a place for

Dutch Governor and Deputy Governor.

the Anglican Diocese of West Malaysia.

“young noblemen”. Jonker Street was

Situated at Laksamana Road, besides

Originally painted white, the church and

once renowned for its antique shops.

the Christ Church, it is regarded as

the neighbouring Stadthuys building

However over the years, it has turned

the oldest remaining Dutch historical

was painted red in 1911 and this

into a clothing and crafts outlet and

building in the Orient and is now

distinctive colour scheme has remained

lined with restaurants and lifestyle

home to the History and Ethnography

the hallmark of Malacca’s Dutch-era

cafés. The best part of Jonker Street is

Museum. This massive red building

buildings since.

the night market on Fridays, Saturdays,

displays all the features of Dutch

and Sundays that sells everything

colonial architecture which include

from tasty treats to cheap keepsakes.

substantial solid doors and louvered

Meanwhile, Heeren Street may not be

windows.

as hectic as Jonker Street where the tourists throng to, but Heeren Street offers a more historic, old-world charm and provides amazing sights and stories.

Baba Nyonya Heritage Museum

The ‘Straits Chinese’, also called ‘Baba Nyonya’, are Chinese of noble descent who have adopted and merged the Malay culture with theirs upon settling in Melaka. This has been a gradual process lasting over 400 years since the great Chinese explorer Admiral Cheng Ho first brought Chinese traders to Melaka. Over the centuries, the Baba Nyonyas have developed a distinct and fascinating culture that is unique

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to Malaysia’s west coast, particularly

apart from having a collection of Malay

Melaka.

traditional wear, musical instruments

St. Francis Xavier Church

Melaka Sultanate Palace

and antique furniture.

Porta De Santiago @A’ Famosa Fort

The Melaka Sultanate Palace is a lifesized replica of Sultan Mansur Shah’s

Located at Jalan Laksamana, this

palace, built based on ancient records

church was built in 1856, in honour of

found in the Malay Annals. The Melaka

St. Francis Xavier, a prominent 16thcentury Catholic missionary. This twin-

Porta de Santiago is the sole surviving

spired neo-gothic structure was built

gateway into A’ Famosa (the Famous

on the site of an old Portuguese church

One), a huge fortress built in 1511 out

by a French priest, Father Farvé and

of dismantled mosques and tombs,

the church’s finishing touches were

commissioned by the Portuguese using

completed in 1859 by Father Allard,

slave labour. It was once part of a crucial

with the present-day presbytery built

structure used by the Portuguese to

in 1874. The church was believed to

maintain its colonial foothold in the Far

be modelled after the Cathedral of St.

East. The Fort is now among the oldest

Peter in Southern France, Montpellier.

surviving European architectural remains

To date, St Francis Xavier Church still

in South-East Asia.

serves its function as a Catholic church, with regular mass services being held

Sultanate Palace is unique, as it offers a rare glimpse of an ancient Malay kingdom which once flourished in Melaka. An interesting fact about Sultan Mansur Shah’s seven-tiered palace is that it was built entirely without nails and supported with carved, wooden pillars and featured a copper and zinc roof.

Portugese Square

St. Paul’s Hill

from time to time. Having been around for more than a century, the church’s structure now leans slightly to the left.

Kampung Morten The Portuguese Settlement is home to the Kristang community in Ujong Pasir.

This small community of around 1,000 Atop St. Paul’s Hill sits the St. Paul’s Church which was built in 1520 by a Portuguese trader named Duarte Coelho. Formally named as ‘Nosa Kampung Morten is located about a

Senhora’ which means Our Lady of

15-minute walk north of the historic

the Hill, it was a major chapel for the

city centre. The village is named after

Portuguese. After the Dutch took over,

a British land commissioner, J. F.

they renamed the chapel St Paul’s

Morten, during the British Malaya. The

Church and worshipped there for over a

area has since evolved to become a

century, until they had finished building

tourist attraction since it was declared

Christ Church at the bottom of the hill,

a heritage village under Malacca’s

after which they abandoned St Paul’s.

Preservation and Conservation

After stints as a lighthouse and as a

Enactment in 1989. Villa Sentosa found

gunpowder storeroom, St Paul’s fell into

within Kampung Morten is popularly

decay and has never been restored.

people are descendants from early Portuguese settlers. Originally known as Saint John’s village, it grew to become one of Melaka’s main tourist attractions, improving the standard of living of its villagers. Today, the settlement which is sometimes called Mini Lisbon, comprises a few streets with names like D’Alberquerque, Sequeira, Eredia, D’Aranjo and Texeira. At its heart is the Portuguese Square (Medan Portugis), which comprises a courtyard with a number of seafood restaurants, a couple of bars and a small museum.

known as ‘The Living Museum”. Villa Sentosa exhibits a unique interior design

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ADVERTORIAL

MELAKA FOOD GUIDE Food lovers will definitely be delighted with what Melaka has to offer. Food is one of the biggest highlights of the city, with an array of cuisines, all thanks to its diverse culture. Well-known for the delectable Peranakan cuisine, there are plenty of other dishes not to missed.

Chicken Rice Ball

Nyonya Laksa

Melaka’s signature dish has got to be

Satay Celup

Another popular must-try is the satay

the chicken rice ball. The rice is boiled

This dish has many variations but either

celup. This is a dish where an assortment

in chicken soup with other seasonings.

way, every Malaysian laksa is highly

of raw and semi-cooked seafood, meat

When cooked, it is rolled into a ball that

appreciated and cherished by both locals

(including raw meat) and vegetables on

gives its unique look and texture. The

and tourists. The laksa is pungent, rich

skewers are dunked into a hot boiling

rice balls are fragrant and savoury and

and well flavoured from its spices, chilies

pot of satay gravy.

the chicken tender.

and its broth, which is usually prepared

Where: Chung Wah Coffee Shop, Huang

using chicken and prawns.

Chang Chicken Rice Restaurant, Ee Ji Ban

Where: Juat Lye Melaka, Nancy’s Kitchen,

(halal)

Yung Lai Siang, 486 Baba Low

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Where: Capitol Satay, McQuek’s Satay Celup, Ban Lee Siang

Nyonya Kuih

especially on a hot day. This is a

Wantan Mee

traditional dessert made of shaved ice, coconut milk, green starched noodles with pandan flavoring and palm sugar.

Other ingredients such as red beans, glutinous rice, grass jelly, creamed corn, might also be included.

Where: Aunty Koh’s Cendol @Jln Batang Tiga, Jonker 88, The Kappan HouseWhere: Aunty Koh’s Cendol @Jln Batang Tiga, Nyonya Kuih – kuih is a term for Malay cakes – are bite-sized desserts that are colourful, usually taken as a snack. The

Jonker 88, The Kappan House Coconut Shake

Nyonya kuih comes in different shapes, colours, textures and designs. Some are steamed or boiled, some baked or fried but most are sweet and savoury.

This dish is prepared with noodles garnished with leafy vegetables

Where: Baba Charlie’s Nyonya Cakes,

and sliced pork while the broth and

Bibik Ong @Ujong Pasir, Yummy Garden

dumplings are served in a separate bowl.

Food Court Asam Pedas Fish

Melaka’s wantan noodle is distinguished The best way to beat the heat in Melaka’s sweltering weather is to have a cup of coconut shake. It is a concoction of coconut water, its flesh, ice cube and vanilla ice cream blended together in a mixer. The cool, sweet and creamy

by the noodles’ pale appearance and readily served with chilli sauce.

Where: Jalan Bunga Raya, Jalan Bukit Cina, Tua Kor Wantan Mee Mille Crêpe

aftertaste will leave you feeling refreshed.

Where: Klebang Coconut Shake, Batu Berendam Coconut Shake The main ingredients of this dish comprise of fish/seafood, okra, eggplant,

Tandoori Chicken

long green bean and tomato. This dish is cooked in asam (tamarind) juice with chili and different spices. This is another signature dish of the state.

These mille crepes are as synonymous to Melaka as Nyonya food itself. Mille

Where: Asam Pedas Pasar Borong

crêpe is a French cake made of many

Taman Merdeka, Amy Heritage Nyonya

crêpe layers. The word mille means “a

Cruisine, Asam Pedas Claypot Kota Laksamana Melaka Cendol

thousand”, implying the many layers of Tandoori chicken is a popular Indian dish consisting of roasted chicken prepared with yogurt and spices. The name comes from the type of cylindrical clay oven, tandoor, in which the dish is traditionally prepared. The naan, a leavened, oven-

crêpe. The crepes are thin and crisp at the sides, and the texture light, creamy and moist.

Where: Nadeje (Plaza Mahkota, Jaya 99 & Mahkota Parade)

baked flatbread, compliments the flavour from the tandoori.

Where: Pak Putra Tandoori & Naan Restaurant, Restaurant D’Tandoori Ice Cendol is a simple dessert that is

House

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ADVERTORIAL

Melaka’s rich culture and history have made it a popular choice among travellers in Malaysia. There are so many places to explore and flavours to sample in this UNESCO world heritage site. The best time to visit Melaka is during the weekend and this itinerary weaves together the highlights of Melaka in a single weekend.

FRIDAY

antiques and crafts. Start by making

performances, stunt shows and

your way from the south end of the

other daredevil acts. You will also

Evening

market near the bridge and work

find a courtyard with sculptures of

Start your Melaka exploration by

your way up, past local snacks, drinks

animals and the statue of famous

surrounding yourself in the colours

of all kinds, trinkets and everything

local bodybuilding champ, Dr. Gan

and chaos of Jonker Walk Night Market.

else that you would normally see in a

Boon Leong who is also an advocate

Opens only during the weekends,

night market. If you’re lucky enough,

of turning Jonker Street into a highly

this street turned night market offers

you might even stumble upon street

touristic area.

SATURDAY

Heritage Museum. Tours of this lavish

Museum. The museum itself is a replica

townhouse will take you back in time to

of the ‘Flora De La Mar’, a Portuguese

Morning

the glory days of Melaka’s Peranakan

ship that sank off the coast of the

Start the morning by renting a bicycle

population.

Straits of Melaka. The museum exhibits

an endless range of food, souvenirs,

and leisurely cycle up towards the Dutch Square. The Dutch Square is the city’s main highlight, surrounded by vibrant terracotta-red hued buildings notably Christ Church and The Stadhuys as well as a central ornate marble fountain. You will also be greeted by colourful, kitschy, musicblaring trishaws, all lined-up and ready to take tourists on a tour around the city. Cycle past the bridge and make a stop at a local eatery, Chung Wah Chicken Rice Ball for a hearty breakfast.

This famous kopitiam (local coffee shop) is notorious for the long queue of hungry tourists but if you wait long enough to finally get a seat, you will be served with ball-shaped rice and steamed chicken with soy sauce. Next, explore Heeren Street to experience the nostalgic ambience of old shop houses adorned with ornately decorated façades dating back to the mid-19th and early 20th century. A number of these buildings have been restored into galleries, museums, souvenir shops, cafes and boutique hotels. Learn more about Melaka’s history at Baba & Nyonya

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Afternoon If the afternoon weather gets to you, then head over to the nearest shopping malls, Dataran Pahlawan and Mahkota Parade to cool off while

an abundance of model ships from different time periods, ancient currency and everything you need to know about the trading history in Melaka.

Evening

doing a round of shopping. Otherwise,

Before heading out for another round

head over to Jonker Street for the best

of window-shopping at Jonker Street,

eateries. Look out for Jonker 88 to

grab a taxi to the Portuguese Square

enjoy aromatic laksas or a refreshing

for an authentic Portuguese cuisine.

bowl of cendol. Head back past the

Also known as ‘Mini Lisbon’, this square

Dutch Square and off towards Porta

is located in a small settlement, home

de Santiago (A’ Famosa). This iconic

to Melaka’s Eurasian community,

landmark was once part of a grand

descended from marriages that took

fortress built by the Portuguese during

place between colonial Portuguese

their occupation of Melaka in 1511.

and the locals. Try to time your arrival

You can spend the afternoon museum-hopping as Melaka is also known to have the most number of museums in Malaysia. Located within close proximity, museums worth visiting are the History and Ethnography Museum (the Stadhuys), The Melaka Sultanate Palace Museum and the Malaysia Architectural Museum. Another attraction several metres downriver from the Dutch Square is the Melaka Maritime

at or around dusk to enjoy the sunset view. As for the food, there is much to choose from the large number of different restaurants available. You will also get to enjoy cultural performances of music and dance staged by the community. Spend the rest of the evening at Jonker Street and after, if you’re not yet ready to go back to the hotel, hit the sky lounge at Alto. Sit back and relax while sipping a mix of crafted cocktails, delicious light bites and a variety of fine wines.

SUNDAY

Mods Café

Morning Kick-off Sunday morning by heading to Jalan Hang Lekir (off Jonker Street) for the Sunday Morning Flea Market. This is a great place for antique lovers and collectors to find old treasures and haggle for a bargain or two. Open every Sunday morning until 12 noon, you can find a variety of antiques, collectibles, ornaments, old coins and currency,

Address: 14, Jalan Tokong, 75200 Melaka, Malaysia

posters, paintings, vinyl records, religious relics and old

Opening Hours: 10AM - 6PM

magazines.

Kaya Kaya Café

To do next is café-hopping. There are plenty of lifestyle cafés in Melaka that provides good food, and great ambience.

Check out these coffee havens for that dose of caffeine and sweet treats:

Address: 32, Jalan Tukang Emas, Melaka, 75200 Melaka, Malaysia Opening Hours: 8AM - 6PM

The Daily Fix Café

Teddy Bear Café

Address: 55, Jalan Hang Jebat, 75200 Melaka, Malaysia Opening Hours: 10AM - 5:30PM

Address: Lot F3-021, F3-022, Level 3, Terminal Pahlawan, Bandar Hilir, Jalan Merdeka, 75000 Melaka, Malaysia Opening Hours: 10AM - 10PM Calanthe Art Café

Spend the rest of the afternoon reflecting on the whole

Address: Jalan Hang Kasturi, 75200 Melaka, Malaysia

trip in Melaka while taking a leisurely stroll along the

Opening Hours: 9AM - 11PM

Melaka River while taking in the relaxing vibe of the city and capturing photos of building façade painted top to bottom with mural art showcasing the Malaysian culture.

Backlane Coffee Address: 129, Jalan Hang Jebat, 75200 Melaka, Malaysia Opening Hours: 11AM - 11:30PM

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ADVERTORIAL

TIPS FOR EAST MALAYSIANS TRAVELLING TO MELAKA

MELAKA AT A GLANCE Area (km²)

: 1,652

There aren’t any direct flights to Melaka, but you can

Population

: 880,000

always touch down at Kuala Lumpur International Airport, Sepang or Senai International Airport, Johor Bahru then take an express bus to Melaka at an affordable price. If you’re travelling from Kota Kinabalu, the price for flights to Kuala Lumpur and Johor Bahru starts at MYR 109.00.

Flight time from Kota Kinabalu to Kuala Lumpur and Johor Baru takes about 2 hours 25 minutes and 2 hours 15 minutes respectively. Average price for flights from Kuching to Kuala Lumpur starts at MYR 99.00 with an average flight time of about 1 hour 40 minutes. You can also get a flight to Johor Bahru, price starts at MYR 79.00 and flight time will take about 1 hour 30 minutes.

Source: www.statistics.gov.my

(1.5% average annual population growth rate)

GDP (per capita, RM, 2014)

: 38,766 (7.6% growth rate)

Workforce (‘000)

: 402.4

Unemployment Rate (2015) : 1.0% Tourist Numbers (2015) Total

: 15.7 million

Foreign

: 12.2 million

Local

: 3.5 million

No. of Hospitals

:7

No. of Tertiary Education Institutions : 7 Green World Ambassador 2014 The Green Organisation, United Kingdom

TOP 8 REASONS WHY MELAKA IS THE LATEST INVESTMENT HOTSPOT THE HISTORIC CITY

GLOBAL ACCESSIBILITY

arrivals with seven internationally

The UNESCO World Heritage City of

Melaka is ideally situated between

acclaimed government and private

Melaka is renowned for its history as

Kuala Lumpur and Singapore and

hospitals within the vicinity.

an international seaport. Today, the

capitalises on the traffic flow from the

state has evolved into a melting pot

two metropolises. The upcoming Kuala

of cultures with a fascinating mix of

Lumpur-Singapore High-Speed Rail and

ethnicities which together, define the

the extensive upgrades to the Melaka

character of this multi-cultural city-state.

International Airport will ensure a

BURGEONING TOURISM SECTOR

significant influx of global audiences.

Recording more than 15.7 million

INTERNATIONAL TRADE

tourist arrivals in 2015 alone, Melaka’s

Solidifying Melaka’s economic progress

tourist numbers have increased more

is its latest international trade and

than 200% since 2006 and with that

tourism agreement with Guangdong

follows the growing demand for quality

province. Bilateral ties between the

hotel accommodation and top-notch

two states open up trade routes and

entertainment.

increase access to the vast China

UPCOMING MEGA-DEVELOPMENTS The globalisation of Melaka’s Trade,

market and vice versa. This move is calculated to catapult Melaka’s coastal

SAFETY AND SECURITY Melaka’s racial harmony and secure government reflect the nation’s civil and political stability which provides maximum assurance for tourists and investors alike.

PULAU MELAKA – NEW TRADE & TOURISM HUB Pulau Melaka is a man-made island just 5 minutes’ drive from Melaka’s central business district and just 10 minutes from the UNESCO World Heritage Zone. This is where Melaka’s famous attractions - the Floating Mosque and

city centre into a world trade hub.

Wildlife Theatre Melaka are situated.

imminent with the upcoming RM40

ADVANCED SOCIO-ECONOMICS

the convenience of the nearby urban

billion Melaka Gateway Project,

Melaka has more than seven

city centre, the value of Pulau Melaka is

the 66-acre Hatten Metropolis and

international tertiary education

set to increase with more tourism based

Mestika Island International Trade Hub

institutions which secure a steady flow

projects mushrooming in the area.

which will harness foreign capital and

of overseas students entering the State

investments while elevating Melaka into

per annum. Medical Tourism also plays

a global platform.

a vital role in driving up international

Commerce and Investment sectors is

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Merging the ambiance of an island with

MALAYSIA’S NEXT TOP SEAPORT AND INTERNATIONAL TRADE HUB Beyond tourism, Melaka is growing

Mixed development with lifestyle,

into a global economic hub. The

corporate, trade and commercial

future landscape of Melaka will boast

components

multi-billion dollar developments and innovations in:

Arts & Culture

Economy & Infrastructure

•

•

Melaka International Convention

Tourism & Transport •

Melaka International Airport Increased international flights, infrastructure upgrade

•

High-Speed Rail

Centre (MICC)

RM40 billion Melaka Gateway

World-class auditorium with 6,000

Project

pax max. capacity •

Impression Melaka

Shortened travel time between KL, Southeast Asia’s largest marina with

Melaka and Singapore

theme park, marine museum and

•

luxury residences •

Mestika Heritage Island Twin man-made islands with golf course, theme park, trade centre and

•

Upcoming Marina and Jetty

Iconic stage show helmed by

Facilities

renowned director Zhang Yimou

Boosting the city’s accessibility

Han Academy

heritage village •

66-acres Hatten Metropolitan

A self-sustaining education-based community

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ADVERTORIAL

HARBOUR CITY

The Catalyst for Pulau Melaka Multi award-winning development – HARBOUR CITY - is already creating significant buzz in the local property scene. Industry experts are calling this one of the most viable investments in Malaysia’s Southern Region.

Inspired by Melaka’s historic past as an international seaport, the iconic project, shaped like a vast luxury cruise ship, is home to Malaysia’s first 500,000 sq. ft. indoor and outdoor Ocean Kingdom Water Theme Park, a 6-storey aquatic-themed mall offering 800 retail units and 3 international hotel blocks.

The 33-storey marine-themed holiday destination and winner of Best Integrated Development at the iProperty People’s Choice Awards 2016, just recently unveiled Phase 2 Harbour City Resort Suites.

Harbour City Resort Suites

Mosque, Wildlife Theatre and now the

– A New Icon

towering icon known as Harbour City.

More than just a resort, Harbour City Resort Suites offers one-of-a-kind experiences and premium resortstyle living with world-class facilities, beachside ambiance and stunning sea-

Moreover, the value of area is set to increase with upcoming neighbouring developments such as the RM40 billion Melaka Gateway Project and the 66acre Hatten Metropolis.

views. Designed as a sky-resort with 18

Leveraging on Melaka’s recent trade

luxurious unit types measuring from

agreement with Guangdong Province,

470 to 2,200 sq. ft., guests will enjoy

the upcoming KL-Singapore High

seamless hospitality for that perfect

Speed Rail and the new upgrade and

island getaway.

added flights to Melaka International

Anchoring the project is its integration within the vibrant mixed-use

Airport, Pulau Melaka is poised right in the middle of this rampant growth of the historic city of Melaka.

development of Harbour City, a 6-acre, self-sustaining tourist-centric

Harbour City Resort Suites with its

hub. Harbour City Resort Suites will

strategic location, unique concept and

capitalise on the tourist numbers

seamless integration within Harbour

drawn in by the Theme Park while

City, the acclaimed City of Amusement,

directing the flow of guests towards

is indeed a game-changer in Melaka’s

the Shopping Mall. Adding further to

property scene. As an investment,

its viability is its strategic location on

the project offers attractive Secured

Pulau Melaka.

Returns Plans combined with long-

Pulau Melaka is a renowned tourist hotspot. Just 5 minutes drive to the city centre, the unique man-made

term property value appreciation for that all-important security and high yields for savvy investors.

island is home to the famous Floating

FAST FACTS Property Type

: Resort Suites

Acres of Development : 6 acres Total units

: 637

Lot size

: 470 - 2200 sqft

Price Range

: RM 1280 – 1512 / sqft

Tenure

: Leasehold - 2110

Gross Development Value : RM1.8 billion (Harbour City) Launch Date

: 14 May 2016

Est. date of completion : 2nd Quarter, 2019 Amenities •

Sky lobby overlooking the water park podium

•

All day dining restaurant

•

Multi-function meeting rooms

•

40m infinity pool, wading pool, family jacuzzi & swimming pool

Facilities •

360° rooftop view

•

Pool Bar and Sky Lounge

•

Gym and Spa

For more information, log on to www.harbourcity.com.my or call the hotline at +6012 719 1818.

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Discover and learn more about what’s coming up in Melaka.

Visit and get updates on the next MELAKA TOUR!

www.PropertyHunter.com.my

21

PROPERTY NEWS

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

Sabah

SB IN

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SW

International

Sarawak BK

WM

West Malaysia

Banking & Investment

Damansara Realty to Raise RM150m via Convertible Notes

BK

Damansara Realty Bhd plans to raise up

is the sole director and founder of the

issue the first sub-tranche of Tranche 1

to RM150 million by issuing redeemable

companies.

notes in the second half of this year.

The group intends to raise RM20 million from the first tranche, RM30 million from the second tranche and RM50 million from the third and fourth tranches respectively.

The note will mature in 2019 and

convertible notes to fund its property development activities and for working capital, as reported in TheEdgeProperty. com.my.

In a filing with Bursa Malaysia yesterday, the property developer said it had signed a conditional subscription

Damansara Realty will pay an annual interest of 0.1%.

The notes are convertible into ordinary shares in Damansara Realty on the minimum conversion price of 50

agreement with Advance Opportunities

sen each, being the par value of the

Fund I and Advance Capital Partners

company’s shares, with the maximum

Asset Management Pte Ltd for the

of conversion shares to be issued

proposed issuance.

amounting to 300 million.

The note will be issued in four tranches

With this, the group noted its share capital will increase to RM382.03 million

to Advance Opportunities Fund, 1

an open-ended fund established in the Cayman Islands. Advance Capital Partners will act as Advance Opportunities Fund’s discretionary investment manager. Tan Choon Wee

The application will be submitted to the relevant authorities within two months, Damansara Realty said, targeting to

Domestic Lending See 7% Growth

comprising 764.06 million shares upon completion of the exercise from RM154.69 million comprising 309.37 million shares.

BK

Domestic lending is expected to grow

On the bright side, the analyst said the

“And similar trends are seen for

seven per cent this year, or to about

banking industry would continue to see

deposits,” said AllianceDBS.

1.59 per cent of the projected national

strong demand from small and medium

gross domestic product by year-end,

enterprises (SMEs), in line with the

It trimmed its earnings forecasts of the

said an analyst, as reported in New Strait

government’s direction under the 2016

industry by three per cent due to higher

Times.

Budget to support SME growth.

credit costs for Maybank and AMMB.

The MIDF analyst said this was expected

Besides that, he said the kicking-off of

“With revenue growth predicted to be

on the back of a slower loan growth

some of the infrastructure projects later

challenging amid slower loan growth and

from corporate and household

this year might also trigger more lending

lacklustre capital markets, the sector’s

segments.

under the construction segment.

earnings growth of six per cent will be

He said this was in line with the volatile

Meanwhile, AllianceDBS said in its

off costs related to staff rationalisation

economic condition, with big companies

research note apart from weak capital

booked last year,” it added.

across all industries cutting their

markets, slower loan growth this year

expenses and amid the prolonged

would contribute to the expected

Stripping out the one-offs, AllianceDBS

effects of the Goods and Services Tax

slowdown in the banking industry’s

said core earnings growth for this year

and heightened inflation.

earnings.

would be two per cent.

However, the analyst said MIDF

AllianceDBS said the overall sector

expected growth in household loans to

earnings were down one per cent year-

pick up in the second half of the year,

on-year in the first quarter of the year,

following the government’s move to

dragged down by higher provisions led

increase disposable household income.

by Malayan Banking Bhd (Maybank) and

boosted by lower expenses, with one-

with AMMB Holdings Bhd in a recovery “Based on the slowdown in domestic lending recorded in the first two quarters of the year, we are expecting a seven per cent growth, from the 7.9 per cent recorded last year,” he told Business Times.

2

mode.

“Moderation in loan growth was apparent with mid- to single-digit growth versus the historical high single-digit to low double-digit levels.

1.

2.

Damansara Realty Bhd plans to raise up to RM150 million by issuing redeemable convertible notes to fund its property development activities AllianceDBS says higher provisions led by Malayan Banking Berhad have resulted in lower overall sector earnings in Q1 www.PropertyHunter.com.my

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FEATURED EVENT

IJM LAND UNVEILS WINNER OF iLDA 2016 IJM LAND’s inaugural contest for young and aspiring interior designers of iLDA 2016 concluded early June in Bandar Rimbayu bringing forth its Gold Winner, Leo Wong Kwan Theng and Silver winner, Goh Sow Yee. For the last two months both contestants furnished a Penduline showroom in the township under the theme of “Reliving Nostalgic Memories”.

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FEATURED EVENT

1

T

he Managing Director of IJM

interested there is also 3rd phase

LAND, Mr. Edward Chong

consisting of 244 units which is opened

Sin Kiat, took to the stage

for sale right now.

to talk more about the idea

behind the award and the contestants’ performance: “By organising this competition we wanted to give

2

“

young aspiring interior designers the possibility to put what they have learned at the university and their workplace to practical use and help them become better and more experienced in the business. When I

Besides that the use of

see how far our two finalists have come

Malay Batik Art texture

from their first submitted design to

plays a large part in the design. This is intended to rejuvenate this heritage of the industry and create a combination between spaces with Malaysian culture and art.

now having realised their own personal Penduline showrooms, I can rightly say that we have more than just reached our goal.”

Penduline is the name of the latest development in Bandar Rimbayu’s Fauna precinct. The 625 well-planned double storey link homes range from a gross built up area of 1,771 sqft - 2,283 sqft and offer a variety of layouts. Each of the Penduline houses is built on land area of 20’x70’ with an indicative

­­­ Lead Page: Interior design of the Penduline showroom This Page: 1.

Dining and kitchen area 2.

The gold and silver winner of the competition

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selling price starting from as low as RM 689,800. Penduline’s first and 2nd phase which are expected to be completed by the first quarter of 2018 are already 90% sold but for all those

The moment of the day had arrived and the Managing Director of IJM LAND unveiled the Winner of the iLDA 2016.

Amidst much applause, Leo Wong Kwan Theng was invited on stage to accept his prize as Gold Winner, a cheque worth RM18,000 and a Mac Book Pro. Goh Sow Yee was awarded with a cheque worth RM12,000 and an iPhone 6s plus for being the iLDA 2016 Silver Winner. Joining the celebrations on stage was the COO of Bandar Rimbayu Mr. Shuy Eng Leong.

Leo’s design concept is based on cassette tapes which are normally used as recording and playback tools for music. The idea of playback and the rhythm of music generate the flows and the function of the residential design.

“PLAY” , “STOP” and “PAUSE” buttons also play as the sub theme in this house as representations of the activities of humans and rhythm.

For more information, please log on to www.rimbayu.com or www.facebook. com/ijmlanddesigneraward.

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PROPERTY SHOWCASE

GAMUDA LAND’S LUXURY RESIDENTIAL PROPERTY IN MELBOURNE Malaysia’s trusted developer Gamuda Land will soon be unveiling its new luxury residences in the heart of Melbourne’s coveted Chapel St to local Melbournians in the third quarter of this year.

By Property Hunter

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FEATURED EVENT

Melbourne was ranked the world’s

full scope of incentives that will be

is the first residential project in

most liveable city for five consecutive

given. However, one of them will be

Melbourne to have limited-edition

years by The Economist and has

the chance for buyers to turn back

Lalique crystal artworks showcased in

become a hub for luxury property

time to even before the 3% foreign

its Grand Lobby.

investors. The cosmopolitan city

buyer stamp duty surcharge took

scored second highest for inflow

place, offered for a limited number

As much as it is an aesthetic wonder,

of millionaires in 2015, beating

of units. There will be a rebate of

the architects, have created an

Dubai (4th), San Francisco (5th) and

3% back to the buyer to offset the

enriching life within the walls of 661

Vancouver (6th).

current stamp duty and furthermore,

with their unique Vertical Village

buyers will not have to pay the AUD

concept. The community centric

$5,000 foreign buyer fee.

design comes with outstanding

According to Chief Operating Officer for Gamuda Land, Ngan Chee Meng,

facilities for entertaining, hosting

“Chapel St has always been alluring

At a gross development value of

dinner parties, a luxurious mini

for both locals and foreigners alike.

AUD$154 million (RM465 million), the

theatre, a 25 meter cantilevered lap

The location is an embodiment of

30 storey development comprises

pool, gym, sauna, spa pool, a well-

a luxurious lifestyle complete with

142 units of 1, 2, 3 and 4 bedroom

stocked double volume grand library

the modern day amenities that are

units and Penthouses with internal

and even a climate controlled wine

perfect for any family.”

areas range from 40 square meters

cellar.

to 271 square meters.

The sales event in Malaysia could not

Designed to leave a lasting

have come at a better time since the

An impeccably designed home, 661

impression, 661 Chapel St promises

Victorian Government has announced

Chapel St is the embodiment of

an experience residents and guests

an impending increase in stamp duty

6-star living with its modern clean

will never forget. From its classic

surcharge for foreign buyers from 3%

lines and attention to detail, a

elegant exterior to the inspiring

to 7%, from 1st July 2016 onwards.

signature design statement of award

artistic interior, every space is a warm

winning architects Bird de la Coeur.

“welcome home” and a testament to

For 661 Chapel St’s Malaysian sales

An additional feature that exceeds

Gamuda’s commitment to provide the

event, Gamuda has yet to reveal the

all expectations is the fact that 661

very highest quality of life.

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2

1

3

661 CHAPEL ST AT A GLANCE Type of Development Total Land Area Total GDV

: Residential Apartments : 1,435 sqm : A$146 mil

1.

2.

3.

­­­ Level 6 lounge and facilities floor Living room Interior of the penthouse

Location • The project is located 4km away from the Melbourne CBD and well suited to enjoy picturesque of the Yarra River and Melbourne CBD. • It is only two stations from the Melbourne CBD • South Yarra is one of Melbourne most affluent inner city suburbs and ranked as the Most Liveable Suburb in the World’s Most Liveable City.

• Chapel Street – An exclusive location at the fringe of the city.

• Predominantly a residential area, it holds reputation as Melbourne’s fashion and style capital with trendy restaurants, art galleries and street cafes.

Total Units & Size

Penthouse

: Carefully crafted to its finest to 169 units, - 30 storeys luxurious apartments, and sizes are as below: 1 bedroom : 40sqm – 58sqm 2 bedroom : 69sqm – 106sqm 3 bedroom : 102sqm – 135sqm : 265sqm

Nearest Public Transports • Tram : Malcolm St/Chapel St – Doorstep • Tram : Toorak Road/Chapel St – 4 mins walk • Train : South Yarra Station – 8 mins walk Commencement Date of Construction Expected Completion Date

: Beginning of 2016 : 2018 www.PropertyHunter.com.my

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PROPERTY SHOWCASE

COLLABORATION FOR A NEW MILESTONE IN DUBAI An Iconic Landmark That Will Intensify The Country’s Enterprise And Furistic Visions

Set to become one of the world’s most noticeable buildings, the towering skyscraper will be the focal point of a major new development that will transform the Dubai Creek Harbour area into one of the most desirable residential and leisure destinations in the world.

By Property Hunter

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DUBAI CREEK HARBOUR The surrounding area of Dubai Creek Harbour will become a 6 square-kilometre development that incorporates world-class master-planning, covering an area twice the size of Downtown Dubai. The waterfront development is centred at Dubai Creek, one of the most significant points in the history and culture of Dubai.

Known simply as ‘The Tower’, the new structure is being designed by world-renowned architect and engineer Santiago Calatrava, who is leading its design and engineering work. Calatrava has chosen Aurecon as the engineer/architect-of-record to collaborate with on a range of design and technical features for the ambitious project.

“

The Calatrava team were looking to work directly with our experts who have had hands-on project experience on other supertall and similar mega projects.

They were impressed by our open, flexible and collaborative approach”,

~ Adrian Jones, Aurecon’s Project Director of The Tower

The sky-high building’s prominent design includes a distinctive net of steel cable stays attached to a central reinforced concrete column which will reach into the skies. An oval-shaped bud at the top of the tower will house ten observation decks, including The Pinnacle Room, which will offer extraordinary, 360-degree views of the city and beyond. It will also serve as a beacon of light at night, with a lighting system that will conjure the features of a flower bud.

The high-profile project was unveiled to the world at a launch ceremony by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, UAE Vice President and Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai. Chairman of Emaar Properties, Mohamed Alabbar, hoped The Tower would encapsulate the spirit of Dubai.

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PROPERTY SHOWCASE

A TOWERING TEAM

A DESIGN DREAM

Design work for the project is already underway and

With the rich culture and heritage of UAE in mind, the

is set to be completed in a period of approximately

iconic Calatrava design was selected from six proposals

4 years. With a strong environmental and smart-tech

that were submitted by top global architectural firms. It

considerations, The Tower will be a compelling destination

is influenced by the natural forms of the lily, evoking the

that will add long-term economic value to Dubai and the

shape of a minaret, a distinctive feature in Islamic culture.

United Arab Emirates.

One of the most breath-taking design features of The Aurecon has assembled its top global experts to

Tower is the net of cable stays that extend from the tower

contribute to the project, with work being led by the

to the ground, reflecting the delicate ribbing of lily leaves.

company’s Middle East office with input from offices in

The extended oval-shaped bud and geometric texture

Africa, Asia and Australia. Dr. Andy Davids, Aurecon’s

set the template for the observation decks. The slender

Tall Buildings Leader, who serves as Aurecon’s Director

stem serves as the analogy for the structure, which is

of Design on the project, said that optimising proven

engineered to its most efficient diameter.

techniques and materials is fundamental to the project’s success.

Calatrava also designed the tower with a strong focus on energy efficiency and sustainability, including a highlyefficient cooling system to ease the region’s hot climate.

The water collected from this system will also clean the structure’s façade.

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Among the various decks within The Tower are two VIP observation garden decks that will recreate the luxury of the Hanging Gardens of Babylon. The building will also include numerous balconies that rotate outside the façade of the tower, an exclusive boutique hotel, and several event spaces. At ground level, The Tower’s Central Plaza will serve as a bustling neighbourhood centre, with world-class retail stores, a museum, educational facilities and an indoor auditorium.

The Tower is scheduled to open in mid-2020 to celebrate the start of Expo 2020 in Dubai.

“

“One of the secrets with courageous projects is not to use new techniques or materials, but to stick with what you know.

We must work to maximise the potential of those materials and techniques”

~ Dr. Andy Davids.

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35

HOT TOPIC

Property Market Outlook and Hotspots in Kuching In recent years, the homely ‘Cat City’ Kuching, the state capital of Sarawak has evolved to become one of biggest property hotspots in Malaysia. Its culturally rich demographic and laid back setting has made it increasingly popular amongst expatriates who are looking to retire, where they can simultaneously get the best of both city life and a relaxing environment.

By Property Hunter

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To find out more about the property market in Kuching, we speak to local real estate gurus, lawyer, entrepreneur, investor and co-author of Ho Chin Soon’s ‘Property Investment True Stories’ and ‘Location, Timing & Branding 2.0’, Charles Liew and Manager of H. Simon Real Estate, Colin Chong.

How would you describe the property

Charles Liew: The property market in

market in Kuching and Sarawak as a

Kuching has slowed in the last year or

whole?

two, along with the economy of course,

Charles Liew: One unique thing about the Kuching market is that, whilst prices in West Malaysia are more prone to

and we have yet to see major signs of recovery. The market sentiments remain more pessimistic than optimistic.

changes based on supply and demand,

With the banks tightening their loan

we have not noticed too much of that in

approvals as well, we are in a downward

Kuching.

spiral. Currently, some projects are not

Developers tend to come up with prices on their own properties and begin selling, but who can blame them if they keep selling their properties out?

selling too well, but then again, the good ones are still being snapped up. This is in contrast to, say four years ago, when any launches would typically be wiped clean!

Investors from places like Sibu and Miri

When the economy recovers, so will

have been known to like the Kuching

the property market. Even the best

property market and prices have been

economists in the world would not be

inadvertently driven up as a result.

able to predict when that is going to

However, this is not saying that Kuching

happen, but based on the indicators,

properties have no room for growth,

I feel things would slowly start to pick

because in the long run, most properties

up again starting the second or third

would likely prove to be money-making

quarter of 2017.

successes.

Colin Chong: Stagnation would probably

Colin Chong: Kuching, like most major

be the scenario we are looking at for

cities in Malaysia has seen a huge capital

the second half of 2016 and very high

gain on the property appreciation during

probability that this will be the case until

the five year period starting from the

the end of 2017. A lot of investors have

second half of 2009 till 2014. During

been asking me for the past one year

that period, we see a lot of houses in

of whether there will be a possibility

good residential areas gowing up by 80-

of property prices in Kuching taking a

100 per cent. Yes, some of the house

nosedive. My answer -- don’t bet on it.

prices double up during that five-year period. The same growth can be said for commercial properties located in some

With the current economic climate, a lot of local businesses are experiencing

of the more centralized areas.

considerable slowdown in their

But before that, we have seen slow and

GST last year.

steady growth. We are talking about a steady 4-8 percent growth in property prices annually. As a whole, the Kuching property market has been shown to give very stable return to investors.

What is your prediction for the Kuching property sector in the next year or so?

Charles Liew

businesses since the implementation of

Is now a good time to buy property in Kuching?

Charles Liew: For me, now is a great time to buy for those with cash in the bank because what we are seeing around Kuching is that some businesses are failing to keep up, resulting in business owners having to liquidate

Colin Chong

some assets, which more often than not involve properties. Property agents have been going around to investors pitching them undervalued properties, quoting things like ‘bank value’, ‘market value’ and ‘the amazing not-to-be-missed prices right now’!

Colin Chong: Yes, now is still very good to buy property in Kuching for the simple fact that Kuching still has a lot of room to grow in terms of developments and growth.

Where are the property hotspots in Kuching at the moment for investors looking for a lucrative ROI? Charles Liew: The best areas right now, in my view, would be up-and-coming areas towards the outskirt of Kuching city. So we are looking at places like Samarahan, though really the trend towards Samarahan started perhaps a decade ago – but, it is still developing so there are still opportunities there. Some may look at that and say, Samarahan is a thing of the past, but if you make www.PropertyHunter.com.my

37

years old to avoid spending bigger renovation fees. As these renovations will eat into your potential returns. But, if you have some good extra millions lying around, buying land would still be the best investment that you can make in Kuching. If not, hey, a landed terrace house will give you a pretty good, comfortable return by the time you retire.

In your opinion, what are the things that make Kuching a great property hotspot?

Charles Liew:I believe Kuching is a decent property spot. Kuching has a few things going for it which would make it investable. First and foremost, Kuching a trip there right now you would know

Do you have any advice for real estate

it is good for another few decades of

investors who are looking to invest in

development.

Kuching?

Then there are areas like Isthmus and

Charles Liew: Understand the city as

Matang, which have been widely talked

a whole and all the dynamics at play

about already. I am always more careful

before you invest.

the moment more people start to see the potential though, so please always undertake your own due diligence before jumping head first into an investment, especially in areas you are not familiar

Kuching is a unique city, without a real CBD to talk about. Real estate, as such, is not concentrated in one area, but rather spread out. As usual, do what you would

with.

with any real estate investment, be it in

Colin Chong: There are quite a number

would want to research and ask around

of areas where one can invest. For

in Kuching about the various developers.

Kuching or elsewhere. For example, you

investors looking to invest in residential properties with more budgets, buying properties in areas like Jalan Song, Jalan Kempas, BDC, Stutong, Green Heights and Kenny Hill will still be a good buy as these are very established and well

Colin Chong: Invest in areas and locations that are well established and areas that have good visible infrastructure. Also look if the area is well planned in terms of their developments.

sought-after areas.

For new investors just starting out,

For more price conscious buyers, the

areas for those who want to earn rental

houses along the Samarahan road is

incomes, but most importantly choose

a good place to invest as this is the

condominiums or apartments that is

area that has a lot of well-planned

desired by the mass market to buy,

developments and are generally

meaning, go for apartments or condos

a popular area among younger

that are priced in the range of between

generations. Areas in Stapok are also

RM400, 000 – RM450, 000 at the current

gaining momentum as it is considered

market. For condominiums, don’t buy too

one of the areas that is very centralized

far away from well-established areas.

and connected and will have better connectivity in the very near future.

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buy condos in already well-established

It would be best to buy these landed properties that is not older than 25

is the capital city of Sarawak, so in terms of business activities, even though places like Bintulu and Miri are picking up, Kuching would still be the focal point for many businesses looking to gain a foothold in the State.

Kuching also has a burgeoning reputation of being a good retirement city for foreigners, and in recent years we have indeed seen with our own eyes an increase as far as that is concerned.

Colin Chong: Kuching is known to be a place where it is safe and peaceful to work and live. Throughout the history of Kuching, the property market has experienced steady growth. For investors looking for a safe and stable investment portfolio, Kuching will be a great spot to invest in.

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PROPERTY SHOWCASE

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PROPERTY SHOWCASE

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PROPERTY SHOWCASE

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NEWS

Kota Kinabalu Voted as One of the Best Resort Destinations in Asia Pacific

news, conferences, event and incentives. This puts Kota Kinabalu on the same level as Bali and Phuket, according to the results, as reported in The Borneo Post.

1

The city of Kota Kinabalu has been voted one of the best resort destinations by readers of CEI Asia, a publication for tourism and travel

The CEI’s annual industry survey, the CEI Readers’ Choice Awards, has been

running for 15 years and sets the benchmark to showcase Asia Pacific’s best in business events.

According to the CEI website, travel industry heavyweights Singapore and Hong Kong have retained their positions as premier MICE destinations, competing for the top spot in numerous categories.

New nominations from Hainan, the Philippines and Vietnam have made their way into the top three.

This year, the CEI Asia readers’ survey also added new categories, bringing in wins for airlines and newly-opened venues.

A Strategic Partnership Between MFR Capital and Hatten Group MFR Capital, an established Investment and Asset Management company, incorporated in Malaysia, proudly announce its strategic investment into Harbour City Resort, a latest project launched by largest developer in Melaka’s City Centre, Hatten Group.

MFR Capital with its group of companies, has over 40 years of investment experience in the real estate market, with numerous partnerships with wellknown developers across Asia and the UK market. This latest investment sparks MFR Capital‘s intention to aggressively pursue further success through property investment in Malaysia.

MFR’s CEO Mr Shawn Er expressed “Malaysia still has lots of potential for growth. The country is located strategically in the middle of the One Belt One Road route and it is one of the emerging economies of growth among the Asean community.

We foresee many investment opportunities and untapped resources which MFR can venture in the next ten years or more.”

EziFund Director Mr Geoffrey Tan shared that ‘Malaysia offers one of the most conducive environment for foreign investors through Malaysia My 2nd Home (MM2H) scheme. Locally, there are many upcoming developments which Ezifund has scouted. But Melaka draws the most interest at the moment, as the emerging city of historical flamboyance, shows great potential of growth within its city centre in the recent years.’

SB

WM

tourism and entertainment landscape, Harbour City is a self-sustaining, fully incorporated ‘city of amusement’ which infuses three vibrant elements – Retail, Theme Park and Hotels.

Hatten Group, well known for its transformation of Melaka, is one of the most recognized developers in Malaysia.

MFR Capital’s global investments includes the mining of Cubecoin and renting of rigs to service other Cubecoin miners with teams of experts and technical staff hailing from all over the world such as Australia, Finland, Singapore, United States, and Hong Kong.

MFR Capital will bulk purchase units within Harbour City Resorts which amounts to Gross value up to RM25 million. Harbour City Resort Suites is within the iconic Harbour City. A gamechanger in Melaka’s luxury,

2

Cuepacs Wants Government to Review Income Calculation for Housing Loan The Congress of Unions of Employees in

allowances as a part of the salary in

the Public and Civil Services (Cuepacs)

calculating the income for a housing

wants the government to review the

loan, whether through the government

policy of income calculation for a

or a bank loan.

SB

housing loan to simplify and qualify civil servants to buy a house, as reported in

“This is because, today, only the basic

TheEdgeProperty.com.my.

salary is taken into account in calculating the income for a housing loan. It will

Its president Datuk Azih Muda said

cause many civil servants to be unable

this includes taking into account fixed

to afford a house.”

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3 1.

2.

3.

One of the hotspots in KK; Shangri-La’s Tanjung Aru Resort and Spa Partnership between MFR Capital and Hatten Group CUEPACS

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HOT TOPIC

THE BEST ISLAMIC HOME LOANS IN MALAYSIA Are you looking to purchase a property? Why not broaden your financing options by considering Islamic home loans? Here, we’ve rounded up the advantages, and the best Islamic home loans in Malaysia that could suit you.

By Fara Joifin

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How Does Islamic Home Financing Work?

An Islamic home loan must first and foremost ensure that it is Shariah compliant. This means that there are no interest-based (riba) transactions, speculation (gharar) and there are no haram (unlawful) transactions involved. The essential key to Islamic finance is also the notion that money itself has no intrinsic value, so money is not allowed to create more money.

Therefore, Islamic banks must provide services or products in order for them to earn profits.

With Islamic home financing, banks usually provide either buy and sell (Murabahah) or leasing services (Ijarah). With the Murabahah concept, you choose a property and through an Islamic home financing, you and the bank will then enter into a contract where the bank buys the property for you. The bank will then re-sell the property to you at a higher price in the form of instalments over a fixed period of time.

As for the Ijarah concept, it is based on a transfer of property ownership at the end of leasing. The bank will buy the property for you, and you will buy back the property by making instalment payments. This concept allows you to buy out a property from the bank while paying for “rent”.

Advantages of Islamic Home Financing •

Customers receive Ibra (rebate) from some Islamic banks when you make early settlement on your home financing.

•

Under Budget 2016, all Islamic home financing will receive 20% off stamp duty exemption as part of the government’s effort to boost Islamic financing.

Some of the best Islamic Home Financing Loans in Malaysia Maybank Islamic Commodity Murabahah Home Financing-i This is a cost + profit (Murabahah) loan, which translates to a “buy and sell” contract between the bank and the customer. A Shariah-compliant commodity will be identified (such as crude palm oil) and it will be used as the underlying asset for the sale and purchase transaction between the customer and the bank. This underlying asset is meant to raise funds to finance the property.

REQUIREMENTS Minimum income : RM24,000 annually Age : 21 years old and above Financing tenure : 30 years or age 60 (whichever comes first) / 35 years or age 70 for professionals and graduates.

This loan offers financing eligibility of up to 70% of your gross income (subject to the bank’s approval). You can choose from fixed, tiered or variable profit rate with this loan, and the effective profit rate will be determined by Maybank upon the approval of the loan. There is no locked in period penalty for this loan and customers will be granted Ibra (rebate) for early loan settlement. This loan is suitable for both completed or under construction properties.

Alliance Islamic Bank i-Wish Home Financing Based on the concept of deferred payment sale (Bai Bithaman Ajil) this is another option for those looking for Shariah-compliant home financing.

This loan is suitable for completed and under construction properties as well as for those looking to refinance their property. The profit rate is up to the BR rate of +0.55% (the current base rate for Alliance bank is 3.97%).

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HOT TOPIC

REQUIREMENTS Minimum income : RM24,000 annually Age : 21 years old and above Financing tenure : 35 years or age 75 (whichever comes first).

So as of now, the profit rate for this loan would be 3 You can also opt to take Takaful coverage with this loan, so you can have peace of mind without worrying about burdening your family or loved ones with debt should anything happen to you during the loan tenure. You are also eligible for Ibra for an early loan settlement, so it pays to settle your loan early.

CIMB Islamic Ijarah Property Financing-i Based on the Ijarah Muntahiyah Bittamik concept, this loan offers transfer of property ownership from bank to customer. At the end of the lease, through paying a nominal amount to the bank throughout the loan tenure, the ownership of the property will then be transferred from the bank to the customer.

REQUIREMENTS Minimum income : RM24,000 annually Age : 18 years old and above Financing tenure : 35 years or age 70 (whichever comes first).

HSBC Amanah Home Smart-i

This loan offers a high margin of financing, however, the effective

Based on the diminishing Musyarakah concept, this means that

profit rate is not clearly stated. That being said, it is capped at

the bank and the customer will be in a partnership to buy a

a competitive profit rate of 10.75% per annum which is quite

property. The bank’s share of the property will then diminish

high compared to others in the market. The exact rate will be

over time during the loan tenure while the customer’s share

determined by the bank upon the approval of the loan. The

increases from the result of the monthly payments made to the

downside of this loan is that it is limited to the financing of

bank.

completed residential or business properties only.

The profit rate charged for this loan per annum is BR+1.10%.

As a friendly reminder, it is recommended that your debt to

The current base rate for HSBC is 3.75% so the effective

income ratio does not exceed 40% of your gross monthly

financing rate per annum would be 4.85%. It is important to take

income. To calculate your debt to income ratio:

note that the monthly payment and total amount to be paid will vary if there are any changes made to the BR. This loan also has REQUIREMENTS

Monthly loan repayments __________________________________ Net monthly income

X 100

Minimum income : RM24,000 annually Age :18 years old and above

Does any of these Islamic Home Loans suit your needs? Then

Financing tenure : 35 years or age 65 (whichever comes

get in touch with the respective banks to find out more.

first). a monthly service fee of RM10 plus 6% throughout the tenure of the loan. Financing margin is up to 90% of the current market value of the property but this is subject to the bank’s approval.

Customers also have the option to take up the Takaful Reducing Term Cover for Home Financing to protect their families from the burden of home financing should anything unexpected were to happen.

About Fara Joifin Fara is a Content Writer at CompareHero.my. She gets excited when she scores a good deal and enjoys finding ways to save money. She also has an obsession with the Northern Lights.

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INTERVIEW

Recipe for Success If there’s a recipe for success in property investment, it starts with picking the right ingredients and the right people to give it to you. By combining their respective skills, three friends, have prepared us with a sandwiched book on how to minimise risk while maximising on investment returns from the perspectives of Bank, Law and Tax. Words by Property Hunter Photos by All4One Venue by Signature Kitchen

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The BLT Boys, from left to right: Miichael Yeoh, Chris Tan and Richard Oon

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Property Hunter had the gastronomic pleasure of interviewing Miichael Yeoh (Banker), Chris Tan (Lawyer) and Richard Oon (Taxman). These sandwich connoisseurs -- and property experts in their respective fields -- were put to the amusing task of making their own BLT sandwiches while discussing about their new book, ‘BLT Property Investment’.

Hello boys, can you please tell us how the idea for this book came about?

MY: We were having sandwiches and talking about work at Subway one day and things just started to link-up. That was the moment BLT was born.

RO: What Miichael means is that we realised from our interactions with clients that the three elements of bank, law and tax were interconnected in a property investment decision. There is an apparent trade-off among the “BLT” elements for a property investor and the balancing-act between the three elements which are unique to each property investor.

Ok, jokes aside, can you explain, in CT: Also, we all became friends naturally as

MY: Yea, I have known Richard for a very

brief what the book is about?

we were speakers in the circuit pertaining

long time and we actually met during a

CT: The book seeks to assist aspiring

to real estate. It started by calling each

business meeting. And I think I met Chris

property investors how to systematically

other about professional references and

three years ago, also in one of Property

plan out their investments through

as Richard said, we realised that the

Hunter’s expos in Tawau. I remember, our

fundamental considerations of BLT and

fundamental issues, bank, law and tax were

first outing together was getting a foot

how to balance investment decisions.

all interconnected with each other. So, the

massage near the hotel we were staying.

Ultimately it’s about profiling and profiting

book basically came about from friendship.

from your risk.

CT: That’s right, Michael and I met for the

How long have the three of you

first time, a few years ago in an event by

RO: We put the contents of the book

known each other and how did a

Property Hunter. As for Richard, we kept

together based on the common issues

lawyer, banker and tax man meet?

bumping into each other at events and

faced by a potential property investor

RO: Gosh, from how the three of us click

eventually started talking about real estate

when planning to buy a property. Many

so well together, it would seem that we

from different perspectives. And because we

investors, especially the newer ones, invest

have known each other since childhood!

were all from Penang, our bond eventually

in a property without any clear objectives

But seriously, I have known Miichael for

strengthened.

and strategies in mind. That is why we

more than 10 years now, I think, since we

introduced the BLT Property Investment

were involved in a business organisation

It sounds like the start of a joke,

Model which in our book is called ‘OPRIME’

together. On the other hand, I first met

doesn’t it? One day, a lawyer, a

which is an acronym for Objective-Plan-

Chris a few years back during a property

banker and a tax man meet at a

Research-Invest-Manage-Exit. So, the book

event organised by Property Hunter, where

bar……

serves to explain all the elements of “BLT”

Miichael was there as well. The three of us

CT: Guess what, a sandwich bar.

that a property investor has to know and

are regularly invited by Property Hunter as

we leave it to the reader to map out his

speakers for your events, so in a way, we

RO: …and the bartender looks up and says,

options and decide for himself where to

really must thank you for bringing the BLT

“Is this some kind of a joke?”

strike a balance among the three elements.

team together!

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What are your favourite

MY: I think it took us about three to

sandwiches?

four months but the last month was

CT: The BLT.

very hard for us to meet the deadline.

Who’s the culprit that did that?

It’s not easy getting the three of us

CT: Me! I take full responsibility.

MY: Hmm…actually, I like all kinds of

together as we each have our own

sandwich. I’m a bread person. I could

businesses to run. But we tried to make

So do you think that the book

survive on bread alone.

it a point to have regular meetings,

has already been perfected? Or is

be it in Penang or Kuala Lumpur and

there still room for improvement

RO: Err, isn’t it obvious? It’s a BLT

mostly on Sundays. We hadn’t even

or for more expansions to the

sandwich for me!

seen the final printout of the book

details?

until the night before the launch. It

CT: There is always room for

What was the basic premise of

was exactly on the 16th of January. I

improvement as our value tends

coming up with the investment

even remember Chris having to camp

to change from time to time by

model theory and how did you

all day at the designer’s office just to

accumulated experiences. Besides,

expand the idea and figure

get the book done. We came a long

there are always constant changes

out the formulas? Was it easy

way from when we started to put our

even in the bank, law and tax areas.

connecting the dots?

thoughts on paper.

CT: Initially it was about calling to cross reference but we then

RO: The idea was first toyed with,

realised that we were all standing at

probably in late 2014, but as Miichael

contrasting viewpoints. If you pay

mentioned, due to our busy work

less tax, you won’t get a higher loan

schedules, not much was really drafted

and everything in the middle is about

in the first half of 2015. Then, during

legal compliance. Once we agreed to

a public event one day, and much to

disagree and established that everyone

the other two’s surprise, one of us

has a risk profile, connecting the dots

announced to the audience, that we

was a lot easier.

would be launching the BLT book in early 2016! That really gave us the

RO: We realised that we rely on each

push that we needed and the

other for input when we advise our

manuscript, book design

clients on property investment issues.

and layout was

I, for one, will look at a client’s plan

produced

to invest in a property from a tax perspective, but at the same time, be mindful that how I try to optimise the tax efficiency of a property investment for a client may not work well from the financing and legal [ownership structure] angles for the client. We communicated a lot with each other to ensure that the client’s major objectives are achieved. And after a few cases, we realised that there are certain standard processes that we had to go through to arrive at the optimum structure for each client. So it was just a matter of putting our thoughts on paper, refining it and the BLT Property Investment book was born!

How long did it take you guys to complete the book?

CT: From planning to printing, about less than six months.

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in a matter of three months!

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RO: So far, we received a lot of positive

in the areas of bank, law and tax. This

investment journey. One mistake can

feedback from readers of the book. We

book was put together based on the

cost them a lot of money.

also received several suggestions on

experience of qualified professionals

how to improve the book further, which

who have many years of practical

CT: To sum it up, if you are serious

we will evaluate and figure out how to

experience in our respective fields. I think

about property investment, this should

best incorporate those suggestions in

this justifies why people should invest

be your bible.

the book. Also, there are some recent

RM50 to buy the book.

developments in the property sector that we are eager to share our thoughts

MY: Many people are still interested

on so these will be incorporated in the

in property investment. The current

upcoming edition of the book.

economy is nothing to shout about but people still invest. We came up with the

Lastly, tell us, why should people

idea as many property investors are

read this book?

still are not familiar with the subject

RO: Many rely on ‘experts’ among their

matter. Our mission is to steer them

circle of friends for opinions and advice

towards the right path to take in their

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EXCLUSIVE REPORT

CYBERJAYA A CITY OF ENDLESS POTENTIAL Cyberjaya is always a hot topic among property investors. With many commercial and residential developments that have arisen, it has made the city an attractive choice for local and foreign businesses to live, work and play.

Initially focused on ICT, the city has evolved into a global tech hub (GTH) - which has driven the city’s economic growth.

With wide networks that have been established in East Malaysia, Property Hunter sees the importance of highlighting the thriving city into a special issue dedicated to this interesting city.

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EXCLUSIVE REPORT

CYBERJAYA A globally connected city of the future Equipped with modern and high-tech facilities, Cyberjaya is the city of the future with a twist. While other cities are congested with sky-high buildings, Cyberjaya’s state-of-the-art developments are supplemented with a host of recreational facilities.

BACKGROUND

WALK DOWN MEMORY LANE

To complement the newly launched Malaysia

Cyberjaya was a palm oil plantation back in the mid-nineties. Malaysia had an

Multimedia Super Corridor (MSC-Malaysia)

abundance of palm oil plantations at that time, but what they did not have

in 1997, the Malaysian Government put

was a city designed specifically to facilitate the IT and hi-tech industry.

forward a plan to build a new Information Communication

Technology

(ICT)

city.

Thus, Cyberjaya was hatched up as a vital ingredient to the country’s policies and ideals of looking towards ICT as an engine of growth for the future economy.

Cyberjaya started to emerge from the jungle in 1997. The whole enterprise was founded in the attempt to move the Malaysian economy away from agriculture and towards manufacturing and tech industries.

Cyberjaya has changed melodramatically in just the last 3 or 4 years from what was pretty much a wasteland strewn with offices and the (very)

Measuring 7,000 acres, Cyberjaya has been transformed into an intelligent city with world-class standards and facilities, making

occasional retailer, to the beginnings of a real city. And judging from the amount of construction in progress right now, the township will be a very different place in another 5 years from now. (Source: http://www.cyberjayalife.

it the country’s first and premier ICT city.

info/2013/12/history-of-cyberjaya)

Calling Malaysia a negara hebat (great

OVERVIEW

nation), the chief US diplomat highlighted

As the principal Developer of Cyberjaya, Setia Haruman was commended

the

with the role to plan, design and prepare the primary infrastructure for the

country’s

success

in

generating

entrepreneurs in a multicultural setting, and

Cyberjaya. The freehold land entailing four main zones known as Enterprise,

mentioned Cyberjaya as among its success

Commercial, Institutional and Residential. Each zone is fully equipped with

stories. (Source: The Star Online, Oct 12 2013).

state-of-the-art infrastructure which includes a host of intelligent network.

Setia Haruman is also involved in the development of commercial and residential projects in addition to marketing and selling land parcels to investors and subdevelopers to design and build their own development based on a permitted planning guideline. Furthermore, Setia Haruman offers assistance to MSC-status companies in obtaining the land rights and approvals for sub-division and building plans.

Today, Setia Haruman is credited for the development of Cyberjaya into an intelligent city of world-class standards and a variety of facilities amidst rich natural surroundings.

*Unless stated otherwise, the numbers above are accumulative figures and subject to change

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THE CURRENT WAVE Say hello to the innovative creative thinkers of Cyberjaya. Made up of the tech community, students and residents, the city has been developing progressively and is projected to reach a population of 100,000 by the end of 2016 (there are currently roughly about 86,000 people

A number of buildings in Cyberjaya have been accredited with LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) and/or Green Building Index (GBI) certification. They are Wisma Shell (Malaysia’s first LEED Gold Building), CX5 Data Centre, Rimba Digital – Cyberjaya3 Data Centre, and CJ1 Data Centre. The upcoming Cyberjaya Mosque has also been awarded a Green Building Index – Platinum Rating.

residing in Cyberjaya). With the presence of many multi-national companies and private universities in the township, many expats have also been attracted to set up home in Cyberjaya. A vibrant community, it’s where creative and brilliant-minded people meet

Not only does sunshine have the power to make people feel happy, it also has the potential to power up our devices, buildings, and more.

In Cyberjaya, where sunlight is plentiful all year round, solar power is increasingly being used as an alternative energy source, thus reducing

and collaborate.

the city’s dependence on fossil fuels.

Intelligent, sustainable building design

So far, solar panels have been installed on five bus shelters, two Green

is fast making inroads in Cyberjaya. New residential and commercial buildings are being developed with renewable energy and water conservation in mind - while existing buildings are being retrofit to reduce power and resource consumption.

Nomad Kiosks, and on several rooftops, including the new Cyberjaya Community Recycling Collection Centre (CCRCC). The energy stored in the solar-powered bus shelters is turned into electricity at night, lighting up the bus stand. In the future, Cyberjaya’s car park shelters will also run off solar energy. Another interesting solar-powered project is the upcoming Cyberjaya Mosque, which may be the world’s first mosque equipped with a Building-Integrated Photovoltaic (BIPV) System to harvest energy from the sun.

As of June 2015, there are plenty of landed and high rise residential developments being offered for residential stay. High rise residential and integrated developments including the likes of Shaftsbury Square, D’Pulze, Serin Residency, The Place, D’Melor, Domain, etc. and landed housing include Symphony Hills, Garden Residence, Summer Glades and Mirage by the Lake. With the many upcoming developments, there will be at least an additional 10,000 residential units in the next two years.

(Source: www.cyberjayamalaysia.com.my)

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EXCLUSIVE REPORT

THE YET TO COME

all of them targeting the middle-income market. “Not only

Cyberjaya is moving up the value chain by the day. As the city

with more than 300 MNC status companies, plus world-class

gears towards 2020, residents and dwellers will see a rise in high impact companies, research and development (R&D) companies and backend financial services, to name a few.

universities and a population of about 24,000 students in total”, he added.

Deemed the “Smart City”, Cyberjaya is poised to have the

Within the next 5 years, one can expect a more robust

following attributes:

growth for Cyberjaya with all of these projects coming into place.

•

Strategic location within proximity of Klang Valley locations

•

Excellent connectivity with expressways and rail links supported by feeder bus services

Cyberjaya will see a new 4.86-hectare government hospital

•

Superior IT infrastructure and communications backbone supported by extensive fiber optics backbone

be built in addition to Pasir Gudang, Kemaman, Pendang and

•

Safe living and working environment with security features including gated and guarded projects and CCTVs

•

Ecological environment, allocation for greenery and public facilities and amenities is double that of the average townships

•

Well-planned and low density ecosystem, with no transportation bottlenecks, including that for public transport.

in its township by 2018. This is one of the 5 new hospitals to Maran.

To support the city’s new vision and growth plans, a few development projects have been proposed, one of which is the development of a city centre that will create a focal point for Cyberjaya and its settings within a 30–50 km radius.

Setia Haruman is dedicated to further build Cyberjaya into

Easily accessible and pedestrian friendly, the project, with a

Malaysia’s leading hub for high income economy; creating

Gross Development Value (GDV) of RM9 billion, is now at its

a clean, green and lush ecosystem that is facilitative and

evaluation stage. The project will be developed in phases and

conducive to businesses to drive economic activities.

is expected to be fully completed within 15 years.

Cyberjaya will become the centre of excellence for knowledge

The government has already approved an efficient public

and highly-skilled manpower, attracting and maintaining the

transport system. An MRT station, or also known as the MRT

world’s leading multinational corporations (MNCs) and their

II Project, will serve residents through these areas; Sungai

knowledge workers. The smart city will also be a catalyst for

Buloh – Serdang – Cybjeraya – Putrajaya, with Cyberjaya and

MNCs and Malaysian corporations, nurturing start-ups, SMEs

Putrajaya being one of the main stations.

and “technopreneurs” to create value-added activities to move up the value chain. Not to mention the collaboration with Universities, private institutions and skills development centres to educate and prepare knowledge workers.

According to Ishmael Ho, Director of HSC Research, there are more than 30 developers in Cyberjaya and all the big players are there, like SP Setia, Mah Sing, OSK, UEM and MCT;

To support the city’s new vision and growth plans, a few development projects have been proposed, one of which is the development of a city centre that will create a focal point for Cyberjaya and its settings within a 30–50 km radius.

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does Cyberjaya have freehold status, it is also home to MSC,

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GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY HUB, YOUR FUTURE BLUEPRINT Nine key technology sectors have been identified under the Global Tech Hub Blueprint. They are:

HIGHLIGHTS OF CYBERJAYA

Education Institutions (6 Universities/Colleges as of Apr 2016) Top 4 Universities • Multimedia University • Limkokwing University of Creative Technology • Cyberjaya University College of Medical Sciences • University Islam Malaysia

Information Security

Creative Content

Kirkby College ELC International School Smart School (Cyberjaya Primary & Secondary)

Cloud Computering

Big Data Analytic

Secondary Smart Boarding School – Seri Puteri Girls

Current Developments (projects that are already completed) Residential

Green Technology

Cyberia Crescent 1 by MK Land Mirage By The Lake by OSK Garden Residence by Mah Sing

Biotechnology Mixed Dev.

Shaftbury Square by Ikhasas group (P) D’Pulze by D’Pulze Ventures Neo Cyber by EMKAY

Wearable Technologies

Smart Grid Technology

Commercial Dev.

Glomac Cyberjaya by Glomac CBD Perdana by Setia Haruman Galleria by PPC JV Glomac

According to Enoch Khoo, Vice President of Property Hub Sdn Bhd and Managing Director of ENK Ventures Sdn Bhd, he believes that Cyberjaya is a booming city. With the high speed rail from Singapore to Kuala Lumpur, it will easily allow IT specialists to commute to and from Cyberjaya, the knowledge centre of Malaysia.

“IT will be the next wave of business.

Cyberjaya plays a very important role in the nation for the tech industry and the knowledge based people would have to congregate there”, he explained.

Future Developments Lake Point by Yan Jian group Lake Front by MCT

Residential

Verdi Eco-dominium @ Symphony Hills by UEM Ceria Residences by Setia Haruman Setia Eco Glades by SP Setia Third Avenue by Tee Resources

Mixed Dev.

Sky Park by MCT Lexicon by Prima Avenue CyberSquare by Binastra

Commercial Dev.

Radius by EMKAY Tamarind Square by Tujuan Gemilang Roppongi by BND Global

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PROPERTY SHOWCASE

Tamarind Square – Where Cyberjaya Connects

T

amarind Square is a unique retail and office development.

It is the reinvention of the traditional Malaysian shop-office, the modern-day mall, and the Asian village square. Tamarind Square is designed to overcome the problems of traditional shop-office developments and bring in all the benefits of a shopping mall. The concept is to have people meet each other and connect. It’s a sense of community, belonging and harmony.

The project features three main components – 30 four and five-storey semidetached shop offices, 72 three-storey garden shop offices and 2 blocks of SOFO with a total of 674 units.

The semi-detached shop offices come with six-metre high ceilings for both the ground and podium levels.

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The lower two levels can be accessed from the main road, while the top two levels can be reached from the podium road. Highlights include rooftop gardens which are great for al fresco dining and beautifully landscaped secret gardens tucked in between each semi-detached unit that acts as extension areas for outdoor cafes which will be connected by covered verandas.

The three-storey garden shop offices are arranged around gardens spanning approximately one acre.

All the shops have dual frontage and six-metre high ceilings, allowing for mezzanine space. The North Court garden will feature 7 tree houses of about 300sq ft each that can be used as a small shop, meeting room or place to hang out.

Tamarind Square’s prized location, surrounded by more than 19 residential developments and fronting a mall and hotel makes it the latest green gem to Sales Person Contact Email Website

emerge right in the heart of Cyberjaya.

: Alex Chong : 03 – 7728 0300 or 012 – 264 1496 : alex@tujuangemilang.com.my : www.tamarindsq.com

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PROPERTY SHOWCASE

Eclipse Residence @ Pan’gaea

The Oasis Of Cyberjaya - Where Work, Play And Thrive Are Met In One Place

C

yberjaya – a well-designed smart city with massive institutional and business developments in the recent years. Home to over 500 multinational companies such as HSBC, HP, DELL and Shell. Cyberjaya is strategically connected to major expressways which include Maju Expressway (MEX), Elite Highway, Lebuhraya Damanasara Puchong (LDP) and South Klang Valley Expressway (SKVE). Along with the upcoming MRT line; Sungai Buloh-Serdang-Putrajaya line with two main stops in this smart city, Cyberjaya has ultimately created more alternatives and conveniences in travelling in-and-out of the city.

Contributing to the growth and fulfilling the prospect as the nation’s premier technology hub, OSK Property has also taken the opportunity to play its part in this township. Hailed as Pan’gaea, the development envisions a “world in one place” concept, featuring an integrated

Loft Suite

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master development with service apartments, lifestyle retail and office suites. Part of this multipleaward winning development, OSK Property presents its latest offering; Eclipse Residence, a selfsustained integrated development which offers furnished service apartments with modern suites ranging from 450 to 990 sq.ft.

Equipped with unique recreational facilities such as beach-themed and infinity pools, gymnasium, sauna, Jacuzzi and squash court, Eclipse Residence ensures the utmost well-being of its residence be it at home.

Eclipse Residence is poised to be a great place to live in and to invest as the city continues to grow and attract talents into the township. For a limited time only, Eclipse Residence now comes with a unique investment plan for you which includes 0% down-payment, 10% rebate, 10% Bumi discount, double income potential scheme and much more.

Contact Email Website

Eclipse Residence Facade

: 03-8318 6366 / 019-222 7138 : pangaea@oskp.com.my : www.oskproperty.com.my

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EXCLUSIVE REPORT

COMPARISON OF PROPERTY PRICES

*Prices are subject to change according to the landlord.

*Prices vary between different real estate agents (Sources: www.mudah.my, www.iproperty.com.my)

10 REASONS WHY CYBERJAYA IS A GOOD PLACE TO INVEST #1 CLEAN HUB Living conveniently near the city and being one with nature is probably ideal for all of us. In Cyberjaya, one will know that the city has a relatively low carbon emission, with most homes developed in low density areas. Furthermore, at least 50% of green open space are reserved.

#2 SAFE CITY Cyberjaya is generally safe with very low crime rate. Most housing areas are gated. Plenty of new apartments are built with safety in mind. There are CCTVs installed around the city and there is a big police station dedicated to serve the whole area of Cyberjaya. There’s also a fire station so if there’s any means of emergency, they’re sure to arrive very quickly.

#2 CREATIVE INPUT Cyberjaya is known as the capital of creativity. Why you might ask? With 8 universities within the city to choose from, it would be an ideal place for the younger generation to explore their creative side.

#4 EXCELLENT INFRASTRUCTURE Cyberjaya is a city built from scratch so most of the infrastructure is well planned ahead of its time. Most residential areas are fibre optics ready and able to support future broadband services. A lot of multinational companies such as Dell, HP, DHL, Huawei and Tech Mahindra have operations in Cyberjaya due to reliable infrastructure and support from the government.

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#5 CENTRALISED AND CONVENIENT It is the centralised hub between Kuala Lumpur city and emerging urban south towns such as Sepang, Bangi and Dengkil; which are now conveniently linked with the causeway expressways.

#6 GOOD CATCHMENT Running a shop lot in Cyberjaya would mean that one would be surrounded with a population of 450,000 catchment market. What’s more attractive is that most surrounding towns are mature and craving for new points of interest or activity.

#7 CAUSEWAY LINKS Cyberjaya is conveniently linked by 4 cardinal points of the compass which includes major highways such as Maju Expressway (MEX), Kuala Lumpur-Putrajaya Expressway (KLPE), KL-KLIA dedicated Expressway, Middle Ring Road (MRR2), Lebuhraya Shah Alam (KESAS) and South Klang Valley Expressway (SKVE).

#8 GREENERY AND LAKE Cyberview, which manages Cyberjaya, promises to maintain the greenery of Cyberjaya. The beautiful Putrajaya Lake which separates the two cities is a sight for sore eyes. There’s always a spot for you to do your picnic while enjoying the scenic view of the lake. As cities grow, people will need a place to be closer with nature and Cyberjaya can offer this right now.

#9 GROWING EXPAT COMMUNITIES Thanks to the multinational companies and international universities such as Lim Kok Wing and Multimedia University (MMU), Cyberjaya has a growing number of expat communities. Many expats from Europe and North America are familiar with the surroundings of Cyberjaya so it has become their preferred choice to live and work. That means investors will have better chances to get good price to rent out their houses or apartments.

#10 FUTURE KL-SINGAPORE BULLET TRAIN STOP AND MRT STATIONS The KL-Singapore bullet train is currently a hype and many people are hoping that it will become a reality. Cyberjaya and Putrajaya will become one of the major stops between KL and Singapore. The new station will be built next to Putrajaya and Cyberjaya KLIA Transit station. Eventually, the station will also be integrated with MRT. There will be two MRT stations built in Cyberjaya – Cyberjaya North and Cyberjaya South. The construction of the high-speed railway is expected to commence in 2017, with the completion in 2022.

(Source: www.cyberjayacity.com, www.investcyberjaya.com) www.PropertyHunter.com.my

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EXCLUSIVE REPORT

CYBERJAYA AS A WHOLE

*Source as of 2014: www.investcyberjaya.com, Setia Haruman)

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This Exclusive Report is brought to you by

Log-on to www.PropertyHunter.com.my/luxury for more exclusive reports and news on property

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75

DRIVE

One in a Million

Mazda Celebrates its One-Millionth Mazda MX-5 On April 22, 2016, Mazda Motor Corporation has reached production of one million units of the iconic Mazda MX-5 Miata (Mazda Roadster in Japan). The milestone figure was achieved over 27 years, with mass-production of the MX-5 starting at Ujina Plant No. 1 in Hiroshima in April 1989.

Photos by Mazda Malaysia

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77

DRIVE

As a way of expressing thanks to MX-5 fans and owners, the One-Millionth MX-5 is being displayed at fan events in Japan and around the world. The tour began on May 3rd at the Hiroshima Flower Festival where the car participated in the Flower Parade and will end by making stops around the US before its final destination at the “Miatas at Mazda Raceway” event in October.

The MX-5 is a symbol of Mazda’s carmaking philosophy and tireless pursuit of driving pleasure. Since its debut in

L

1989, the model has consistently offered driving fun that can only be experienced

ightweight sports cars first

the market potential of a lightweight

appeared in the years following

sports car. To test this, a full-scale plastic

the Second World War, but it

body prototype was made from one of

wasn’t until the 1960s that small,

the design proposals and brought to the

affordable and fun roadsters reached the

US in April 1987. Members of the public

height of their popularity. The lightweight

with an interest in cars were invited to

sports car allowed average Europeans to

preview the design. It was met with very

enjoy exhilarating driving on a daily basis.

positive reviews and since the US is the

But by the early 1980s, with the introduction of much stricter safety and emissions regulations due to demands

world’s largest automobile market, this result had a strong influence on the decision makers at Mazda.

for improved safety, the lightweight

“From the first generation through to

sports car segment was going extinct.

today’s fourth-generation model, the

Mazda’s engineers then conceived a

reason we have been able to continue

dream for a modern compact two-seater.

selling the MX-5 all these years is due

One engineer, who would go on to lead

to the strong support of fans around

the development of the first generation

the world,” said Masamichi Kogai,

Mazda Miata MX-5, was convinced that

representative director, president and

Mazda needed a unique product to help

CEO, Mazda Corporation. “Mazda was

it stand out from the other Japanese

founded in Hiroshima 96 years ago, and

brands, and passionately appealed

as we move toward our centennial year

to management to build a lightweight

we will continue offering customers the

roadster.

joy of driving with this model, which has

Achieving the required safety performance while keeping vehicle weight down was just as challenging for the MX-5’s developers. Computer analysis, which had been nonexistent in the 1970s, played a key role in the revival of the lightweight sports car. By fully utilizing the latest computer analysis technologies, the team managed to build a light and rigid body which met modern safety requirements.

Even at this stage, there were still doubts that the MX-5 would ever reach production. Some people still questioned

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become a symbol of our brand.”

in a lightweight sports car and won the admiration of people from various countries, cultures and age groups. The MX-5 has won over 200 awards from around the globe to its name and has held the Guinness World Record for the bestselling open-top two-seater sports car for many years. With the achievement of one million units of production, Mazda will now attempt to break its own record.

The latest version of Mazda’s iconic roadster was born from the belief that “Only a very few sports cars possess the enduring spirit seen in the MX-5.”

It is this passion that makes Mazda’s MX-5 roadster the luckiest car on Earth. www.mazda.com

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FURNISH

HOW TO STYLE YOUR HOME LIKE THE SWEDES

JOY TIP #1 Use Varying Textures The trick is to keep them within the same tonal family.

If you mix too many textures and materials, the result will look too excessive.

FINNLAND 3 SEATER

GIBSON STANDING LAMP

BLACK & WHITE PICTURE

ASLOG COFFEE TABLE

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JOY TIP #2 Choose A Theme Choose a design theme that you love and stick to it so that the room looks cohesive.

Here, there are different shades of neutrals with added greenery that exist harmoniously together.

KARMA 3 SEATER

BLUE PAINTING KRUKKE STOOL

POTTED PLANT PLYWOOD COFFEE TABLE Property Hunter has teamed up with Joy Design Studio, a Malaysian furniture, and design company to come up with tips on decorating your home like the Swedes. The company specialises in bringing in modern Scandinavian designs to suit and blend in with the Malaysian lifestyle. For more beautiful contemporary designs, check out their website, www.joyd.my. www.PropertyHunter.com.my

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GADGET & WATCH

ALL SINGING, ALL DANCING BLEEDING EDGE Technological breakthrough; it’s what drives the innovation and creativity today

WATCH

I.N.O.X.: THE ERA OF THE FUNCTIONAL ACCESSORY Personal, playful and smart. Victorinox Swiss Army collaborated with Naimakka to come up with something unconventional. I.N.O.X. Paracord is the watch you can rely on, no matter what. Performance, resistance, versatility, this is far more than a watch. The paracod straps and compass bumpers offer an option for every mood, a function for every need, a style for every lifestyle. Hand-woven from military specified paracord nylon cord originally used for parachute suspension lines, its uncompromising strength is equaled only by its multifunctional nature. The strands of this survival tool can be unraveled to cope with the most unexpected situations to improvise a shelter, secure a pack or weave a fishing net. www.victorinoxwatches.com

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NETATMO PRESENCE – SURVEILLANCE CAMERA A connected outdoor cam attached to a floodlight, the Presence knows the difference between people, cars and animals, and lets you create zones within its 100-degree field of view, so you can tell it what to watch for and where to watch for it. Once installed outside your home, the Netatmo Presence will watch specifically for what you find suspicious while ignoring the commonplace. It detects and reports in realtime if someone loiters around your home, a car enters your driveway or your pet is in the yard. At night, either watch discreetly with Presence’s infra-red night vision or switch the camera’s floodlight on. The smart floodlight can be switched on manually in the app or set to switch on when it detects a person, car or animal - or for all three.

It helps you find your way safely at night and deters any unwanted visitors. www.netatmo.com

SANDISK, CONNECT WIRELESS STICK SanDisk Connect Wireless Stick is the flash drive reinvented to work with both your computer and your mobile devices. With the Wireless Stick in your pocket, in your bag or across the room, you can wirelessly access your media or transfer large files, stream HD videos and music, and save and share photos and videos to and from your mobile device.

The SanDisk’s battery life is rated for 4 hours 30 minutes of continuous video streaming, and it takes about two hours to fully charge, which will happen any time you plug it into a USB port on a computer. How long it lasts will change drastically depending on what you’re using it for— streaming video drains the battery much more quickly compared with just keeping it connected for occasionally moving files. www.sandisk.com

NIKE HYPERADAPT 1.0: GOING BACK TO THE FUTURE Nike HyperAdapt 1.0 is the first performance vehicle for Nike’s latest platform breakthrough, adaptive lacing - in honour of Back To The Future 2’s self lacing shoes. The shoe translates deep research in digital, electrical and mechanical engineering into a product designed for movement. It challenges traditional understanding of fit, proposing an ultimate solution to individual idiosyncrasies in lacing and tension preference. It’s currently controlled by oneself, but it makes achievable to have an automated, nearly symbiotic relationship between the foot and shoe. The laces will automatically tighten itself when it comes in contact with one’s foot. There are two buttons on the side to tighten and loosen. www.news.nike.com

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83

HOT TOPIC

INVESTING IN AUSTRALIA: WHICH MAJOR CITY SHOULD YOU BE INVESTING IN?

In this article, I’d like to explain the property market situation in the biggest Australian cities. This will help you understand where you should be looking to invest in.

Words by Yaron Gal

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Australian property, through

Sydney market has clearly

population growth. Therefore,

the right property cycle in the

the past 100 years or so, has

overheated and is now at the

the Melbourne market will

right area can help you grow

followed a property clock. This

start of a declining market.

still be strong in the near

your equity very quickly.

is a cycle which every property

future. On the property clock,

market in Australia goes

Perth - 3:00 (Declining

Melbourne is about 11-12 and

Brisbane has historically

through.

Market)

is currently a hot market.

always been 2-3 years behind

Perth that had a huge bubble

the Sydney property cycle.

By understanding where each

due to end of the resource

However, I expect the current

Another supporting factor is

of Australia’s major cities

boom. Perth’s economy is

boom to last another 12

that the price gap between

currently are in relation to the

hugely dependent on the

months at the most before

Sydney and these cities is that

property clock, you’ll be able

mining industry, but that has

prices will slow down again

the price gap now is very high.

to understand where the best

now come to an end in the

based on the property cycle

Historically, this means that

investment opportunities are

past few years. There is much

clock.

these markets will play catch

located.

panic and fear in this market

up in the coming few years

as it has entered the declining

Brisbane, Gold Coast &

to narrow the price gap with

Sydney 1:00 (Starting to

market stage.

Adelaide - 9:00 (Rising

Sydney.

decline)

It’s not advisable to enter the

Market)

The Sydney market has been

Conclusion

growing rapidly since mid-

I hope this article has given

2013 until December 2015.

you a good overview of where

Peak of Market

The last peak cycle in Sydney Approaching Peak of Market

was 2003 and most suburbs kept going up in value until

the investment opportunities Starting to Decline

are in the Australian market, based on the time-tested Australian property clock cycle.

end of 2004.

The media didn’t believe housing prices would continue

Rising Market

Declining Market

growing in Sydney back

important to do good research and not be affected by media hype.

then, and tried to convince

Start of Recovery

investors and home owners

Approaching Bottom of Market

to sell their properties before

Ultimately, before you start investing, you should start

Bottom of Market

2000. Statistics showed that as many as 94% of the investor population sold their

working on a personal plan to accumulate wealth safely.

Property should always just be

properties in Sydney at that

used as a vehicle to achieve

time due to the doom and

Perth market at this stage as

The next group of cities are

gloom being touted in the

there is likely a few more years

Brisbane, Gold Coast and

media.

to go until it comes out of its

Adelaide. These three cities

slump. However, long term

have passed the recovery

The exact opposite happened

investors could find bargains

stage and are entering a rising

as after 2000, there was a

in the current market.

market.

sharp growth that continued to 2003 -2004.

But remember, it is still always

your wealth goals.

ABOUT YARON GAL Yaron Gal began purchasing

Melbourne - 11:30 (Peak of

Therefore, I believe these

investment properties while working

Market)

are the best places to invest

full time and bought 4 investment

The same cycle repeated itself

The Melbourne market always

according to the property

properties within less than a year. He

a few years ago, with massive

follows the tail of the Sydney

cycle clock, as we want to gain

now works as a property strategist

growth starting in at 2013 and

property cycle, and has

maximum capital growth.

and helps individuals identify

continued until 2015.

experienced a great jump in

December 2015 was a weak

high growth properties for wealth

property values over the last

This is not to say that all

creation. To get your FREE copy

12 months.

investments will do well

of the ‘Top Growth Hot Spots in

month and since then the

in these cities as market

Australia -2016”, simply email him

market has slowed down, and

Melbourne is a strong market

research is still vitally

at yaron@investinproperties.

even valuations of properties

with a diversified economy,

important to identify the best

com.au

have started to decline. The

and is experiencing good

areas. However, investing at www.PropertyHunter.com.my

85

NEWS

Sabah’s Houses Are the Most Expensive in Malaysia

SB

comparable to Selangor,” he said in a statement recently.

Using the same data, Yin said the median

tank Institut Rakyat, as reported in

Meanwhile, in Kuala Lumpur, the average

said an affordable house for a middle-

TheMalaysianInsider.com.

housing price is RM576,991, but median

income household should be priced at

annual household income in the capital

RM153,000 and below.

Sabah’s houses are the most expensive homes in Malaysia, according to the studies done by PKR-powered think

Citing official data from the fourth quarter of 2012, Institut Rakyat Executive Director

city is only RM70,164 or RM5,847 a month.

household income in the first half of this year was RM4,248 monthly. Therefore he

The house should be at least 800 sq ft

Yin Shao Loong said that homes in

Given that information, housing that costs

with three bedrooms, but he added that

Sabah were twice as unaffordable than

more than three times the annual income

such homes are in short supply.

the national average of RM251,731. He

of the median household is considered

also said that the average home in this

unaffordable.

He said the average house price has

Yin said by the end of 2012, the average

this year, and while this is good news for

house price was 5.79 times the annual

homeowners who can enjoy higher values

He added that Sarawak and Kuala

income of the median Malaysian

for their properties, there are still 27.2%

Lumpur followed suit. “In Sarawak, the

household.

of Malaysian households who do not own

more than doubled from 2000 to early

state costs 11 times more than a family’s median annual income of RM34,320.

average housing price is RM330,594, but

homes.

median annual household income is only

“However, by the first half of this year,

RM36,564,” he explained.

the national housing affordability index improved

“Sabah and Sarawak suffer from a combination of weak household incomes and house prices that are far higher than the national average, with average prices

slightly to 5.52. But, by international standards, this makes Malaysian housing severely unaffordable,” he further added.

Malaysia’s Banking System Remains Stable

1 BK

Moody’s Investors Service says the

worsening consumer and business

next 12 to 18 months, says Moody’s.

outlook for Malaysia’s (A3 stable) banking

sentiment in Malaysia and in turn weigh

Slower revenue growth for the Malaysian

system remains stable, driven by the

on domestic economic growth and

banks will hurt their return on assets,

banks’ strong capital, stable funding levels

growth prospects for banking system

which is already under pressure from

and continued high degree of government

loans,” adds Chen.

weak margins.

support, as reported in Borneo Post.

Downside risks stemming from high

The banks’ credit costs will continue to

According to a press release, these

levels of indebtedness for corporates and

increase, driven by asset quality issues

factors offset a moderate deterioration

households will be elevated under weaker

in home and regional markets while the

in the banks’ operating environment,

macro conditions but Moody’s expects

government’s capacity to support the

and consequently, their asset quality and

capitalization will remain sufficient to

country’s banks remains intact, supported

profitability profiles.

withstand asset quality shocks even under

by its commitment towards fiscal reforms

various stress scenarios.

and a narrower fiscal deficit.

It also expects the banks’ funding and

Moody’s continues to view Malaysia as a

“The banks’ operating conditions will continue to be challenging in Malaysia.

liquidity profiles will remain stable, with “Headwinds include lower crude oil prices,

high-support country; there have been no

funding to remain as a key strength of the

weak external demand, further weakening

bank failures since Bank Negara Malaysia

banking system.

was established in 1959.

of the Malaysian ringgit, and rising concerns around governance highlighted

Even when domestic liquidity tightened in

by the controversy around 1Malaysia

the fourth quarter of 2015 due to capital

Development Bhd (1MDB),” says Simon

flight driven by market volatility, the

Chen, a Moody’s vice president and senior

impact on banking system liquidity was

analyst.

manageable.

“These challenges contribute to a

Profitability will also deteriorate over the

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2 1.

2.

Beautiful KK City Bank Negara Malaysia

Liwagu River

Kinabalu Park Boundary

Kinabalu Park Approximate outline of proposed resort site in yellow

Royal Kinabalu Site

Prime Mount Kinabalu Resort Development Land For Sale Location of proposed resort site adjoining Kinabalu Park

Attention Developers and Investors!

A unique opportunity to develop a luxury eco-resort on 22.4 acres of cool pristine highland forest land located at the foothills of Mount Kinabalu. The land comes with fully approved development plan for a 192-room luxury resort and is on a CL title which can be owned by a non-Malaysian. The property borders directly on Kinabalu Park, the Liwagu river and the main road from Kota Kinabalu to Kundasang with an uninterrupted view of Mount Kinabalu. Kinabalu Park is a major tourist destination and the gateway to Mount Kinabalu.

Accommodation: 64 / 1-room Villas, 40 / 2-room Villas (with living room) , 48 Hotel Rooms, Executive and Staff Quarters

Facilities: Restaurant/Bar with Pool Deck, Health Spa Complex, Conference Room

Access from main road and ridge top location

Asking Price

USD 3.75 million For further information, kindly contact: Nasran Harun at +60188318282 or Kinabaluprop@gmail.com

View from site www.PropertyHunter.com.my

87

NEWS

Revised Minimum Wage to Take Effect in July

SW

The revised minimum wage will be

“The fine is a maximum of

implemented in Sarawak on July 1st, as

RM10,000 or one year’s jail for

reported in The Borneo Post.

errant employers,” he told reporters covering the launch of the Sector

State Labour director Datu August Buma

Focused Career Fair (SFCF): Unimas

said the 2016 federal budget stipulated

Innovation, Career and Education

that the minimum wage for workers in

Fairs. August said his office would

the private sector in Sarawak, Sabah and

release an official statement soon

Labuan be increased from the current

on the revised minimum wage.

1

Four cases were pending court

RM800 to RM920.

On those who flouted the minimum

“We have been directed by the Ministry of Human Resources to go to the field to ensure all employers comply with the new scheme once implemented.”

wage scheme this year, he said there were 21 cases.

decisions, and the remaining 14 cases were still under investigations, he added.

On the May 7 state election, August said

Of these 21 cases, three cases - two in Kuching and one in Miri - were each

there was no report of employees being denied their rights to vote.

fined RM2,500 in default three months jail by the magistrate court.

Pan Borneo Sabah Highway to Be Completed by 2022

SB

phrase of the Pan Borneo Sabah Tawau-

The Sabah Pan Borneo project will create

Sandakan dual carriageway highway at

a positive impact on the infrastructure

SMK Balung on Saturday afternoon.

landscape and socio-economy in Sabah while it connects with the other main

2

Prime Minister Dato’ Sri Mohd Najib Tun Abdul Razak announced on Saturday, May 28th, that the Sabah 1,236-kilometre Pan Borneo toll fee dual carriageway from Tawau to Kota Kinabalu costing about RM12.8 billion would be completed by 2022, as reported in Borneo Post.

Najib assured that it would be the vision of Sabah to narrow the development gap between Sabah and Peninsular Malaysia and the state would be further developed under the leadership of Barisan National (BN).

There will be two promised contracts to be fulfilled by BN, namely the upgrading of the Jalan Donggongon-Papar Spur (3B package) and the five-kilometre TawauSandakan dual carriageway highway (Second package/Second phrase), which are expected to be constructed in early June.

districts in Sabah such as Kota Kinabalu,

Seri Panglima Musa Aman, Public Works

Tuaran, and Kudat.

Minister Dato’ Sri Fadillah Yusof, ministers, assistant ministers, members of parliament

This project will be implemented via the

and assemblymen.

Project Delivery Partner (PDP) by Borneo Highway PDP Sdn Bhd (BHP) according to

“This project is dedicated to Sabahans who

www.PropertyHunter.com.my

the Key Performance Indicator (KPI).

are always loyal to BN. We want the people to know that the government’s aspirations,

Earlier, Chief Minister Datuk Musa Aman

wishes and visions are not a dream but a

disclosed that Sabah had always been in

reality.

our Prime Minister’s heart and it was not

“This construction project, from Km43 in Tawau township to Km48 at Semporna check-point roundabout, will transform the local economy among the rural and urban residents here, apart from boosting the tourism industry,” he said.

The project will also support the infrastructure and logistic network of

the first time for him to visit Sabah, and he would visit Lahad Datu again in September.

He said Sabahans are loyal to the leadership and would stand behind their leaders for national solidarity.

“I believe this Pan Borneo project can become an economic catalyst for Sabah which can bring a bright future to the state.

I hope the people of Sabah will not forget the government,” he said.

small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in Tawau and other industries under the Sabah Economic and Investment Authority (Sedia).

He said this when launching the second

88

Also present were Chief Minister Datuk

1.

2.

Minimum wage to be increased Pan Borneo Highway

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By Charles Tan

www.kopiandproperty.com

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A knowledgeable investor always has options

An Insider’s Look into the Property Market, H1 2016

I read a LinkedIn article

compared to the property

In Malaysia, there is an

process of bank loan

entitled ‘Good Employees

that we bought. During a

overwhelming number of

applications are holding

Always Have Options’. I agree

slowdown, that’s the best

new home owners. According

back buyers to purchase a

with the statement and I think

time for property investors

to a survey, among the top 5

property.

all of us must make ourselves

with deep pockets. In fact,

reasons why people invest in

a good employee. However,

when the stock market is

properties are to get higher

There has also been a steady

when we look at some of the

volatile, it provides some

yields on rentals (56%), for

decline in the “overseas

news about retrenchments,

opportunities to enter the

good capital appreciation

property sentiments” and

we would understand that

market at a lower price and to

(55%), for retirement

increased interest for

sometimes even being a

hold on for a longer term.

planning (46%), for a better

commercial properties.

environment (46%) and

good employee is not enough because no one knows what

A good investor would have

to own a house due to

may happen to our jobs in

a diversified portfolio. A

affordable pricing (36%).

the future. Fortunate thing

knowledgeable investor would

is, if we get retrenched, but

always have options. This

Amongst home buyers,

we were a stellar employee,

allows him to continuously

location is the most

we would have options to fall

readjust, because some

important criteria when

back on. In other words, it

sectors would do well even

considering a home and

should be pretty easy to get

when some sectors are

Klang Valley is becoming

another similar paying job, or

doing badly. Of course, if a

the most favoured place to

better.

financial crisis were to start

own a home. Almost 55% of

externally and spread to Asia,

the participants are already

And just like being a good

then the chances for most

living in the area, with 70%

employee, we also need to

sectors to be down would be

of the participants are

be a good, knowledgeable

high. Perhaps except food.

looking forward to acquiring

investor. It does not even

Starbucks remains a major

properties there.

need to be investing in

contributor to Berjaya Food in

property because from the

terms of earnings.

Excessive pricing of

studies, in terms of average,

properties is the number

the property prices is only

one deterrent for purchasing

growing along the lines of

property in Malaysia

inflation rate. The good thing

amongst potential buyers.

is that property asset capital

Besides that poor economic

appreciation is based on its

performance, the rapid

selling price. This is unlike

increase of property prices,

our savings which will only

unpredictable real estate

be increasing based on the

market and touch approval

actual amount we have. This is likely to be much smaller

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91

NEWS

THE COFFEE MAN AT IJM LAND’S PANTAI SENTRAL PARK ICE Gallery hosts Good Coffee Day with

The 80-minute documentary

movie screening with World Barista

follows Sasa Sestic, the

Champion Sasa Sestic and coffee

Australian Barista Champion

workshop by Latte Art Champion Tristan

and winner of the World

Creswick.

Barista Championship 2015 in

WM

Seattle, on his journey to find Over the last few years the coffee culture

the best coffee in the world.

has changed dramatically, and the black delicacy has shifted from being a standardised daily morning stimulant to becoming more and more a semi-luxury drink. That was reason enough for IJM LAND to invite more than 150 guests to the Good Coffee Day at the ICE Gallery at Pantai Sentral Park for a special screening of the documentary The Coffee Man. Senior General Manager of IJM LAND Berhad, Mr. Hoo Kim See, explains the decision to host the movie at the gallery: “Pantai Sentral Park puts a lot of value on a high quality of living. For some, this means a being able to enjoy a lot of green are around their home, and for others this means that a good day has to start with the perfect cup of coffee. At PSP, we offer all those values to everybody and we are proud to express that by showing The Coffee Man”.

“I started roasting my first batches of coffee beans in a friend’s garage before I eventually got to work as a barista in Manuka, one of Ona’s flagships” – Sasa Sestic

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is not just coffee, but different sorts of coffee beans have varied characteristics which, if roasted and treated correctly, result in full and rich coffee flavours.

As a special highlight the coffee man

In order to treat the audience adequately

himself, Sasa Sestic, joined the screening

to the coffee theme, Australian coffee

to share some of his most interesting

roaster Coffex provided the guests with

moments from the shoot and his career

a large variety of freshly brewed cups

in the world of coffee in a Meet & Greet

of coffee whose soothing fragrance

and interview session with the audience.

soon filled the ICE Gallery. Malaysia’s

2008 Sydney/NSW Latte Art Champion Tristan Michael Creswick took the stage and lead through a filter coffee workshop that taught all those present the importance of coffee beans of good quality. The guests learned that coffee

Low Cost Housing in Sarawakians’ Favour

First Coffee Caricature Artist Vivian Lee painted creative caricatures just with the help of coffee for the joyful guests to take home.

For more information visit www.pantaisentralpark.com.

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providing affordable homes

Infrastructure Development.

for those in need,” he shared.

But the challenge with urbanisation is how to go about in an orderly way and

In addition, there are a

soften its negative effects.

number of upcoming

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Sarawak’s Assistant Housing Minister Datuk Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah pledged that he will continue the government’s programmes to help more people have a roof above their heads, as reported in PropertyGuru.com.my.

“My immediate focus is on continuing with the Housing Ministry’s plan in

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developments that need to

“It starts with jobs, business and good

be built on time, said the

income. Then there are the facilities and

Asajaya assemblyman, who

amenities that have to be provided –

is also the Assistant Minister

houses, roads, hospitals, schools, water

for Youth and Sports.

and electricity among others,” he noted.

Meanwhile, Jepak assemblyman Datuk

But because these are not all under

Talib Zulpilip explained that urbanisation

the purview of just one ministry there

is a necessity for the state.

is a need for various agencies and departments to work closely together,

“We are fortunate that Sarawak grows

added Talib.

at a rather fast rate. Urbanisation and growth go hand in hand. This must be accepted,” said Talib who was appointed Assistant Minister for Urbanisation and

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Senior General Manager of IJM LAND Mr. Hoo Kim See and 2015 World Barista Champion Sasa Sestic Sarawak eyes more low-cost homes

NEWS

Drone Intrusion Peeves Condo Developer The operation of drones in Singapore

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reported The Straits Times.

is in the spotlight once again, after an

“Civil claims under private law would obviously include the tort of trespass

alleged incident involving one flying

Current regulations concerning the use

to property. Also, a person who suffers

into the construction site of a recently

of unmanned aircraft, such as drones,

damage to property in connection with a

launched condominium in Redhill, raising

fall under the Civil Aviation Authority

drone could sue under the tort of private

serious safety and security concerns, as

of Singapore (CAAS). Their website lists

nuisance or negligence,” said Vijayendran.

reported in PropertyGuru.com.sg.

down strict criteria for operators to

A source with knowledge of the issue told

follow, which includes flying drones a safe

Under the law, a penalty imposed on a

distance away from people and property.

drone operator for a first offence is a

PropertyGuru that a real estate agent

fine not exceeding $20,000. A second or

flew the drone into the site after a buyer

“Despite the safety features in some

subsequent offence would incur a fine

supposedly got cold feet and asked to

unmanned aircraft, mechanical

not exceeding $40,000, or imprisonment

see what the view would be like from the

malfunction, loss of control link or human

for a term not exceeding 15 months, or

future apartment.

error could occur and cause operators to

both.

lose control of their aircraft in flight,” the The project’s developer is understood to

CAAS said.

be aware of the incident and is taking the

Meanwhile, the property agency that employed the agent could also land

matter seriously, which could result in the

“This may result in the unmanned

itself in hot soup, as “the agency could

property agency involved being sacked.

aircraft colliding with a manned aircraft

be vicariously liable for the agent’s act of

When contacted, a spokesperson for the

or another unmanned aircraft, or hitting

trespass, nuisance or negligence”, noted

developer would neither confirm nor

persons and property on the ground,

Vijayendran.

deny if the incident took place.

potentially causing injury and damage.”

In Singapore, the use of drones to take aerial photos is a standard practice among developers who use it as a marketing tool to help sell units on higher floors that offer scenic views of the sea or city skyline.

This latest incident is believed to be the first in Singapore linked to a condo, and comes after laws on the use of drones here took effect in June 2015.

Between April 2014 and May 2015, there were 20 incidents involving drones, said then-Transport Minister Lui Tuck Yew in Parliament last year. These included drones falling onto MRT tracks in two separate instances in 2015. In both cases, the operators lost control of the drones while flying them, but there were no disruptions or damage to property.

Depending on the drone model, they typically cost between $50 to more than $1,300, and are popular among hobbyists who like to fly them in open fields,

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Gregory Vijayendran, Partner, Commercial Litigation at law firm Rajah & Tann, explained that permits are required to operate drones for business purposes, such as in the marketing of property.

Although it isn’t known if the unnamed agent in this case applied to the CAAS for a license to operate the drone, he or she could still find themselves on the wrong side of the law as the developer has

He added that more can be done to educate drone operators here.

“Singaporeans must realise that the use of drones can be sunk by laws other than gravity. The potential intrusive and invasive nature of drones need to be properly managed by operators to avoid criminal responsibility and civil liability.”

grounds to take civil action against those involved.

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Eye in the sky www.PropertyHunter.com.my

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NEWS

2 Steps to Reduce Your Loan Tenure

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by any banks, they will not want a losing business. In actual fact, you will be paying 1 extra month installment every year.

Bi-weekly payment is calculated every 14 days and based on a year with 365 days the borrower will make 26 installments in a year instead of 24. Most borrowers will not even feel a pinch in their wallet but look at the savings.

Second Step. Make extra payment towards the loan principal If you would like to save more than this, then follow my second strategy which is very simple.

Owning a home for most of us is the single and largest commitment we have. Do you know that most Malaysians only pay minimum loan installment every month and this translates into paying nearly double your loan amount and serving all those interest to the bank.

Take for instance a RM300,000 loan amount with a 30 year tenure at an interest rate of 4.5%. If you pay the loan diligently until the whole tenure (taking interest rate constant) you will have paid a total of RM247,218.25 in interest. Well, this is what typical Malaysians are paying

I will share with you 2 simple steps which

As a general rule of thumb take 10% of

you can apply which will save you tens

your monthly installment which is RM150

and thousands in interest.

based on the previous example and use the money as extra payment towards the

First Step, choose a Bi-weekly payment

principal of your loan. You will combine

package

strategy 1 and 2 together. (Please refer to

Instead of paying monthly installment you

Appendix 2)

can opt for Bi-weekly payment instead.

Based on the above calculations, if you

This is very popular in the United States.

add both strategies you already saved

In the US, you need to pay a consultant to assist in setting up the account but in Malaysia it’s free. Just walk right into the bank and get the mortgage officers assistance in applying for the package.

This is how it works. (Please refer to Appendix 1)

to the banks.

Sometimes, you just need to put a little extra effort into looking for ways to save those interest and this will definitely make Appendix 2

huge impact on your savings. It is all about starting to do proper planning on

8.5 years off your tenure years and also

your mortgages.

Taking the above example for instance, with a monthly loan installment of RM1,520 you can device savings strategies based on the huge range of mortgage packages offered by the bank.

Different borrowers are suitable for different loan packages. You will have to find the one that can help you the most and please remember lowest interest rate does not necessary is the best loan package.

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Appendix 1

Instead of paying the usual monthly

RM78,000 in interest payable to the bank.

Isn’t this great?

installment you can pay half the amount

Every loan borrower will be able to do

but twice in a month. By doing this you

this. You just need a little effort. In my

have already saved 4.5 years on your loan

years in mortgage consultancy I even

tenure or RM42,495.71 in interest to the

manage to assist my clients to finish less

bank.

than 10 years using money they already

The next question going through your mind is what is the catch? It is too good to be true. Well, in any packages introduced

have. All these can be made possible with proper planning.

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NEWS

China Investors Eyes Sabah Market Deputy Chief Minister and Industrial Development Minister Datuk Seri Raymond Tan received a courtesy visit from China top companies led by HSBC Malaysia on Wednesday (June 22) afternoon at Wisma Tun Fuad Stephens, as reported in The Borneo Post.

Under the program of One-BeltOne-Road from China, Sinohydro Corporation, China Railway Construction Corporation, Midea Group, Shanghai Electric and others were excited to explore the market in Sabah.

At the meeting, the China delegates were briefed by the Department of Industrial Development and Research, Palm Oil Industrial Cluster and Sabah Oil

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“With the Economy Transformation Program which was introduced by our Prime Minister, we can see he is very aggressively looking for the investment from the USA, China and other countries to sustain the economy of Malaysia”, said Tan. “For the Sabah Government, we have a long-term plan to develop the State and it is practical and with proven track record. My department officer told me that in the first quarter of 2016, we managed to capture nearly two billion of foreign investment and it will be announced to the public soon”, he added.

On other development of the meeting, the minister told the delegates with the China Consul Office in Kota Kinabalu that he is confident and comfortable to work with the investors from China and the investors will be guided by the consul office too.

“We are very aggressively looking for investors to invest in Sabah, but we also promote to create more jobs and skill workers to facilitate the markets’ needs”, he explained.

“With this, we can create more highpaying jobs in the market like workers in SAMUR (Sabah Ammonia Urea Plant) in Sipitang and others”, he added.

and Gas Industrial Park on investment potential in Sabah.

Sepang International Circuit to See an Entertainment Hub

WM

A 260-hectare undeveloped land along Sepang International Circuit (SIC) could be one of the major drivers to boost the Malaysian economy as SIC has big plans for the development, as reported in PropertyGuru.com.my.

Previously, the masterplan of the circuit includes a theme park to promote it as an entertainment city. But the plan has been revised and now there are plans to include a zone for live music and concerts, as well as other nightlife activities. The goal is to make SIC more

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than a place for motorsport activities.

The Mitsui Outlet Park and KLIA Besides that, almost 47% of the

Aeropolis in the Kuala Lumpur

260-hectare land has been allocated

International Airport (KLIA) would also

for the development of a commercial

compliment SIC in its long-term plan.

park, hotel development and a safe

Its close proximity to KLIA will further

driving centre. Meanwhile, the remaining

benefit the plan as this would create

53% of the land is allocated for the

an appealing factor for the public and

entertainment hub.

also entrepreneurs who might consider starting up their business here in the future.

“SIC would be lively 24/7 and will be the place that crosses people’s mind when they think about going out for some leisure time, whether it is day or night,” added SIC CEO Datuk Razlan Razali.

The hotel development is expected to commence in Q1 2017.

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Aerial shot of SIC

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