www.starproperty.my StarProperty.my StarProperty StarPropertyTV
07 FEB 2018 WEDNESDAY
StarProperty.my (Eng) Property Trends (Chi)
A modern and Green PJ midtown Three prominent developers incorporate eco-friendly features that will help improve business performance. > P04
INSIDE THIS ISSUE
aBC seeking a more balanced lifestyle
Rustic Ipoh city has much to offer > P06
Understanding joint loans Does it take two to tango? > P07
aMA what’s on your mind? A platform to post queries on all things property > P13
OLD IS THE FOUNDATION FOR NEW Win a StarProperty.my Calendar 2018 > P24
02 07 FEBRUARY 2018
STARPROPERTY.MY
Events highlights
make time thIS cny to build trust
www.starproperty.my StarProperty.my StarProperty StarPropertyTV
Editorial editor@starproperty.my Assistant General Manager ERNEST TOWLE ernest@thestar.com.my Content Coordinator Lee Yan Li lylee@thestar.com.my Content Writer Lee Yan Li Viknesh Ashley Hakim Hassan Ng Pau Ling Aisyah Suwardi Tharmini Kenas eION bRIAN TOWLE Nirmelraj V Muthu Video Producer JONATHAN ROBERTS Video Editor Pamela Fong Pei Le Designer Kwong Chee Oon Queeny Yong Nurul Aida Tajudin
I
n these hectic times, it is difficult to determine who is comships and add value to your live and the lives of others. Not ing or going. Work, personal commitments, endless toonly will this be a life worth living but also a life that matBy do lists and life in general take up most, if not all, of ters. Likewise, wealth does not suddenly materialise. The our waking hours. Ernest Towle Weekends, when they finally arrive, are fleeting and passive wealth of tomorrow comes from the conscious sacmore often than not packed with events and social acrifice of today. To build an empire tomorrow, you need start with a simple intivities. vestment today and then follow-up consistently. Scarce resources exact Time is indeed fleeting. Like grains of sand in an hourglass, time better yield over the long term when they become scarcer – like great passes without waiting for man or woman. Knowing this is important not only because it concerns the finiteaddresses in a mature community. For this Chinese New Year, putting everything else on hold (includness of life but also that it serves as a reminder to all that none will be spared the moving hands of time. ing the cell phone) and spending the reunion dinner fully engaged in Wishing for more time or for the wheels of time to turn backwards every conversation around the table will only strengthen and empower is not only tragic but impossible. Once spent, time never re-emerges. family relationships, and therefore enable the Year of the Dog to bark So seize the moment, and make the best of it. more enthusiastically for everyone. Take your time to build trust, grow relationships, enhance friendHappy Chinese New Year!
StarProperty.my Events Highlights Ask Me Anything StarProperty.my is launching the “Ask Me Anything” series where readers can email their queries about all things property to editor@ starproperty.my.
02
01
Are you allowed to renovate your condo?
No Bumiquota on freehold property?
ASK
ME
03
The use of the common area in a flat?
ANYTHING
MARKETING & SALEs Head of Customer Engagement & Support Ivy Leong 03 7967 1347 ivyleong@thestar.com.my
How to extend real estate ownership to the spouse?
StarProperty.my Buyers’ Sentiment Survey Report The latest survey by StarProperty.my aimed at gauging public sentiment on the housing market is now available. Log on to bit.ly/Propwallebook to download a free e-copy today!
Start your 2018 with a new calendar by StarProperty.my! Turn to page 24 to see how you can win yourself one.
Latest happenings
Property Business Head of Sales JAMES OOI jamesooi@thestar.com.my
campaign gives purchasers easy entry with 0% down-payment, various financial fees waived and additional savings with a variety of smart investment plans. All purchases during this campaign period will also stand a chance to win RM20,188 in cash.
Acting Head, Sales (Agent Business) Kent Thew 03 7967 1388 (ext 1861) kentthew@thestar.com.my
Sime Darby Property launches Azira in Bandar Bukit Raja
Download E-mag at:
The way home
Sime Darby Property recently launched its latest residential development, Azira in Bandar Bukit Raja, which has achieved over 70% take-up rate recorded over a weekend. The development comprises 111 units of 20ft x 75ft double-storey link homes with built-up areas of 1,901 sq ft to 2,275 sq ft, and with four bedrooms and four bathrooms. Azira offers freehold ownership and the completion date is slated for January 2020.
StarProperty.my (English)
Property Trends (Chinese)
OSK Property celebrates new year with '20188' campaign OSK Property Holdings Bhd celebrated the new year with the launch of the company’s ‘20188 Zero Entry’ campaign recently. This
with the festive occasion, potential buyers of Aera Residence in Petaling Jaya were also treated to a one-day promotion with attractive cash rebates.
Sunsuria holds CNY lucky draw for customers In celebration of the coming lunar new year, Sunsuria Bhd recently rewarded its customers at the “Celebration of Winners” event at the Celebration Centre in Sunsuria City. The event was the culmination of Sunsuria’s ‘Spin & Win with Sunsuria’s online campaign that ran from Sept 1 to Jan 20, offering RM25,000 worth of prizes to lucky homebuyers.
CNY treat at property gallery for potential homebuyers To usher in good luck and prosperity for the lunar new year, Chin Hin Property Development kicked off its celebrations with a lion dance performance at its property gallery at Kuchai Lama, Kuala Lumpur. In conjunction
Gamuda Land previews The Amber Residence Gamuda Land recently previewed its first high-rise, The Amber Residence, at the grand opening of twenty.five7 in Kota Kemuning. Spread across 4.8 acres, The Amber Residence is twentyfive.7’s first high-rise with an estimated gross development value of RM313mil featuring 596 units of serviced apartments. The development has two 30-storey towers above a two-storey podium with 32 units retail shops.
STARPROPERTY.MY
07 FEBRUARY 2018
03
Advertorial
riverwalk icon takes shape Botanika serves as a gateway to Singapore as well as up north to Kuala Lumpur
c
overing 12 acres of prime residential land in Iskandar Waterfront City (IWCity) is the riverwalk development of Botanika, which is situated along Sg Tebrau in Johor. The development in Permas Jaya, Plentong, serves as a gateway to Singapore through Johor Baru and up north to Kuala Lumpur. Being in the city centre, this development has great connectivity as well as proximity to mature neighbourhoods and amenities such as shopping malls, international schools and a medical centre. Botanika comprises three towers that offer a total of 792 condominium units; two of the towers have been launched. Forty Townvillas within this phase were launched recently. The third tower will have 264 units and is expected to be launched in the near future. Current products by IWCity include Botanika, Danga Sutera and a joint-ventrue development with Greenland dubbed Helios Cove. Botanika is targeted at first-time homeowners, medium-size families, those who commute daily to Singapore for work as well as Singaporeans looking for a home in Johor Baru. On offer are six acres of lush greenery, two to three car parks per unit, and plenty of living space because the development
Botanika will cover 12 acres and consist of three towers offering a total of 792 condominium units.
only allows a maximum of 70 units per acre. Spacious Type A, Type B and Type C units are available in sizes ranging from 1,126 sq ft to 1,488 sqft. All the layouts accommodate three to four bedrooms and an en suite bathroom, except for the largest of the three configurations which comes with a dual-key option. Homebuyers will be delighted to know that their abodes come partially furnished with air-conditioned rooms and living areas, wardrobes in all bedrooms, a kitchen equipped with cabinets, cooker hob and hood, as well as shower screen, laminated flooring and even a Smart Home System.
The Townvillas come in three spacious layouts, from 3,237 sq ft to 4,021 sq ft.
The riverwalk development of Botanika is situated along Sg Tebrau iin Johor Baru.
There are over 20 facilities within Botanika. On the ground level of the development, residents will find a grand entrance, children’s playground and green lung. Most of the the facilities are to be found above the car park level, including a gourmet kitchen, open dining area, games room, children’s playground, swimming pool, jacuzzi, gym, surau, changing room and toilets. In addition, a Zen Garden, open plaza, wading pool, BBQ area, covered dining area, and tennis court are on the Above: Botanika podium level. is close to mature neighbourhoods For added security, the development and amenities will incorporate a 24-hour security pasuch as shopping trol service with CCTV monitoring at malls, international strategic locations. Heightened security schools, and a medical centre. features are made possible through the Smart Home System available in every home within Botanika. Getting to and from Botanika will Botanika is easy. The have a 24-hour waterfront homes are security patrol located just 5km from service with the Johor Central Business District and the CCTV monitoring Customs, Immigration, at strategic and Quarantine Comlocations. plex (CIQ). The property enjoys Heightened direct connectivity to security features the Eastern Dispersal are made possible Link and North-South through the Smart highway to the north Melaka and Kuala Home System (for Lumpur). available in every As for access to home within the Singapore, residents development. can choose to enter the country through the Woodland Checkpoint which is a mere 8km from Botanika. Iskandar Waterfront Holdings (IWH) owns 37.32% of the up-and-coming township of IWCity. The company is hoping to diversify Left: For buyers who its operations and goals by actively lookrequire more living ing for joint venture partners to further space, Botanika develop its land banks as well as other offers 40 Townvillas opportunities related to the property that have already been launched. industry.
04
STARPROPERTY.MY WEDNESDAY 07FEBRUARY 2018
cover story
Artist's impression of PJ Midtown, a mixed development that covers 5.5 acres of commercial and residential components.
Artist impression
A modern and Green PJ midtown
Three prominent developers incorporate eco-friendly features that will help improve business performance
F
INDING the best location is vital to any business. The right location draws more customers, ensures a high rate of return, and most importantly gives businesses the opportunity to grow successfully. Realising the increasing need for prime business sites in the Klang Valley, three developers (IOI Properties, Sime Darby Property and Brunsfield International Group) came up with the award-winning PJ Midtown which is strategically located in Section 13, Petaling Jaya. Slated for completion in early 2019, PJ Midtown covers 5.5 acres of commercial and residential components that are constructed primarily for the family, innovative businesses and working professionals.
Below: The commercial part of PJ Midtown consists of 111 units of offices and retail components.
Features and facilities aplenty The commercial part of PJ Midtown consists of 111 units of offices and retail components.
The offices have built-up areas ranging from 920 to 2,300 sq ft, suitable for established businesses and niched enterprises. The unit prices range from RM830,000 to RM1.9mil. With built-ups ranging from 920 to 2,400 sq ft, the retail components are suitable for various types of businesses including F&B outlets, grocery stores, fashion boutiques and hobby shops. These units are priced from RM1.3mil to RM4.7mil. Any business in PJ Midtown can benefit from the existing population of 700,000 and enjoy numerous facilities such as more than 2,400 parking bays, connecting lifts or staircases at two, three and four-storey units, and a centre courtyard with ample natural lighting that serves as a meeting point. All units are designed with dual entrances. Also available are mezzanine units of up to 24ft high, which is perfect for businesses that require showrooms.
A green development Another key feature of PJ Midtown is that
it strives to be a green mixed-development with the application of environmentally conscious architecture and design. To date, PJ Midtown has been granted Green Building Index (GBI) Provisional Gold and won The StarProperty.my Earth Conscious Merit Award 2016. The green features that have been included at PJ Midtown are motion sensors at common areas for energy saving; Energy Management System for efficient use of energy; rainwater harvesting to reduce potable water consumption; vertical greens at the car park podium to lower the overall building temperature; solar energy to power up common areas; recycling bins at common areas to promote awareness of reduce, reuse and recycle; and usage of low VOC paint. All these features not only help the development to be more environment-friendly but also increase comfort levels and improve business performance. For more information, visit www. pjmidtown.com or call +603-7843 9898.
Amenities: Community malls: Digital Mall, Jaya Shopping Centre, Jaya 33, Plaza 33, Jaya One, Amcorp Mall Medical centres: Columbia Asia Hospital, University Malaya Medical Centre, Assunta Hospital, Tun Hussein Onn National Eye Hospital and Beacon Hospital Four & five-star hotels: Sheraton PJ, PJ Hilton, Eastin Hotel, One World Hotel, Best Western PJ, Armada Hotel Higher education: University Malaya, Brickfields Asia College, MAHSA University, Stamford College Schools: SMK Sultan Abdul Samad, SMK Bukit Bintang, SRK Sri Petaling, SRK Sultan Alam Shah, SRJKC Puay Chai Connectivity: Federal Highway, New Klang Vallery Expressway (NKVE), SPRINT Expressway, Damansara-Puchong Expressway (LDP) Public transportation: Asia Jaya LRT station, Phileo Damansara MRT station, Rapid KL shuttle bus, intercity bus, taxis
Among the green features at PJ Midtown is the use of solar energy to power up some common areas.
Wednesday 7 February 2018
Starproperty.my
5
06 07 FEBRUARY 2018
ABC
STARPROPERTY.MY
By Tharmini Kenas tharmini@thestar.com.my Ng Pau Ling pauline@thestar.com.my and Aisyah Suwardi aisyahs@thestar.com.my
Rustic Ipoh has much to offer in terms of housing and living
M
oving into the big city seems to be a global trend. In this age of intensive urbanisation, people are seeking a better life in the big cities where money, services, wealth and opportunities are centralised. However, like most developments of human history, urbanisation has its dark side as well. While metropolitan Kuala Lumpur has not lost its allure, not all who live in the capital are willing to put up with the huge crowd, traffic jam, and noise and air pollution that often come with an urban lifestyle. In the latest StarProperty.my ABC series (Away from the Big Capital), we looked into the property market of some of the smaller cities or suburbs that have seen a recent boost in migration, with the old mining town of Ipoh becoming the focus of our first story. Voted the top nine best places to retire in the world and the third most affordable city in the world in foreign media, Ipoh has successfully made its mark through a combination of revitalised heritage streets and buildings, hip cafes and – in case you are living in a cave – good food. Relationship manager Shasswini Poorana Chandran, 26, said the high cost of living, security concerns and traffic congestion were among the reasons why she moved back to Ipoh from Kuala Lumpur. Besides a more budget-friendly lifestyle, one of the biggest perks of living in
Shasshwini Poorana Chandran
Veylan Krishna Kumar
Ipoh is that she is less reliant on public transportation. Project engineer Veylan Krishna Kumar, 26, also said that traffic in the big city is the main reason he is planning to move back to Ipoh – and it seems that ultimately there’s no place like home when it comes to food.
seeking a more balanced lifestyle
Mining Ipoh’s potential According to Rehda Perak branch chairman Tony Khoo Boon Chuan, 80% of property development in Perak is residential, and it is a self-sustaining market in which most buyers are local. “The single-storey terrace house is the most sought-after property type in Perak. With an average price of RM250,000, it provides a lower threshold for buyers to enter the property market. “Besides, it is easier to maintain a single-storey house compared to other property types, making it a good choice for a retirement home,” said Khoo. “The Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H) scheme attracts foreign buyers from Japan, Korea and China to move to Perak, and they are focused on luxury properties such as semi-detached and bungalow priced RM350,000 and above,” he added. Landed properties have long been a favourite among the Ipoh community. However, high-rises can be seen towering in the city of late. One such development is The Octagon situated right in the happening part of town. As one of the renowned local developers in Ipoh, TI Homes managing director Tan Fun Kwai noted that Ipoh residents have a different attitude from Kuala Lumpur folk when it comes to buying their house.
“I would say that Ipoh is a conservative market. Whenever we launched a new project, the standard take-up rate would be between 20% and 25%. “The reason is that Ipoh homebuyers like to see the projects being completed first before they go in. They want to see the end products themselves, and be reassured that the developers can deliver the projects well,” said Tan. This demographic of the Ipoh property market ensures that developers have enough funds to complete their projects, notwithstanding the expected income from when they launch the developments. Collectively, developers have quoted RM300,000 to RM400,000 as being the affordable range in Ipoh. In an interview with StarProperty. my, Kinta Real Estate Sdn Bhd managing director Datuk Poo Tak Kiau mentioned that the government’s affordable housing scheme PR1MA in Perak is a huge boon to the housing market in Ipoh. “The construction of PR1MA units is of top quality and the scheme is making it easier for first-time homebuyers to own properties in Ipoh.” He further mentioned that one of the most expensive residential neighbourhoods in Ipoh is Canning Garden because the mature neighbourhood is in a very
Tony Khoo Boon Chuan
Datuk Leong Kin Kun
Datuk Poo Tak Kiau
Tan Fun Kwal
convenient location. Sri Anika Group managing director Datuk Leong Kin Kun said that 2010 to 2015 was the best period for the Perak property market because the price soared 50% within a decade. “In the late 1990s, a double-storey home in Perak was selling for RM150,000. The price increased to RM200,000 in the years 2000 to 2009. After 2010, similar properties are now priced above RM300,000,” he said. However, Leong added that 2018 would be a flat year for the property market because most of the industry players are slowing down construction since there is no catalyst for the market. “This is a period for review and planning for the future. “Moving forward, our strategy is to split the projects into smaller phases and launch on a small scale,” he added. According to Numbeo.com, the average rental rate of a one-bedroom apartment in the city centre is RM700 a month while the rate for a three-bedroom apartment is RM1,450. Currently, the average selling price per square metre of an apartment in the city centre is around RM5,099.
the Single-storey terrace house is the most sought-after property type in Perak. With an average price of RM250,000, it provides a lower threshold for buyers to enter the property market. Average property price in Perak Type
Price
One-storey terrace
RM250,000
Two-storey terrace
RM350,000-400,000
One-storey semi-detached
RM400,000
Two-storey semi-detached
RM650,000-800,000
Bungalow
RM850,000 to RM1.5mil
Comparison index Index
Kuala Lumpur
Ipoh
Price to Income Ratio:
11.07
10.00
Loan Affordability Index:
1.19
1.39
Price to Rent Ratio - City Centre:
24.80
31.26
Price to Rent Ratio Outside of Centre:
22.72
34.49
Source: Numbeo.com
STARPROPERTY.MY
07 FEBRUARY 2018
07
Feature
Understanding joint loans
Does it take two to tango? By Aisyah Suwardi aisyahs@thestar.com.my
Pros
Cons
J
1. Higher accumulated income
1. You share the property together
oint loans are an option available to you when buying a house. With a joint loan, you and the other person who has agreed to take the loan will now have the opportunity to own the property together. There is no limit as to how many people can take a loan with you but you can only apply for a joint loan with your parents, siblings or spouse aged 18 years old and above but not exceeding 60. The application process is the same as that of a personal loan. All parties will have to be present while handling the procedures. Let’s have a look at some of the pros and cons of applying for a joint loan:
Instead of just your income, the bank will evaluate your debt-to-income (DTI) ratio based on the accumulated income between you and your co-joint loaner. The lower your DTI ratio, the less risky you are for the bank – and thus more likely your loan will be approved.
For example, A’s income: RM4,000 B’s income: RM3,500 Monthly bills: RM1,300 (cars for A+B) + RM1,500 (rented condo) + RM300 (utilities) DTI: (RM1,300+RM1,500+RM300) / (RM4,000+RM3,500) = 0.413
2. Reliable credit score
It will be advantageous if you and your co-joint loaner have reliable credit scores. Paying your bills on time is also an advantage as it would be easier for banks to approve your loan application if both of you are able to meet the payments on time.
3. Higher success rate According to a banker, a joint loan has over 60% success rate of approval as compared to a personal loan.
surance (MLTA). As for joint-MRTA, only one person’s name will be nominated and the MRTA will cover only half the loan amount.
Case Study:
Essentially, any decision that you want to make regarding the property has to be agreed upon by every co-joint loaner. You can’t easily choose to rent out or sell your property if the other parties don’t want to. On selling, the profit obtained will be divided equally.
A and B took a joint loan amounting to RM500,000. A is the one with the name on the MRTA. Several years later A dies, leaving B with the loan. Since the MRTA was under A’s name, the MRTA payout will cover half of the loan (RM250,000) and B only has to pay the rest of the loan. But say that this time B is the one who dies instead of A, and B’s name is not under the MRTA. A has to continue paying the loan in full as the MRTA is not under B’s name. There is an option of putting both names under the MRTA but then you will have to pay extra.
2. You are responsible for the other party
You have to ensure that the other person pays their share diligently so as not to affect your credit score in the future. For example, you have already paid your share for that month but the other party didn’t pay, the information will be recorded and later affect your credit score.
3. Loan transfer
In a situation where the other party wants to sell the property, you have to let go of it or you have to buy out his share of the loan. The property and the profit will be divided equally. In case of death, banks make it compulsory for loaners to apply for Mortgage Reducing Term Assurance (MRTA) or Mortgage Level Term As-
4. Future loan consideration You can get up to 90% financing for your first and second home. If you take a joint loan, you and your husband can only have two houses with a 90% loan as opposed to four houses if you opted for a personal loan. Your third and subsequent loan will only give you 70% financing.
Do I take a joint loan or a personal loan? Deciding on whether to take a joint loan or a personal loan to buy a house has always been the dilemma for many people. Most importantly, you need to choose your joint loanee wisely, as the decision would affect you and your joint loanee for the next few decades.
MRTA and MLTA defined
MRTA is a life insurance plan with decreasing sum assured over time, and it is used just to cover your home loan owed to the bank. MLTA is a life insurance plan in which the sum assured will not decrease over time. MLTA premium is higher than that of MRTA but the policy is transferable to a new property loan. This article is part of the StarProperty. my’s upcoming ebook titled Looking for your first house? House-hunting tips in 2018. Register at bit.ly/househuntingtips2018 to get a free ecopy.
four Common Problems When buying A House And How To Deal With Them
By Eion Towle
B
uying a house is a pain in the neck for most Malaysians especially at this time when prices are high. Even worse are the common predicaments that befall any careless or unfortunate buyer. Here are four typical house problems that we can easily miss. They are, however, easily rectified.
The project could turn sour In truth, there is never a guarantee on the completion of any project. Over the course of about 20 years, there have been numerous cases of customers losing their purchase deposits as a result of the project failing to take off. There is no foolproof way to solve the problem, but your best bet would be to purchase from a reputable, well-known and listed
company, and to have a clear understanding of your financial situation.
Rely on specialists and familiarise yourself with a clear view of your rights.
Major structural Pest defects problems A faulty or hasty primary inspection can cause a huge amount of problems to surface shortly. Things such as the roof, drainage, wall stains and more can present themselves as mere vexations to life-threatening complications. The most alarming drawback would be the immense difficulty in claiming back any amount of money once the completion and exchange have been finalised. To avoid such intricate weaving of issues, it is highly recommended that the purchaser reviews the legislation pertaining to purchasing a house. Be prepared for everything and don't leave anything to chance.
T y p i c a l l y, h o u s e s i n the more rural parts of an area will be more prone to pest infestation. Pests can be docile like cockroaches and ants or baleful like hornets and wasps. The worst kinds are those that destroy furniture and architecture because of the high repair cost. The safest step in dealing with this problem is to seek professional pest inspection before signing the contract. This inexpensive tack can save you from endangering your life or forcing you to pay an exorbitant amount to settle. But even if the inspection is expensive, it is likely that the
repercussions of neglect can cost many times more.
Amateur craft and quality
The most common problems to look out for are those concerning plumbing, carpentry, electrical work and leaky faucets and toilets. These four main areas can catalyse a whole list of headaches in the future and even endanger the life of occupants. It is essential for the buyer
to observe and analyse the dimensions of the house before making a commitment, regardless of how much you trust the seller. The simple act of looking out for things that seem odd or alarming can go a long way, especially when you’re about to live in that house. There will always be some form of problem in every house that's ready to befall an unfortunate occupant who fails to see it. But if you manage to nip it in the bud and rectify matters, then you have one less problem to worry about.
08 07 FEBRUARY 2018
STARPROPERTY.MY
Advertorial
Above: Those who decide to make D’Rapport their home will be greeted by spacious and fullyfitted abodes with resort-living facilities.
Above: Enclosed within the development is a tranquil garden for residents to enjoy their leisure.
building a rapport with kuala lumpur Developer crafts ideal property for investing in the city
I
t’s worthwhile investing in Malaysia – that’s the message to foreigners looking for retirement and relocation opportunities. According to International Living. com, Malaysia is recognised as one of the top 10 destinations for retirement, edging out Portugal, Nicaragua and Spain, and is among the top five countries in the world for quality healthcare. Malaysia is also backed by comprehensive private and international education systems with 120 international schools, mostly located in Kuala Lumpur and Selangor. Additionally, the government has announced specific plans to improve the country’s road and railway infrastructure as well as ports and facilities. Some of these plans have already been implemented in recent years. For these reasons, Malaysia should be a top priorty for those considering investment opportunities.
Modern living Recognising Malaysia’s potential, developer Acmar Group has introduced D’Rapport Residences.
Located along Jalan Ampang, this development offers classical features as well as contemporary lifestyle conveniences.
Located along Jalan Ampang, this development offers classical features as well as contemporary lifestyle conveniences. D’Rapport is in the heart of the city yet tucked away from its hustle and bustle. The development offers retail and grocery conveniences at your doorstep without compromising on safety with its security services. The 9.12-acre development has five majestic towers with a total of 1,099 apartments. Each tower stands at 38 storeys and accommodates six apartments per floor. The towers are serviced by high-speed lifts as well as a service lift. The buildings are constructed by China Railway Engineering Company Sdn Bhd. They not only display attractive architecture but also boast quality and safety. Buyers who decide to make D’Rapport their home will be greeted by spacious and fully-fitted abodes with modern resort-living facilities of over 280,000 sq ft. The facilities include a tennis court, a 76m leisure pool, two lap pools, 11,000 sq ft of landscaped forest, a panoramic
Sky Deck with sky pond, gardens, and a lounge as well as a full-size basketball court. In addition to spa, sauna and fitness facilities that can be found indoors, residents can look forward to golf simulators, indoor putting range, game stations, a home cinema system, as well as badminton and squash courts. The strategic location of D’Rapport Residences is complemented by a neighbourhood that has a high concentration of expatriates who work at the embassies and multinational companies in the city centre.
Conveniences Within a 2km radius of the development, residents will find a Cold Storage and Jaya Grocer for daily household needs, Kuala Lumpur International School for education, a wide selection of food and beverage providers along Jalan Ampang, and Gleneagles Hospital for top-notch medical care. The development is 3.5km from the Kuala Lumpur City Centre, and five to 10 minutes from the entry onto DUKE highway and Middle Ring Road 2.
The facilities include 11,000 sq ft of landscaped forest.
The completion of the Jelatek Underpass is expected to significantly reduce traffic flow at the junction of the Great Eastern Mall on Jalan Ampang, which is just around the corner of D’Rapport. The planned construction of DUKE 3 and SUKE will also provide residents with greater connectivity. For more information, visit D’Rapport Residences sales gallery at www. drapport.com.my or call +603-4252 4888 / +6016-2227929. You may also e-mail info@drapport.com.my
D’Rapport is in the heart of the city yet tucked away from its hustle and bustle. it offers retail conveniences at your doorstep without compromising on safety.
A spa, sauna and fitness facilities can be found indoors.
Wednesday 7 February 2018
Starproperty.my
9
10 07 FEBRUARY 2018
STARPROPERTY.MY
Developments
L
OCATED in Melbourne’s bustling prime central business district (CBD) is S P Setia’s newest landmark in Australia – UNO, a 65-storey high-rise which is part of a mixed-development. Encompassing a heritage building the podium houses ground floor retail, foyer space, a childcare centre, a hotel and car parking with hotel rooms activating the aspect towards A’Beckett St. Thereafter, 54 levels of UNO extends vertically from its podium, housing the remainder of a hotel as well as 486 residential apartments. The development is targeted at young families or couples, investors, downsizers and even offshore residents who frequent Melbourne, voted the world’s most liveable city in 2017. Selling from A$499,000 (RM1.57mil), the apartments within UNO will be available in a variety of layouts with sizes ranging from 548 sq ft to 1,100 sq ft. The development enjoys immediate access to all of central Melbourne’s retail, recreation and employment opportunities, with the property being strategically located within the metropolis.
UNO will boast a spectacular 360-degree view of Melbourne.
WORLD’S MOST LIVEABLE CITY WELCOMES UNO MELBOURNE
S P Setia crafts luxury high-rise Down Under for city dwellers, investors and offshore residents
THE BUILDING IS CRAFTED FROM INSIDE OUT IN ORDER TO MAXIMISE AND OPTIMISE THE VIEWING ANGLES OF INDIVIDUAL APARTMENT UNITS.
UNO features a 65-level high-rise comprising 486 units of residential apartments and 256 hotel rooms.
Construction is planned to commence in the third quarter of 2018, after launching within the first quarter of the year. The property is targeted for completion by the second quarter of 2021. Potential buyers can choose from layout arrangements of one bedroom and one study; two bedrooms with two baths; two bedrooms, two baths and a study; or even the biggest unit configuration of three bedrooms with an additional study. The development will stand out as a stunning addition to this active part of the city because of its high performance colour-shifting dichroic glass which displays visual transitions between shades of cop-
per and sandstone colours, depending on the angle the building is viewed from. The curved, concave floor plate shape expressed in the tower form is a direct result of the urban context of the site. The building is crafted to maximise and optimise the viewing angles of individual apartment units. Guests frequenting the development will find hotel amenities on level nine of the building while residential facilities will be located on levels 40 and 64 of UNO. Other residential facilities include an indoor heated pool, a yoga studio, kitchen and library. Access to UNO is a breeze with a multi-
Warm interior tones with a touch of nature define homes at UNO and creates a rustic feel.
tude of tram and bus stops within walking distance; the Melbourne Central Train Station is only two minutes away. Accessibility to the high-rise will be improved with the upcoming CBD North Station which will be located five minutes away. The locale is also backed by easy access to highways. Other attractions within walking distance of UNO are the Queen Victoria Market, Melbourne Central, RMIT University, Flagstaff Gardens, State Library of Victoria, Emporium Shopping Centre, University of Melbourne, Bourke Street Mall, and Chinatown.
Wednesday 7 February 2018
Starproperty.my
11
12 07 FEBRUARY 2018
Festive
STARPROPERTY.MY
By Tharmini Kenas tharmini@thestar.com.my
Do’s and Don’ts for Chinese New Year M
alaysians have plenty of exciting stories stemming from the multitude of interesting cultures and traditions. With Chinese New Year just around the corner, I am reminded of one particular tradition that fascinated me when I was in primary school. I was told by a dear friend that it was not common to exchange books with each other during the festival since the word “book” – when translated to Chinese – is pronounced as
1. DO clean your home
3. DO wear red
It is a common practice to ensure that your home is spick and span on new year’s eve when the clock strikes midnight. Sweep, mop, scrub, vacuum and dust until the house is squeaky clean. Apart from hygiene, it is believed that the activity clears the home of all the bad luck and ushers in good luck. It is also crucial to clear all debts and bills so that you can start the new year without any financial burden or setbacks.
Chinese New Year means painting the town red with red lanterns and decorations. It only makes sense to wear red at this time to get into the spirit of the festivity. More importantly, it is believed that the colour symbolises happiness and good luck. So, dear millennials, save your cool and trendy colours for other occasions. Get on the bandwagon and wear red with the rest of the family members for the new year.
2. DO display oranges and tangerines For many of us, the Mandarin orange is a juicy and yummy citrus fruit and there is no greater joy than peeling the skin off before biting into the orange on a sunny day. For the Chinese, oranges and tangerines signify abundant happiness. What better way to start the new year than to present your friends and loved ones with an abundance of joy?
landscape Design with nature in mind By Aisyah Suwardi aisyahs@thestar.com.my
A
lthough it is a lesser-known profession, landscape architecture is an integral part of the construction process and a much sought-after profession due to the scarcity of trained professionals. Producing around 200 to 250 graduates per year, the job requires practitioners to be adept at balancing the principle of design and the ecosystem. For the second instalment of the Careers in Real Estate series, Institute of Landscape Architect Malaysia (ILAM) president Dr Osman Mohd Tahir shares his experience as a practitioner of landscape architect for 35 years. Dr Osman was a student of Agricultural Science at Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM) when he was first exposed to the
field of landscape architecture. He said landscape architecture was only introduced as a tertiary education course in 1996 when the government established the National Landscape Department. It was then that universities started to offer the course as part of their undergraduate degrees. “Five public universities – UPM, University Technology Mara (UiTM), University Technology Malaysia (UTM), Islamic Institute University Malaysia (IIUM), and University Science Malaysia (USM) – offer landscape architecture as undergraduate and postgraduate studies. “The course is a professional four-year degree recognised by ILAM, with the syllabus encompassing subjects such as History and Philosophy of Landscape Architecture,
shu, which also means “to lose”. So, the act of giving or receiving books equates to bad luck during the festive season. Although such traditions have been practised for ages, the younger generation or the modern Chinese community have become less and less aware of them. With that, I am going to share a few do’s and dont’s for Chinese New Year because it is always good to go back to your roots.
4. DON’T sweep the floor You do not want to sweep away all the good luck that is coming your way in the new year. So, it is best to refrain from sweeping. While some may rejoice and cheer, others could find it unsettling to not sweep the house on such an important occasion. More so when family and friends are visiting your home and you want your home to be at its best. But according to tradition, it is not advisable to do so. So, no sweeping!
6. DON’T borrow money 5. DON’T wash or cut your hair If you want to style your hair for Chinese New Year, do it before the big occasion. This is because washing your hair will wash away good luck and cutting your hair will cut away the fortune.
Environmental Study, Plant and Ecosystem, Site Design and Construction,” he said.
Scan to read more
Landscape architect versus architect
Dr Osman is also the Dean of the Faculty of Design and Architecture in UPM. He said that landscape architecture is different from architecture in that the latter tackles the topic of buildings, design and other physical structures whereas landscape arDr Osman: Landscape chitecture focuses more on the environarchitect focuses on ment surrounding the building. the environment. He also shared that a landscape architect is responsible for building a conducive living environment for the public by infusing their knowledge in art and science. “We need to understand the principle behind the design and grasp the basic ecological system knowledge. It is important for us to plan the landscape, taking into account the engineering, landscape ecology, so-
To avoid getting into debt for the rest of the year, you should not borrow money during Chinese New Year. It is also advisable to clear all your debts well before the new year and start with a clean slate without any preceding financial difficulties. These are just a handful of do’s and dont’s associated with Chinese New Year. It is time to relearn all the traditions since our cultures and traditions play a significant role in shaping our future. This new year, take the time to ask for stories on traditions from your parents or grandparents and appreciate your roots. Gong Xi Fa Chai! !
cial facet as well as the economic aspect of the whole project,” he added. Dr Osman said a landscape architect is in charge of planning and designing the landscape of the development. To come out with the best layout that blends seamlessly with nature, landscape architects have to visit the site to run tests and surveys. Then, they have to analyse the information collected and carry out further research on the subject. “With all the information, the landscape architect needs to provide the best solution to propose to the clients or developers besides presenting the idea with the right tools,” said Dr Osman. To obtain the LAr title, a landscape graduate student would be required to register with ILAM after graduation and before starting work in the field. After two years of practice, they are qualified to sit for a professional exam by ILAM before being able to hold the designation. “They could continue their practice, or they can opt to open their own landscape architecture company,” said Dr Osman, who added that it would usually take about four to five years after graduation for a person to get the title. For the full article, visit bit.ly/landscapearchitectcareer.
STARPROPERTY.MY
07 FEBRUARY 2018
13
Feature
what’s on your mind? Here's a platform for readers to post queries on all things property Translated by Ng Pau Ling pauline@thestar.com.my
02
H
No Bumiquota on freehold property?
03
The use of the common area in a flat?
ASK
ME
No bumi-quota on freehold property? Q: I’m a non-bumiputra buyer looking for second-hand property and prefer a non-bumi lot because a bumi-title usually takes longer and more complicated to transfer the ownership. According to my property agent, there is no bumi-reserved unit for freehold property. Is this true? A: No. A bumi-lot is the property unit exclusive to bumiputra buyers. In Malaysia, there are bumi-reserved units for both freehold and leasehold property. To know more about the land title of the property, you can purchase a copy of Land Search Report from the land office.
Are you allowed to renovate your condo?
01
ave a house-related question? Just ask StarProperty.my now that we have launched our new segment Ask Me Anything (AMA)! Send your questions to editor@ starproperty.com.my and we will find you the answers.
ANYTHING
How to extend real estate ownership to the spouse?
Are you allowed to renovate your condo? Q: I own a condo and plan to remodel the balcony to suit my home design. Who should I ask permission before I start renovation?
A: The high-rise or condo resident should obtain permission from the Joint Management Body (JMB) or Management Corporation (MC) before doing any renovation. JMB or MC reserves the right to reject the application if the remodelling works are deemed to negatively affect the building’s appearance or environment after undergoing an evaluation.
How to extend real estate ownership to your spouse
Use of common area in a government flat Q: I live in a low-cost government flat. As the resident of the building, can I put household items, shoe rack or bicycle in the stairwell or corridor? A: According to Strata Management (Maintenance and Management) Regulations 2015 Third Schedule Section 20 (1) and (2), all fire escape routes including stairway, landings and passageways in the building or the common property shall not be obstructed by the proprietor at any time. The MC may remove or confiscate any property of a proprietor without prior notice. Besides, a penalty not exceeding RM200 will be implemented if the proprietor goes against the law. However, most low-cost flats are in poor condition because of the absence of a management body to enforce the rules and regulations.
Q: I just got married and would like to add my wife’s name to the house deed. May I know the legal process and cost involved? A: If the said property is still servicing the mortgage, you can only add your wife’s name to the house title once the loan balance is paid off. If the loan is settled, sign the Memorandum of Transfer (Form 14A) to transfer or share the house ownership. A RM10 stamp duty will be charged to process the extension of ownership.
*This article was first published on Property Trends and answered by Chur Associates founder and managing partner Chris Tan. Disclaimer: All data and information provided are for informational purposes only. All information is provided on an as-is basis. All users are strongly encouraged to seek professional advice before relying on any data and/or information provided.
Retail to remain challenging in 2018
By Hakim Hassan hakim@thestar.com.my
I
t will continue to be a challenging time for the retail sector in 2018, according to Savills Malaysia Sdn Bhd deputy executive chairman Allan
Soo. He reckons it will also be a challenging year for sectors such as fashion and groceries but suggests that the other industries will continue to grow from last year. “For the short term, we see that this year is still going to be challenging because the numbers are increasingly flat. Fast fashion in particular will be facing challenging times with new names coming in. “However, there will be continued increase in sales for cosmetics, accessories, and food and beverage,” he said during the 11th Malaysian Property Summit 2018. Soo said that in the short run, the retail sector and malls in Malaysia will face challenges in terms of additional supply, where there will be consolidation in the industry and changes in the landscape. “In the long run, we are going to see changes regarding how the malls react to the millennial crowd and e-commerce itself,” he added. Soo also said that retail stores have to adapt because the increase in growth
Allan Soo, deputy executive chairman of Savills Malaysia Sdn Bhd.
this year is still going to be challenging because the numbers are increasingly flat.
for e-commerce has been significant in recent years. He believes that big data will be a major influence on how physical stores can compete. “Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre did about RM2.5bil in sales turnover last year. In comparison, Lazada collected about RM1bil a day,” he said. Soo explained that although the numbers might suggest that physical
retail stores are losing their lustre, there will be a synergy between retail and online where both components could still be relevant. He said the increase of incoming malls will cause a glut, especially in the Klang Valley. Moving forward, the exponential growth of online shopping and the current competition will make it challenging for current mall operators.
Above: The growth of online shopping and the current competition will make it challenging for mall operators.
“Malaysia has more than 250 malls, 170 of which are hypermarkets, and a combined net lettable area of around 62 million sq ft. If you look at the population in the Klang Valley – that is about 7.4 to 7.5 million – you have per capita of 8.4 sq ft retail space. “We will have an incoming supply up to 2021 of another 20 million sq ft. The overall occupancy rate has dropped to 87.9%. “It is still not that alarming. But going forward, the big question is how we will fare with e-commerce coming in so fast,” said Soo.
14 07 FEBRUARY 2018
STARPROPERTY.MY
Advertorial
Above: Puchong is home to Marimo’s pioneer development Ohako and one of the biggest towns in the Klang Valley that's populated by middle-income earners. Residents of Ohako will be greeted by a grand entrance where the guardhouse is stationed.
Surprises in a box Marimo creates quaint high-rise in mature Puchong
M
Getting to and from the development is easy because it is connected to the other areas of the Klang Valley through LDP.
arimo Land Sdn Bhd is constructing a boutique residential development dubbed Ohako in the heart of mature Puchong. This property is the brainchild of the developer which is in the midst of expanding land banks across Malaysia and at the same time keen to brand itself as a prominent name in South-East Asia. Marimo grew from humble beginnings in Hiroshima, Japan, through a company named AI Architectural Design Co Ltd which was established in 1971 and specialised in the creation of middle class, high-rise condominiums. Puchong, the home of Marimo’s pioneer development Ohako, is an ideal location because it is one of the biggest towns in the Klang Valley populated by middle-income earners. This advanta-
geous site is at the mid-point between Subang and Petaling Jaya. Ohako, Japanese for “box of surprises”, is a two-tower high-rise that will be developed over 4.375 acres of freehold commercial land. Launched in October 2015, Tower A is fully taken up while Tower B is 70% sold. The property sells from RM450,000 per unit with an attractive package and is targeted for completion by 2019. Buyers can choose from three unit configurations. Type X is a two-bedroom, two-bathroom unit with a built-up area of 815 sq ft. Type Y is a three-bedroo, two-bathroom unit with a layout of 955 sq ft. Type Z has three bedrooms and two bathrooms plus balcony and is sized at 1,002 sq ft. Ohako differs significantly from
other high-rise developments due to its large facility area, water filtration system implemented throughout the development, the latest waterproofing technology in building design, an available rooftop as well as a unique lobby balcony with a random square design. Once completed, the residents of Ohako will be able to enjoy essential amenities around the development. The property is 10 to 15 minutes away from Giant, Tesco, IOI Mall Puchong and several LRT stations. As for healthcare, popular establishments such as Sunway Medical Centre and Columbia Asia are located 15 to 20 minutes from the development. Getting to and from the development is easy because it is connected to other townships of the Klang Valley through the Lebuhraya Damansara Puchong (LDP) and Kesas Highway.
Ohako means 'Box of Surprises' in japanese – is a twotower highrise that will be developed over 4.375 acres of freehold commercial land.
Ohako's lifestyle facilities include a jogging track, skate ramp, children’s gym, viewing pavilion and a floating wedding stage, as well as party space for 1,000 people.
Ohako differs from other high-rise developments due to its large facility area, water filtration system, latest waterproofing technology and a unique lobby balcony.
Wednesday 7 February 2018
Starproperty.my
15
16 07 FEBRUARY 2018
STARPROPERTY.MY
Advertorial
Eco Horizon and Beyond EcoWorld to transform northern landscape with its 300-acre development
n
Below: Eco Horizon will have a clubhouse with a central park that spreads across 3.6 acres.
ear the mainland end of the Second Penang Bridge in Batu Kawan lies a sprawling mixed-development project that is set to change the landscape of the northern region. Eco Horizon is a 300-acre gated and guarded township that offers landed strata title homes. The project is being developed by public listed Eco World Development Group Bhd (EcoWorld), a Malaysian company involved mainly in property development within the country and abroad. EcoWorld is spread across three key economic regions in Malaysia, with 18 development projects in total including new townships, integrated commercial developments, luxury high-rise apartments and green business parks. The developer currently holds a land bank of about 8,052 acres and carries a total gross development value (GDV) of RM87.5bil. Through EcoWorld International, the company has extended its reach to London, England, and Sydney and Melbourne in Australia. Eco World is helmed by some of the most well-known and respected industry players in the Malaysian property sector. Driven by its vision of “Creating Tomorrow & Beyond”, and powered by an experienced and dynamic team, the EcoWorld brand is set to soar higher in the years to come. With a GDV of RM7bil, the Eco Horizon township project is planned for development over 10 years. Some 230 acres of its 300 acres will be for landed properties. The project’s commercial component will take up the remaining 70 acres. The first residential phase, which has already been launched, is named Ashton and will comprise 704 terraced houses, superlink homes and garden homes – all of which are two storeys. The houses boast a Portico architectural design and an English concept throughout the interior. Floor dimensions range from 2,331 to 2,540 sq ft. The three other residential phases of the project will be called Brydon, Cam-
Planned for development over 10 years, Eco Horizon is a 300-acre gated and guarded township that offers landed strata title homes.
don, and Dawson. Besides being a gated and guarded township, Eco Horizon holds other unique features such as a 20ft back lane garden and a main road coupled with collateral road covering as well as landscaping. The project will also boast a clubhouse with a central park that spreads across 3.6 acres. A prominent feature of Eco Horizon is a flamingo-inspired lake which will occupy 13.6 acres. Apart from outstanding features such as environmentally-sound building practices that will ensure sustainable living, the project also offers excellent ventilation and natural lighting inside all its residential units. For security and peace of mind of residents, EcoWorld has installed a 10ft emblem fencing around the entire development, alarm systems in every unit, intercom connection to the guard house,
and motion sensor closed-circuit television along the perimeter fencing. And, of course, there will be round-the-clock security patrols by auxiliary police. To mark the end of the 2018 Chinese New Year celebrations, a Chap Goh Mei event will be held on March 2 from 6pm to 10pm. This party to wrap up the lunar new year festivities will feature street food and include a lion dance performance, a drum performance, dances, a live band and an appearance by the god of prosperity. The evening’s highlight is the unveiling of Eco Horizon’s flamingo-shaped lake during which water lilies will be placed. Visitors to this event are required to register in advance, and a wristband will be issued to facilitate entry to the venue. Those who share this event with their friends on Facebook will be entitled to a gold ticket which can be used to claim a mystery gift on that day.
Catch a breather from your daily exercise and take in the scenery of Eco Horizon which features an aesthetically pleasing gazebo.
Apart from outstanding features such as environmentallysound building practices that will ensure sustainable living, the project also offers excellent ventilation and natural lighting inside all its residential units.
A 10ft emblem fencing and alarm systems in every home are among the security features at this township.
Wednesday 7 February 2018
Starproperty.my
17
18 07FEBRUARY 2018
STARPROPERTY.MY
Advertorial
B
ukit Jalil is a strategic location for families and young homebuyers to live and flourish in. It is perfect as a starter-home locale because of the many established amenities in the area, including Tzu Chi International School, that will complement the lifestyle of residents. LBS Bina Group Bhd decided to bank on this invaluable aspect of Bukit Jalil by launching Residensi Bintang Bukit Jalil (RBBJ), the company’s first project for the year. The RM954.7mil development will be built on 5.47 acres with a 47-storey North tower and a 50-storey South tower, giving a total of 1,342 units. RBBJ is designed to offer heightened strategic placement to meet the work and leisure needs of future residents at a reasonable price tag, selling from RM553,000. LBS Bina group managing director Tan Sri Lim Hock San said: “We designed Residensi Bintang Bukit Jalil with homebuyers in mind. This is what makes us one of the more resilient property players in Malaysia. “I am confident that RBBJ will meet the needs of today’s modern homebuyers and will translate into positive take-up rates when launched,” he said. RBBJ is offered to the public through three functional layouts of between 805 sq ft and 1,209 sq ft for the North Tower. The units are presented in three types, namely A1, B and C. Type A1 comes with a cosy two-bedroom and Coming home two-bathroom layout, while will be a treat types B and C are designed every day with spacious three-bedas RBBJ will room and two-bathroom have a grand setting. Coming home will be entrance a treat every day as RBBJ which will will have a grand entrance be the first which will be the first feature that eye-catching eye-catching greets all guests as they feature that enter the property, regreets all flecting the essence of guests as the condominium – exclusivity. they enter the Staying close to its property. notion of being cus-
starry start to 2018 for lbs bina
Developer offers stylish starter homes at Bukit Jalil
RBBJ will have a grand entrance that will be the first eye-catching feature greeting all guests.
tomer-conscious, LBS has incorporated the convenience of over 90 facilities for RBBJ. Some of the notable facilities include a garden pool, aqua gym, games room, reading nook, indoor and alfresco gyms and playgrounds. The views from RBBJ of the city skyline and the majestic backbone of the peninsula, the
Titiwangsa range, will be unmatched as the condominium is on a 15-metre elevation from the main road. Parents planning to give their children the best in education can opt for the Tzu Chi International School which is targeted for completion in 2020. Currently, two institutions of higher learning – the International Medical University (IMU) and Asia Pacific University (APU) – are located only 7km away from the development. As for retail needs, residents will be spoilt for choice as the Bukit Jalil City Mall
is 2km away from RBBJ while Paradigm Garden City Mall is a 6.5km drive away. Getting to RBBJ is easy because the residence is seamlessly connected to the Shah Alam Expressway (KESAS), Maju Expressway (MEX), Bukit Jalil Expressway, Damansara-Puchong Expressway (LDP) and the Kuala Lumpur-Seremban Expressway. RBBJ is strategically located in the mid-section of upcoming and accessible education, sports, entertainment and leisure establishments. This highlights the property as one of the more desired addresses in the Bukit Jalil vicinity.
LBS Bina has incorporated over 90 facilities within RBBJ.
Facilities include a garden pool, aqua gym, games room, playgrounds and more.
RBBJ is designed to meet the work and leisure needs of its residents.
The RM954.7mil development will be built on 5.47 acres with a 47-storey North tower and a 50-storey South tower.
RBBJ is designed to provide a wholesome living environment for residents.
Wednesday 7 February 2018
Starproperty.my
19
20 07 FEBRUARY 2018
STARPROPERTY.MY
Advertorial
City living at Cantara Residents to enjoy freehold development within Ara Damansara Cantara means bridge in Arabic and is the theme for the development.
A stylish lobby greets the residents of Cantara Residences.
Facilities at Cantara Residences include two swimming pools, aqua gym, half basketball court, sky bridge, yoga lawn, futsal court, jogging track, gymnasium and more.
the larger 2,145 sq ft units sell for about RM2,040,888 each.
Emphasis on lifestyle
Comprising 188 residential units, Tower C is part of Cantara Residences' 888 units that are shared across four towers. Cantara Residences offers residential units with built-up areas from 646 sq ft to 2,145 sq ft.
A
ra Damansara in Petaling Jaya is a mature township, home to low and high-rise residences, commercial centres, and premier bungalows. Its community lives within well-planned surroundings framed by lush landscaping and the conveniences of a modern lifestyle. The township currently offers trendy serviced suites such as Oasis Damansara, as well as luxurious frontages that include the resort-style homes of Ara Hill. Ara Damansara is a locale much sought-after by various developers besides Sime Darby Property due to its exclusivity as the area is among the last few parcels of freehold land that is suitable for residential and commercial development within Petaling Jaya. The township is well assimilated and independent, being surrounded by many amenities such as hotels, schools, hypermarkets, country clubs and retail outlets.
The Transit-Oriented Development concept has been incorporated at Ara Damansara. Residents of Cantara will benefit from good public transport connectivity by way of the LRT stations and linkages. At the same time, it is a catalyst for growth for the township and community.
Four towers and a bridge In 2016, Sime Darby Property launched Cantara Residences. The project is poised to be a landmark within Ara Damansara and admired for its green technology, amenities and connectivity. Cantara means bridge in Arabic and is the theme for the development. A fourblock serviced apartment is coupled with loft and duplex units that hang effortlessly in mid-air. A bridge-like structure connecting the
four towers will be the distinguishing feature of this development. Sime Darby Property launched Cantara Residences Tower C on Sept 23 last year on one of the few remaining undeveloped plots of prime land at Ara Damansara. Comprising 188 residential units, Tower C is part of Cantara Residences’ 888 units that are shared across four towers. The development, targeted for completion by 2020, will be integrated with 13 commercial units and high-end facilities. Cantara Residences offers residential units with built-up areas from 646 sq ft to 2,145 sq ft. The larger units are suited to multi-generational families, with 3+2 bedrooms. To date, Cantara Residences Tower Block A and B have seen a healthy take-up rate of 96% and 78% respectively. Those interested in becoming a proud resident of Cantara Residences can own a unit now for RM549,888 upwards while
Cantara Residences places much emphasis on its lifestyle aspects. The development is ideal for those searching for calmness within a relaxing environment, which is a feature of Ara Damansara. Residents will enjoy being near an efficient public transportation hub which is easily accessible. Those who plan to call Cantara Residences home in the near future will be delighted with quality facilities that include two wide swimming pools, two wading pools, hot and cool dip pools (with sauna and steam room), two children playgrounds (wet and dry play), an aqua gym, half basketball court, Sky Bridge, yoga lawn, futsal court and a jogging track. The Sky Bridge will be on Level 18 of the development, connecting all four residential towers. The roof of the Sky Bridge is crafted to create a wholesome community, with an outdoor landscaped park and viewing deck where residents can break a sweat amid green and magnificent city sights. Getting to the development is a breeze due to the established township of Ara Damansara which has seen improved access throughout the years. The township is well connected through the Federal Highway, New Klang Valley Expressway and Lebuhraya-Damansara Puchong as well as the newly opened Kelana Jaya LRT Line extension.
Wednesday 7 February 2018
Starproperty.my
21
22 07 FEBRUARY 2018
STARPROPERTY.MY
Advertorial
m101 Skywheel to make A landmark statement in KL
Award-winning freehold development offers a unique destination retail environment
M
101 Holdings Sdn Bhd (M101) is taking high-rise living to a whole new level with unique concepts and inspiring architectural designs. Its M101 Skywheel development, strategically located in the heart of Kuala Lumpur, will strive to make a statement amid the multitude of famous landmarks by changing the city’s skyline with an intriguing and fascinating composition. “Designed by Studio F.A. Porsche (Studio), M101 Skywheel is poised to be the next international landmark. Upon completion, it will be an international tourist attraction helping to maintain Kuala Lumpur’s sweet spot as a unique destination. “We believe that our unique product positioning is also a key driver of our success,” said M101 chief executive officer Datuk Seth Yap. Slated for completion by 2021, the project has an estimated Gross Development Value (GDV) of RM2.2bil and won several awards in 2017.
Functional features, modern interiors This award-winning freehold development offers a true “destination retail environment” that sets M101 Skywheel apart from other high-rise developments in Kuala Lumpur. The landmark project offers 94 Design Suites that aim to parade completely different but sophisticated interior designs. The interior structure of the Design Suites integrates plenty of functional features to achieve transformative living space with a minimalist design. Some of these features include the “magic TV” concept in which a TV is integrated into a glass surface and will only come to life when switched on, an entire kitchen area that can closed and transformed into a bar setup, as well as a concealed bed and a luxurious watch compartment. Residents will get to enjoy a lavish home life with electronic elements and mood lighting that can be connected to a smart home automation system. A central monument is set at the core of the unit to vertically rise through the entire tower. This glossy black structure naturally divides the iconic building into functional areas that allow the Design Suites to be used as two separate individual zones or as one open space.
Right: M101 chief executive officer Datuk Seth Yap. Above: RED by Sirocco, Kuala Lumpur features a glass-panelled RED Grand Sky Ballroom that offers breathtaking views of KLCC and the the Twin Towers.
Artist impression of M101 Skywheel.
The interior structure of the Design Suites integrates plenty of functional features to achieve transformative living space with minimalist design.
All the Design Suites come in three different layouts and are fully furnished. The first is a two-bedroom unit with built-up area of 1,018 sq ft; second is a one-plus-one bedroom unit with built-up area of 909 sq ft; and the third is another one-plus-one bedroom unit with built-up area of 879 sq ft. Among the facilities that can be enjoyed by residents of the Design Suites are an infinity pool, gym and a sauna, on the 78th floor of the Kuala Lumpur skyscraper.
Moving ahead with confidence Founded in 2012, M101 is optimistic that its list of flagship projects will continue to draw interest from local and international markets. With the tagline “Built to Stay”, M101 aims to provide unique product positioning that ties with the property tourism business strategy. M101 has already kickstarted its hospitality arm, namely Sirocco Hospitality Group (Sirocco), which is positioned as a comprehensive
hospitality consultancy and advisory group. This year will see the opening of M101 Dang Wangi, M101’s maiden development that has a four-star hotel dubbed RED by Sirocco, Kuala Lumpur. The hotel features 143 rooms and promises quality professional services that will complement a visitor’s stay at the KL city centre. Some features and facilities at RED by Sirocco are high-speed internet connection for uninterrupted streaming, USB ports situated at all the right places, coffee machines, art displays by renowned local artists at the hotel lobby, a signature Sky Red Pool, a full glass-panelled RED Grand Sky Ballroom which offers breathtaking views of KLCC and the Twin Towers, and a fully-automated valet parking. In the near future, Sirocco will also be managing a thematic hotel at M101 Bukit Bintang and the Planet Hollywood Suites at M101 Skywheel. M101 plans to spread its wings to other countries including Hong Kong, Taiwan, Indonesia, Singapore, China, Japan, Korea, Philippines, Brunei, Sri Lanka, India and Bangladesh.
Scan for more information
The iconic M101 Skywheel claims... • 1st in the world: An outstanding integrated development designed by Studio F.A. Porsche • 1st in the world: Sky Ferries Wheel on the 52th floor with the highest vantage point of 220m above the ground • 1st in the world: Highest shopping experience at a SkyMall that extends from Level 50 to 52 with over 200,000 sq ft of retail space, diverse product offerings, as well as an MRT station right at the doorstep of the development • 1st in Asia: Bringing the first Planet Hollywood Suites into Asia.
Wednesday 7 February 2018
Starproperty.my
23
24 07 FEBRUARY 2018
Home&living
STARPROPERTY.MY By Ng Pau Ling pauline@thestar.com.my
Old is the foundation for New Heritage buildings give us a better understanding of the present
H
eritage buildings are some of the most precious assets to modern cities. They have withstood the test of time and are pieces of living history that allow us to look back at the past to have a better understanding of the present as we make decisions for the future. To celebrate 2018, StarProperty.my collaborated with artist Ong Siew Guet to create a limited edition calendar featuring her exquisite artworks of historical buildings and sights found within Kuala Lumpur. “Each historical building has a story to tell. They have been there for decades, and have witnessed the growth and colourful past of a particular place. “It reflects the origins of our culture and offers a glimpse as to how people lived in the old days,” said Ong. She first started the collection in 2013, choosing a more meaningful and sentimental way to preserve the historical charm. The first art piece for this series is an old shophouse in Petaling Street, and most of the scenes are located within the heart of Kuala Lumpur. “In art, the theme is usually about life. I’ve been living here for years and I have an emotional connection to this place. The buildings in my artwork may be nothing fancy. It could be just an ordinary shop-lot located nearby. “Photography produces beautiful pictures too, but I would rather depict the scenes by hand. The composition of colours, control of the brush and paint, even my personal feelings and imagination are all part of the artistic expression. “All these have added a warm and human touch to my artworks,” said Ong. However, some of the buildings captured in
StarProperty.my Calendar 2018 Echoing the theme “The way home”, each page of the calendar showcases the artwork by Ong Siew Guet along with tips to help house hunters navigate the buying process smoothly and efficiently. “Home is not just a physical space. It is a place where we gather and connect with each other because of love, and it is the warmest place in the world,” said Ong. Ong’s paintings exist only in living memory, such as the Lok Ann Hotel in Petaling Street which had to make way for new developments. For Ong, it is inevitable that some of the old structures have to make way for progress, but she said there must be a balance between heritage preservation and the growth of a city. “It’s always important to reflect the relationship between an individual, the building and their surrounding environment before we start a new journey. “Demolishing older buildings is not the only solution. Perhaps an alternative is to restore and refurbish the sites to give them new life,” said Ong.
Above: Ong's inspiration for art usually comes from everyday life.
Question: What is the theme for StarProperty.my calendar 2018?
Artist Ong Siew Guet
Discover the meaning behind CNY decorations THE RED LANTERNS Get a few or a lot of red lanterns, depending on how much you want to boost your festive spirit. It is believed that the red Chinese lantern can drive off bad luck. So, make sure that you hang a few lanterns at the entrance to your home. Nearing Chinese New Year, it is very common to see lanterns being hung in shopping malls, neighbourhoods, office buildings and streets. These lanterns are welcomed by all Malaysians, since they give off a sense of warmth and is a pleasure to the eyes.
ORNAMENTS & SYMBOLS There are a few ornaments
that are closely associated with Chinese New Year and used in the past to decorate the house during the festival. It is time to bring these ornaments and symbols out and rejoice in the festive spirit. First, the Chinese gold ingots which are also known as yuanbao or sycee. These are shiny boatshaped gold ingots which represent wealth and prosperity – since they were made of gold in Ancient China. Second, the Chinese knots that are known as good-luck charms. These charms are intricately designed and knotted to give the look of endless knots. Hence, they symbolise longevity and are believed to protect people from evil spirits. Last but not least, the ancient Chinese coins which symbolises wealth and prosperity.
These coins have square holes in the middle. These three ornaments are shiny, creative and meaningful, making them the perfect decorative items during Chinese New Year.
WOODBLOCK PRINTS Woodblock prints are often pasted on the gates of the house during Chinese New Year. These prints feature door gods of which there are two types, namely the marital door god and literary door god. The marital door gods are generals such as Shen Tu, Yu Lei, and Chin Chiung who are clad in full battle armor. Literary door gods are scholars and officials such as San-Hsing, Wu Tze Teng Ke and Chuang Kuan Chin Li.
Win a erty.my p o r P r a t S 018! 2 r a d n e l Ca
Answer the question at bit.ly/SPcalendar-2018 to win a calendar.
Scan to win a calendar
By Tharmini Kenas tharmini@thestar.com.my
T
he best way to welcome a celebration and spread the festive joy is by decorating your home. Chinese New Year is almost here, and it is not too late to start filling your home with all things red and gold to usher in prosperity and good luck. While most of us are no strangers to CNY decorations, it is worth refreshing our memories on why certain decorations have long become a “CNY classic”.
The literary gods are often hung in courtyards and room doors inside the house. Believed to protect the home besides ushering in luck and wealth, these woodblock prints are also great decorative items that add cheer to the house during Chinese New Year.
KITCHEN GOD Another Chinese New Year decoration involves the kitchen god. Many people strongly believe that the kitchen god reports the activities of the household to the heavens at the end of the lunar year. Once the report is delivered, the old image of the kitchen god is replaced by a new picture of that god. This new image is hung during Chinese
New Year. So, make sure your report is a good one and you get merits for your behaviour all year long from the kitchen god!
INVERTED CHARACTERS Another Chinese New Year decoration idea is to paste big diamonds of paper calligraphy with the inverted Chinese character 福 (fú /foo) on the doors of your home. Remember to tilt the square till they resemble the diamond shape. Fu refers to good fortune, and when you paste the character upside down, you want the good fortune to pour on you when you pass through your door.
BLOOMING FLOWERS Flowers are beautiful and commonly used as decorative items in Malaysia. Celebrations across the nation are not complete without flowers and as for Chinese traditions, blooming flowers generally carry the meaning of prosperity and all things good. For instance, orchids symbolise nobility, narcissuses are deemed to signify luck, and peonies represent prosperity and peace. Other commonly used flowers for CNY are plum blossoms, peach blossoms, azaleas, water lilies, chrysanthemums and sunflowers. Go wild with flowers and liven up your home. Gong Xi Fa Chai!