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SEGGET:
On the Road to Rejuvenation Sg Segget rejuvenation is at the heart of the JB Transformation initiative with many positive expected outcomes and seeks to transform JB into an international city by 2020 but can the businesses sail through the journey? More
The Iskandarian Do’s & Don’ts The good, the bad and the ugly of fellow Iskandarians
on pg4
A quick stop should not be the reason for bad parking
Pavements are common victims to haphazard parking
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Iskandar Malaysia Open Day Highlight
Iskandar Malaysia celebrated its 10th Anniversary with an informative Open Day
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enteri Besar Johor Dato’ Khaled Nordin launched Iskandar Malaysia Open Day (IMOD) 2016 at Komtar JBCC, saying that despite the continuous highlights on the region’s investment growth, the social agenda of the people living in Iskandar Malaysia has never been compromised, yet cultivated in tandem with its economic development. Khaled added that the social agenda encompasses several purposes including skills training, the development of human capital, job opportunities as well as programmes for SMEs in order to enhance the quality of living for all in the region. He also announced the Iskandar Malaysia Employment Grant (IMEG), which is a matching grant
to encourage job opportunities in seven targeted groups, including fresh graduates, the handicapped and retrenched workers. “Through IMEG, the state government will aid them by giving 50% of their pay for six months, with a maximum grant of RM2500.00 a month for each employed worker,” said Khaled adding that there will also be a one off grant which is the same as a month’s pay upon approval. The state government has injected RM6 million for IMEG and it is open to all Johorians regardless of race or religion. “Visitors to IMOD can get first-hand information on job vacancies, affordable housing and registration, education, new townships and business
Forest City’s Ir. Syarul Izam Sarifudin (extreme right) briefing Dato’ Khaled Nordin, Datuk Ismail and EXCO members about Forest City during IMOD opportunities in Iskandar Malaysia,” said Datuk Ismail Ibrahim, Chief Executive of Iskandar Regional Development Authority (IRDA). During the launch ceremony, IRDA and Greenland Tebrau Sdn Bhd signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to ensure collaboration towards establishing the Iskandar Malaysia Smart City
Bank of Johor PEGASUS INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL
Gleneagles MEDINI
“In The Arms Of One Who Cares”
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he Sultan of Johor, Sultan Ibrahim Almarhum Sultan Iskandar suggested the state government to establish its own bank named the Bank of Johor. The ruler said although the state and the federal government is committed to building affordable homes, there are still many people in this state who cannot afford a home due to the inability to gain a bank loan. “The bank will provide banking services to the people of Johor not only for the purpose of loans or financing development projects, but also for savings deposits and investments.” “In addition to the cash reserves of the state government of RM3 billion as well as the government revenues and its stateowned company has reached RM7.5 billion a year, they can certainly be
a shareholder for the Bank of Johor,” said the ruler. He conveyed this during the Fourth Conference of the 13th State Assembly at the Sultan Ibrahim building in Bukit Timbalan. Also present was Tunku Mahkota of Johor, Tunku Ismail Sultan Ibrahim, Tunku Temenggong Johor, Tunku Idris Iskandar and Tunku Panglima Johor, Tunku Abdul Rahman. The Sultan welcomed the cooperation by Bank Negara to the Sultan Ibrahim Foundation to provide funding for home purchases that would help the lower income groups to own their own home. “Managing this loan application registration will begin soon and the selection will be made by a special committee based on several criteria that have been set,” said Sultan Ibrahim.
Experiential Centre (IMSCEC) and the Iskandar Malaysia Smart City Conference part of the region’s 10th anniversary celebration. The Iskandar Malaysia Smart City Conference will showcase the Iskandar Malaysia Smart City framework and updates as well as Smart City Technologies. - by Amin Khairuddin TI
50,000 Jobs Awaiting
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he Pengerang Integrated Petroleum Complex (PIPC) is currently on track towards its four year completion plan as most of the initial construction is 25% complete. In a recent progress briefing, the Minister of International Trade and Industry, Dato’ Sri Mustapa Mohamed visited the complex with the Chief Executive Officer of Malaysian Investment Development Authority, Dato’ Azman Mahmud, the Malaysian External Trade
Development Corporation SME corp, Dato’ Hafsah Hashim and the Chief Executive of JPDC, Yazid Ja’afar. The PIPC project is managed by Petronas and is expected to initiate operations by the first quarter of 2019 with a potential of 50,000 job opportunities awaiting the public upon its completion. Currently, public transport infrastructure in Pengerang is at 33.72% and the Government has allocated RM2.49 billion for the purpose of building major roads, new drainage systems as well as amenities including new schools, fire and police stations, clinics and community centres. By year 2020, PIPC is targeted to contribute RM18.3 billion to the Gross National Income (GNI) according to the preliminary statistics provided by the Performance Management and Delivery Unit (PEMANDU).
IRDA to Improve Public Transportation with BRT
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Chief Executive of Iskandar Regional Development Authority (IRDA) Datuk Ismail Ibrahim
ccording to the Chief Executive of Iskandar Regional Development Authority (IRDA) Datuk Ismail Ibrahim, the implementation of the Rapid Bus Transit (BRT) in Iskandar Malaysia is expected to ease traffic congestion within the region as early as next year. The project will be executed in three phases with the first phase expected to be completed by 2020, with a system based on existing
models of some countries like the one implemented in Brisbane, Australia, which Ismail believes is able to attract the masses to use public transportation. “We hope that by early 2017, we will be able to execute the project and determine the routes of the BRT.” “So far we have the desire to ensure that the BRT will begin operations in 2020 as the first phase is very important because it involves major routes,” said Ismail during a meeting with
several Johor based bureau media recently. Ismail explained that the government has allowed IRDA to continue efforts for the implementation of the BRT system which will cover 90% of the total area of Iskandar Malaysia upon completion, adding that the construction of infrastructures such as systems involves investments from the government, but at the same time is an opportunity for interested parties from the
private sector to invest as well. “In implementing the BRT system, the private sector will be involved in the implementation of the operations and we welcome interested parties to jointly participate in its implementation,” he said. The development costs of the BRT is estimated to be five to ten times lower that the double track mass rapid transit (MRT) or monorail systems. - by Amin Khairuddin TI
Published by True Soul Media PLT [No.51-B, Jalan Impian Emas 5/1, Taman Impian Emas, 81300 Johor Bahru] Printed by Twinstar Synergy Sdn. Bhd. [Lot2A, Jln 13/2, Seksyen 13, 46200, Petaling Jaya, Selangor] Copyright of articles, contributions and photos which are published by The Iskandarian is the property of True Soul Media PLT. The Iskandarian does its best to ensure the authenticity and accuracy of its contents, the publisher cannot accept any responsibilities for errors, mistakes and inaccuracies. The publisher reserves the rights of this product and no part of this publication may be reproduced in any form or by any means without the permission of the publisher.
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State Government backs Johor FA with RM10million Highlight
JDT and Johor FA receives monetary incentives from Johor state government and KPRJ
(From left) Mohd Radzi Mohd Amin, Datuk Zulkarnain Kamisan, Johor Menteri Besar Dato’ Mohamed Khaled Nordin, Datuk Ismail Karim, Datuk Abdul Latiff Bandi and KPRJ CEO Abd Razak Mohd Yusoff at the incentive presentation for Johor FA at Iskandar Puteri
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he Johor FA (PBNJ) and Johor Darul Ta’zim (JDT) team received a total of more than RM10 million in monetary incentives by the state government and Kumpulan Prasarana Rakyat Johor (KPRJ) for the development of football in the state. The 2015 AFC champions made their mark as the first Malaysian team to bring home the coveted trophy. The contributions will be channelled towards the improvements and achievements of JDT in the future. “We are thankful for all the support and contributions from the state government as it will help us conduct more programmes to develop Johor football especially at the
grass root level,” said Datuk Ismail Karim, Johor FA President, after receiving the contribution from Menteri Besar Johor Dato’ Mohamed Khaled Nordin. Ismail also added that among the undergoing football development projects in Johor includes the construction of the JDT football academy in Kulai and the indoor training centre in Padang Seri Gelam in Johor Bahru that will be open in June 2016. JDT also received an additional RM149,000 from the state government as a reward for their success in the 2016 Piala Sumbangsih where the team beat Pahang 7-6 (penalty) after a 1-1 draw. - by Hakim Malik TI
Empowering the Voice of Women Highlight
Johor Women’s League plans to step up on gender equality
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he Women’s League of Johor (JEWEL) recently hosted the grand Jewel International Women’s Day High Tea 2016 at Persada Johor Bahru. The event was graced by Permaisuri Johor DYMM Raja Zarith Sofia Sultan Idris Shah as well as an overwhelming crowd of approximately 500 guests. With the theme, ‘Planet 50-50 by 2030: Step It Up for Gender Equality’, the organisation revealed its incoming President, Woo Sow Pheng, who is one of the organisation’s founding members and IMSHA (Iskandar Malaysia Social Hero Award) recipient. She plans to collaborate with more NGOs to bring a bigger impact on social change and empowering women. Woo will be replacing Thanam Visvanathan-Suresh, who served as JEWEL’s President for eight years. “A woman has a very strong voice and as a mother, it is the most empowering role that we can have. If mothers can join together,
DYMM Raja Zarith Sofia Sultan Idris Shah presenting certificates to successful bidders during hybrid orchid auctions we will have more strenght to promote peace and make women’s voices stronger to ask leaders for abolishment of sensation of war and resolve religious conflicts in the world,” said Woo to the media. The organisation also gave a special tribute to the Johor Police Deputy Chief, Datuk Aishah Mohammad for her outstanding performance and contributions. “I served 41 years in the police force and it wasn’t an easy journey in a maledominated organisation. I am thankful and I count my blessings in moulding me into who I am today,” said Datuk Aishah during her speech.
‘JDT Sembang Bola’ Prepaid Starter Pack
Among other activities during the course of the high tea was the auctions of orchids, namely two hybrid species, the ‘Phaelanopsis’ and the ‘Dendrobium’, which was auctioned off at RM21,130 and RM8500 respectively. Proceeds from the auction will be channeled to JEWEL’s yearlong projects and activities such as the advocacy on women and children’s rights, documentation for children’s birth certificates, education on public safety, as well as helping children from poor families to stay in school and finish their education. - by Maressa Esa TI
Quick Reads
Interest
Fans will enjoy free updates on JDT happenings and live streaming goodies
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ord up for all Johor Darul Ta’zim (JDT) fans because ONE XOX Sdn Bhd just signed a collaborative agreement with Southern Tigers Sdn Bhd to introduce a special edition Southern Tigers Club Prepaid ‘JDT Sembang Bola’ starter pack. Aimed to bring the club’s fan base closer with updates, the collaboration also means building a close knit community, nurturing healthier lifestyle and promoting local sports talents. “We realised that ONE XOX has a strong Johor subscriber base and we could track the spike in data usage whenever a JDT match or happening was under way. We see the hunger for JDT updates and we stepped in to assist through this special edition prepaid starter pack with a customised special dialing code,” said Group Chief Executive Officer of ONE XOX, Ng
Kok Heng. “JDT fans are like one big family and we want them to share the joy of every JDT triumph without extra cost through this prepaid starter pack as well as benefiting only JDT fans,” expressed Southern Tigers Sdn Bhd’s Executive Director, Rezal bin Dato’ Rahim. The RM10 SIM pack is customised with USSD EASY MENU featuring all updates of the club happenings, team’s achievements, training schedules and regime that can be accessed online and offline for free by dialing *150#. Fans can also enjoy ONE XOX 4G LTE speed to watch live streaming videos from JDT official site through JDTV channel. Ng is expecting about 100,000 SIM packs to be on sale within six months to a year after its initial introduction, while its USSD EASY MENU checking empowers
Group Chief Executive Officer of ONE XOX Bhd, Ng Kok Heng (right) and Southern Tigers Sdn Bhd’s Executive Director, Rezal bin Dato’ Rahim (second from left) presenting Southern Tigers Club Prepaid ‘JDT Sembang Bola’ starter pack during the launch fans to access information without push notification intrusiveness. Interested fans can get their starter packs at Southern
Tigers office in Stadium Tan Sri Dato Hj. Hassan Yunos and with selected ONE XOX dealers. - by Maressa Esa TI
No More Polystyrene and Plastic in Johor Soon there will be no more plastics or polystyrene in the state as the Johor government will ban the usage of it in a bid to protect health and the environment. State Health and Environment Committee chairman Datuk Ayub Rahmat said the matter would be announced by Menteri Besar Johor Dato’ Mohamed Khaled Nordin at the end of the year at the tabling of the 2017 state budget. Ayub said, a working paper on the use of biodegradable and biocompostable containers to replace polystyrene and plastic was being prepared J-Biotech.
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Segget: On the Road to Rejuvenation Exclusive
Sg Segget rejuvenation is at the heart of the JB Transformation initiative with many positive expected outcomes and seeks to transform JB into an international city by 2020 but can the businesses sail through the journey?
From Cover
An aerial view of the Sg. Segget Rejuvenation project which is expected to be delayed until end of the year
By Hakim Malik editor@theiskandarian.com
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he Sungai Segget Rejuvenation project is facing dispraise from certain quarters of Johor Bahru folks, especially business owners in the area. The RM240 million project is part of the Johor Bahru Transformation programme which was initiated back in 2013. It was expected to be completed by end of June this year. Since then, the project has been under the spotlight for the flashflood occurrences and massive traffic congestion in the city centre, apart from the declining business in the affected stretch along Jalan Wong Ah Fook. Surveys in the area revealed that most businesses here have shut down or are about to hit the dust if things don’t improve. “Sales are down by more than 50% compared
to before, and you can see that most of the other shops around are already out of business,” said Chia, 37 who owns a sundry shop at Jalan Wong Ah Fook. “There is no direct access to the shop, and the only safe way across is too far,” he said, adding that many of the businesses in the area have been around for more than half a century. A food stall operator in Plaza Seni that we approached pointed out the lack of safety barriers around the construction site, adding that the dusty condition is not conducive for his food business. “You can clearly see the congestion on Jalan Wong Ah Fook and with these conditions, how our business can prosper?” said a Malay kuih stall owner that only wishes to be known as Ali. A spokesperson from Iskandar Regional Development Authority (IRDA) has commented on the issue saying that a few hiccups along the way has
pushed the project beyond its completion date. “Completion of Package One is expected to be delayed up to the end of the year and Package Two, which is the beautification stage will start after that,” said the spokesperson. In 2005, the state government covered Sungai Segget as a short term solution to control the pollution and stench of the river. In 2013, Menteri Besar Johor Dato’ Khaled Nordin announced that the Segget Rejuvenation project will turn the 1.2km waterway into a new tourist attraction dubbed the “Gem of JB City”. He said it was vital to transform the city centre as one of the flagship zones in Iskandar Malaysia. Package One of the project involves the construction of a centralised sewage treatment plant (CSWP) in order to clean and improve the quality of the water before flowing out to the Straits of Tebrau. 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
Hotlines
Development Authority (IRDA) 07-233 3000
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Clean-up for Desaru Responsible
Highlight
TAR&H collaborates with local community to clean up beach
Resort in the City with lush tropical and green landscape
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hemed Attractions Resorts & Hotels Sdn. Bhd. (TAR&H) recently collaborated with Lembaga Kemajuan Johor Tenggara (KEJORA) to organise the second annual beach clean-up activity at Batu Layar in Desaru. Dubbed “TAR&H Beach Cleanup @ Desaru Coast”, the annual programme encouraged voluntarism amongst TAR&H employees whilst at the same time, revitalised employees’ engagement with local authorities and the community in Desaru, Johor. More than 250 volunteers joined in the effort, including TAR&H and KEJORA employees, students from SMK Lokman Hakim and the local community of Kampung Punggai. Around 1.7 tons of trash was collected from the two kilometer beach line of Desaru Coast. “Hopefully the beach clean-up effort will attract more tourists and create a better visual impact for local beaches in Desaru,” said Tunku Dato’ Ahmad Burhanuddin, Group Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Themed Attractions Resorts & Hotels Sdn. Bhd.
Landscape Neighbourhood Award 2015 for Thistle
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Employees of TAR&H weighing the garbage gathered according to the categories: recyclable, non-recyclable and pollution Among the junk collected included plastic bags, fishing lines, polystyrene boxes, tires and tar balls were all categorised into recyclable, non-recyclable and pollution. “Pollutant such as tar balls not only destroys the eco-system, it also disrupts the livelihood of local fishermen in the area,” said Burhanuddin. TAR&H organised its first beach cleanup in 2015 covering 1.5km stretch of the beach in Tanjung Balau, Johor and attracted 151 volunteers with a trash collection of 867.5kg. - by Hakim Malik TI
histle Johor Bahru was awarded the Landscape Neighbourhood Award 2015 by Johor Bahru City Council for their lush tropical gardens and green landscape in the hotel. The hotel’s security manager, Peter Law, was presented with a trophy, a wall plaque, RM3000, two beautiful potted plants and a voucher to purchase plants from Chaqura Garden & Nursery by Johor State Secretary, Dato’ Haji Ismail Bin Karim at Dataran Bandaraya Johor Bahru. “This is the first time Thistle Johor Bahru has won a prestigious landscape award. We thank Majlis Bandaraya Johor Bahru for their continuous support and
Rashid Gallyot, General Manager of Thistle Johor Bahru (centre) with the Landscape Neighbourhood Award we hope to work together to keep our hotel’s landscape beautiful and green always,” said Thistle Johor Bahru’s General Manager, Rashid Gallyot. Rashid also mentioned that there are plans to grow more colourful flowers and
plants with the advice of Majlis Perbandaran Negeri Johor and intends to name each plant or tree in the hotel while the Housekeeping department with a team of talented gardeners overlook the hotel’s landscape. - by Maressa Esa TI
imCoop Opens Fifth Outlet Highlight
Setia Tropika residents can now enjoy fair priced goods right at their doorstep
K Datuk Haji Maulizan Bujang signing the commemorative plaque at the launch of imCoop Setia Tropika, while surrounded by local residents
operasi Iskandar Malaysia Berhad (imCoop) launched its fifth outlet in Setia Tropika. Tebrau MP Datuk Haji Maulizan Bujang officiated the opening which saw a sponsorship giveaway of imCoop Shareholder cards by Yayasan Bandaraya Johor Bahru (MBJB) and Johor Corporation (JCorp) to 150 recipients from middle to low income households. “This is an effort to ensure the local communities be able to
enjoy imCoop’s membership perks through a platform provided by Koperasi Muafakat Johor,” said Maulizan. The state government has allocated an estimated RM1.3 million to fund 6,500 targeted groups from middle to low income households. With imCoop’s discount card, this targeted group can enjoy a 3% price reduction on any purchase of GST imposed goods, a step to aid the lower income groups adjusting
to the rising cost of living in Johor, especially in the Iskandar region. Launched in November 2014, imCoop is now in its second phase of the retail business where five fair priced shops have been opened in Kota Masai, Paloh, i-Park Kulai, Larkin Idaman and now Setia Tropika. There are also two outlets in Negeri Sembilan (Panchor & Paroi). imCoop aspires to open 150 outlets eventually. - by Amin Khairuddin TI
Beware of Underpriced Travel Packages
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he MATTA Fair Johor Chapter 2016 had a turnout of over 12,000 people with a sales turnover of about RM12 million. The fair featured 145 participating booths consisting of four local tourist organisations including the Johor Tourism board as well as other states including Selangor, Pahang and Kuala Lumpur. Other exhibitors include 25 travel agencies, five resorts and hotels, three theme parks, two cruise liners as well as nine other travel related services. “While MATTA Fair Johor Chapter is currently highlighting domestic tourism, the state
Caution
Public should report to MATTA for suspiciously cheap travel packages government also jumped on the bandwagon by boosting the local tourism sector especially when Johor is being globally recognised,” said Johor State Executive Committee For Tourism, Trade & Consumer Affairs, Dato’ Tee Siew Kiong during the fair launch. “The public is advised to carefully peruse their travel package purchases and if there’s any offers found suspiciously underpriced, the
incident must be reported to MATTA and the Ministry of Domestic Trade, Co-Operatives and Consumerism (KPDNKK) if either the agents are registered under MATTA,” urged Tee during press conference after the launch. The next MATTA Fair Johor Chapter will be taking place from 30th to 31st July 2016 at The Summit, Batu Pahat, Johor. - by Maressa Esa TI
Johor State Executive Committee For Tourism, Trade & Consumer Affairs, Dato’ Tee Siew Kiong (middle) during the MATTA Fair Johor Chapter 2016 launch
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General Manager of Hotel Jen Puteri Harbour, Paolo Campilo with the hotel’s top management team giving a toast at the recent “We are One” party
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otel Jen celebrated its first birthday bash with a grand celebration in Puteri Harbour, recently. The “We are One” party was part of the #NextJenParty series where nine parties were held simultaneously in nine different locations to mark the memorable occasion. The hotel collaborated with local artists, performers and chefs in order to infuse the parties with art, music, flavour and culture unique to each city the hotel is located. In Johor, Hotel Jen Puteri Harbour created a colourful
batik inspired cocktail. The full batik experience was shared with guests through the batik painting activity, where guests had a chance to dabble their hands in colouring the art piece made for the occasion. “The Next Jen series is a platform that allows us to showcase what’s next for Hotel Jen through the latest trends and cultural influences that brings to life ‘that Jen feeling,” said Marisa Aranha, Vice President of Sales and Marketing at Hotel Jen, Iskandar Puteri.
The event also saw Paolo Campilo, General Manager of Hotel Jen Puteri Harbour, blowing the candles out and making a wish with the hotel’s top management team to mark the first anniversary. All nine parties were streamed live via Periscope that night. Hotel Jen is a midrange lifestyle hotel chain spread across Asia Pacific and the latest brand of the Shangri-La group that targets to appeal to the new generation of travellers. - by Hakim Malik TI
he Johor Association of Professional Secretaries and Administrators (JAPSA) celebrated Administrative Professionals Day with a workshop entitled, “Unleashing the Power of You: Revive, Restore and Renew” and a High Tea reception. JAPSA, which was founded in 1985, has established a tradition of celebrating Administrative Professionals Week every two years with a training event to give participants the opportunity to refresh their skills and celebrate with fellow members in an organised gathering. This year, the celebration held on 9th April 2016, included a half-day workshop training session with a High Tea reception at Hotel Mutiara Johor Bahru. The workshop was facilitated by Ruth Fernandez, a qualified group fitness instructor and health coach who has close to 20 years’ experience in education and training in South East Asia and the United States. The 2-part workshop session was designed to equip participants with tips and skills in interesting modules like, “A Toolbox for Creating a Professional Presence” and “Navigating your Career and Making Fearless Life Choices.” Among the interesting things, participants acquired the skills to create winning impressions using the ABC’s – Appearance, Behaviour and Communication, and enjoyed learning more about their personalities in the Understanding Yourself
Facilitator, Ruth Fernandez, speaking to an avid audience at the workshop and Others Personality Profile exercise. “I’m surprised at what I’ve discovered about myself in the Personality Profile exercise,” said Jenny Go, who has been secretary to the Directors of Crescendo Corporation Berhad for 14 years, adding that this information would help her make necessary changes to improve herself. Another participant, Vijaya Raman Nair, secretary to the Directors of the Foh Chong Group for 35 years, said she would apply what she identified about herself to benefit everyone. JAPSA President, Vijaya Subramaniam, was pleased at how workshop facilitator, Fernandez, challenged and encouraged participants to look at issues with a fresh perspective. She said it was empowering to acknowledge that, “All failure is feedback” and “Practice makes progress and not perfection.” - by Peggy Loh TI
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Homeless in the City Concern
We need to look at both sides of the coin to find a true solution to the problem of vagrancy
Baharain Bugiman stares into the unknown
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hen it seems that life has ended in downtown JB, the dimming of business lights along Jalan Dhoby and the sound of empty streets of Wong Ah Fook are the triggers for some inhabitants of the city to finally reveal themselves, those who call the alleyways and benches of the area home - the vagrants and the homeless. It should be noted that many people tend to lump them all into one category, which is clearly a wrong move. Some may be beggars, some have jobs; yet not enough to put a roof over their heads and some are just down on their luck, enduring until things get better. Either way, society still views them as a stigma. We need to address this issue in order to achieve a more inclusive society, in line with the vision of Muafakat Johor. The state’s welfare department is in charge of aiding vagrants and the homeless. There are a total of ten teams that works in tandem for each district in Johor. “This year we are scheduled to have 20 joint operations with other government agencies including the police, immigration as well as the health department. When we come across homeless people, we aid them by taking them into our shelters and rehabilitate them,” said Johor Welfare Deputy Director of Enforcement Sharawati Shahbudin. Under the Destitute Persons Act (DPA) 1977, it allows authorities to conduct mass roundups in order to control vagrancy. Those detained will be sent for rehabilitation for up to three years, those below the age of 60 will be sent to the ‘Desa Bina Diri’ in Mersing, Johor while those above the age of 60 will be sent to ‘Rumah Seri Kenangan’ in Mahmodiah, Johor Bahru. “Doing joint operations is easier and safer than conducting on our own, because there are many types of people that we encounter and some may act aggressive while some may need medical assistance,” said Sharawati, adding that they act based on scheduled operations or public reports. Last year, a total of 185 vagrants were picked up by the Johor Welfare Department with Pontian, Johor having the highest recorded number of 71, while Batu Pahat, Johor has the lowest recorded number of 3. For Johor Bahru, a total of 43 were found and
brought in. These numbers are a mix of male, female and children. Any immigrants found during these operations would be processed by the State Immigration Department instead. The Iskandarian managed to talk to a few vagrants around the Tun Sri Lanang carpark, a place that many have called home since several decades ago. Approaching them was not easy, a mix of fear and distrust was clearly in the air, but after a while they opened up and told us their side of the story. “Every time the state welfare department rounds us up and detain us, they will mix us up with others that they have caught including sick people, which might infect us too,” said Sarip, 52 who insists that he likes the atmosphere at Tun Sri Lanang as its windy and cool. Sarip shared his experience of witnessing his friend being detained by the welfare department. “How they conduc t their operations is wrong. There should be some communication, instead of just coming here and arresting us like criminals. We want to be helped, not get arrested; we want to be free (when asked why they refused to be confined). I can still work; I still have energy and can find work. We want to be a part of the society,” he added. The federal government has a shelter programme called ‘Anjung Singgah’, providing the homeless with a room for a period of two weeks. “The shelters they provide are temporary and after a week or two, we have to leave and can’t apply to stay there again.” “Some NGOs still provide aid, but we don’t ask, not once I’ve asked for money or begged for food,” said Baharain Bugiman, an elderly man who has been living on the streets of downtown JB for over 40 years, doing construction works in Singapore and odd jobs whenever he can. There are several NGOs that provide food and clean clothes to the homeless around the city including Kechara Soup Kitchen. As like any act of kindness, they hope to aid vagrants with a different approach compared to the governments, but we fellow Johorians must play our part too, and it starts with being aware of the issue. - by Amin Khairuddin & Hakim Malik TI
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Q&A
Monthly Drill Interview By Editor and the collaborative efforts which have gone into this exciting development are proof that the halal market is not only confined within the Muslim world.
Dennis Ng was re-designated from Executive D i r e c t o r to Group Managing Director of UMLand on 1st March 2016. He is also the Executive Director of Lextrend Sdn Bhd, Director of Seri Alam Properties Sdn Bhd and UMLand Medini Lakeside Development Sdn Bhd; subsidiaries of UMLand. Dennis is also the President and CEO of King George Financial Corporation, a real estate company headquartered in Vancouver, Canada and Director of Allied Hotel Properties Inc; a hotel investment and management company which are both listed on the TSX Venture Exchange in Canada. Born in Singapore and raised in Vancouver, Dennis is a Computer Science graduate from the University of British Columbia with 15 years of experience in real estate development and investment and AEC related IT in Singapore and Canada.
BIO
You’re a man who’s wearing many management hats! How do you juggle your personal and working life? In this instance I would have to say manage is the more ideal term compared to juggle! Admittedly, I am constantly working and travelling. Nevertheless, I strongly believe that in order to achieve work-life balance, I have to be able to manage my time well and delegate work accordingly. I have full confidence and trust in my team and my role is to oversee and ensure that work gets done from a strategic perspective.
Tell us more about UMCity Medini Lakeside UMCity was conceptualised as a fully integrated commercial hub catering to the urban dweller and it offers a world class corporate environment along with excellent amenities. Its location which is inside the Medini Iskandar Development Zone also boasts of a lakeside environment, allows for unique business advantage for those who are experts in soft skilled fields. The development is approximately 13 acres in size and has a master plan which was designed specifically to be a showcase for the international audience. The guidelines which we used throughout the development of this project include factors such as sustainability, community as well as place making. We believe its proximity to the region’s key transportation hub will further increase the interest of the market.
Dennis Ng Yew Khim Group Managing Director
United Malayan Land Bhd (UMLand)
with parties who have a strong background in their given fields of expertise. For Amari Johor Bahru, we have decided to collaborate with Onyx, one of Asia Pacific’s leading hospitality management companies, who in their own capacity is in a good position to provide us with the much needed expertise in this field. As for the Johor Halal Park, we believe there is a lot of potential for the development to emerge as a leading halal bio-based and herbalbased park. The cooperative effort which has extended from the State Government as well as the Federal Government has allowed us to market the Johor Halal Park to investors from all over the world. The growing interest from investors in countries like China, Japan, South Korea, the Middle East and Europe shows us that we are on the right track and the potential for the Park is definitely there.
UMLand has gone from developing houses and apartments to venturing into new territories like introducing Amari Johor Bahru (hotel) and the first integrated Halal Park (JHP) in the state of Johor. What’s motivating you guys to venture into unknown waters and what sort of risk exposure does it put UMLand under?
What are your thoughts on the current property market and is Iskandar Malaysia still bankable?
For years we have not only built townships, but created lifestyles and at the same time, developed a brand that the community can trust. UMLand is aiming towards a world class company and in today’s market, a company is unable to focus on only one particular aspect if it expects to grow and expand. Navigating into unchartered territory does put a company at risk; however, we are being smart about our ventures and have only associated ourselves
There have been some growing concerns within the market and the industry players regarding the future. For a company who has been in this industry for as long as we have, we believe that this is all part and parcel of business. The business cycle is as such and there will be boom times as well as hard times, and people are more cautious amidst global economic outlook but mid to long term is still attractive for the right product and location in Malaysia.
Referring to whether Iskandar Malaysia is still bankable or otherwise, one needs to understand the reason behind the Iskandar Malaysia project. This project, which was initiated by the Malaysian Government aims to make its mark as a commercial and business centre for the southern gateway of Malaysia. It is an enormous development that is meant to grow and expand over years and will continue to change according to time. Therefore, a development that will function as a city will always be bankable and continue to evolve.
JHP has claimed to have worldwide potential investors. Is getting into the Halal business lucrative enough to sustain? The latest study has stated that there are 1.6 billion Muslims throughout the world which makes up 22% of the world’s entire population. Therefore, a business or a development that caters specifically to Muslims will most definitely be lucrative, by sheer volume. The investors are interested to tap into that potential market and UMLand is very proud to be part of this emerging development. Our collaboration with Johor Biotechnology & Biodiversity Corporation (J-Biotech) will create an integrated industrial park based on halal regulations, meaning everything that will be manufactured or produced within this Park will have to go through the strict regulations of a HALMAS Accredited Halal Hub. For us, the opportunities seem endless
Seri Alam has benchmarked itself as a City of Knowledge. Are there more educational institutions coming there? The City of Knowledge came about due to Seri Alam’s proximity to several universities such as the University Kuala Lumpur, Universiti Teknologi MARA and the Asia Metropolitan University. Then it just became more prominent as there are a few schools which have mushroomed around and within Seri Alam itself. At the moment, we are currently focusing on what we can do in order to cater to the fast-growing population of the township. The latest additional educational institutions other than Foon Yew High School will be Sanctuary International School, an international school for children from 3-13 years old which focuses on Green, sustainable and low carbon foot print. Also in the pipeline, Bandar Seri Alam will have an F&B lifestyle shopping village.
Seri Austin’s multiple award winning township is always in the press for their countless activities and has earned itself the title of being perhaps the most awarded township of UMLand’s fleet. Care to share with us on what’s upcoming at Seri Austin? Seri Austin will be launching an upcoming development by the hills, Esther 2, SemiDetached houses, a mixture of 2 towers of apartment totalling 204-unit and also 58unit 3-storey landed strata called D’Lagoon, a development by the lake. In the pipeline, we have also strata bungalows and a neighbourhood shopping mall. TI
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peggy loh
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
Wong Ah Fook – An eminent Johor Pioneer
Façade of the Johor Bahru Kwong Siew Heritage Gallery at Jalan Siu Nam in the former Kampung Ah Fook
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alan Wong Ah Fook is a familiar main road in Johor Bahru, but who was Wong Ah Fook? Wong was a key personality in Johor history who had close links with the Johor sultan and established himself in building construction before gaining success as an influential entrepreneur. As a carpenter-turned-builder, Wong is credited for building the magnificent Istana Besar or Grand Palace, Istana Zahariah, Balai Zahariah and the Johor Bahru Prison, among other shops and buildings. Wong Fook Kee, better known as Wong Ah Fook or simply Wong Fook, came from a distinguished Taishan family in Yanjincun, China. At that time, the warring struggle for land and resources between the Cantonese and Hakka around the Pearl Delta, made it difficult for Wong to improve his future. So in 1854, 17-year old Wong left home to seek his fortune in a distant land. Thousands of Chinese immigrants or singkeh, desperate for a better life, arrived in Nanyang or Southern Seas, in the 19th century. Wong suffered the same fears and anxieties, the same hopes and aspirations as other immigrants, but he survived while many perished. Every immigrant was to find his own path to wealth and while Wong had courage and fortitude, he was also a genius in turning opportunities into profits. Wong was not a coolie or a merchant and with only a basic education, he was also neither ignorant nor uninformed. When Wong chose to be apprenticed to a man in the woodworking business, his future livelihood was literally in his hands. His ability to turn his carpentry skills into a construction
business proved that he also had good entrepreneurial skills. He then obtained the benevolent patronage of Hoo Ah Kay, a fellow Cantonese nicknamed, Whampoa, who had a successful business as a ships’ chandler. Whampoa, who spoke English well, moved confidently in European social circles and it was he who introduced Wong
Datin Patricia Lim Pui Huen, greatgrand-daughter of Wong Ah Fook, with the books she wrote on Johor and her great-grandfather to Temenggong Sri Maharaja Abu Bakar, a Johor ruler who was open to all Chinese and had plans to start a wave of modern development. By then Wong had earned a reputation as the building contractor who completed two warehouses for Paterson & Simons, one of the European companies that developed out of an older firm founded by William Whemys Ker in 1828. Among the first Europeans to set up business in Singapore, Ker was a friend and
business associate of the Temenggong of Johor, who had warehouses at Havelock Road, by the Singapore River. Wong later met the Maharaja’s consort, Maharani Fatimah, the former Wong Ah Gew, also a Cantonese. The Maharaja had such a high regard for her that he named the Muar district, Bandar Maharani, in her honour and when he attained the title of Sultan in 1885, she was bestowed the title of Sultanah. Traditionally, Chinese who share the same surname are regarded as being related to each other and Sultanah Fatimah addressed Wong as “older brother” and treated him as her kinsman. Besides Chinese immigrants who arrived to open up Johor for the cultivation of pepper and gambier in the kangchu system, Europeans and wealthy Arabs came to invest here. When James Meldrum saw the resources from the Johor jungles, he established the first European enterprise here in a steam sawmill on the left bank of Sungai Segget in 1860. The Maharaja appointed a European architect to draw up plans to build a grand palace and entrusted the task of building to Wong in 1864. He was still a young man and receiving such a major contract – the biggest construction job in its day – proved that Wong had progressed to the point where he could read complex architectural plans and carry out technical instructions. Building materials were brought in from various sources: ceramic tiles from Europe, marble from Italy, roof tiles from China, granite from Pulau Ubin and fired bricks from Singapore while fine hardwood timber from the Johor jungles was supplied by Meldrum’s sawmill. Construction was almost complete when the Maharaja instructed Wong to buy soft furnishings like silks, brocade, damasks and fine linen, for the palace from China. Wong, then 28 years old, felt it was time to take a wife so he also planned to return to his village for this. All the wedding arrangements were made with the family of his bride-to-be, but on his way home, he saw the devastation of war and how the dead laid where they had fallen. When Wong reached home, he made a decision to postpone his wedding and used the money he had saved up to bury the dead. With his future father-in-law’s consent, the wedding was postponed to a
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Portrait photo of Johor pioneer, Wong Fook Kee, better known as Wong Ah Fook or simply, Wong Fook
more auspicious date. Wong bought land dubbed the Wan’an Cemetery, and gave the dead proper burials. Wong then returned to Johor to complete the Istana Besar on schedule and on New Year’s Day 1866, it was officially opened. After saving enough money, he returned to Taishan to marry his bride, Chew Yew, and brought her to Singapore. In 1870, their eldest son, Siu Nam, was born. In 1892, Sultan Abu Bakar granted substantial blocks of land to Wong Ah Fook and Lim Ah Siang. Lim’s land was at Stulang while Wong’s land was called Jiu Soon Kang where his workshop was set up on Jalan Meldrum, the road leading to the steam sawmill. Three parallel roads adjacent to Jalan Meldrum were named after his older sons, Siu Nam, Siu Koon and Siu Chin. This area became known as Kampung Ah Fook. For 40 years, Wong was president of the Johor Bahru Kwong Siew Wai Kuan, the Cantonese clan association with its clan house at Jalan Siu Nam. This building now houses the Johor Bahru Kwong Siew Heritage Gallery. Further insights into Wong and his contributions to Johor’s early development is recorded in Wong Ah Fook - Immigrant, Builder and Entrepreneur (Times Editions 2002) and Johor – Local History, Local Landscapes 1855 to 1957 (Straits Times Press 2009), books by professional historian, Datin Patricia Lim Pui Huen, the greatgrand-daughter The Istana Besar or Grand Palace with a view of the impressive flight of Wong Ah Fook.
of steps that leads into the Throne Room
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Iskandar Investment Nurtures Talents for Creative Industry Interest
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Upskilling courses in hair styling and makeup for 25 participants
s the creative industry grows in tandem with the booming film industry in Johor, Isk andar Investment Berhad (IIB) recently sponsored 25 homemakers and post SPM students in two upskilling courses, in hair styling and stage makeup. Akademi Anggun Kasih, which has been accredited by the Jabatan Pembangunan Kemahiran, conducted the upskilling courses. Its trainer Hafizah Ibrahim has so far imparted her knowledge
to over 70 students from a few community and vocational colleges in Johor Bahru. “The highlight of our students’ involvement in the creative industry was when we prepared the stage makeup for the casts of Marco Polo (Season 1 and 2) at Pinewood Iskandar Malaysia Studios. Concurrently, we also work in close collaboration with Astro and have done various hair styling and stage makeup for their Johor productions,” said Hafizah. She is in the opinion that
Hair cutting techniques are handed down to trainees
Students learning how to create gunshot wound such soft skills are in demand since the opening of Pinewood Iskandar Malaysia Studios, which she sees as a catalyst in the creative industry. She welcomed the far-sighted initiative by IIB in preparing more professional talents for the behindthe-scenes workforce. “With more practice inside and beyond the studios’ makeup room, the students will only get better and soon will be able to find their unique identity,” she added. For Nur Faiqah Mohamed Rafi, 19, who enrolled in the five–day film make-up upskilling
course, she is looking forward to advancing to a higher certification after this eye opening experience. Currently excited and inspired by her new ability to create various moods and special effects that tested her passion, focus and creativity to a new limit, Faiqah now wishes to learn
more techniques. “I will enroll to get Sijil Kemahiran Malaysia certification to better my resume and hopefully gain more insights and guidance from the masters in the film industry. This new skill will give me potentially good income as there are many customers out there ranging from newly-weds to corporate diners, from film production casts to theatre staging artists, and the list goes on.” For IIB, more upskilling courses are in the pipeline to prepare a sizeable talent pool, suitable for industries currently operating in Iskandar Malaysia.
Students learning how to create burn effects
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Quick Reads
Premium
The brand’s third premium outlet in the world is now open at Komtar JBCC By Amin Khairuddin editor@theiskandarian.com
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ooks like things are booming down South, especially with the recent opening of the Casio G-Factory Premium Store at Komtar JBCC. This marks the third store of its kind in the world, and is the result of the partnership between the Valiram Group and Marco Corporation. “With the opening of the G-Factory Premium Store, we want to give our consumers in Malaysia a unique luxury shopping experience where they can look forward to the latest timepieces from Casio,” said Hiroyuki Sezai, Managing Director of Casio Malaysia. The G-Factory Premium store offers a wide range of toptier models and makes under the Casio Timepiece division, including the world’s first GPS Hybrid Wave
Ceptor watch, Oceanus as well as the popular Sheen and Edifice range of watches. “We are excited and honoured to be partnering with Marco Corporation and Casio Malaysia, the world’s leading manufacturer of consumer electronics, in bringing an exceptional store to Malaysia,” said Ashvin Valiram, Executive Director of the Valiram Group. The Valiram Group are the owners of the ‘Wear+When’ stores that offers a wide range of exquisite timepieces for locals and
Showing off bling; TV host Hunny Madu, Executive Director of Marco Corporation SJ Ong, Executive Director of Valiram Group, Ashvin Valiram, MD of Casio Malaysia Hiroyuki Sezai, and ‘Tauke’ JC Chee from the local hit movie ‘Ola Bola’ at the launch of the G Factory Premium Store at Komtar JBCC tourists alike. The launch was hosted by local TV personality, Deborah Henry and saw the presence of guest celebrities, Hunny Madu and the ‘Tauke’ himself, JC Chee from the movie ‘Ola Bola’. A special surprise awaited guests in the form of the legendary
“The Way of Flowers” with Ikebana International JB
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or three days, the concourse of Johor Bahru City Square was decorated with a showcase of artistic flower arrangements for the recent Annual Exhibition of Ikebana International Johor Baru (IIJB) chapter 235 themed, “The Way of Flowers.” From 8th to 10th April 2016, visitors to JB City Square had the pleasure of enjoying the art of Japanese flower arrangements presented in the Ikebana schools of Ohara, Sogetsu, Ikenobo and ShofuRyu. The exhibition, officially opened on 9th April 2016, was graced by Counsellor from the Embassy of Japan in Kuala Lumpur, Hiroyuki Orikasa, IIJB Charter President, Tunku Shahariah Abdul Rahman and distinguished guests from Kuala Lumpur and Singapore. Hiroyuk i commended members of IIJB for their efforts in preserving the art of Ikebana in Malaysia and hoped that “The Way of Flowers” would further advance mutual understanding between the two nations. The flower arrangements in the exhibition were presented by members of IIJB and friends from the Ikebana Singapore chapter as well as members from Ikebana International Club Taiwan chapter 105. Special guests for the event
The event was also an opportunity for Ikebana International JB members to celebrate the birthday of Charter President, Tunku Shahariah Abdul Rahman were a team from Taiwan led by Lansing Chen, past President of the Ikebana International Club Taiwan chapter 105 and practitioner of the Ikebana school of Shofu-Ryu. Chen, the founder of the Shofu-Ryu Ikebana Association in Taiwan, and her team presented an interesting demonstration of Ikebana arrangements in the school of Shofu-Ryu. This was the first time fans of Ikebana in Johor Bahru had the opportunity to appreciate the tradition of Shofu-Ryu Ikebana which advocates expression of Nature’s beauty with hardly any use of artificial material, in vivid colours, creativity and lively illustrations of the modern spirit. “I wish to thank the management of JB City Square, our
venue partner, for the use of their concourse to showcase the creative Ikebana arrangements by our members,” said IIJB President, Datin Ong Kid Ching, who was very glad that public visitors at the popular mall had a glimpse of the various disciplines in the art of Ikebana. IIJB members also took the opportunity to celebrate the birthday of Charter President, Tunku Shahariah Abdul Rahman, with a cake-cutting ceremony before a High Tea reception. Ikebana International JB membership is open to all who are interested in the Japanese art of flower arrangement. Visit Facebook page: http://www.facebook.com/ IkebanaJB for membership enquiries and info about IIJB chapter 235. - by Peggy Loh TI
Gold G Shock Concept model, a vision made into reality by the ‘Father of G Shock’ himself, Kikuo Ibe. The watch is not for sale, but serves as a homage to Casio’s first G-Shock, the DW-5000C. Casio G-Factory Premium store is located at Lot no. G-39, Ground floor, Komtar JBCC. TI
Replacement of Causeway The massive congestions at both Causeways is on everyone’s lips and recently Menteri Besar Johor Dato’ Mohamed Khaled Nordin said he supported the proposal from the Sultan of Johor, Sultan Ibrahim Ibni Sultan Iskandar to have the Causeway replaced to improve the condition in the Johor Straits and tackle the issue of congestion. Khaled did not explain what sort of route should be built to replace the Causeway and said that the matter concerns the federal government and Singapore government and it needs to be discussed at a bilateral level. Sultan Ibrahim was quoted in an English daily that he wanted all stakeholders to consider the idea of a bridge to replace the Causeway.
KPRJ Delivers 11 Religious Schools in Johor
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umpulan Prasarana Rakyat Johor (KPRJ) handed over the building for 11 Johor State Religious School (SAKJ) at a hand over ceremony in Sekolah Agama Lima Kedai, Gelang Patah, recently. The schools are a part of 77 abandoned SAKJ projects taken over by KPRJ. The project is a collaborative effort by Johor Islamic Religious Council, Johor Economic Planning Unit and KPRJ, who undertook the responsibility to complete and deliver the buildings in 18 months since receiving the project in October 2015. The project is scheduled to be fully completed by end of June, next year. To date, 21 schools are physically completed and ready for lessons, while 12 other are facing water supply issues and another 25 buildings are being equipped with electricity. KPRJ is looking to increase
the numbers significantly by the end of April. “We are targeting to physically complete 31 buildings, have 17 schools with water supply and 35 more with electricity supply by then,” said Abd Razak Mohd Yusoff, Chief Executive Officer of KPRJ. “The realisations of these schools are a testament to the state’s commitment in carrying the aspirations of its people and to increase the quality of religious schools in Johor,” he added. The hand-over ceremony was officiated by Johor Islamic Religious Committee chairman, Abd Mutalip Abd Rahim. Among the 11 schools that were involved with the handover were Sekolah Agama Lima Kedai, Sekolah Agama Sri Yong Peng, Sekolah Agama Parit Kasam, Tangkak and Sekolah Agama Parit Raja, Muar. - by Hakim Malik TI
Johor Islamic Religious Committee Chairman, Abd Mutalip Abd Rahim with Abd Razak Mohd Yusoff, CEO of KPRJ talking to the headmasters of the schools after the ceremony
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Cash Prizes Up for Grabs in Short Video Competition
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ince 1998, the Johor Lense Award has gathered an extensive collection of submission that features various types of arts including paintings, drawings, ceramic and carving works. An annual competition organised to highlight the state’s culture, tradition, arts and heritage, this year’s list was extended with the addition of the short video category to build on the collection of creative videos that showcases the Muafakat Johor and Bangsa Johor theme. While the short video competition was a continuation of last year’s multi themed photography competition, this year’s edition will
Interest
The Johor Lense Awards wants video submissions to highlight the state’s uniqueness and heritage focus more on the unique elements of Johor. Envisioned by Menteri Besar Dato’ Mohamed Khaled Nordin, the competition aims to attract and expose more talented youths to participate and showcase their creativity and innovation in visual arts. The competition is broken down into two categories, the creative
video category and the spontaneous video category which will feature the Bangsa Johor theme. With cash prizes worth up to RM70,000 for grabs, it’s bound to attract professionals and amateurs alike. Dato’ Haji Zulkarnain Haji Kamisan, Chairman of Johor State Youth, Sports, Culture and Heritage Committee was there to officially
Free Bus Rides T he free Bas Muafakat Johor inter-city bus services is aimed at easing traffic congestion in the Johor Bahru city centre as well as helping those who are young to save more. Menteri Besar Dato’ Mohamed Khaled Nordin said that in developed countries, using public transportation is a way of life for the young and old. “In places like London, New York, Moscow, Sydney, Tokyo and Singapore, public transportation is vastly used daily. I do not deny that our transportation system is not on par with these places in terms of efficiency, service network and sophistication but we have
to be heading in that direction. “With the rising cost of living, the young will get to save more of their income if they use public transportation to get to work. Instead of buying a car, they can save the money to buy a house. “The inter-city bus service can also reduce the number of cars in the city centre, and this will alleviate congestion,” Khaled said in his speech at the launch of the bus service which will have a fleet of 30 buses plying 15 service routes in four municipalities, namely Johor Bahru City Council, Johor Bahru Central Municipal Council, Pasir Gudang Municipal Council and Kulai Municipal Council.
Dato’ Haji Zulkarnain Haji Kamisan launching the competition launch the Johor Lense Award at Yayasan Warisan Johor. Final submissions should be delivered in the form of DVD to the Johor Lense Award secretariat at
Yayasan Warisan Johor, Jalan Petrie by 30th May 2016. For more information on the competition, do call the organisers at 07-2263266. - by Hakim Malik TI
imCoop Goes Global with My Outlets Highlight
Expanding over the seas to Singapore, China, Korea and Japan
imCoop Chief Executive Officer, Nor Hisham Hussein (second from left) with President of My Outlets Pte Ltd, Ronnie Tan during Memorandum of Cooperation (MoC) signing ceremony in imCoop HQ in i-Park, Kulai
K
* Image is for illustration only
operasi Iskandar Malaysia Berhad (imCoop) recently signed a Memorandum of Cooperation (MoC) with Singapore’s first global halal hub outlet, My Outlets Pte Ltd, crafting bigger plans to serve the rakyat of Johor. “Through this cooperation, it is an inaugural cross-border collaboration between imCoop and My Outlets Pte Ltd whereby products from imCoop will be exported through global market and products from Small and Medium Enterprises (SME) will receive vast and global marketability,” said President of My Outlets Pte Ltd, Ronnie Tan when interviewed. My Outlets Pte Ltd will buy most of the SME and halal products from imCoop and export to its outlets available in Singapore, Japan, Korea and China by maximising the product sales. “For now, products from imCoop are exported to Singapore, while in two years’ time, My Outlets will be focusing in
opening another outlet in China to manage the whole supply chain and provide halal products there,” he said. Established in 2014, imCoop has been serving the people of Johor by providing an alternative fair priced shop. There are now five outlets in Larkin, Pasir Gudang, Kulai, Setia Tropika and Paloh. “With our present outlets available around Johor, imCoop offers reasonable price for daily products and goods especially during the economic tough times. We have received a welcoming response from the public and currently targeting to open approximately 150 outlets by end of 2017,” said imCoop Chief Executive Officer, Nor Hisham Hussein. According to Nor Hisham, imCoop also offers e-commerce facilities whereby the public can shop their daily goods online and have it delivered at their doorstep, free of charge with a minimum spend of RM150 at www.imcoop.com.my - by Maressa Esa TI
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State’s First Urban Farming Programme
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enteri Besar Johor Dato’ Khaled Nordin recently launched the first project under the Iskandar Malaysia Urban Farming Development Centre (UFDC) at Jasa Apartments, Taman Mutiara Rini, adding that the crops produced from this facility will have great impact on the residents. He explained that it will ease the burdens of the people due to the rising cost of living. “This initiative is very meaningful especially for those who are from the lower income group.” “The savings that one can have when cultivating their own greens is something that will impact the people’s lives. This is one way that the
government is inclusive in its policies as it does not leave anyone behind,” said Khaled during the launch of Jasa Apartment’s UFDC. Built on a 0.6 hectare plot of land in the compounds of the apartment complex, the project utilises the social enterprise business model and will consist of two product categories, ‘Farm to Eat’ and ‘Farm to Sell’. According to Khaled, the produce from the UFDC will be sold and marketed through the Iskandar Malaysia Cooperative Bhd (imCoop) and Koperasi Pelaburan Kakitangan Bank Muamalat Malaysia (KOPUTRA) both in physical stores as well as online. Also present during the launch was Iskandar
Dato’ Khaled Nordin inspecting the hydroponic system at the Jasa Apartments Urban Farming Development Centre
Regional Development Authority’s (IRDA) Chief Executive Datuk Ismail Ibrahim as well as Johor Agriculture and Agro-based Industries Committee Chairman Ismail Mohamed. What began as a small cultivation plot by a few residents, now the Jasa Apartment UFDC project is helmed by Abdul Aziz Man with 20 other participants involved with the cultivation of several crops including spinach, chillies, sweet potato as well several other fruits and vegetables. The state government has allocated RM1million for urban farming facilities at four sites in the Iskandar region, namely Johor Bahru, Tebrau, Kulai and Pasir Gudang. - by Amin Khairuddin TI
Johor Police Take Steps to get Closer to the Community Highlight
Rewarding officers who go above and beyond the call of duty
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s a step to strengthen its bond with the local community as well as other authorities, the Royal Malaysian Police of Johor organised the inaugural Royal Malaysian Public Citizens Awards (RMPCA) at Holiday Villa Johor Bahru. Johor Police Chief Datuk Wan Ahmad Najmuddin officiated the event and said that the awards were aimed at improving the community’s perception of the police, in line with this year’s Police Day theme, which is “Polis dan Masyarakat Berpisah Tiada” (No separation between the Police and the community). “The research by Frost & Sullivan took place from 12th March until 7th April 2016 and involved 3,720 Johor Police officers, 2,940 civilians, 13 Johor Police district headquarters, 98 police stations, 67 police posts as well as 31 community
posts,” said Wan Ahmad. Several awards were presented to various officers during the ceremony, among them was the best police district award, which was given to Batu Pahat OCPD Asst Comm Din Ahmad who said his headquarters always worked with the people from his district, adding that it is important for the police to be easily approachable and cooperative with the public. Johor Deputy Police Chief Datuk Aishah Mohammad, who conceptualised the awards after the Iskandar Malaysia Social Hero Awards (IMSHA) was presented with a lifetime achievement award for her contributions to the force. The RMPCA was jointly organised by the Johor Women’s League (JEWEL), Frost & Sullivan and The Iskandarian. - by Amin Khairuddin & Hakim Malik TI
State Secretary Datuk Ismail Karim presenting the Johor Deputy Police Chief Datuk Aishah Mohammad a lifetime achievement award for her contributions to the force, with Johor Police Chief Datuk Wan Ahmad Najmuddin cheering in the background
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Women Empowerment Out Loud Highlight
Women play an important role for their families especially in health matters
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egency Specialist Hospital recently hosted ‘World Health Day and Happy Women Carnival 2016’ which was jointly organised by Regency and Johor Empowerment Intellectual Women Association (JEIWA). The celebration assisted professional women who had undergone abusive relationships as well as to raise public awareness on health care and prevention of chronic diseases, especially diabetes. “It is a very good initiative to as JEIWA is an organisation that gives such high commitment in educating the public on health matters and helps women in need by giving out counseling sessions and consultations with a hope that it can be extended to all,” said State EXCO for Health and Environment, Datuk Ayub Rahmat.
Ayub also mentioned that the Ministry has encountered a figure of more than 40% whom are potentially diabetic, mostly due to the exposure of unhealthy diet and lifestyle. The event also carried three important messages to the people which is to eat healthy food and exercise regularly to eliminate diseases, empowering women and families, along with sowing loving and caring values in children by sharing what they love to the needy and unfortunate children. “Women need to rise and be the agent of change in their own homes as studies have shown that they are directly related to their children especially in their diet. If you want to prevent diabetes or other diseases, it all starts at home in which women should have a good diet and therefore, the whole family is able to practise a good
State EXCO for Health and Environment, Datuk Ayub Rahmat (fourth from right) with Managing Director of Regency Specialist Hospital, Chin Wei Jia, and Chairperson of Regency World Health Day 2016, Dr. Sharifah Halimah Jaafar during the launching ceremony diet plan,” expressed Chairperson of Regency World Health Day 2016, Dr. Sharifah Halimah Jaafar. Throughout the event, Regency Specialist Hospital and JEIWA also extended a CSR project ‘My Teddy Bears from Me to You’
The Iskandar Malaysia Accolades (TIMA) Awards
give-away campaign in support of promoting charity and compassion. Six schools namely SKJ(C) Ming Terk, SK Taman Nusantara, SK Ladang Pendas, SK Medini, SK Tanjong Adang and SK Kampung Pulai had donated hundreds of
teddy bears and the beneficiaries were the Handicapped and Mentally Disabled Children’s Association of Johor, Persatuan Kanak-Kanak Autistik Islam Johor Bahru, and Rumah Mini Kanakkanak. - by Maressa Esa TI
Weaving Johorian Culture and Heritage Interest
Yayasan Warisan Johor introduced 10 new woven motives especially for Johorians
TIMA recognises most valued contributions to the quality of life in Iskandar Malaysia
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skandar Regional Development Authority (IRDA) announced an awards programme to recognise and reward real estate related projects and practices that are in line with Iskandar Malaysia’s vision, targets and objectives. Coined in 2014, ‘The Iskandar Malaysia Accolades’ or TIMA in short was made official during the Iskandar Malaysia Open Day (IMOD) 2016 by Menteri Besar Johor Dato’ Mohamed Khaled Nordin. The inaugural TIMA aspires to bring together IRDA’s subject matter experts with relevant government agencies, professional bodies and non-governmental organisations (NGOs). The accolades will be awarded to winners in categories such as ‘The Most Balanced Community’, ‘The Most Liveable Residence’, ‘The Most Conducive Workplace’, ‘The Most Happening Place’, The Most Impactful Investment’ and the ‘Most Relaxing Environment’. TIMA will look at awarding projects or practices that provide real value and positively impact the community and society at large. IRDA’s Chief Executive, Datuk Ismail Ibrahim said TIMA is different from other property awards that mainly look at the project itself or from the viewpoint of the developer.
Dato’ Zulkarnain Kamisan, Chairman of Johor State Youth, Sports, Culture and Heritage committee having a go at weaving in Yayasan Warisan Johor
“TIMA is not just confined to property projects but will include secondary property and existing residential areas, investment and infrastructure projects and even places of interest and of environmental significance,” said Ismail. He added that there is also a special award dubbed the ‘Value Champion’ to recognise an external stakeholder who champions IRDA’s values. TIMA winners will be decided by combining scoring from the TIMA Committee, a panel of independent judges and the public via social media. The accolades ceremony is poised to take place in November this year in conjunction with Iskandar Malaysia’s 10th year celebrations. - by Edey Suresh TI
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oven fabric or ‘Kain Tenun’ as it’s more commonly known has been a part of the state’s history and heritage, and now Yayasan Warisan (YWJ) Johor is taking the initiative to bring back this dwindling art form. Back in March 2012, His Royal Highness Sultan Ibrahim ibni Almarhum Sultan Iskandar had expressed the need to revive the art of weaving in the state. After years of research, YWJ with the help of experts like Dr. Siti Zainon Ismail and Dr. Norwani Nawawi of National
Design Centre UiTM Shah Alam, came up with 10 new woven motives, especially for Johorians. “ There are two classifications of motives created, which are the royal motives and rakyat motives,” said Dato’ Zulkarnain Kamisan, Chairman of Johor State Youth, Sports, Culture and Heritage committee adding that the motives are going to be patented in the near future. Among the motives are Jauhar, Medini and Tengku Mahkota for the royals and Tanjung Piai for the rakyat. “The ten motives are
symbolic to the notion of diversity and how they are united as one which is Bangsa Johor,” he continued, adding that songket weaving can be an identity of a district and how it can be monetised. He was speaking at the pre-launch and press conference for the Johor Weaving workshop in Yayasan Warisan Johor Complex, recently. The gallery and workshop began operations from February this year, employing two weavers as part of the effort in exposing the community to Johor’s weaving and its application. by Hakim Malik TI
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MAY 2016
iNSIDE
es YUNA announc um third studio alb ‘Chapters’
Eco BnB: A Quiet Retreat
+ THE ANGRY BIRDS MOVIE +
MAY 2016 | Page 2
editor’s H note
ow does it feel to be back at work after a long weekend because of Labour Day break? Alas, a holiday never lasts but reality does. May is jam-packed with a lot of events from Mothers’ Day celebration to various fun and charitable programmes. Our Calendar of Events should help you plan accordingly. Malaysian singer/songwriter sensation, Yuna, is back with her third studio album – Chapters. You’d definitely want to get your hands on that album which will release on the 20th of May. Former Nickelodeon star Ariana Grande is also releasing her third album this
month. Clad in a leather bunny outfit, the single is aptly titled Dangerous Woman. Still in-line with our Eco-Tourism, we bring you something closer to home which is the Eco BnB at Setia Tropika. This B&B is not your regular bed and breakfast as its run to help raise funds for the street cats and dogs in Setia Tropika as well as in Woodlands, Singapore. So it’s worth checking it out for your next weekend getaway. Peggy goes all authentic at Nelly’s Café located at Plaza Angsana for some local fix. As for you movie buffs, look out as The Angry Birds Movie is coming your way real soon this month.
MUSIC UPDATES
Priya Manikam waves.lifestyle@gmail.com
Universal Music Singapore
M
Yuna Announces Third Studio Album – Chapters
alaysian singersongwriter, Yuna, has announced that her highly anticipated third studio album, “Chapters”, will be released on 20th May 2016 on Verve Records. The first track off the album, “Places To Go”, produced by DJ Premier can be listened at The FADER. ‘’Places to Go’’ is a song about when you’re growing into the person that you’re meant to be. Sometimes you go through all these things that will change you as a person and you find it hard to deal with all of these challenges,” Yuna told The FADER. “I was truly honoured to work with legendary DJ and producer DJ Premier. I still can’t believe I have a track with Premier, it really is one of the best songs I’ve written in a long time.” Y u n a ’s beautifully constructed third studio album further showcases her contemporary pop, acoustic folk and soulful R&B sounds, which have won her comparisons with the likes of Feist, Adele, and Norah
Jones. “Chapters” follows her 2013 album, Nocturnal. In addition to announcing “Chapters”, Yuna was excited to share the news of her spring tour, which kicked off on 29th April 2016 in Washington, D.C. The charismatic star has received accolades from the likes of Billboard, NPR, Elle, NY Times, Vibe, Marie Claire and more. She has also performed highprofile sets at the Lollapalooza and Bonnaroo festivals and has appeared on Jimmy Kimmel Live!, Conan and Last Call with Carson Daly.
Standard CD & Digital Album Tracklist: 1. Mannequin (3:34) 2. Lanes (3:13) 3. Crush featuring usher (4:02) 4. Unrequited love (4:07) 5. Best love (4:49) 6. Used to love you featuring jhené aiko (3:29) 7. Too close (4:12) 8. Best of me (3:52) 9. Your love (4:37) All i do (3:34) 10. Deluxe Digital Tracklist (Additional): 1. Places to go (3:33) 2. Poor heart (4:15) 3. Time (3:26)
Ariana Grande - A Cappella - Dangerous Woman Ariana Grande will release a cappella Dangerous Woman
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riana Grande treated fans to another version of her new single Dangerous Woman, off the upcoming album of the same name. The singer performed a cappella take on the sultry, guitarheavy track. Wearing the leather bunny outfit she sports on the album's cover art, Grande belts out the cinematic track, scatting the guitar solo while playing air guitar before laughing at her own expense. She ends the clip to applause before running off the set.
Dangerous Woman, to be released on 20th May 2016 is the former Nickelodeon star's third album. Harper ’s BAZAAR quoted Ariana as “… Incredible … Clad in a sultry leather bustier, matching gloves and Playboy-meetsCatwoman bunny ears, Grande casually paces while singing the tune, alternating between her strong belt and smooth riffs … prepare for goosebumps.”
In this movie, we’ll find out why the birds are so angry! 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.The Iskandarian wishes all hardworking souls out there a very Happy Labour Day, Happy Mothers’ Day to all the wonderful mothers out there and Happy Vesak Day to all celebrants!
Priya .
The Iskandarian | WAVES Lifestyle
MAY 2016 | Page 3
The Iskandarian | WAVES Lifestyle
The Beauty of Feeling Lost – Part 1
O Personal Motivator & Energy Coach yourpersonalmotivator BucketOfRoses
ne afternoon I wore a casual t-shirt captioned ‘New York. The Perfect Place to Get Lost Together’. The irony was, I wore it on the day I had a coaching session with a client. Most people would avoid any negative statement during motivational coaching, but I consciously chose that particular t-shirt for a reason. All of us has our New York moments in life. Sometimes, we feel lost about our Self or our Life. Sometimes we feel it in the period of grief. To feel lost is inevitable and it comes with emotional suffering. Although the feeling
is painful, it usually offers us gifts and clarity in our journey. It’s beautiful if we understand the purpose of feeling lost. Here are the reasons why feeling lost is actually good for us: It’s a sign that we are on the wrong path Have you ever driven to a new place without using the map or GPS? And even if you rely on the signboards, chances of you getting lost is likely there (have you tried Putrajaya?). What will you do when you feel lost? Most of us will stop at the roadside and figure out the right path to the destination.
We do the same in our lives. When we lose our inner direction, we stop and search for the right direction. In moments like this, our minds become aware of what we need. The mind that usually operates on auto-pilot, suddenly become active in searching for directions. We then ask questions about our Life. And that drives our focus to change too. Life suddenly becomes happening in many aspects. Being lost tells us that we need to shift our causes. If feeling lost doesn’t exist, how do we know if the path we are taking is the right way for us?
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.
MOVIES The Angry Birds Movie
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n this 3D animated comedy, we'll finally find out why the birds are so angry! The movie takes us to an island populated entirely by happy, flightless birds – or almost entirely. In this paradise, Red (Jason Sudeikis, We're the Millers, Horrible Bosses), a bird with a temper problem,
Genre: Animation Release date: 12th May 2016 Voice Cast: Jason Sudeikis, Josh Gad, Danny McBride, Maya Rudolph Kate McKinnon, Bill Hader, Peter Dinklage Directors: Fergal Reilly and Clay Kaytis Producer: John Cohen & Catherine Winder
Source: Sony Pictures Malaysia
speedy Chuck (Josh Gad in his first animated role since Frozen), and the volatile Bomb (Danny McBride, This is the End, Eastbound and Down) have always been outsiders. But when the island is visited by mysterious green piggies, it’s up to these unlikely outcasts to figure out what the pigs are up to.
MAY 2016 | Page 4
The Iskandarian | WAVES Lifestyle
travel
go local The Ballad Room gives an enchanted forest vibe to any visitor
Swinging Beds and Scrumptious Waffles!
A quiet retreat away from the city at Eco BnB Eco BnB’s font desk is littered with titbits and trinkets for guests to check out
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By Amin Khairuddin waves.lifestyle@gmail.com
idden away in Setia Tropika, Johor Bahru lies the quaint and simple Eco Bed And Breakfast. An alternative take to boutique homestays, Eco BnB is located within a gated and guarded neighbourhood and easily accessible via the EDL highway, providing a balance of security and accessibility for any guest. Founded by three close friends, Eco BnB aims to awaken the eco-consciousness in
The Duet Room with its twin rocking beds
every traveller and being a social enterprise, allows them to bend the mind and surprise the senses with its crafted furniture and vegetarian breakfast as an effort to educate guests that they can be environmentally friendly too. Believing that the progress of society is reflected in the way she treats animals, Eco BnB helps to raise funds for stray cats and dogs in Setia Tropika, JB as well as in Woodlands, Singapore. Five different rooms are available for guests, with the biggest room being the Symphony; which has a king sized rocking bed with two solid single beds ready for up to eight guests. A worthy note is the fact that all of the rocking beds are custom made, and will definitely give you a different sleeping experience. If you’re a romantic couple wanting a quiet getaway, book the Lullaby room with its circular swing bed that will swing lazily, whisking you both to sleep soundly. If you’re not into the rocking bed idea, you can stay in their other rooms which feature normal beds, but our pick is the Ballad room, with a pair of
forest themed beds that’s nice for any picture perfect moment. Each room comes with an attached bathroom and comes equipped with a hairdryer, body wash, shampoo and fresh towels. A nice
little touch is the Labu Sayong that keeps the water cool for you to drink anytime of the day. The common area allows you to enjoy the comforts of handmade furniture made out of recycled wood pellets from local sources. For breakfast, you’ll enjoy a wholesome organic Belgian waffles, with juice, local Liberico coffee to perk you up and a healthy serving of local fruits to charge up for your day ahead. All rooms come with a locker to keep your valuables safe and there are abundant of CCTV cameras for added surveillance. WiFi is available, and smoking is only allowed outside at the smoking corner. Another note is they don’t allow alcohol on the premises; this is to show consideration to other guests. Room rates starts as low as RM119 for the Balled room and RM169 for the Sonata Room (Price per pax inclusive of breakfast). For more info, logon to http:// www.ecobnbjohorbahru.com/ or call Keith Lee at 019 7130049.
The king sized rocking bed that comes with the Sonata Room
Calendar of Events 1st May Labour Day and Tanjung Balau Festival 2016
JB, 1st – 3rd On-going Sail Malaysia Passage to the East
Spore, 1st – 18th Singapore Heritagefest 2016
JB, 6th May LEGO Star Wars MOC Contest @ LEGOLAND Malaysia
JB, 7th May Food & Fun Charity @Persatuan Cerebral Palsy, JB
JB, 7th – 8th May 1Malaysia Motocross & Cubcross Championship @Near LHDN, JB
8th May Mother’s Day
Spore, 12th – 15th May Savour @Singapore
JB, 12th – 15th May JB Writers & Readers Festival @ Mall of Medini
JB, 14th May Iskandar Pulai Springs Charity Fun Run 2016 @Pulai Springs Resort
JB, 20th May Johor Furniture Fair @Persada Johor
21st May Vesak Day
JB, 21st May Kulim Kota Tinggi MTB Jamboree @Kulim Eco-Trail Retreat
Spore, 27th May – July Great Singapore Sales *TBC
JB, 27th – 29th May Yok Medini @Mall of Medini
JB, 28th May Care United JB Dinner & Dance @ Pulai Springs Resort and Run For Southern 2016 @Educity
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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Giving Up Custody After Divorce Mothers Who Gave Up Custody Women are naturally the caretaker of their children. Therefore, giving up custody to the ex-husband when the marriage is over can be controversial. Negative stigma from the society to these mothers usually surround on them being the ‘bad mothers’, selfish, heartless and career oriented. Traditionally, it’s much easier for women to obtain custody because of their nature of being more patient and loving in handling the children. According to Syariah law, custody rights are suitable under the mother or maternal grandmother. A hadith stated that Prophet Muhammad once said to a divorced wife, “You have the first right to look after (your child) unless you re-marry”. This shouldn’t be misinterpreted that the women loses her rights of the child, but the father and mother will have equal rights for the child’s custody. This article will reveal the pain and suffering of two women who lost their custody to former husbands. Best interest for her children Karina left her house without her three children. After discussions from both parties, they agreed for a temporary separation with a hope that her abusive husband would change. At that time, she thought no one would have the heart to separate a mother from her children. But she was crushed when her in laws made her wait for five hours and she was not even allowed to see the children. Heartbroken and tearful, she left and made a promise that
she would change her destiny. Karina was jobless and homeless. She knew she was not in a suitable position to raise her children. Her children were seven, five and three years old then. Karina was mentally and physically abused by her then husband. She could bear
the physical pain but not emotionally. Later she was forced to give up custody in order to get a divorce from her husband. She could never forget the heartbreaking scene when her children cried calling “Mama”. The children are now under the care of her ex-husband and his current wife. Currently, Karina works hard and is doing a part time business to stabilise her financial status. “Never leave your children even at first instances, because the ex-spouse’s family can portray you as an irresponsible mother,” said Karina. When asked of her chance in regaining custody of her three children, Karina said with hopefulness, “Be patient and have faith.” She believes that one day she will have her children back in her arms again.
Driven by her daughter’s absence Fadilah Nizar was physically abused by her ex-husband which had caused her a permanent injury. She had suffered financial and emotional abuse during the four years of marriage and had insisted on a divorce which went on dragging for over eight months due to lack of cooperation from her then husband. Finally he agreed for the divorce but with two conditions. Firstly, he demanded Fadilah to pay him RM350,000. Secondly, she had to give up the custody of her then three and a half years old daughter. Desperate to escape the abusive marriage, she agreed. Since then, she would travel frequently from Johor Bahru to Seremban to visit her daughter. After securing a promising job in a corporate company, Fadilah used her experience in escaping a bad relationship to assist many women of similar situation. She started an NGO specifically for professional women called Johor Empowering Intellectual Women Association (JEIWA). Meantime, her ex-husband was finally convicted for the crime he committed to her back in 2013. He was sentenced to jail and was fined RM10,000 for causing grevious hurt to her. “Focus” was her motto which drove her to achieve her mission in helping other unfortunate women, though deep in her heart she wished she had her daughter close to her. Sometimes, during her battle for other women, she would shed tears for missing her daughter. She is now happy with the justice that she waited for many years
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. and will fight to get her daughter back into her custody. Many women have different reasons of giving up custody resulting in limited rights to their own children. Tears and loneliness are no longer stranger to them. Despite the obstacles to regain custody, they remain strong and never gave up. They are driven by love and maternal instinct. Women like Karina and Fadilah learnt that they have the strength and ability to deal with fears that they never knew existed. May future behold for Karina and Fadilah to reunite with their children and celebrate Mother’s Day in following years.
Hearing voices in your head? Get to know Schizophrenia
The Scenario It’s 3 am and the sudden shattering of glass is heard. A solitary note to break the silence, but a rude awakening nonetheless. When the matron of the house gets up to check the rooms, she finds her only son J, a gentleman in his early 20s, in the living room with a suspicious and fearful look on his face. Across the hall, the television set is off the wall and on the ground, with its screen broken. As his mother approaches him, J starts to mumble incoherently initially, before screaming obscenities as if to someone next to him. The lady starts to cry, as this is not the first occurrence. Several traditional measures had been tried and tested, but to no avail. J’s father, who had just caught up on the scene, calls the police and J who put up a little struggle, is escorted to the hospital. Schizophrenia The above describes a person with schizophrenia. In the literal sense, the term comes from the Greek ‘schizo’ (split) and ‘phrene’ (mind). Doctors in psychiatry will explain that schizophrenia refers to splitting of the mind, or as practised in Hospital Permai, Johor Bahru, a disease of the mind due to chemical imbalances in the brain. This imbalance leads to a myriad of features including the classical auditory hallucinations, ideas of reference and delusions of persecution, among others. It is important to note that the majority of persons with
schizophrenia are not aware they are having any form of mental illness. In order to manage this illness, a detailed history is required from the immediate family members. This is because the above mentioned symptoms could occur as part of a medical condition or the use of illicit substances. A good history, as well as physical examination and the appropriate investigations (blood tests, radiology etc.) would go a long way in ruling out other causes before coming to the diagnosis of schizophrenia. Once this is established, regular medication (those that would help stabilise the chemical imbalance) and follow- up at the clinic or home visits by the community team are essential. Admission to the hospital is only an option if the person is too disruptive at home or having a high risk for suicide. Written by: Dr Viknesh Naidu, M.B.B.S. is a medical officer in Hospital Permai, Johor Bahru. Upon graduating from Melaka-Manipal Medical College, he cut short his professional tenure at Hospital Sultanah Aminah, Johor Bahru for 2 years before embarking on a special journey in Psychiatry. With more than 4 years’ experience in mental health, it isn’t hard for him to tell if a person is more than off his or her proverbial rocker.
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English College converts decommissioned bus into a mini library
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tudents of Maktab Sultan Abu Bakar (English College) Johor Bahru received a surprise new addition in the school recently with the completion of the Mini Library. Situated near Dewan Sri Budiman, the library is a repurposed decommissioned bus, obtained from Jabatan Pelajaran Johor. Headmaster, Samsudin Md. Ariff, had a dream to see the school with a new library closer to the students, as opposed to the current library that is situated too far away from the classroom before he retires this year. “The aim was to build a library, closer to the students where they can utilise it while waiting for their parents in a safe and comfortable environment,” said Samsudin, adding that further additions to the library such as an air conditioned reading area adjoining the bus is still in the planning stage. Koperasi Bekas Pelajar EC Johor Bahru Bhd. (EC Corp.) was commissioned to transform the bus into an air conditioned library. The RM40,000 project commenced earlier this year, with the school working
The EC Mini Library focuses more on career development reading materials together with the ex-students’ community to raise the funds needed. The initiative has attracted a number of corporate sponsors to join the effort in realising it. “ We are thankful to individuals and corporate entities that have helped in realising the headmaster’s dream and I believe this initiative will help instill reading habits among the students,” said Abdul Halim Mohd. Amin, Treasurer of EC Corp.
“ We have the names of donators and contributors adorning the sides of the library to commemorate their deeds,” he added. The mini library focuses more on career developments; with reading materials ranging from self-help books to career guidance materials which were sourced from the National Library. It can fit 15 to 20 students at one time. - by Hakim Malik TI
From One Parent to Another: Clarity in the Chaos
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’m a father of a 1 year old boy and like all responsible parents, my wife and I started the conversation about how we should educate our child. Looking at all the options, schools and systems, I thought one word - “Chaos”! Where do we begin and how should our children be educated? Advertisements these days are full of schools with extravagant facilities and pretty pictures. But do big football fields and Olympicsize swimming pools educate children? The veneer looks good but aren’t there more? How about fancy hardware like tablets and laptops? No. That can’t be it either. How about teachers and where they come from? Superficially that held promise, but does that mean that the ability to educate my son is restricted to individuals from certain countries? Surely not! I’ve observed that the best teachers and mentors hail from all walks of life; from humble “Kampung” beginnings to fancy foreign private schools. Interestingly, their most valuable lessons did not come from their knowledge of the subject(s) taught but
from the wisdom and skills they impart. Skills like teamwork or organisation, wisdom which will allow my son to integrate knowledge, experience and a deep understanding that incorporates tolerance for the uncertainties of life including its ups and downs. Not to jump into conclusions, but to calmly approach any situation knowing that everything will play out over time, and to see the bigger picture. What would I pay for my son to grow into an educated man, brimming with skills and wisdom? What about education systems? How different are all these systems, really? They typically vary by what is taught, whether we teach one aspect of history or leave out another. Do I want my son to learn the Malaysian, British or Australian history? Surely that cannot be the answer. How do schools vary? Often from aligning themselves along geographical affiliations, the differences are typically the size of the school, teachers’ nationalities, students’ nationalities, extracurricular activities and of course,
Students rising to victory swimming pool sizes. Aren’t there more? Almost every education system pays lip service to skills and value education but when we look at how they demonstrate value in their assessments, exams and certificates, there is little to mention. Enter the International Baccalaureate (IB); a revolutionary system that has changed the way we look at education forever. Finally, a programme that does not affiliate itself with ever-
changing national agendas but rather one that focuses on the “how” of learning. Skills and values are paid equal importance in their assessment as knowledge acquisition. An IB student is assessed (examined) on not just their history facts but how to analyse the situational context, work in a team and their ability to consider the ethical perspectives. What would you pay for that kind of education? This article is the first of a 6-part series on education. More
exciting articles to come! Dr Vincent Chian is currently the Principal of Fairview International School Kuala Lumpur. A former medical doctor working in psychiatry he now spends his time championing emotional and effective development in education. Fairview International School Johor Bahru campus is located at Bandar Dato Onn. For more information, visit www. fairview.edu.my and call 07- 364 3378 or email to: enquiries_ jb@ fairview.edu.my
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Safety Practices at Pengerang for Students
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ohor Petroleum Development Corporation ( JPDC ) in collaboration with the Road Safety Department of Malaysia (JKJR) recently organised a Road Safety briefing and exhibition at SK Pengerang. The programme is under the Pengerang Road Safety Programme 2016, which aims to educate primary school students in Pengerang about road safety as a step to reduce road accidents in the area. A total of 200 students from 10 schools in Pengerang participated in the programme. Exhibitions on that day included, the use of seat belts, educating them about traffic and road signs as well as a road
Responsible
Educating children with road safety practices safety briefing session by JKRJ. “The implementation of the Road Safety Programme in 2016 is a joint effort by JPDC Pengerang with the parties involved to enhance the awareness of road safety, especially among locals in Pengerang, contractors and investors in PIPC,” said Mohd Yazid Jaafar, Chairman Executive Johor Petroleum Development Corporation (JPDC). Among the activities that
will be implemented this year through the Pengerang Road Safety Programme 2016 are free vehicle inspection, exchange of helmets with SIRIM standards, demonstration of the use of seat belts and child safety seat use for children. There will also be refresher courses on road laws and effective driving skills, road safety audit by the Institute of Road Safety Research (MIROS). “My friends and I understand
A student briefed on wearing a safety helmet the right way by a JKJR official at the programme road safety better after attending the programme today and the briefing on how to cross the road safely will
help me when I walk to school,” said Hafizul Azizam, a year five student of SK Punggai. - by Hakim Malik TI
English Carnival Instills Language in Pupils Excellence
SKBU2 won the Skudai zone English Carnival choral speaking competition
The Champions: SKBU2 choral speaking team will represent Skudai zone at the upcoming district level competition
Happenings
Learn
Recap
Sharing with you the happenings from last month
Fairview International School Johor Bahru Open Day at My Library
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he annual English Language Carnival is a platform created to encourage and increase the use of English language at primary school level. Among the competitions competed in the carnival each year include scrabble, storytelling, choral speaking, and action song. This year, SK Bandar Uda 2 (SKBU2) had the honour to be the host for Skudai Zone Choral Speaking competition. Organised by Johor Bahru District Education Office (PPD), the carnival involved all 24 schools in the Skudai zone. 12 schools participated in the competition including SKBU2, SK Kompleks Uda, SJK (C) Thorburn, SK Taman Universiti 1, SK Sri Skudai and SJK (C) Kuo Kuang. Each team consisted of 30 to 35 standard four to six pupils, and they were required to perform a five to eight minutes script while being
judged by a panel of adjudicators. “Commendable performances by all 12 teams had impressed the judges with their enunciation, diction and presentation,” said Vincent D’ Silva, Chairman of the Johor English Language Teaching Association adding that children needs to be exposed to more English activities outside of the classroom and this competition provided that platform. “The winner won by a considerably small margin since everybody did an outstanding job,” he added referring to the quality of participations this year. SKBU2 emerged as the winner of the day, while SJK (C) Kuo Kuang and SJK (C) Thorburn came in second and third respectively. The champion will represent Skudai zone in the district level competition this coming May. - by Hakim Malik TI
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Malaysia’s Retailers Look to Rebound By:
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alaysian retailers are looking to overcome the effects of a weaker ringgit and the introduction of a goods and services tax (GST) last year in the hopes of stronger sales in 2016. Modest expectations for the early part of 2016 come on the heels of subdued sales growth last year – which saw turnover rise by just 1.4% to RM96.2bn ($24.7bn), as per figures from consultancy firm Retail Group Malaysia (RGM) – marking the industry’s worst performance since 2010. The sector was expected to post a 0.4% year-on-year decline in sales in the first quarter of 2016, according to the Malaysia Retail Chain Association (MRCA). Retailers see more positive full-year prospects, however, with RGM predicting 4% growth in the sector, which is in line with the 4-4.5% growth in GDP forecast by the central bank, Bank Negara Malaysia (BNM). Looking ahead While some stakeholders are still seeing reduced sales a year after the April 2015 launch of the broad-based 6% GST, the MRCA predicts a 10% overall increase this year as confidence grows and the impact of the tax is factored in. Deeper market penetration via e-commerce is also expected to spur on growth. “Besides consumers’ getting familiar with the GST, increased awareness about e-commerce is also expected to help spur the country’s retail sector further this year,” Liaw Choon Liang, president of the MRCA, told local media in March. E-commerce accounts for a relatively small share of sector sales, according to a report by management consultancy firm AT Kearney, with turnover of just $1.3bn annually, though sales are on the rise. Malaysia and ASEAN countries – Indonesia, Thailand, Vietnam, Philippines and Singapore – could see e-commerce sales increase by up to 25% per annum in the coming years, with Malaysia’s online retail segment on track to reach $10bn15bn in sales over the long term, AT Kearney noted. “We believe there are still plenty of opportunities. E-commerce is the future. We encourage retailers to look seriously into this segment,” said Liaw. According to a 2013 survey by research firm Ipsos, travel services, such
as flights and accommodations, online coupons and entertainment products like movie tickets are among the most popular goods purchased by the roughly 7m online shoppers in Malaysia. Road to recovery While the future of retail may be online, it will likely take time before both consumers and retailers fully embrace the new platform and the growth it is expected to bring. In the near term, several economic factors could continue to impact retail growth. Depreciation of the ringgit, which dipped 19% against the US dollar last year, pushed up the costs of imports, including raw materials, semi-finished and finished goods, in 2015. This fed into inflation, which reached 2.7% year-on-year in December 2015. Looking ahead, BNM expects inflation to peak in the first quarter of 2016 before moderating later in the year on lower energy and commodity prices. The ringgit has gained ground in early 2016, however, appreciating by 11% against the dollar in the first three months of the year. Further recovery of the currency could see import costs ease and domestic purchasing power rebound, potentially boosting sales. Nonetheless, retail turnover could still be impacted by relatively high debt levels in the country. Around 68% of Malaysians are in debt, according to a study conducted by insurer Manulife, with living expenses cited by 60% of respondents as the highest contributor. The country has one of the highest household debt-to-GDP ratios in Asia, ratings agency Fitch noted, rising from 86.8% in 2014 to 89.1% at the end of 2015, as per BNM data. The impact of household debt on spending patterns could take some time to subside, with Manulife reporting onequarter of those in debt did not expect to be able to pay off their loans for three or more years. While this will likely rein in consumer spending, if inflation falls back from the 4.2% posted in February – a seven-year high – and the ringgit appreciates further, buyer sentiment could rebound from 2015 lows. This Malaysia economic update was produced by Oxford Business Group.
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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
Opportunities for the Prepared – Part Two
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hile March appeared to be a calmer month for the global stock market, we’ve started seeing a bit of sunshine in April. Firstly, after forming a third bottom at 15515, the Dow Jones Industrial Index quickly recovered by showing a V-shape pattern and standing above 17500 as at 6th April 2016. The second largest economy (China) has seen Shanghai Composite breaking the MA50 line, showing stability and gaining control in the medium term. Domestically, Malaysia’s market sentiment has improved evidently after billions of foreign funds flowed into the Malaysian equity market and the Composite Index has broken above the 1700 psychological level. This is even reinforced by the strengthened Ringgit below RM4 against the dollar coupled with the firmer oil price hovering between $3740 per barrel. Technically, we are already in the bull market since March, as the FBM KLCI has stood above the MA200 level. The last time it stood above this level was a year ago. Sector wise, we’ve seen Construction an obvious mover. This is correlated to the recent award of mega projects by the government, such as KVMRT2, Pan Borneo Highway, LRT3, to name a few. With the above favourable scenarios, KLCI managed to gain 26 points (or 1.5%) compared to three weeks ago. Has our portfolio performed better, too?
Their First Child – Part One
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 ‘Gaining Financial Independence through Share Investment’ on 22nd May 2016. Collect this article to exchange a ticket worth RM20 for FREE. Reach his team at contact@ teybinyuen.com
Other Counters Update 1) AirAsia On 31st Mar 2016, AirAsia proposed a private placement of 559 million shares to its two cofounders and major shareholders Tan Sri Tony Fernandes and Datuk Kamarudin Meranun. The issuance of the new shares would raise about RM1bil at the issuance price of RM1.80 per share.For the two main shareholders to fork out one billion cash to inject into the company itself is showing a confidence call and it implies that AirAsia has a very bright prospect ahead. 2) Export Oriented Companies If you noticed, you’d see the export companies’ share prices are very sensitive to the USD. If the Ringgit strengthened, the export stocks will fall, and vice-versa. However, we’ve
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.
Added Gadang We’ve added 5000 more shares of Gadang as the time is right. With the construction sector moving in accordance with the mega projects awarded lately, Gadang is poised to be one of the benefactors. Secondly, Gadang has pretty attractive valuation from its earning perspective. With its earnings per share (eps) of RM0.28 in 2015, Gadang is having a PE ratio of 7.6. In addition, in the quarterly report released last quarter, the management mentioned that they are expecting a better performance in 2016. With entry price of RM2.10 per share, we’ve used RM10,500.00 and we’ve left with RM1870.00. As at 6th April 2016, our total gain is 17% since the inception of our portfolio in November 2015.
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seen recently that even if the Ringgit has strengthened to RM3.88, many export stocks, such as Heveaboard and Supermax did not continue to fall. Moreover, many investors have started buying export stocks at critical support level, which explains why, when the Ringgit is at 4.11, Supermax is trading at RM2.60; when Ringgit is 3.88, Supermax is still trading at RM2.60, too. Same goes to Heveaboard. This implies that investors have started seeing value in these companies. It’d be interesting to see how the market would be when these companies sustain their earnings in the future. Conclusion Let’s keep watching, because at the end, it’s the companies with sound earnings that will survive and thrive. Time will tell. TI
I
n the last issue, we saw how Adam and Aida working out their budget to own their first home. Now we’ll look at another huge commitment that comes with even a greater responsibility – that bundle of joy! After saving for almost a year, Adam and Aida have finally saved enough for the down payment of their dream home. They have already set eyes on a particular piece of property which is a freehold double-storey home - an old house but very wellmaintained. What really attracted them was the close proximity to Adam’s parents’ home. Besides, there’s also a hypermarket, a school, hospital, a playground and shops located nearby. The owner originally asked for RM350,000 but after much negotiation and bargaining, they finally settled at RM325,000. They paid RM25,000 as down payment and took out a loan for RM300,000 for 30 years. As Aida is working in a bank, she was able to arrange a staff loan facility at a mere 3% p.a. which works out to a monthly repayment of only RM1,300 instead of the initial budgeted amount of RM2,000. With a home of their own comes along additional expenses such as utility bills, quit rent, property assessment, home insurance, occasional maintenance and repairs. In addition to those expenses, Adam and Aida now have also created a liability for themselves in the process of financing it through a home loan. In essence, they do not own the home until they finish paying off the loan. Meanwhile, it would be wise for them to cover that liability with insurance should something unfortunate happen to either of them. Most often, banks would recommend taking out a Mortgage Reducing Term Assurance (MRTA) which may be the most affordable option. However, we can also top up on our personal life insurance coverage to cover for such liability. Adam and Aida decided to increase their personal insurance coverage by RM150,000 each as this would
give them greater control and flexibility. Bearing all this in mind, they felt it was necessary to re-look at their budget. From their revised budget, they were pleasantly surprised that they were still able to have a surplus. Now that they have their own house and after much hinting from their parents too, they felt it’s time to start a family. All this while, they were unsure if they can afford to start a family, but after having reviewed their budget, they felt that they could manage. Adam was a little hesitant at first because he came across an advertisement that said it can cost a million Ringgit to raise a kid nowadays! Being an accountant, he knows the math but also realises that children are God’s gift. Moreover, they are both prepared to start a new family. TI
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Juicy Juices
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Refreshing and healthy cold-pressed juices in JB
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Juice Mania currently offers five flavours of cold-pressed juice
E
ver thought of quenching your thirst and stay healthy at the same time during the scorching hot weather? Get cold-pressed juices and you don’t have to worry about sugar levels and preservative contents but taste only the fresh pulpy rich juice. In this issue, The Iskandarian ventured to some local homemade cold-pressed juice brands around JB and found several for your taste buds namely Juice Mania, Friends & Fig, and Hey! Juice by Ink N’ Water. Juice Mania currently offers five flavours of cold-pressed 3 juices namely ‘Dazzling’, ‘Breeze’, and ‘Elegant’ alongside their bestselling, ‘Meadow’ and ‘Tropical’ which are priced at RM13.50 per bottle. We recommend drinking ‘Tropical’ for a refreshing and sweet-n-sour experience that comes from the pineapplebased texture mixed with watermelon, lemon, and chia seeds. Feeling lazy to head down the stores? Fret not because Juice Mania offers a delivery option and you can get discounts for the 5 different flavours per week at a price of RM60, delivered to your door step. If you are on café hopping in town, head to the steampunk ambience of Ink N Water Cafe at Taman Pelangi for a wide selection of dishes, and team up with Hey! Juice, that comes in four different flavours priced at RM14.90 per bottle.
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Keep in mind that Hey! Juice range is apple-based, therefore, expect a bit of sourly feel at the end of the taste. If you want something sweet, go for their chilled ‘Wanderlust’ flavour which is a mixture of apple, tomato, and carrot. As for the health conscious group, we have one special juice brand specifically for detoxification and diet plan package by Friends & Fig at Jalan Lumba Kuda. Its juices come in either vegetable or fruit based, and is designed by UK Complementary Medical Association qualified Natural Juice Therapist and comprises of eight different products to serve you therapeutic health benefits. There are options for customers who are diagnosed with health problems such as diabetes or constipation where consultation will be given before consuming the right flavours. We recommend ‘Malibu Passion’ which has the right amount of fibre. Each bottled juice is priced RM15 or try out their 3-Day Juice Fast & Detox Diet Plan at RM111 per day. Bear in mind that most cold-pressed juices range between RM13 and RM15 for 300ml as the juice extraction process produces high nutrient retention and mouthful of fibre as well as large amount of fruits that are required. Therefore, you get a total jarful of juice with no sugar, no preservative, and no water added! As cold-pressed juices gain back their popularity in our local scene since its introduction in 2013; people have more options for health products in the market to stay healthy or go funky with their unique bottle shapes for your Instagram moments. by Maressa Esa TI
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Feeling tropical with Juice Mania’s Tropical?
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Sweet chilled ‘ Wanderlust’ Hey! Juice by Ink N Water with a mix of apple, tomato, and carrot
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Malibu Passion for a sourly and rich fibre drink by Friends & Fig
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The five flavours offered by Juice Mania
Drop a visit or place your juice orders via: Juice Mania +6012 7900258 www.facebook.com/juicemania258 Hey! Juice Ink N Water 48, Jalan Pingai, Taman Pelangi, Johor Bahru www.facebook.com/inknwater Friends & Fig 154, Jalan Lumba Kuda, Bukit Chagar, Johor Bahru www.facebook.com/Friendsandfig
Dinner In The Sky Comes South to Johor
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inner In The Sky Malaysia returns for its third time, making its southern city debut in Johor Bahru on 20th May 2016 at Puteri Harbour, Iskandar Puteri. This spectacular dining experience will be a month long event, with two dinners served daily. Brought to you by 2Spicy Entertainment, Dinner In The Sky Malaysia is the first of its kind in South East Asia. Dinner In The Sky Malaysia made its inaugural debut in Malaysia on 1st August 2015 at the KL Tower followed by Penang on 25th February 2016. Already a wellknown brand of entertainment, this Belgian based novelty service has done over 5,000 dinner events in 40 cities around the world so far. Started in May 2006 in Brussels, Belgium, this unique dinner experience uses a crane to hoist diners, table and waiting staff 150 feet off into the air giving them an amazing bird’s eye view whilst
enjoying exquisite culinary feast. This thrilling experience will be hoisted next to the scenic Puteri Harbour, giving diners a spectacular view of the Straits of Johor, sunset as well as the chic Marina. To complete this experience, diners can take their gastronomical journey to a whole different level with the exquisite cuisine served by Tosca Trattoria Italiana of DoubleTree by Hilton Johor Bahru. Dinner In The Sky observes its safety measures to an utmost level. While seated guests will wear safety belts, standing presenter and crew are secured by safety harnesses all the time during the flight. A safety supervisor will brief patrons about all the safety regulations prior to the flight and will be in constant communication with crane operator and ground crew for a smooth flight. This has been approved by TÜV SÜD, the German organisation that validates the safety of products of
all kinds to protect humans and the environment against hazards. In Malaysia, the experience is regulated and is under the advisory of DOSH (Department of Occupational Safety & Health Malaysia). “Dinner In The Sky is one of a kind experience and Johorians as well as Singaporeans ought to take this opportunity to treat their loved ones, friends or corporate members for an unforgettable experience”,
said Dato’ Brian Corvers, Director of 2Spicy Entertainment. “We are thrilled to host the unique Dinner In The Sky experience here at Puteri Harbour, a location that is both scenic and accessible to Johorians and Singaporeans. This event, and many more to come, corresponds with our continuous efforts to drive visitation across the region to truly transform Puteri Harbour into the southern region’s hub for holistic
and rich family experiences,” says Philip Whittaker, Chief Marketing Officer of Themed Attractions Resorts & Hotels Sdn Bhd. This experience engaging all of your five senses is priced at RM599 per person (and RM699 per person on weekends) which include a 4-course dinner. Reservations can be made from now onwards and for further information on the booking procedures logon to www. dinnerinthesky.my
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Family favourites at Nelly’s Cafe Nelly’s Café at SC2.2 Plaza Angsana Johor Bahru, Tampoi, Johor Open daily 10am to 10pm Tel: 019 – 776 6811 Our resident writer Peggy Loh goes scouting for scrumptious food all over Johor Bahru. Reach her for a review at write2peggyloh@gmail.com
Façade of Nelly’s Café on the ground level of Plaza Angsana Johor Bahru
in particular, their own recipe Laksa Johor. There are simply no short-cuts to creating the rich gravy that makes all the difference in an authentic Laksa Johor. Nelly’s mother, Ramah Suki, supports her daughter and son-in-law, Nasser, in preparing the gravy for the Laksa Johor. Each batch of gravy is made with fresh ingredients and the all-important ikan parang or wolf herring (Cantonese: Sai Toh Yue). Before opening the café, Nelly, a former banker with a passion for cooking and baking, had a home catering business.
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inally, there’s a café in Johor Bahru for authentic Laksa Johor made in mother’s recipe! When you come from a long line of good cooks, it’s often a challenge to find food that meets with your discerning taste. Having been spoiled by mother’s cooking, the family’s dining-out experience is usually disastrous because they fail to find food that meets with their expectation. Their search for good food led Saphia Nazreen Abd Hamid, better known as Nelly, to open Nelly’s Café to serve their family favourites,
A serving of the family recipe Laksa Johor using ikan parang in the rich gravy
Popular refreshing drinks [Left to Right], 3-layer Sirap Bandung, Limau Asam Boi and 3-layer Tea Saphia Nazreen Abd Hamid, better known as Nelly, with some of her family favourites that are popular with customers at Nelly’s Café In the last five years, her mother’s Laksa Johor was the main item in most catering menus. As her reputation for its authentic taste spread by word-of-mouth, the demand for her Laksa increased. This also increased their confidence to do more and it was just a matter of time before Nelly’s Café was opened. The café serves a menu of Johor food and family favourites like Nasi Lemak, fried rice and noodles as well as white rice with a choice of gravies. Among them are Lemak
Cili Api in a choice of chicken or prawns cooked in a fiery gravy, rich with coconut milk and served with white rice. Another favourite is Mee Kolo – the Malay version of dry-tossed noodles in a choice of chicken or beef – in a delicious dark sauce. Another firm family favourite is cekodok, a popular snack of freshly fried fritters filled with bits of anchovies, yellow onions, carrot and cabbage, served with a chili dip sauce. Nelly’s also serves two local salads – rojak petis, a salad mixed in a rich prawn paste while gado-gado is drizzled with a peanut sauce and topped with crispy crackers. There is even a menu for Western food and refreshing drinks like 3-layer Sirap Bandung, Limau Asam Boi and 3-layer Tea.
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PROPERT Y INSIGHT
PROPERTY
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RESIDENTIAL PROJECTS
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Cover: Luxury Condominiums in Phnom Penh Malaysians are one of the big investors flocking into Cambodia nowadays due to its rental guarantee & rapid growth development
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Sunway Iskandar open doors to its first landed property development to the public
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Luxury Condominiums in Phnom Penh
Quick Reads
Highlight
More Malaysian investors mushrooming in Cambodia
MoU for High Speed Rail
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hnom Penh is currently on the fast track as Cambodia’s economic outlook is positive with large investments pouring in. Spring CJW Development Pte Ltd has Axis Residence to offer to the international market especially Malaysians. Axis Residence is pinned in the heart of Phnom Penh that comprises eight 10-storey blocks with 566 residential units and it is a freehold property. With almost 20,802 square metre of area, the luxury condominiums are within the ring of Phnom Penh Special Economic Zone (PPSEZ) and located in a close proximity of the education city with international schools such Logos International School and Limkokwing University of Creative Technology. “We have found that Malaysians are one of the big investors flocking into Cambodia nowadays due to its rental guarantee, rapid growth development, US dollar dominated economy, easy fund movement, and as well as vast business links where Malaysians are seen to open numerous factories there,” said Leong Boon Hoe, Managing Director of CBRE Realty Associates.
Artist impression of Axis Residence Phnom Penh The property comes in 1 bedroom unit, 2 bedrooms unit, 3 bedrooms unit, and a penthouse with 4 bedrooms and amenities such as children’s indoor and outdoor playground, 50m lap pool, jungle Jacuzzi, indoor and
outdoor gymnasium, and tennis courts. The price of a unit in Axis Residence starts from RM356,000.00 or rental option at RM3125.00 and expected to ready by the third quarter of 2018. - by Maressa Esa TI
Real Life Case Studies Opinion
A.Devadason
CA(M), FCCA, MDRT
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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
n this issue, I will be exploring the various types of Income Protection policies as well as the principles applied when deciding on insured values. Policies falling under this category comprises of:1. Critical Illness (CI) 2. Personal Accident (PA) 3. Hospital Income (HI) 4. Life When one purchases any of the policies above, in essence, one is simply buying time on how long one can stay away from active work while nursing from an unfortunate covered event. Critical Illness Plan When taking CI plans, I usually suggest taking the equivalent of 3 years of gross income rather than take home pay, as it’s a better representation of the insured’s true economic value. Often, I’m asked why 3 years? Why not lower or even
Income Replacement Plans
higher? The 3 years benchmark is based on my experience in the field of financial advisory. When a covered event occurs, money is often the difference between life and death. Let’s say the insured person is diagnosed with cancer, which happens to be one of the 36 covered events in a CI policy. In reality, the first 12 to 18 months will likely to be riddled with multiple trips to the hospital.Should the insured respond favourably to the treatment given, the insured will likely be given medical leave for the next 12-18 months to recuperate. Economically, the insured has lost 3 years of income earning ability. No employer, despite their generosity, will be able to keep a sick employee on their payroll for 36 months on full salary. If they do, then that would be an exceptional firm to work with! Based on this rationale and medical statistics, the 3 year benchmark is applied. Should ones budget allow, take bigger income multiples. Insured values that are lesser than recommended values should be topped at the next immediate opportunity to do so. Personal Accident Plans The common approach is to buy pre-packaged policies that has a
certain sum assured on Death and matching the premium with ones budget and then signing up for it. However, statistically, the probability Death/Permanent Disability/Dismemberment is less than 10% in the event of an Accident. One is 9 times more likely to sustain an injury and survive the ordeal. Hence, the proper way of planning is to focus on Living Benefit rather than Death. Should an accident occur and one is on extended MC with no pay, at least a monthly benefit can be received from the insurer to take care of compulsory expenses such as house instalments, utility bills, living expenses, etc. Hospital Income Plan Its purpose is to compensate policy owners with daily income benefit in the event of hospitalisation due illness or accident. Pre/post hospitalisation medical leave however, is not covered. It is a plan that I rarely give to individuals who are on regular employment with fixed salaries since their pay is not reduced due to medical absenteeism. Hence, HI plans are not relevant. t is more suited for those who are daily paid, such as parttime waiters, construction workers, etc. By having a HI plan, this loss is
mitigated for each day that the policy owner is absent from work. Life Policies Life policies are plans that pay when the insured’s life has been taken away due to natural causes (includes sickness and old age), accidentally (includes murder) and in some cases, even suicide. The rationale is to provide dependents with financial assistance for the income lost due to the insured’s passing. In practice, I usually suggest a coverage amounting to 10 years of annual income. The logic for this figure is based on the theory that most people are able to come to terms with the loss of a loved one by that time period. It also gives the insured a psychological relief that the family would have sufficient time to re-organise their lives and move on. Conclusion The suggestions above for each type of policy are a guideline rather than an exact science. There is no hard and fast rule to apply when designing a plan. At the end of the day, it is something that helps the insured to sleep well at night knowing that he/she has done what is practically possible in discharging one’s responsibilities.
It has been recently reported that the highly anticipated MoU for the KL-Singapore High Speed Rail will be signed by middle of this year as announced by Prime Minister Dato’ Seri Najib Razak. A spokesperson from Singapore’s Ministry of Transport said both countries are working towards signing the MoU at the next Leaders’ Retreat, which will be held in Malaysia. It was announced that the terminus for the Singapore side of the project will be built on the site occupied by Jurong Country Club. Work is expected to start in 2017 and completed by 2022, according to the Malay Mail Online. When c o m p l e te d, commuters on the High Speed Rail are expected to complete their journey between Singapore and KL in 90 minutes.
Johor Bahru as the Second Biggest City It was recently reported that Sultan of Johor, Sultan Ibrahim Ibni Sultan Iskandar aims to make Johor Bahru the second biggest city in the country after Kuala Lumpur. He said the Southern city was poised to make the grade because of its swift transformation and strategic location next to Singapore, which other states did not enjoy. The key catalytic projects included the Ibrahim International Business District, High Speed Rail, Johor BahruSingapore Rapid Transit System and Coronation Square, which would push JB for the second city status. He said the jewel of the upcoming business district will be an RM3 billion complex called Coronation Square. It will come up on the site of the old bus and taxi terminal, just half a kilometre from JB Sentral. “All this is in line with my vision of making Johor Bahru a financial hub,” he added.
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Property Investment Opinion
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
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ately, there are plenty of negative news from declining growth numbers in many countries (especially China and Singapore) to declining investments, impaired currency exchange rates, lower commodity prices and increasing job losses. The Star newspaper recently reported that Petronas Chemicals Group Bhd scrapped a giant elastomers project worth US$1.3bil as part of the Refinery and Petrochemicals Integrated Development (RAPID) project in Johor.
Quick Reads
Mah Sing to Maintain Sales Mah Sing Group Bhd expects to maintain last year’s RM2.3 billion sales target for 2016, spurred by ongoing projects, as reported recently. The property developer has at present 35 projects in hand with a gross development value of RM32.85 billion which will keep it busy for the next eight years. Group Managing Director and Group Chief Executive Tan Sri Leong Hoy Kum said the group had achieved a commendable sales target of RM2.3 billion in 2015. Leong said the group had achieved about RM408 million in sales as of 31st March 2016 and despite the shorter working first quarter 2016 due to the festive season. “We are in a good position to meet our 2016 sales target with a wide product range located at key hotspots and attractive pricing,” he said during a briefing at the 12th Invest Malaysia 2016.
Why Invest in Johor Now?
Although the Ringgit has regained some strength in the market (trading at 2.90 to the SGD), an oversupplied oil market and slower demand for fuel continue to pose great pressure on the currency. So why invest in Johor now? As the only state linked to the third largest financial centre in Singapore, Johor has been catching up with synergies long overdue. The good bilateral relation between Malaysia and Singapore established by the Prime Ministers of both countries has given Johor tremendous advancement momentum. While other states in Malaysia suffer from lower trade receipts, tourism spending in Johor has increased with the strong Singapore dollar. The state will also see better transportation links to Singapore in particular via the Causeway and second link. Both countries are meeting in June for their yearly leaders’ retreat which is expected to progress
transportation links further. The MoU for high speed rail links has been reported to be signed then. One more exciting prospect is having direct air links to China. This will begin soon between Senai Airport and Guangzhou, China. The AirAsia route will be expected to bring in thousands of wallet-padded Chinese tourists to Johor. Johor also has a relatively low population density. With large growth in business, Johor will see a greater influx of workers and talent from other states in the near future. This new migrant population will need housing and services. It means existing home owners will see greater demand for rental returns. Across the causeway, Singapore economy continues to restructure. Many companies both large and small will look to move operations to lower cost destinations. Johor with its vast land and good links will be the single biggest beneficiary. Many individuals especially Malaysians working in
Singapore will look at Johor as the secondary home base either for recreation or retirement. There has been little academic research on this future trend. But I am certain that Johor will be the first port of call for both companies and individuals alike. I believe many buyers do not study enough the future housing demand for rental. Most buyers just buy what they can afford without evaluating other risks. This is logical but inadequate. Mass buying causes developers to react in reciprocation. For example, many small or mini apartments were sold in the last few years to cater to affordability. Sadly, equally many were returned to developers when fear set in. You need to buy a good property when you can afford it. Migrant workers and retiring Malaysians will not live in small cramped apartments. Many prefer better quality homes which mean securing places with facilities in a good neighbourhood. As prices continue to increase, it is still much better to buy earlier than later.
Luxury Homes at Emerald Residence Sunway Iskandar Interest
Sunway Iskandar open doors to its first landed property development to the public
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unway Iskandar officially launched two of their Emerald Residence show house units to the public with a fun-filled day for the whole family. Their latest residential development spreads over 22-acres of land and is the first landed property in Sunway Iskandar. It is a low density development which comprises 222 units of Link Homes, Courtyard Homes, Garden Villas, Link Semi-D and Semi-Detached Homes that comes with a private club house. Built around the beautiful Emerald Lake Garden, Sunway Iskandar is aiming to cater to those who desire luxurious fine living in an exclusive community with the calm and lushes greenery around the new development. The first of the two new units launched were the threestorey semi-detached units with a build-up area between 3927 sq.ft to 4290 sq.ft that spread over a land area between 42’ x 77’ to 42’ x 102’. The semi-detached units are situated by the hillside and boast a view to-die-for overlooking the
lake. With 5 rooms (4+1), and a price tag starting from RM2.4 million, the house is targeted to suit the higher end of the market segment. The second variant would be a two-storey super link house with a build-up area between 2681 sq.ft to 3166 sq.ft and spread over lot sizes ranging from 31’ x 75’ to 31’ x 108’. The super link unit has 4 rooms (3+1) and features a 3 metre high ceiling in the main living area. It is priced from RM1.5 million. “These units are aimed at the medium high to high market segments, so by having a number of luxury units will encourage that particular group to come and live here,” explained Gerard Soosay, Chief Executive Officer of Sunway Iskandar. The units are now available for bookings, and currently 50% are already booked. Construction for the first phase is expected to be completed by the third quarter of 2018. The project also attracted a lot of overseas interest including from Taiwan, Japan and Singapore. “While there are interests
(From left) Assistant General Manager, Marketing and Sales, Sunway Iskandar Chris Chen, Chief Executive Officer, Sunway Iskandar Gerard Soosay, Senior Manager of Project Management, Sunway Iskandar Ng Chai Teck, and Ar. Suresh Robert, Assistant General Manager, Product Design and Development, Sunway Iskandar in front of their flagship three-storey semidetached units from foreign investors, we are looking at attracting people that are here to stay, for long and not only for an investment since we are focused on building a master planned community,” added Gerard.
Among other fun activities lined up for the day were a movie screening by the lake, virtual reality experience, bumper boat adventure and food truck festival. - by Hakim Malik TI
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Propernomy by Dr Daniele Opinion
Golden Rules for Profitable Property Investment 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.
affordable homes all around Malaysia. Concentrating our attention on the more sustainable property market, Greater KL and Klang Valley we can say that residential properties priced between RM250,000 and RM850,000 (according to different areas of course) will remain a very good product for investors and will guarantee a good capital appreciation. Going a bit deeper into this analysis we can also estimate values and percentage of supply for the three main categories of homes offered to the 60% middle income earners. Following the numbers below, an investor can be rest reassured that his property will always have a good demand in terms of both purchasing and rental.
Table 2
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roperty has been looked at as the best and safest asset for medium long term investment. Real Estate is that kind of asset which will appreciate during boom times and safely maintain its value during the doom ones. Of course there are properties which are delivering capital gains above average, others are fulfilling a good ROI (return on investment), special ones that are granting both positive effects and of course some that are poorly performing. There are no secret rules or special tricks to apply in having good and profitable property investment; it’s mostly a matter of using a lot of “common sense” and few basic golden rules or, in other words, applying the fundamentals of Propernomy. Table 3
choice of amenities, future developments in the proximity will surely help raise the values above average. In other words always check facts and numbers!
Rule 1 – Perception and Reality We can surely say that buying a property is an important decision that a person will take in his life. One should do a complete due diligence on the proposed property and its surroundings before putting down any kind of money. In development projects there must always be a good demand driver that will help the future appreciation of your investment. A university, public transportation nearby, good accessibility, good and wide
Rule 2 – Fully Understand Current and Future Market Situation Everybody is now shouting that we are on the verge of a property bubble with an overwhelming supply flooding the market. Facts and numbers, again, are actually telling us the exact opposite. There has been an oversupply of high-end properties which will be absorbed by the market in the medium term; however, the supply of affordable homes has been for years and still is far behind the actual demand. Recent studies and elaboration of the property 2014 Market Report, released earlier this year by NAPIC, are clearly showing how supply of new affordable homes is and will remain for long time unable to catch up with the demand. Affordable homes have very different values throughout Malaysia and are nowadays a highly hunted product.
Considering that 60% of the Malaysian population or 18,000,000 Malaysians are the core of the middle class, controlling a good 55% of the Malaysian wealth, we can determine that properties priced between RM200 to RM700 psf will be a target by their purchasing appetites now and for the next several years. Published few weeks ago, the table below indicates the average values of
Table 4
Rule 3 – Look for Demand Drivers I always recommend our developer clients to build according to demand as purchasers would always ask, (before confirming their purchase) what the demand factors are and where they come from. The rule no. 2 is in good part already elaborating on this point but to give some specific examples I would suggest to carefully study the future alignment of MRT Line 2, LRT Line 3 and all the proposed corridors of 12 BRT lines proposed by SPAD in 2014. We also need to look at the incoming High Speed Rail which will have one stop over in Putrajaya Sentral before hitting its final destination in Bandar Malaysia. Putrajaya Sentral, located almost in the middle of the Southern Corridor of Klang Valley, is poised to become an intermodal monster transportation nod with MRT Line 2 terminal station, KLIA transit and HSR stop over without mentioning the bus station which will serve local and regional routes. Demand will be there for long and for sure property values will go sky high with a good peace of mind in terms of purchasers and tenants for all kind of property investors. In the next issue we will go through the second set of golden rules for property investors. If you have any queries or would like to comment and ask for further information kindly contact Dr. Daniele Gambero, at: daniele.g@reigroyup.com.my
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