The Iskandarian March 2018 Issue

The Iskandarian

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ISSUE 67 | MAR 2018 FREE COPY Official Newspaper

The Iskandarian Iskandar Malaysia’s Official Newspaper, is a synergistic product by True Soul Media PLT & IRDA’s Social Development Division

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The Iskandarian Monthly Drill

We interview CEOs & Chairmen with drilling questions

pg 9

There have been a number of new hotels entering the market and this has increased competitiveness amongst the hotels - Rayan Charles Komatt

email: editor@theiskandarian.com

General Manager, Thistle Johor Bahru

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Local Contribution to Winter Olympics Read on pg11

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Local Entrepreneurs Read on pg11 Go Global

Air Asia

- First National Carrier to Adopt Facial Recognition for Fast Check-in

5th ISKANDAR MALAYSIA SOCIAL HERO AWARDS 2018 #IMSHA2018

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N! ARE NOW OPE S N IO T A IN M NO Visit awards om/socialhero .c k o o b ce a .f www for details

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Startup Fest to Drive Innovation Transforming Iskandar Puteri into a destination for startups and entrepreneurs

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rganised by StartUp Johor, the four-day festival took place at the CIMB Leadership Academy in Medini, and featured a pitching session, hackathon, networking session as well as several masterclasses by some of the best industry players within the region.

Chief Operating Officer (COO) of Iskandar Investment Berhad (IIB), Akmal Ahmad and Managing Director as well as Chief Executive Officer of Medini Iskandar Malaysia Sdn. Bhd. (MIM) Dr. James Tee were present to show their support in this industry’s milestone and to officiate the launch of IP SMART 2018: CREATE. “IP Smart is focused on driving community startups and entrepreneurs and IP Space fits into the ecosystem, as we have the space, and now we need the activities.

These are the first steps into turning Iskandar Puteri into a destination for

(From left) COO of IIB Akmal Ahmad, Managing Director, CEO of MIM Dr. James Tee and Lim Feng, Founder and Community Director of Startup Johor at the launch of IP SMART 2018: CREATE festival at Medini, Iskandar Puteri

startups and entrepreneurs of this region,” said Akmal.

He explained that this is how a community of startups and entrepreneurs is built, and with the right cultivation, it will contribute to IIB’s vision of a

sustainable development that covers both economics and social development which emphasises on the participation of the locals.

“With our partners like Cradle Fund, MDec and MaGIC, we are more focused on programmes

that emphasise on skillsets and management, while providing the expertise to help cultivate the startups here, from working space, activities, mentoring, as well as a platform for them to be ready when they hit the market.”

“We are building an entirely new ecosystem here in Iskandar Malaysia and this is the first round of moving things forward as there are different pillars of IP Smart and each is an extension of what IIB aims to do here,” said Lim Feng, Founder & Community Director of Startup Johor that is responsible for cultivating the local startup community and the building of a sustainable ecosystem in the southern region of Malaysia.

Over 400 innovators, entrepreneurs, developers, designers as well as investors were present to give their insights and shared their experience at this first of its kind startup industry event in Johor. - by Amin Khairuddin TI

Seven Families in Selesa Jaya Received Festive Cheer PEGASUS INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL

Gleneagles MEDINI

“In The Arms Of One Who Cares”

Representatives from Kechara Soup Kitchen and Le Grandeur Palm Resort Johor handing out festive goodies and ang pow to one of the recipients

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uring the recent Chinese New Ye a r celebrations, Pa l m R e s o r t J o h o r together with Kechara Soup Kitchen delivered festive cookies, mandarin oranges and red packets to seven needy families residing in Taman Selesa Jaya, Johor Bahru.

“C h i n e s e N e w Year is a time for family reunions and celebration but some families are too poor to indulge in auspicious must-haves such as cookies and mandarin oranges. Those of us who are more privileged should not miss them out. I am glad that Kechara Soup Kitchen had agreed to work with us on

such a meaningful cause during this important festivity,” said Jef Kong, the General Manager of Le Grandeur Palm Resort Johor and also the CEO of Palm Resort Golf & Country Club.

Among the seven families is a single mother with three children.

Being left to care for her children, aged 8, 10 and 14, her husband had left her with a great sum in debts. In order to support the family and at the same time look after the children, she works from home folding boxes and spinning thin wire for a bakery store.

Another family that received aid, was a man aged seventy-four

years old who rented only a bed space in a flat. For the tiny space, he is committed to pay RM150 in rent every month.

“We hope that these small gifts and red packets will not only bring joy but also help a little in their day-

to-day needs,’ said Kong.

The convoy of distributors was led by Kechara’s representative, Merlin Hoo followed by Le Grandeur’s team of department heads. It took approximately two and a half hours to visit all seven

families and to complete the distribution.

Every year especially during the main festive s e a s o n s, t h e re s o r t undertakes CSR projects to benefit the community around their area. - by The Iskandarian 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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Enhancing the Shipping and Transportation Of Goods Across Borders Johor Port Berhad (JPB) forms smart partnership with PT Pelabuhan Indonesia I to boost strategic collaboration

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Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed and sealed between Malaysia and Indonesia, to enhance strategic collaboration in the shipping and transportation industry.

Johor Port Berhad (JPB), a member of MMC Group, has made it clear to enhance the shipping and transportation of goods across borders by emulating the Kuala Kedah and Langkawi Roll On Roll Off (RORO) activities.

JPB and PELINDO I will explore potential cooperation and other opportunities in port and logistics businesses such as Operation and Management approach on existing and new port development, and joint collaboration on new port development.

The MoU builds on Strategic Logistics collaboration between both ports to establish RORO activities and connectivity between ports operated by PELINDO I in Sumatera/Aceh and ports within the MMC Group in Peninsular Malaysia known as MMC Ports. Other than Johor Port Berhad, MMC Ports consists of Port of Tanjung Pelepas

(PTP), Northport, Penang Port, and Tanjung Bruas Port in Melaka.

Representing JPB was the CEO Shahrull Allam Shah Abdul Halim, whereas PELINDO I was represented by Human Resources and General Affair Director, Hamid Wijaya.

The MoU signing ceremony was witnessed by the Deputy Transport Miniter of Malaysia, YB Datuk Ab Aziz Kaprawi.

Also, present was Andreano Erwin, Deputy Ambassador of Indonesia to Malaysia.

The RORO activities will significantly reduce the costs and time for goods to be transported from origin to destination which will be a major boost to upstream business and commerce transactions.

Besides the commerce aspect between both nations, tourism can also be boosted by the implementation of this MoU as a new Customs Immigration and Quarantine (CIQ) facility will be built at designated ports to process not only commercial transports, but also non-commercial activities such as the in and out flow of tourist through the RORO service. - by Harish Mustak TI

From left; Andreano Erwin (Deputy Ambassador of Indonesia to Malaysia), Hamid Wijaya (Human Resources and General Affair Director), Shahrull Allam Shah Abdul Halim (JPB CEO), Datuk Ab Aziz Kaprawi (Deputy Minister of Transport Malaysia)

Iskandar Malaysia’s New Urban Agenda

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skandar Malaysia made its first appearance at the 9th World Urban Forum in Kuala Lumpur, last month, highlighting its various internationally recognised initiatives in the field of urban development since its inception more than a decade ago.

“The World Urban Forum is an event of global proportion and this year’s theme of ‘Cities 2030 – Cities for All: Implementing the New Urban Agenda’ made it the perfect platform for Iskandar Malaysia to be present, share and exchange knowledge on its many initiatives in the area of urban development specifically in Urban Observatory, Smart City, Low Carbon Society and Social Development.

Bringing over our vision of being “A Strong and Sustainable Metropolis of International Standing” to the forum, we hope that we can not only contribute to making an impact in the field of urban development globally but also learn much from the many global experts and professionals in this field who will be attending the forum,” said Datuk Ismail Ibrahim, Chief Executive of Iskandar Regional Development Authority (IRDA).

Iskandar Malaysia has kicked-off a data sharing system in the cloud that will help the stakeholders in the region to make the necessary decisions that are important to them.

The Iskandar Malaysia Urban Observatory is a ‘single window’ where information and data is collected, kept and analysed in a smart city environment, which becomes a platform that that could transform relevant authoritative data into insightful information for better policy making and well-informed decision making.

In line with the Federal Government’s voluntary GHG emissions reduction effort, Iskandar Malaysia took the initiative to address carbon emissions in its jurisdiction, and in 2016, Iskandar Malaysia reduced emission intensity by 10.7%.

Ismail added, “Having gained massive interest from the global players, with more than USD65 million investments recorded for the past 11 years, we are confident that Iskandar Malaysia has played its part in ensuring that its development is in the interest of all stakeholders economically, environmentally and socially.” - by The Iskandarian TI

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MIRF Sets Malaysia as the Ideal International Retail and Franchise Hub MIRF 2018 aims to encourage greater cross-border retail expansion for Malaysian businesses

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he Malaysia Retail Chain Association (MRCA) has officially announced the return of its Malaysia International Retail & Franchise (MIRF) Exhibition. The exhibition makes a comeback for the third consecutive year as announced earlier at a press conference held at Nippon Paint HQ, Shah Alam.

MRCA has set its sights at the annual MIRF Exhibition becoming the largest showcase of retail and franchise exhibitors that Malaysia has ever seen. MIRF 2018 strives to deliver a wide range display of the best and most established retail brands under one roof.

The association strives to complement the needs of every professional with numerous educational features and business matching opportunities via the MIRF 2018. In line with MRCA’s direction for cross-border retail expansion plan, MIRF sets Malaysia as the ideal international retail and franchise hub to seek potential

investors and partners.

This year, MRCA has selected the theme “Platform for Growth” to emphasise the fact that MIRF is a growth platform for the retail and franchise businesses. This expansion is not merely constricted to the revenue of these businesses but also to include shaping and cultivating new business model along with innovative strategies.

R aymond Woo, the Organising Chairman, stated that, “MIRF 2018 is slated to attract over 10 countries worldwide to participate in the exhibition – presenting a variety of business opportunities for Malaysians to explore. This makes it an essential event for retailers and consumers as they would be able to interact, transact and form new collaborations as well as crossborder partnerships.”

“We are confident that this year’s MIRF will be far more successful as many have seen how our previous MIRF exhibitions have

From Left: Chin Chee Seong, Immediate Past President of PIKOM, Valerie Choo, MRCA Deputy President, Dato’ Garry Chua, MRCA President, Raymond Woo, MIRF 2018 Organising Chairman, Dato’ Liew Bin, MRCA Advisor, Tasha Hsiao, Director of Taitra, Datin Flora Tan, MRCA Committee Member, Dato’ Winnie Lim, MRCA Council Member

effectively opened up new business opportunities to the public,” added Raymond.

In retrospect, MIRF 2017 successfully transacted over RM65 million in business revenue with a record of more than 21,000 visitors.

MRCA is positive that this year’s MIRF Exhibition, set to be held at Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre

UNITEN students take top honours in Frost & Sullivan Case Challenge 2018

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hree Universiti Tenaga Nasional (UNITEN) students took the top prize for this year’s Frost & Sullivan Case Challenge, an event held to encourage university students to address real-life issues and to prepare them for future careers.

The participants were given a hypothetical situation and they had to come up with a solution to address the issues and offer the best approach for the task given.

This year the participants were put in a position as advisors to the Johor Menteri Besar which required them to advise him on a hypothetical Smart City roadmap for the development of a greenfield township situated approximately 20 kilometres from the Batu Pahat city centre. The township was tentatively named Bandar Padang

(KLCC), will be able to record a 15% increase in these figures.

MRCA President Dato’ Garry Chua reiterated, “We are pleased to present the MIRF Exhibition for the third year in running.

Through the MIRF 2018, MRCA hopes to help promote Malaysia’s economic development and create more fruitful entrepreneurial

Mad in Italy Returns to Johor Italian A-Capella group Mezzotono plans to bring another impressive performance for local audiences

W The finalists of Frost & Sullivan Case Challenge

Hijau (BHP).

58 teams took up the challenge but only 27 met the criteria and from those, five were finalists for the final presentation at Frost & Sullivan’s Research Hub in Medini City.

The winning team was Farah Ain Shazlin, Iyadh Haziq Wan Yusof and Tang Huei Wern, final year students from UNITEN, calling themselves The Outliers after a book by Malcolm Gladwell, took home a cheque of RM2,500 and the opportunity to intern or even become part of Frost & Sullivan’s consulting team.

The three first got together for a case study challenge organised by their university, which they won and decided to continue the partnership The winners: L-R Farah Ain Shazlin, Iyadh for the Frost & Sullivan Haziq Wan Yusof and Tang Huei Wern Challenge.

“We felt that our different personalities and university courses helped in our problemsolving abilities,” said Farah an accountancy major while Tang studied human resource and Iyadh Haziq, International Business.

The three judges were Rhenu Buller, Partner & Senior Vice President, Frost & Sullivan, Yasuhiro Nakano, Executive Vice President Medini Iskandar Malaysia and Idzuan Azam Abdullah, Senior Vice President Iskandar Regional Development Authority (IRDA).

“The winners included and considered issues of sustainabilty of food and agricultural production, carbon emmissions and the environment while incorporating technology into their mix of solutions for the greenfield Smart City challenge,” said Buller.

Buller hopes that Case Challenge will be an annual event and with the participation of more universities. - by Shufiyan Shukor TI

opportunities for local businesses.”

MIRF 2018 is proudly endorsed by Ministr y of Domestic Trade, Co-operatives and Consumerism (KPDNKK) and Malaysia External Trade D e ve l o p m e n t Co r p o r a t i o n (MATRADE).

Meanwhile, supporting par tners include Malaysia Convention & Exhibition Bureau, Ministry of Tourism and Culture, Secretariat for the Advancement of Malaysia Entrepreneurs, Commerce Development Research Institute, Hong Kong Trade Development Council, The Associated Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry of Malaysia (ACCIM), The National ICT Association of Malaysia (PIKOM), and Asiawide Franchise.

Malaysia Retail Chain Association (MRCA), founded in 1992, is an association for chain store retailers and franchisors determined to enhance the retail and franchise environment in Malaysia and abroad.

- by Priya Manikam TI

ith an impressive performance record that spans over 40 countries across 4 continents, including appearances on Italy’s Got Talent, the five amazing maestros of Mezzotono is set to dazzle local audiences for the third time, on the 12th of March 2018 at Doubletree by Hilton JB. Describing themselves as a small Italian orchestra without any instruments, each show is only performed with only five human voices and a wide repertoire that ranges from bossa nova, pop, jazz and classical music.

Following two sold out performances, this year’s show is set to add a fresh new twist to each arrangement, staying true to Mezzotono’s unique performance.

Performing for one night only will be Fabio Lepore, soprano Daniela

Desideri, mezzosoprano Francesca Leone, baritone Luigi Nardiello, and bass Alessandro Gnolfo.

‘Mad in Italy – A Fun Evening of A-Cappella’ with Mezzotono marks the second event of the year by The Johor Society for the Performing Arts (JSPA). The upcoming annual Johor Arts Festival turns 15 this year and promises an all new exciting line up of arts and cultural events in Johor Bahru that will take place throughout the year, providing a myriad of opportunities for locals to indulge in creative experiences across several programme platforms.

To find out more about purchasing tickets, please contact the JSPA at +60197139900, visit www.jspa.org.my, or follow The Johor Society for the Performing Arts on Facebook at www.facebook. com/johorperformingarts. - by Amin Khairuddin TI

Italian A-Capella group Mezzotono at last year’s performance at the 14th Johor Arts Festival

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Air Asia Becomes First National Carrier to Adopt Facial Recognition for Fast Check-in Phase one of the project will cost RM2.56 billion and is expected to be operational by 2021

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n congratulating and applauding AirAsia and Senai International Airport, YB Datuk Nur Jazlan Bin Mohamed, Deputy Minister of Home Affairs said that AirAsia’s Fast Airport Clearance Experience System (FACES) is essential in dealing with changes in the world today, especially when it comes to the issues of migration, transnational crime and issues of social and cultural change.

“For example in Johor because of the development of the Iskandar Economic Zone, we expect the state to grow exponentially in the next few years and when it grows it will attract a lot of people from the ASEAN region and all over the world to come here to participate in the economic development of the Iskandar project.

“This system could help tremendously in many ways in addition to assisting AirAsia’s passengers through speeding up the check-in and boarding procedures; it could assist in identifying people who come in and out of the country through this

airport,” Nur Jazlan said.

However FACES is not at the moment linked to the Immigration system under his ministry.

While praising the cooperation and collaboration between AirAsia and Senai I nternational Airpor t in implementing such an advanced biometric system, the Deputy Home Minister also expressed concerns with the security of the personal data that is collected, citing a recent report that personal data of mobile phone subscribers had been breached.

Nur Jazlan hopes that the airline’s data protection measures are strong and secure and no breaches can occur.

In a statement, Tan Sri Tony Fernandes, Group CEO of AirAsia and Co-Group CEO of AirAsia X said; “Airports are typically the worst part of flying. FACES marks our latest effort to make the onground experience more seamless and less stressful by using cutting edge biometric technology to authenticate guests. With FACES, your face is your passport, making it a breeze to clear the gate and

board your flight.”

“We hope the success of FACES here will serve as an inspiration and we are keen to work with other airports in Malaysia to revolutionise the way people travel with this technology and make flying enjoyable again,” he added.

Aireen Omar, Deputy Group CEO (Digital, Transformation, Corporate Services) of AirAsia explained that passengers have to go through a one-time enrolment process where they put in their MyKads or passports in a document reader, look at the camera which then takes a picture and creates a biometric token.

According to Aireen the process takes less than a minute.

“Once the enrolment process is completed, the process of check-in to boarding using the latest biometric facial recognition technology without the need for a boarding pass and travel documents because everything is captured at the point that you have enrolled your face,” she said.

Group Managing Director of MMC Corporation Berhad, which operates the airport, Dato’

YB Datuk Nur Jazlan Bin Mohamed, Deputy Minister of Home Affairs taking a closer look at FACES

Sri Che Khalib Mohamad Noh said in a statement; “It is an honour for Senai Airport to be selected as the first airport in Malaysia to pilot this cutting-edge technology. We are forecasting the passenger traffic to increase by 16% to 3.6 million this year.”

Currently there is one enrolment kiosk and three self-

boarding gates in Senai Airport.

After the initial enrolment, AirAsia’s passengers may use the biometric gates for all flights as long as their identity document remains valid. Upon expiry of the identity document, guests will need to update the enrolment record with a new valid document.

- Shufiyan Shukur TI

JEiWA Says Thank You!

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* Image is for illustration only

ast December, Persatuan Pemerkasaan Wanita Intelektual Johor (JEiWA) received a donation of RM10,000 from Uda Angsana Sdn Bhd as a contribution towards Rumah Kanak-Kanak Mini Ulu Tiram.

President and Founder of JEiWA, Nor Fadilah Mohamed Nizar is also the Chairman of the Rumah Kanak-Kanak Mini Ulu Tiram’s Visitor Board. The appointment of Nor Fadhilah by Dato’ Seri Hajah Rohani Abdul Karim, Minister of Women, Family and Community Development of Malaysia based on the Children Act 2001, is also an advantage to the JEiWA Association as JEiWA is not just an organisation that organises programmes for empowering women but is also active in creating children’s empowerment programmes.

Rumah Kanak-Kanak Mini (RKK Mini) was established in 2015 under the Social Welfare Department and Ministry of Women, Family and Community Development.

RKK Mini was created to provide care and protection to the less fortunate children, promoting physical, emotional and mental development in a healthy and safe environment. The Home houses a maximum of 30 12-year-old girls who were victims of physical, mental and sexual abuse. The children are also among the victims of neglect due to parents involved in crimes such as drug mules, drug abuse and other cases. Sadly, the home also cares for babies who were dumped.

Through the donation from Uda

JEiWA with the children from Rumah Kanak-Kanak Mini Ulu Tiram after shopping for school essentials at Tesco Sri Alam Johor

Angsana Sdn Bhd, JEiWA spent time with the children of the Home by shopping for school essentials at Tesco Bandar Sri Alam Johor.

The surplus balance of the donation money was used to open a bank account and also to facilitate the public to donate towards the Children’s Home. Therefore, people who want to channel their donations can bank in straight to RKK Mini Visitor’s Board account via 551137524242 (MayBank). If you have any inquiries regarding Rumah Kanak-Kanak Mini Ulu Tiram, you may contact JEiWA directly at presidentjeiwa@gmail.com or contact RKK Mini’s Principal, Pn Hasmah via email at rkkmini_ulutiram@yahoo.my.

For more information about JEiWa, visit them at www.facebook.com/JEIWA. - by Priya Manikam TI

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IRDA and IKHLAS Engaged with the Public on Future BRT Project

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Providing Iskandar Malaysia with a mobile and sustainable transport system

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ith urbanisation the biggest challenge in any developing city, a proper means of public transportation is needed to provide the populace with an alternative method of getting

around. Part of Iskandar Regional Development Authority (IRDA)’s transformation plans includes the planned Bus Rapid Transport (BRT) system that aims to reduce traffic congestion and carbon emission within the development corridor.

Residents of Iskandar Malaysia were present for the Muafakat Talk, Why BRT? Held at M-Suites

Organised by the ‘Institut Integriti Kepimpinan dan Latihan Semangat Dato’ Onn’ (IKHLAS) and IRDA, the talk educated the public further on the upcoming BRT project that is expected to start in the first quarter of next year. They were briefed on land reclamation, plans, proposed construction date and timeline, as well as bus service routes that will connect the four corners of Iskandar Malaysia.

The BRT is a specialised form of prioritised bus service that is designed to meet the high demand of passengers by incorporating several aspects of mass transit.

Dedicated high capacity buses will travel on exclusive lanes on the road and utilise a pre boarding payment system as well as a common ticketing system to enable a more integrated

Rotary Club of Johor Bahru Brings Double Festive Cheer

management among multiple bus operators.

The project also includes a mobility management system to coordinate travels for users. An online platform that is accessible through co m p u te r s and smartphones will connect users with Iskandar Malaysia Bus Rapid Transport Director the various modes Rudyanto Azhar explaining the benefits and of travel within the implementation process of the upcoming BRT Iskandar Malaysia project to residents of Iskandar Malaysia Region.

The talk, held at M-Suites Rudyanto Azhar who explained the was conducted by Maimunah Jaafar, project will cover almost 90% of IM Head of Planning and Compliance with more than 300km of routes IRDA as well as Iskandar Malaysia with 4 main trunk routes. - by Amin Bus Rapid Transport Director Khairuddin TI

Ihsan Johor: More Houses for the Needy

RCJB organised a visit to Ang Tiong Loi-Rotary Children’s Home and Rumah Orang-Orang Tua Sukarela Tampoi

(From left) Ihsan Johor’s Founding President Suhaimi Salleh and Chief Executive Officer Farrah Faridah Baptist

Datuk Teo Shiok Fu JP, President of Rotary Club Johor Bahru handing out ang pow to the residents of Rumah Orang-Orang Tua Sukarela in Tampoi

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itch Albom once said “Devote yourself to your community around you and devote yourself to creating something that gives you purpose and meaning”.

In line with giving back to the community and caring for them, Datuk Teo Shiok Fu JP, President of Rotary Club Johor Bahru (RCJB) and his Community Service Committee visited the Ang Tiong Loi-Rotary Children’s Home in Skudai to hand over a Panasonic 16 kg front load washing machine which was donated by a generous low-profile RCJB donor.

Besides donating a useful gift to the Home, the children were not left out as each received an ang pow for Chinese New Year and a goody bag of snacks. The ang pows and good bags were sponsored by 2 RCJB members.

There are currently 16 children; 9 boys and 7 girls aged from 2 to 13 years’ old staying at the Children’s Home located in Ungku Tun Aminah, Johor Bahru.

Datuk Teo and the RCJB team also took their time to visit the residents of Rumah OrangOrang Tua Sukarela in Tampoi and presented them each with an ang pow for Chinese New Year, a pair of oranges and a goody bag containing necessities such as Tiger Balm ointment, Cap Dua Singa medicated oil, Milo, instant noodles, instant coffee, biscuits, toilet paper rolls and Brand’s Essence of Chicken.

An RCJB member also went all out by giving an additional ang pow to each resident.

Tiger Balm (M) Sdn Bhd sponsored the Tiger Balm ointment and Cap Dua Singa medicated oils.

RCJB members also checked

out the facilities at the Home and spoke with the residents there. The Home presently has 5 residents (4 male and 1 female), aged from 68 to 88 years’ old.

Thereafter, all 5 residents and the Home’s staff were treated to lunch including tossing of Yee Sang at Restaurant Liang Chen in Taman Perling together with 15 RCJB members and friends.

Datuk Teo and his team are planning another visit to an old folk’s Home in Kempas with 67 residents in March/April as well as to a Muslim Orphanage during Ramadan.

As the oldest and largest Rotary club in Johor, RCJB has been actively involved in helping the needy and underprivileged in Johor Bahru for the last 65 years, making a difference in our community though their social and community projects. - by Priya Manikam TI

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hsan Johor is aiming to build 50 houses for the less fortunate this year. The Johor Relief Organisation or widely known as Ihsan Johor is a Non-Governmental Organisation (NGO) established by the State government in 2016.

To date, the NGO has built 20 houses last year with the help of volunteers.

Founding President, Suhaimi Salleh who is also the ADUN for Kukup is hopeful of the organisation, with the assistance of active volunteers, building at least five houses a month, adding that more than 700 volunteers have registered with the organisation and more than 500 of them are active.

“Ihsan Johor not only build houses, but it also provides other forms of assistance through its Sekolah Ihsan Johor and Dapur Ihsan Johor,” he said. He also welcomed contributions from the public and corporate organisations, as well as their participation as volunteers.

Ihsan Johor’s main objective is to build new houses for those in need. Known as Ihsan Johor Rangers, the organisation’s troop of volunteers is open to people from all walks of life who are interested in home construction, providing temporary shelters and the critical repairing process of houses for unfortunate families and also victims of natural catastrophes.

Rumah Ihsan Johor is a house given to chosen families free of charge. There are a few prerequisites that need to be fulfilled as outlined by the Ihsan Johor Organisation. The existing house must be wrecked and ramshackle, unsafe to be inhabited, lack of or in absence of basic needs or severely damaged due to natural disasters. Other criteria include the unaffordability of the chosen family to purchase a new house or repair the current home. The household income is also taken into consideration and the new house must be built on the receiver’s own land. - by The Iskandarian TI

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Forest City Golf Resort, the First of its Kind in Gelang Patah 18 Holes designed by golfing legend Jack Nicklaus to turn the tide of local golfing tourism

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he RM1.8 Billion Forest City Golf Resort is set to become another prestigious golfing location in Johor, boosting the state into a premier golfing destination in the country, redefining golf tourism that is poised to ‘complete the golf holiday experience’ for any avid golfer.

With Johor boasting the highest number of golf courses in the country, the Forest City Golf Resort will feature three golf courses, a hotel as well as residential units with a cost of RM309 million to date. The first 18 holes of the tri-course was designed by Jack Nicklaus and his son, Jack Nicklaus II, and is expected to add more value to the development.

D at u k Othman Yusof, Executive Director of CGPV said the first golf course, named Forest City Legacy Golf Course will give golfers the experience and affordability not often

found at other golf courses.

“Having our first golf course designed by a legend already sets the benchmark for our landscape design at CGPV. When fully completed, the Golf Resort is expected to have a population of 1,300 residents while the five star hotel will cater to visitors from around the globe,” said Othman.

Aside from the three 18-hole golf courses, the area offers easy connectivity with a new direct expressway linking the resort to Forest City as well as the upcoming Kuala Lumpur Singapore High Speed Rail station that will be developed nearby.

“Its good news to golf enthusiasts from home and neighboring countries, providing them with a notable experience, as the course showcased the masterpiece of someone who has designed more than 300 golf courses

HM Sultan of Johor, Sultan Ibrahim Ismail with golfing legend Jack Nicklaus at the unveiling of Forest City Golf Resort at Forest City, Gelang Patah

around the world,” said Othman.

Course designer, Jack Nicklaus revealed that the golf course was fully man made, explaining that it was built from the ground

up with the amateur and pro golfers in mind.

“We had to work the 9th and 18th greens around a hill, and the golf course has beautiful river views. From playability’s

standpoint, the golf course we have designed is unique as golfers cannot find anything like it in Singapore or Malaysia,” said Jack.

This new development will be part of

Forest City’s vision of a green liveable city with global aspirations, completing the other current offerings in the area including residential, retail and leisure. - by Amin Khairuddin TI

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drill

Q&A

MONTHLY DRILL

What is new with Thistle Johor Bahru; Any refurbishments, new rooms, new packages, new menu and etc?

We are spearheading a team of department heads to create a 5-star ambience and capture the essence of the Hotel, which sees the likes of Royalty and Ministers as guests to various functions as well as staying in Thistle Johor Bahru itself. There are two aspects that we are looking into which is the software - the people, and hardware which is the property. We will be embarking on a number of refurbishments and will be commencing with the external façade paintings which will commence on the 1st of May 2018. This exercise would take approximately 5 months and would rejuvenate the image of the Hotel. On 1st January 2018 we commenced with our room renovations starting with the deluxe rooms that would give the rooms a new contemporary look. The renovations will be carried out in stages so as not to disrupt daily hotel operations.

One of the memorable things about Thistle Johor Bahru is the good food at your restaurants. Tell us more about your chefs and your restaurants.

There are 3 restaurants namely the Glass, Oasis and Steps which serve different types of cuisines from Western to continental and Asian. These restaurants are headed by our Executive Chef Mohamad Kamal Bin Damiri who has 9 years of experience also previously with the Thistle Hotel. I’d like to highlight why one of the restaurants was named the Glass. It’s simply for the fact the Restaurant’s tall floor ceiling glass windows that allow our guests to savour nature’s beauty and the picturesque poolside, not forgetting enjoying good food.

Rayan Charles Komatt General Manager Thistle Johor Bahru As the General Manager of Thistle Johor Bahru, Rayan is responsible for the operations and financial profitability of the hotel. Highly accountable for the company’s business and revenue, Rayan works closely with his sales and operations’ teams to implement marketing strategies and ensure operational objectives and profitability are strategically and creatively attained. With 33 years of experience entrenched in the hospitality industry of both resorts and business hotels, Rayan has attained a wealth of experience in applying different strategies to achieve operational, sales and marketing objectives.

His leadership skills encompass the strength of communication and team building.

We have hired a new Chef, Raja Mohd Hapis, who was previously with the Puteri Pacific Hotel for this restaurant who has the experience in working in international hotels. Currently he is working on a new a la carte menu to further tantalise customers with taste that is distinctive. The Oasis restaurant is situated in front of our pool and captures the changing colours of the skies and the underwater lighting punctuates the night with its own magic.

The restaurant serves Italian food and is very well known in Johor. The Head Chef here; Muhammad Hafizi bin Abdullah had previously worked with the Marriott Hotel in Putrajaya. One of its more popular specialities is the oven baked Pizza and the Roast leg of lamb and the various types of spaghetti.

How do you think Johor Bahru’s hospitality industry has been shaping up?

There have been a number of new hotels entering the market and this has increased competitiveness amongst the hotels and has given consumers a wider choice of hotels to choose from and therefore, service standards and facilities are being upgraded to meet consumers’ demands and thus increase their market share. The leisure market in Johor dominates 41% of the overall market mix. This segment comprises of both leisure group and Leisure FIT travellers. Corporate demand trails behind at 30%. Johor Bahru’s hospitality is infused with the foreign market source from China especially with a large number of mixed used development projects being undertaken by Chinese Developers.

What are the challenges that either Thistle or the hospitality industry as a

whole been facing?

The challenges facing the hospitality industry as a whole is with the increased number of rooms, whereby the rates are lowered to increase room bookings and this would have an adverse effect on 3-star and lower category hotels.

With 33 years of experience and coming from rank and file of the industry, what are the do’s and don’ts of the hospitality industry in your opinion?

Basically one of the key factors would be customer retention since customers have a wide range of hotels to choose from in Johor, and as such having good quality staff would make the difference as giving attention to guests would lead to retention in guests and create a new market segment, (i.e. retention of guests segment). So the difference would be having well trained

staff to meet and excel guests’ expectations.

It is also very important to also be humble and the higher you achieve your goals, the more humble you should be.

What is your mantra of training and keeping your staff motivated?

The staffs are always being motivated through various activities. For example, the management and staff luncheon which is held monthly, quarterly townhall meetings for all staff and weekly evening walks amongst a few to name.

What does Rayan do when he’s not busy being the GM of Thistle?

My favourite pastime is basically on restoration of classic cars! I currently have one car which is slowly being restored to its original condition and also watching classic movies of the 70’s and 80’s. 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

Team Panthera, Wins National Pride in International Challenge

At the Awards Ceremony in Abu Dhabi, UAE, Malaysia’s Team Panthera was First Runner-Up [Left] with champions, Team K-EVO from Portugal [Centre] and Australia’s Team Fair Dinkum as Second Runner-Up [Right]

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team of teenagers from SMK Seri Perling did their school, state and nation very proud when they emerged as First Runner-up in an engineering competition held in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, last December.

Organised by Jaguar Land Rover (JLR), the Four-by-Four (4x4) In Schools Technology Challenge aimed to introduce students the world over to Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) and get them interested in an engineering career.

This competition was brought to my attention by a proud parent who was thrilled that her daughter’s team was the proverbial underdogs who joined the national champion team to participate in the World Finals.

It required students to produce a four-wheel-drive Remote Control (RC) vehicle which is able to overcome obstacles similar to real off-road situations, built according to specifications outlined in the Technical Regulations.

Team Panthera members [L to R] Kenny Si Wei Yang, John Leong Yung En, Farhan Aiman Nordin and Joanne Khoo Jia Yu holding their trophies with teacher, Koh Poh Tan, at SMK Seri Perling

The team also had to seek sponsors, produce a Portfolio, prepare a verbal presentation to highlight key points of the project and assemble the vehicle for pit display.

Calling themselves Team Panthera after the scientific name of the Malayan tiger – Panthera tigris jacksoni – the members were John Leong Yung En (Team Leader), Joanne Khoo Jia Yu (Resource Manager), Jamie Lee Pei Lian, Kenny Si Wei Yang (Design Engineer), Farhan Aiman Nordin (Graphic Designer) and Hemlyn Hendry.

Farhan recalls that it was a normal school day when John met these friends and told them that their Information, Communications & Technology teacher, Khairul Ariffin, proposed they joined this national competition.

It was the first time the competition involved government schools as their inaugural event had picked students from international schools to represent the nation.

There were two competitions: the F1 Nationals and the 4x4 Nationals. When they discovered that the 4x4 Nationals challenged them to modify a 4x4 RC vehicle, they were just eager to learn something new.

After the team registered to participate, the In-Country Coordinator, Abdul Shakir Abu Samah, came to brief them about the requirements for the competition.

Fired up for the competition in September 2017, the team invested RM2,544 in a Starter Kit for a 1/18th scale RC vehicle dubbed, ECX Temper Rock Crawler.

With hardly any technical knowledge among them, the team garnered information from RC vehicle websites before they inspected their vehicle to assess its performance and considered the areas which needed modification and

news

improvement.

Based on the Technical Regulations, the vehicle must be equipped with an Ambient Light Sensor that would turn on headlights when light levels dip and also needed a Tilt Sensor that should produce a loud beeping signal when the vehicle tilted more than 30 degrees.

This was to be achieved by instructing or coding the microcontrollers that sense and control objects in the physical world, Members of Team Panthera with their winning commonly known by its brand Remote Control vehicle name, Arduino.

John, the electrical engineer, had to Through their partnership with learn the Arduino language that enabled him to Johor Crawler Team, 4x4 RC vehicle programme the microcomputer board and give enthusiasts, the team gained tips on how it specific instructions, like the headlights to to modify their RC vehicle and increase its turn on when it was dark or emit a buzz sound performance. when the vehicle tilted over a certain angle.

At the World Finals where the Their design engineer, Kenny, came prize was an internship programme up with ideas for vehicle body designs, some with JLR Engineers, 25 teams from 16 of which, made its way into their final design countries participated, with Malaysia for the Nationals. represented by two teams, both from In their quest for three-dimensional Johor.

(3D) printing facilities, they met freelance Team Panthera felt overawed to Computer Aided Drawing (CAD) specialist, compete against schools from nations Lim Kiat Liong, who helped to transfer their with more advanced technologies like pencil drawings into digital 3D drawings.

USA, UK, Australia and Brazil, but their Simultaneously, they met with teachers, parents and mentors kept potential sponsors to raise an estimated them focused.

RM5,000 for their Nationals’ project and also Instead of talking about the implemented a crowdfunding mechanism. improvements made on the vehicle English teacher, Koh Poh Tan, not only in their verbal presentation, they helped them put together their Portfolio shared their experiences about the but also offered her office for their project challenges encountered in fund-raising, preparation and accompanied them while they experimenting with the magnetic-ride worked into the wee hours of the morning! suspension, among other issues and At the Nationals held in Kuala Lumpur how this competition impacted their last September, it was nerve-wrecking to lives and career choices. watch the other teams receive awards for Best Friends and families watched the Sponsorship & Marketing, Best Social Media Awards Ceremony through live-streaming & Sustainability, Best Engineered Vehicle, Best and were thrilled to see Team Panthera Portfolio and Pit Display while their team’s winning against English-speaking nations, name was not called. to clinch the Best Presentation Award!

Everyone held their breaths when the It was sheer pandemonium at the Second Runner-Up was announced and then announcement of the top three winners, they were stunned to hear, “First Runner-Up, when they heard, “First Runner-Up, Team Team Five, Team Panthera!”

Panthera!”

Team Hurricane from SMK Agama Team K-EVO from Portugal was Johor Bahru clinched the National title. champion while Australia’s Team Fair The organiser’s Project Manager, Nelson Dinkum was Second Runner-Up. Vale, explained that Team Panthera was eligible I met Team Panthera with their to join the World Finals in Abu Dhabi, UAE but mentors, Mrs. Koh, and principal, Pn Hajjah they had to undertake their own expenses.

Subaidah Haleed, and saw a special bond, With an additional financial burden on born from working together in this lifetheir shoulders, the team struggled to reach a changing experience to develop teamwork decision on whether to join the World Finals. and a maturity beyond their years. TI Then Jamie and Hemlyn decided to leave the team while the remaining four members went on to the international challenge.

After their year-end exams, the team looked for potential sponsors while they completed Team Panthera with their trophies and teacher, Koh Poh Tan their project in the [Right] and SMK Seri Perling principal, Pn Hajjah Subaidah Haleed next seven weeks.

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news

Local Contribution to the Winter Olympics Brooklyn-based artist Nicholas Mahon worked with Johorian talents for Pyeongchang Winter Olympics Opening Ceremony puppets done, Red Circle Projects Sdn Bhd, a company based in Iskandar Puteri was chosen and with approximately 40 crew members assigned to the project with advice and technical support from their international experts, they set off to prototype

paper called hanji. In total, Red Circle Projects Sdn Bhd were contracted to build the 14 feature puppets for the show with the highlight being the White Tiger Mascot which stood at 7m long, 1.8m wide and over 3m in height - controlled by 6 puppeteers.

“Red Circle Projects has trained this local team over many years to great success. Seeing these amazing puppets in action you can see the strong aluminium frame from the welding team, to the beautifully carved wings in the man bird, to the

From Cover

fabric teams’ amazing work on the dragon, and the always impressive paint teams work on the Tiger,” said Brian Edmonds, Managing Director of Red Circle Projects Sdn Bhd. With offices and workshop at Pinewood Iskandar Malaysia Studios, Red Circle Projects’s trained professionals have seen their work overseas, with recent work being sent to Azerbaijan for the Opening Ceremony of the European Games and the Islamic Solidarity Games. by Edey Suresh TI

Highlight of the Winter Olypics: The White Tiger Mascot stands at 7m long, 1.8m wide and over 3m in height - controlled by 6 puppeteers

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he 2018 Winter Olympics was launched in a spectacular fashion on the 9th of February in PyeongChang, South Korea and a prominent feature of the breathtaking Opening Ceremony was huge animal puppets brought out as a tribute to the Korean culture.

The 2018 Winter Olympics is the first time 2 athletes represented Malaysia at the games. At the Opening Ceremony however there

were 14 large puppets representing Johor’s very own craftsmen. The “Land of Peace: was the Opening Ceremony’s first segment where puppets representing ancient Korean mythical creatures told a beautiful story live on stage.

Nicholas Mahon, a Brooklynbased artist was the man behind the monumental puppets that greeted the excited public in the first five minutes of the two-hour Opening Ceremony show. To get the puppets

Johor craftsmen working to create the framework for the puppets

and create the puppets for the rehearsals and for the performance of the Winter Olympics.

The local Johor craftsmen created the puppets made from aluminium frames with padded foam cladding that was then covered with handmade Korean

Making an Effort to Preserve the Environment RCJB focuses on preserving and caring for the environment

I

n a bid to preserve the environment, the Rotary Club of Johor Bahru (RCJB) was involved in “Tanjung Piai Cleanup & Pulau Kukup Sunset Stroll 2018” programme at Tanjung Piai, Pontian, Johor, with a key focus on Environment Awareness, Protection, Preservation and Education.

The programme was jointly organised with Tourism Malaysia, Ministry of Tourism and Culture Malaysia, Perbadanan Taman Negara Johor and Jebsen & Jessen (SEA) and was launched by YB Tuan Hj Suhaimi Bin Salleh, ADUN Kukup representing YB Datuk Tee Siew Kiong, Chairman of the Johor Executive Committee for Tourism, Trade and Consumer Affairs.

There were 152 participants in this project,

Around 40 local talents were trained by Red Circle Projects to create and complete the puppets

Local Entrepreneurs Go Global Indian Entrepreneurs Chambers of Malaysia , Johor Chapter (IECM) does inaugural awards event

Rotary Club Johor Bahru members at Tanjung Piai Clean-up & Pulau Kukup Sunset Stroll 2018

comprising mainly of students from 4 schools in Johor Bahru and Pontian.

The programme at Taman Negara Tanjung Piai kicked off with the planting of mangrove plants in the morning followed by a clean-up exercise. The 5 groups of participants collected a total of

RCJB members busy planting the mangroves

545 kg of rubbish during the 1-hour exercise! This was followed by a visit to Taman Negara Pulau Kukup for a guided tour of the mangroves, ecosystem and plant life there.

“During low tide, it’s disheartening to see rubbish especially plastic bottles thrown in the coastal mangrove areas. What we throw into the sea will end up ashore along the coastline! We must protect the environment,” said Datuk Teo Shiok Fu JP, President of RCJB. Tanjung Piai is at the southernmost point in Mainland Asia and is one of the few Ramsar sites in Malaysia. Pulau Kukup in Johor is regarded as one of the largest uninhabited mangrove forest reserves in the world. - by The Iskandarian TI

Deputy Minister of Home Affairs,Datuk Nur Jazlan Mohamed with IRDA’s Chief Executive Datuk Ismail Ibrahim officiating the event

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total of 30 I ndian entrepreneurs were recognised and awarded

by IECM in their inaugural Asean Bussiness Excellence Awards 2018 held in Pulai Springs Resort.

Officiated by Deputy Minister of Home Affairs, Datuk Nur Jazlan Mohamed and IRDA’s Chief Executive Datuk Ismail Ibrahim, the event awarded 11 local Indian entrepreneurs and 19 entrepreneurs from India, Nepal and Indonesia respectively.

Formed in 2012, IECM is a business chamber that uses networking and the networking

platform as a primary mode of sharing local and international industry movements, market happenings; knowledge, information gathering and opportunities acquisition.

Apart from the awards programme, the event also witnessed a MoU signing ceremony between an IECM member and Mahkota Medical Centre as well as an MoU signing between Indonesian and local counterpart.

Also present at the event was the Consulate General of Indonesia, Singapore, and Mauritius. - by Edey Suresh TI

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The Iskandarian ISSUE 67 | MAR 2018 Advertisement

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M A R 2 0 18

E D I S iN

ony – m r a Fifth H ingapore S Live in arch! this M

MAR 2018 | Page 2

The Iskandarian | WAVES Lifestyle

editor’s S note

ince the school holidays are around the corner, why not head to Clarke Quay in Singapore and be a part of Singapore Festival of Fun. The mega 3-in-1 Festival has three pillars of fun comprising Magners International Comedy Festival, Nickelodeon Fiesta and Clarke Quay StreetFest from 8th-18th March. Logon to www.theiskandarian.com for more details.

Get your movie tickets as Disney’s “A Wrinkle in Time,” an epic adventure based on Madeleine L’Engle’s timeless classic will take audiences across dimensions of time and space, examining the nature of darkness

Priya Manikam waves.lifestyle@gmail.com

versus light and ultimately, the triumph of love. Also, as Easter approaches, be sure to catch Peter Rabbit’s antics mid-March.

Let’s get our hands sloppy as the Magistrate team brings us B.A.M Burgers from downtown Johor Bahru. Enjoy fuss free dining where the setting is homely and laid back.

Turn over the page and continue reading what Georgia has to offer and I hope it inspires you enough to start planning a trip there.

As always, for those wishing to share their fashion collection, travel tales, or like

MUSIC UPDATES

By The Iskandarian

Fifth Harmony – Live In Singapore

Global Pop sensations make their anticipated return to Singapore this March

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AMC Productions is excited to announce that global pop sensation, Fifth Harmony will perform in Singapore, as part of their latest ‘PSA tour’ on Wednesday, 14th March, 2018 at Zepp@BigBox Singapore!

After months of build-up and anticipation, multi-platinum selling group Fifth Harmony’s third album Fifth Harmony (via Syco/Epic Records) blasted to the top of the charts around the world upon its release on 25th August 2017. The group’s self-titled album was the #1 pop and second-best overall selling album in the U.S., debuted at #4 on the U.S. Billboard Top 200 chart and peaked at #1 on iTunes in more than 50 countries including Greece, Italy, Mexico, Portugal, Spain, Sweden, Argentina, Brazil, Chile and Columbia. In addition to instant fan acclaim – and frenzy, as Fifth Harmony’s loyal Harmonizers immediately launched the album to the top spots on both Facebook and Twitter’s worldwide trending topics – critics have also praised the record, with USA Today hailing it as “the strongest work yet of the group’s career” and Rolling Stone calling it the group’s “most cohesive album yet.”

Fans can expect to hear songs from their highly anticipated upcoming album, FIFTH HARMONY including their lead single, ‘Down’ feat. Gucci Mane, plus all the hits from their sophomore album 7/27 such as mega hit, the ARIA accredited 6 x Platinum ‘Work from Home’, Platinum second single, ‘All In My Head (Flex)’ and top 20 radio hit, ‘That’s My Girl’.

The album’s goldcertified lead single “Down” ft. Gucci Mane is the group’s fastest rising single ever on

iTunes, hitting number t wo within moments of its June release. The track marked Fifth Harmony’s best sales debut and was the #1 most added song at both Top 40 and Rhythmic Radio.

Fifth Harmony’s a l r e a d y successful 2017 kicked off with a performance at the People’s Choice Awards and has already brought the group wins across major award shows, including “Favourite Group” for the second year in a row at the People’s Choice Awards, three wins at the iHeartRadio Music Awards, two wins (Favourite Music Group & Fiercest Fans) at the Radio Disney Music Awards, the two top honours – “Favourite Music Group” and “Favourite Song” – at the Nickelodeon Kids’ Choice Awards, four wins at the Teen Choice Awards including Harmonizers for Choice Fandom, and, the cherry on top, a MTV Video Music Award Moon Person for Best Pop Video.

This follows the recordbreaking success of Fifth Harmony’s sophomore album 7/27. “Work from Home,” the album’s 5x platinum certified first single, earned Fifth Harmony their first top 10 hit on the Billboard Hot 100, notching the top spot on both the Billboard Rhythmic and Pop Songs charts.

Fifth Harmony’s global 7/27 Tour began its North American leg that summer, hitting over 30 cities before heading to Europe in the fall and continuing on to Asia in early 2017. In 2015, Fifth Harmony released their

debut album, Reflection, which debuted at No. 5 on the Billboard 200 and has since been certified Gold. Reflection includes two platinum records, “BO$$” and “Sledgehammer” in addition to the quadrupleplatinum success of the single, “Worth It.” Fifth Harmony is made of Ally Brooke, Normani Kordei, Dinah Jane and Lauren Jauregui.

Tickets may be purchased via the official ticketing agent SISTIC, at www.sistic.com.sg, and via the SISTIC Hotline (65) 63485555 and at all SISTIC Authorised Agents. Group tickets start from S$128.00 and standard ticket is sold at S$138 (excluding SISTIC booking fee) with priority entry tickets sold at S$168.00 which includes a mystery gift, excluding SISTIC booking fee.

For more information, please visit: https://fifthharmony.com/ or lamcproductions.com LAMC Productions is cofounded by Lauretta Alabons and Ross Knudson, and is a leading concert and events promoter in Singapore. Since 2001, LAMC Productions has organised major concert events for the general public and exclusive private concerts for prestigious companies.

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 would like to wish HM Sultan of Johor, Sultan Ibrahim Ismail a very Happy Birthday! Daulat Tuanku!

Priya

MAR 2018 | Page 3

The Iskandarian | WAVES Lifestyle

Why Giving Space in Your Relationship is Important? – Part 1

D Rose Osman has intuitive skills in hacking potentials in human energy for success and healing.

She coaches through One-toOne sessions, group sessions and via E-courses on Udemy.com.

yourpersonalmotivator BucketOfRoses www.roselifecoach.com

o you know a loving relationship is not just about spending time together? It is also about giving space to each other. In other words, we seek balance and harmony between being together in the same space and being alone in our own space too. The question is; how far do we understand the need to give each other space compassionately?

For example, what can we learn from the movies or dramas? Usually, we may observe couples giving each other space when they are in an argument. We do that naturally, so the physical and energy ‘body’ can heal after the

friction on the energy level. However, the mind is conditioned to think differently. It usually believes that giving space is not a way to build a loving relationship. We probably think that spending time alone only leads us to break ups but what if having an alone moment to yourself is as important as being together? What if we could still love because we know when is the right time to spend moments together and when is not?

What if, a balance relationship is about ‘you, me and us equally’?

Me Time There are many ways why you should give space

to yourself and to your loved ones frequently.

The benefits are not just on the emotional level but also physically. However, it is best if couples can do it consciously. Giving each other space should come from a deep sense of love and not from arguments. For example; a husband should give space to the wife to relax because he recognises her need to rejuvenate. This can be a healthy practise in a busy family where the husband/wife gives space out of love and not because the other party demands the space which usually appears in a form of argument.

In the next issue, we will explore the benefits of spending time alone in a relationship.

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

Source: The Walt Disney Company Malaysia

A WRINKLE IN TIME Genre: Epic adventure Release date: 8th March 2018 Cast: Oprah Winfrey, Reese Witherspoon, Mindy Kaling, Gugu Mbatha-Raw, Michael Peňa and introducing Storm Reid with Zach Galifianakis and Chris Pine Director: Ava DuVernay Producer: Jim Whitaker, Catherine Hand Screenplay by: Ryan Coogler & Joe Robert Cole

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eg Murry is a typical middle school student struggling with issues of selfworth who just want to fit in. The daughter of two world-renowned physicists, she is intelligent and uniquely gifted, as is Meg’s younger brother, Charles Wallace, but she has yet to realise it for herself. Complicating matters is the mysterious disappearance of Mr. Murry, which has left Meg

PETER RABBIT

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eature adaptation of Beatrix Potter’s classic tale of a rebellious rabbit trying to sneak into a farmer’s vegetable garden. In this tale, Peter Rabbit’s feud with the McGregor family reaches new heights as he and Thomas McGregor compete for the affections of a kind animal lover who lives next door.

devastated and her mother broken-hearted. Charles Wallace introduces Meg and her fellow classmate Calvin to three celestial beings (Mrs. Which, Mrs. Whatsit and Mrs. Who) who have journeyed to Earth to help search for their father, and together they embark on their formidable quest.

Travelling via a wrinkling of time and space known as tessering, they are transported to worlds beyond their imagination where

they must confront a powerful evil force. To make it back home to Earth, Meg must face the darkness within herself in order to harness the strength necessary to defeat the darkness rapidly enveloping the Universe. Through one girl’s transformative journey led by three celestial guides, we discover that strength comes from embracing one’s individuality and that the best way to triumph over fear is to travel by one’s own light.

Source: Sony Pictures Malaysia

Genre: Live Action/ Animation Release date: 15th March 2018 Cast: James Corden, Rose Byrne, Daisy Ridley, Elizabeth Debicki and Margot Robbie Director: Will Gluck Producers: Will Gluck, Zareh Nalbandian Based upon the books by: Beatrix Potter

MAR 2018 | Page 4

The Iskandarian | WAVES Lifestyle

018 R2 MA

dar Calen ts n of Eve JB, 1st Mac

Journey to Fit @ Dataran Bandaraya

2nd Mac • Chap Goh Mei • Carousell X Neübazaar Vol#7 @ Jalan Padi Emas 1/8

JB, 3rd Mac Edible Festival @ Edible Park, Medini Green Parks

S’pore, 3rd – 4th Mac Drum with Us! @ Esplanade Forecourt Garden, S’pore

JB, 5th Mac Johor Chingay 2018 @ Jln Trus

8th Mac Women’s Day

S’pore, 8th – 18th Mac Singapore Festival of Fun @ Clarke Quay, S’pore

S’pore, 10th Mac

travel Discover Georgia – Part Two From beautiful architectures to picturesque mountains and delicious cuisine, Georgia is the place to be Gudauri Ski Resort

By Priya Manikam waves.lifestyle@gmail.com

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fter our pit stop at Ananuri Monastery, we finally reached Gudauri ski resort, located on the south-facing plateau of The Greater Caucasus Mountain Range in Georgia. It’s a popular skiing spot with December being its peak season. There is something for everyone to do regardless of age, and whether you like to ski or not.

If you haven’t got any ski gear or boots on, you may rent at the resort at extremely reasonable prices.

After having a fun day out at the ski resort, it was time to head back to Tbilisi for a good night’s sleep.

Malay Duets Rewind @ Esplanade Outdoor Theatre, S’pore

JB, 12th Mac Mezzotono a Johor Bahru @ DoubleTree by Hilton JB

S’pore, 14th Mac Fifth Harmony Live in S’pore @ Zepp@ BigBox S’pore

JB, 17th Mac • National Youth Chess Championship @ JB City Square • Karnival Pendidikan MARA @ Angsana Mall JB

JB, 18th Mac TJ Cove Garden Wedding Experience @ Kg. Teluk Jawa

23rd Mac HM Sultan of Johor’s Birthday

The magnificent Holy Trinity Cathedral (Sameba Cathedral) The following day, we decided to D-I-Y and explore popular attractions.

From our hotel, we walked to one of the largest church in the world – The Holy Trinity Cathedral or locally known as the Sameba Cathedral. Definitely worth a visit

30th Mac Good Friday

JB, 31st Mac WFF SEA Star Fitness 2018 @ Tripple X Club, Holiday Plaza

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

Peace Bridge – a popular landmark in Tbilisi

Peace Bridge – accessible via Rike Park we ventured to Mtskheta; one of the oldest due to its beautiful architecture and vast landscaped area. Thereafter, we passed cities in Georgia by a local bus from the by the Presidential Palace before walking busy bus station at Didube. It’s about 20 across the Peace Bridge and Rike Park for – 30 minutes ride and you know you are in Mtskheta once you see the large old a cable car ride (1 GEL p.p) to Narikala Fortress which was built in the 4th century. cathedral in the middle of the city centre.

Mtskheta is located approximately Take the cable car overlooking Tbilisi town as it’s the most convenient way 20 kilometres (12 miles) north of Tbilisi at to go to the fort and also see the Mother the confluence of the Aragvi River.

Due to its historical significance of Georgia statue (Kartlis Deda). If you’re and several cultural monuments, the a bit adventurous, climb down the steep “Historical Monuments of Mtskheta” fortress and head to the Botanical Gardens became a UNESCO World Heritage Site underneath.

Also nearby, is the Sulphur Baths at in 1994. As the birthplace and one of the Abanotubani area which is in the middle most vibrant centres of Christianity in of the old town neighbourhood. It’s a Georgia, Mtskheta was declared as the fascinating sight to see the brick domes “Holy City” by the Georgian Orthodox and the water here which springs from Church in 2014.

Do visit Svetitskhoveli Cathedral the ground at about 40 degrees is full of (built in 11th century) and Jvari Monastery natural therapeutic minerals!

After that, dine at the local (6th century) as you will get a medieval restaurants dotted along Kote Afkhasi feel at this place. We then headed back to Street and try tasty treats such as the boat Tbilisi by the minibus, and it was time to shaped ‘Kachapuri Adjari’ (cheese filled say goodbye to Georgia.

Expand your horizons and start bread with egg) or ‘Shkmeruli’ (sizzling chicken in garlic). On the way back, stop venturing to places you’ve never been to

by Baratashvili Bridge (Bridge of Love) to or been eyeing and start making plans and take pictures with the bronze figures for get those bags packing! TI the perfect Instagram moment!

In the evening we went back to Rustaveli area by the metro to buy some souvenirs, ‘Churchkella’ (colourful walnuts candies) and the unforgettable ‘Kachapuri’ (cheese pastr y) followed by ‘Mtsvadi’ (meat / chicken skewers) opposite the hotel.

The next day, 11th Century old Svetitskhoveli Cathedral at Mtskheta

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Seas of Green… Grass! SEAGRASS… Serina Rahman Serina Rahman is the co-founder of Kelab Alami and a Visiting Fellow at the ISEAS-Yusof Ishak Institute, Singapore.

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estled between Singapore and the southwestern shore of Johor are vast meadows of seagrass that gets revealed only at the very lowest tides. This is a unique environment that is extremely special and vital for local Seagrass meadow at sunset

Knobbly sea star

fishermen and seafood lovers. ‘Beting’ is the local word for seagrass meadow – and beting Tg. Kupang in Johor is the longest contiguous seagrass meadow in the whole of Peninsular Malaysia.

Johor also has other seagrass meadows on the east coast, but to see them, you have to take a dive. In the west, it is possible to walk out at low tides to experience all the wonders that the habitat has to offer.

Seagrass meadows are home to countless marine critters. This is where you get to witness sea cucumbers, nudibranchs, sea hares and sea stars of myriad shapes and colours without having to even swim.

More importantly, this ecosystem supports the local fishery. Seagrass meadows are

where fishes go to breed, feed and find shelter when young. This simply means that if there are no seagrass, there is no more seafood for us to eat! Local fishermen depend on these areas for their daily catch – which includes our usual favourites of flower crab, flathead lobster, prawns and even some bigger fishes which comes into the area to feed.

The seagrass meadow in this part of the Tebrau Straits also supports endangered species such as seahorses and dugongs, as well as hawksbill and green turtles – the natural wonders of the Iskandar Region which is definitely worth exploring. For more information on Kelab Alami and its guided seagrass tours, log on to kelabalami. weebly.com TI

Thorny sea cucumber

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Ashikin Abd Rahim Legal Adviser MECA Employers Consulting Agency Sdn Bhd shikin@meca.com.my

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ecently, a screenshot of a WhatsApp message which went viral on social media had initiated fury among social media users. The incriminating WhatsApp message had caused JD Sports Malaysia to be under fire after an outlet supervisor barred its Muslim employees to go on their prayer breaks. Muslim employees were forbidden from

work

No hijab! No prayers!

“RACIST” Practices

By Employers their prayer breaks or they would need to hand in their resignation letters.

Outraged netizens claimed it as a disgraceful act and urged the Company to take immediate action against the supervisor. On the other end, many also contended that such situation resulted from employees who took advantage of the long prayer breaks. In response to this issue, JD Sports Malaysia made an official statement on social media and made it clear that it was not part of the company’s policy and it was solely an action of one individual.

There are companies that opt out to have prayer breaks as this practice is deemed to be an issue since there are some who tend to abuse the 10-15 minute break. Legally speaking, companies in Malaysia don’t have the express obligation to provide prayer breaks.

However, companies choose to provide this break as it falls within the need to respect the multi-racial and religious environment. When the situation gets out of hand, employees who tend to prolong this 15 minute break to smoke or loiter around is giving the Company

no other choice but to withdraw this benefit which was given out of respect in the first place.

This was not the first time the news was flooded with viral policies considered as discrimination at workplace on the grounds of religion. Previously, the issue of the ‘no-hijab’ policy made

it to the headlines where it sparked numerous mixed feedbacks on the controversial policy.

In response, the government was urged to amend the existing legislation (Employment Act 1955) to have a clearer guideline on discrimination at workplace, on the grounds of race and religion.

Private sectors in Malaysia have to be more aware and cautious in implementing rules and practices that may amount to discrimination at workplace. At the same time, individuals i.e. employees have to desist from taking advantage of any extra benefits that a Company provides. TI

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Accumulating Wealth Tips & Tricks

Five Things to Do During a Correction mediocre. Instead, wear the investor hat and identify the share price’s support and resistance. This would give you an idea of your loss cutting point or entry point.

Tey Bin Yuen Binyuen is the founder of BY Enrich Resources and the author of ‘Life beyond the Comfort Zone’ and ‘Profit from Share Investment’. His books are available in major bookstores in Malaysia, Singapore or online http://www.teybinyuen.com/ profitfromshareinvestment

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y friend always said, “ The stock market is like a box of chocolates. You never know what you’re gonna get.”

Sure enough, when the US stock market started breaking new highs in January 2018, the Dow Jones Index plunged 660 points on 2nd February, followed by another fall of 1175 points the next day, signifying the beginning of a correction.

A correction is defined as a price decline (for stocks, bonds, commodities, indexes and so forth) of at least 10% from the peak. For instance, the Dow Jones Composite Index had fallen to 23360 from its peak of 26617.

That was a decline of 3257

Disclaimer: The companies or strategies mentioned 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.

points or 12.2% decline.

So what caused the correction? A few possible factors have been reported, such as the high budget deficit, increased bond yield, higher inflation, higher chance of interest rate hike and etc. Regardless, I believe the main reason is that we have not had a correction for a long time. The Dow Jones Index was only around 18000 points a year ago. Since Donald Trump became the US President in November 2016, it has gone up steadily for 15 months and surpassed 26000 points in January 2018. It was an increase of 8000 points, or a 30% rise within a year. Therefore, is

invest

it really a surprise to have a correction? Probably not!

The next question is what should we do? Before we discuss that, let’s see how our portfolio has fared when there was panic selling everywhere. Here is our portfolio summary on 13 February 2018: As you can see, while the table has showed a gain of 268% since November 2015, the three counters we bought lately have gone into red due to poor market sentiment. Since the whole market is performing equally bad, we adopted a ‘stay put’ strategy and did not perform any buying or selling transaction this month.

Meantime, to update our portfolio, there were share split and bonus share exercise done by JHM and Masteel respectively. For JHM, there was a subdivision of every one existing ordinary share into two ordinary shares, whereas Masteel has given one bonus share for three existing shares. Both counters’ share prices and quantity have been adjusted accordingly.

Now, let’s look at the five things we can do during such volatility: 1) Never panic sell Most people panic sell and if you do what everybody does, you’ll get what everybody gets, which is

2) Set your Bottom Line The reason you may stay calm amid uncertainty is that you know how much you can afford to lose. For example, you normally set a loss cutting point at 10%, but in such a volatile period, you can increase up to 20%, depending on your risk appetite. As long as you have a bottom line and monitor the macro condition, you’d feel a sense of control.

3) Look at how the Dow Jones, S&P and NASDAQ perform The three above indexes represent the macro condition.

Since this global correction is caused by the US stock selling down, it’s important to know if these indexes are still in good shape, such as if they are still supported by the critical Moving Averages (MA) MA50. If the answer is ‘yes’, it’s a healthy correction and

the uptrend would likely to continue but if the answer is ‘no’, you need to be a bit more reserved and observe before make any decisions.

4) Act as a contrarian You’d only have the courage to act differently if you understand how things work.

If you know the macro remains intact and your company’s prospect remains bright, you will be confident to buy when everyone else sells.

Alternatively, you may consider switching.

5) Switching In bad times, good companies would exert certain resilience, as people are less likely to let go because of their sound fundamentals. Therefore, if you have identified those companies, it’s a good time to switch from those underperforming companies to good ones.

In essence, real gold is not afraid of fire. Do realise that market correction and volatility are part of the game.

Let us keep on learning and enjoy the ride. TI

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education Women Icons Malaysia Award to UBA’s Dr. Shirley Tan Sie Ling

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h e Wo m e n I co n s Summit is a thought leadership, networking and recognition platform that celebrates and honours the accomplishments and contributions of women who have excelled in different spheres of life. In this list of recognition, the CEO of Universal Business Academy (UBA), Dr. Shirley Tan Sie Ling was presented the Women Icons Malaysia award at a glittering ceremony hosted in Kuala Lumpur.

Dr. Shirley was among a total of 19 Women Achievers from Malaysia representing a diverse category of professions and sectors who were recognised at the inaugural Women Icons Malaysia Summit & Awards.

T

he University of Reading Malaysia has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Tamkang University, a private tertiary institution from Taiwan, paving the way for collaboration in scientific research and innovation in the area of construction and digital technology.

The MoU was signed by the University of Reading Malaysia’s Provost and CEO, Professor Tony Downes and the Director of the Taiwan-Malaysia Construction Project Management and Digital Technology International Centre (DiTIC) from Tamkang University, Associate Professor Dr. Fan SuLing, during a ceremony held at

Conceptualised and hosted

by Singapore-headquartered Business Excellence and Research Group Pte Ltd (BERG), the event is part of a continuing initiative following the success of the Asian Women Icons Summit & Awards in Singapore in 2017.

Datin Paduka Marina Mahathir was the Guest of Honour and Keynote Speaker at the occasion. She called upon women achievers to step up and become role models for the younger generation.

With over 20 years of experience in the education sector, Dr. Shirley has gone from being an educator to being a successful entrepreneur. UBA was established with a mission to

make the international education programmes affordable to all learners. To date, UBA has more than 2,000 students from all over the world who have matriculated in their programmes and have successfully accumulated their internationally recognised programmes. Currently, Dr. Shirley has also successfully established her UBA institution at the Philippines and Indonesia.

Women Icons aim to celebrate and acknowledge the accomplishments and contributions of women trailblazers in Malaysia who have excelled in different spheres of life as they take on multiple roles in society, boardrooms or at home that make a significant difference.

Dr. Shirley Tan Sie Ling, CEO of Universal Business Academy (UBA)

Winners of the award came from a broad spectrum of areas such as Education, Banking & Finance,

Healthcare & Wellness and Personal Grooming to name just a few. - by The Iskandarian TI

University of Reading Malaysia Establishes Partnership with Taiwanese University the University of Reading Malaysia (UoRM) campus in EduCity, Iskandar Puteri, Johor.

The event was witnessed by members of UoRM’s School of the Built Environment and staff and students from Tamkang University, who were on a two-day tour of EduCity.

The MoU signing also marks the official launch of DiTIC – a hub designed for the parties to work together on technological developments, research projects,

information and talent exchanges, and to provide professional services in Southeast Asia.

The Director of DiTIC from UoRM, Dr. Chai Chang Saar said, “Tamkang University has an excellent reputation in automation and together with our expertise in digital construction from the University of Reading Malaysia’s School of the Built Environment, we are confident we can achieve positive results in scientific research and advancements in construction

MIM Signs Industrial Partnership with Raffles and Reading University

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edini Iskandar Malaysia Sdn. Bhd. (MIM) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with two esteemed educational bodies in Iskandar Puteri, namely the University of Reading Malaysia (UoRM) and Raffles University Iskandar (RUI), signifying a bold move between MIM and the two universities in enhancing the talent pool and readying graduates for the industry.

The signing ceremony took place at Medini 6, Iskandar Puteri with Dr James Tee, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of MIM present with Interim Vice Provost, Dr Samantha Weston representing UoRM and President, Professor Dr. Graeme Britton representing RUI. “It is our vision to make Medini City a healthy, smart, sustainable and livable city. We are upholding Medini City as the benchmark for young talents to learn the ropes of developing a city. Our collaboration with various universities will facilitate this learning process, whereby we will closely involve the universities, talents and the industry to produce a quality and skillful workforce that will elevate Medini City and Iskandar Puteri to greater heights,” said Dr. James.

The first intake will be in May 2018 where undergraduates from each

university will undergo an internship programme in the fields of design, accounts, business and quantity survey which will run from three to six months.

“We are grateful for their support and commitment to boost the applied learning opportunities of our students.

MIM has been instrumental in developing a smart and integrated city and we are thrilled to be working together in shaping an environment that is beneficial to all,” said Dr. Samantha Weston.

“RUI develops students so they graduate as young professionals. Students undertake projects and internships in industry to gain the requisite experience,” said Professor Dr. Graeme. - by Amin Khairuddin TI

and digital technology.”

DiTIC is funded by the Ministry of Technology and Science of Taiwan. The core research areas of DiTIC focus on

Building Information Modelling (BIM), Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR), Big Data and Smart Cities. - by The Iskandarian TI

Elevating the Standard of English Language

MOE announced the introduction of foreign textbooks in English language classes at public schools

N (From Left) Interim Vice Provost, Dr Samantha Weston, Dr James Tee with Professor Dr. Graeme Britton

Group photo with UoRM School of the Built Environment staff and visitors from Tamkang University

ot long ago, Her Majesty Raja Zarith Sofiah Binti Sultan Idris Shah, Permaisuri Johor, had called for concerted efforts to create opportunities for the young people to study the English Language as she believes serious and urgent intervention was needed because of the dramatic and drastic decline in the proficiency of both written and spoken English among younger Malaysians in general.

Two years ago, the Ministry of Education (MOE) launched the Roadmap for English Language Education in Malaysia spanning 2015 to 2025 to align the standard of English taught in schools and institutions of higher learning with the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) — an international standard that focuses on producing learners who can communicate and interact in any language.

CEFR spells out the

learning outcomes/skills (e.g. understand, read, write, and communicate) students should attain at every stage of learning. Higher Education Minister Datuk Seri Idris Jusoh, in his 2018 mandate, proposed that the Malaysia English Assessment (MEA) be CEFR-aligned and integrated into the communication component of the iCGPA in public universities.

To accelerate efforts to elevate the standard of English in schools, MOE announced the introduction of foreign textbooks in English Language classes at public schools starting this year as part of its initiative to align the English Language curriculum with CEFR standards. This move involves those from preschool, Years One and Two pupils, and Forms One and Two students.

Although the move received mixed reviews but many others strongly feel it is a necessary move to enhance the English Language proficiency.

“The use of foreign textbooks is cost-efficient and their contents offer a wider acceptance of other cultures and open students’ minds, providing exposure to the use of English Language in both foreign and local context,” said Siti Bahijah Bakhtiar, Senior Assistant Director in the Research Development and Innovation Centre at the Teacher Training Institute of Malaysia in Cyberjaya.

According to Deputy Education Minister Datuk P. Kamalanathan, the ministry would buy off-the-shelf books to cater to schools because locally produced textbooks are not able to meet the new CEFR levels. Teachers are being trained and the books were already available in all schools.

However, learning languages involve more than just reading textbooks, and it is imperative to note that language is a skill; the more we practise the better we become. - by Priya Manikam TI

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First Duathlon at Educity

450 athletes including a dozen commandos flocked to EduCity to compete among other participants for titles and thrills

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he inaugural E d u C i t y Duathlon took 450 endurance race athletes on several scenic routes on their run and cycle legs in Iskandar Puteri, Johor.

Attracting athletes from Malaysia, Singapore, Philippines, Thailand, New Zealand and England, the Duathlon helped promote a healthy lifestyle as well as a healthy competition among the athletes to battle it out for the top titles.

Mayor of Iskandar Puteri, Haji Adib Azhari bin Daud flagged off

Mohd Zuhar Ismail receives the Sprint Overall Men Champion trophy from Joanne Oei

the Endurance Race participants at 7am, and athletes quickly rushed off to complete a 10 km running leg, 60 km cycle

Allison Yee (in pink shirt) wins the Endurance Overall Women Champion title, beating eight other athletes

sprint and another 10 km run to arrive triumphantly at the finishing line.

The Sprint category participants were flagged off by EduCity Managing Director, Joanne Oei, set out to complete the a less enduring race of finishing a 5 km run, 30 km cycle and another 5 km run before earning their Finisher medals.

Mohd Azuan Asmuni and Alisson Yee won the respective Men and Women Endurance Overall Champion titles

B.A.M runs with a self-service concept, where our order is taken with payment made at the counter before the food is delivered to our table.

Mayor of Iskandar Puteri and EduCity Managing Director jointly flag-off duathlon athletes

and Mohd Zuhar Ismail and Tan Pei Lin also took home well-deserved titles in the Sprint category.

Mohd Halif Husin, the winner of Men Open (18-29) category, said he consistently competed for the podium spot with Mohd Azuan who is also his colleague at Kem Sungai Udang in Melaka. He further added that there were 12 other comrades from the camp who completed the duathlon, and they

regularly travelled as a group and put their endurance power to the test.

The Iskandarian met these squad commandos during their Eco-Ride getaway at Kampung Peta, near Taman Negara EndauRompin a couple of years ago and they definitely have the strength and stamina for these kinds of races! “ The duathlon tested athletes’

determination to reach the finishing line and EduCity is proud to gather such active sportsmen and sportswomen today”, said Joanne.

Joanne gave away the cash prizes and medals to deserving winners and said that more sporting activities are in the pipeline for 2018, including the muchawaited EduCity Sundown Marathon, Kickboxing, Swimming and Rugby fests. - by Harish Mustak TI

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PROPERTY INSIGHT

It was reported that the government, via the National Housing Department, has proposed lowering the current housing loan pg 25 interest rate PROPERTY

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RESIDENTIAL PROJECTS

APARTMENTS

VILLAS

CONDOMINIUMS

OFFICE/RETAILSPACE

UEM Sunrise: Serimbun UEM Sunrise recently launched Serimbun, its low-density development pg 27 nestled within the booming Bukit Indah township of Iskandar Puteri

Read this article on our website

New CEO

Seri Austin

UMLand’s Iskandar Halal Park announces new CEO

Festive cheer to the needy

Connect with us on Facebook

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trata living is fast becoming a way of life in Malaysia; currently about 30% of the country’s population is living in stratatitle buildings. The term strata was first introduced legally in 1985 in response to the mushrooming of multi-strorey structures as a result of urbanisation taking place in major cities like Kuala Lumpur, Penang, and Johor Bahru.

It is vital to understand the function of the management bodies stipulated in the Strata Act to get a better comprehension of strata living. Beyond the initial management period by the developer upon vacant possession, there are three bodies that a strata owner needs to know: the Joint Management Body (JMB), the Management Corp (MC) and the Subsidiary Management Corp (Sub MC). The members of the MC and Sub MC are made up of solely strata owners while the JMB involves the joint participation of the developer and owners. Both the JMB and MC have the same function, which is to manage the common properties of a strata development. The JMB is formed within one year from when vacant possession is delivered to the strata owners pending the issuance of strata titles, while the MC is formed upon the issuance of strata titles. The MC comes into effect once the first Annual General Meeting (AGM) is conducted.

To get a better understanding of the Act, we speak to Alastair McCracken, Director, Edgenta TMS Sdn. Bhd, a township and community management services company set up for the Iskandar Puteri region via joint venture by Medini Iskandar Malaysia Sdn Bhd, UEM Sunrise Berhad and UEM Edgenta Berhad. Under the brand “Communa”, the company uses its community web portals (www.communa.my) to provide residents of Iskandar Puteri with instant access to smart services, community events and information, online payments as well as a range of lifestyle services and solutions.

What are the benefits of strata living and what are the rights granted to the buyers under the Strata Management Act (SMA)?

Malaysia has some of the largest and most complex developments in the world. We have a lot of mixed used developments which blend residential, commercial and retail in one mixed complex. The Strata Law helps these owners, often with different needs and objectives, to live and work cohesively.

Strata Law is about ensuring all owners are treated with fairness and equity and giving all owners an equal voice in how they shape their community.

What is the role of the JMB in a mixed and large development?

The new Strata Law 757 introduces improved regulation on the handover and transition of a project to joint management of the Developer and owners – the JMB. According to the Strata Management Act 2013 (SMA 2013), the first AGM of the JMB must be convened no later than 12 months from the delivery of vacant possession. The intention of the law is to ensure the developers clearly declare the management arrangements to their community upfront. Developers should ensure that everything from their marketing collaterals to their Sales Agreements explain to buyers in detail the intended

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Understanding Strata Living and Quality of Management operation of their community. In the case of mixed use projects, this can be quite complicated, with the introduction of Subsidiary Management Corporations (sub MC’s) for each parcel or component of the project - and so the declarations by the developer must be transparent, clear and definite What are the powers granted to the MC or Sub MC under the Act? The function of the management bodies is unquestionably to manage the development to maximise the long term value of real estate for all owners within the community. This is more than just delivering maintenance services to its common property. The management bodies collect ‘Service Charges’ and ‘Contributions to Sinking Fund’, to cover the costs of managing the community. The management bodies manage the way in which these funds are spent. The MC can also form Sub MC’s to oversee different parcels of complex developments.

They can also make additional by-laws to provide guidelines for owners and visitors that maintain standards, behaviour and access rights within the community.

In many countries, the Strata Law is further developed, and the role and purpose of Sub MC’s are declared early, and formed simultaneously to the formation of the MC. The holistic role of all MC’s and Sub MC’s is to protect the interest of all the owners and to ensure the value of the entire development.

What are the general issues faced in Strata Living?

Separate objectives of ownership is the cause of the greatest conflict in community living in Iskandar. The needs of an owner/investor to maximise his income are often quite different to those of residents who make the community their permanent home. This leads to conflict in the community, at meetings and misunderstandings of the rights of owners. One of the biggest issues is ignorance of the Strata Law and misunderstanding of the rights and obligations of owners in a community. Often, Malaysian owners lack an understanding of the new Strata Law 757, while foreign owners often incorrectly assume that Malaysian Law is the same as they are used to back home. Malaysia’s Strata Law is quite specific.

It codifies and regulates matters that are usually open to interpretation in other jurisdictions. A clear understanding of the Strata Law, its application and intent is needed for communities to succeed.

How do you resolve the issue of collecting maintenance fees from foreign owners?

First and foremost, legal recognition of electronic means as a proper service of notices and introduction of electronic voting platforms as seen in Strata Acts in many countries is necessary to enable foreign owners to participate in their community. The current laws in Malaysia require physical posting of notices on notice boards which poses a lot of challenges in buildings with a majority of foreign owners. Dubai faced similar issues to Iskandar Malaysia where a majority of the buyers were foreigners and they overcame that problem by recognising electronic means of communications as a valid process.

Some say that certain requirements under the current Strata Act may not be practical- do you agree?

I don’t agree. The local Strata Law is very practical but adaptation to changing needs is key and as I was saying, the recognition of electronic means of communication is just one practical change that could be implemented.

The law also allows up to 14 people to sit on the MC. This is interpreted that 14 committee members is best. But, in fact, so many members can hinder the process of reaching a decision. In a mature strata environment, the appointed Strata Manager should act on behalf of the committee like a CEO reporting to a board of directors. But certain conditions – an immature property management industry, a severe shortage of property management professionals, and limited Manager tenure (1 year), hampers the ability to strategically manage mixed or large developments.

Can you elaborate on the roles of a property manager?

The problem we have seen in Malaysia is that committees believe it is wise to hire the cheapest property manager, not the one with the best ability. Property Management is an important and skilled profession. A property that is better managed will naturally fetch a better value. A good property manager with a clear strategy for the community will more than recover his fee through effective cost management, reducing wastage and so on. Owners who spend a bit more in hiring a competent property manager with good hospitality skills, people skills and problem-solving skills, benefit in community quality and value growth.

Iskandar Puteri and very much most of the new development in the state has given growth to Airbnb. However, there seems to be a lot of grey area when it comes to the rules. Do you think Airbnb operators should inform their management regarding their activities?

Airbnb is here to stay. Hoteliers accept it. Investors need it and so property owners must learn to work with the reality, not against it. We must respect the right of owners to earn income of their property. The Strata Act By-laws in place are already adequate to control the proper use of units if they are properly applied.

There are existing regulations which require the proper registration of Airbnb tenants just as they must in a hotel. Upon registration, they will be given the house rules. The problems arise when these rules are not followed, and an owner feels he or she has to sneak their tenant into a building and from there, it takes its own course. There have been cases in Iskandar Puteri where management committees have attempted to impose a ban on Airbnb in its building. This will only lead to conflict, argument and a reversion to illegal means. As of July 2017, Airbnb has about 18,000 active listings in Malaysia, which is a 130% growth in one year, so instead of fighting it, embrace it with regulations in place and it’ll be a win- win situation.

However, there is a key issue which requires regulatory action. Hotel accommodation must meet standards of construction quality, fire safety, and other standards that are not imposed on residential buildings. There are examples of residential buildings being turned into unregulated hotels, as investors

Alastair McCracken seek ways to earn an income. The authorities are very aware of this fact. The safety of visitors and residents in short term letting properties must be ensured. JMC, Committee members and their Property Managers are all responsible to ensure safety and emergency response standards are maintained in their buildings.

Property managers advise Committee members on this and it is one reason you don’t want the cheapest property manager but you want the one with professional training and experience.

Do you think the Airbnb operators should pay more for the extra service?

I absolutely do. Our recommendation as a management company is that buildings impose a surcharge to cover the cost of an additional reception or concierge process. If there is a separate residential wing and a serviced apartment wing, the serviced apartment wing must pay more for the services that their guests or tenants exclusively benefit from. Residential owners should not subsidise the additional demands and expense of security, cleaning and other services caused by short term stays.

All laws are only validated by the enforcement it comes with. What happens when there is a violation of the law?

The Strata Management Act (Act 757) which came into effect in July 1, 2015 introduced the Strata Management Tribunal to handle violations and disputes. The Tribunal has the jurisdiction to hear and determine any claims specified in Part 1 of the Fourth Schedule and where the total amount in respect of which an award of the Tribunal is sought does not exceed RM250, 000.

When owners don’t understand their rights and think that the solution to their problems will be to leak it to the press or via social media, what are the repercussions from that?

If owners are approaching the press with their issues, they are acting directly against their own interests, their neighbours, and even the developer as they can cause a direct negative effect on perceived property value. I’ve seen cases overseas where owners have taken legal action against Committee members and other owners whose actions have caused commercial detriment to property values. It’s a no-win situation to publicly air grievances. You don’t need to take these measures if you understand your rights and if you have a good property manager who can help to resolve issues amicably.

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Seri Austin Brings Lunar Festive Cheer to the Needy UMLand and Marrybrown brought more than just smiles and laughter

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eri Austin, a development under UMLand Berhad with local fast food chain Marrybrown came and brought festive surprise to the patients of Persatuan Kebajikan Orang-Orang Istimewa, Kempas in the form of a small party as a step to bring some fun and laughter in the festive season.

As many as 42 patients, consisting of 24 men and 18 women aged from 17

to 92 years old from all walks of life reside in two buildings of this local suburb.

Some are elderly while some have mental illnesses and need daily medicine as well as attention.

Saraswathy Latchumanan has been running the home since 1993 after taking over from her father. The centre has 7 full time staff to look after its inhabitants, from d o c t o r ’s checkups, cooking

meals, exercise and other welfare issues including obtaining proper identification cards.

“We must do something by the honesty in our hearts and not for the money.

We need to take care of them and along the way God will help us.

I’m thankful to Seri Austin for doing this.

It means a lot to them,” she said.

As many as 35 staff from Seri Austin including

Executive Officer cum Acting Group Director of UMLand Townships, KK Wong handing Red Packets to the patients of Persatuan Kebajikan OrangOrang Istimewa, Kempas

Executive Officer cum Acting Group Director of UMLand Townships, KK Wong, and Tan Siew Peng, Assistant Director of Finance, UMLand Southern Region handing over a mock cheque of RM5000 to Saraswathy Latchumanan during Seri Austin’s visit to Persatuan Kebajikan OrangOrang Istimewa, Kempas

Executive O fficer cum Acting Group Director of UMLand Townships, KK Wong, and Tan Siew Peng, Assistant Director of Finance, UMLand S outhern Region was present to have fun and games with the people of the centre. Uncle Fishy entertained everyone with his magic tricks and comical balloon art. He also led some sing along sessions that made everyone roaring with laughter.

“This is part of

our annual Seri Austin Chinese New Year CSR. We have chosen this place this year to

bring some cheer and happiness in the spirit of charity,” said Wong.

- by Amin Khairudin TI

Local clown and entertainer Uncle Fishy showed the patients of the home several magic tricks while Mickey, Minnie Mouse and the Marrybrown mascot helped him out

Mah Sing to Develop a Direct Access Road to Meridin Bayvue in Sierra Perdana Infrastructure upgrade to benefit homebuyers; shorten travel time to Johor Bahru City Centre

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ah Sing Group’s (Mah Sing) freehold s e a f ro n t m i xe d integrated complex, Meridin Bayvue in Sierra Perdana is set to benefit from a direct access that goes in and out of the development to the Johor Bahru East Coast Highway.

The construction of this direct access will shorten travel time to approximately 11 minutes and approximately 12 km from the Johor Bahru East Coast highway to Meridin Bayvue.

Mah Sing’s Chief Executive Officer, Datuk Ho Hon Sang said, “This new road is actually an additional plan that we have put in motion to enhance the connectivity for our buyers and the surrounding communities. It will provide easy access into the development thus enhancing its connectivity with adjoining areas

such as Kawasan Perindustrian Pasir Gudang, Johor Bahru City Centre and also to Singapore.”

Construction on the connecting road is set to begin in Q1 2018 pending Road and Drainage Plan Approval for JKR State. The road is scheduled for completion Q3, 2018.

Meridin Bayvue comprises of four towers; 2 Covil towers and 2 Caspian towers which offers a three bedroom serviced residence from 980 sf-1316 sf. The units are indicatively priced from RM390,000.

The serviced apartments’ sits on a 10 acre freehold land with in-house facilities, a retail podium of 93 units of lifestyle retail lots with built ups up to 1,851 sf. There is also a Rentto-Own campaign going on for Meridin Bayvue retail units for those looking for investment and

Mah Sing’s Meridin Bayvue in Sierra Perdana

setting up a business there.

M eridin Bay vue is complemented with complete education amenities nearby and is further enhanced with

shopping convenience such as Tesco Seri Alam, Jusco Permas Jaya, Today’s Market, Mydin and Giant Plentong. - by The Iskandarian TI

Quick Reads

Government proposes lowering housing loan interest rate It was reported that the government, via the National Housing Department, has proposed lowering the current housing loan interest rate.

Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said the proposal was discussed at the High Level Committee meeting which he had chaired.

The current interest rate for housing loan was about 4.65 %.

Zahid said a more competitive interest rate was needed as some house buyers found it difficult for them to secure loans. The government wants to reduce the people’s financial burden to own a house.

Similar interventions by the government had been made in the past to cap interest rate of housing loans for low and medium house buyers.

Zahid also said the committee had agreed to review the decision to review the temporary freeze of approval for RM1milion and above real estate projects.

Based on National Property Information Centre (Napic) 2017 data, 12.06% or 2,518 units worth RM1 million and above were unsold last year.

Second Finance Minister Johari Abdul Ghani had announced last year that the cabinet decided to freeze luxury property developments from 1st Nov 2017.

This was following a Bank Negara Malaysia (BNM) report, warning that unsold residential properties were at a decade-high level.

Rehda and Fomca laud the proposal to lower housing loan interest rate as it will promote homeownership among a large segment of the population.

In describing the proposal as timely, Rehda president Datuk Seri FD Iskandar said the move would benefit Malaysians from the low and middle income groups who struggled to purchase their own homes due to the current economic climate.

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Iskandar Halal Park Announces the Appointment of the New Chief Executive Officer

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skandar Halal Park, Malaysia’s first premium integrated Halal Park, announces the appointment of Ahmad Lokman Ibrahim as its new Chief Executive Officer. He will spearhead the strategy and operations of the 350-acre international Halal Park that is set to complete by 2018, gearing towards a sustainable Global Halal Integrated Industrial Park.

With more than 20 years of experiences in Fast Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG), service industries and government linked companies, his strengths will have an advantage towards ensuring that Iskandar Halal Park will continue to attract local and international companies from sustainable industries such as ingredients, food processing, pharmaceutical, cosmetics and personal care, nutraceutical probiotic and logistics services.

“The halal industry is increasingly becoming more important in contributing to the nation’s growth and across the globe, the Muslim population will increase to about 27% of the world’s total population by the year 2030. With this in mind, it is becoming more important to have stringent policies and frameworks to develop the industry to meet the rising demands for halal food, drinks, beauty and fashion products among others. That said, we are confident that Iskandar Halal Park, which has been recently awarded the HALMAS accreditation, will play an essential role in driving the growth and further cementing Malaysia’s position as the leader in the industry,” said Ahmad, who was the Vice President of Halal Development

@home

‘City of Knowledge’ Bandar Seri Alam

W Ahmad Lokman Ibrahim, the newly appointed Chief Executive Officer of Iskandar Halal Park

Corporation (HDC) prior to his new role in Iskandar Halal Park.

Lokman also shares that they will be deploying various strategies to drive investors and promote Iskandar Halal Park that provides a holistic halal eco-system industrial hub. This will include collaborations with investment promotion agencies at both state and national levels to target potential countries, halal sectors and companies who are keen to tap into the multi-trillion dollar halal industry.

Iskandar Halal Park, previously known as Johor Halal Park, is a joint venture collaboration between United Malayan Land Bhd (UMLand) and Johor State via PIJ Holdings Sdn Bhd (PIJH) to create 350 acres of international Halal Park which will be one of the catalyst projects in Eastern Iskandar Malaysia. Phase 1 of Iskandar Halal Park is set to complete by mid-2018 with 89 units of ready-built factories as well as 36 units of shop offices. - by The Iskandarian TI

ith a plethora of schools and universities located within its township, Bandar Seri Alam has been officially recognised by the local authorities as a “City of Knowledge.” The list includes Masterskill University College, Universiti Kuala Lumpur, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Excelsior International School, UniWorld International School, Japanese school, Nam Heng Chinese Primary School, Malaysia Ar t School as well as seven other national primary and secondary schools that helps to nurture future leaders.

Th e re n ow n e d

Foon Yew High School will soon join the list when it opens its new campus at the township.

The catalytic development of the City of Knowledge has brought about many positive impacts and business opportunities as a result of the growing number of students, academicians and support staffs, making the township thrive more than ever.

Bandar Seri Alam is dotted with lakes and parks and a beautifully landscaped environment.

A 33-kilometre bicycle lane has been incorporated into the township to promote an active lifestyle and to reduce carbon emission for a healthy township.

To enhance the leisurely and relaxed lifestyle, the township offers a comprehensive list of retail outlets including Tesco, Today’s Market, McDonald’s, Burger King, Subway, Marry Brown, KFC, Tea Garden and Starbucks Cafe, to name a few.

Bandar Seri Alam is also known for its medical facilities. The reputable Regency Specialist Hospital – a member of Singapore’s Health Management International Limited – operates within the township with 218 beds.

Plans are underway for a third General Hospital to meet the needs of Johor Bahru residents for subsidised healthcare. TI

Price vs Value – Part Three Sr Khaidzir A Rasip Senior VP at IRDA Sr Khaidzir A Rasip is a Chartered Valuation Surveyor by profession with over 29 years of working experience in the United Kingdom and Malaysia. He is a Fellow of both the Royal Institution of Surveyors Malaysia (RISM) and the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS), United Kingdom; and a member of the Association of Valuers, Property Managers, Estate Agents & Property Consultants in the Private Sector (PEPS). A Senior Vice President at Iskandar Regional Development Authority (IRDA) which he joined in 2009, Sr Khaidzir has been assigned to various positions in Social Development, Flagship Development, Economics & Investment, Strategic Communications and now, Urban Observatory divisions whilst maintaining a specific role as the subject matter expert in property for Iskandar Malaysia.

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ow that you have a better idea on the difference between price and value, let us go back to the consequences mentioned at the beginning of this article.

Imagine you bought a house from the primary market where the current very trendy so-called creative marketing techniques on the part of the developer allowed you to be able to afford not just the house, but also renovation package, some home appliances and even partial or full furnishings that are all lumped into the selling price and thus covered by the 90% endfinancing! Plus a rebate equivalent to 10% of the price, it means that you virtually did not use a single sen of your own money, especially since all the legal costs too are borne by the developers, right?

Wrong!

All of these costs of freebies, incentives, packages or whatever they are called are not really borne by the developers but by you, the purchaser. So what’s the big deal?

You got it covered by the bank under a single home loan. Well,

this is where what you paid for the house as stated in the Sale and Purchase Agreement is the price and not the value.

For instance, from the price of RM700,000 you bought the house for, the original price of the house could possibly be RM600,000 only and the additional RM100,000 mark-up represents the cost of all the add-ons. So, the value of your house is only RM600,000 actually. And what if due to economic recession (which also affects the property

market), you decide to sell off the house. Potential buyers will look at the value of your house only, san all the goodies that only you enjoyed when you bought from the developer. Then, it dawns upon you that you paid RM700,000 but can only sell it off at RM600,000.

You have lost RM100,000 in just a matter of months on top of the RPGT and the legal costs that you have to bear now out of your own pocket. So, the difference between price and value does make a huge difference after all.

Price is fixed by an interested party to a transaction whereas value is derived at by an independent party who is a professional. Even though both can be subjective, price tends to be biased but value is always neutral.

The former can be independent of market trends but the latter is always reflective of the prevailing market conditions. Therefore, there is no such thing as market price, only market value.

That is why even though I am not currently a practising valuer, I will always advocate the use of valuers to add value to your property assets. Not just in valuing any kinds of property in any type of transactions, but also in managing any property for value enhancement unless you are contented in having your assets just being maintained in the physical sense – which any non-valuer will be able to do as they also stake a claim to be recognised as legitimate property manager.

Property management is a profession, not a business. TI An edited version of this article appeared in the July/August 2016 edition of Homefinder Malaysia.

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UEM Sunrise Unveils Low-Density Serimbun UEM Sunrise, the master developer of Iskandar Puteri launches new low-density residential development in vibrant Bukit Indah

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EM Sunrise recently launched Serimbun, its low-density development nestled within the booming Bukit Indah township of Iskandar Puteri, Johor.

The low-density development of just 215 residential units on a 23.735-acre freehold site, offer buyers two design options of double-storey terraced houses ranging from 1,993 to 2,117 square feet and priced between RM630,000 to RM1,443,000.

“Even before the official launch, we have received 1,500 registrations from homebuyers expressing their interest in the development,” said Dato’ Roslan Ibrahim, Chief Operating Officer, Development, UEM Sunrise Berhad at the press unveiling of Serimbun.

“The prices we have set for each residential unit do not exceed RM1 million with the exception of the corner units, making this development highly accessible and attainable to many segments of the market,” said Roslan.

Slated for completion in 2020, Serimbun boasts of vast open spaces, dotted with pockets of greenery offering a lively ambiance of community living.

In addition, residents will have access to a host of

Serimbun Entrance

UEM Sunrise Serimbun TypeB Façade

recreational amenities, such as fitness facilities, parks, futsal lawns and so on within a well-secured gated community.

The development is a 35-minute drive from the Johor side of the Causeway and is easily accessible via the Second Link Expressway and the Coastal Highway and close to major amenities in Iskandar Malaysia, such as the Columbia Asia Hospital,

AEON Bukit Indah Shopping Centre, Giant Hypermarket, Tesco Hypermarket and the integrated education hub of EduCity.

For buyers, UEM Sunrise is offering subsidised legal fees on the SPA and loan agreement, stamp duty on the loan agreement as well as the Memorandum of Transfer. There is also a 15% discount for Bumiputra purchasers.

- by Shufiyan Shukur TI

UEM Serimbun Neighbourhood

Return of Market Confidence in Iskandar Malaysia With a registration of interest from 1,500 applicants, Serimbun’s launch by UEM Sunrise is a breath of fresh air amid an otherwise muted property market

Khalil Adis Khalil Adis was the former editor of Property Report and he has written for PropertyGuru, iProperty.com, Yahoo! Singapore/Malaysia and various newspapers.

Renowned for his independent views and insights, Khalil has given talks at various expos and at property launches. He is also on the judging panel of the South East Asia Property Awards (Malaysia).

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he property market in Iskandar Malaysia is receiving yet another boost following the recent announcement that the Rapid Transit System (RTS) Link connecting Singapore and Johor Bahru is expected to commence service by 2024.

This time round, the master planner for Iskandar Puteri, UEM Sunrise, has launched Serimbun located just adjacent to the

matured Bukit Indah township area and easily accessible via the Second Link Expressway and the Coastal Highway.

The Serimbun development, which sits on a 23.735-acres freehold footprint, commands a Gross Development Value (“GDV”) of approximately RM139.3 million.

A breath of fresh air from a local player Serimbun’s launch is a breath of fresh air that will hopefully restore investors’ confidence in Iskandar Malaysia.

Over the past few years, the market dynamics have changed considerably as Chinese developers started to acquire land parcels and build units by the thousands.

According to a recent study

by Singapore-based ISEAS – Yusof Ishak Institute, Johor has the second largest stock of residential units in Malaysia with a total of 1,017,298 units, trailing just behind Selangor for 2016.

In addition, Johor’s stock in serviced apartments at 116,106 units will closely resemble that of Kuala Lumpur at 116,356 units.

This, coupled with a launch pricing that is geared towards the medium to high-end market, has created fear among both local and Singaporeans investors that they might induce price volatility in a market which is already experiencing an oversupply.

Indeed, certain parts of Iskandar Malaysia are already experiencing this.

In Danga Bay, for instance, where there are a few developments

by Chinese developers, a newly completed 1,800 sq ft condominium at Tropez Residence was auctioned off at RM395 per sq ft in 2016.

In comparison, the units there were selling for around RM1,000 per sq ft at the peak of the market.

This suggests that the property market there is not sustainable.

Right product and right pricing On the other hand, UEM Sunrise has a track record in master planning Iskandar Puteri from scratch and is known to build according to market demand. Serimbun, for instance, appears to be the right product

with the right pricing.

This low-density development comprises just nine units per acre with a total of 215 residential units that are slated for completion in 2020.

According to UEM Sunrise, homebuyers can choose from two design options with built-ups ranging from 1,993 sq ft to 2,117 sq ft. The double-storey houses are priced between RM630,000 to RM1,443,000, and comes with four bedrooms and three bathrooms.

This works out to a price range of RM315 to RM681 per sq ft.

In comparison, a landed 1,800 sq ft intermediate double story unit in the vicinity has an asking price of RM404 per sq ft.

Given its product type and pricing, Serimbun is reasonably priced for both local upgraders and Singaporeans.

“We target a fair mix of purchasers and we are confident that potential homebuyers will find a place they can call home at Serimbun. With a strong registration rate that we have seen so far, we are in full anticipation of positive takeup,” said Dato’ Roslan Ibrahim, Chief

Operating Officer of UEM Sunrise.

UEM Sunrise said since the launch, it has received strong and growing interest from homebuyers for Serimbun with at least 1,500 registrations received to date.

While the take-up rate has yet to be revealed, the strong registrations received suggests that the property market here is sustainable driven by genuine demand from both Johorians and Singaporeans.

This coupled with its close proximity to the mature township of Bukit Indah makes it even more attractive for homebuyers. TI

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