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The Iskandarian ISSUE 43 | MAR 2016
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A new bridge for Kg. Perigi Acheh Highlight
The only connection between the village and the outside world
T
he 50meter bridge of Kampung Perigi Acheh near Pasir Gudang, collapsed in the wee hours of Chinese New Year recently, cutting off 500 villagers from the rest of the world. A replacement bridge has been built by JKR as a temporary solution for the problem faced by the villagers. According to villagers and officials present during the construction works, the replacement bridge is only for pedestrians and motorcyclists. A new bridge worth between RM5 to RM6 million will be built to replace the old bridge once the state government approves of the project. The Chairman of Works, Rural and Regional Development (JKR) Datuk IR Hasni Mohammad visited the site upon hearing the news, with him was state assemblyman Datuk Maulizan Bujang, Director of State Development Datuk Aziz Mohd. Akin as well as several government officers. The Iskandarian managed to visit the village during the construction of the temporary PEGASUS INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL
Gleneagles MEDINI
“In The Arms Of One Who Cares”
The only road into the village is easily submerged due to the weather and changing tides bridge and talked with the villagers and the village chief. According to village chief Saad Awang, he and the rest of the villagers did not expect the bridge to collapse so soon, hoping it would last a little bit longer for the convenience of the residents. He explained that the tide was higher and stronger than usual, coupled with river debris must have caused the bridge to collapse due to the stress affecting the already weakened structure.
New Wings for Regency Specialist Hospital
Executive Chairman of Regency Specialist Hospital, Dr. Gan See Khem (middle), CEO Chin Wei Jia and Singapore General-Consulate Rajpal Singh
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egency Specialist Hospital Bandar Seri Alam is turning six years old and will be upgrading their services to better serve the public. Among the planned improvements includes a face lift, additional hospital wings as well as increased manpower. “This year, we will be building a new extension at the back of the hospital, adding furniture and more medical suites, and install additional patient
beds as well as recruit more professionals and doctors,” said Chief Executive Officer of Regency Specialist Hospital, Chin Wei Jia during its Chinese New Year celebration recently. The new expansion plan will be gazette in March while daily operation continues as normal, in preparation for any emergencies. “We will always be prepared for such unusual cases and keep on track within medical
partners and authorities for the latest updates on the current medical and health issues,” she said. Meanwhile, Regency Specialist Hospital celebrated a festive Chinese New Year ‘Lo Hei’ in its compound area with guests and stakeholders with an attendance of 400 people. The crowd enjoyed the festivities with a lion and dragon dance performance and the appearance of the Monkey King and the ‘God of Fortune’. - by Maressa Esa TI
“The bridge was already broken for months and we have brought this matter to the authorities including the Pasir Gudang Municipal Council (MPPG),” said Saad. According to the village elder, it is the only bridge that crosses the Kopok River and that many factory workers and students would be badly affected if no alternatives are provided. “Most of us are self-
employed but the younger generation work outside and it would be troublesome for them to cross the river without a bridge.” “Ten members of the Tiram zone People’s Volunteer Corps (RELA) will be stationed at the bridge 24 hours a day. This is to make sure that only pedestrians and motorcyclists are using the bridge,” said Saad who added that many of the villagers are fishermen or farmers. He also mentioned that over the years, the river has become polluted resulting in lower catches for the local fishermen. “Look and tell me what you see? It’s a lot of trash, even the water stinks. We don’t get good hauls like in the old days. If we need to fish, we have to travel further out,” said Saad. Another villager who wished to remain anonymous informed that the fallen bridge is not the only problem faced by the villagers. He explained that many of them have to park their vehicles 500 to 800 metres away from the bridge to avoid the rising tide. “When the tide comes in, it would submerge the bridge and most of the road leading to the village. To avoid damaging their vehicles, some of us would park far away and walk back here,” he said, adding that luckily there have been no thefts. - by Amin Khairuddin TI
UEM Sunrise conducts English teachers workshop
A
s many as 30 English language teachers from several schools under UEM Sunrise’s PINTAR foundation were given an English teaching workshop to help improve their skills in aiding students score in their UPSR exams. Held at Sek. Keb Nusantara, Iskandar Puteri, the workshop was conducted by Adibah Md Khalid, an English teacher with 35 years of experience and the chairperson of the English Negotiation board for Johor, who shared her experience as well as insights on how to help
students cultivate their proficiency in the language. With the new UPSR examination format, these teachers were taught tips and tricks to aid them during lessons, especially in grammar, comprehension and creative thinking. They were also taught new teaching tools to enable a more efficient class room during lessons. Adibah believes that any student can learn the language but the method and implementation must be correct in order for it to happen. - by Amin Khairuddin TI
Adibah Md. Khalid and Nurul from UEM Sunrise
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The Iskandarian ISSUE 43 | MAR 2016
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Placemaking Johor Bahru Highlight
Utilising public spaces for harmonious community of Johor Bahru
E
ver heard of “Placemaking”? It’s a term and movement that recruits various sources of skills, knowledge, assets, with the help of local community to define realms, improvise quality and utilisation of public spaces. The Johor Bahru City Council (MBJB) recently organised the ‘Capacity Development: Introduction to Placemaking’ course which aims to regenerate available public spaces, maintaining sustainability around the town for the local development. The two hour course was presented by Cynthia Nikitin, Senior Vice President of “Project for Public Spaces Inc”, working together with Think City, a subsidiary of Khazanah Nasional Berhad that functions as a body for community-based urban
regeneration. “The best of public spacing is self-managing and self-activating when you can bring your family, get some refreshments and food, get accessibilities, and making full use of the spaces available with various activities,” said Cynthia. Throughout the course, it foresees the city council and other related authorities of what Johor Bahru can become when the available public spaces can be utilised, which also creates a branding for businesses around it when the public gathers over for any activities organised. “Great public spaces are used by developers to brand their building as such it creates advantages and enhance tremendous economic, social, community, and health
benefits,” she added. The idea of building up public spaces also comes in clustering form, when amenities like mini public library, food vendors, information centres, and other vendors are allocated in one compound of the area, while the remaining spaces are open for other activities. Aside from making full use of it, the spaces can be envisioned as ‘popup spaces’, a temporary installation of all decorations and amenities so any landscape changes can be integrated easily in future. “ When we are designing places and people, we are getting an equal output to benefit fully for the spaces rather than designing for something else,” she added. - by Maressa Esa TI
Synergy among Hoteliers
T
he Malaysian Associations of Hotels (MAH) Johor Chapter recently elected new committee members with Ivan Teo, General Manager of Ponderosa Golf & Country Resort as its new Chairman. The association’s first inaugural meeting was organised to gather all hoteliers within Johor for a networking session as well as exchanging thoughts in order to generate new ideas for the hospitality business in Johor Bahru. “For the time being, we will bring all the players from the hospitality business together and seeing each other as alliances to help the Government and Johor on what tourists want during their travel here.” “We will be working closely with media partners, upgrading staff trainings, and involve with players from other industries such as telecommunications, legal firms, and more to get broader information regarding the pace of tourism in local area,” said Ivan Teo, Chairman of Malaysian Association of Hotels
(MAH) Johor Chapter. The Chairman is crafting several plans to enhance hospitality and tourism services by getting industry players together to find a n d Ivan Teo discuss issues and problems in order to come up with solutions. MAH will be working closely with the Johor Tourism Association (JTA) as an effort to increase the number of tourists visiting the state, not only international tourists but those from neighboring states as well. The association is planning to upgrade their information service and transportation system for the convenience of tourists during their visit. - by Maressa Esa TI
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The Iskandarian ISSUE 43 | MAR 2016
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Lack of parking spaces in downtown JB Concern
From Cover
Town residents and business owners tells us their daily parking woes
By Hakim Malik editor@theiskandarian.com
D
rive through the streets of downtown Johor Bahru and one thing will stand out most. It’s not the cleanliness, not even the colourful bright lights, but the eyesore of cars parked along the road. Be it in the day or at night, most people that come into the city would face the same problem of finding a parking space for their vehicle. The Iskandarian talked to the locals in the area and discovered the main cause of the problem is the lack of parking spaces in the vicinity. Most of these vehicles are people working in Singapore who travel via public transportation. “Just look at the cars parked in front of my shop, some of them will be here until later in the evening,” said a restaurant operator in Jalan Trus that only wished to be known as Lim. According to him, business is affected when vehicles block his establishment for long periods of time. “Even though we have season parking passes, most of the time we don’t have a space for ourselves, since the car park will be
T
he 2016 Malaysia Higher Education Institutions Games (SUKIPT) ended recently with Universiti Teknologi Mara (UiTM) bringing home the coveted overall champion title with a total of 53 gold, 46 silver and 35 bronze medals. Coming in second and third was Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM) and Universiti Malaya (UM) with a total of 41 and 25 gold medals respectively. Johor Education, Information and Entrepreneur Development Committee chairman, Hj. Md. Jais Sarday officiated the closing ceremony, on behalf of Menteri Besar Johor, Dato’ Mohamed Khaled Nordin, at Dewan Sultan Iskandar, University Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) Skudai. Also present at the ceremony was Deputy Minister of Higher Education, Datuk Mary Yap Kain Ching. “Today, sports is not only deemed as a healthy lifestyle and a
filled with outsiders,” added Noriah, 42, a law firm clerk working in the Foh Chong building. “Most business owners in the area are voicing out their needs for more parking spaces and an improved system,” said Ida Azlina, a surveyor with the JB Baseline Survey that is currently conducted in the city. The surveyors are going around town to collect data and responses that are vital to the rejuvenation of Johor Bahru city in the future. Even visitors going to the Johor Bahru Municipal Council’s office, the Central Post Office and the Johor Bahru High Court have no choice but to park on either side of the road shoulders due to the lack of proper parking lots in the area. “Finding a parking there is a nightmare because most available spots are occupied by office workers around, and none are available for folks coming in for bill payments and postal services.” “Traffic flow can be disrupted too when people start to double park,” complained Izzudin Majid, who visits the post office regularly. Sadly, this is not always the case. Sometimes, road users will resort to illegally parking their cars along road shoulders or any
convenient spot to avoid paying for parking. Under the allocation of Undang-undang Kecil 6 (i)g, Undangundang Kecil Mencegah Kekotoran (MBJB) 2004, those responsible for allowing and/or causing any vehicle to park at undesignated areas can be compounded not more than RM250, caused vehicle in question to be towed or jailed not more than three months. These places include bus stops, in front of or at the back of residential/business premises, on a landscaped green area, public parks and all public places. Commenting on the issue, Mayor A. Rahim Nin was quoted saying that the abandoned Lot 1 shopping complex will be converted into a multi-storey carpark to help ease the pressing issue. For the time being, 300 outdoor parking will be made available for users in the area to utilise. A new streamlined parking system is also being developed to replace the current coupons in Majlis Bandaraya Johor Bahru, Majlis Bandaraya Johor Bahru Tengah and Majlis Perbandaran Kulai which will expire by 1st April 2016 this year. http://www.mbjb.gov.my/web/guest/ tunda TI
Curtain Call for SUKIPT 2016 Interest
A sporting event aimed at promoting the growth of young athletes way to determine victors, but also as a new industry full of potentials to explore.” “Higher education institutes should look at it as a sector to be developed, as I believe we can identify more budding talents among the undergraduates,” said Jais. With more than six thousand athletes joining, it is the foremost breeding ground for future national athletes. This year marks the first year SUKIPT was held outside of the Klang
Valley, seeing participants from neighbouring countries including Indonesia, Laos, Thailand, Myanmar, the Philippines and Singapore. It is also the first time the event opened its doors to several handicapped athletes from all over the country. Chan Jie, 21, of Sunway University and Irene Chong, 26, of University Malaya were crowned sportsman and woman of the tournament. Chan collected four gold and three bronze medals in swimming and setting three new records in the process. Chong won
UiTM emerged as top contingent at SUKIPT 2016 herself four gold, one silver and three bronze medals in swimming as well. Speaking on behalf of the Menteri Besar, Md. Jais added that UTM’s appointment as the host venue will promote the institute and also Johor in general. “I believe SUKIPT 2016 has
left an impact towards the people of Johor, especially students and volunteers that were involved in making the tournament a success. Hopefully, this will further promote UTM and the state to the greater campus community in Malaysia,” he added. - by Hakim Malik TI
Johor Police HQ 07-221 2999 / 07-225 4499
Nusajaya Police IPD 07-511 4222
Tourism Malaysia Hotline 1300 88 5050
Johor Tourism 07-223 4935 / 224 9960
Senai International Airport 07-599 4500
JB South Police IPD 07-2218 999
Ministry of Tourism (Johor) 07-223 3171
Tourism Malaysia Johor 07-222 3590 / 91
Immigration 07-224 4233
Iskandar Regional
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Development Authority (IRDA) 07-233 3000
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The First Festival to Challenge the Elements Benchmark
Demi Johor DUA will go into the record books for the first and largest Fly and Ride event
Highlight
Yayasan Pasir Gudang allocates RM152, 680 for free tuition
F
or the first time ever, Johor will play host to an extreme sports festival in the inaugural Demi Johor DUA (Land, Air & Water) 2016, which will take place in Puteri Harbour on 25th and 27th of March 2016. Among the attractions planned includes 4X4 motorcross, supermotard, gymkhana, hot air balloons, powered paragliders, helicopter rides, jet skis rides, and an array of radio controlled activities. Demi DUA is the brainchild of HRH Tunku Idris Iskandar Ibni Sultan Ibrahim with the cooperation of the State Government, Government agencies and individuals who want to unite the people of Johor with this one of a kind festival. As the Royal Patron of the Festival, the Tunku Temenggong aims for the festival to become a vehicle to promote the state as a preferred tourist destination and hopes the festival will receive a positive response and will become an annual festival in Johor. “The public will experience
Tunku Idris arriving at the Demi Johor DUA press event a wide variety of the elements of land, air and water which includes sporting activities, traditional games, among others, and they will be able to experience them first hand, up close,” said Tunku Idris. “I encourage youngsters to participate in the programmes organised. Demi Johor DUA 2016 is the stepping stone in the development of extreme sports in Johor Daul Takzim,” he added. Also present was Festival
Director Linda Eunos, Youth, Sports, Culture and Heritage Minister Datuk Zulkarnain Kamisan, Tengku Abdillah Tengku Hassan from the Malaysia Sports Aviation Federation, Hanif Borhan from Formula Powerboat and Singapore’s most successful professional racing driver Denis Lian. Tunku Idris added that the festival will be listed in the Malaysian Book of Records for organising the first and largest ‘Fly and Ride’ event. - by Amin Khairuddin TI
Celebrating CNY with Arts
C
hildren from the age of four to six years old overcame their stage fright and did a cheerful performance at the Mall of Medini recently, all to entertain guests and usher in the Year of the Monkey. The students of Castle Kindergarten was invited to take part in the Auspicious Day Teen Arts Festival. “ The Mall of Medini collaborated with Eh He to organise the Art Bazaar, in conjunction with the Teen Art Festival, providing a platform for local artist to showcase their work,” explained Jackie Lee, Mall of Medini representative.
M
ultimedia University (MMU) launched its latest campus recently in Educity, Iskandar Puteri, making it a new addition to its two existing campuses in Cyberjaya and Melaka. The new campus is purposebuilt to offer the university’s Bachelor of Cinematic Arts programme (CAP), a course exclusive to the Faculty of Cinematic Arts. Spread over 45,000 sq. ft. of land, the new campus offers state-of-the-art facilities including a digital media resource centre, post-production laboratories and a shooting stage. “2016 will mark the beginning of Johor’s major step to embark on creative economy, via its Creative Development Blueprint. I would take the opportunity to thank Dean Daley, for USC’s contribution in making MMU
Free Community Tuition for Pasir Gudang kids
Eh He stands for ‘Earth Heart’, a non-profit organisation that champions the arts and culture in Johor Bahru. They believe in the
concept of passing down arts and culture from the older generations to the younger ones, and applies a practical approach to arts. TI
Menteri Besar Johor, Dato’ Khaled Nordin presenting the mock cheques to the Community Tuition Centre representatives
E
ducation is essential to a nation’s development. It is a right no human should be denied of. Yet, last year UNESCO pointed out that more than 59 million children are out of school throughout the globe. A nation’s fiscal deficit, armed conflicts, poverty, inequality and marginalisation are among key factors for the lack of education. Impecuniosity proved to be the main reason that leads to education depravation for school children in Malaysia. In line with that, Pasir Gudang Municipal Council (MPPG) with Pasir Gudang Foundation (YPG) is continuing its initiative to help the less fortunate in the area to receive the education they deserve. “We believe that an ongoing education development programme for the children of Pasir Gudang is crucial in ensuring that they have equal chances to substantially raise their quality of life and hopefully use that as a catalyst in developing socially and economically,” said Menteri Besar Johor, Dato’ Khaled Nordin during the launch ceremony of the
Desa Rakyat Perdana’s Community Tuition centre (PTK). The centre, the fifth to be established in Pasir Gudang, will cater to 25 students from less fortunate families around Desa Rakyat Perdana housing area. “The effort started back in 2009, where we had established the Taman Cendana Community Tuition centre for 75 selected students of the area. All the PTK are managed by MPPG and is free for the people of Pasir Gudang.” “Starting from January, it will cater the needs of candidates facing UPSR, PT3 and SPM this year’” Khaled added. MPPG through YPG allocates RM152, 680.00 annually for the entire PTK scheme. These costs include teachers’ wages, teaching aids and utilities for the whole academic year. The tutors involved are committed school teachers that innovates the classroom. Later, Khaled also presented certificates of excellence to the top students of the PTK scheme who excelled the last UPSR and PT3 examination. - by Hakim Malik TI
Multimedia University Johor officially launched Interest
Dato’ Khaled Nordin officially launching the campus, witnessed by Elizabeth Daley and Tan Sri Sulaiman Mahbob
MMU’s new campus to be the leading film school in Malaysia a premiere film school in Malaysia.” “I am sure that MMU Johor will be a magnet for creativity. A place where people come to make brilliant progress and creative products of global value and distinction,” said Dato’ Khaled Nordin, Menteri Besar Johor at the official launch of the new campus. The campus’s close proximity to Pinewood Iskandar Malaysia
Studios is a crucial factor in producing leading graduates in the industry according to its chairman, Tan Sri Sulaiman Mahbob. “The studio will be the key to turning our students into world class cinematic story tellers.” “With the establishment of MMU campus here, the Iskandar International Education Hub is perfectly poised to make an impact
in the national and regional content creation industry,” Sulaiman added. Also present to witness the launch was Tun Zaki Tun Azmi, Chancellor of MMU; Tan Sri Muhammad Radzi Hj. Mansor, Pro-
Chancellor of MMU; Prof. Dr Ahmad Rafi Mohamed Eshaq, Vice President (Academic) MMU and Elizabeth Daley, Dean of School of Cinematic Arts (SCA), University of Southern California (USC). - by Hakim Malik TI
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Festive Cheers
A
huge crowd gathered at the Seri Austin sales gallery to celebrate Chap Coh Mei and the township’s 1st Smart Healthy City & Communities Township second anniversary. The event showcased a colourful lion and dragon dance performances in addition to the ‘Yee Sang’ tossing. The township was recognised as the first Smart Healthy City and Community Township in Iskandar Malaysia, which was awarded by the Iskandar Regional Development Authority (IRDA). The development also received Johor Bahru Town
Council’s Conductive Living Township Award in 2014. In order to stand apart from other developers, Seri Austin added several smart and healthy features into their townships including free UniFi, a dedicated bicycle lane, as well as incorporating effective microorganisms (EM) into the ecosystem as an effective natural alternative to using harmful chemicals in agricultural practises. The festivities saw the presence of the Monkey King as well as a short fung shui talk from Feng Shui Master Paw as well lucky draws and stilt walking performance. TI
T
enby Schools in Setia Eco Garden celebrated the Lunar New Year with a grand festival recently, with students and staffs all dressed in red traditional Chinese outfits, adding more festive cheer into exciting the atmosphere. Guests were treated with a dragon dance performance by the Nam Wah Kangkar Pulai troupe, who has
performed for the school for two consecutive years. This year’s visit includes a special appearance by the ‘God of Fortune’, who greeted guests all around the school grounds. The multiracial troupe once participated in the 3rd Asian Dragon & Lion Dance Championships 2014 which was held in Jakarta. Tenby Schools consists of Tenby International School and Sekolah Sri Tenby. For
Tenby International, the administration is based on International Primary Curriculum (IPC) which focuses on pupils between age six and seven years old with a comprehensive, thematic, and creative curriculum to make clear of learning goals on each subject. It is then followed by the Cambridge International Examinations (CIE) and the International General Certificate of Secondary Education (IGCSE) curriculum structure for students aged eight and above, similar to other international schools in the country. 475 students have been enrolled since its opening four years ago. Meanwhile, its national school, Sekolah Sri Tenby is based on Malaysian National Curriculum and currently has 42 students. TI
Conserve the Mangrove Forests
H
RH Permaisuri Johor Raja Zarith Sofiah urges Johorians, especially the corporate players to conserve and ensure the sustainability of the 8,000 hectares of mangrove forests in Johor which is showing signs of destruction. “The mangroves not only protect the coast, but it also protects lives on the shoreline, including human beings. Environmental degradation and mangrove forests
will definitely have a negative impact on the balance of the ecosystem, the health and human survival. Therefore, it’s important to take necessary steps to conserve especially for the future generation, said Permaisuri Raja Zarith. Johor has the second largest area of mangrove swamps in the Peninsula. There are six sites of mangrove forests and wetlands in the country listed under the Ramsar, and three of them are in
Johor namely Sungai Pulai Forest Reserve, Tanjung Piai and Pulau Kukup.
Johor to heighten English proficiency level
J
ohorians need to be adept in English in order to keep up with the fast pace of development in the state, especially within the Iskandar region. Menteri Besar Johor Dato’ Khaled Nordin recently addressed the public on this matter after officiating the annual ParentTeacher Association meeting in SK Taman Rinting 2, Pasir Gudang. “With Johor as a leading economic player, Johorians should have a better grasp of English language in order to compete with other thriving countries in the region,” he said.
Interest
New English language teaching module being developed to better equip students in Johor Khaled pointed out that the lack of English speaking abilities would definitely hinder progress and economic growth. Businesses especially in the hospitality and tourism sector would resort to employing English speaking foreigners as front liners in the industry. The state government is
working together with experts from Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) on improving the proficiency of the English language among students in Johor. Both parties are hopeful that the collaboration will bear positive results for the state. “The state is collaborating with UTM to improve English teaching in schools.”
“We want to make English learning more fun and engaging, and not only confined to the classroom,” he added. Khaled also added that academicians are looking into ways to increased participations from students during English lessons. Recently, the Sultan of Johor HRH Sultan Ibrahim ibni
Almarhum Sultan Iskandar voiced out his concerns and pointed out the dire need to embrace the language in order to stay competitive in the current market. The ruler also highlighted the possibilities of utilising English as a medium to nurture racial unity among students in Malaysia. - by Hakim Malik TI
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Monthly Drill Interview By Editor
Dato’ Soo Kai Chee
BIO
Dato’ Soo Kai Chee is a known name in the property circle as a wellarticulated international speaker who bequeaths a philosophical approach when it comes to the property market. Dato’ Soo is currently the Director, Sales & Marketing Division of B&G Property. He graduated from Tunku Abdul Rahman College and has more than 20 years’ experience in the areas of Finance and Accounting as well as Marketing. He plays an active role in marketing B&G Property’s current and upcoming projects such as Kingsley Hills @ Putra Heights, V-Residensi Selayang Heights, V-Residensi 2 @ Shah Alam, and of course, B&G’s first mixed development project in Iskandar Malaysia – d’Pristine @ Medini. He joined B&G in 2004 as an Executive Director and is among the pioneer staff to assist the property development portfolio of the group to where it is today. How did you go from graduating with an accounting qualification in 1988 to joining the property sector? It all started out with an opportunity to explore my newfound interest in the property sector. I thought that it was a very dynamic and interesting field. Little seeds of interest evolved into passion and enthusiasm in the property industry.
d’Pristine aspires to attract the international market, how successful have you been thus far? d’Pristine has been well received in the international market since we launched, and continues to gain interest within the Asia Pacific region especially in countries such as Taiwan, Singapore and Indonesia. Overall, we have seen more overseas purchasers versus Malaysians. These foreign purchasers understand the potential of investing in Medini. It is true that many of them go on the basis of “seeing is believing” and they usually make a trip to Medini before investing. Once they set foot at the site of d’Pristine, and see LEGOLAND Malaysia, Gleneagles Hospital, and the Urban Wellness Centre, they are easily convinced.
Director – Sales & Marketing Div
B&G Property (B&G Global Property Sdn Bhd)
It may sound like a broken record, but location will still be a very important aspect. Of course, location alone is not enough to justify a good investment. You need to look at the infrastructure, the amenities, the demographics of the population, the laws that regulate the property market in the area. Medini for example, possesses all these and more. And due to the special incentives allocated especially for foreign purchasers, foreigners should really take into consideration of this opportunity. Malaysians will not miss out too as there are also special tax incentives given in Medini.
Your thoughts on the State Government’s initiative to have more affordable housing
Of course, we cannot discount the “Singapore factor” when it comes to Iskandar Malaysia. The reason Iskandar is well received on the world stage is partly due to its proximity to Singapore, which naturally, we will see a spill over effect happening.
What potential did you see in Medini to choose it as the area of expansion for B&G? The Federal Government really had a good Masterplan laid out for Medini. When they began developing the area, they did not immediately start with property development. They understood that Medini needed to attract the population first. So they began with the infrastructure and bringing in world class catalyst developments such as LEGOLAND Malaysia, Pinewood Studios, Gleneagles Hospital, Educity, and so on. These created jobs, and encouraged migration into Medini. Only when some of these started to materialise did they move into property development. Of course, there were also many incentives given by the government for developments in Medini. We saw this as a golden opportunity to develop our first project in Johor.
There are a lot of mixed reactions towards Iskandar Malaysia’s property market, especially from Singapore. So, has Iskandar Malaysia lost its appeal or
is it business as usual? It is undeniable that the general sentiments toward Iskandar as a whole have been affected. But I don’t see this issue specific to Iskandar alone. The Malaysian economy in general, is on a downward trend. Overall, foreigners are a little wary about investing in Malaysia for now. The reason Iskandar came in focus amidst this issue is because of how well received it has been in the past two to three years, especially among Singaporeans. That being said, we should not look at Iskandar as a whole. There are certain zones in Iskandar where the fundamentals are strong, and still hold a lot of potential.
Is the property market cooling down? It is difficult to generalise the property market as a whole. I believe property is location centric. There are some areas that may not be so attractive for now, while some continues to show an upbeat response from homebuyers and purchasers. Moreover, there are many kinds of investors who function on different set of principles; some buy houses because they need one to stay in, others invest based on the potential it promises. And then there are also the commercial and industrial property investors.
Can you share some pointers to potential investors?
Affordable housing is necessary for any fast developing nation or city. I believe the state government is doing all it can for the welfare of the society by providing more affordable housing as well as offering financial aid to those who require so they can own their own home.
Tell us more about d’Pristine and the stages of its development d’Pristine is progressing quite well. We have sold about 80% of our SOFO units, and are looking to sell the remaining within the next one year. One great news is that we have recently entered into a Sale & Purchase Agreement with Pelaburan Hartanah Berhad (PHB) where we sold the Grade A office tower to a government agency. We are also in the final stages of discussion with an international brand hotel chain to operate our hotel component and are in talks with a renowned property management team company to manage d’Pristine. I believe these great news will boost investors’ confidence in d’Pristine.
What can we expect from B&G in 2016? Being a developer based in Selangor, we will continue to focus on developments within the Klang Valley. We are looking to launch our new condo project at Kingsley Hills, Putra Heights sometime this year. On top of that, we have upcoming projects in Selayang as well as Bangi. As for d’Pristine, we will continue to focus on the overseas market. I believe d’Pristine will still appeal to the international buyers. TI
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My johor stories
Our resident writer, Peggy Loh, actively writes in her blog www.peggyloh.com about matters that are close to her heart. She can be reached at write2peggyloh@gmail.com
Johor Sultan Graces Johor Chingay
An old map of Johor that outlined the kangchu settlements in the state in the 19th century; Photo credit to the JB Chinese Heritage Museum
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he Johor Sultan, His Royal Highness Sultan Ibrahim Almarhum Sultan Iskandar, made history when he graced this year’s Johor Chingay parade with his presence. When Sultan Ibrahim announced that he would join the rakyat for the Chingay parade this year, the Johor Bahru Tiong Hua Association was abuzz with excitement. Having kept this annual tradition for the Johor Old Temple or Gu Miao since the mid 19th century without interruption except once during the 1942 Japanese invasion, the Johor Sultan’s presence at the Chingay was of great significance to the Johor Chinese. Unlike other Chinese temples that usually bear the deity’s name, the Johor Gu Miao is believed to be the first Chinese temple in Malaysia to be named after a State. The strong relationship between the Johor ruler and the Chinese immigrant
community was the underpinning reason for “Johor” to be part of the temple’s name. To understand this unique relationship, we should look back to 1844 when Temenggong Daeng Ibrahim invited Chinese planters in Singapore and the Riau Islands to open up land in Johor to cultivate pepper and gambier. At that time, gambier plantations were successfully run in Singapore and Riau but after being cultivated for 10 to 15 years, the land was exhausted and infertile. So when Temenggong Ibrahim invited them to move to Johor, the Chinese were ready to relocate. Immigrant Chinese with a strong pioneering spirit were attracted to the prospect of huge tracts of land, just waiting for them to clear for cultivation under the kangchu or River Lord system. Under this administration, planters who arrived in Johor obtained a permit known as, surat
Dragon dance in the Johor Chingay at Jalan Ngee Heng in 1968; Photo credit to Victor Ng
sungai, from the ruler. In the kangchu system, the kangchu or River Master were permit holders who could collect taxes and govern Chinese communities on their land along the rivers. While kang means “river” in Teochew dialect, a kangkar was the disembarking point, usually its middle or upper reaches along the river. Not long after Iskandar Petrie was established in 1855, the Chinese accepted Temenggong Ibrahim’s permits to start plantations here and they arrived by cargocarrying barges or tongkang through the Segget River. The Teochew Ngee Heng kongxi or society, led by Tan Kee Soon was the dominant Chinese clan who made Johor their new home and settled mainly in Kangkar Tebrau. Iskandar Petrie with its capital, Tanjung Puteri, was then a frontier outpost with a few huts near the river, occupied by fishermen and charcoal-makers. Surrounded by jungle and mangrove forests, a flagpole flying the Johor flag near a police post on a hill represented the presence of a government. Besides being confronted by elephants and tigers, immigrants lost their lives to strange diseases and the harsh environment as they braved physical challenges to clear the jungles through the rivers into the interior to open up land for cultivation. Before the invention of chemical dyes, the juice from gambier leaves was widely used for leather tanning and cloth dyeing. The widespread cultivation of pepper and gambier played a vital role to boost the state’s economy, and put Johor on the world map and brought wealth to the local community. With Europe as a major market, Johor became the world’s largest producer of gambier between 1830 and 1850. His son, Temenggong Abu Bakar succeeded Temenggong Ibrahim in 1862 and appointed Tan Hiok Nee, leader of the Ngee Heng society, as Major China of Johor in 1870 as well as Council of State, to look after the Chinese community affairs. A group of Chinese community leaders led by Tan Hiok Nee built the Johor Gu Miao. Dubbed the Temple of Unity, it
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uniquely houses the deities worshipped by the five main dialect groups under one roof. The annual Chingay parade is part of a 3-day religious celebration for the five deities, namely “Zhao Da Yuan Shuai” (Hainanese), “Hua Guang Da Di” (Cantonese), “Gan Tian Da Di” (Hakka), “Hong Xian Da Di” (Hokkien) and “Yuan Tian Shang Di” (Teochew). Generations of Johor Chinese have passed down a legend that the temple was declared opened by Sultan Abu Bakar while he was on a walk with his good friend, Tan Hiok Nee! While the Chingay originated as a religious tradition where the temple deities were taken on an annual “tour” to bless the city with peace and harmony, good weather for cultivation of gambier and to celebrate the plantations’ good harvest, the parade has evolved into a cultural carnival. I have vivid memories of this pulsating parade because it used to pass our grandfather’s house at Jalan Ngee Heng and photos of the 1968 Chingay, captured by our Uncle Victor, are treasured mementoes. This spectacular show is now held on such a grand scale that it is a major tourist attraction with foreign media coverage and even documented by Asian broadcasting channels. In the 2009 Johor Tourism Awards, the Johor Chingay was honoured as the Best Domestic Event and recognised as a National Cultural Heritage in 2012. The warm relationship between the Johor royal family and Chinese in the pioneering era is reflected in two sets of Chinese couplets presented by the Chinese community leaders at the inauguration of the Johor sultanate and preserved in the Chinese Hall of the Sultan Abu Bakar Royal Palace Museum. As a benevolent ruler, Sultan Abu Bakar continued the goodwill started by his father and this special bond was bolstered by the next generations of Johor rulers to this day. The presence of Sultan Ibrahim at the parade marks a major milestone in Johor history as the rakyat witnessed first-hand, the strong relationship of Johor royalty with the Chinese community, rooted in links established by Temenggong Ibrahim. The Sultan’s presence was a shining example of strong race relations and proof of a ruler who truly has a heart for his people. TI
The deities return to the Johor Old Temple at Jalan Trus at the end of the 3-day celebration of the Johor Chingay; Photo credit to JB Tiong Hua Association
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tudents seeking highquality education experience should look no further than EduCity in Iskandar Puteri (formerly known as Nusajaya). Conceptualised as a knowledge and research hub to provide talents to Iskandar Malaysia’s strategic sectors, EduCity
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Quality Higher Learning at EduCity Highlight
University of Reading Malaysia and Raffles University Iskandar offer exciting courses particularly proud of its Bachelor of Fashion Design students. Two of its undergraduates, Ng Kai Chee and Yeo Woan Lian recently created a buzz at the KL Fashion Weekend 2015. RUI’s Fashion Design Programme Coordinator, Jennifer Kong explained that students are trained to do research, draw out ideas, play with garments and communicate with both suppliers and models as part of their training. Enquiries to join this faculty can be made at enquiry@ raffles-university.edu.my Currently there are seven
KL Fashion Weekend. Designed by Yeo Woan Lian. Photo Credits KL Fash
Camouflage Project
Student making some adjustments to her designs
offers multiple disciplines from some of the world’s prestigious universities. University of Reading Malaysia (UoRM) which opened its door in September 2015 offers students the opportunity to obtain a UK degree at a fraction of the cost. UoRM students can spend part of their studies on the University’s main campus in Reading, just outside London, making UK study experience more flexible, accessible and affordable than ever before.
Professor Tony Downes, Provost, said “The University of Reading has been successfully educating international students for more than a century. Malaysian graduates of Reading are already leading businesses and professions across the ASEAN region and the opening of the EduCity campus is designed to bring the best elements of a UK university education to the heart of SouthEast Asia”. January 2016 undergraduate intake in Real
Estate, Quantity Surveying, Business and Management, Finance and Business Management was successfully conducted and Undergraduate programmes in Pharmacy and Law and a range of post graduate programmes, including the Henley MBA, are due to be launched soon. Student enquiries are welcomed at my.enquiry@reading.edu.my Meanwhile, Raffles University Iskandar (RUI) is the only university in EduCity to offer Bachelor’s Degree in Design and
other education institutions in EduCity namely Marlborough College Malaysia (MCM), Newcastle University of Medicine Malaysia (NUMed), University of Southampton Malaysia (USMC), Multimedia University (MMU), Netherlands Maritime Institute of Technology (NMIT), Management Development Institute of Singapore (MDIS) and Raffles American School (RAS). EduCity’s shared facilities include the comprehensive EduCity Sports Complex and Student Village for its 4,000 students.
Fitting Session for Major Project students.
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Government to inject Authentic Language funds for social Learning in activism Legoland Malaysia Interest
English Mania expands southbound
Menteri Besar Johor, Dato’ Mohamed Khaled Nordin during the launch of Pasir Gudang Bicycle Club Association (PPBPG) at Kampung Sungai Rinting
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n conjunction with the rising trend of cycling among the local community, Menteri Besar Johor, Dato’ Khaled Nordin recently launched the Pasir Gudang Bicycle Club Association (PPBPG) in Kampung Sungai Rinting. “The Johor State Government has allocated RM2 million for NGOs who would like to apply for their charitable initiatives which
motivates volunteerism among societies in Johor,” said Khaled during the launch. Khaled also mentioned that activities like this shall be prolonged as it promotes unity, harmonious environment, and develop self-confidence within the multicultural Johorians. “Pasir Gudang City Council will also look upon the concern on building
up a location specifically for bicycle tracks for bicycle enthusiasts for their convenience in future times,” he said. Khaled said that the state government has agreed to fund RM20,000 to the association as the activities here are socially beneficial. PPBPG was formed five years ago and organised three events featuring cyclists from Indonesia. TI
Johor to focus on radical economic growth Highlight
A new direction is needed due to the unfavourable economic conditions
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enteri Besar Johor Dato’ Khaled Nordin said the state will focus on a radical economic growth plan since the current economic landscape is unfavourable at the moment. He explained that the move is possible because the state government does not want to follow in the old ways of economic development, but would like to explore new areas of growth such as the creative industries, green economy, innovation and entrepreneurship. “All this focus on these fields will position Johor as a regional economic power and not just a part of the Malaysian economy.” “It will also give us the inspiration to try alternative economic concepts, backed endowments, grants and charities that will allow the economy to move through the consensus of the community without relying on the government.” “At the same time, it also ensures the preservation and sustainability of the economy thus capable of realising the goals of our economic policies to create
economic harmony,” said Khaled during his keynote speech at the Menteri Besar Johor’s Council Mandate to about 2000 civil servants recently. According to the minister, for the past three years, the state’s economy was performing at an encouraging level, following the successful implementation of policies and strategies that contribute to the growth of its status as the most dynamic economic power after Kuala Lumpur. Khaled noted that last year, Johor recorded a total investment of RM30 billion compared to RM21.2 billion in 2014. The gross domestic product growth (GDP) increased to 6.5 percent at RM93.74 billion. He also said that the state government took the initiative to introduce the idea of a progressive Johor, adding that it is an instrument to create a balance development of a state that is inclusive for all. “It (the idea) is also essential and mandatory because it will determine that the state advances more compared to other states,” said Khaled. - by Amin Khairuddin TI
Mark Germyn, General Manager of Legoland Malaysia handing over a token of appreciation to Datuk P. Kamalanathan , Deputy Minister of Education 1, witnessed by Rozainum Ahmad, Director, Co-curricular and Arts Division, Ministry of Education and Thila Munusamy, Director of Sales and Marketing, LEGOLAND Malaysia By Hakim Malik editor@theiskandarian.com
launch, Kamalanathan added that the allocated period of English classes in schools are insufficient, making it hard to deliver he Deputy Minister of Education 1, good results. “Students need constant exposure Datuk P. Kamalanathan was in Johor to officiate the Ministry’s English to English and the best way for them to do Mania programme in LEGOLAND that, other than in the classroom, is by taking part in activities where English is used as the Malaysia. “Having good communication skills medium of instruction,” he said. The Deputy Minister was also there are important and it can be established by one’s ability to grasp many languages to endorse the theme park’s Science, Technology, Engineering and especially English,” said Maths (STEM) programmes Datuk P. Kamalanathan which aim to enable students at the launch. to explore and further exhibit He expressed his their knowledge in the world gratitude to LEGOLAND of technology. Malaysia Resort for “It’s all about focused their collaboration on learning in STEM followed expanding the English by hands-on, collaborative Mania p ro gra m m e projects,” said Mark Germyn, to Johor, since its G e n e ra l Manager of introduction in 2013 with LEGOLAND Malaysia Resort. Kidzania Kuala Lumpur. “I would like to thank According to the think tank group lead by Datuk P. Kamalanathan, Ms. Norazmah Yunos from these collaborative MoE and Tuan Hj. Kamaruddin efforts are parallel with from Johor State Education the ninth shift of the Depar tment for their Malaysia Education outstanding effort, diligence, Blueprint 2013-2025 commitment and creativity (MEB) which highlights Datuk P. Kamalanathan Deputy Minister of to transform the LEGOLAND the involvement and Education 1 Malaysia Education partnership with parents, Programmes beyond what the community as well as meets the eye,” Mark added. the private sector. He also disclosed that 4 “Through the tasks and activities here, students become more critical and analytical; complimentary Theme Park tickets will thus developing thinking skills which is one be extended to teachers and education of the six Student Aspirations as specified in personnel that registered for the English Mania briefing from 15th February to 31st MEB,” he added. Speaking to the media after the March 2016. TI
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Having good communication skills are important and it can be established by one’s ability to grasp many languages especially English
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Daiman Run 2016 in Kota Tinggi
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or the first time since the devastating floods that hit Kota Tinggi in 2006, Daiman Group will be leading the effort to encourage the public to revisit the town, with the inaugural Daiman Run Kota Tinggi 2016. The Daiman Run @ Kota Tinggi will be a six kilometre run sanctioned by the Johor Amateur Athletics Association, held in association with the Kota Tinggi District Office (DO) and the Kota Tinggi District Council (MDKT). According to Daiman Group Assistant Director, Project Planning Tay Hui Fong said that all proceeds will be donated to the Malaysian Red Crescent Society’s National Community for Community Services. “This is our Corporate Social Responsibility initiative to promote Kota Tingi, which is still being shunned by most people because of the flooding a decade ago,” said Tay. The flag off is at 6.30am, 19th March 2016 and registration closes on the first of March. The route of the run will essentially cover Taman Daiman Jaya, a new township development by Daiman Group, closely located to Kota Tinggi town. “Kota Tinggi has undergone a major transformation since then and is now at the cusp of rapid progress and development. We want people to see the changes taking place and this run is the perfect opportunity to revisit Kota Tinggi again,” added Tay. TI
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Foreign Workers Faces Suspension Highlight
The Government announced that it is suspending the recruitment of all foreign workers and looking at rehiring programme
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he government decided to put all foreign workers recruitment on hold just after it had signed a deal to bring in more Bangladeshi workers into the country, recently. The suspension is believed to enable the government to relook at the levy and rehiring p ro gr a m m e a n d t h e suspension applies to all foreign workers including those from Bangladesh. This measure had to be taken in order to overcome illegal workers from entering
the country and giving an opportunity to hire more local workers. “ The rehiring programme is meant for employers to legalise their foreign workers”, said Dr Ahmad Zahid, Home Minister. “We are registering the workers provided they have employers, so that we are utilising existing illegal workers”, he added. Johor Indian Business Association’s President P Sivakumar said that the Government should provide better incentives and wages
to Malaysians since the suspension of recruitment of all foreign workers. “ The Government should come up with a master plan solution to overcome labour problems”, said Low Kueck Shim, Deputy President of Johor Bahru Chinese Chamber of Commerce and Industy. Menteri Besar Johor, Dato’ Khaled Nordin reminded business owners that they are prohibited from allowing their foreign employees to misuse their licenses to run any trading in the state. TI
Gold Circle Award for Thistle Johor Bahru
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ost of us are familiar with Agoda.com, a service that provides travelers with a mobile platform to search for the best hotel deals. Agoda.com recently awarded Thistle Johor Bahru with a Gold Circle Award. “The award is a symbol of total commitment and passion that the staff of the hotel has given to our business. They always strive for the best and provide our hotel guests with excellent service,” expressed Thistle Johor Bahru General Manager, Rashid Gallyot. Agoda.com awarded the hotel based on customer reviews,
Quick Reads
New JDT Stadium The new stadium being built in Iskandar Puteri, Johor will be completed in 18 months and it would be named as the Sultan Ibrahim Larkin Stadium in honour of the state’s ruler. The RM200 million stadium would be built by Country Garden Pacificview Sdn Bhd, the name behind Forest City. According to Tunku Ismail Sultan Ibrahim, the new stadium will be part of the JDT Sports City and it will also house hotels, apartments, shopping malls, rugby, tennis and futsal facilities. It was also reported that Sultan Ibrahim Ibni Sultan Iskandar will be giving RM50 million to JDT for the building of the new stadium, as he was happy to see football playing an important role in uniting the people of Johor and bringing glory to the state at the international level. The highly-anticipated new stadium will have a maximum capacity of up to 45,000 spectators and ample parking facilities.
Highlight
Agoda.com established Thistle Johor Bahru as best qualities of the online hospitality industry competitiveness of pricing, utilisation of Agoda.com custombuilt Yield Control System and a deep understanding of the complexities of the online booking industry. “We would like to say a special thank you to Agoda. com and our all guests that have booked through this online service,” he added. TI
Staff of Thistle Johor Bahru cheer for Gold Circle Award
Down town JB: A Baseline community survey
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ajlis Bandaraya Johor Bahru (MBJB) is collaborating with Think City Sdn Bhd (a subsidiary of Khazanah Nasional dedicated to community based urban regeneration) to breathe a breath of new life into downtown Johor Bahru. The areas involved include Jalan Ayer Molek, Jalan Bukit Timbalan, Jalan Dato’ Dalam, Jalan Dhoby, Jalan Segget, Jalan Wong Ah Fook, Jalan Bukit Chagar and Jalan Lumba Kuda. The collaboration is an effort to conduct a detailed survey of more than 800 buildings in the area, to seek views of the residents and business for future planning and development programmes. The data gathered will be analysed for the city regeneration
programme which is powered by Khazanah Nasional. Trained surveyors will be interviewing all businesses, households, and government organisations, including non-profit and educational institutions over the few weeks of February and March. Only basic information is to be collected and all data will remain strictly confidential. The sur veyors can be recognised by their uniforms and ID tags. Each survey should not take more than 5 minutes of the respondents’ time. For more information on the survey, go to http://www.thinkcity.com.my
Halal Certificate for Foodstuffs Jabatan Agama Islam Negeri Johor (JAINJ) will work closely with food companies in Japan in order to issue Halal certificates for its foodstuffs in Japan. This would enable JAINJ to not only penetrate into the market there but also other Islamic countries around the world including the Middle East. Menteri Besar Johor Dato’ Mohamed Khaled Nordin said that JAINJ expertise will be utilised in accordance with halal standards and certification procedures recognised in Japan and as agreed by both parties. “This long term venture is timely, especially when Japan becomes the host for the Olympics in 2020 which would have participants and athletes from Islamic countries and they would require Halal food. Moreover, Japan is also a popular tourism destination, attracting a lot of tourists from Islamic countries requiring Halal food”, said Khaled.
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march 2016
rihanna rockets to #1 travel
go local Agro Tourism
A Trip to the Farm
iNSIDE
Rose Osman ta lk about The Pow s er Acknowledgem of ent
+ Ridley Scott’s BLADE RUNNER + Spider-Man
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editor’s M note
arch is a special month for us Johorians as our Sultan of Johor HRH Sultan Ibrahim Ibni Sultan Iskandar had his coronation on 23rd March 2015 and this historical date is now a public holiday and also celebrated as his birthday replacing 22nd November. 18 year-old Alessia Cara who started on You Tube will debut her album “Know It All” this month. Word is she’s equal parts fresh face, old soul, newcomer, and lifer. Having all the potential to go up in the music industry, she’s someone to follow.
On the other hand, Rihanna’s new single “Work” featuring Drake simultaneously hit #1 on itunes in 91 countries. As for you movie buffs: I unfortunately do not have any movie previews this month by our partners but that doesn’t mean there is nothing to look forward to as I have upcoming film updates by Sony Pictures Malaysia. Rose focuses on a new topic this month, read on to get more insight. This time we are venturing to interesting locations in our go local travel column, and Peggy brings us mouth-
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Universal Music Singapore
Alessia Cara’s “Know It All”
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here’s a new breed of pop star seizing hold of the world’s airwaves and online —more accurately, a conscious-pop star who’s set to subversively top charts
and sway hearts and minds. This enigma embodied is 18-year-old Alessia Cara, who’s riding the refrains of her ironic anthem, “Here.” Premiered by The Fader, “Here” garnered over 500,000 total streams in it’s first week, resounding praise for its freshness and insight. Her new debut album, “Know It All” will be released on 11th March 2016. “Here” is unapologetically autobiographical true story,” Alessia confesses. “It’s a party song, but really it’s the complete opposite of a party song. It’s absolutely me; it shouts out the person in the corner of the party, looking around uncomfortably. I feel like this song
narrates what the wallflower is thinking.” Co-written by Sebastian Kole, “Here” manages to be both cheeky and cautionary. It’s authored from the perspective of an unenthusiastic partygoer who’s counting the minutes till it’s time to leave. “Here” takes aim at mindless revelry and is peppered with lines that touch everyone’s hidden introvert: “I’m sorry if I seem uninterested / Or I’m not listenin’, or I’m indifferent / Truly I ain’t got no business here” and “Excuse me if I seem a little unimpressed with this / An antisocial pessimist, but usually I don’t mess with this” and “Really I would rather be at home all by myself / Not in this room with people who don’t even care about my well being.”
Rihanna’s ‘ANTI’ – Rockets to #1 within a week
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ew single “Work” featuring Drake simultaneously hits #1 on itunes in 91 countries, and tops rhythm, urban, and pop radio formats in the US. Westbury Road/Roc Nation/ UMG global superstar Rihanna makes chart history with her brand new album ANTI (released on 28th January 2016), as she achieves her second consecutive #1 album with 166,000 first week sales. ANTI’s lead single “Work” featuring Drake, hit #1 on iTunes in 91 countries less than 36 hours after its release, and was the highest selling digital single. ANTI takes over the #1 spot on the Billboard 200 album chart remarkably, after Rihanna gifted her Navy fans with more than 1 million complimentary downloads (whose redemption codes have now been fully depleted), in conjunction with popular worldwide entertainment platform TIDAL and Samsung. ANTI
also debuted #1 on the Canadian consumption chart. “Work” has become Rihanna’s 27th Top 10 hit on Billboard’s Hot 100, tying her with Mariah Carey, Janet Jackson and Elton John for the fifthmost Top 10s in Hot 100 history. But – Rihanna has attained those 27 Hot 100 Top 10s faster than any of those others (at 10 years and eight months since “Pon de Replay” in summer 2005). Further, only one act in history has reached the 27 Top 10s summit faster than Rihanna: the Beatles. “Work” marks the first time in her career and the first time in memory at Rhythm and Urban radio, she closed out both panels upon impact. At 28 years old, Rihanna is the “Best Selling Digital Artist of All Time with more than 100 million [RIAA] Gold & Platinum song certifications. She also owns both her recording masters and music, and will officially own her music publishing rights as well.
ANTI, Rihanna’s eighth studio album, is the long-awaited follow-up to her RIAA platinum, Grammy Award winning Unapologetic (November 2012), her first album to debut at #1 Soundscan. Unapologetic, which charted on the Billboard 200 for ### consecutive weeks, spun off a slate of major hits, including the RIAA 5x-platinum “Diamonds,” 6x-platinum “Stay” (featuring Mikky Ekko), and double-platinum “Pour It Up,” plus the RIAA gold “Loveeeeeee Song,” “Right Now” (featuring David Guetta), and “What Now.”
watering food options from Cafer Racer by Grillbar. As always, for those wishing to share their fashion collection, travel tales, or like us to review your restaurant/ hotel for a staycation, drop me an e-mail at waves.lifestyle@gmail.com and be featured. For more news, do access www.theiskandarian.com
Priya
The Iskandarian | WAVES Lifestyle
The Power of Acknowledgement – Part 1
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o you know that a simple acknowledgement can change a person’s inner energy? In a relationship and marriage, acknowledgement carries a deeper effect on the integration of energy between two people. With acknowledgement, comes communication. The words we speak towards each other is filled with respect and understanding.
Personal Motivator & Energy Coach yourpersonalmotivator BucketOfRoses
Why Communication without Acknowledgement is Worthless? Most divorce happens due to lack of communication. But communication doesn't happen naturally. Communication only occurs when a person recognises the presence of the other person.
If you’re still unable to relate acknowledgement with communication, try this; have you wondered why people who fall in love, communicates around the clock? In the beginning of the relationship, the attraction of chemistry enhances the sense of acknowledgement between two people. Therefore, wherever you are, you can feel the presence of him/ her, whether physically, emotionally or spiritually. The need to connect rises and communication is the solution. In this stage, acknowledgement is done unconsciously and we do it without awareness. When the chemistry between people dissolves, acknowledgement disappears. You can see this pattern clearly in today's marriage. We have
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no clue why we feel unloved and disconnected with the person we used to love. What we miss is the sense of acknowledgement that gives us the urge to connect. Without it, he or she may be sitting in front of you but in your senses, they disappear. They become the human ghost in your reality. Acknowledgement as a Rule of Thumb The principle of acknowledgement is simple; whatever that we pay attention to, exists and whatever that we’re not aware of its presence, disappears. Take this principle into every relationship we have. When we acknowledge the presence of others, it’s not just the existence of others that becomes alive but our existence becomes alive too.
An Energy Coach and A Personal Motivator. Rose Osman uses her knowledge and intuitive skills in energy to coach people to live a joyful life through her coaching programmes on personal & career growth, relationship, love and health.
MOVIE UPDATES Spider-Man
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MAX Launch Co i n c i d e s w i t h Film’s New Wide Global Debut Date on 7th July 2017. As the movie, which Sony Pictures Entertainment is teaming with Marvel Studios to produce, enters wide release, it will also be digitally re-mastered into the immersive IMAX 3D format. The highly anticipated next installment in the $4 billion franchise, which will star Tom Holland as Peter Parker/Spider-Man, will be directed by Jon Watts and produced by Feige and Amy Pascal. “There’s so much about Spider-Man – including the webslinging action – that lends itself perfectly to
the IMAX screen. We are confident that audiences everywhere around the world will want to see it in IMAX,” said Josh Greenstein, President of Worldwide Marketing and Distribution for Sony Pictures. The IMAX 3D release of the Spider-Man film will be digitally remastered into the image and sound quality of The IMAX Experience with proprietary IMAX DMR (Digital Re-mastering) technology. The crystalclear images, coupled with IMAX’s customised theatre geometry and powerful digital audio, create a unique environment that will make audiences feel as if they are in the movie.
Blade Runner
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ony Pictures Releasing International will distribute Alcon Entertainment’s follow-up to Ridley Scott’s 1982 masterpiece BLADE RUNNER in all overseas territories in all media with Warner Bros. Denis Villeneuve is directing the film starring Ryan Gosling and Harrison Ford who is reprising his role as Rick Deckard. Hampton Fancher (cowriter of the original) and Michael Green have written the original screenplay based on an idea by Fancher and Ridley Scott. The story takes place several decades after the conclusion of the 1982 original. Alcon Entertainment acquired the film, television and ancillary franchise
rights to BLADE RUNNER in 2011 from the late producer Bud Yorkin and Cynthia Sikes Yorkin to produce prequels and sequels to the iconic science-fiction thriller. Cynthia Sikes Yorkin will produce along with Johnson and Kosove. Bud Yorkin will receive producer credit. Frank Giustra and Tim Gamble, CEO’s of Thunderbird Films, will serve as executive producers. Ridley Scott will also executive produce. The film marks V i l l e n u e v e’s third collaboration with 13-time Oscar nominee Roger Deakins, who will serve as cinematographer, following Alcon’s Prisoners and the hit drug-trafficking drama Sicario, which brought Deakins his latest Oscar nomination.
Source: Sony Pictures Malaysia
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The Iskandarian | WAVES Lifestyle
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go local AGRO TOURISM
A Trip to the Farm – Part One
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Rail ride to Kluang Rail Station By Harish Mustak waves.lifestyle@gmail.com
aking a short break from hotel staycation, we embarked on a new branch of tourism called Agro-Tourism. Agro-Tourism is fast developing in Johor which brings tourists to farms, orchards, and small home-grown industries to witness the local agriculture and businesses.
Pit stop at the infamous Kluang Rail Coffee
Quite recently, Tourism Malaysia Johor invited The Iskandarian and a group of tourist guides along with relevant industry players on an agro-tourism trip at a couple of districts in Johor. The main objective of this trip was to bring tourism agencies to new and upgraded locations. It is also to update current tourism packages offered by the tourist agents, giving people more options of travel destinations. The three days two nights getaway was unlike any other tourism experience. To compare, the usual points of interests for tourists would naturally be beaches, waterfalls, rivers, hills, heritage areas, malls and theme parks whereas these agro-tourism spots brings tourists to farms, orchards and to small home-grown industries. Tourists will have a chance to witness local products and businesses whether big or small. Day One – Kluang, Johor Starting on the first day, the group of tourist guides and media were called to assemble at
the Johor Bahru Central Station early in the morning. Tourism Malaysia Johor personnel arranged everything and greeted us at the station. Everyone boarded the train and the next stop was to Kluang Rail Station. After a 2 hour train ride to the district of Kluang, we disembarked the train and was
At the quail farm of Usha Maju Enterprise greeted by the District Council of Kluang headed by the District Officer, Tuan Haji Muhamad Fuad bin Haji Radzuan. Everyone was treated to a nice hot cup of Kluang famous rail coffee and kaya butter toast. We continued on a chartered bus to the next location, a local small industry called Wak Tunot Enterprise. This enterprise runs a small and manual biscuit and chip production line. The group was then brought to the next location where lunch was served at Mastor Terompah. Mastor Terompah Makers are seasoned men who hand-stich hats, belts and other items from raw-hide leather. Other products include the terompah which are classic local wooden slippers. We were then brought on a detour to a medium-sized industry in Simpang Renggam which bred quails. The farm is a complete industry by itself right from the eggs hatching to packaging of the quail meat, which is managed by Usha Maju Enterprise. To be continued…
Raw-hide leather products at Mastor Terompah
Calendar of Events Spore, 1st March 2016 Escape Room S’pore @Orchard Link, S’pore
JB, 4th - 6th March 2016 Today’s Baby Expo @Danga City Mall
JB, 5th March 2016 Johor Expat Social Mingle @The Harbour Front, Puteri Harbour
JB, 6th March 2016 Blood Donation Campaign @ Leisure Mall
Spore, 12th March 2016 Kids Fiesta 2016 @The Float Marina Bay, S’pore
Spore, 12th March 2016 The BIG Kids World Workshop @ Big Box S’pore
Spore, 17th - 20th March 2016 Savour Food Festival @Savour S’pore
JB, 19th - 20th March 2016 Education Fair JB @Persada Johor
Spore, 19th March 2016 kaLIFEdoscope Obstacle Run @ Pasir Ris Park, S’pore
JB, 22nd March 2016 GST Talk @Renaissance Johor Bahru Hotel
JB, 23rd March 2016 HRH Sultan of Johor’s Birthday
JB, 25th - 27th March 2016 Demi Johor Dua 2016 @ Kota Iskandar
Spore, 25th Mac - 8th May 2016 Fashion Steps Out @Orchard Rd S’pore
JB, 31st Mac - 2nd Apr 2016 ArcBuild Exhibition @Danga City Mall
JB, 24th - 26th March 2016 3P Expo @Danga City Mall
Block your dates for this month! If you need more information on the above mentioned events, drop us an email at: waves.lifestyle@gmail.com
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I own you so I own your money! Financial Bully in Marriages - Part Two
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inancial bully is part of domestic violence that can put many women into extreme debts. A report by the Citizens Advice Bureau of UK stated that nine out of ten victims of financial abuse are women and the common perpetrators were the ex-husbands or boyfriends. A study conducted by the same bureau shows that a large number of women are forced to take loans for their partners. Sofia was married to an ex-lawyer who was starting his own law firm. Being a chemical engineer who generates more income, she applied for a bank loan of RM100,000 to assist her then husband. However, the firm didn’t last long. Sofia later filed for divorce when she discovered his affair but continued to make monthly payment to settle the loan since it was under her name. Life was easy for her ex-husband as now he has 4 wives but made no commitment
to assist in the loan settlement. When asked if she was taking legal action on him, she answered “What good it would do?” Another case is Abby who was married for 4 years. Both of them had good careers however, once he experienced a hiccup with his housing loan and she quickly applied for a bank loan of RM20,000 to help him. Both of them are now separated after a domestic violence and she was chased out of the house. Abby is currently fighting for divorce and custody of her 2 children. These 2 women may have different stories but they share the same burden after their separation. In the eyes of the public, they might be called foolish. But their hearts were pure with the intention of helping their husbands without predicting the dark future ahead. The subject of lending money to spouse or boyfriend may be controversial. Classically, men should provide and women rely on them financially. Having wives with stable careers become handy to men with unstable jobs. Based on promises on brighter future together, these women agree on helping the husbands. If a woman chooses to take loan for
her partner, she must take precautions to protect herself. Sofia and Abby are examples of women with kindness that was not valued. First step is by demanding the reason for taking a loan which must be vital and potentially beneficial to both parties. The most common reason for loan is starting a business. Next is to draw a contract between the couple. Again, this might be controversial because it seems like the trust between the husband and wife is being questioned. A contract between the couple should contain every single information regarding the loan which includes the amount, years of agreement, what happens when the partner fails to make payments and what the woman gets in lieu of payment e.g. car, land. Make the contract legalised with the presence of a witness. Once the loan is approved, be sure that there are evidence of transactions into his account e.g. by online banking. Avoid giving cash by hand. Keep any SMS that states his respond to the transactions. Any communication via email or SMS regarding the loan can be kept as evidence of informal contract between the couple. What if after the woman takes up the loan and the husband became irresponsible? Without formal agreement between the couple, there is still a slim chance to recover the money though a bit tricky. According to Roshdan Sujak bin Rafie a well known lawyer among local celebrities, the wife can only claim from the husband to make
Dr. Haliza Zurah Dr. Haliza Zurah is a medical doctor of 8 years of experience hopes to assist the working mothers to balance work, life and emotion. As a representative of JEIWA (Johor Empowerment of Intellectual Women Association), she will cover crucial issues involving working mothers and matters relating to women’s rights, education and more. payments to her based on the loan agreed. The loan between her and the bank remains as her own responsibility. Therefore, she must provide adequate evidences to prove that the loan was made for her husband. Once she wins the case but he fails to make payments into her account, she can apply for salary deduction based on the court order. Financial abuse is common and more pronounced among professional women. It causes non visible damages to the victims. JEIWA is aware of this fact and has been assisting many women by giving legal advices and emotional support. To women who feel they are being abused financially, you may contact the JEIWA hotline at 0167022762 or email at welfare@jeiwa.org. Don’t be a victim of financial abuse. Men should learn to love and respect women and not use marriage for own financial security. TI
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Abortion in Malaysia: The battle between women’s rights and conscience of a doctor
Cerebral Palsy patients celebrate CNY with The Princess
A woman walked in to my clinic after discovering herself pregnant and she said “Doctor, I am pregnant but I am not ready to have this baby. I want an abortion! Can you do it for me?”
The Abortion Law Abortion is considered a taboo subject in Malaysia even though it is a commonly encountered problem. According to a survey done by the National Population and Family Development Board, statistical estimation, in 2012, showed that more than 90,000 abortions were done annually, and the majority was done in “ill-equipped, unsafe environment”. As a general rule, abortion is illegal in Malaysia and both parties; the mother and the healthcare provider providing the service can be charged according to Malaysian
Penal Code section 312-315. Exceptions is however granted based on medical consideration, “….where a Registered Doctor informed in good faith, that the continuance of the pregnancy would involve risk to the life of the pregnant woman, or injury to the mental or physical health of the pregnant woman, greater than if the pregnancy were terminated”. (The Penal Code (Amendment) Act 1989 (Act 727). Apart from this cause, it remains illegal. Although termination of pregnancy is permitted, the law is nevertheless limited. Under the
Penal Code Act 1989, it is the doctor alone who makes the decision as to whether a termination should be carried out based on his assessment that “continuation of the pregnancy would endanger the mother’s life and her mental health”. Therefore, legally speaking, the woman’s wishes and her rights to her own body alone holds no legal ground for her to choose to have an abortion done. Under the Code of Medical Ethics, Malaysian Medical Council (MMC), abortion done for nonmedical reasons by a Registered Doctor is a serious infamous conduct and if proved to the satisfaction of the Council, the Practitioner is liable to disciplinary action. Written by: Dr Sharifah Halimah Jaafar M.D, M.Med O&G, AM (Mal), Consultant Obstetrician & Gynaecologist at Regency Specialist Hospital.Women’s Health Activist & Advisor to Johor Empowerment of Intellectual Women Association (JEIWA), Founder & Advisor to Perak Women for Women Society (PWW), a coalition member of Joint Action Group (JAG) and Member of Soroptimist International Ipoh. TI
HRH Tunku Tun Aminah handing our red packets
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s much as 500 guests, including 110 cerebral palsy survivors celebrated the Cerebral Palsy Association of Johor’s (CPAJ) Chinese New Year Celebration with guest of honour, HRH Tunku Tun Aminah Maimunah Iskandariah. A lion dance performance by the students of Foon Yew High School, Stulang Laut, greeted the princess. A 24 drum performance followed by a Diablo performance by the Foon Yew students entertained the guests before the elegant Wushu exhibition performed by Sunway University College students. Tunku Aminah joined guests from several other charities and private institutions for ‘yee sang’ before handing out ang pow packets to the students and goodie bags to the children with cerebral palsy as well as the pupils of the association.
Chairman of CPAJ Tunku Yan Nazihah Tunku Laxamana Nasir thanked sponsors, donors and Tunku Aminah for coming and showing their support for CPAJ, adding that the gathering aims to foster multiracial relations among the children and adults alike. Since 1967, the CPAJ has been aiding the needs of children with cerebral palsy. The group manages a special education school, rehabilitation department and a sheltered workshop. The school currently has 62 pupils and 48 workshop volunteers. Principal for the Special Education School for Cerebral Palsy Johor, Kanan Muniandy explained that cerebral palsy patients aged 5 till 18 will attend classes here while those above 18 will undergo workshop learning sessions to gain skills such as making handicrafts to earn a living.
JARO staff and volunteers enjoy the New Year Festivities
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he staff and volunteers o f th e Jo h or Area Rehabilitation Organisation ( JARO) recently enjoyed a Chinese New Year lunch at New York Hotel JB, where 130 guests including the Chairman of JARO, Datuk Jimmy Low, 60 as well as members of the Chinese Tiong Hua association joined in. “JARO has been able to train and provide employment for the disabled for 64 years through the support of donors and sponsors,” said Low. He voiced out that large
Celebration
JARO recently celebrated Chinese New Year with its staff, volunteers and close friends enterprises should hire at least 1 to 2 % disabled into their workforce, adding that JARO itself has 56 disabled staff members. Low thanked the five Chinese clan associations of JB for their generous donations. A total of RM25,000 have been raised through
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various events and community donations. JARO operates day to day via public donations and government funding. Anybody who is interested in making a tax-exempt donation may visit the centre or email jarokraf@hotmail.com- by John Chee
Chairman of JARO Datuk Jimmy Low handing out ang pows to the disabled
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Accumulating Wealth Adam’s Financial Journey Tips & Tricks
In the Adam Series, we explain how financial planning is being applied in our day to day life as we journey through different stages and challenges
When the Going gets Tough
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The First Home – Part One
any people expected a rally right after the Chinese New Year; however, the market behaved the opposite. First, the oil price has fallen below USD27 per barrel, followed by the stock indexes in Europe, such as DAX (Germany), CAC40 (France), FTSE100 (UK) breaking the low since August last year. To make things worse, the Federal Reserve Bank of the US has opened the possibility of moving policy rates into negative territory, implying the US economy might not be as good as thought. Locally, compared to a month ago, the KLCI Composite Index shows slight improvement of up by 11 points or a mere 0.7% from 1633 to 1644 as at 12th February 2016. However, this doesn’t mean that all sectors performed at the same level. We’ve noticed furniture stocks have plunged rapidly and intensely.
peak. Technically, at least three of them have just broken the MA200, which is a strong critical support. Clearly, based on technical analysis, it’s a ‘sell’ signal for the furniture counters. The question is, when the fundamental is not in sync with the technical analysis, what do we do?
Is it game over for furniture stocks? The answer is yes and no. There’s a perception that furniture stocks are closely linked to the strength of the USD. The market perceives strong USD would lead to better earnings. While this is true to a certain extent, it’s the continuous demand of the product which makes profit sustainable. Even if you base the company’s revenue solely based on the USD against the Ringgit: In 2015 it was trending from 3.62, 3.66, 4.05 and 4.29 for quarter 1, 2, 3 & 4, respectively. Many export-oriented furniture companies’ earnings were pretty decent since Q1. For example, the earning per share (EPS) of Latitude since Q1 to Q3 are RM0.2, RM0.17 and RM0.29, respectively. That’s an average of 22 cents per quarter or an annualised 88 cents for a year. Based on
Protect capital by selling Hevea and Pohuat-wb Considering the above reality coupled with the strategy to protect our capital (price of Hevea and Pohuat-wb have fallen to our cost, where entry price of Hevea and Pohuat-wb are 1.42 and 0.86 respectively), we’ve decided to sell all 23000 shares of Hevea at 1.32 and 15000 shares of Pohuat-wb at 0.91 on 2nd February 2016. This has translated into a loss of RM2300 by Hevea and a gain of RM750 by Pohuat-wb. With the selling of these two counters, our cash level has increased to RM109k. Our total gain is now 9.3% since the inception of the portfolio in November last year. As of now, we’d rather be defensive and only hold five counters. Here’s our portfolio as at 12th February 2016:
Tey Bin Yuen Binyuen is the founder of BY Enrich Resources and the author of ‘Life beyond the Comfort Zone’. He’ll be conducting a mini workshop ‘Gain Financial Security through Share Investment’ on 4th March 2016. Collect this article to exchange a ticket worth RM20 for FREE. Reach his team at contact@teybinyuen.com
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dam and Aida just got back from their honeymoon and for now, they will be staying over at Adam’s parents’ place but eventually they would like to move to a place of their own. In this issue, we will be looking at how Adam and Aida manage their finances as a couple and specifically, on the issue of home ownership. After unpacking their luggage, Adam and Aida were very anxious to show the pictures taken during their honeymoon in Bali to their family members. They bought gifts for everyone too but it was all spent well within budget. They had such a good time and had hoped that it’ll never end but now, it’s time for them to start their lives as husband and wife and it will certainly take some adjustments when the two becomes one. As money is a sensitive topic, many couples in a relationship tend to keep money out of their discussion. Ironically, when they do talk about money, they don’t just talk – they argue! Therefore, it is extremely important that we have heart-to-heart talks on our expectations so that we may be able to see eye-to-eye on money matters. Below are some pointers for all newlyweds to consider: • Your financial plan has to move from being an individual to a shared one involving your spouse. • Decide on how to handle routine bills, paying for the family and children’s wellbeing, household budgeting, as well as allocating for savings and investments. • It may be wise to have at least three bank
Disclaimer: The companies mentioned above and in this article are meant for study purpose only. It doesn’t constitute any ‘buy’ or ‘sell’ recommendation. Please consult your financial professional if you want to make any decision
the current share price of RM6.34, its PE ratio is 6.34/0.88, which is a mere 7.2. This is way below the benchmark of PE 12-15. Based on the above fundamental analysis, the furniture stocks’ valuation is still considered very attractive. But let’s look at the reality. If you make a summary of share price performance for furniture stocks, you’d see almost all of them have on average fallen 30% from their
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Conclusion As the saying goes ‘when the going gets tough, the toughs get going.’ But in order to get going, we need have good strength and armed with capital. That leads me to the conclusion by sharing my favourite quote from Warren Buffet: “Rule No. 1 is Capital Preservation, Rule No. 2, please refer to rule No.1”. TI
* Image is for illustration only
accounts – “My Account”, “Your Account” and “Our Account”. This would enable each spouse to have some autonomy over their own finances whilst at the same time are able to meet common expenses from their shared account. • Just as in the case of your individual financial plan, as a couple , you also need to keep aside an emergency fund to take care of those unexpected expenses that can happen to you, your spouse and family. • Talk about each other’s investment style, including your respective risk appetite and preferences. It is wise to have a common investment portfolio to meet future financial goals, such as retiring together and living a comfortable life. These investments are also used to pay for your children’s living and education expenses. • You may need to review your insurance coverage as well, especially if one of the spouses is not working or if there are children coming along the way. With dependence, we will most likely need to increase our coverage in the event something unfortunate befalls the breadwinner of the family. After having considered the above points, Adam and Aida decided to draw up their joint family budget and worked out a healthy surplus of RM3,000 per month arising from their contentment to own only one car and temporarily stay with Adam’s parents. They were really able to save quite a lot which succumbed to a lot of financial discipline. TI To be continued…
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Malaysia Year in Review 2015 By:
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he Malaysian economy continued to expand throughout 2015, shaking off falling commodity prices, weaker growth in China and a sharp depreciation of the local currency. The economy expanded by around 4.7% in 2015, down from 6% in 2014, but still ahead of the global average of 3.1%. While growth eased somewhat compared to the previous year, forecasts indicate further near-term gains. GDP growth is expected to decline marginally to 4.5% before rebounding to 5% per annum through to 2020, according to IMF estimates. Exports remain solid Despite weakening global trade conditions, exports rose by 1.9% to RM711.7bn ($166.8bn), while imports remained fairly steady at RM625.3bn ($146.6bn). Total trade was up 1.1% over the period at RM1.34trn ($314.1bn), fuelled by stronger flows to China, the US, ASEAN, the EU, Turkey and India, according to the Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (MATRADE). Manufactured goods accounted for the bulk of exports and the majority of growth in 2015, averaging around RM50bn ($11.7bn) per month through November, as per MATRADE data. Resurgent demand from recovering markets like the US could help Malaysia gain further trade momentum in 2016, supported by the added export competitiveness of a weaker ringgit, which lost 18.6% of its value against the US dollar in 2015. Price considerations The consumer price index (CPI) remained relatively steady throughout 2015 despite concerns of GST and a rollback of some subsidies. As of December 2015, the CPI was up 2.7% y-o-y, compared to 3.2% in 2014. However, lower fuel costs may have obscured inflation in certain categories. According to local media reports, the costs of public transportation, natural gas and tolls on several highways have increased, while higher cigarette taxes also impacted the CPI in November 2015. Price increases could accelerate into 2016 if the government moves to cut subsidies further or increase
government revenues through new or expanded taxes. The weakening of the ringgit could also drive inflation through higher import costs, with further depreciation possible in 2016, particularly if oil prices continue to decline. Mixed signals Despite ending 2015 in the red, Bursa Malaysia outperformed many of its peers in the region, with Singapore’s Strait Times Index, Indonesia’s Jakarta Stock Exchange Composite Index and the Bangkok Stock Exchange of Thailand Index all posting double-digit losses. The worst-performing sectoral index in Malaysia was the KLCI Finance index, which shed 9.8% over the 12 months as bank earnings felt the impact of weak loan growth and tighter margins. Fiscal funding With oil prices expected to remain subdued for much of the coming year and energy earnings accounting for around 22% of government revenue, the 2016 budget, first presented in October 2015, has come under further pressure in the intervening months. Initial budget estimates for 2016 were based on an oil price of $48 per barrel, but with Brent futures dipping below $30 in mid-January, Malaysia’s spending gap was expected to widen further, potentially prompting the government to tap international markets to help bridge the fiscal deficit, forecast at around 3.1% of GDP. As a result, the government has moved to scale back planned spending, with a revised budget announced on 28th January 2016. The new budget, which promises a mix of social support and tax restructuring, will save the government a reported RM9bn ($2.1bn), according to local media. Importantly, the revisions are based on lower baseline oil prices, of between $30 and $35 per barrel, which is more in step with current pricing. Mohd Afzanizam Abdul Rashid, chief economist at Bank Islam Malaysia, described the recalibrated budget as “realistic”. “We know that the government is constrained by the fall in revenue due to oil prices and the fact that it continues to adhere to its fiscal consolidation plans,” he said. Early indications suggest markets were similarly receptive to the proposed spending changes, with the FTSE Bursa Malaysia KLCI finishing the day up 3% after the announcement.
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Real Food at Café Racer 72, Jalan Pingai, Taman Pelangi, JB Open daily from 12pm to 12am Tel: 07 – 335 0000
Our resident writer Peggy Loh goes scouting for scrumptious food all over Johor Bahru. Reach her for a review at write2peggyloh@gmail.com Gary is constantly innovating and creating new recipes to please discerning diners who are seeking new dining experiences. So you’re assured of quality ingredients in a menu of real food that truly satisfies. While the menu was updated, favourites like “Sloppy Nachos Munchos” and “Onion Blossoms” remain. Start your meal with “Rock & Roll Shrimp Burrito” made with a tasty tortilla rolled with egg
Rock & Roll Shrimp Burrito [Front] and Taco Salmon Caesar Salad [Top]
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nce in a while, you come across a café and its cuisine that’s as interesting as its chef. The success of the Grill Bar Steakhouse not only earned Chef Gary “Ozzy” Hong a reputation as a chef who is committed to consistent food quality and service, but also many fans of his food. Gary - a chef with a bike-riding hobby – ventured on to plan the menu and design the décor for Café Racer. So don’t be alarmed to see vintage bikes and scooters parked inside because it’s part of the décor!
Iron Butt Cheese Burger in own-made bagel with a choice of bagels in all-natural flavours like [Left to Right] Charcoal & Blueberry, Spinach, Peas and Parsley and the Dragon fruit & Rosemary bagel, packed with layers of food!
Façade of Café Racer with its distinct logo at Jalan Pingai, Taman Pelangi and cheese, topped with a whole prawns, coated with green-pea batter. Or savour delicious “Taco Salmon Caesar Salad” in a giant taco filled with peppery tasting rocket or arugula salad and slices of smoked salmon. Their “Route 66 Devil Wings” are chicken wings that may be served hotter to your taste, in a bowl lined with paper that appears to be signed by the heat! “We bake our own bagels and you may be served different flavours, depending on the ingredients available that day,” said Gary about their range of freshly-baked bagels like charcoal and blueberry bagel, spinach, peas and parsley bagel and dragon fruit and rosemary bagel. “Iron Butt Cheese Burger”, made with 240gm ground beef patty, is layered with a fried egg, tomato, arugula, caramelised onions and cheese slice. Other popular choices include “Good ‘Ole Fish & Chips” made with fillet of Pacific Dory coated in green pea batter while the “Racer Beef Stew” is full of tender chunks of
Chef Gary Hong presenting his tasty Grandmama’s Lamb Pie topped with a ring of potato and green pea mash, with a side of sautéed mushrooms and greens juicy meat. Another favourite is “Grand-mama’s Lamb Pie” stuffed with chunks of meat and topped with potato and green pea mash. Don’t miss interesting dessert choices like “Sizzling Brownie” served in a heated cast iron pan and the “Raisin & Banana Waffle” with a side of ice-cream. Also the contrasting flavours of hot Lava with cool ice-cream keeps the “Chocolate Lava” a firm favourite. Please note that Café Racer does not use any pork products in their kitchen. TI
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Monsoon Cup 2016 Highlight
The legacy of Tengku Laksmana
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By Amin Khairuddin editor@theiskandarian.com
uteri Harbour played host to the 2016 Monsoon Cup, bringing a week of high adrenaline match racing to the waters of Iskandar Puteri. It was a close race between finalists Taylor Canfield of the Virgin Island and Ian Williams of Great Britain, with the latter retaining the Monsoon Cup after Williams’ GA Pindar team defeating Canfield’s USA One 3-0. This marks Williams’ fourth win in the Monsoon Cup tour, becoming the World Match Racing Tour (WMRT) 2015/16 champion for a record sixth time. In third place was Sweden’s Bjorn Hansen and his team Nautiska Racing, who went up against Switzerland’s Eric Monnin and Team Sailbox with a 2-0 victory in the petit final. Canfield and Hansen came in second and third in the WMRT standings. The prize giving ceremony was
officiated by HRH the Sultan of Johor Sultan Ibrahim Sultan Iskandar, also present was the Permaisuri of Johor, Raja Zarith Soffiah Sultan Idris Shah, the Tunku Mahkota of Johor Tunku Ismail Sultan Ibrahim, Youth and Sports Minister Khairy Jamaluddin and Johor State Assembly Speaker Tan Sri Mohamad Aziz. Almarhum Tengku Laksamana Johor Tunku Abdul Jalil Sultan Ibrahim left his legacy with the Tengku Laksmana Trophy and his vision to promote the sport in this region of the world. The late prince was instrumental in nurturing the sport in the country and launched the Belia Belayar sailing programme and the Malaysian Sailing League (LLM). Many youths were lucky to experience match racing through these programmes which are supported by the Malaysian Yachting Association (MYA) and the Youth and Sports Ministry. Among the event highlights includes the achievement of Malaysian skipper Hazwan Hazim Dermawan of
Two teams battle it out in the waters of Iskandar Puteri
The Tengku Laksamana Johor Cup, a legacy left behind by the late Tungku Abdul Jalil Sultan Iskandar HazOne Racing Team, who won against Keith Swinton from Black Swan Racing. This marks the first time a local team to score a point since Malaysia began hosting the Monsoon Cup 11 years ago. According to the skipper, although the team started the race with a minor delay, they managed to catch the wind
and chase the seasoned Australian skipper Swinton to end the race with a 16 second lead. Youth and Sports Minister Khairy Jamaludin mentioned that the Monsoon Cup is an event that all sailing enthusiast look forward to every year and has brought much attention to Malaysia.
The winners of the 2016 Monsoon Cup with World Match Racing Tour (WMRT) executive director James Pleasance, HRH Sultan Ibrahim Sultan Iskandar, Youth and Sports Minister Khairy Jamaludin and Youth, Sports, Culture and Heritage Minister Datuk Zulkarnain Kamisan
45 dishes at RM45
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ancy a huge selection of local delicacies for hi-tea? Well you’re in luck because Thistle Johor Bahru is currently offering a mix of 45 local dishes and snacks in their ‘Selera Warisan Buffet High-Tea’ package, for just RM45. For starters, guest can indulge the hotel’s signature dishes range including Laksa Johor, Nasi Impit with Kuah Lontong, Kuah Kacang, Sambal and Serunding, Harissa, and Kacang Pol. “Aimed to introduce locals and guests with classic evergreen Malay flavours and culture, the promotion also offers the public to enjoy a long list of delicacies at an affordable price,” said Thistle Executive Chef,
Huzaidy Samson. Those in favour for something savory can opt for Sesame Seed Chicken Wings, Pepper Prawns with Garlic and Oats, Spice Fried Mussels, Mamak Style Fried Noodles, Lamb Kuzi, and Spicy Honey Roasted Chicken. The dessert spread is equally tantalising with a selection of local and western desserts including Serawa Durian, assorted kuih-muih, fruit tartlets, Ice Kacang and many more. The Selera Warisan Buffet High-Tea will be available from 2.00pm to 5.00pm on every Friday and Saturday at the Glass Restaurant for only RM45. - by Maressa Esa
Thistle Executive Chef Huzaidy with signature Malay dish, Kacang Pol
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Cover: Medini Iskandar Malaysia All eyes on Medini as the next Business Destination of South East Asia pg 29 & 30
Propernomy by Dr. Daniele Gambero: Housing the Nation: Is it happening?
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On road to smart city Medini
Quick Reads
Highlight
Medini Iskandar Malaysia to become central business district (CBD) of Iskandar Malaysia By Amin Khairuddin editor@theiskandarian.com
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edini, Iskandar Puteri will position itself to become a smart city as well as the central business district (CBD) for Iskandar Malaysia by 2020, paying focus on property development and other industry aspects within the area. “Since its start from 2008, we have been invested for over RM1 billion for the developments and we are hoping to bring more working population into Medini
Affordable Homes in Kota Tinggi
while our vision is to integrate it to become a smart and connected CBD,” said Managing Director of Medini Iskandar Malaysia (MIM), Datuk Ir. Khairil Anwar Ahmad. Khairil Anwa r also introduced MIM’s cluster development, consisting of the Compass which is the Premier Financial Centre, the Park a Highrise Garden living development, the Pulse, a Premier Green Office Park and the Crescent that is a green lifestyle business park. “We will also be building our first two towers in Medini 9,
Managing Director of Medini Iskandar Malaysia, Datuk Ir. Khairil Anwar Ahmad with YDP of MBJBT, Dr. Badrul Hisham Kassim showing the future Medini city from scale model after the progress briefing session
Datuk Ir. Khairil Anwar Ahmad during Medini Iskandar Malaysia progress brief session
worth of RM230 million, which is expected to be completed by 2018 and alternately will be the one to promote smart and sustainable community initiatives,” he added. Smart city Medini will be propelled with initiatives that feature smart buildings, integrated operations centres, an official Medini online portal as well as smart mobility in the form of electric vehicles and water taxies. “Until today, the land in Medini has been sold for almost 75% for most infrastructure projects and investors coming
in are mostly from Asia. The remaining 25% shall be focused for commercial purposes,” said Khairil Anwar during the briefing. Medini Land is registered with a 99 year international lease, with an occupancy consisting of 70% local residents with the remaining 30% being foreigners. The proposed high speed rail link which is located seven kilometers away from Medini, is also predicted to attract more investments, commercial businesses and tourists into the region. TI
Real Life Case Studies Opinion
A.Devadason
CA(M), FCCA, MDRT Deva is a partner in the firm of Dason & Dason, Chartered Accountants who specialises in tax advisory and consultancy. He can be reached at deva@dason.com.my
Endowment Savings Plan reviously, from the suggestion which I made to set aside 25% of Jack’s salary for savings, I finally compromised and planned on a budget of RM1,000 per month instead. In view of the liquidity that he will have after setting aside this amount, I planned by using an Endowment Savings Plan. These plans are issued by insurance companies and are simply illiquid. They model after the
P
EPF/KWSP where one contributes for a defined term and withdraw it in one lump sum when the desired age arrives. Simply put, it’s a private EPF scheme that’s run by someone else other than the EPF body. I also suggested that he stops using his credit card and dedicate another RM1,000 to settle any outstanding debts. By doing so, he would be achieving dual objectives of building a savings balance while dismantling the debts he had built in the past. To ensure he commits to his savings, I suggested setting up a Standing Instruction with his bank to remit RM1,000 into the savings plan. Then came the second objection! He asked about the returns on maturity. When I gave the projected value, he expressed that the returns were not as high as he wanted it to be.
The Two Objections (Part Two) He contended that inflation would have eaten away the value and the purchasing power of the maturity amount by then and will not be meaningful at all. I let him run out of breath and have his say. After all, he is not wrong. I agreed that inflation is the bane of any savings plan. However, saving RM50,000 today is as equally difficult as it was 30 years ago, despite its reduced value. The final amount is the result of the habit that is being cultivated now. If the habit is good, the result will also be similar. Pinpointing on the less than expected outcome was merely avoiding the savings habit. He finally agreed and for the next 2 months, he called me at least 5 times to express the difficulty of surviving with RM2,000 less than before. Each time, I had to counsel him and assure that the
pain of delayed gratification will be rewarded with the sweetest of fruits. It’s now been almost 2 years and Jack has fully settled his debt, has a decent bank balance and has taken on another savings plan. I reckon the first 2 months of going “cold-turkey” is as difficult as a smoker giving up on cigarettes and he merely needed someone to re-assure him that he was on the right path. Should you want to improve in your financial status, make the commitment to change – NOW! Engage a mentor/coach who will be your sounding board to listen and re-assure you whenever doubts arise. You will be glad that you did so. Here’s wishing you a pleasant start to a new year and a new financial goal. TI
In a continued effort by the government to have more affordable homes in the state, Kota Tinggi is up next with a total of 1500 affordable homes (Rumah Mampu Milik Johor) to be built in three phases in Taman Daiman Jaya, near Kota Tinggi, Johor. Menteri Besar Johor Dato’ Mohamed Khaled Nordin said that 233 units worth RM42,000.00 each would be first built. The project is one of several affordable housing projects in the Tenggara constituency. Khaled added that the first phase of the project on the 6.07ha site was expected to be completed in two years.
PIPC Faces Challenges It recently came to attention that Pengerang’s Oil & Gas projects are facing trouble in securing investments for its Pengerang Integrated Petroleum Complex (PIPC) due to the plummeting oil prices facing the world. Johor Petroleum Development Corp Bhd (JPDC)’s CEO Mohd Yazid Ja’af was quoted as saying that “investors are holding back their investments.” He also said that it was difficult to find a company akin to the country’s oil/ petrochemicals giant Petronas (Petroliam Nasional Bhd) to invest more than RM100 billion in the project. The PIPC is located in Pengerang and is one of the largest pieces of investments in Pengerang district and located on a single plot measuring about 20,000 acres. The project will house oil refineries, naphtha crackers, petrochemical plants as well as a liquefied natural gas (LNG) import terminal and a regasification plant.
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Propernomy by Dr Daniele Opinion
Housing the Nation: Is it happening? RM2,000.00 and RM8,500.00 which should allow them to buy homes priced below RM600,000.00. Authorities and developers should do a more in depth analysis of the actual wealth-sharing to better understand the meaning of affordable values and, at the same time, banks should be start looking into possible measures to tailor the mortgage offer to the actual “pockets or valet size” of these home buyers.
Dr. Daniele Gambero REI Group
REI Group of Companies CEO and co-founder Dr. Daniele Gambero gives presentations on the property market and welcomes feedback at: daniele.g@reigroup.com.my.
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ousing the nation has become a strong tagline for politicians and developers in the last 12 months. Being honest, we all should praise most of the Malaysian developers for the fast action showed in shifting their offers from medium – high end residential properties towards more affordable values and sizes. I’ve underlined that still too many developers are actually offering affordable values in terms of RM/psf but at the end, due to “oversized layout”
in terms of built-up, the value of the house raises again far above the affordable ones. Recently, another threat to the “housing the nation mission” has been once again averting the possibilities for middle class families to realise their dream to own a
home: financing has become more and more difficult and getting your loan approved is getting tougher by the day. BNM (Bank Negara Malaysia) has introduced during the last few years a number of restrictions and curbing measures deemed to cool the speculative actions of irresponsible investors, the infamous “Flippers” (buy today sell in few months and make fast cash out of it). The enforced measures have been surely achieving the target of reducing unscrupulous actions but at the same time have been making it more difficult for genuine buyers to get their hands over a long desired home. Authorities, banks and BNM should really start looking into the profile of genuine buyers to understand their weaknesses and strength. Demographic information are nowadays crucial and strategic to determine the “loan or home-purchasing packages” to be offered. 67% of the Malaysian population is currently aged 39 years and below. This group, representing the future of Malaysia, is mostly having a net monthly income between
Southern region The two tables below show an in-depth study done for one of our client in the southern region and is quite precise in terms of quantities and values to be offered to reply in a pro-active way to the demand of affordable homes in Iskandar Malaysia. Wealth distribution in terms of percentage of households sharing the available wealth above and, based on the outcome defines the quantities and values of homes on offer. Beside this first analysis, we all should consider the fact that saving is not one of the strengths of the young Malaysians and consequently we need to find ways to help them during the purchasing process. As per the table below, it’s easy to understand how affordable homes are actually un-purchasable due to the high amount of cash required upon signing the Sale and Purchase Agreement. Plus banks are very conservative in their risk calculation and very often the applicant gets a slashed margin down to 85% for the lucky ones and 75-80% for the less fortunate. Are there any solutions to all these issues? There are many possible replies to this challenging situation but we all need to be more flexible and a bit creative. In the next issue, I will show some of the possible ideas that, hopefully, BNM and the authorities will be keen to look at. TI
Expat Property Mingle with E&O Johor By Maressa Esa editor@theiskandarian.com
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he Expat Group ( TEG) hosted a night of mingling with several of its members, this time focusing on Eastern & Oriental (E&O) Medini properties. With an attendance of over 80 expats and representatives from other developers within the Medini Iskandar area, the night was about reaching out
to local and new expatriates in Johor and Singapore as well as to introduce E&O’s latest property development, the AVIRA Garden Terrace which is expected to launch in July, later this year. Guests had their eyes focused on the fully-fitted Garden Terraces which is available in two types, both with a built up area of 2250 square feet, enticing with AVIRA Medini offering rental options for both properties. AV I R A M e d i n i a l s o
highlighted their huge 12.5 acre Wellness Sanctuary, which will be featured with two swimming pools and two gymnasiums that complements their residential developments, which is expected to be completed in 2017. Throughout the night, guests were entertained by the live band performance, food and drinks as well as a lucky draw session where winners were given a chance to stay at E&O Hotel Penang. TI
The expats present during the mingle session
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UEM Sunrise and SUTL form ONE15 Puteri Harbour Highlight
The joint venture is expected to pump in a total of S$66.6 million of investments into the state
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ocal developers UEM Sunrise and SUTL Enterprise Limited (SUTL), owners of the ONE15 Marina Club in Sentosa, Singapore announced a new agreement to incorporate, finance and operate a joint venture (JV) company to develop the existing marinas in Johor. “This is a big step forward for UTL Enterprise and our home grown ONE15 brand. The group’s vision is to establish ONE15 as the premium brand for world class marinas internationally and so we are very excited about the plans for Puteri Harbour,” said SUTL Enterprise Executive Director and
Chief Executive Officer Arthur Tay to reporters in a signing ceremony held in ONE15 Marina, Sentosa Singapore. STUL Enterprise is a wholly owned subsidiary of SUTL Marina Holdings Pte. Ltd. (SMHPL) and will hold the majority 60percent shares in this JV endeavour. The project consists of three existing marinas at Puteri Harbour including the development of two new private marinas as well as the expansion of the current public marina, which includes businesses and other ancillary infrastructures. Part of the JV agreement
includes the developing and operating of a proprietary yacht club, a sports centre and other complementary business that may be established in the Puteri Harbour marina. The total estimated investment cost required for this project is estimated to be S$66.6 million with SMHPL’s commitment is estimated to be S$40 million. Anwar Syahrin, Managing Director/CEO of UEM Sunrise who was present at the signing ceremony added that the strategic partnership will pave the way for other future collaborations with reputable and established
Managing Director/CEO of UEM Sunrise Anwar Syahrin and SUTL Enterprise Executive Director and Chief Executive Officer Arthur Tay at the signing ceremony held in ONE15 Marina, Sentosa Singapore organisations. “We believe that the expansion and development of a world class marina in Puteri Harbour will add to the vibrancy
and attractiveness of Iskandar Puteri and contribute towards transforming Iskandar Puteri into a truly sustainable community,” he said. - by Amin Khairuddin TI
Property Investment Opinion
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Medini the next Business Destination of South East Asia
edini Iskandar organised a press tour early February 2016 for journalists around the country to revisit the progress of Medini in Iskandar Puteri. We visited various commercial and residential projects under construction as well as completed ones such as the Gleneagles Medini and Pinewood Studios. I’m familiar with the idea of Medini as an international business district and the various planned amenities around it. I now write a refreshed analysis of Medini with new input from the recent press tour. The mission of Medini according to its planning authority is to be a “Smart and Connected Central Business District of Iskandar Puteri”. I like that vision of a technology driven business hub. The future of cities lies in technology enablement with a progressive
workforce. We are in the middle of a financial downturn not only in the property sector but also in business sentiment across Malaysia. Except for the industrial property sector which has seen continued growth in Iskandar Puteri, I expect all other property segments to remain in the doldrums in Johor and other states for the short term (short term in property can last for years). Needless to say, developers I met during the visit recounted these bad times. There are quite a few projects with over a thousand units each. Each developer has put in great effort in design and value, backed with slick marketing. Incidentally, I was reminded of better times when people in Singapore queued and balloted for such “cheap” plays compared to the insane prices in Singapore.
Toshiba ONE Aquillion 640-slice CT Scan machine at Gleneagles Medini
But times are much different now. The highlight was my visit to Gleneagles Medini. Knowing that the whole premise looks and feels like the Gleaneagles and Mount Elizabeth hospitals in Singapore was immediately exciting. Furthermore, it is one of the few hospitals in South East Asia equipped with the Toshiba ONE Aquillion 640-slice CT Scan machine. This puts in the same category as other world-class imaging centres in Asia. Talking with the management staff there further reassured me of the focus and quality of facilities and vision. However, I only saw few patients and many empty chairs in the lobby. Perhaps it is still early times. Patient growth is increasing with people as far as Malacca and Seremban coming over. This is rather reassuring to see Iskandar Malaysia playing a major healthcare role in the country as many more of such top hospitals are in the pipeline. The next highlight was the visit to Afiniti Residences. This is the joint sovereign funds of Temasek-Khazanah project of a serviced apartment, condo and training center sandwiched between LEGOLAND Malaysia and Gleaneagles. The buildings are ready and the service apartment is also opened for business. I believe this project will take off well. The architecture is above anything else in Johor. Even the garden in the podium is designed by the same world-renowned architect that did the Gardens By The Bay. The next project of interest is the Avira, another joint development of Temasek and Khazanah. The general manager of Avira presented the masterplan and also the show houses. I’m greatly impressed with the overall plan, attention to detail and quality of construction. Although prices are not cheap for these premium houses (costing above RM1.5million each) but uniquely, the houses come fully furnished with ready for immediate
Ed Cheong Ed is the Singapore founder of the Iskandar Malaysia Investors Forum and Rafflesland Group of Companies which provides platform for property investors to gain insights and worldclass investment strategies. He is contactable at iskandar@rafflesland.com
occupation. Overall, I believe Medini is on track with its world-class infrastructure and a masterplan that can withstand the rigors of a weakening economic outlook. Continued state and federal government overseeing both social and economic matters in Iskandar Puteri are necessary ingredients for realising the difficult goals of building a city. Attracting workers from around the state to live in Iskandar Puteri is a foremost challenge. Affordable housing with new jobs are needed quite urgently. Transportation links too must be improved by rail and buses to other parts of Johor. Moreover, the causeway jams along the Second Link and Johor Bahru Causeway must be solved or lessened. The economic linkages to Singapore, the underlying growth factor of Iskandar Puteri, must be enhanced with better transport between Iskandar Puteri and Tuas. Both sides must take immediate steps to ensure traffic optimisation for both Medini and industries in Jurong to grow. These are the points both developers and planners already know but it’s worth the effort to remind all stakeholders of such foundational issues. Property investment will follow better jobs and higher incomes of the people of Johor. TI
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