SPECIAL PULLOUT SUNDAY 15 FEBRUARY 2015
EXPERIENCE THE
WONDERS WITHIN
TROPICANA SPECIAL FEATURE
STARPROPERTY.MY SUNDAY 15 FEBRUARY 2015
02
Growing In Strength: Innovation & Quality
Over 20 years of experience in the property development scene has led to the extraordinary award-winning company that Tropicana Group is now known for.
REDEFINING THE ART OF LIV VING A Distinctive Premier Developer
Stories by CAITLYN NG LI YUIN liyuin@ocision.com
W
ITH shades of green that inspire ideas of nature and growth, as well as the distinctive “T/Tree” mark, Tropicana Corporation Berhad (“Tropicana” or “Group”) is no stranger in the property arena. Their name is renowned as one of the leading property developers in Malaysia and their brand is synonymous with innovative designs and quality. Each year-end marks another important milestone in their continuous commitment to putting their customers’ needs from over 22 countries at the forefront of what they do. A transformation from a mid-tier developer into one with an impressive track record, Tropicana has managed to reap many prestigious industry awards under their belt. Their strategy for success, although straightforward, is by no means simple; offering premium locations, innovative building concepts and natural living quality to the customers. Tropicana’s humble beginnings was in 1992, when they launched the exclusive 252.9-hectare Tropicana Golf & Country Resort and the 165.5-hectare Tropicana Indah Resort Homes. Back then, they were known as Dijaya Corporation Berhad, and they had pioneered the concept of resort-style living residential property developments. From then on, the name “Tropicana” has grown exponentially until it became the Group’s signature, and many of the successive developments proudly carry the Tropicana brand name. After a large scale of successful ventures, the Group was propelled to new heights when they were registered on the Main Board of Bursa Malaysia. Since then, there was no looking back as the Group consistently evolved dynamically, powered their way into new frontiers and set new DNA to redefine the art of living. However, success in the Klang Valley wasn’t the only thing on Tropicana’s plate; they sought to expand their geographical reach and scope to other prime locations in Penang, Johor Baru and Sabah. Their involvement in development goes beyond that of buildings or structural works; they also believe in making a vital contribution to the landscape, to the communities and to the environment as a whole.
The Group remains committed to meeting the needs of the present without compromising the future of generations to come. Tropicana has also recently entered into an agreement with the renowned global education group, GEMS Education, to develop a school campus in the 35.6-hectare integrated development Tropicana Metropark in Subang Jaya, Selangor. It will house an integrated international school offering foundation to primary and secondary stages of learning. In addition, Tropicana has also agreed to build an international school, SJI International, a stone’s throw from its signature Klang Valley developments, Tropicana Golf & Country Resort in Petaling Jaya. The fundamental focus for their ever-growing portfolio would be the cutting-edge concepts. The strategy sets out to fulfil three main criteria, namely: unlocking the value of the sizable landbank, seeking out opportunities with strategic partners to accelerate growth and implementing de-gearing initiatives to further strengthen the balance sheet. Tropicana is poised on the brink of a new and exciting growth, fuelled by its strong development presence in Malaysia. Their current land bank stands at approximately 728.4 hectares with a future GDV (gross development value) of over RM50bil and continuing to unlock the potential of their land bank with focus on their ongoing developments. They are also setting their sights on further lands, as they look to extend their collaboration and partnership with more regional partners by expanding into international markets such as China, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Indonesia and Singapore. Having said that, they have recently launched offices in China, Singapore and Japan, with vested business interests that are diversified so that they are prepared to embrace 2015 with a host of strategic insights and innovative marketing initiatives. In the words of Tropicana Group’s founder and group executive vice chairman Tan Sri Datuk Danny Tan Chee Sing, “I have understood the real meaning of standing the test of time, and working towards achieving the Group’s goals. We will continue to redefine the art of living by introducing innovative products that will appeal to buyers and cater to market demands."
STARPROPERTY.MY SUNDAY 15 FEBRUARY 2015
03 TROPICANA SPECIAL FEATURE Jewels In The Pipeline
1
2
These gems are looking set to amaze and delight the public once fully completed, with each and every one of these developments offering nothing but the finest in holistic living.
T
HE Tropicana brand is highly recognisable anywhere, and their aim is to not only build high-quality and desirable product offerings, but ultimately to build communities and reinvigorate the surrounding areas. Ever since the launch of Tropicana Golf & Country Resort ("TGCR"), the Group then went on to diversify into Tropicana City Integrated Development, Tropicana Indah Resort Homes, and a string of other innovative developments across the three regions. We see that the Group has been busy creating new high-quality wonders that will meet the needs and wants of their customers. There are already several key projects currently in their pipeline.
3
4
1
The latest project in the Klang Valley is Tropicana Metropark that is a mixed development. Offering courtyard villas, serviced residences, retail shops, business suites, SOHO, office towers, a shopping mall, a medical centre and the GEMS International School.
2
With a prime location in the heart of Petaling Jaya that is in close proximity to TGCR is Tropicana Avenue, which continues to fulfil the resort-themed ambience with retail shops, office suites and serviced residences.
3 5
6
Parkfield Residences is the second phase in the Tropicana Heights development, located at the former site of Kajang Hill Golf & Country Club. It is a class of its own, offering terrace homes and link semi-Ds in a gated and guarded environment for peace of mind.
4
One of them is Tropicana Gardens, sited at the strategic location of Persiaran Surian, and is an integrated community of serviced residence towers, a shopping mall, proposed hotel and office suites. There is a direct connection between the development and the Surian MRT station.
5
Next up is Tropicana The Residences, comprising 353 units, and sits on top of Malaysia’s 1st W Hotel in Kuala Lumpur.
6
An integrated waterfront development, Tropicana Danga Bay in Iskandar Malaysia in Johor, seamlessly connects all the lifestyle aspects you could possibly want: shopping mall, serviced residences and integrated mix development.
7
8
7
The final jewel in the pipeline is Tropicana Danga Cove, located in Iskandar, Johor. Within the development can be found various aspects such as commercial, office and retail units as well as premium residential components.
8
For those looking for ease of conducting businesses effectively, the Tropicana Business Park at Nusajaya, Iskandar Malaysia incorporates retail, commercial and industrial units all under one roof.
9
Another gem in Penang is the Tropicana 218 Macalister, located along the famous Macalister Road. Touted to offer contemporary living in a heritage setting, expect to see a blend of hotel rooms together with the serviced residences, Neo Suites, as well as retail units.
10 9
10
Up north, there is Penang WorldCity, a sea fronting development that is located at Bayan Mutiara in Bayan Lepas. Poised to become an international gateway for foreign tourists and investors to Penang, there are residential condominiums, office suites, retail units and SOHO.
TROPICANA SPECIAL FEATURE
STARPROPERTY.MY SUNDAY 15 FEBRUARY 2015
04
Tropicana’s Unique DNA
I
N the ever-shifting landscape of today's modern world, there has been a need for companies to set themselves apart from one another, and that is exactly what Tropicana Group set out to do.
will give them an edge in designing and developing modern contemporary homes; the types which are able to meet the needs and wants of discerning homebuyers.
They have successfully crafted a unique DNA that focuses on the aspects of accessibility and connectivity, innovative concepts and designs, generous open spaces, amenities and facilities, multitiered security and quality.
With a strong commitment to the DNA that has been embedded into their core values, Tropicana is thus able to command premium prices and enjoy high appreciation value on its developments. This advantage stems from the embodiment of a strong brand identity, with added emphasis on their customers' needs.
This established DNA is what has truly set the Group apart from their competitors. The approach that they have taken
A company's brand is always their most distinctive facet, which people tend to remember them by. As such, the Group had
Accessibility and Connectivity The factor of accessibility and connectivity is made possible by investing in major infrastructure such as flyover links to expressways. This creates a direct and easy link to the nearest public transport, and providing plenty of strategic ingress and exit points. Tropicana makes sure no efforts are spared in ensuring a convenient access to all their developments.
Innovative Designs and Concepts At the heart of each development is a unique and inspired aesthetics for the buildings that allow for each to become stand-out individual landmarks in its own locations. This is the essence of the innovative designs and concepts factor, where the principle elements of each development is captured.
in mind the need for them to create a strong brand value that encompasses the DNA. They undertook a rebranding exercise in 2013 in order to focus and capitalise on a strong brand value. They took on the trade name of Tropicana Corporation Berhad and with that, sought to revolutionise the company into a premier property developer in Malaysia. In a nutshell, Tropicana is committed in creating ideal and thriving townships that are strategic and holistic in nature. The founder and Group Executive Vice Chairman of Tropicana Group, Tan Sri Datuk Danny Tan Chee Sing, summed it up in his own words "...because life is to be enjoyed."
STARPROPERTY.MY SUNDAY 15 FEBRUARY 2015
05 TROPICANA SPECIAL FEATURE
Generous Open Spaces
Amenities and Facilities
Generous open spaces that promote healthier living and an enhanced quality of life overall is paramount as it stands by the Group’s commitment to building communities that are not only beneficial for the residents, but for the environment as well. Lush central parks, a key theme in many of their developments, are integrated with wide open spaces to allow for a natural balance of work and play.
Residents are promised only the best of world-class amenities and facilities, where everything they could possibly want and need are included. Some of them include international schools, swimming pools, central parks, playgrounds, gymnasiums and many more.
Multi-tiered Security
Quality
The safety of their residents are at the forefront of each development’s planning, as several layers of security are incorporated into the projects for peace of mind. 24-hour patrol, CCTVs, guardhouses, and card access are just some of the services which can be found.
Last but not least, the detailed and committed attention of Tropicana Group to the quality of the buildings rounds up the development DNA. The materials which have been carefully selected as well as the choice of branded fittings and finishings all come together to showcase the harmonious balance between great architectural concepts and classy interior designs.
TROPICANA SPECIAL FEATURE
STARPROPERTY.MY SUNDAY 15 FEBRUARY 2015
06
Seizing Golden Opportunities: Projects in Klang Valley
Home to millions of residents, Klang Valley is certainly a well-known location; The multiple luxurious developments helmed by Tropicana Group is testament to its popularity.
Tropicana Metropark This ambitious integrated development is the latest brainchild to come from Tropicana Group, and sits atop an elevated piece of freehold land measuring 35.6 hectares. Offering a unique blend of residential, commercial, retail, shopping, medical and GEMS International School, the crowning jewel in Tropicana Metropark’s luscious landscape is the 3.7-hectare Central Park. This project is located in the established neighbourhood of Subang Jaya and with a direct link flyover from Federal Highway, with an expected completion date of 2016. Currently, there are two chic residential components which were created to entice the senses with promises of privacy and modern luxury:
Pandora Serviced Residences The first in line is the two-towers of serviced residences called Pandora. Designed with the idea of outdoor greenery and leisure facilities seamlessly incorporating with the indoors, a specially crafted “greenscape” design was created to showcase how the unexpected can become the new norm. Built-up ranges from 599 – 1,288sq ft with a total of 627 units. Paloma Serviced Residences Following in the successful footsteps of its predecessor, the second phase Paloma combines two towers of serviced residences with 16 exclusive courtyard villas in one beautiful setting. Using carefully planned angular aesthetics to ensure an unobstructed view of the grand Central Park, the usage of natural lighting is also emphasised. Built-up of 609 – 1,309sq ft for the serviced residences and 2,400 – 2,588sq ft for the courtyard villas.
The Tropicana GEMS Education cooperation is expected to see the creation of a world-class international school competing with some of the world’s best schools.
Tropicana Avenue Continuing the Group’s development DNA of conceiving a resort-themed ambience is the Tropicana Avenue project, located in close proximity to the renowned TGCR as well as retail outlets. Set on 2.3 hectares of prime land, one of the special features of this development is its amazing connection to major highways and expressways. Positioned to become the heart and pulse of the exclusive neighbourhood, there will be shopping, dining, entertainment, business and residential features all conveniently integrated into one complete contemporary complex.
STARPROPERTY.MY SUNDAY 15 FEBRUARY 2015
Tropicana Heights A 80.5-hectare master plan that was brilliantly brought to life to develop a wholesome lifestyle for its residents in an urban delight, Tropicana Heights is sited in an idyllic and tranquil part of Kajang. A 6.5-hectare Central Park with a 750-meter linear lake lies nestled in the centre of the freehold development, creating a welcoming environment that is ideal for a nourishing and hearty way of life.
07 TROPICANA SPECIAL FEATURE
There will be a direct link from Persiaran Bangi to this project, with an expected completion date of 2017. There is also a MRT/KTM hub located merely 4km away. Parkfield Residences The second residential phase offers both terrace homes and link semi-Ds with built-ups of 2,203 – 2,977sq ft. There is an open plan living concept that allows for residents to experience life as a whole, and the roofs have a dynamic flat design to set them apart from the rest. This is a gated and guarded community and there is a 1.9 hectare private community park, allowing the residents to enjoy their time with loved ones together in privacy.
International school SJI International is a stone’s throw from its signature Klang Valley developments, Tropicana Golf & Country Resort in Petaling Jaya.
Tropicana Gardens Another development that is poised to become the epicentre of a bustling thriving community is Tropicana Gardens, sited at the strategic location of Persiaran Surian. The main drawing factor is the direct link to an elevated Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) station, adding a whole new level of convenience to its already advantageous accessibility via main highways. Its glittering façade will reveal serviced residence towers, a shopping mall, hotel and office suites, all anchored by a thematic metropolitan garden. For visitors looking forward to the one million sq ft shopping mall, they will be delighted to know that it is further complemented by a chic alfresco F&B strip, infusing a sense of glamour and charm. Following in the highly successful footsteps of its predecessors Arnica and Bayberry, the 3rd phase is known as Cyperus Serviced Residences. This is the first tower that comes with luxurious fully furnished units, ensuring that it is in move-in condition to alleviate the stress and complications that usually accompany renovations and home improvements. The architects of this project weaved nature into design, allowing for the units (built-ups from 600 – 1,404sq ft) to be spacious and comfortable yet green and trendy.
TROPICANA SPECIAL FEATURE
STARPROPERTY.MY SUNDAY 15 FEBRUARY 2015
08
Diamonds In The Rough: Projects In Johor Baru
Johor Baru is carving a name for itself in the international property market and what better way to capitalise on this positive growth than with world-class developments designed to maximise and unleash its full potential. Tropicana Danga Bay Towering high above the skyline and commanding spectacular views of the waterfront lies the Tropicana Danga Bay. This is a development that is ensconced on 15 hectares of prime freehold land in the heart of Zone A, Iskandar Malaysia, Johor. There will be several lifestyle properties and commercial spaces that are all seamlessly connected through its unique sky walkways to bring together all the finer things in life. There will also be a one million sq ft luxury brand shopping mall, SOHO and a twohectare waterfront central park. In addition, it is also directly accessible via a network of roads that will allow residents and visitors to visit the Johor Baru city centre in five minutes, Singapore in 10 minutes or Legoland and Hello Kitty Town in 15 minutes. Tropez Residences Being a part of the Tropicana Danga Bay development in the “Vision City of the South”, there are three towers in the Tropez Residences that are interconnected via sky bridges and two open-air sky lounges. For the discerning buyers, they will be spoilt for choice with 1,149 units of differing sizes, ranging from 463 – 1,790sq ft. Complete with breathtaking views of the Singapore skyline, as well as full amenities and facilities, residents can be assured of living in the lap of luxury.
1
2
3
Bora Residences Some of the more unique designs can be found here at Bora Residences; these include duplexes with double volume ceilings, bay windows and dual key concepts, as well as world-class penthouses with private pools. Built-up is from 694 – 3,443sq ft. When these units are coupled with first-class facilities and a resort-like ambience, there is undoubtedly an air of elegance, catering to the premium lifestyles of its residents.
4 Oasis 2, Tropicana Danga Cove Dazzling lights, elegant decor and a warm atmosphere all come together in a stately development that is situated on a 112.1-hectare freehold land. There are multiple aspects consisting of commercial, retail, offices and residential. All the components come with stylishly contemporary designs to suit today’s modern demands, and some such as the four-storey units have their own private lifts and ample parking spaces. The Oasis 2, Tropicana Danga Cove is a fully integrated self-contained garden-themed township spanning 91.9 hectares. Since it is within the vicinity of townships that are already established, there is a ready catchment population of 500,000. With an entire host of full amenities to cater to every whim and fancy, Oasis 2 looks set to become a bustling commercial hub exclusively for business opportunities to thrive. Expect to see retail, food and beverage, banks, budget hotels, medical services, education services and office spaces. Built-up of the units are 5,040 – 10,080sq ft.
5 1 One of the masterplans brought to life is the Tropicana Danga Bay, with breathtaking views of the waterfront and a highly strategic location. 2 The front entrance leading to the Tropez Residences. 3 The stunning double volume ceilings of one of the duplexes in Bora Residences. 4 Another masterplan is the Tropicana Danga Cove, which not only has multiple lifestyle aspects, but also plays host to the Meetings Incentives Conferencing and Exhibition (MICE) centre. 5 Townships with a complete range of amenities are hard to come by, but The Oasis 2 proves that it is capable of meeting the needs and demands of various businesses.
STARPROPERTY.MY SUNDAY 15 FEBRUARY 2015
09 TROPICANA SPECIAL FEATURE
The Pearl of The Orient: Projects In Penang
With such a striking name, the island that is rich in heritage and culture is given a new look, with splendid new developments that will give a breath of new life to the archipelago. Tropicana 218 Macalister The name Macalister Road evokes bygone memories of old-world romance and if one has dreamt of owning a property on this famous road, look no further than the Tropicana 218 Macalister. With such a strategic location, it won’t be hard to miss as it rises majestically on a 0.8-hectare piece of freehold land, gleaming and a symbol of quiet majesty. The design and layout are in vogue, while the surroundings speak of a precious heritage,
thus showcasing how modernity can be fused with tradition. The development is also near to eateries, Penang’s world renowned hawker stalls, major shopping centres, and right at the centre of the Georgetown business district. No longer will residents have to travel long distances in order to reach amenities as everything is conveniently right at their doorstep. Be welcomed to a gorgeous contemporary lifestyle living with 200 hotel rooms together with 211 units of the Neo Suites. There are also 20 retail units and 88 units of serviced residences.
2
1 Elegant decor and tasteful designs await each unit owner of the exclusive Neo Suites. 2 The glittering towers of Tropicana 218 Macalister, which house the Neo Suites and Malaysia’s first Courtyard Hotel by Marriott International Inc.
1
3 Penang WorldCity, a mega hub that is set to become an international gateway for locals, foreign tourists and investors once fully completed. 4 The beautiful elevated facilities deck located at the Tropicana Bay Residences, surrounded by pocket parks and lush greenery.
Tropicana Bay Residences, Penang WorldCity Penang WorldCity is an ambitious, world-class, mega seafront development located at Bayan Mutiara in Bayan Lepas. If the sheer size doesn’t capture your attention, its location near the landmark Penang Bridge surely will as you drive past the iconic gateway into the island. Spread out over 41.3 hectares of prime freehold land, it has all the great infrastructure and amenities needed and is poised to become an international gateway for the locals, foreign tourists and investors once it is completed. Having easy access to vital locations such as the Penang International Airport, the Bayan Lepas Free Trade Zone and Queensbay Mall only adds to the immense attraction that this project holds. Promising serviced residences, luxury condominium, office tower, retail plaza, shopping mall, medical centre, international hotel and international school, the first component launched is the Tropicana Bay Residences. With a total of 1,248 units with a built-up of 455 – 1.945sq ft, this is a project of six residential towers surrounded by pocket parks and lush greenery, to create a serene living environment. There are even green belts surrounding the residences to separate them from the main streets. Come home to exclusive tranquillity.
3 3
4
4
STARPROPERTY.MY SUNDAY 15 FEBRUARY 2015
10
TROPICANA SPECIAL FEATURE
2014 Awards And Recognition
Success is so much sweeter when shared amongst the people who helped to make it happen, and these awards showcase how Tropicana Group’s commitment to quality shines forth.
O
VER the years, the Tropicana Group has been winning award after coveted award at multiple important events, all of which are clear testaments of Tropicana’s commitment to high-quality developments that are still environmentally friendly. Below one will find a comprehensive list of their achievements adding to the pride of their brand name.
1
Quadruple Win at the Asia Pacific Property Awards 2014
2
Silver Award Win at the PAM Awards 2014
3
BCI Asia Top 10 Developers Award Win 2014
4
Not one, not two, but four awards were won on the night of May 9 by the Tropicana Group at the Asia Pacific Property Awards 2014. Held at the Shangri-La Hotel, Kuala Lumpur, this was an event to celebrate the highest levels of achievement by companies operating in all sectors of the property and real estate industry. The Group took home the Highly Commended Award for Commercial Landscape Architecture, Malaysia (Tropicana Metropark); the highest five-star rating for Best Retail Development, Malaysia (Tropicana Gardens); the Highly Commended Award for Mixed-Use Development, Malaysia (Tropicana Danga Bay’s Master Plan); and finally the highest five-star rating for the Best Commercial ugh-rise Development, Malaysia (Tropicana 218 Macalister).
On May 25, Tropicana Metropark was honoured with a Silver Award win at the biannual PAM (Pertubuhan Arkitek Malaysia) Awards. This event is Malaysia’s highest recognition for architectural excellence made by architects, clients or owners, and builders or contractors for their contributions in design quality and built environment.
For Tropicana Group’s role as a key industry player in the property industry and the many social and environmental contributions which were made, they reaped the coveted Top 10 Developers Award on June 13 2014. This awards ceremony is a regional event that was attended by the industry’s top architects and building professionals from Hong Kong SAR, Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam.
The Edge Billion Ringgit Club Award 2014 During the illustrious Billion Ringgit Club Award by The Edge on Aug 11, Tropicana Group won one of the 25 corporate awards given to 22 companies: the Notable Achievement Award 2014 for the highest growth profit in the property and REIT segment. The event recognises companies with a market capitalisation of RM1bil and above as of March 31 each year.
STARPROPERTY.MY SUNDAY 15 FEBRUARY 2015
5
Five Accolades at the South East Asia Property Awards 2014
6
Entrepreneur of the Year at the Asia Pacific Entrepreneurship Awards 2014
An exciting time was witnessed on Aug 26 at the inaugural South East Asia Property Awards 2014 when Tropicana Group took home five recognitions for their excellence in property development and CSR initiatives. The awards were Best CSR Developer, for their outstanding corporate social responsibility initiatives; Best Commercial Architectural Design and Highly Recommended Best Luxury Condo Development for Tropicana Avenue; Best Housing Landscape Architectural Design and Highly Recommended Best Housing Development for Tropicana Heights.
For this win on Aug 26, it was Tan Sri Datuk Danny Tan, founder and Group Executive Vice Chairman of Tropicana Group, who bagged the prestigious award for Entrepreneur of the Year at the Asia Pacific Entrepreneurship Awards (APEA). During this regional award ceremony held at the Grand Hyatt Hotel, 38 of Malaysia’s finest entrepreneurs were honoured for outstanding entrepreneurship in their respective industry.
7
Double Win at The Edge Property Excellence Awards 2014
8
Diamond of Excellence Award at The Tatler Awards 2014
9
Best High Rise Development Win at iProperty People’s Choice Awards 2014
On Sept 13, at The Edge Property Excellence Awards 2014, the Group won two accolades which were The Edge Malaysia Notable Achievement Award 2014 as well as gaining the 6th rank in the Top Property Developer in Malaysia. These achievements were due to the impressive record sales of RM2.16bil, record revenue of RM1.48bil for its last financial year ended Dec 31, 2013 and its rebranding initiative.
Once again, Tan Sri Datuk Danny Tan made positive headlines. On Nov 1 2014, he is the lauded recipient of Malaysia Tatler’s Diamond of Excellence award for his valuable contributions to the property industry and community.
The year 2014 ended on a high note when the Tropicana Metropark development (first and second phase of Pandora and Paloma respectively) won the Best High Rise Development Category at the iProperty People’s Choice Awards on Nov 2. During the event, Tropicana was also nominated in five other categories, which were Developer of the Year, Best Luxury and Landed Development, Best Landed Development, Best Township of the Year and Best Integrated Development.
11 TROPICANA SPECIAL FEATURE
12 Starspecial
Sunday 15 February 2015