08 MAY 2019 WEDNESDAY
GreenRE leads the charge for a more sustainable and environment-friendly future See pages 6 & 7
INSIDE THIS ISSUE
EXPERT SHARING
SPECIAL FEATURE
Why most smart cities fail P 03
Building a sustainable future P 10
www.starproperty.my www.propwall.my www.ibilik.my
StarProperty.my
STARPROPERTY.MY FAIR
StarProperty
Last chance to buy a new home before HOC 2019 ends P 11
StarPropertyTV
StarProperty.my (Eng) Property Trends (Chi)
F eatured Development
www.starproperty.my www.propwall.my www.ibilik.my StarProperty.my StarProperty StarPropertyTV
Assistant General Manager ERNEST TOWLE ernest@thestar.com.my
EDITORIAL Contributing Editor DAVID YEOH Acting Head of Content VIKTOR CHONG viktorchong@thestar.com.my Content VIKTOR CHONG HAKIM HASSAN Video Producer ALAN KHAW alankhaw@thestar.com.my Designers KWONG CHEE OON QUEENY YONG NURUL AIDA TAJUDIN
MARKETING & SALES Head of Customer Engagement & Support IVY LEONG 03 7967 1347 ivyleong@thestar.com.my Marketing Manager FAYE TAN fayetan@thestar.com.my
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STARPROPERTY.MY 08 MAY 2019
KEYS TO SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENTS
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HE sustainability of any development can take on Other key aspects such as safety and security, transportaBy many aspects and forms, including the carbon foottion as well as amenities – schools, hospitals, police and fire ERNEST TOWLE print generated in the construction of a project and stations, eateries and places of leisure – must be present. the resources to support and make it vibrant. Even when all these aspects are there, the development From an environmental standpoint, sustainability quesmay not be sustainable. A top ingredient for development sustions whether the fine balance between nature preservation and tainability is the size of the local population. Only through a sizeable the development concept is met. number of residents can the required financial resources be generated to Developments that disregard or attempt to alter the natural surroundprovide the needed services for the development’s sustainability over the ings significantly – through over-felling of trees, massive earthworks, and long term. the creation of a lush landscape without proper engineering in a place Most, if not all, developers today do not adopt a hit-and-run philosophy where fresh water is scarce – may see more problems in the long term due when designing and building their projects. They want their developments to negative environmental impact as well as high maintenance cost. to create a lasting and positive impact for both the homebuyers and adjaFrom the vibrancy standpoint of a development, many factors come cent communities while standing as testament to their abilities. into play including proper town planning where form should follow Balancing the triage of environment, commercial and humanistic function and not the other way round. This certainly bears strongly as needs is crucial to the sustainability of a development. Being able to evolve to whether the development will be able to accommodate the needs and as the needs of the community shift due to changing trends means that the evolution of its populace. development will be better placed to adapt and be truly sustainable.
STARPROPERTY.MY EVENT HIGHLIGHTS Discover Best@Putrajaya The cool, burgeoning length of Putrajaya’s park and wetlands stretch through the green city, beckoning house buyers to thrive within its verdant community. Discover more about this place in the latest edition of Best@, which covers every angle of Putrajaya -- from the gastronomic journey through cafes and restaurants, down to the parks teeming with flowers and avian wonder, and over the azure lake that courses along the cityscape. Putrajaya is more than a nexus to the Malaysian administrative body; it has the makings of a premium address set in an idyllic spot. Get your Best@ e-copy at https://best.starproperty. my/putrajaya/
Jom Beli & Menang contest StarProperty.my brings a contest that will reward you with great prizes. You could be the one driving your family to their new home in a new car. When you purchase a property at one of our fairs (happening at the Midvalley Exhibition Centre and various other shopping centres until November 2019), sign an SPA (Sale and Purchase Agreement) and join the contest. All you really have to do is visit our fairs (follow our Facebook page for announcements), pre-register for the “Beli & Menang” contest, submit a booking for one of the showcased properties offered by participating developers, answer a question, submit a slogan, and provide us with proof of purchase in the form of the SPA or S&P -and you could be the winner of the grand prize!
Experts share their knowledge The StarProperty. my Fair 2019 to be held soon in Mid Valley Megamall will feature an assemblage of prominent speakers and experts, including a property analyst, feng shui master, property investor, and tax consultant. Adrian Yeo, founder and managing partner of AdrianYeo PLT, will discuss the purchase vehicles and tax tips for property investment while LivingSpace founder Ikhram Merican will touch on property cycles, the nature behind their occurrence and the way to navigate them successfully. Topics are wide-ranging and the audience will be treated to insights regarding the property industry. Don’t miss out on this opportunity; bring along your family members and friends to the StarProperty.my Fair 2019 at Mid Valley.
LATEST HAPPENINGS Concerns over elevated highway The credibility of the traffic impact assessment (TIA) report on the controversial RM211. 75mil elevated Jalan Damansara-Semantan Highway is being questioned. During a town hall dialogue at the Bukit Damansara Community Centre last week, representatives of several residents associations in the area objected to the project on grounds that last year’s TIA report was too narrow and failed to take into account the impact on the greater Damansara area. “Until today, we have yet to see any holistic TIA report covering the entire area as opposed to an isolated area that serves only limited interests,” said urban planning pressure group Selamatkan KL vice-chairman Datuk M. Ali. The three-lane highway will stretch for 1.34km from the Sprint Highway-Jalan Maarof interchange to the Sprint Highway-Jalan Semantan interchange.
Adventure Park for residents of Setia EcoHill 2
Township gets a drive-thru KFC outlet
Setia EcoHill 2 welcomes a new extension to its township, the Adventure Park, which was launched by Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Haji Dzulkefly Ahmad. About RM3mil was spent on the park which stretches 17 acres, with its highest peak at 120m above sea level. Up to 95% of the trees at the original Bukit Tempurung area were conserved while building Adventure Park. It also features three trails of varying difficulty, making it a good spot for cycling enthusiasts. Other activities include hiking, jogging, mountain biking, bird-watching and learning spots offering environmental information.
Sime Darby Property Bhd has partnered QSR Brands Holdings Bhd to set up the first drive-thru KFC restaurant in Bandar Universiti Pagoh. The intention is to add value to the township and meet the demands of its burgeoning student population. “Our partnership with QSR will enhance the township with the popular quick-service restaurant chain that will cater to about 10,000 students,” said Sime Darby Property chief operating officer for township development Datuk Wan Hashimi. The proposed 0.89-acre site for the drive-thru is at a designated commercial area of the Sarjana Promenade. The restaurant is scheduled to open at the end of June 2020.
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E xpert Sharing
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08 MAY 2019
WHY MOST SMART CITIES FAIL Unused technologies and unsolved problems among major obstacles along the way
By BRICE RICHARD
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N the last 10 to 15 years, countless cities worldwide have branded themselves as “smart” – whether as a branding strategy or a genuine attempt to leverage advanced technologies to improve traffic flow, enhance security, deliver public services online, or create engaging public places. Yet, years later, the results are underwhelming, with unused technologies, unsolved problems and pilot projects abandoned half way. Why is this so?
Tech-driven, not problem-driven In planning smart cities, governments and developers often get distracted by tech fads without a preliminary understanding of the problems to solve. While terms such as drones and blockchain make for compelling marketing brochures, do they address pressing issues and can these be tackled without technology? Technologies that work perfectly well in labs rarely do so in the real world without significant investments in integration, training and process improvements. While a technology that regulates traffic is useful, it may require expensive integration with legacy systems, continuous staff training, and an overhaul of how transport authorities monitor and influence traffic. Technology is just the tip of the iceberg. For it to work properly in a given environment, many other elements need to be properly redesigned.
Money flow and stakeholders Investing in a smart city is the same as with any other city – it needs a clear return based on a sound understanding of both capital expenditure and operating expenses, value (savings, new revenue created) and, most importantly, who will be bearing the former and capturing the latter. As such, smart initiatives often involve a complex web of stakeholders and money flow that must be calibrated to be financially sustainable. However, this operational and money equation rarely receives proper attention. These complications explain why so many smart city projects rarely go beyond the glossy brochures, or fall flat. Rio de Janeiro is an example of a smart city success story that, in the end, showed the limitation of a technologydriven approach without proper implementation. Its integrated Command and Control Centre earned the city a “World Smart City Award” from the Smart City Expo World Congress in 2013. While the centre allowed for road monitoring
and improvements in traffic flow, it has also been criticised for not addressing many of the critical challenges faced by the city (poor governance and rampant inequality, among others), and for being an exclusive and secretive initiative. Hidden behind high walls, the centre does not share information with the public, and only focused surveillance on the most affluent portions of town. In addition, the centre uses hardwired, integrated IBM technologies which are incredibly costly and complex to update. Rio’s struggle to get the alchemy of smart city right is only one of the many global examples of poorly implemented ideas, programmes abandoned half way, or technology not having real impact. As they embark on their own smart-city journeys, Malaysian cities like Kuala Lumpur and Penang have a unique opportunity to learn from their peers. As one of the global pioneers of smart-city consulting, Arup has been behind the formulation of strategies for many large cities worldwide, including Denmark, Australia, the UK and, more recently, Singapore and Malaysia.
Drawing on Arup’s global experience, I have picked three key considerations that cities should look at to shape their vision and strategy.
1. Less is more
Brice Richard is a digital and smart city lead for Arup.
TECHNOLOGY IS JUST THE TIP OF THE ICEBERG. FOR IT TO WORK PROPERLY IN A GIVEN ENVIRONMENT, MANY OTHER ELEMENTS NEED TO BE PROPERLY RE-DESIGNED.
Arup initiates each project with an exploratory phase focused on defining what will truly make a city or a development unique. With the belief that “less is more”, we collaborate with clients to identify priorities. Should the estate be amazingly walkable? Is the city going to be defined by a strong community? Should this resort stand out for its unique digital experiences? These priorities give the focus needed to do things right.
2. Experience and outcome-driven With priorities defined, we still do not address technology from the outset but pay attention instead to designing the experiences and outcomes that will achieve these priorities. For example, to increase the attractiveness of a shopping mall, we will work with design and landscape architects to define a series
of experiences (augmented-reality trails, therapeutic gardens, flexible workspace) that will help turn the shopping mall into a lifestyle hub. Design at this stage requires the collaboration of architects, engineers, landscapers and behavioural specialists to create revolutionary spaces and cities.
3. Impact focused When experiences are defined, then and only then can technology be explored to determine the right mix of solutions to achieve the city’s vision. Rather than throwing fancy fads at simple problems, we believe in sound business planning as well as working with technology partners. Why reinvent the wheel when bringing in Grab, Honestbee, and Foodpanda can enable smart experiences? Digital master-planning is not about technology and should be integrated from the outset when planning a smart city. By beginning with a clear vision of what their cities will be, planners can map out key strategies and digital initiatives that enhance both city operations and citizen experiences.
Disclaimer: This article is merely the contributors’ personal view and opinion. It does not represent the stand of any media, firm or association. The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed in the text belong solely to the contributor. The information and/or documents contained herein are not intended to be a source of investment advice or credit analysis.
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Designed with healthy living in mind, Platinum Arena features a slew of fitness-related facilities.
05 MAY 2019
Residents can enjoy an abundance of amenities and facilities as well as easy accessibility to nearby mature districts.
FOR HEALTHCONSCIOUS FAMILIES Platinum Arena residents to benefit from plenty of fitnessrelated facilities
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NCE a sleepy neighbourhood between Port Klang and Kuala Lumpur, Old Klang Road has developed and mushroomed into a dynamic and booming area populated by shopping centres, business districts and housing estates. Now home to an ever-growing population, this iconic roadway is a much sought-after address in the Klang Valley because of its strategic location. Residents enjoy an abundance of amenities and facilities as well as easy accessibility to nearby mature districts. Located along Old Klang Road is Platinum Victory’s latest offering, Platinum Arena – a 2.921-acre mixed development that’s equipped for the health-conscious and young urbanites. Platinum Arena comprises two blocks, the 420-unit Block A or Armstrong and the 308-unit Block B or Boris priced from RM530psf. Built-up sizes range from 650sf to 1,008sf in five layouts. At the base of the two blocks is the commercial component consisting of shoplots for the convenience of residents. Designed with healthy living in mind, Platinum Arena features a slew of fitness-related facilities such as a 265m jogging track, dance / yoga studio, gymnasium, sports hall, outdoor fitness zone, and outdoor playground. Other
Homeowners and their loved ones can enjoy the scenic views atop Platinum Arena.
facilities include a viewing deck, AV room, a library, sky lounge, and BBQ area. Being in the heart of Klang Valley, Platinum Arena residents have easy access to nearby roadways that lead to many iconic landmarks such as Mid Valley and Suria KLCC as well as several interchanges linking to Jalan Puchong, Shah Alam Expressway (Kesas) and the New Pantai Expressway. Public transportation options are available nearby including the Petaling KTM Station, Awan Besar LRT Station and Taman Jaya LRT Station for residents to enjoy hassle-free commute to and from the city. Old Klang Road itself is a mature neighbourhood with a number of shopping malls, hypermarkets and commercial districts – all in the vicinity of the development. Platinum Arena is a suitable living space for young families because schools are situated nearby, from primary to secondary and tertiary level including Sunway University, Vikas International School, Taylor’s University Lakeside campus and Monash University Sunway campus. Enquiries can be made at the Platinum Victory Sales Galley in Old Klang Road. Call 0111-722 6525 or visit platinumarena.com.my for more information.
Parents can bring their children to have fun at the kid's playroom.
Built-up sizes range from 650sf to 1,008sf in five layouts.
Homebuyers would have easy access to nearby roadways that lead to many iconic landmarks.
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Cover Story
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By VIKTOR CHONG and MOHD SHARIL TARMIZE viktorchong@thestar.com.my / sharil@mystar.com.my
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HE progress of humanity has always been at odds with the environment – a timeless tug of war between civilisational needs and the prudence of conservation. Nature, as a voiceless stakeholder, often loses out in this confrontation. As urbanisation continues to encroach into the sanctity of mother nature, prominent voices have called out to re-examine our actions and to find a middle ground where people and environment can co-exist. Hence, sustainability has risen to harmonise human development and the environment. In Malaysia, green rating tool GreenRE was set up byRehda in 2013 to promote sustainability in the property industry. According to GreenRE chief operating officer Ir Ashwin Thurairajah, sustainability is any endeavour to meet the needs of the present without compromising the well-being of future generations. The bottom line of sustainability is striking a balance with competing social, economic and environmental constraints. In 2015, United Nations member states adopted the 2030 agenda for sustainable development which identified 17 design goals to be taken up by developed as well as developing countries. At the heart of these goals is the recognition that ending poverty, improving health and education, reducing inequality and spurring economic growth must go hand in hand with tackling climate change and the preservation of oceans and forests.
Standards for projects to follow Answering the call for a more sustainable future, green buildings have been developed – their construction and operations leveraging on the efficient use of energy, water and materials. Such buildings are also environment-friendly due to their location where the flora and fauna have not been jeopardised. A green building inherently has a low carbon footprint, reduces environmental impact and enhances the indoor environment, which improves the social well-being of the occupants. In other words, it is a quality building with higher standards that will perform better over its life cycle. Applying this concept into a local setting, Ashwin said the frequent occurrence of flash floods in Malaysia can be mitigated with the certification of more green buildings. Storm management in Malaysia is a problem, he added. “We have the standards, but it is not well checked and implemented,” he said, adding that the process of getting a green building certificate ensures that this matter is better addressed. From the end-user perspective, support for green buildings helps mitigate world issues such as global warming. The latest Paris Accord that was signed by over 150 countries has set the targeted limit on the rate of global warming. It is no longer about arresting global warming but to limit its impact. “It is not so much about saving the environment; it’s about saving ourselves from the environment,” he said. Drawing parallels with Singapore, Ashwin said that a Singaporean uses an average of 170 to 180 litres of water per day compared to a Malaysian’s 240 litres. The UN aims to bring water consumption down to 150 litres per person, per day.
The primary aim of GreenRE is to promote sustainability through the certification standards that the organisation has developed to rate building projects. GreenRE aims to green both new and existing buildings in Malaysia. “Developers are encouraged to adopt these standards and gear their projects to achieve the ratings being set,” said Ashwin. The buildings are then certified based on their performance in accordance with a points system. To date, GreenRE has over 170 projects registered encompassing more than 100mil sq ft in gross floor area. Using the GreenRE goldcertified Rehda headquarters as an example, Ashwin said that the building makes extensive use of natural ventilation. It has a doubleskinned wall design on the west facade and external shading on the east facade to reduce heat gain. Furthermore, the building uses natural daylight, rainwater harvesting and solar panels to minimise energy usage. Paints used for all the walls and ceilings is low VOC type that reduces the prevalence of harmful chemicals in the indoor environment.
GREEN BUILD BRING BENEFI
GreenRE leads the charge for a more sustainable and environment-friendly future
Rating based on six pillars Buildings are generally rated based on six major pillars: energy efficiency, water efficiency, environmental protection, indoor environment quality, innovative green solutions, and carbon impact. There is a strong focus on energy efficiency where half of GreenRE points are derived. Improved energy efficiency not only reduces operating cost but also significantly lowers the carbon footprint of the development as electricity in Malaysia is primarily derived from fossil fuels. A provisional certificate is issued once the design stage of the building is completed. A final certificate (valid for three years after which re-certification is required) is awarded after the building is completed and is in operation. Upon completion, GreenRE usually requires the building to operate for at least six months or have at least 50% occupancy before the commencement of site verification assessment. GreenRE assessors will then visit the building to ensure all green features are in order. Building owners are required to submit energy, water and waste management data annually prior to re-certification. The professionals of the project will have to send GreenRE all the documentation again to show that they have built it according to the design. If it matches the design requirements and the occupants are comfortable in the building, then GreenRE will award the final certificate. On the matter of impartiality, Ashwin said that each GreenRE project at assessment level is reviewed internally by full-time assessors and externally by independent reviewers who are established green building professionals. Each project is assigned one reviewer with careful consideration to ensure that there is no conflict of interest.
Steps in the right direction Ashwin pointed out that less than 1% of Malaysian building stocks are currently green
“ENVIRONMENTCONSCIOUS PROPERTY BUYERS AND USERS ARE EMERGING. THE DEMAND FOR GREEN BUILDINGS IN MALAYSIA WILL CONTINUE TO RISE. – IR ASHWIN THURAIRAJAH
certified – unlike which are appro having certificat more than 10 ye The biggest h impression that expensive, whic is trying to dispe “If you apply certification stan passive design p construction cos that it is about g developers to or way and reducin In tropical co derived through suggested havin spaces and incor ventilation. He said inve
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C over Story
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DINGS FITS
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e Singapore and London oaching 40% to 60% – despite tion standards around for ears. hurdle has been the green buildings are ch is something that GreenRe el. y the principles in our ndards, especially the principle, it can lower the st,” said Ashwin, adding getting the architects and rient the building in the right ng the number of windows. ountries, heat gain is usually h the windows. Ashwin ng lesser air-conditioning rporating more natural
estors should not only
HOUSE BUYERS CAN MAKE OWN ASSESSMENT Environment-conscious individuals can check if a property has a valid green building certificate. All GreenRE projects have certification validity dates and are listed on the GreenRE website. According to Ashwin, a green building generally displays the following features:
• North-south orientation with openings and windows that promote cross ventilation.
• Reduced window area in the west and east facade to reduce heat gain.
• Use of energy-efficient air-conditioners and ceiling fans. • Energy-efficient LED lighting. • External shading devices over windows. • Lighter coloured paints on external façade. • Water-efficient fittings rated by Suruhanjaya Perkhidmatan Air Negara (SPAN).
• Higher green plot ratio: more greenery in open spaces with drought-tolerant plants.
• Presence of composting bins or stations. • The development encourages cycling, with the presence of bicycle parking and electric vehicle charging stations.
• Use of renewable energy devices. • Encourages the use of local products and recycled materials.
consider the current cost but the life-cycle savings as well. “Environment-conscious property buyers and users are emerging. The demand for green buildings in Malaysia will continue to rise,” he said, pointing out that in 10 to 15 years young people will demand green buildings as a minimum requirement. According to Ashwin, there has been an increase in registration for GreenRE certification. Encouragingly, professionals such as architects and mechanical-electrical engineers are also inquiring about it. He believes there is a shift in the right direction, albeit a slow one. “People are beginning to appreciate the cost savings in running a green building. We are getting more response from members of the public,” he said, adding that GreenRE has developed a user guide for converting abodes into green homes.
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STARPROPERTY.MY 08 MAY 2019
BEACON OF A LIVELY LOCALE Residensi Bintang Bukit Jalil stands tall within a sporty community
Residensi Bintang Bukit Jalil North Tower units come in three variations, Type A1, B and C, with built-ups from 805sf to 1,209sf from RM655 per sf.
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2020, eventually accommodating T the heart of a vibrant up to 3,500 students when fully neighbourhood renowned operational. for sports, entertainment For higher education, the and leisure, a towering International Medical University and hillside community rises – Residensi Bintang Bukit Jalil, which features two Asia-Pacific University of Technology and Innovation are a mere 7km away blocks housing 1,342 units. from Residensi Bintang Bukit Jalil. With a gross development value Other nearby amenities include of RM954.7mil, the project sits on 5.47 the Bukit Jalil City Mall, golf courses acres of leasehold land. and a lush recreational park. A stone’s The natural topography elevates throw away from the development is the property 15m above the main the Alam Sutera and Awan Besar LRT road, making it one of the highest stations, which provide the residents condominiums in the area. This of Bukit Jalil position gives comfortable residents of BESIDES ITS HIGH access to other some units LOCATION, RESIDENSI parts of the city. breathtaking BINTANG BUKIT JALIL IS Together views of the city SURROUNDED BY VIRTUALLY with these skyline, which is conveniences complemented EVERYTHING THAT are over 90 by the RESIDENTS NEED, EITHER facilities to Titiwangsa FOR DAILY LIVING, WORK encourage a Range. OR PLAY. more active and Besides its nature-engaging high location, lifestyle for all residents, ranging Residensi Bintang Bukit Jalil is from the indoor and alfresco gym, surrounded by virtually everything garden pool and aqua gym, game that residents need, either for daily room, reading nook, pavilion and the living, work or play—all within the sprawling Bintang Garden. convenience of a 10-kilometre radius. The prominent location of Young couples and first-time Residensi Bintang Bukit Jalil is home buyers will appreciate the reinforced by its easy access to five proximity of the Tzu Chi International major highways which are the LDP, School, a multi-lingual institution Kesas, Bukit Jalil Highway, MEX and offering educational services from Lebuhraya Kuala Lumpur-Seremban. kindergarten to secondary level. The Residensi Bintang Bukit Jalil is school is projected to attract about 600 scheduled for completion in 2022. students for its first intake in January
Residensi Bintang Bukit Jalil by LBS Bina Group features two towers with a total of 1,342 units.
The Builder's Playground is in a safe and engaging environment with wide open spaces.
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F eature
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08 MAY 2019
BUILDING A SUSTAINABLE FUTURE Green building rating systems ensure eco-friendly and quality construction
By HAKIM HASSAN hakim@thestar.com.my
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USTAINABILITY has been a key selling point or unique proposition when it comes to advertising a particular development or township. But what is it and how does it affect the construction process? According to the Green Building Index (GBI), a green building focuses on increasing the usage efficiency of resource – energy, water and materials – while reducing construction impact on people and the environment through better siting, design, operations, maintenance and removal. Green buildings are essentially liveable structures designed with the environment in mind. Worldwide, numerous associations and rating systems ensure that these buildings are eco-friendly. They include:
> Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED, United States) Started in 2000 by the US Green Building Council (USBGC), LEED is one of the most widely used green building rating systems in the world. It is available for all project types, from new construction to interior fit-outs and maintenance, providing a framework to create efficient and cost-saving buildings. According to the USBGC, more than 2.2mil sq ft is LEED certified every day with over 90,000 projects using this system. > Green Star (Australia) This rating system assesses the sustainable design, construction and operation of buildings, fit-outs and communities. According to its website, there are 2,000 Green Star-rated projects with 37% of office space being certified while 42,000 people live in Green Star apartments and 420,000 people are moving into Green Star communities.
to new developments or refurbishment schemes. It evaluates the procurement, design, construction and operation of a development against a range of targets based on performance benchmarks. Breeam focuses on sustainable value across a range of categories, namely energy, land use and ecology, water, health and well-being, pollution, transport, materials, and waste management.
> Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method (Breeam, UK) This assessment sets standards for the environmental performance of buildings through the design, specification, construction and operation phases, and can be applied
> Comprehensive Assessment System for Built Environment Efficiency (Casbee, Japan) In Asia, this system is used for evaluating and rating the environmental performance of buildings and their environment. Casbee was developed by a
MALAYSIA'S GBI REVIEW SYSTEM ENSURES THAT BUILDINGS IN THE COUNTRY ARE UP TO INTERNATIONAL STANDARDS AND OVERSEES THE REGULATION OF GREEN BUILDINGS.
research committee in 2001 through the collaboration of academia, industry, national and local governments which established the Japan Sustainable Building Consortium (JSBC) under the auspices of the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism. According to the Casbee website, was designed to enhance the quality of people’s lives as well as reduce the lifecycle resource use and environmental loads from a single home to a whole city. Consequently, various Casbee schemes are now deployed all over Japan. > Green Building Index (GBI, Malaysia) The GBI review system ensures that buildings in the country are up to
international standards and oversees the certification and regulation of green buildings. Greenbuildingindex Sdn Bhd was incorporated 10 years ago, as a whollyowned subsidiary of Persatuan Arkitek Malaysia (PAM) and the Association of Consulting Engineers Malaysia (Acem), to administer GBI accreditation and train GBI facilitators and certifiers. According to the GBI website, accreditation for buildings is separated into three tiers. At the highest level is the GBI Accreditation Panel, the independent regulatory body for GBI accreditation. At the intermediate level are the certifiers, consisting of experienced professionals who conduct the assessment and accreditation of project submissions. At the front end are the facilitators who work with clients and design team to enhance their projects to meet or exceed GBI rating requirements. The index is the industry’s recognised green rating tool for buildings to promote sustainability in the built environment and raise awareness among developers, architects, engineers, planners, designers, contractors and the public about environmental issues and our responsibility to future generations. The GBI rating tool provides an opportunity for developers and building owners to design and construct green, sustainable buildings that can provide energy savings, water savings, a healthier indoor environment, better connectivity to public transport and the adoption of recycling to reduce our impact on the environment. To ensure that developers adhere to the standard and to encourage them to construct more energy efficient and sustainable buildings, recent reports by the media have indicated that developers with GBI certification projects in Penang will be eligible for rebates on assessment fees and development charges until 2021. GBI has also worked with local financial institutions to offer preferential rates for buyers of GBIcertified homes.
STARPROPERTY.MY
S tarProperty.my Fair
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08 MAY 2019
SPECTACULAR PROPERTY CHOICES UNDER ONE ROOF everyone regardless of age. They will be a great experience for you and your little ones.
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tarProperty.my Fair 2019 is set to happen from 18th to 20th May, between 11am to 9pm in Exhibition Halls 2 & 3. A premier selection along with lucrative packages from some of Malaysia’s finest property developers will be showcased. Many exciting activities to inform, assist and enable visitors and buyers to achieve their home ownership dreams will also be featured. Additionally, a star-studded line-up of experts speaking on the subjects of property investment, interior designing, mortgage financing, feng-shui, town planning, and the property outlook for the 2nd half of 2019 will take place.
What’s more necessary than checking to know your credit score before purchasing your dream property? All you have to do is complete a survey during the fair and you will be eligible to check your CTOS score for free.
Mortgage consultation clinic: Complimentary mortgage application and debt management consultation clinic provided by a professional team of financial experts.
Win shopping vouchers and gift cards
Book a unit at the fair to enter the Homebuyer Lucky Draw and stand a chance to win gift cards, vouchers and cash rebates worth up to RM10,000. Take part in a lucky draw guessing activity and you could win shopping vouchers valued at RM500 and gift cards from 14 mystery brands.
Gifts just for showing up early
Set your alarm clock and be sure to be among the first 200 people at the fair to be a daily lucky winner. The first 100 visitors will get a redeemable petrol card and the subsequent 100 will be able to redeem a mystery gift from Midorie.
Unleash your inner child
Games and fun workshops for
STAND A CHANCE TO DRIVE HOME THE GRAND PRIZE OF A
PROTON X70 SUV
You could drive home a Proton X70
Buyers who book a unit at the fair will have a chance to drive home the grand prize of a Proton X70 SUV. There is no better time to book a unit as the HOC 2019 initiative will end on June 30. Along with the many opportunities to win gifts and rewards are free seminars and talks by a line-up of expert panellists tackling topics ranging from property investment, financing and property market to interior design, feng shui and good health credit scores. The StarProperty.my Fair 2019 will host many exhibitors with projects
for personal purchase as well as for rental and investment. Developers who will be at the fair include Cicet Asia Development Sdn Bhd, Gamuda Land, Hatten Properties Sdn Bhd, Land & General Bhd, Mah Sing Group Bhd, Matrix Concepts Holdings Bhd, Mayland, MK Land, Platinum Victory, Skyworld, Sri Setia Sdn Bhd, Sunsuria Bhd, Tiara Hills and Tropicana Corporation Bhd. For more information, visit https://fair. starproperty.my/
PARTICIPATING EXHIBITORS
By DAVEENA KAUR
Check your credit score for free
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08 MAY 2019
LUXURA LINK VILLAS UP NEXT Gamuda Land brings forward new launch in twentyfive.7 after good take-up
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OWN-maker Gamuda Land will launch the final phase of landed residences in twentyfive.7 at Kota Kemuning following good take-up of its first phase. Luxura’s two and three-storey link villas, featuring five layout types with built-ups from 2,605sf to 3,466sf, will be launched this month. The final phase sits on 36.52 acres and will comprise 315 units. “We originally planned to launch Luxura in 2021 but due to the good take-up of 80% in Lucent Residence, our first phase, we decided to bring it forward,” said twentyfive.7 general manager Chu Wai Lune, who credits the good take-up to Gamuda Land’s townmaking principles. “Buyers are attracted by our approach in which we think through the connectivity within the township so that the community can conveniently come together in this vibrant neighbourhood. “We planned the Quayside Mall by the lake with a promenade surrounded by a park, jogging and cycling track and greenery because we envision it to be the pulse of twentyfive.7. These are placed in the heart of town where the community converges and get to know one another as neighbours,” Chu explained, adding that the unique multi-façade designed homes and their interior are among reasons why people are attracted to this town.
Communities drive townships “As a responsible town-maker, we are creating a place for everybody,” said Chu. “A good town is a place where people can call home. It’s about people and diversity; they can be growing families, retirees, young couples and single adults.” Beyond just a home, Gamuda Land focuses on the environment that brings people closer together and ultimately forms a community that look out for each other. Embracing place-making, the developer activates public spaces within its townships to cultivate and develop thoughtful relationships among residents. The Buzz.ar at twentyfive.7 was created with this in mind. Comprising The Lake, The Loop, and The Field, The Buzz.ar has hosted various community events, notably the Quayside Fiesta which has become popular among Kota Kemuning and its surrounding areas. The Lake is where a waterscape with a musical fountain called Aurora Rhythms is installed and will be open to the public this month. Encircling this tuneful lake is The Loop, a 600m circuit that acts as a jogging or biking trail for the community. It is a safe park for people and their furry friends. The Loop itself is also
Quayside Mall and The Buzz.ar were planned as places for people to get together.
part of a larger effort by the developer to create seamless connectivity from the home to the park and the Quayside Mall. The Field comprises a FIFA-sized football field and three futsal courts operated by Footballhub that houses Football Talent Asia, a professional Malaysian Football Academy which runs multiple programmes and tournaments to develop grassroots talent.
Empowering a healthy community Being part of the twentyfive.7 community has many perks. Homes will be equipped with a customised MaxisONE Home fibre plan with speeds of up to 300Mbps. Residents will benefit from fixed and mobile offerings and immediately enjoy high-resolution streaming, simultaneous device usage, lag-free gaming, seamless video calls and more. The customised plan – which comes bundled with unlimited iflix access at home and mobile, unlimited free domestic calls to all mobile and landlines and a DECT phone – will be free for residents for two years from activation. Buyers of Luxura will also receive two complimentary gym memberships for 24 months upon signing of the sale and purchase agreement. With this membership, they can enjoy access to any of the 48 Celebrity Fitness, CHi Fitness and Fitness First gym and wellness outlets nationwide. The Quayside Mall, scheduled to open next year, will meet the
lifestyle and entertainment needs of twentyfive.7’s first group of residents. It will house tenants such as MBO Cinemas, Jaya Grocer, various F&B and retail outlets, a clinic as well as wellness centres. Now, buyers will be able to predetermine the specifications of their Luxura homes through Gamuda Land’s website gamudaland.com.my/ glcreations. GL Creations allows customers to be involved in the creation of their homes by selecting certain specifications such as colour theme and tiles before signing the sale and purchase agreement. The website depicts photos of furnished
properties from which prospective buyers can envisage their ideal lifestyle in homes that are yet to be built. Luxura show units will be officially launched on 11 & 12 May 4pm to 10pm. For more information, visit twentyfive.7 property gallery or call 012-257 2527.
BEING PART OF TWENTYFIVE.7 COMMUNITY HAS MANY PERKS. BUYERS OF LUXURA WILL RECEIVE TWO COMPLIMENTARY GYM MEMBERSHIPS FOR EVERY UNIT UPON SIGNING OF THE SALE AND PURCHASE AGREEMENT.
Buyers will be able to pre-determine the specifications of their Luxura homes through GL Creations.