Best of Malaysia - Volume 01 by Sven Boermeester

Best of Malaysia

P u b l i s h e r â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s N o t e

Presenting Malaysia to the World

International Group Publisher Sven Boemeester Publisher & Chief Editor John Lim Project Team Nazhatulshima Bin Mohd Isa Fiona Lim Adeline Chin Creative Production Koh Mooi Leng Max Tan Editorial Team Joni Chng Thiagarajan A/L Duraisamy Shauna Joan Siti Noor Aziah Binti Othman Published by AcePremier.com Sdn Bhd N-2-6 Plaza Damas, 60 Jalan Sri Hartamas 1, 50480 Sri Hartamas, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Tel: +603-6203 2522 Email: info@acepremier.com In association with Global Village Partnerships

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Welcome to the inaugural issue of Best of Malaysia. In June 2015, Malaysia embarks on the 11th and final phase of its five-year developmental plan that was set forth in 1955. Malaysia is also the Chair of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) for 2015, bearing the responsibility of ensuring a more united ASEAN community. With all the global attention the nation receives, the publication of this edition could not have been more perfectly timed. Malaysia has made considerable strides in its push towards the ultimate goal of becoming a high-income economy by the year 2020, mounting up achievements, and surmounting odds amidst challenging times. This volume aims to showcase the best Malaysia has to offer in terms of investment, entrepreneurial opportunities, and leisure travel. Within these pages is an overview of Malaysia as a nation, highlighting the key economic sectors, major travel destinations, and also outlines of exciting growth plans for the near future. We would like to thank all our partners whose support and contributions have made the premier edition of Best of Malaysia possible. It is our hope that this book represents a solid profile of Malaysia as the ideal business and lifestyle destination to a global audience.

Foreword

Message by

PRIME MINISTER MALAYSIA Malaysia, strategically located in the heart of the vibrant Asia Pacific region, is poised to become a developed nation by the year 2020. As Government, we have launched the Economic Transformation Program (ETP) to propel Malaysia into a high-income nation by the year 2020. Our service to the country is paying dividends and although we have faced challenges, we continue to work hard with passion to stimulate growth, improve fiscal position and raise the standards of living. The inaugural Best of Malaysia project makes a valuable contribution to our efforts of economic growth by showcasing our achievements, ambition and aspirations as a nation and in return, inspiring us to continue growing and developing as a country. By celebrating our success with the world, it encourages Malaysians to take pride in our country and strive together to achieve our vision. The true heroes are the Malaysians who have become leaders in business and other arenas. As the Prime Minister of Malaysia, I am pleased to extend my invitation to both local and foreign investors to come and be part of the Government’s vision of transforming Malaysia into a high-income developed nation by 2020. Malaysia offers abundant opportunities for business, trade, investment and the Best of Malaysia is a visual presentation of what investors and visitors can expect in our country. The publication of the Best of Malaysia comes at a very opportune time as Malaysia will be the chair for ASEAN in 2015. We will be taking a proactive role in driving regional economic integration with the ASEAN Economic Community (AEC). I encourage Malaysian entrepreneurs to explore collaboration and partnership opportunities with our ASEAN neighbours to grow into significant regional leaders as ASEAN plays an increasingly important role in the global economy. Congratulations to the Best of Malaysia team for initiating this project to share the success and opportunities of Malaysia globally. The story of our beautiful country and our great nation’s growth and opportunities is being presented in this unique project. I take great pride in all the institutions, companies and individuals featured in the Best of Malaysia. I hope you will be inspired as it is an honour to share the achievements of our great nation with you. 1Malaysia “People First, Performance Now”

DATO’ SRI MOHD NAJIB

Best of Malaysia

Foreword

Message by

MINISTRY OF INTERNATIONAL TRADE AND INDUSTRY Malaysia, as the Chairman of ASEAN for 2015 is poised to take advantage of a booming market of over 600 million consumers and combined GDP of nearly US$3 trillion. The ASEAN Economic Community (AEC) will be declared at the end of 2015 in our collective effort of transforming ASEAN into a region with freer movement of goods, services, investment, skilled labour and freer flow of capital. Our objectives for 2015 are clear — from establishing a peaceful and prosperous ASEAN Community to ensuring a more people centred ASEAN. The Ministry of International Trade and Industry is all geared up to play a proactive role in 2015. In my view, the Best of Malaysia project has come at the right time. I am pleased to see that publishers are supporting our approach in driving regional economic integration. I truly hope that this publication will encourage readers, especially Malaysian entrepreneurs, to explore more collaboration and partnership opportunities with our ASEAN neighbours. Information is the key towards becoming regional champions and the government remains committed in transforming our local industries to be more competitive in this region. The Ministry of International Trade and Industry continues to drive productivity, promoting innovation and formulating policies that will be crucial in creating and enabling an environment that is conducive for business while strengthening our relationship with global trading partners. We are committed in driving the transformation to propel Malaysia into becoming a high-income nation by 2020. While we continue to face challenges at home and abroad, we are confident that our hard work for the country is paying dividends. In 2014, our trade grew 5.9% and we successfully achieve this despite slow recovery in Europe and uncertainties in the global market. Our success stories deserve more recognition. May I take this opportunity to congratulate the publishers for initiating a project to share the success story of Malaysians both home and abroad. I share the Prime Minister’s hope that this publication will inspire Malaysians worldwide and I take pride in sharing the achievement of our great nation with you. MITI Driving Transformation, Powering Growth

DATO’ SRI MUSTAPA MOHAMED

Best of Malaysia

Foreword

Message by

MINISTRY OF TOURISM AND CULTURE Malaysia is a thriving nation with a tropical weather which made it an ideal spot for a wholesome getaway and a perfect place to bask in the good vibes of a multicultural, historical and multiracial environment. Close to many Southeast Asian countries, Malaysia is a strategic location for international tourists; and today, our country is recognized as one of the top holiday destinations in the world. Tourism has been recognized as an important contributor for the country’s economic growth hence being accepted as one of the 12 National Key Economic Areas (NKEA). As such, the Ministry of Tourism and Culture (MOTAC) has throughout the decades steadfastly played a vibrant role towards improving the tourism industry – through activities, programs and the branding of “Malaysia, Truly Asia”. This is also aligned with the Malaysia Transformation Tourism Plan (MTTP), an aspiration to attract 36 million tourists that will generate an income of RM168 billion by the year 2020 and to make Malaysia a world-class holiday destination across the continents. Supporting these great objectives are the vision and mission of MOTAC to advance Malaysia as a travel and cultural pinnacle of the world, to catapult and improve the tourism and cultural sectors of the country and to inculcate, spread and preserve the Malaysian artistic and cultural heritage. I foresee the synergy between tourism and the cultural sectors will provide more support and stimulate the country’s growth thus welcome an influx of global tourists to Malaysia. In carrying out these responsibilities, MOTAC is working together with

12 departments and agencies that are under its wings namely; Tourism Malaysia, National Archives of Malaysia, National Library of Malaysia, Department of Museums Malaysia, Department of National Heritage, National Department for Culture & Arts, Istana Budaya, National Academy of Arts, Culture & Heritage, Malaysian Handicraft Development Corporation, National Visual Art Development Board, Malaysia Convention & Exhibition Bureau and Islamic Tourism Centre. The publication of Best of Malaysia is timely as it aids and fulfills the vision and mission of MOTAC. Through this volume’s collection of appealing images and useful information, we are able to put our unique attractions in the spotlight – such as our beautiful white sandy beaches and islands, our world’s most biodiverse forests and so on. All this will bring tremendous benefits to hoteliers, travel and recreational agencies, private companies, sponsors, governmental departments and agencies as well as organizers of cultural shows, in addition to offering them appreciation for their involvement and contribution to the cultural and tourism industry. In all, Best of Malaysia offers information from many aspects about Malaysia including the success and potentials of Malaysia to progress forward and to be seen by all in a positive light. On behalf of MOTAC, I wish to congratulate the publisher, Ace Premier, for producing this meaningful representation of Malaysia. We are pleased to share the exceptional elements and culture of our beloved country to the world.

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MOT

CHAPTERS BEST OF MALAYSIA

Property Development 108

Healthcare 124

Construction 112

Education & Learning 128

Infrastructure 116

Conference & Exhibition 134

Logistics 120

Retail & Trading 138

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Oil & Gas 144

Electrical & Electronics 164

Timber & Wood 148

Media & Entertainment 168

Plantation & Agriculture 152

Banking & Finance 172

Automotive 156

Charity 176

Courier & Delivery 160

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MALAYSIA THE RISING STAR OF ASIA Looking to the future while cherishing the past, Malaysia is a fast growing country in the dynamic Asian region. Centuries of trading history combined with a vibrant economy makes it an attractive business and investment destination.

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FACTS ON MALAYSIA

Total Area

330,000 square kilometres (127,000 square miles)

Political Structure

A federation with 13 states (11 in Peninsular Malaysia and 2 in Malaysian Borneo) and 3 federal territories. As a federation, the governance of the country is divided between the federal and the state governments.

System of Government

Parliamentary democracy with a constitutional monarch

Head of State

DYMM Yang di-Pertuan Agong Tuanku Abdul Halim Mu’adzam Shah

Prime Minister

YAB Dato’ Sri Mohd. Najib Bin Tun Hj. Abd. Razak

Population

30.3 million (2014)

Major Ethnic Groups

Malay, Chinese, Indian, Kadazan, Iban

Major Languages

Bahasa Malaysia (official language), English, Mandarin, Tamil

Major Religions

Islam, Buddhism, Christianity, Hinduism

Time

GMT +8 hours

Climate

Tropical – warm and sunny throughout the year. Daily temparatures range from 33°C (90°F) in the afternoon to 22°C (70°F) during the night.

Currency

Ringgit Malaysia (RM)

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MALAYSIA

KEY ECONOMIC INDICATORS 2014 Population

30.3 million

GDP

RM835 billion

GDP Growth

Per Capita Income

RM34,123 (USD10,426)

Inflation Rate (CPI)

3.2%

Labour Force

14 million persons

Unemployment

2.9%

Total Export (f.o.b)

RM726 billion

Total Import (c.i.f)

RM601 billion

Major Exports Products* (Jan - Dec 2014)

• • • • • •

Electrical and electronic products Petroleum products Liquefied natural gas (LNG) Chemicals and chemical products Palm oil Crude petroleum

Major Export Markets* (Jan - Dec 2014)

• • • • •

Singapore People’s Republic of China Japan USA Thailand

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AT THE CENTRE OF TRADE AND CULTURAL EXCHANGE

Much of Malaysiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s history was greatly influenced by its strategic position at an important crossroad in the world, whereby geographical circumstances made it a convenient meeting place for traders from the east and west. Adding to its favourable location was the abundance of natural resources to be mined, fertile lands and bountiful waters.

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The early settlers to inhabit Malaysia were seafarers and farmers who built an economy off the land’s natural bounty. Malaysia first gained global notice as early as the 15th century, with the establishment of the Malacca Sultanate. The land prospered and became one of the most influential trading ports in Southeast Asia. The economy and commerce thrived due to the northeast and southwest monsoon winds that allowed traders bearing goods from Arabia, China and India to sail across the Straits of Malacca, not only to the city’s port, but also to neighbouring cities and states. Malacca’s prosperity came to the notice of the Portuguese whom arrived in 1511, thus beginning Malaysia’s long history of European colonisation. The arrival of the Portuguese was followed by the Dutch about a century later, whom were then succeeded by the British Empire that managed to establish the longest presence

of foreign power throughout the country since the 1700s. Under British rule, the immigration of Chinese and Indians to serve as labourers were encouraged; an event which helps create the multicultural fabric of Malaysian society as we know today. After centuries under colonisation, the first Prime Minister of Malaysia, Tunku Abdul Rahman spearheaded the effort for independence by leading a team of political leaders to negotiate with the British for independence. An agreement was reached and Malaysia – then known as Malaya – finally achieved independence on August 31st, 1957. The nation of Malaysia only came into being in 1961, when Singapore, Sabah, and Sarawak joined Malaya in a federal union. Singapore later opted out of the union peacefully, in 1965. The Federation of Malaysia at present consists of 13 states and three federal territories.

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TROPICAL WONDER

Malaysia is located in the Southeast region of Asia, and consists of two parts of land – a peninsula and two eastern states of Sabah and Sarawak on the Borneo Island, separated by the South China Sea. The Peninsula, commonly known as West Malaysia, shares a land border with Thailand in the northern states of Kedah, Perlis, Perak and Kelantan. In addition, the southernmost state of Johor is linked to Singapore by a narrow causeway and bridge. On the eastern region, Sabah borders with Indonesia, whereas Brunei forms an enclave in Sarawak. Due to its position at Earth’s equator, Malaysia is subject to a tropical climate with temperatures ranging around 25 to 35 degrees Celsius throughout the year. Being equatorial means Malaysia’s winds are characterised by the annual southwest monsoon from April to October, followed by the northeast monsoon which lasts until February.

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The weather is usually warm and humid around most cities. Fortunately, Malaysiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s topography is filled with mountainous range and rainforests, with coasts dotted by islands. Cooler temperatures and breeziness can be enjoyed at the numerous islands. The air is even colder atop the peak of mountains and highlands throughout the country. The occasional rainfall is expected all year long, despite the hot weather. However, heavy downpour for days on end is also common, especially during the southwest monsoon season. Despite the extreme weather conditions that constantly shift from scorching heat to heavy rains, Malaysia is known for being safe from major natural disasters like typhoons, earthquakes and tsunamis.

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THE STATES AND FEDERAL TERRITORIES OF MALAYSIA

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Malaysia is made up of 13 states and three federal territories. There are 11 states and two federal territories located on the peninsula, also known as West Malaysia. The two other states are on the island of Borneo, and the remaining federal territory is a cluster of islands offshore of the region, forming the part of the country collectively known as East Malaysia. Each state has their own assembly and government headed by a chief minister. Of all 13 states, nine of them have monarchies, with a hereditary ruler. The states of Kedah, Selangor, Kelantan, Johor, Perak, Pahang and Terengganu are headed by a Sultan, while Perlis is ruled by a Raja, and Negeri Sembilan by a Yang DiPertuan Besar. The remaining four states without a monarcy – Penang, Malacca, Sabah and Sarawak – have appointed governors (Yang Di-Pertua Negeri) in equivalent positions.

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Perlis Situated in at the northwestern extremity of the Peninsula Malaysia, Perlis is the smallest state in Malaysia. Also known by its official name Perlis Indera Kayangan (loosely translated to mean ‘land of the gods’), the state is known for its unspoilt rural natural environment where life is less stressful. The capital city is Kangar, and the state’s economy is based on agriculture, with rice, sugar and fruits followed by forestry and fishing.

Kedah Known as the rice bowl state, Kedah has a landscape dominated by lush green paddy fields, dotted by traditional Malay houses, coconut palms, local fruit trees, and endless rolling hills. Off its western shores are clusters of islands that make up the archipelago of Langkawi, easily the most popular island resorts in the country.

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Kedah’s capital city, Alor Setar, is centrally situated where access to the Thai border and the rest of the state is convenient. The major industries in Kedah are rice, rubber and tourism. The Arabic honorific of Kedah is Darul Aman (‘Abode of Peace’).

Penang The state of Penang is geographically and administratively divided into two sections, an island and a strip of mainland opposite the island known as Seberang Perai, separated by a channel 3km wide and linked by the 13.5km Penang Bridge. Known as the ‘Pearl of the Orient’, the island state is famous for beautiful beaches, an assortment of unique local cuisines, and lively nightlife scene. Elegant buildings that are remnants of Malaysia’s British colonization can be seen in its capital, George Town. Penang is

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Malaysia’s third-largest economy after Selangor and Johor. Manufacturing is the most important sector, along with tourism, finance, shipping and the service industry.

Perak The second largest state in Peninsula Malaysia, Perak carries the Arabic honorific of Darul Ridzuan (‘Abode of Grace’). Full of old world charm, the capital city of Ipoh features many old buildings and structures, while the town of Taiping has the country’s oldest museum, the oldest zoo and the cool highland resort of Maxwell Hill (Bukit Larut). The name of the state literally translates to ‘silver’ in Malay. This is a reference to Perak’s abundance of tin, the mineral that is the main driver of its economy. Other than tin mining, Perak is also known for palm oil, manufacturing and local fruit farming.

Selangor The heartland of the nation and state that surrounds the Federal Territories of Kuala Lumpur and Putrajaya, Selangor is the most developed city in Malaysia. Within Selangor is Klang Valley, the industrial hub containing the capital city Shah Alam, cities Petaling Jaya, Klang and the second largest port in Malaysia, Port Klang. Selangor is also home to most higher learning institutions, and the nation’s most advanced infrastructures. With a bustling economy of industrial, commercial and tourism activities, Selangor is also the centre of arts, and entertainment.

Putrajaya Considered Malaysia’s most intelligent garden city, Putrajaya is Malaysia’s new administrative capital and third federal territory after Kuala Lumpur and Labuan. As the principal seat of government, it is where all the Federal Government ministries, departments and agencies are situated. The city’s planning is based on a futuristic model city with lush greenery that coexists along state-of-the-art infrastructures and modern amenities. The city was developed to ease Kuala Lumpur of congestion and to ensure continued economic growth in the Klang Valley.

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Kuala Lumpur The Federal Territory of Kuala Lumpur is the nation’s capital city. What started out as a tin mining town is now a modern metropolis where everything hip and happening in the nation takes place. The city boasts some of the most iconic buildings, such as the PETRONAS Twin Towers and KL Tower.

Negeri Sembilan The name Negeri Sembilan translated literally as ‘nine states’; so called because it once consisted of nine separate districts, each ruled by a different chieftain. The state’s capital, Seremban, is only 50 kilometres away from the capital city of Kuala Lumpur. Negeri Sembilan is also known for the seaside town of Port

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Dickson, a popular seaside getaway. Tourists to the state will be captivated by its rustic villages, lush forests with splendid waterfalls, and clear river streams. Negeri Sembilan’s economy consists mainly of agricultural and farming activities such as rubber, palm oil, livestock, fruit orchards and vegetable farms. The state is also productive in manufacturing activities, including electrical and electronics, textiles, furniture, chemicals, machinery, metal works and rubber products.

Malacca Rich in history and heritage, Malacca is a place to truly experience Malaysia’s diversity. Facing the Straits of Malacca, the state was once of the most influential trading

ports in Asia, making it a gathering point for traders from both east and west. Today, the intermingling of various cultures is reflected in the architecture of homes and buildings in Malacca city, its capital. In addition to being a tourist hub, Malacca is also a manufacturer for various products, especially food and consumer products, automotive components and electronic parts.

Johor The southernmost state on the peninsula, Johor is the country’s second largest economy. Its leading sectors are agriculture, especially rubber, palm oil and pineapples. Due to its proximity to Singapore and the development of the Iskandar Malaysia economic zone, Johor is industrialising rapidly. The state’s

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capital, Johor Bahru is linked to Singapore by road and railway. With modern towns developing in spite of picturesque rural villages, Johor is a state that offers an exciting metropolitan atmosphere while retaining some charm from the olden days. The official name of the state is Johor Darul Ta’zim (‘Abode of Dignity’).

Pahang Being the largest state in Peninsular Malaysia, Pahang is dominated by vast stretches of rainforest that houses exotic flora, fauna and wildlife. Additionally, the state is rich in agricultural and natural resources, from palm oil, rubber and cocoa, to timber and fisheries. It is also a favourite eco-tourism destination, with famous highland resorts, waterfalls, fishing villages and beaches. The state capital is Kuantan, while at the heart of Pahang is Taman Negara, Malaysia’s oldest national park. Hence, it is easy to see why the state deserves the honorific of Darul Makmur (‘Abode of Tranquility’).

Kelantan Located in the northeast corner of the peninsula, Kelantan is home to colourful traditions, and also vast beaches and rainforests. The official state name is Kelantan Darul Naim (‘The Beautiful Abode’), and its capital city is Kota Bharu. Rice and tobacco farming are two of the state’s major produces. Other produces include rubber, palm oil, and fruits. Fishing is also an important industry. Regarded

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the ‘Cradle of Malaysian Culture’, Kelantan is the place to catch a glimpse of Malay culture. The traditional sports like giant kite-flying, top-spinning, and Silat are regularly held throughout the state. Other cultural arts like shadow puppetry (wayang kulit), dances and bird-singing competitions remain fixtures in Kelantan. The state is also home to cottage industries like handicrafts, batik printing and weaving.

Terengganu Located on the northeastern coast of Peninsular Malaysia, Terengganu is endowed with a wealth of breathtaking natural landscapes which remains largely unaffected by modern developments. In fact, there are nine islands off its coast that are gazetted as a marine park, including a turtle conservation area. The coastal city of Kuala Terengganu is the state capital. Though already a tourist destination, the state’s economy receives a boost with the discovery of oil and gas along its coast. Terengganu is also traditionally famous for its boat building industry.

Sabah Home to over 30 different indigenous groups and unique cultures, Sabah is a land with plenty to explore. Its capital being Kota Kinabalu, the state is also home to Southeast Asia’s highest peak – Mount Kinabalu, along with a number of national parks, some of the most beautiful diving sites, and the renowned

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Sepilok Orang Utan Sanctuary. Oil, mineral resources and timber make the state an important player in the Malaysian economy. Sabah is also known as ‘The Land Below the Wind’, because of its geographical location that is below the typhoon belt.

Sarawak The largest Malaysian state, Sarawak is best known as the land of vastness in terms of ethnic diversity, natural wonders and land mass. Known as the ‘Land of the Hornbills’, roughly three quarters of Sarawak’s landmass is still covered with the world’s oldest tropical rainforest that houses exotic and fascinating flora, fauna and wildlife. Sarawak is also where one of the world’s largest and impressive networks of caves can be found. The capital city of Kuching is the state’s most populated city, and also the fourth largest

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city in Malaysia. Besides it’s natural wonders, Sarawak is also rich in oil and gas, timber, sago and pepper.

Labuan Formerly part of Sabah, Labuan was given federal territory status in I984. Its capital city is Bandar Labuan. Besides being well known as an international offshore financial centre, Labuan is also fast becoming popular as an island resort. Its water is rich in marine life and offers many fishing spots all year round. Additionally, there are several historical ship wreck sites that proves to be a draw for curious diving enthusiasts. Perhaps Labuan’s biggest attraction is its duty-free status, making it a paradise for shoppers. Along with its financial sector, Labuan is also a hub for oil and gas production and related industries.

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A SOVEREIGN, DEMOCRATIC AND INDEPENDENT NATION

Malaysia follows a federal constitutional monarchy structure of governance, which is a legacy left by British colonisation. Modelled after the Westminster Parliamentary system, the Yang di-Pertuan Agong (the King) is the paramount ruler and Head of State, while the Prime Minister is the Head of Government. The paramount ruler is selected for a fiveyear term among the nine Sultans of the Malay states. The appointed governors (Yang Di-Pertua Negeri) of four other states with no monarchy do not participate in the

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selection. The King will also act as leader of the Islamic faith. Presently, Sultan Abdul Halim Muâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;adzam Shah of Kedah is the 14th Yang di-Pertuan Agong, succeeding the title from Sultan Mizan Zainal Abidin of Terengganu in 2011.

Ranks of Authority The Federal Government is the highest authority in the nation, headed by the Prime Minister, with administration based in the federal territory of Putrajaya. The Government is composed of members from two Houses of Congress: the Senate

(Dewan Negara), and the House of Representatives, also commonly known as House of Commons (Dewan Rakyat). There are 70 members of the Senate with a six-year term of office; 44 of them are appointed by the King, whereas 26 were elected by the 13 states. At the House of Representatives, the 222 members are elected from individual districts by popular votes to serve a maximum of five years in office. As stated by the Constitution, the Prime Minister is the indirectly elected Head of Government of Malaysia. He is officially appointed by the King, who deemed him suitable to command the confidence of the majority of the members in the House of Representatives. Since 2009 until present, Dato’ Sri Mohd. Najib Tun Razak has held office as the sixth Prime Minister of Malaysia.

Directly under the Federal Government are the individual state governments, each with their own State Legislative Assembly (Dewan Undangan Negeri), led by the appointed chief ministers. Lastly, at the lowest rank of governance are the local authorities, authorised to collect taxes, grant license and permits to businesses and trade, and uphold the various regulations in its area of jurisdiction. Additionally, it is also the local authority’s duty to provide basic amenities, manage peace, and also oversee the planning and development of its designated area.

Representatives, and State level to vote for membership in various State Legislative Assemblies.

Two Legal Systems Malaysia’s constitution allows for a unique dual justice system. The main legal system is based on the English Common Law. Under this judiciary system, there are written laws which have been passed in the Constitution, and unwritten laws which are not stated anywhere, but can only be found in case decisions by a judge. The secondary justice system is based on the Islamic Sharia laws, which applies only to Muslim individuals.

General Elections While it is constitutional that a general election must be held at least once every five years, the King has the authority to dissolve parliament and call for an election anytime. Malaysia’s general elections exist at two levels: the national level to vote for membership in the House of

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TOWARDS A GLOBAL HIGH-INCOME ECONOMY Malaysia started out as a producer of raw materials – mainly tin, rubber, and palm oil – in the 1970s because of the abundant availability of these resources. The nation’s economic growth is largely attributed to better optimisation of natural, mineral and human resources. Backed by government policies and programmes that foster economic development since 1955, with the implementation of the First Malaysia Plan – a five year economic transformation blueprint, Malaysia is able to diversify its economy. In fact, growth has been rapid and steady since the late 1990s, despite the 1997-98 Asian economic crisis. Indeed, Malaysia has one of the highest living standards in Southeast Asia. Essentially a trade-oriented and open economy, export is one of the sectors that spurred Malaysia’s growth, to consistently achieve more than 7% in Gross Domestic Product (GDP) since the 1980s. This resulted in the country developing a more

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industrialised economy, and become a leading exporter of electrical goods, electronic parts and components, ICT products and natural gases. The country’s economy benefitted immensely from the demand for raw materials due to the progress in heavy industries in the Far East and the western hemisphere. Currently, Malaysia’s top export destinations and main sources of foreign investments are Singapore, China, Japan and the USA. Besides export and industrialisation, Malaysia’s oil and gas industry supplies roughly 32% of government revenues. In the finance and banking sector, Malaysia is one of the leaders in Islamic finance outside of the Middle East. Other profitable sectors include tourism, and knowledgebased services in the field of science and technological developments. In spite of all the progress, the government continues to stimulate growth by introducing more business-friendly policies, improving

infrastructures, and implementing various initiatives to encourage entrepreneurship, technological advancement, and foreign investments. The ultimate goal is to propel Malaysia towards high-income status by 2020 while ensuring that growth is also sustainable, and wealth is equality distributed among the population.

The most significant initiative is the launching of the New Economic Model (NEM) in 2010, which charts a number of reforms for achieving economic growth that is primarily driven by the private sector, moving the economy into higher value-added activities in both industry and services.

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A KALEIDOSCOPE OF CULTURES

Malaysiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s multiculturalism stems from having an interesting course of history. Having been an influential trade and commerce hub for merchants all over the world since ancient times, Malaysia was also essentially a hub for cross-cultural exchange for centuries. Hence, the Malaysian society today is a kaleidoscope of cultures, co-existing and intermingling in harmony.

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A KALEIDOSCOPE OF

CULTURES Best of Malaysia

The three main ethnic groups in Malaysia are the Malays, Chinese, and Indians. Being the largest ethnic group, the Malays make up more than half of the population. Individuals of Malay descend practice Islam and speak the Malay language as their mother tongue. The second largest ethnic group, the Chinese, are mostly decedents of immigrants who arrived during the 19th century. Although most Malaysian Chinese are Mandarin literate, the community is made up of several sub-groups who speak different Chinese dialects. The most common of these dialects include Hokkien, Cantonese, Hakka and Teochew. Finally, the Indians

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in Malaysia are mostly descendants of Tamil-speaking South Indians immigrants who came to the country during the British colonial rule. Besides the major ethnic groups, Malaysia is also home to a myriad of indigenous ethnic groups and tribes with their own unique language, culture and heritage. In the peninsular, the indigenous people are generally referred to as Orang Asli (literally meaning â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;original peopleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;). There are three main tribes of Orang Asli; the Negrito, the Senoi and the Proto-Malay. Over in East Malaysia, Sabah has over 32 recognised ethnic groups, the largest of these being

the Kadazan Dusun, the Bajau and the Murut. Most of the indigenous groups of Sabah are seafarers and agricultural communities. In the neighbouring Sarawak, there are over 40 ethnic and sub-ethnic groups. The major indigenous groups are the Iban, Bidayuh and Orang Ulu, known collectively as the Dayaks. Traditional Dayak communities live in longhouses that can accommodate from 20 to 100 families. Within the myriad of ethnic groups are unique cultures that can only be found in the intricate fabric of Malaysian society. A notable example is a subgroup in the Chinese community known as the Peranakan people â&#x20AC;&#x201C; also known as Baba-Nyonyas or Straits Chinese. These are decedents of 15th to 17th century Chinese immigrants to the Malay Peninsula and British Malaya, whom then embraced the local customs through intermarriage, and thus establishing a distinctive culture and heritage of their own. Malaysiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s cultural diversity is reflected in almost every aspect of the nation; in the food, architecture, the arts, lifestyle, and especially in the myriad of cultural and religious festivities that take place whole year round.

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Hari Raya Aidilfitri Commonly known as Eid Al-Fitr in other predominantly Muslim nations, Hari Raya Aidilfitri celebrates the first day of Syawal, which is the 10th month of the Muslim calendar, after a month of fasting during the previous month of Ramadan. This major Muslim festival is a time for family gatherings and open houses. This joyful day is ushered in with prayers in mosques and visiting the graves of departed loved ones.

Chinese New Year The first day of the Chinese lunar calendar marks the most important festival of the Chinese community that lasts for a full two weeks. Celebration begins with a family reunion dinner on the eve. On the auspicious day itself, thundering of drums and clang of cymbals accompanying lion dances will

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be filling the air around town. It is a time for friends and relatives to visit one another, and for children and unmarried adults to be given gifts of money enclosed in red envelopes.

Deepavali Known as the Hindu festival of light, Deepavali is a celebration of the day when the forces of good overcame the forces of evil. Hence, the homes of Hindus will be lit with little oil lamps to signify the victory of light over darkness. On the day of the celebration, devotees will take an oil bath in the wee hours of the morning, attend prayers, and then hold an open house to entertain guests who come by for a visit.

Christmas Although it does not snow in the tropics, Malaysians celebrate the birth of Christ in the true traditional style each year. Homes

of Christians are decorated with all the trappings of the season to usher in the Yuletide spirit. Companies and schools would organise parties where everyone exchanges gifts on days leading up to Christmas, and churches hold midnight masses on the eve.

Gawai Dayak Celebrated by the Dayaks of Sarawak who live in longhouses, Gawai Dayak is a major celebration for the indigenous community where festivities last for a week. It is a thanksgiving festival for the bountiful harvest and also a time to rest from work before the new planting season. Gawai Dayak is celebrated with primitive rituals, huge gatherings, contests, drinking

and dancing. The celebration is an official public holiday in the state of Sarawak on 31st May and 1st June every year.

National Day and Malaysia Day August 31st 1957 was the day Malaysia became officially independent of British colonial rule. Another significant day in Malaysian history is September 16th, which marks the day Singapore, Sabah and Sarawak joined the federation back in 1965 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; hence, observed as Malaysia Day. Each year, various parades, cultural events and festivals are held nationwide on these two historic days to commemorate Malaysiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s hard-won freedom from foreign power, and unity as a nation.

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A PARADISE FOR SHOPPERS AND FOODIES It is commonly said among Malaysians that shopping is a national pastime, while food is a national obsession. After all, there are over 50 shopping malls across the country, over 20 in Greater Kuala Lumpur, mostly concentrated within the Golden Triangle nearby Bukit Bintang. Whether it is luxury goods, the latest tech gadgets or fashionable apparels, the retail havens in most cities have a store for it. In fact, countless international brands and designer labels have stores all over Malaysia. There are also bazaars and flea markets in most towns, where local businesses set up shop, offering unique made-in-Malaysia goods, from antiques to travel souvenirs to food products. These are places where one can haggle for a good price. Famous bazaars traveller would not want to miss are the Jonker Night Market in Malacca, Petaling Street, and

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Kasturi Walk in downtown Kuala Lumpur. A rule of thumb when shopping at a bazaar: always bargain, especially when there is no price tag in sight. There are also duty-free shops around tourist-centric areas, where tobacco products, alcohol, chocolate and perfumes are especially cheap. The entire islands of Langkawi, Tioman and Labuan are designated dutyfree zones. When it comes to food, eating out is not only common and cheaper than cooking in Malaysia, but is also part of the Malaysian lifestyle. Malaysians love catching up with friends and family over mealtime. Rice is a staple food, as most Malaysian cuisines are based on rice or noodles. Sharing is also part of the custom at the dining table, as it is common to order several dishes to be mixed with rice and shared among the dining party.

Among the most well-known Malay cuisines are the Nasi Lemak, Satay and Rendang Chicken. Chinese cuisines not to be missed are Char Kuey Teow, Wanton Noodles, Kampung Fried Rice and Loh Bak â&#x20AC;&#x201C; all of which are hawker favourites. Notable Indian foods are the Roti Canai, Murtabak and Tosai, which are available in different varieties. With the country being a melting pot of cultures, there are plenty of fusion dishes and desserts that are uniquely Malaysian. Examples of these are the Laksa, Mamak Fried Noodles, the Rojak, and desserts such as Ais Kacang and Cendol. The best of Malaysian food is often enjoyed at hawker centres, where a cluster of stalls can be found, each offering something different. Renowned hawker centres among tourists are Jalan Alor in Kuala Lumpur, Gurney Hawker Centre in Penang, and Mutiara Bay in Langkawi Island. Enjoying lunch or dinner by hawker stalls is so ingrained in Malaysian life that modern shopping complexes and megamalls tend to have food court areas, with the eclectic choices of food similar to a hawker centre. In big cities like Greater KL and Klang Valley, the fun does not end at night because at 10PM is when the nightlife scene comes to life. There is no shortage of bars, pubs and clubs for party goers around town. From Bangsarâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s cocktail bars to the trendy nightclubs at Bukit Bintang, there is always somewhere exciting to be seen and heard when the sun goes down.

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NATIONAL ICONS As Head of the Government, the Prime Minister of Malaysia plays a crucial role in the transformation and development of the nation. Since its independence from British colonial rule in 1957, Malaysia has been under the capable leadership of six successive prime ministers, each leaving behind a legacy that continues to shape the course of the nation’s progress.

Tunku Abdul Rahman Putra Al Haj (1957 - 1970)

Tun Hussein Onn (1976 - 1981)

Tun Abdullah Ahmad Badawi (2003 - 2009)

Known as Malaysia’s Father of Independence, Tunku Abdul Rahman’s determination to end the rampant social injustice and racial segregation led him to initiate the quest for the nation’s freedom from foreign power. Tunku was the seventh prince of the Sultan of Kedah. After completing his law studies at Cambridge University, he became actively involved in politics upon returning to his homeland, and eventually assuming the chairmanship of the United Malays National Organisation (UMNO). In 1956, he led an alliance to London for an audience with the British government to negotiate for Malaysia’s independence. The meeting resulted in the signing of the Independent Treaty at Lancaster House in London on 8th February, 1956. Subsequently, Malaysia officially gained independence on 31st August of 1957, with Tunku as the first Prime Minister.

Born into a family with solid patriotic and political roots, Tun Hussein Onn’s foray into politics was an inevitability. He was the son of Malayan freedom fighter and UMNO founder, Dato’ Onn Jaafar. Tun Hussein won the general elections in 1969, and was then appointed as the education minister. He would go on to become Deputy Prime Minister on August 13th, 1973, and eventually succeeding Tun Abdul Razak as Prime Minister three years later. Throughout his tenure, Tun Hussein Onn was renowned for his attention and efforts in striving for unity through policies aimed at resolving economic inequalities between the communities.

Commonly known to Malaysians as Pak Lah, Tun Abdullah graduated from University of Malaya in Islamic Studies and joined the civil service thereafter. In 1978, he resigned from his position and joined politics, and eventually held the post of Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department from 1981 to 1984. Pak Lah went on to become Minister of Education from 1984 to 1986, Minister of Defence from 1986 to 1987, and Minister of Foreign Affairs from 1991 to 1999. In January 1999, he was appointed the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Home Affairs, subsequently succeeding Tun Mahathir as Prime Minister in 2003.

Tun Dr. Mahathir Mohamad (1981 - 2003)

Dato’ Seri Najib Razak (2009 - Present)

As the longest-serving Prime Minister with a political career spanning almost 40 years, Tun Mahathir is often credited as Malaysia’s Father of Modernisation. A medical doctor by profession, Tun Mahathir, was appointed a Senator in 1973, and was made the Deputy Prime Minister in addition to holding the portfolio of the Education Minister in 1976. Under his leadership, Malaysia underwent a period of rapid modernisation, innovation and economic growth. Bold and massive infrastructure projects including the PETRONAS Twin Towers, the construction of the NorthSouth Expressway, Putrajaya and the establishment of car manufacturer Proton were among his brainchildren. Tun Mahathir also introduced Vision 2020, an ideal which aimed to transform Malaysia into a self-sufficient economy.

Malaysia’s sixth and current Prime Minister, Dato’ Sri Najib is an industrial economist who started his political career in 1976, at an early age of 23. He is the eldest son of Malaysia’s second Prime Minister, and the nephew of Malaysia’s third Prime Minister. Since his political participation, Datuk Seri Najib has held various posts in Malaysia’s Cabinet, including Deputy Minister of Energy, Telecommunications and Post, Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports, Minister of Defence, Minister of Education and Deputy Prime Minister. Dato’ Sri Najib took on the role of Prime Minister on 3rd of April 2009 with the aim of transforming Malaysia into a high-income country through the New Economic Model (NEM). The plan will serve as a blueprint to boost productivity and increase foreign investments.

Tun Abdul Razak Hussein (1970 - 1976) A lawyer by training who joined the civil service in 1950, Tun Abdul Razak had a talent for politics which led to his appointment as UMNO’s youth chief, and eventually as the state of Pahang’s Chief Minister at the young age of 33. During the tenure of Tunku Abdul Rahman as Prime Minster, he rose through the ranks to become the Deputy Prime Minister and Defense Minister (1957–70) and Minister of Rural Development (1959–69). With his sights set on gradually eradicating poverty and identification of economic function with race, Tun Abdul Razak introduced the New Economy Policy (NEP) in 1971, when he came into office.

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Datoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Seri Najib Razak

Tun Abdullah Ahmad Badawi Tun Dr .Mahathir Mohamad

Tun Hussein Onn

Tunku Abdul Rahman Putra Al Haj

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Dato’ Siti Nurhaliza

FAMOUS PERSONALITIES Malaysia has nurtured and given rise to notable high-achieving individuals in various fields, from artists and athletes, to scientists and entrepreneurs. Their achievements have spanned across international borders and broken barriers that many have not done before, thus making the nation proud for putting Malaysia before the eyes of the world, as a force to be reckoned with.

Dato’ Siti Nurhaliza Being a singer, songwriter, producer, television presenter and businesswoman, Dato’ Siti Nurhaliza is a woman of many talents. Dubbed Malaysia’s Pop Princess, she made her debut at the age of 16, and has received more than 200 local and international awards. Her most notable achievement was being crowned the Voice of Asia, after winning the Grand Prix Champion title at the Voice of Asia singing competition, held in Almaty, Kazakhstan. In 2008, she was named one of Asia’s idols by Asia News Network. Datuk Dr. Sheikh Muszaphar Shukor

Datuk Dr. Sheikh Muszaphar Shukor On October 10th 2007, Datuk Dr. Sheikh Muszaphar created history by being the first Malaysian to explore outer space, where he blasted off with two other astronauts from the Baikonur Cosmodrome in Kazakhstan to the International Space Station. During his nine days on the space station, the orthopaedic surgeon took the

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opportunity to perform various scientific tests and experiments. Upon returning to earth, he joined and contributed to space research programmess. Datuk Dr. Sheikh Muszaphar also organised various motivational talks to inspire and encourage others to follow their dreams.

Datuk Nicol Ann David Currently the world number one women’s squash player and the first Asian woman to achieve the title, Datuk Nicol has won the World Open title a record 8 times in 2005, 2006, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012 and 2014. She is also a five-time British Open title holder, in 2005, 2006, 2008, 2012 and 2014. In 2004, she was given the honour of carrying Malaysia’s Olympic torch during the build-up to the games in Athens, and was also appointed the UNDP National Goodwill Ambassador for Malaysia that same year.

Dato’ Jimmy Choo, OBE

Dato’ Michelle Yeoh

A household name in the fashion world, particularly when it comes to glamorous luxury footwear, Dato’ Jimmy has a clientele that consists of Hollywood stars and royalties. One of his most faithful patrons was the late Princess Diana. The Penang-born designer made his first pair of shoes at the tender age of 11, picking up the craft from his shoemaker father. He went to London in 1983 to study at the London College of Fashion, and received his big break when his shoes made into an eight-page spread of British Vogue. For his achievements and contribution to the fashion world, Dato’ Jimmy was awarded the Order of the British Empire (OBE) in 2002.

From humble beginnings in the small town of Ipoh, Dato’ Michelle Yeoh kicked her way into prominence as Malaysia’s most successful international movie star, known from Hong Kong to Hollywood. Her career blossomed when she acted along mega action star Jackie Chan in The Police Story 3, where she performed all of her own stunts. Her star continued to rise following her appearance in a highly acclaimed James Bond film, Tomorrow Never Dies, alongside Pierce Brosnan. Dato’ Michelle went on to star in a string of successful international blockbusters, such as The Mummy 3, Memoirs of Geisha, Babylon A.D., and the Oscar-winning Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon,

Dato’ Jimmy Choo

Dato’ Michelle Yeoh

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THE HEART OF THE NATION Kuala Lumpur has its humble beginning as a tin mining town in the mid 19th century. Its economy has seen a lot of ups and downs after the nation’s independence from the British rule, but begin advancing by leaps and bounds since the 90s Asia’s Economic Boom. The city has since been transformed into a modern metropolis, boasting some iconic skyscrapers lining its landscape. What makes a city an ideal place to live and work in really depends on the vibrancy of its community, along with the progression and sustainability of city’s economy. As Malaysia moves towards its aspirations of becoming a higher gross national income nation, the Greater Kuala Lumpur and Klang Valley (GKL/KV) – the area that extends beyond the boundaries of the capital city, covered by 10 municipalities – is committed to making great strides towards becoming an even more liveable city. As Malaysia’s pillar for economic growth, the thriving metropolis continues to have a strong

economic pull on people from various parts of the country and all over the world. With ever-improving modern amenities, plenty of job opportunities and inhabitants that are mostly English literate, GKL/ KV prove to be a viable place for business and career growth that also happens to be an easily adaptable living environment. It is no wonder that the population of GKL/KV has reached roughly seven million – a large chunk of them consisting of expatriates and immigrants.

Connectivity and Convenience Kuala Lumpur’s inherent competitive advantage lies in the fact that it is located at the intersecting international air and sea travel routes, as well as European and Pacific time zones. This places the city within a three-hour flight radius to most ASEAN capitals and a six to eight-hour radius to other key business centres of the world, such as Tokyo, Hong Kong, Beijing, Bangalore, Dubai and Sydney. Hence, the capital city and its surrounding areas are often perceived as the gateway that

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connects the ASEAN, Asia and other global market places. It also helps that the increasing availability of budget air travel has made travelling to and from Kuala Lumpur more affordable. Within the GKL/KV, a reliable network of highways and train lines are available to make for hassle-free commute and smooth flow in the delivery of goods and services. As there is no doubt that well-developed infrastructures reduce the cumbersome effects of distance and staying connected, continuous improvements and upgrades are constantly being made to the metropolisâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; transportation and digital infrastructure by governing bodies to supplement its already strategic location. Most notable of these projects is the construction of a HighSpeed Rail System (HSR) that connects Kuala Lumpur to

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Singapore. Headed by the Land Public Transport Commission (SPAD), the rail is estimated to be built by 2020, further strengthening connectivity and business ties between the two nations. Furthermore, plans were already in place for the construction of a new Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) system within GKL/ KV to reduce traffic congestion, and accommodate the growing populationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s need for efficient and reliable public transportation.

Business Services The boom in IT-enabled services and technology in Asia has given rise to the trend of outsourcing for various business processes. Whether it is back-office operations, research, design and development and marketing activities, the GKL/KV has the well-developed infrastructures, accessible broadband internet services and fibre optic cabling to accommodate the rising demand for offshore business services outsourcing. Additionally, the availability of skilled talents and the fact that

Malaysia has no major natural disasters makes the capital city an even more prominent choice for corporations looking for offshore outsourcing.

Financial Services Malaysiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s financial sector consists of the conventional financial system and the Islamic financial practices; both coexist and operate in parallel. In fact, Malaysia is one of the core markets for Islamic banking outside of the Middle East. To ensure greater and more sustainable growth of the financial sector, the Central Bank of Malaysia introduced measures to liberalise the pursuit of opportunities that can contribute to the sectors development.

Healthcare Although the healthcare sector is primarily driven by domestic demands for better healthcare services and products, based in the GKL/KV are some of the globally recognised healthcare

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facilities and service providers, manufacturers of medical devices, and pharmaceutical companies. Furthermore, the government is actively supporting more research and development work in the medical field, and also promoting Malaysia as an overall luxury tourist destination, which creates immense potential for growth opportunities in healthcare tourism.

Quality Education As the nation’s economic transformation accelerates, the capital city is set on becoming a premier education hub. Malaysia’s cultural diversity, available pool of potential talents and modernisation has led to a growing number of foreign education institutes setting up operations around GKL/KV. Adding on to that, the decent cost of living in Kuala Lumpur, compared to other metropolises around the world, makes it an affordable city for higher education.

Increasing Consumer Demands The GKL/KV populace is dominated by an emerging middle-class with an increasing spending power. It is no wonder that the number of shopping centres are on the rise around the metropolis. As the city’s population becomes more educated and sophisticated, there is a spike in demand and appreciation for quality goods and services. This offers business, entrepreneurs and investors – both local and foreign – plenty of valuable opportunities to penetrate new markets.

Into the Future GKL/KV is the central focus of numerous development projects and initiatives under the Economic Transformation Programme (ETP),

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meant to boost economic growth. The aim is to make the GKL/KV a more attractive destination for the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most innovative and progressive firms within the 12 servicedriven and knowledge intensive industries, which are deemed priority sectors, as highlighted in the ETP. To further efforts in bringing in more investors and aid overall progress, many pro-business government policies and tax incentives were introduced to boost investor confidence in the GKL/KV. Policies

were also made to ease doing business in the metropolis, such as minimising bureaucratic red tape with online onestop centres for business licensing, new company incorporation and simultaneous business registrations.

with GKL/KV, and the setting up of agencies dedicated to overseeing and enforcing intellectual property laws. Such efforts serve to encourage more foreign investment through acquisition, licensing and franchising.

Not only are measures taken to simplify business processes, there are also a wide range of policies made to cater to newer business trends. Notable examples include tax incentives for companies wishing to locate their operational headquarters

It is projected that with an increase in investments and enhanced connectivity to the city, more jobs will be created, allowing for local talents to be optimised while also attracting more international talents and skilled workers.

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THE CENTRE OF GOVERNANCE

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Situated 25km south of Kuala Lumpur is a planned city that, upon first impression, may just bring to mind the kind of utopia normally depicted in science fiction. Spanning a total of 49 sq km of land space and first unveiled to the public on June 4th, 1999, Putrajaya has been serving as Malaysia’s federal administration capital since 1999 when the seat of government was relocated to reduce overcrowding in the central Kuala Lumpur area. Designed with the concept of an intelligent garden city and located within the Multimedia Super Corridor, Putrajaya was inaugurated as the third Federal Territory in 2001, after Kuala Lumpur and Labuan. The city was planned and built with the vision of creating an

ideal place, not just to work in, but also for living and recreation. This is evident with the city’s futuristic architecture coexisting harmoniously with nature. While mainly the home to main offices of various federal government bodies, the landscape of Putrajaya is also lined with stylish residential areas, commercial buildings and shopping centres. Due to its unique cityscape that consists of 47% open space, mostly parks and a man-made lake, Putrajaya plays hosts to a number of annual sporting and recreational events. Given the city’s ever-growing hospitality industry and its increasing popularity as the location of choice for businesses, Putrajaya is also fast becoming a popular tourist destination. The city’s world class infrastructure was designed to meet the demands of state-of-the-art technological operations and also accommodate green technology. Putrajaya’s objective of a selfsufficient garden city is exemplified by its innovative neighbourhood concepts, and stunning commercial office spaces, mostly overlooking breathtaking water and landscape panoramas.

Education is made accessible in the city with the availability of schools catering to all ranks of education, from kindergarten and pre-school to primary, secondary and even tertiary levels. Additionally, training and research centres for various corporate and government organisations are also located in Putrajaya. These institutes serve to attract and nurture talented professionals in all sorts of fields, while also creating employment opportunities. Like a large oasis amidst a bustling metropolitan, Putrajaya is wellconnected to the Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA), as well as major towns within Greater KL and Klang Valley via a network of highways and railroads. Internally, all of Putrajaya’s precincts are linked by standard roads. Furthermore, going in and out or moving around the city is made easy and safe with inter-city buses. Keeping up with its vision as an intelligent city and commitment of continual progress, many healthcare, sports, leisure parks, recreational facilities and public amenities were built around the city to cater to residents, with more projects planned for the future.

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BUILT FOR BUSINESS AND PLEASURE

With state-of-the-art facilities, infrastructures and convenient one-stop business centre designed to ensure efficient business transactions, the southern development corridor of Iskandar Malaysia is set on becoming the ideal metropolis for business, living and entertainment. Located in the state of Johor that is known to be the southern gateway to Peninsular Malaysia, the economic corridor is at the closest proximity to one of Asiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s economic powerhouse, Singapore. It is also situated within six to eight hours flight radius from a number of the continentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s burgeoning cities, including Dubai, Hong Kong, Seoul, Shanghai and Tokyo. Its strategic position means it is within the reach of an approximately 800

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million people global market. With a lucrative economy, and ever conducive business environment, Iskandar is also projected to become an attractive location full of promising job opportunities for local and foreign career seekers. Covering an area of 2,217 sq km that is conveniently accessible by air, land, rail and sea, Iskandar Malaysia is divided into five flagship zones as developmental focal points.

Flagship A: Johor Bahru City As the central business district and capital city of the state, Johor Bahru is host to 60% of foreign tourists in the south of the peninsula. Its main economic activities are financial services, manufacturing, hospitality, urban

tourism, commercial and retail. The city is connected to Singapore via the Causeway Link, and plans were already made for an Mass Rapid Transit and Light Rapid Transit (MRT/LRT) train system to connect Johor Bahru with other areas within Iskandar.

Flagship B: Nusajaya With 24,000 acres of development-ready land available, Nusajaya is the flagship zone to focus on property development, state and federal administration, and logistics. Flagship B is also home to Malaysiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s first international theme parks, Legoland and Hello Kitty Town. With more development plans in the wing, Nusajaya is set to become the hub for creative arts, entertainment, modern medical facilities, educational institutes, tourism, biotechnology and high-tech manufacturing.

Flagship C: Western Gate Development The southwestern region of Iskandar is where port and marine activities are concentrated. An area consisting mostly of fertile agricultural lands and mangrove forests, Flagship C has land banks available for development in various sectors. Key economic activities within this zone includes warehousing, logistics, engineering, hi-tech manufacturing, food production, petrochemicals and entreport trading.

Flagship E: Senai-Skudai Investors looking to set up large-scale commercial and airport related enterprises can look to the northern region of Iskandar. The regionâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s main shopping centre, the Johor Premium Outlets, is located in Flagship E. Senai-Skudai is the flagship zone for airport services, engineering, electronics and electrical industries and education, with enough land space still available for more development.

Flagship D: Eastern Gate Development As the industrial and manufacturing hub, the southeastern region boasts the largest concentration of palm oil refining industries and downstream activities in the world.

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MOVING TOWARDS GREATER INNOVATIONS AND PROGRESS Investors, entrepreneurs and career seekers with sights set on northern Peninsula Malaysia is looking to benefit from a mature business community of over 40 years in experience and evolution, with strong ties already forged between government and private sectors. The span of four decades had led to the creation of many engineering-based industries, enabling the expansion into new growth sectors such as machinery, automotive, aerospace, medical devices, biotechnology and engineering driven agriculture. With the ground work already set, the Northern Corridor Economic Region (NCER) initiative aims at accelerating economic growth and elevating income levels in the northern states of Perlis, Kedah, Penang and northern districts of Perak. The ambitious objective focuses on leveraging and increasing the value of existing industries in the region, namely in manufacturing, tourism, agriculture and logistics.

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Kedah is already considered the rice bowl of the nation, where more than half of the countryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s total rice production comes from. The NCER is set on modernising current farming techniques and technology that can take agriculture to the next level. To boost efficiency, productivity and quality of produce, centres for research and development have been set up to encourage market driven innovations that are also in compliance with international standards of farming practices. The target is not only to revitalise the agricultural sector to fulfil domestic and exporting demands, but also for the economic boost to elevate poverty by improving living standards of the farming communities. The NCER also has the edge in the manufacturing sector, especially with large electronic, automotive and aerospace companies that have set up base in the region, setting the standards for production

and service precision. The most notable achievement in this sector is the development of the car manufacturing township called Proton City in Tanjung Malim, Perak. With state-of-the-art facilities already established to further boost the local automotive sector, Proton City is expected to be fully developed by 2020 as the nationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s centre for automotive industrial excellence. In addition to agricultural and manufacturing activities, the northern states have always played a leading role in making Malaysia a globally recognised travel destination. In Perlis is where the

longest continuous range of limestone hills in Malaysia can be found. Off the coast of Kedah is the duty-free island of Langkawi, which is known to be rich in natural and culturally diverse tourist attractions. The tourism industry in the region is further boosted by the availability of modern healthcare facilities and luxury services, making for an ideal environment for business and leisure travels. In fact, the island state of Penang is fast becoming a popular medical tourist destination. Already famous for its rich history and heritage, Penang has a reliable network of internationally acclaimed hospital, continuously drawing in medical tourists from all over the continent.

main contributors to the growth of key economic activities for almost half a century. The main infrastructures that links this region to the rest of the peninsular and the continent are an international airport, an international port, and an extensive network of roads and expressways. Furthermore, the availability of northbound train, flight and bus services make travelling up north fast and easy.

Located strategically adjacent to the Eastern Corridor, the northern region already has a well-established logistics system which has been one of the

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A GOLDMINE OF NATURAL RESOURCES

Almost 14% of Malaysiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s population resides in the east coast, and the number is set to grow. Given that this region has a lower cost of living compared to the rest of Peninsular Malaysia, it is no wonder that the East Coast Economic Region (ECER) is positioned to become a major tourist destination, an exporter of resourcebased and manufactured products, a trading centre, and a logistics hub. Spanning a 66,000 sq km area which consists of the states of Kelantan, Terengganu, Pahang, and the district of Mersing in Johor, the region

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is rich in untapped resources for the tourism, farming and fishing industries. In fact, the basis for ECERâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s economic transformation is the wealth of the regionâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s cultural heritage, natural resources and biodiversity. The regional geography, which covers 51% of land space in the peninsular, makes it ideal for real estate development and large-scale commercial agricultural activities, with vast potential for high-yielding farms and fisheries. The forests, coast lines, islands, lakes and highlands offer an abundance of opportunities

for tourism to flourish. After all, Malaysian’s first national park, with an area that spans the state of Pahang, Terengganu and Kelantan, is one of the world’s oldest virgin rainforest and a favourite ecotourism destination. Off the coast of Terengganu are nine islands that are gazetted as a marine conservation area continues to draw visitors. Over in the state of Kelantan, the Kota Bahru City Centre (KBCC) project is slowly and steadily transforming the state

capital into a cross-border business trading hub in the region. Additionally, the oil and gas industry centred in Terengganu that has long been another contributor to the region’s development has reached maturity, and expanded to include petrochemical-based manufacturing and other related industries.

airports, railways, and network of roads that allow for accessibility from other parts of the peninsular and neighbouring countries. The region’s connectivity also puts it in an ideal position as a logistics and transportation focal point for various industries, making it even more viable to diversify its economic activities.

Another factor that makes ECER an attractive business destination is its already existing seaports,

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THE CENTRE FOR ECOLOGICAL INTERESTS Home to 32 ethnic groups and well-conserved biodiversity, Sabah has plenty to capitalise on to spur its economic growth. Banking on the state’s natural endowment, human capital availability and advantageous location, the state-wide Sabah Development Corridor (SDC) initiative was introduced in 2008 to accelerate its economy and boost the quality of life of the people, while ensuring sustainable management of its resources. For starters, Sabah is at the centre of the rapidly progressing Brunei Darussalam-Indonesia-Malaysia-

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Philippines East ASEAN Growth Area (BIMP-EAGA), with direct air accessibility to many capital cities and markets in North and Southeast Asia. The state’s fertile agricultural lands, rainforests and marine resources offer great potential for resourcebased manufacturing, food and biotechnological ventures. In fact, Sabah is responsible for at least 30% of Malaysia’s palm oil production. Its continuously flourishing oil, gas and energy sector also provides investors with ample opportunity for investment in the pretrochemical industry.

Sabah also has a lot to offer ecologists and adventure-seeking travellers, from its national parks and conservation areas to the mountains, jungles and coral reefs. Mount Kinabalu – being the highest peak in Southeast Asia and listed as a UNESCO heritage site – is home to over 2,000 flora species, while Sipadan Island is where the world renowned Coral Triangle can be found. Besides opportunities for tourism activities, these natural attractions also provides plenty to explore for environmental and biotech industries in terms of studies and research. In regards to human capital development, Sabah’s culturally diverse environment is expected to inspire and cultivate creative minds that can contribute to the SDC’s plan for continuous progress. The human capital development in Sabah is intended to raise

living standards and bridge the rural-urban divide in East Malaysia, which is in alignment with the national agenda to transform Malaysia into a high income nation by 2020. With Greater Kota Kinabalu as the growth pillar, the SDC had designated six other Strategic Development Areas to complement the initiative, which are the Kinabalu Gold Coast Enclave, Bio-Triangle, Agro Marine Belt, Interior Food Valley, the Oil and Gas Clusters, and the Brunei Bay Integrated Development Area. These designated areas provide unique tax incentive packages that are beneficial to investors.

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BUILDING A SUSTAINABLE FUTURE

Known as ‘Land of the Hornbills’, the eastern state of Sarawak is home to a plethora of exotic flora and fauna. Much like the bordering state of Sabah, Sarawak is overflowing with natural resources. The long coastlines where aquaculture activities take place, the hectares of forests where logging is concentrated, and ample fertile lands available for agriculture activities are but a few of the natural resources that support the state’s economic development. Within the 70,000 sq km central region, where more than 600,000 of Sarawak’s population is concentrated is also saturated with energy resources and raw minerals.

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To accelerate Sarawak into a developed state and enhance the people’s quality of life, the Sarawak Corridor of Renewable Energy (SCORE) was launched in 2008, with the five major growth nodes – Samalaju, Tanjung Manis, Mukah, Baram and Tunoh – as focal points for development. The initiative prioritises growth of the energy sector, especially in the areas of hydropower, coal, biofuel and natural gas – all of which are available in abundance. The wealth of clean and safe renewable energy allows Sarawak to price its energy competitively and encourage foreign investments in power generation.

To complement the growth plan, SCORE also singled out 10 high impact sectors in Sarawakâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s economy for further development, including fishing, aquaculture, ship building, tourism, palm oil, aluminium, glass, metal, oil and forestry industries. The stateâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s rainforest is one of the largest the source of tropical hardwood timber, which is one of the major contributors to Malaysian exports. In spite of all the developments, the Sarawak government is also

stepping up efforts to ensure the stateâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s natural wonders are protected. With its rainforests being the habitat of numerous endangered species, conservation programmes and sanctuaries were created to protect animals like the orangutan, dugong, dolphins and even the coral reefs. Additionally, being home to several of the most impressive national parks, Sarawak proves to be an attractive tourist destination for ecologists and adventure-seekers.

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VISION 2020: MALAYSIAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S AMBITION TO BECOME A FULLY DEVELOPED NATION 70

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â&#x20AC;&#x153;By the year 2020, Malaysia can be a united nation, with a confident Malaysian society, infused by strong moral and ethical values, living in a society that is democratic, liberal and tolerant, caring, economically just and equitable, progressive and prosperous, and in full possession of an economy that is competitive, dynamic, robust and resilient.â&#x20AC;? The Way Forward â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Vision 2020 by YAB Tun Dr. Mahathir Mohamad, 1991

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In 1999, the fourth Prime Minister of Malaysia, Tun Dr. Mahathir Mohamad introduced the nation to Vision 2020, a national ideal of Malaysia becoming a fully developed country in terms of economic prosperity, social wellbeing and political stability by the year 2020. To continue driving change towards the goal of Vision 2020, the government formulated the four key pillars of national transformation to unite the people for the challenges ahead, prepare the public sector to better serve the people, and transform the economy.

Uniting the People Striving towards achieving a more inclusive and harmonious society, the 1Malaysia programme was launched in 2009. The fundamental principle of 1Malaysia is to continuously promote common values that emphasise ethnic harmony, national unity and efficient governance

in all future development plans. This concept is exemplified by â&#x20AC;&#x201C; among many things â&#x20AC;&#x201C; the New Economic Policy (NEP), introduced as a means to remedy the great economic disparity between the people in Malaysia and to eradicate poverty regardless of race with affirmative action.

Transforming the Government In line with the concept of 1Malaysia, the Government Transformation Programme (GTP) was launched in 2010 with the aim of strengthening public services. Under the GTP, the aim is to create a more efficient and peoplecentric government by addressing priority areas that are of great importance to the citizens. To deliver the fundamental changes, there are seven designated points of focus, known as the National Key Result Areas (NKRA). Among the agenda included within the NKRA are crime and corruption reduction, raising the living standards

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of low-income households, and improving the infrastructures and amenities in both rural and urban areas.

Towards an Inclusive and Sustainable New Economy Given the need for bold economic reforms amidst the changing global economic climate, the Economic Transformation Programme (ETP) â&#x20AC;&#x201C; in which the New Economic Model (NEM) will be achieved through â&#x20AC;&#x201C; was unveiled in March of 2010 as the third transformative pillar. As the framework for progress that will propel the nation towards its target of becoming an advanced high-income nation by year 2020, the main goals of the NEM is to create and promote a more sustainable economy in which the focus for growth will be on income brackets and small businesses. The initiative is inclusive of all citizens, regardless of ethnicity and creed.

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The ETP strives for a more market-led economy where investments and productions are driven by the private sector. Under the NEM, small-medium enterprises (SMEs) will be given more support and assistance in terms of access to business opportunities. Because there are over half a million of them nationwide, SMEs form the core of Malaysiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s economy, accounting for roughly 35% of the nationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Gross Domestic Product (GDP), over half of total employment and approximately 20% of exports. The ETP will be driven by eight Strategic Reform Initiatives (SRI), each forming the basis for relevant policy measures to be implemented. Ultimately, the objective is to foster long-term growth by revitalising the private sector, develop a quality workforce, and continue to optimise growth in the 12 National Key Economic Areas (NKEAs). Essentially, the NKEA comprise selected sectors with enormous growth potential for the private sector that when enhanced, will drive Malaysia towards highincome status and global competitiveness:

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Oil, Gas and Energy Contributing to one-fifth of the national GDP over the past decade, the oil, gas and energy industry is critical to Malaysiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s economic growth. With the rise in regional and domestic demand for energy products and sustainable energy solutions, this sector is set to achieve an annual growth rate of 5% up to year 2020.

Palm Oil and Rubber The palm oil sector remains one of the main contributors to the national economy, accounting for 5% of Malaysiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s annual exports. Besides producing the raw resource, the sector has expanded into the production of quality palm products, especially in the food and health-based segments. This NKEA also hopes to improve and enhance activities in the rubber industry, and ensure the availability of domestic supplies for developing higher-valued rubber products.

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Financial Services Malaysia’s financial industry represents an important component of the economy. Government projects are already planned to address challenges faced by the industry, and also to boost the sector’s growth, particularly the industry’s niche in Islamic finance.

Tourism The tourism industry is a significant contributor to the nation’s income, as reflected in an average GDP growth rate of 12% yearly since 2004. Through the Tourism NKEA initiatives, efforts are implemented to secure Malaysia’s position as a leading leisure and business destination.

Business Services The Business Services NKEA aims to nurture innovation and to broaden the knowledge and skills base of the country’s

workforce. It is expected that Malaysia can expand into new and untapped areas of specialisation, including maintenance and repair, outsourcing in business, knowledge processing and data centres, engineering design services, and shipbuilding.

Electrical and Electronics (E&E) Already into its second phase of implementation, the of E&E NKEA target is to gradually move the industry from manufacturing activities towards higher-value activities such as design, assembly, packaging and the provision of total solutions.

Education A nation cannot achieve global competitiveness without quality education at its core. Hence, initiatives are being undertaken to improve the quality of all levels of education in the country, from early childcare to tertiary education to

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professional skills training. The NKEA’s goal is to make great strides in attracting prestigious foreign universities to set up campus on Malaysian shores, and develop new education niches.

Healthcare As Malaysia is becoming a more educated and health-conscious society, the nation’s healthcare industry is seeing consistent growth over the past decade. There has been tremendous growth of healthcare services in the industry, which was previously dominated by the public sector. As such, the government aims to further boost growth in this sector by encouraging more private investments in various areas, such as the manufacturing of pharmaceutical products, medical devices, clinical research and aged-care services.

Communications Content and Infrastructure (CCI) An initiative that spans content, network applications, services and devices, the goal of

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the CCI NKEA is to make the interconnected lifestyle of the digital age a reality for all Malaysians. There are basically two parts to this NKEA; to improve communications infrastructure for greater availability of internet access, and to drive the production of creative high-quality multimedia content.

Agriculture Agricultural activities have always been a staple in Malaysian economy. Projects and initiatives are being made to transform the small-scale and production-based agricultural sector into a large-scale agribusiness industry that not only contributes to national economic growth, but is also sustainable.

Greater Kuala Lumpur/Klang Valley As the capital and commercial centre of the country, the progress and developments within Greater Kuala Lumpur/Klang Valley (GKL/KV) is a crucial component to Malaysia’s economic transformation. The NKEA’s goal is to transform the GKL/KV region into a world-class metropolis that upholds the highest standards in every area, from conducting business to livability.

The Final Developmental Phase The fourth and final transformation pillar was unveiled in June of 2010, known as the 10th Malaysia Plan. This comprehensive blueprint for economic transformation, drafted by the Economic Planning Unit (EPU) of the Prime Ministerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Department and the Finance Ministry, targets a GDP growth of 6% per annum over the next five years. As the Plan reaches its conclusion in June of 2015, the 11th Malaysia Plan (2016-2020) is expected to carry forward and extend on the previous transformation initiates. This will be the last phase of the nationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s five-year development planning towards its high-income target that started in 1955. Focus of the 11th Malaysia Plan will be on further enhancing pro-business policies, strengthening economic sustainability by encouraging inclusiveness in participation, improve on efficiency and coverage of the transportation system, infrastructure, and ICT facilities. Finally, this last phase will also chart Malaysiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s aspirations beyond the year 2020.

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MALAYSIA AND ASEAN

The Association of Southeast Asian Nation (ASEAN) is a political and economic organisation formed on August 8th, 1967. The organisation consists of 10 Southeast Asian nations â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Brunei, Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, and Vietnam. Since its establishment, ASEAN has been making efforts to develop and refine various policies to promote trade, and collaborative economic activities among its members. Additionally, ASEAN has forged cooperative ties with three major economies in Asia with the formation of ASEAN Plus Three (APT) since 1997, a forum which includes the 10 member nations, plus China, Japan and South Korea. The APT functions as a coordinator for government leaders and officials of the participating countries to deepen cooperation and address issues relating to various trades. As Malaysia assumes the chairmanship of ASEAN in 2015, the nation will be responsible for ensuring the successful founding of an ASEAN Community by the end of the year. The Community will be built on the premise of three pillars of cooperation, which are the ASEAN Political-Security Community (APSC), the ASEAN Economic Community (AEC) and the ASEAN Socio-Cultural Community (ASCC).

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Of particular attention and interest to the global business community is the establishment of the AEC, which aims to unite ASEAN as an integrated, single economy and market that benefits investors, businesses and consumers alike. ASEANâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s potential lies in the varying economic developments, and diverse cultures of the region. As a combined unit, ASEAN has a total population of 600 million people of varying heritage, religious beliefs, economic background, language literacy, innovation, and technological sophistication.

For instance, ASEANâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s more developed economies, such as Singapore which has a 100% urbanised population, lead the fields of technological development, research, and innovation. In contrast, nations like Cambodia and Myanmar is primarily rural and leverage on the abundance of their natural resources and competitive labour cost. This creates an extensively diverse market with a wide range of opportunities for enterprises of any size to tap into.

The AEC will also see all members developing uniformity by implementing rules and procedures that will result in strengthening coordination, cooperation and connectivity throughout the region. The measure will allow for free movement of goods, services, investments, and also freer flow of capital and skills. Thus, the many different industries across the region can establish a stronger network that enhances ASEANâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s participation in the global supply chain.

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A TASTE OF MALAYSIA, TRULY ASIA A country of rich heritage, Malaysia is a melting pot of cultures offering a fascinating fusion of colourful festivals and gastronomic delights. With modern towering architecture and beautiful forests, mountains and beaches, Malaysia is truly a touristâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s paradise.

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THE 25 WONDERS OF MALAYSIA As a country known for its ethnic diversity, Malaysia offers a lot to explore in terms of historic locations, delicious cuisines and exciting adventures. Being a melting pot of cultures also makes Malaysia host to a myriad of traditional and religious festivities throughout the calendar year. Geographically, Malaysia is as harmoniously diverse as its people. Futuristic structures, shopping havens and modern tourist hubs can be seen coexisting in harmony with historical landmarks, immaculate beaches, and virgin forests filled with exotic flora and fauna all over the land. To top it off, Malaysians are known for being warm and hospitable. After all, they are no strangers to welcoming and embracing cultural differences. Visiting Malaysia is bound to be an unforgettable experience, filled with excitement and unexpected surprises.

PETRONAS Twin Towers – Kuala Lumpur With a distinct design that features elements of contemporary architecture, and traditional Islamic art motifs aptly incorporated together, the PETRONAS Twin Towers is the landmark that dominates the skyline of Kuala Lumpur’s Central Business District. Standing at a height of 451.9m, the majestic structure stands as a symbol of Malaysia’s modernisation, and its vision to become a global player. The 88-storey skyscraper was recognised as the tallest building in the world from 1998 to 2004. The two towers are connected by a 58.4m skybridge at the 41st and 42nd floors, where tourists can ascend to and enjoy a panoramic view of the city.

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Kinabalu Park – Sabah Located at 1,585m above sea level and covering a 754 sq km area, Kinabalu Park is the entrance to the summit trail that leads up to Mount Kinabalu – Southeast Asia’s highest peak. Established in 1964, it became Malaysia’s first designated UNESCO World Heritage site in the year 2000. Known to be one of the most important biologically diverse sites in the world, the national park is home to over 4,500 species of flora and fauna, including exotic birds and mammals, and even land snails. Among its most well-known natural wonders is the Rafflesia plant, the largest single flower in the world.

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Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park – Sabah Named after Malaysia’s first prime minister, the Marine Park is a cluster of five islands – Gaya, Manukan, Mamutik, Sapi and Sulug, each featuring a different collection of diverse flora and fauna. Gazetted as Sabah’s second national park in 1974, the Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park has since become a favourite destination among ecotourists. Its relatively shallow waters filled with aquatic life and corals make it ideal for novice snorkellers and divers to get their feet wet.

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Tioman Island – Pahang

and birds. Located amidst one of the richest

Located 56km off the coast of Pahang,

marine habitats in the world and surrounded

Tioman Island is an enchanting paradise

by crystal clear waters, it is no wonder that

that will prove impossible to resist for

Sipadan is a diver’s paradise. Immersing

snorkellers, divers and outdoor sports

in the surrounding waters, one can expect

enthusiasts. The surrounding waters of

exciting encounters with sea turtles, schools

the island decked with impressive coral

of exotic fishes, and the occasional visit from

reefs are a joy to explore, while the land’s

manta rays and sharks.

granite formation makes it ideal for rockclimbing expeditions. The beaches of Tioman is also the place to be for catching waves on a surfboard or bask in the warm sun at a luxurious resort amidst a

Redang Island – Terengganu The largest of the nine protected islands which form a marine park, Redang Island offers plenty of snorkelling and scuba

picturesque view.

diving sites with its clear waters. Other

Sipadan Island – Sabah

tracking, boating and canoeing. Besides

For an island that draws in numerous eco-

being a dream destination for water and

tourists and marine biology enthusiasts,

outdoor sporting activities, the pristine

Sipadan Island is a small island where one

white sandy beaches and crystal waters of

can easily circle the entire place on foot in

Redang is also an important conservation

approximately 25 minutes. Yet, the oceanic

site for marine life, especially sea turtles.

activities visitors can enjoy include jungle

island boasts an impressive ecosystem, housing over 3,000 species of marine life

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Kabili-Sepilok Nature Reserve – Sabah Named after two rivers that flow through it, the Kabili-Sepilok Nature Reserve is home to an interesting array of wildlife and vegetation. Its trails will lead explorers through tropical highland forests to lowland mangrove swamps, perhaps running into one of the wild animals along the way. The reserve is best known for containing the Sepilok Orang Utan Rehabilitation Centre. Attracting tourists and researchers alike, the centre allows visitors to get up close with the orangutan in the primates’ natural habitat.

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Kinabatangan River – Sabah As the longest river in the state of Sabah, the lower basin of the Kinabatangan River is a renowned wildlife sanctuary where a number of exotic species can be found. Among the sanctuary’s inhabitants are monkeys, rhinos and Asian elephants. The best way visitors can discover and explore Kinabatangan’s rich ecosystem and wildlife is through the river safari cruise, where one may just spot a saltwater crocodile or two along the way. For the truly adventurous, there are night safari tours for a chance of catching nocturnal wildlife in their natural habitat.

Bukit Bintang – Kuala Lumpur Considered to be Kuala Lumpur’s

The Gastronomic Hunt at Jalan Alor – Kuala lumpur

trendiest shopping and entertainment

Malaysia is famed for its assortment of

district, Bukit Bintang is the place to be

unique culinary delights, thanks to its

for all that is hip and happening. Stylish

multiethnic population. There is no better

cafes, eateries, bars and even hawker

way to experience Malaysian food than

stalls can be seen along the streets

at the famed Jalan Alor. Deemed Kuala

populated by retail cathedrals that tout

Lumpur’s go-to food destination, one can

the latest branded goods and designer

forget overpriced restaurants when looking

labels. Furthermore, the district’s central

to grab a bite at Jalan Alor. The streets

location makes it conveniently accessible

are lined with clusters of hawker stalls,

via public transportation from anywhere

selling local favourites that best represent

within Kuala Lumpur. Ever pulsing with life

Malaysia’s gastronomic diversity.

and activities, it is no wonder that Bukit Bintang is a popular night life venue. It is suffice to say that this is the section of the city that never sleeps.

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Central Market, Chinatown and Little India – Kuala Lumpur If you are exploring Kuala Lumpur for good bargains, Petaling Street – more commonly known as Chinatown to foreigners – is a bargain hunting haven not to be missed. The area is bustling with vendor stalls, peddling a myriad of goods and services, from clothes, souvenirs, and street food to spa and tattoo services. A short walk from Chinatown is the complex known as Central Market (Pasar Seni). With a focus on the city’s artistic community, the Central Market houses handicraft boutiques, antique stores, souvenir shops and art galleries that showcase the arts and crafts from Malaysia’s various cultural heritages. Lastly, a bargain hunt does not end without stopping by Little India. The lively street is instantly identifiable with its colourful decorations, and vendors selling bales of dazzling sarees, jewellery and various traditional Indian paraphernalia.

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KL Tower â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Kuala Lumpur Standing 421m tall, the KL Tower is just as iconic to the landscape of Kuala Lumpur, as the PETRONAS Twin Towers. Opened to public in 1996, the tower still boasts the highest viewing deck of the city at 276m. Besides a full breathtaking view of Kuala Lumpur, the tower is host to the revolving restaurant, Atmosphere 360. As the name suggests, one can enjoy a meal while basking in a birdâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s eye view of the city. Atop KL Tower is also a theatre, an amphitheatre and beautiful cascading pools decorating the interior.

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Batu Caves â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Selangor

Genting Highlands â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Pahang

The first feature most visitors to Batu Caves may notice is the massive gold statue of the Hindu deity, Muruga at the foot of the hill. As a site of several Hindu temples and shrines, Batu Caves remains one of the most popular religious sites that attract thousands of tourists and devotees each year. The main temple is located inside a cave, atop the limestone hill, where visitors will have to climb a flight of 272 steps to reach. Here is where the annual Hindu festival of Thaipusam takes place. In fact, Batu Caves plays host to one of the largest Thaipusam festivities outside of India.

Perched at 2,000m altitude, Genting Highlands is known for its cool breezy whether for those craving a brief retreat from the tropics. The hilltop resort is dubbed the City of Entertainment, as visitors will not run short of things to see and do. In addition to being a popular venue for international entertainment events, from concerts to magic shows, Genting is home to a number of indoor and outdoor theme parks, shopping outlets, restaurants and Malaysiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s one and only casino.

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George Town – Penang Walking through the streets of Penang’s state capital is like taking a brief trip back in time for a glimpse of Malaysia’s colonial past. Listed as a World Heritage site by UNESCO in 2008, George Town is home to over 12,000 surviving pre-war buildings built by Chinese craftsmen in the olden days. Its status as a heritage site does not hinder modernisation, though. The Kompleks Tun Abdul Razak Tower (KOMTAR) can be seen gracing the Penang landscape as a multipurpose complex for retail outlets and administrative offices. With continuous development over the years, George Town has no shortage of modern amenities and shopping complexes.

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Sunway Lagoon – Selangor There is no theme park in Malaysia that can provide a whole day of enjoyment and exhilarating thrills like Sunway Lagoon. Reachable with just a 15-minute drive from Kuala Lumpur, Sunway Lagoon houses 80 thrill rides and several theme parks within its grounds. Visitors can choose from the Water Park, Wildlife Park, Extreme Park, and Scream Park where all sorts of activities await. Sunway Lagoon is also home to three record-breaking attractions; one of the world’s largest man-made surf beach, world’s longest pedestrian suspension bridge, and Asia’s highest slingshot ride.

Bako National Park – Sarawak Being the oldest and one of the smallest national parks in Sarawak, Bako National Park is by no means any less unique. In fact, within its 27.27 sq km area contain seven complete eco-systems; beach vegetation, cliff vegetation, heath forest, mangrove forest, mixed dipterocarp forest, grasslands vegetation and peat swamp forest. It is also home to almost every species of plant found in the Borneo isles, including a variety of unique carnivorous plant species. Bako National Park is also often considered the best place to catch a glimpse of the endangered proboscis monkeys. Though not far from Kuching, the national park is only reachable by a boat ride along the Santubong River.

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Malacca City – Malacca It impossible to fully appreciate Malaysia’s interesting past without a visit to the nation’s historical capital. Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2008, Malacca City has plenty to offer, including historical sites, unique cuisines and shopping hubs. Among the notable attractions are the museum complex, the many places of worship for various religions that are located side by side, and the famous Jonker Walk, where one can sample Malacca’s well-known Peranakan cuisine and shop for souvenirs. A tour of Malacca City is to get acquainted with Malaysia’s rich history and the nation’s many cultural heritages.

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Legoland and Hello Kitty Town â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Johor As the first of its kind in Asia and the first international theme park in Malaysia, Legoland and Hello Kitty Town is a place of fun and adventure for the whole family. The innovative theme park offers thrilling rides, themed areas and interactive displays that will ignite the imagination of children and adults alike. Legolandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s main attraction is the MINILAND, a display where replicas of Asiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s landmarks were built from more than 30 million pieces of Lego bricks. Over at Hello Kitty Town, one should not miss stopping by the Kitty House, which is a house furnished from top to bottom with everything of the beloved Sanrio mascot.

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Johor Premium Outlets â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Johor This retail haven located at Kulaijaya district is the main shopping centre of Iskandar Malaysia. Known as the first luxury premium brand outlet in Southeast Asia, the Johor Premium Outlets is a retail complex that houses 130 designer and brand name outlets from all over the world in one convenient hub. As if that is not enough to delight shoppers, the outlets feature factory-direct savings of 25% to 65% on all goods everyday!

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Cameron Highlands – Pahang Situated 1,500m above sea level, Cameron Highlands is Malaysia’s largest highland resort. Comprising a series of small townships, Cameron Highlands has several renowned insect and production farms as tourist attractions. Among these are the butterfly farm, the honey bee farm, the strawberry farm, and the sprawling picturesque tea plantation. Other popular activities include long nature walks, trekking and bird watching. Cameron Highlands is the ideal retreat from the lowland humid climate and hectic city life, where one can be surrounded by nature and rejuvenate the spirit.

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National Park (Taman Negara) – Pahang Owing to its natural endowments, Malaysia has a number of nature reserves throughout the country. The National Park (Taman Negara) in Pahang was the first and oldest official protected area in the country. Established at the Titiwangsa Mountains in 1938 and covering 4,343 sq km, the rainforest is estimated to be over 130 million years old, thus making it one of the oldest virgin rainforests in the world. Malaysia’s premier national park continues to draw tourists and outdoor sports enthusiasts each year. Popular activities include jungle trekking, river cruise, cave exploration, wildlife observation, camping and canopy walks.

Mulu National Park – Sarawak A UNESCO Heritage Site located amidst a mountainous rainforest occupying 528.64 sq km land space, Sarawak’s Mulu National Parks proves to be a draw for explorers, researchers and geologists. Besides one of the world’s longest networks of caves to be found, Mulu National Park also boasts the largest known natural underground chamber – the Sarawak Chamber. Measuring an impressive 700m long, 396m wide and at least 70m in height, the Sarawak Chamber is believed to be large enough to accommodate about 40 Boeing 747 airplanes, without their wings overlapping. With unique land formations to tread, enormous caverns to explore, and a chance of encountering exotic fauna, Mulu will provide the adventurous at heart with tough, but rewarding multi-day hikes.

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Langkawi – Kedah Known as the Jewel of the Kedah, Langkawi is the island where some of Malaysia’s most fascinating folktales, legends and history were born. The most notable of these was the legend of the white-blooded maiden whose curse condemned the island from ever prospering for seven generations. Located some 30km off the coast of Kedah, Langkawi is an archipelago of 104 islands known for beautiful beaches, natural retreats and historical sites, with modern developments and infrastructure superimposed. Visitors to the island can look forward to a multitude of fun activities such as sightseeing, water sports, nature trekking and hikes, island hopping, golfing, and of course, duty-free shopping.

Sarawak Cultural Village – Sarawak Just 32km from the state capital of Kuching, at Pantai Damai, is the perfect place for tourists to be introduced to and get a firsthand experience of Sarawak’s lifestyles and customs. The Sarawak Cultural Village is a ‘Living Museum’ that occupies a 17-acres space, with replicas of traditional longhouses, and about 150 residents demonstrating conventional daily activities of Sarawak’s diverse tribes. Visitors will be treated to various dance and cultural performances, and will also be able to obtain information on the state’s native cultures from the Village’s residents.

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CHAPTER 1 Property Development

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An artistâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s impression of KL Eco City, set to be one of Malaysiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s largest integrated commercial and residential development that sits on 25 acres of prime land at Pantai Baru, Bangsar in Kuala Lumpur.

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S P SETIA Building “LiveLearnWorkPlay” communities

Setia Eco Park located in Shah Alam is known as ‘The Valley of Dreams’ for its scenic landscape. 25% of land area has been allocated for the creation of waterways, lakes, creeks, landscape themed parks, lush walkways and forest park for the enjoyment of its residents.

S P Setia, Malaysia’s leading property developer, backed by over 40 years of experience in the property and construction industry is a familiar name in the property industry. With a clear vision, bold plan and strong team, S P Setia, incorporated in the year 1974, refocused its core business to property development with supporting business in construction, infrastructure and wood-based manufacturing in 1996. MADE IN MALAYSIA Homegrown, S P Setia has established a strong presence in the state of Selangor, Penang, Johor and Sabah, the four key economic regions in Malaysia. Recognised as Malaysia’s leading listed real estate player with proven track record of innovation-driven and standard-setting eco developments, S P Setia has built a solid base in the country, offering an extensive product range which includes Townships, Eco Homes, Luxury Homes, High Rise Residences, Retail & Commercial Properties and Integrated Developments. In the state of Selangor, its flagship township, the 2,525-acre Setia Alam and 791-acre Setia Eco Park continues to launch innovative products with high take up rate. Recently developed townships include Setia EcoHill in Semenyih and Setia Eco Glades in Cyberjaya, both developed with environmental friendly features and green design concepts across the masterplan. In the city of Kuala Lumpur, KL Eco City, an integrated mixed development, designed with sustainability at its core will function as a nexus of residential, commercial and recreational for its surrounding community.

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In Penang, Johor and Sabah, the Group continues to deliver quality products such as Setia Business Park I & II and Setia Eco Cascadia, S P Setia’s latest eco township in Johor, Setia Sky Vista and Setia V Residences in Penang and Aeropod, in Kota Kinabalu, Sabah. Driven by its vision – to be the best in all we do – S P Setia has earned numerous awards locally as well as internationally for its outstanding performance over the years. Its product and service quality is recognised by the industry and attested by its No.1 ranking in The Edge Malaysia Top Property Developers Awards which it won for the 8th time in 2013. No other developer has achieved this feat since the inception of the awards. Besides, S P Setia is also the only property developer in Malaysia to be bestowed eight FIABCI Malaysia Property Awards and was rewarded with six award recognition by the International Real Estate Federation (FIABCI). THE “LIVELEARNWORKPLAY” DNA S P Setia’s vision of excellence and commitment to product and service quality are the cornerstones of its success. It has grown beyond building to creating and nurturing vibrant communities in environments where all can live, learn, work and play. Via innovatively designed sustainable eco townships, a growing range of infrastructure and amenities on top of increased security services, the LIVELEARNWORKPLAY philosophy has been deeply embedded into each of S P Setia’s development. For example, Setia Eco Park earmarked some 25% of its land area for the creation

of waterways, lakes, creeks, landscaped themed parks, lush walkways and forest park in this private estate for the enjoyment of its residents. Developed based on the same philosophy, Setia EcoHill made provisions for a commercial centre as well as farmer’s market to provide opportunities for the nearby organic farms and market gardens to sell their produce directly to its residents, truly ensuring a sustainable lifestyle. The company is also continuously looking for new ways to incorporate sustainability in all of its developments. In recent years, the company endeavoured to meet international benchmarks for green architecture as well as sustainable developments, and its efforts are gaining recognition from industry authorities such as the Green Building Index (GBI) and BCA Green Mark.

An artist’s impression of Fulton Lane, S P Setia’s first foray into Australia. Fulton Lane is located right in the heart of Melbourne’s cosmopolitan city surrounded by shopping and dining outlets.

S P SETIA’S PRIME PROJECTS

An artist’s impression of the Battersea Power Station, London. Once a barren place, Battersea Power Station is on its way to become one of London’s iconic landmark, integrated with S P Setia’s DNA as a Live, Learn, Work and Play hub.

MALAYSIA • Central Region (Klang Valley): Setia Alam, Setia Eco Park, Setia Sky Residences, SetiaWalk, KL Eco City, Setia Eco Glades, Setia EcoHill and Setia Putrajaya • Southern Region (Johor): Bukit Indah, Setia Indah, Setia Tropika, Setia Eco Gardens, Setia Eco Cascadia, Setia Business Park I & II and Setia Sky 88 • Northern Region (Penang): Setia Pearl Island, Setia Greens, 11 Brook Residences, Setia V Residences and Setia Sky Vista • Eastern Region (Sabah): Aeropod

UK • Battersea Power Station AUSTRALIA • Fulton Lane • Parque SINGAPORE • 18 Woodsville • Eco Sanctuary VIETNAM • EcoLakes at My Phuoc • EcoXuan at Lai Thieu

S P Setia has two projects in Vietnam known as EcoLakes at My Phuoc, located 30km outside Ho Chi Minh City and Eco Xuan at Lai Thieu in Tuan An District, Binh Doung Province. EcoLakes was named First Runner-up in the FIABCI Prix d’Excellence Award for Best Development Master Plan in 2010.

Setia Eco Gardens is a multiple award-winning eco township in the development region of Iskandar Malaysia in Johor, which offers the perfect canvas for eco living with hilly surroundings, natural rivers and lush forests.

CUSTOMER-CENTRIC VISION S P Setia’s commitment to its customers extends beyond building quality homes. The company make every effort to reward its loyal customers via the creation of vibrant communities to safeguarding its communities, ensuring the highest value creation to customers. S P Setia ensures that every Setia home is built to meet the highest standards and handed over to customers on schedule. Security at every development is also the developer’s greatest priorities. Every aspect from planning strategic entry and exit points to designing pedestrian-friendly road systems to installing top-of-the-line home security system and providing child-safe playgrounds, S P Setia is constantly meticulous about customers’ needs at all times.

The developer is also mindful to provide customer service beyond the call of duties, going out of the way to provide excellent customer service. THRIVING GLOBALLY S P Setia has also spread its wings to Vietnam, Singapore, Australia, China and more recently the United Kingdom as part of its strategy to achieve accelerated growth to boost its international profile and enhance forward earnings. One of the most outstanding and iconic developments under its international portfolio is the Battersea Power Station in London, which is fast becoming one of the capital city’s most exclusive residential and commercial addresses. S P Setia’s achievement in London has elevated its brand recognition globally.

In 2009, S P Setia established an office in Singapore and two years later, the Group acquired a 29,440 sq ft site to develop a high-rise condominium called 18 Woodsville. The successful launch of this project spurred the developer to acquire another parcel of land for the luxury highrise project of Eco Sanctuary. S P Setia previewed its first project in Melbourne called Fulton Lane in 2011 and a year later it acquired another piece of land on the upmarket St Kilda Road, also in the City of Melbourne for its Parque project. In April 2012, S P Setia was invited by the Malaysian Government to lead the Malaysian consortium formed to jointly develop the China-Malaysia Qinzhou Industrial Park (QIP).

S P SETIA BERHAD (19698-X) S P Setia Bhd Corporate HQ No.12, Persiaran Setia Dagang Setia Alam, Seksyen U13 40170 Shah Alam Selangor Darul Ehsan, Malaysia Tel: +603 3348 2255 Fax: +603 3344 3232 Email: corp@spsetia.com www.spsetia.com.my

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CHAPTER 2 Construction

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PJ8, Petaling Jaya

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IJM Corporation Berhad Delivering exceptional results. Exceeding expectations.

THE LIGHT Waterfront, Penang

In 1983, three medium-sized local construction companies agreed to merge in order to be a stronger player against foreign rivals in the construction industry. Thus IJM was formed from the strategic alliance of IGB Construction Sdn Bhd, Jurutama Sdn Bhd and Mudajaya Sdn Bhd. The formation proved to be fruitful as the new company established itself as a solid, professionally-run construction outfit and quickly gained significant market acceptance. IJM kept building its portfolio and brand over the years, winning projects that demand strict execution capabilities and thus cementing its reputation as a prominent builder. Due to its consistent and exponential growth, the company was able to go public in 1986 with a market capitalisation of RM66 million and total assets worth RM172 million. Today, IJM is a RM20 billion conglomerate with a group market capitalisation in excess of RM10 billion. CREST ABOVE THE REST From the construction business, it was only natural for IJM to progress into property development. Today, the group’s property development arm, IJM Land is

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one of the largest, most well-known and trusted property developers in the country. Over the years, IJM have helped shaped Malaysia’s township landscape and built thriving communities that are well sustainable into the future. IJM Land’s vast portfolio includes integrated townships, iconic waterfront community, luxury homes, landed and high-rise residences, offices and commercial properties in prime areas of Penang, the Greater Kuala Lumpur, Seremban, Johor, Sabah and Sarawak. IJM has also built a reputation as a township developer in India and has further extended its global footprint in Singapore, USA and Australia. Currently, IJM Land has development projects in Vietnam, China and London. IJM continues to grow organically with the group’s Industry Division expanding

Besraya Eastern Extension Expressway

from originally supporting the company’s in-house projects to catering to the demands and needs of external parties, thus strengthening IJM’s foothold as a key supplier of essential materials to the construction industry. Industrial Concrete Products Sdn Bhd (ICP) is the industry arm of IJM with its main business activities encompassing the manufacturing of pretensioned spun high strength concrete piles, quarry operations, ready-mixed concrete, PC bar and scaffolding. IJM’s

Kuantan Port, Pahang

ICP Piles Stockyard in Jiangmen, China

Desa Talisai Estate, Sandakan

Kuantan Quarry, Pahang

commitment to quality and delivery has enabled the company to establish itself as the market leader in the manufacturing and supply of pretensioned spun high strength concrete piles not only for heavy engineering solutions but also high rise buildings. ICP piles are exported to many countries across the world including USA, Canada, Middle East, Singapore, Myanmar, Vietnam, Maldives and China. In order to broaden earning base in challenging business environment, IJM diversified into the construction of infrastructure to help generate new revenue streams. From Malaysia to China, India, Vietnam and Latin America, IJM’s expertise in building transportation systems, power plants and water treatment facilities has helped enrich communities in the cities and countries where it operates. IJM now owns an impressive portfolio of infrastructure concessions such as the Western Access Tollway in Argentina, five tolled highways and the Gautami power plant in India including the Binh An water treatment plant in Vietnam. Back home in Malaysia, IJM owns and operates the New Pantai Expressway (NPE), Besraya Expressway

and the Kajang-Seremban Highway (LEKAS) as well as the Kuantan Port. It also owns a stake in the West Coast Expressway concession project which is currently undergoing construction. A division of the company that may seem unrelated but has proven to be an asset to the group against the cyclical nature of other businesses is nonetheless their venture into oil palm plantation in 1985. IJM Plantations Berhad, listed on the Main Market of Bursa Malaysia has significantly contributed to the group’s earnings over time, especially during IJM’s early years as a construction company subjected to the cyclical nature of the construction industry. The growth of IJM Plantations has been rapid and the division is now expanding its plantation operations to Indonesia. IJM Plantations has been recognised as a well–managed company while setting benchmarks in the plantations industry. REMARKABLE SUCCESS IJM’s regional aspirations pave the path for a global future, replete with growth opportunities and to become the leading Malaysian conglomerate

in its chosen fields of construction, property, industry, plantation and infrastructure. Today, the IJM Group has over 4,500 employees to whom the company acknowledges as having been instrumental in ensuring its continued success. With an eye towards good corporate citizenship and sustainable growth and development, IJM remains dedicated towards conducting business in an ethical manner and delivering quality products and services in a timely manner, true to its tagline “We Deliver”.

Wisma IJM, Jalan Yong Shook Lin, 46050 Petaling Jaya, Selangor Darul Ehsan, Malaysia Tel: +603 7985 8288 Fax: +603 7952 9388 www.ijm.com

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CHAPTER 3 Infrastructure

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An aerial view of the underground Cochrane MRT Station with two Variable Density Tunnel Boring Machines in position, with the scenic Kuala Lumpur city skyline seen in a distance.

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CHAPTER 4 Logistics

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WESTPORTS MALAYSIA Staying on the go with Westports

Westports Malaysia, which has positioned itself as a “pit stop” for container vessels plying one of the busiest waterways in the world: The Straits of Malacca, has been growing from strength to strength since it started operations 20 years ago. Today, it is a transhipment mega hub which helps to propel Port Klang into the 12th busiest in the world. Westports’ strategic location definitely plays an important role. Situated along the Straits of Malacca, this location has allowed Westports to enjoy a steady growth throughout the years. In 2002, the port handled 2 million TEUS and by 2014, this has increased to 8.4 million TEUs. This is considerably higher than the global average of 8.3%. To date, the port is capable of handling 11 million TEUs, with the current 4,600 metres of quay length and 52 ship-to-shore cranes. WORLD-CLASS STANDARDS Westports, headed by its Executive Chairman, Tan Sri Datuk G Gnanalingam, and its Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Ruben Emir Gnanalingam, currently provides a wide range of port facilities, including marine services, rental and other related services, while maintaining world-class

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standards in handling container and conventional cargo. It commands a 76% market share of the container volume in Port Klang. Given that a fast turnaround for vessels and high productivity are critical ingredients for success for a port, Westports has been able to sustain these by achieving an average container productivity of 35 gross moves per hour (MPH) per crane compared to the industry standard of 27mph. This makes it one of the top ports in the world in terms of productivity. The port also continues to ensure health and safety environments through professional certifications of ISO 27001, ISO 14001 and OHSAS 18001. The Silver Award for Safety by International Association of Ports and Harbours (IAPH) attests to Westports’ commitment towards safety: SUCCESS STORIES Westports’ success has not gone unrecognised. In the last 20 years, the company has won over 40 accolades and awards and these are centred in six key areas – productivity, IT, customer

service, best employer, best terminal and corporate social responsibility. Some of its notable awards include: Brand Laureate Award for Top 10 Master’s Award in Logistics by Asia Pacific Brands Foundation, Brand Laureate Award for Best Brands in Logistics – Ports by Asia Pacific Brands Foundation, Excellence in Logistics Award at the Technology Business Review Association of Southeast Asian Nations Awards, Best Emerging Terminal Award by Lloyd’s List Maritime Asia, Top 10 Container Ports awards at the Asian Freight Industry Awards, Technology Business Review Award for Excellence in Logistics – Port Services by Brand Laureate and Brand Laureate Award

for Best Brands Awards – Ports/Terminals by Asia Pacific Brands Foundation. COMMITMENT TO THE BEST Westports’ dedication to building its brand is reflected in its innovative approach to expanding new automation and services via its new Information Technology (IT) service portal: E-Terminal Plus. Currently, Westports has invested over RM70 million in IT, demonstrating its commitment to provide the best for its customers. Another key component in Westports’ success is the company’s strong corporate culture attributed to its uniquely unified workforce of Malaysians. True to its tag line “Proven Trusted Friendly” this mantra is deeply ingrained in its culture among the Westports’ workforce via three key areas: • Focusing on performance, with emphasis on productivity irrespective of which area employees contribute to; • Innovation where employees are encouraged to come up with innovative ideas irrespective of their level or rank within the organization; • And finally, a sense of family amongst employees The awards won by the company serve as a testament to Westports’ strong corporate culture; these include Best Employer Award by Ministry of Human Resources, Asia HRD Congress Award by HRD Congress and Human Resource Development Award by Human Resource Minister. Westports also believes that charity starts at home and has focused much of its CSR programs on the community around Pulau Indah in Port Klang. These initiatives have three main objectives – poverty eradication through financial assistance and job opportunities, improvement in the quality of life and living standards as well as enhancement of education and health standards. Westports has been recognized for its aid to the needy. It has won, among others, the Corporate Social Responsibility of the Year award given by Containerisation

International and Corporate Social Responsibility Award at the Asia Pacific Young Business Conference. FUTURE FORWARD Holding true to key traditions and values, Westports stays on the go by using social media to reach out to the public. Westports uses this as a tool to bring in repeat businesses, facilitate open communication and provide enhanced information for discovery and delivery. Current and past employees are now able to use the logistics community as an avenue to discuss ideas, news and views. Adopting this platform has allowed Westports to widen its business contacts and enabled it to have a wider target audience. Westports contributions are not only limited to those that are mentioned above; they also expand to others areas involving communities, environment and sector

development of which they have received acknowledgement for including Century International Quality Era (CQE) Award 2013 by Business Initiative Directions, Sahabat Negara SME Award 2013 by SMI Malaysia, Platinum Award for Community, Silver Award for Environment, National Landscape Award by Ministry of Housing and Local Development. , Super Brand Award by the Malaysian Super Brands Council and FIABCI Award for Best Sector Development

www.westportsmalaysia.com

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CHAPTER 5 Healthcare

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INSTITUT JANTUNG NEGARA Malaysiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s premier heart specialist centre that cares beyond your heart

with the treatment, kindness, care and comfort that they require. SPECIALISED SERVICES Offering a comprehensive range of services for cardiovascular medicine IJN specialises in both diagnostic and therapeutic procedures, including cardiac surgery for open heart, closed heart, thoracic and transplants. Within the institute, there are a wide variety of treatment options for heart conditions ranging from the simplest hole in the heart surgery to the most complex heart transplants. In addition to surgical procedures there are also a range of services from diet advice to heart screening to cardiac rehabilitation. The institute also houses a number of associated cardiac treatment clinics. Staffed by an experienced and committed team of specialist cardiologist, surgeons, anaesthesiologists, paramedics and clinical support staff, IJN is dedicated to serve the needs of heart patients, whether old or young via world-class heart related services. For the comfort and optimal rejuvenation of their patients, IJN provides top-notch facilities to complement their medical services. IJNâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s in-patient facilities combine the most advanced treatment facilities with family-friendly wards that encompass

Emerging as a centre of excellence, Institut Jantung Negara (IJN) takes the spotlight as a premier heart specialist institution in Malaysia committed to delivering exceptional standards in cardiovascular and thoracic medicine for adult and paediatric heart patients. Located in Kuala Lumpur, this institution was established on 1st August 1992. Since the foundation of the institute, IJN has treated over two million patients and gained recognition as one of the leading Cardiovascular and Thoracic Health Centre in the region. Today, IJN takes pride in their state-of-theart facilities and services as well as their highly competent medical team who have full expertise in handling emergencies and even the most complicated cases. Along with keeping abreast of medical advances and modern technologies, IJN ensures that every single patient will be provided

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a selection of beautifully-appointed suites and a choice of comfortable 2 bedded and 4 bedded rooms. All suites and rooms are air-conditioned and equipped with television, telephone, attached bathroom and nurse-call system. Whilst being a specialist cardiovascular and thoracic centre, IJN also offers services that cater to the general wellbeing of patients. These include specialist clinics such as the Renal Denervation Screen Clinic, Respiratory Clinic, Respiratory Clinic, Diabetes Clinic and Quit Smoking Clinic, making the institute a one-stop centre for all heart care requirements. Additionally, an International Patient Centre (IPC) has also been set up to cater to an ever increasing number of international patients that arrive at IJN. To facilitate overseas patient preparations, services at IPC include: Visa and immigration assistance, medical co-ordination, hospital admissions and discharges as well as travel-related assistance and more.

ABOVE THE REST To ensure IJN continues to be the leading heart institution in the region there are a number of on-going support training schemes and a series of research and development activities. There are also collaborations with leading international medical establishments such as the UKâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Papworth Hospital and the Herz-und in Germany, allowing IJN to introduce modern clinical techniques. IJN is also responsible for training surgeons and cardiologists who go on to serve in hospitals across Malaysia and is the most preferred centre for trainee cardiovascular and thoracic specialists and surgeons from countries like Japan, Brunei, Indonesia, Pakistan, Sudan, Vietnam and Yemen. Being a centre of excellence, IJN has pioneered several firsts in cardiovascular and thoracic healthcare and training programmes, making it the premier go-to centre in the ASEAN region and the world. It continues to provide even more top-ofthe-line heartcare services to Malaysian and international patients. IJN is also

the only institution in the country wholly dedicated to cardiac treatment for both adult and paediatric patients. Since IJN was established in 1992, more than 2.2 million patients have come to the Institute for care, out of which over 238,453 have been treated in their wards. During the same period, 59,674 surgeries have been performed, 146,031 of their patients have also undergone interventional cardiology procedures since they have begun operations. Within the Paediatric Cardiology Heart Centre, 16,767 paediatric cardiothoracic surgeries and 15,262 paediatric cardiology invasive procedures have been performed. Maintaining its position as the centre of excellence in cardiovascular and thoracic care remains the core driver of IJN, while at the same time promoting Malaysiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s dynamic medical service industry within Asia and beyond. With its combination of world-class equipment and the absolute best in human resources, service delivery and innovation, IJN is truly a trusted and respected institute both locally and globally.

145 Jalan Tun Razak, 50400 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia Tel: +603 2617 8200 www.ijn.com.my

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CHAPTER 6 Education & Learning

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STANDING TALL: UCSI University is one of Malaysiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s first private universities. It impacts thousands of students each year at its four campuses in Kuala Lumpur, Sarawak and Terengganu.

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UCSI UNIVERSITY Knowledge for Global Action

MELTING POT: International students from over 80 countries make up around 30% of UCSI University’s student population, making it a dynamic hub of culture and diversity.

UCSI University is a vibrant community of learning and scholarship. It offers an education others don’t, provides experiences others can’t, and delivers life-defining outcomes for young people, everywhere. With 30 years of academic excellence behind it, UCSI stands out as one of Malaysia’s foremost private universities. It’s also a cultural melting pot. The University hosts around 9,000 students from over 80 countries at its campuses in Kuala Lumpur, Kuching, and Kuala Terengganu. Students come from nations as far as Canada, Denmark, Russia, and Germany, among others, and the diversity on campus caters to an exhilarating learning environment that promotes the cross-fertilisation of ideas. The University’s academic offerings are as eclectic as its student cohort. Around 100 leading programmes are offered

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in the fields of medicine, engineering, biotechnology, information technology, business, hospitality, music, the social sciences, design, and many more. As the Praxis® University, UCSI emphasises the practical application of knowledge. Each programme is designed in consultation with an industry panel and curricula is constantly updated to address the current – and future – needs of the industry. The results are self-evident: Tracer studies conducted by the Ministry of Education place UCSI in pole position in the area of graduate employability. Much of this is down to the efficacy of UCSI’s extensive industry network. The University partners with more than 2,100 of the world’s leading companies and this opens doors for students in the areas of internship programmes, research opportunities, technology transfers,

and of course, future employment. Increasingly, UCSI students have secured overseas internships in Japan, Hong Kong, Singapore, Ireland and Britain, to name a few. Excellence personified Not resting on its laurels, UCSI embarked on a strategic thrust to meet the higherorder needs of industry and academia. The pursuit and expansion of knowledge was prioritised and much effort was spent to attract the right academics who would put the University on the global map. This decade-long endeavour has paid off and today, UCSI is synonymous with pathbreaking research and enhanced avenues for postgraduate study. The University’s Vice-Chancellor and President, Senior Professor Dato’ Dr Khalid Yusoff – one of Malaysia’s leading cardiologists – is instrumental in

OPENING DOORS: Cherish Chong Chiu Wern – UCSI University’s top medical student – was selected in 2014 to spend a research year at Harvard University under the Global Clinical Scholars Research Training Programme.

BRIGHT FUTURES: UCSI University is synonymous with graduate employability and students regularly receive job offers before they even graduate. The University partners with leading industry players to ensure its curriculum is up to date.

this endeavour. As one of Malaysia’s leading researchers, Prof Khalid sets the example by driving world-class research with fellow researchers from the world’s best universities like Harvard, Duke, Melbourne, Sydney, McMaster and the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine. Under his leadership, UCSI has forged collaborative links with renowned universities, opening a world of possibilities for students and staff. To illustrate, UCSI’s top medical student, Cherish Chong Chiu Wern, was recently hand-picked to spend a research year

at Harvard University under its Global Clinical Scholars Research Training Programme – a first for a private university in Malaysia. At least one UCSI medical student will enjoy the same privilege each year in what has become a recurring arrangement. Similar tieups with other renowned universities are in the pipeline as UCSI adds to its existing partnerships with universities in the Russell Group, Universitas 21 and Australia’s Group of Eight. UCSI students have also recorded personal milestones over the years. Its

Engineering students have won top prizes in international competitions organised by Schlumberger. From developing plug-ins to test oil wells to enhancing the rate of oil recovery, UCSI students constantly get recognised for their endeavours. The Pharmacy faculty also stands out in this regard. Undergraduate students have published their research findings in high-impact international journals. And by working with Doctors Without Borders, UCSI Pharmacy graduates are making a difference in some of the world’s most challenging and endemic-hit regions in South Sudan, Syria, Pakistan and Ukraine. The success stories are not limited to the fields of science. UCSI houses the Institute of Music – Malaysia’s premier music school in both classical and contemporary fields – and the University has launched careers for some of the biggest names in Malaysia’s music industry. Performing artists Dr Joanne Yeoh and Dennis Lau, jazz pianist Liu Wei Zhong, and acclaimed music director San

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GLOBAL NURSES: Evidence-based learning and client-centred care make UCSI’s nursing students highly in demand by employers. Many have pursued careers in Australia, the United States and Singapore.

Weng Onn are some of the many who count themselves as proud alumni. The University continues to realise potential and music students have enjoyed the invaluable opportunity of performing with the Malaysian Philharmonic Orchestra. Some go even further by winning international competitions and performing at the grandest stages like Carnegie Hall – all while they are still studying. Essentially, the who’s who of Malaysian music have studied, are teaching or once taught at UCSI and this trend looks set to continue indefinitely. Making a difference Societal impact is another core focus at UCSI. The University recognises its role in driving innovation and leading change, not just for students, but for communities, industries and ultimately, the nation. UCSI is the only university to champion two Entry Point Projects (EPPs) in Malaysia’s Economic Transformation Programme that seeks to elevate the nation to high income status. The first, EPP8, will see UCSI establishing a healthcare cluster in the education township of Bandar Springhill in Negeri Sembilan. Moving in tandem

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with Malaysia’s emphasis on medical advancement, UCSI will build a 1,000-bed teaching hospital that will offer a wide range of specialist services, providing holistic state-of-the-art healthcare to patients at home and abroad. The hospital will be PRIZE WINNERS: UCSI’s interior architecture students swept 13 prizes at built in stages and it the 17th MIID Interior Design Competition 2013. UCSI vice-chancellor and president, Senior Prof Dato’ Dr Khalid Yusoff (centre) shows his support. will complement an international school These developments, and more, put UCSI and a hotel that are in good stead to discover knowledge, designed to turn the township into a hub nurture innovation, and prepare students of learning and medical tourism. for future-proof careers in today’s everchanging world. The University recognises The next endeavour, code named EPP10, that the true measure of success is written is more ambitious as the Government is by that of its students. And it will not rest entrusting UCSI to energise and revamp until they get to where they’re supposed to Malaysia’s tourism and hospitality be: the best in the business. sector through education. To match the industry’s estimated threefold growth by 2020, around 50,000 industry personnel must be trained each year by 2020. More pertinently, it was decided that at least 50% of the workforce – up from the current 16% – must possess diplomalevel qualifications to ensure the provision of quality service.

UCSI University Kuala Lumpur Campus No. 1, Jalan Menara Gading, UCSI Heights (Taman Connaught), Cheras 56000 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia Tel: (+603) 9101 8880 Fax: (+603) 9102 2614 www.ucsiuniversity.edu.my

UCSI INTERNATIONAL SCHOOLS Changing ideas. Changing destinies.

WORLD CLASS: UCSI International School in Bandar Springhill, Port Dickson is built on a 20-acre stretch of land and is equipped with tennis courts, a football field and an Olympic-sized swimming pool. It is one of the few International Baccalaureate World Schools in Malaysia to offer a full boarding experience.

teachers and offers a wide range of IB programmes from the Primary Years Programme to the IB Diploma – widely regarded as the world’s best pre-university qualification. Boasting state-of-theart recreational and boarding facilities, the school is run by an expert team of expatriate teachers who hail from Britain, Canada and the United States, among other nations. BRITISH EDUCATION: Located in the urban hub of the Klang Valley, the UCSI International School in Subang Jaya offers a world-class British education through the International General Certificate of Secondary School Education (IGCSE) curriculum.

UCSI International Schools are established to make a difference. The mission of each school is to provide a challenging international education that will nurture students to become knowledgeable and responsible global citizens. Holistic education is promoted at every opportunity and personalised attention is given to fulfill the potential of each and every student. The first UCSI International School was established in the education township of Bandar Springhill, Negeri Sembilan. An International Baccalaureate (IB) World School that offers students the option to board, the school is staffed by expatriate

The second UCSI International School in Subang Jaya was launched with Klang Valley learners in mind. Running the International General Certificate of Secondary Education (IGCSE) curriculum, the school is a strong draw for learners who prefer a British curriculum that open doors for them as they mature. Also staffed by an international team of teachers, the school has quickly established itself as a school of choice for Selangor residents. Due to popular demand, a third international school will soon be established in Bandar Seri Iskandar, Perak. Like its sister schools, the third school seeks to impact its surrounding community as it develops the human capital that will shape the future.

AN ENJOYABLE EXPERIENCE: Through a holistic education approach, students of UCSI International Schools in Bandar Springhill and Subang Jaya are guided to excel both in and outside the classroom. As a result, our students achieve – and remain happy, confident and enthusiastic.

UCSI International School - Springhill No. 1, Persiaran UCSI, Bandar Springhill, 71010 Port Dickson, Negeri Sembilan,Malaysia Tel: (+606) 653 6888 Fax: (+606) 653 6999

UCSI International School - Subang Jaya Lot 4891, Jalan SS13/4, 47500 Subang Jaya, Selangor Darul Ehsan, Malaysia Tel: (+603) 5637 7108 Fax: (+603) 5637 7110 www.ucsiinternationalschool.edu.my

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CHAPTER 7 Conference & Exhibition

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PUTRA WORLD TRADE CENTRE Your One Stop Centre For All Events

Putra World Trade Centre (PWTC) is located in the heart of Kuala Lumpur, the capital city of Malaysia. The Centre plays host to over 1,000 major events per year. Sprawling over 160,000 sq.m and with 24,000 sq.m of exhibition space. PWTC has 1 Plenary hall (Dewan Merdeka), 2 multi-purpose halls, 4 exhibition halls and a large foyer area for exhibitions, 17 small meeting rooms, 1 Press Conference room and VIP suites. Other facilities include organiserâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s office, registration counters, a Muslim prayer hall (Surau), a CafĂŠ, Restaurant and Lounge.

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In addition to the 4 exhibition halls, there is also a large outdoor space to handle tented exhibitions and foyer area, Legar Putra. Periphery amenities include a World Trade Centre Club, Art Gallery, bank, post office, bookstore, money changer and boutique. Adjoining PWTC and within the vicinity are two 5-star hotels and a major shopping mall. The Centre is fully equipped with state-of-the-art facilities that make it the ideal, world class venue for conventions, conferences, exhibitions, trade show, meetings, banquets and concerts.

Full banqueting services are provided and supervised by experienced and award-winning Chefs from the Malay, Western, Chinese and Indian kitchens. The PWTC is well located with easy access by major roads, Light Rail Transit (LRT), Commuter trains, Monorail trains, taxies and public buses. It is about 45 minutes drive from Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) and 20 minutes by Express Rail Link (ERL). The PWTC has ample parking space with 750 bays within the Centre itself. Within the vicinity are 1,500 parking bays in the Shopping Mall

and 1,200 parking bays in the Hentian Putra located just across the road from the Centre. Accessibility, superb facilities and experienced staff have made Putra World Trade centre the preferred venue for some of the worlds most important and elaborate exhibitions, conventions, concerts, product launches, banquets and many other events. PWTC was named the 2009 – 2010 Iconic Landmark for Country Branding at The BrandLaureate Award by the Asia Pacific Brands Foundation in March 2010, for the next award, PWTC was named as the Best Destinations 2012 Travel Award for Best Meetings and Conference Centre – Asia. This Travel Award, into its fifth year, is organised by

Business Destinations magazine based in London. Another award for PWTC when named Malaysia’s Prominent Brand in conjunction with Malaysia Independence Award 1957 @ ‘Anugerah Merdeka’ and The International Corporate Award (ICA) – International Client Choice award 2014.

Level 3, 41 Jalan Tun Ismail 50480 Kuala Lumpur Wilayah Persekutuan Malaysia Tel: 603-2614 6999 Fax: 603-4043 3777 pwtc@pwtc.com.my www.pwtc.com.my

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CHAPTER 8 Retail & Trading

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CHAPTER 9 Oil & Gas

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Enhanced Sustainability The oil and gas industry has played a prominent role in the Malaysian economy since oil was first drilled in 1910 in Sarawak. The sector contributes to one-fifth of the national Gross Domestic Product (GDP) over the past decade. Malaysian-based oil and gas companies has proved to be competent in providing services in the areas of exploration and production (E&P), and many other multi-disciplinary services such as process design, instrumentation, engineering, piping and environmental management. Despite rising domestic demand, Malaysia is also a leading exporter of oil and gas.

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With Malaysia being Southeast Asiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s second-largest oil producer and having the fifth-largest reserves in the Asia-Pacific region, less expensive fuel can be made available for the domestic market, while substantial benefits can be had from international sales of oil and gas. Given the sectorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s immense potential, government developmental projects and initiatives have been drafted to enhance the services and manufacturing sub-sectors in the industry, and also ensure constant production levels. Plans are also in the works for moving into alternative forms of sustainable energy, ranging from solar power to electric vehicles.

Segments in the oil and gas industry are generally categorised as upstream, midstream and downstream activities. Upstream activities consist of exploration, development and production of oil and gas resources. Meanwhile, midstream and downstream activities range from refining, processing, and transportation of oil and gas, to marketing and trading of end products. Being a crude oil producer and exporter, Malaysia has a mature upstream oil and gas segment, leading to a well-established ecosystem of service and manufacturing companies that have set up base. However, to serve the rapidly growing domestic market,

more attention has been given to the development of downstream activities, such as refining and petrochemicals engineering. Being a designated key industry in the Economic Transformation Programme (ETP), the main aim is for the oil, gas and energy industry to achieve 5% in growth annually, from 2010 up until 2020. The sector is also expected to generate RM131.4 billion for Malaysia’s gross national income, and to create 52,300 new jobs by that time. To generate the needed investment for achieving those targets, the government had devised various tax incentive programmes for industry players. Furthermore, the ETP will be paying attention to several growth areas, including the development of sustainable oil and gas production, providing better supply of oil and gas to end users, and gradually making Malaysia the number one hub for oil and gas storage and trading in Asia. As more oil fields mature amidst rising domestic consumption and export market demands, a key part of Malaysia’s energy plans involves maximising the value of existing maturing oil fields through implementing techniques of enhanced oil recovery (EOR), improved oil recovery (IOR), and improved gas recovery (IGR).

Additionally, with Malaysia having achieved status as the world’s secondlargest liquefied natural gas (LNG) exporter in 2013, strides were also made to capitalise on the nation’s strategic geographical location to increase its value as an oil and gas logistics centre. LNG infrastructures will also be expanded to accommodate the increasing supplies of natural gas. The developments outlined in the ETP will be headed by Malaysia’s national oil company, Petroleum National (PETRONAS), supported by several major industry players, and also in cooperation with government ministries involved in the sector. With combined efforts from the government bodies and private companies involved, Malaysia’s oil and gas sector is predicted to remain healthy for the foreseeable future, with new discoveries tapped, expansion projects underway, and new exploration opportunities to be seized. The generous financial incentives and strategic efforts by PETRONAS should ensure continued investment flows into the sector.

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CHAPTER 10 Timber & Wood

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An Increasingly Valuable Commodity The Malaysian timber industry had come

Japan, USA and India are the main export

a long way from its humble beginnings in

destinations for Malaysian timber. Of

the early 20th century, where trees were

the numerous timber products, wooden

manually pit-sawn to produce planks.

furniture tops the list as the biggest

At present, Malaysia is one of the global

export item. This is due to the booming

leaders in the production and export of

local furniture industry which produces

timber products.

premium, value-for-money furniture that caters to more than 160 countries annually.

With over 61% of Malaysiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s land covered by stretches of forest, Malaysia is home

Malaysia ranked as the 10th largest

to more than 2,650 species of trees. From

furniture exporter in the world, with around

this natural bounty, an assortment of wood

80% of furniture produced are meant for

products has been made for the domestic

foreign markets. The largest market for

market and export. The different types of

Malaysian wooden furniture is the USA,

Malaysian hardwood are highly sought

which accounts for over 30% of total

after and utilised in various manufacturing

exports, followed by Japan and Australia.

industries for their multitude of grains and

As the countryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s position in the global

colours, which proved to be both durable

furniture industry grows stronger, Malaysia

and aesthetically pleasing. Among the

is targeting countries like UAE, Saudi

main timber products made and exported

Arabia, the Philippines, Russia, Algeria,

are logs, sawntimber, mouldings, veneer,

Greece, Puerto Rico and Libya as lucrative

plywood, particleboard, fibreboard,

export destinations.

carpentry items, and furniture.

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Malaysian wooden furniture gained

and some 375,000 hectors of new timber

popularity in the world of high fashion

plantation is expected to be created by

design for the discerning market, due

2020. Furthermore, the Malaysia Timber

largely to the availability of high quality

Certification Scheme has been carried out

tropical hardwoods such as Meranti,

to ensure sustainable logging practices in

Nyatoh and Ramin, and the skilled labour

forest plantations.

necessary in making such products. Recognising the furniture industryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s role in the economy, the government has set an annual growth target of 6.5% for wood based furniture, and the industryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s revenue is estimated to reach up to RM53 billion by year 2020. In addition to being high-grade and abundant in supply, Malaysian timber products are sourced and manufactured from sustainably managed forests. In fact, to meet rising demands, the government had taken measures to expand timber plantation areas since 2005 in an effort to reduce the need for sourcing from natural forests. Timber is currently the third-largest plantation crop in Malaysia,

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CHAPTER 11 Plantation & Agriculture

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Becoming a Bigger Economic Contributor The agriculture and plantation sectors is responsible for 7% of Malaysiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Gross Domestic Product (GDP), and looks set to continue being a vital economic growth component. Making up two National Key Economic Areas (NKEAs) in the Economic Transformation Programme (ETP), activities in this sector are significant contributors to export revenues, and play a major role in helping eradicate rural poverty. These sectors are also known to draw in both foreign and domestic investors. As Malaysia seeks to ensure greater food security and increase value-added production, the agriculture and plantation sector is receiving more attention and encouragement from the government. Investment and incentives are being poured into Research and Development (R&D) to aid companies and industry players. Projects that are set to boost both sectorsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; productivity through expanding cultivation areas, planting and replanting projects, and use of machineries are also well underway.

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Plantations in Malaysia are dominated by oil palm and white rubber, which produce the main industrial commodities. Other important crops include timber, cocoa and pepper, most of which are grown in East Malaysia. In fact, Malaysia is the world leader in the production of crude palm oil, from which food products and alternative energy sources were developed from. Malaysia is also the sixth-largest producer of natural rubber in the world. As such, the palm oil and rubber NKEA targets a RM230.9 billion contribution to gross national income by the two sectors by 2020. A series of projects connected to paddy farming are also being carries out with aims of enhancing the quality and quantity of rice production. The NKEA also includes investments in R&D for developing seeds for higher-yielding and more diseaseresistant paddy, and implementing new production systems which are more sustainable and eco-friendly than traditional methods.

There are smallholders in the agriculture sector which include vegetables, fruits, livestock and fisheries. Under the ETP, the government has embarked on reshaping the sector where smallholders are concerned by tackling the challenges in raising their incomes, and enabling them to compete with larger multinational agribusiness chains. The main goal of the Agriculture NKEA is to transform the sector from a small-scale production industry into an agribusiness-based sector that produces more value-added products. For developments to happen, strategies have been outlined to focus on expanding several niche areas such as aquaculture, herbal products, birdâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s nest swiftlet farming, seaweed production and livestock. The overall objectives are not only to improve production quality and marketing efforts, but also increase the traceability of these small segments while enforcing good manufacturing practices. Meanwhile, plans are also made for the fruits and vegetables segment to increase production of non-seasonal tropical fruits, and boost exports to the Middle East and Europe. With sustained investment from both the government and private companies, the agriculture and plantation sectors are expected to undergo larger expansion in the years leading up to 2020. Both sectorsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; contributions to the economy are projected to continue growing, along with enhancing the quality of life for rural populations.

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CHAPTER 12 Automotive

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The Market Centre & Gateway Numerous factors have proved Malaysia to be an attractive investment destination and centre for automotive and component manufacturing activities. Firstly, Malaysiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s central location in the ASEAN region means that companies based in the country will be able to reach a market of more than 600 million people. Global automotive manufacturers also benefit from probusiness policies, well-developed infrastructure, and an educated and skilled labour force. Additionally, the steady economic growth in Malaysia has resulted in a population with high purchasing power. In fact, Malaysia ranks among countries with high car ownership in Southeast Asia. Many leading automotive companies from Asia and Europe have set up base in Malaysia to take advantage of the burgeoning consumer demand, and also to launch their products to the region. At the same time, the domestic automotive industry has transformed from a vehicle assembler into a car manufacturer with the establishment of national automotive projects such as Proton and Perodua.

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To accelerate growth in the sector, the industrial township known as Proton City was built in the state of Perak. With developments expected to be fully completed by 2020, the town was meant to be the centre of Malaysiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s automotive industry. It is home to the Proton car assembly plant equipped with cuttingedge technology, and operated by a workforce of more than 2,000. Future development phases also include the construction of more factory lots for national car vendors. In 2006, the government introduced the National Automotive Policy (NAP) to help regulate the local automotive industry, and spur its development. Recently, in 2014, the NAP was revised to reflect the changes in the industry and marketplace. The goal is to promote a more competitive and sustainable domestic automotive industry, while also making Malaysia the centre for energy-efficient vehicles.

Malaysia has also become the production hub for a lot of major automotive component manufacturers, with more than 800 companies producing a wide range of car parts, from body panels and brakes to rubber and engine parts. An increasing number of component manufacturers not only cater to the Malaysian market, but are also exporting their products to other ASEAN and Asian countries. To encourage competitiveness in the automotive industry, Malaysia is committed to the intergovernmental ASEAN Free Trade Area (AFTA) agreement, which provides for plenty of export opportunities for manufacturing companies. Under the AFTA, carmakers will benefit from lower customs duties on imports and exports, and also be able to source cost-competitive components from ASEAN countries. Furthermore, Malaysiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s automotive sector is set for greater growth under the Malaysia-Japan Automotive Industrial Cooperation (MAJAICO), where 10 cooperative projects with one of the leading nations in automotive manufacturing have been launched and are well underway.

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CHAPTER 13 Courier & Delivery

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Keeping the Nation Connected

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An efficient functioning postal and courier service is essential to the economy and society as a whole. Even with the advent of technology that made various online transactions and correspondences faster and more convenient, the network of post offices across Malaysia remains an indispensible and important national infrastructure.

can securely reach their destinations within the country, and other parts of the world. In fact, reliable international courier service is a crucial logistics solution for manufacturing industries such as the Electrical and Electronic (E&E) sector, which is the leading contributor to Malaysiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s industrial development.

Delivering more than three million items each day, ranging from letters to parcels of varying sizes, Malaysiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s postal and courier sector is responsible for maintaining physical connectivity of over six million addresses nationwide. It is through the postal and courier sector that manufactured goods, important packages and documents

As more enterprises are turning to e-commerce to expand their market reach, and online shopping trend picks up, the postal and courier sector is set to play an even more important role in the economy. Since the sector continues to be labourintensive, its growth is expected to create more jobs.

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There are more than 100 registered courier service operators in Malaysia, comprising a mix of international industrial players and domestic operators. With the increase in volume of mail, higher levels of collaboration between the various segments in the postal and courier sectors are even more essential.

(NPS) launched in late 2010, which sets out a development plan for the period of 2010 until 2014. The NPS was formulated to lay the foundation for an efficient and accessible post office network that is conducive to better work sharing between the national postal service, Post Malaysia Berhad, and other industry players.

In an effort to ensure the national postal and courier service retains its relevance, the Malaysian government is committed to promote greater access and efficiency in the sector. A notable example is the National Postal Strategy

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CHAPTER 14 Electrical & Electronics

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Leading the Nation’s Industrialisation

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The electrical and electronics (E&E) industry is the leader in Malaysia’s manufacturing sector, contributing significantly to the country’s export revenue and employment rate. Continuously striving for higher valueadded production, focus is given to strengthen the market for semiconductors, solar and LED technologies – areas which Malaysia’s manufacturers have benefitted considerably due to rising global demand.

Consumer Electronics Rapid growth of this sub-sector, which includes the manufacture of LED television receivers, and various audiovisual products, was spearheaded by many renowned Japanese and Korean companies. At present, a number of leading consumer electronics manufacturers in Asia are basing their research and development activities in Malaysia to support their global markets.

The nation’s E&E industry can be categorised into four sub-sectors: consumer electronics, industrial electronics, electrical products and electronic components.

Industrial Electronics The second largest sub-sector consists of multimedia and information technology products, such as computers, telecommunication products and office equipment. This sub-sector comprises close to 30% of total investments approved in the nation’s E&E sector.

Electrical Products The largest sub-sector of the industry produces lightings, household appliances and solar related products. Malaysiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s E&E industry is at an advantageous position due to the many leading corporations in the LED and solar industry being based in the country. The presence of these industrial key players will contribute to the development of various solar products, which will further spur the growth of the industry. Because there is an increase in global awareness of the need for green technology and to encourage the usage of renewable energy, the government introduced the Feed-in-Tariff (FiT) in 2011 that allows electricity produced from indigenous renewable energy resources to be sold at a fixed premium price for a specific duration. Electronic Components This sub-sector includes semiconductor devices, passive components, printed circuits, substrates and connectors. The leading contributor in the performance of exports for this sub-sector is the manufacturing of semiconductor devices, largely due to the presence of numerous major private manufacturers based in Malaysia.

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CHAPTER 15 Media & Entertainment

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Into the Digital Age

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As mediums for entertainment and information are becoming increasingly digitalised around the world, certain markets that accommodate the changes in consumer spending habits are expected to flourish. Malaysiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s entertainment and media (E&M) industry is anticipated to grow at an above average rate up to 2017. The bulk of growth in the E&M spending is due to Malaysian populationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s rising internet access.

providers offering 4G networks steadily growing since 2013.

In effect, internet service providers are leading the E&M market, with revenues projected to double within the period of 2013 to 2017 because of the growing demand for reliable internet access. Malaysia has one of the fastest developing wireless broadband internet markets in the Asia Pacific region, with near-nationwide coverage for 3G networks and about 60% coverage for WiMAX networks, with the number of mobile service

Despite digital media becoming seemingly ubiquitous, conventional mediums such as newspaper publishing, TV subscriptions and physical home videos still account for majority of consumer spending. Print media subscription is the second highest consumer spending in Malaysiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s E&M sector, and is expected to continue market dominance in the near future for at least the next five years. Meanwhile, with younger consumers favouring

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In addition, transformative projects under the Economic Transformation Programme (ETP) initiative by the government are set to ensure the expansion of internet coverage nationwide, especially in rural areas. Under the ETP, approximately 1,000 telecommunication towers are to be built by 2016.

online news, digital newspaper and magazine subscription are estimated to double every two years alongside the increase in internet access. Besides the consumer market, the business-to-business market is also a fast growing segment of Malaysiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s E&M industry. This segment is aided by government initiatives as part of ETP to encourage the development of creative media content creation for the

TV, film, communication and mobile industries. As part of the initiative, the Creative Content Association Malaysia (CCAM) was formed to nurture talents within the Malaysian creative industry to world-class standard, and to help content creators break into international markets.

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CHAPTER 16 Banking & Finance

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The Economic Backbone Banking and financial services is the overall enabler of the nation’s economy, as the sector functions to provide various forms of capital that allows for all other industries to grow. Because of the emerging international financial services centres worldwide due to the increasingly globalised economy, Malaysia’s banking and financial services sector is also an important economic contributor in its own right. Hence, it is listed as one of the 12 National Key Economic Area (NKEA) in the nation’s Economic Transformation Programme (ETP). Focus has always been given to developing domestic financial institutions, while gradually opening up the financial services sector to greater competition. Additionally, continuous efforts are also given to solidify Malaysia’s position as a global leader in

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Islamic finance. Much of the growth in Islamic finance has been attributed to the strong legal and regulatory framework that has been established. Malaysia has the largest Islamic fund management industry in the world, in terms of number of funds, and is recognised as a centre for innovation in the area of Islamic finance. Indeed, with over 40 licensed commercial banks in the country, Malaysia is known for having one of the most regulated banking systems in the world and supervisions are still being increased and improved. The Central Bank of Malaysia (Bank Negara) has the authority to intervene in any bank operations, if good governance is question. Additionally, policies that call for stricter liability and more transparency among corporate officers are in effect.

To benefit businesses, the Financial Services NKEA seeks to enhance the liquidity of Malaysia’s capital market to attract quality stock market listings and investors. This will in turn mobilise capital to fund more business growth and encourage new investments. Malaysia’s capital market has grown to RM2.76 trillion in 2014, which is equivalent to 2.6 times the size of the nation’s economy, and continues to be an important source of financing for the economy. Other significant measures under the ETP include increase liberalisation of the stockbrokerage industry, and integrating the exchange holding company, Bursa Malaysia, with leading exchanges.

Product innovation and developments in the banking and financial sector has significantly benefited both businesses and consumers in the recent years. Furthermore, Malaysia’s overall economic expansion has contributed considerably to the steady growth of the insurance sector in recent years. The long-term transformative goals of the ETP call for 75% of Malaysians to be insured by 2020. This growth is projected to boost the insurance sector’s contributions to Malaysia’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) from 2.8% to 4%.

Access to financial services has also greatly expanded due to the sector taking advantage of technological developments, such as mobile and online banking.

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CHAPTER 17 Charity

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NATIONAL CANCER COUNCIL (MAKNA) Delivering services and support for the cancer cause with passion and commitment MAKNA Mobile Mammogram Unit

The National Cancer Council or MAKNA is a leading Malaysian cancer non-profit organization that has been a pillar to the cancer community and the wider public for over two decades. MAKNA prides itself as a home grown organisation that continues to play an important part helping cancer patients, regardless of background, race, creed, colour and station in financial need, with treatment, financial support and posttreatment issues, besides providing public education and information on cancer. Dato’ Mohd Farid Ariffin is the founder of MAKNA — he who started it all from nothing but only with a burning passion to help financially-challenged cancer patients. He left his Deputy Health Minister post in 1994 to set up MAKNA, after realising through his own personal experience with his son’s struggles with Leukemia, that poor cancer patients would actually find it difficult to afford treatment. 20 years on, MAKNA is still going strong, providing cancer-related services and assistance in various aspects to communities all over the country, without regards to race, gender age and religious beliefs. More than 450,000 patients have received help since MAKNA’s journey started and today, it continues to expand its reaches to many who are still afflicted by cancer.

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MAKNA has been able to sustain its operations and services mainly because of our donors, volunteers and supporters. We will do what’s expected of us to serve the society passionately and invite you to continue playing your part in this endeavour till cancer is no longer a threat and menace to the world. BURSARY ASSISTANCE Under the Bursary Assistance Scheme, cancer patients in the lower income groups who are undergoing treatment with a government hospital can apply to MAKNA for financial aid. As long as the patient is undergoing treatment at any government hospital, he or she can keep applying for assistance once their current assistance ends. AWARENESS AND EDUCATION Spreading the knowledge and understanding of cancer is a priority for MAKNA. Over the years, the education part has grown in importance with the number of cancer patients increasing every year. An average of more than 200 events are held yearly, either on our own or in partnerships with companies, government agencies, universities, schools and others.

MAKNA Founder & President, Dato’ Mohd Farid Ariffin

TREATMENT AT MAKNA CANCER INSTITUTE– UNIVERSITI KEBANGSAAN MALAYSIA MEDICAL CENTRE (IKM-PPUKM) IKM-PPUKM is located in Bandar Tun Razak, Kuala Lumpur and the working relationship between MAKNA and the university hospital was established in 1999 after a memorandum of understanding was signed between the two parties. Today, the cancer institute comprising an oncology ward, a sub-basement radiotherapy unit and stem cell transplant unit has treated more than 160,000 patients and continues to be operated by both parties, with funding from MAKNA. RESEARCH Since 2000, MAKNA has been collaborating with established researchers

Dato’ Farid granting cancer patients ‘wishlist’ at ‘ Wira Kanser’ gathering dinner 2014

MAKNA Cancer Survivours at ‘Wira Kanser’ gathering 2014.

who are mostly based in the local universities and research institutes. These researches are in various stages of completion with some already undergoing the necessary clinical trials. Besides this, another programme that started in 2001, the Cancer Research Award, annually allocates funding for young researchers with proposals on cancer research that are the most promising. These recipients are selected through a process by a panel of prominent scientists assisted by the Academy of Science, Malaysia. MAKNA MOBILE MAMMOGRAM UNIT In 2011, MAKNA’s initiative to provide mobile mammogram services to local communities everywhere in the country became a reality when a customised 40foot trailer complete with a mammogram machine and all necessary supporting equipment was approved and licensed by the Ministry of Health. The objective of this particular service is to reach out to women who may not have access to mammograms due to their locations and affordability reasons. Today, the MAKNA Mobile Mammogram trailer has traversed to various locations and have been well-received by women folks both in urban and rural areas. VOLUNTEERS Volunteers have been a crucial part of MAKNA’s operations which have enabled

the organisation to cast a net wide enough to reach out to cancer patients and communities in all parts of the country. MAKNA’s volunteers are a special breed; their commitment towards the cancer cause is acknowledged by the slogan “A Work of Heart”. There are also current volunteers who are cancer survivours themselves and this group helps other cancer patients by sharing their own experiences struggling with and surviving cancer. If you are interested in becoming a volunteer, please visit www.makna.org.my. HOME VISITS Cancer patients that are receiving assistance under the Bursary Assistance Scheme are visited at their homes by MAKNA Home Visit personnel. Besides checking in on them, these visits serve as an opportunity to evaluate if any further assistance is required by the patients. MAKNA CANCER SUPPORT GROUP It is common for cancer patients to struggle through a host of difficult issues aside from trying to cope with treatments. If there is no proper social and emotional support given to them from family members and friends, they may languish psychologically and physically, and end up being depressed or even worse. MAKNA has a cancer support group on its own and has also established several others in partnership with government hospitals.

MAKNA CANCER HELPLINE (MCH) MCH is managed and handled by oncology-trained personnel who receive calls for information on cancer and also accepts queries by email. The service is aimed at helping callers have a better picture of cancer in general, the types of cancer, their risks, treatments, and other related issues. The helpline’s number is 1-800-88-62562 (MAKNA) and operates from Monday to Friday from 9.00 am to 5.00 pm. HALF WAY HOME Our current half way home is located in Taman Mount Austin, Johor Bahru. It receives cancer patients from afar who are waiting to go for treatment but are unable to travel back and forth easily from their homes to the hospital. YOUR CONTRIBUTION CAN CHANGE LIVES On our part, we will strive to do as much as we can but without your generosity and support, the overall mission in helping poor cancer patients will not have gathered the momentum it has today. A sincere show of kind-heartedness towards fellow human beings in their times of desperation brings such relief and hopefully will spur them on to keep fighting with every ounce of their being. Thank you very much, from MAKNA to you! To make a donation please visit www.makna.org.my or call us 03-21629178.

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WORLD VISION MALAYSIA For Children. For Change. For Life.

Joyce surrounded by children during her visit to Kangayam, India

First steps “When I first decided to become a child sponsor in 2008, it was because I wanted to help children and was looking for ways to do so.”

that they should help others becomes the start of a rewarding journey, as they build a relationship with a child and lift them out of poverty. World Vision Malaysia helps them take that first step.

Joyce Lai, CEO of Educ8 Group Sdn Bhd, the holding company of Epsom College in Malaysia, currently sponsors two children through World Vision Malaysia. Her first sponsored child was Shalini, 14, from Kangayam, India, whom she sponsored from 2008 to 2014. She remembers how she felt on her first trip to visit Shalini:

Making a life-changing difference For many child sponsors, the appeal of sponsorship lies in how RM65 (for an Asian child) or RM80 (for a non-Asian child) a month can make such a big difference. Says Joyce:

“The entire visit was overwhelming and emotional for me… I was really quite amazed at how my contribution was making such a big difference.” For thousands of Malaysians, Joyce’s experience rings true. A nagging feeling

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“If you look at the value of money today, RM65 is not much. What I like about World Vision’s model is that it’s all about sustainability: developing skills and investing in permanent solutions.” Indeed, sustainable community development through child sponsorship is the core of World Vision’s work. This is

rooted in the experience of World Vision founder Dr. Bob Pierce, who was so moved by the plight of a little girl during a visit to China in 1947 that he pledged a monthly amount to a local missionary to support her growth and education. Established in 1997, World Vision Malaysia (WVM) is currently led by Dato’ Ir. K J Abraham as Acting CEO and a Board of Trustees. Together with its corporate partners and child sponsors, it continues to transform the lives of children, families and their communities, helping them break free from the cycle of poverty. While its outlook is on serving the poorest of the poor around the world, WVM is also active at home.

After the devastating 2014 monsoon floods in Malaysia, WVM was, and continues to be, a key player in relief and rehabilitation for affected communities in the east coast. Since 2010 WVM has implemented a community development programme in Mukim Tulid, Sabah.

World Vision Malaysia Berhad (394690-U)

106 & 108 Ground Floor, Block A, Kelana Centre Point, Jalan SS7/19, Kelana Jaya, 47301 Petaling Jaya, Selangor, Malaysia Phone: +603 7880 6414 (please ask for Ms. Yong Ching Sze)

A future filled with hope “I believe we as child sponsors can be the ‘satellite’ that opens up their world to the possibilities beyond their circumstances. We plant hope and dreams in them so they can be inspired to do well in life,” says Joyce.

Email : admin@worldvision.com.my www.worldvision.com.my

As long as Malaysians are willing to open up their hearts like she has, more children can dream of a bright future.

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Branding a Nation, a City and its People We serve as the world’s premier platform for showcasing the best Malaysia has to offer in terms of investment, business, travel and lifestyle to a global audience.

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BEST OF THE WORLD Welcome to the world’s premier platform for showcasing and networking governments, leading companies and entrepreneurs in business, tourism and lifestyle. Through our Best of publishing series and GVPedia.com we showcase an ever expanding Atlas of Success and Sustainability across multiple continents and industries.

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Perpustakaan Negara Malaysia Cataloguing-in-Publication Data ISBN 978-967-13267-4-9 1. Business 2. Investment. I.Title: Best Of Malaysia

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Best of Malaysia