The Iskandarian June 2018

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The Iskandarian ISSUE 70 | JUNE 2018

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Johor’s Menteri Besar and Ten Johor State Exco Members Sworn In

te Reps

Image: Royal Press Office (RPO)

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empas State Assemblyman Datuk Osman Sapian was sworn in as the 16th Menteri Besar of Johor at Istana Bukit Serene on the 12th of May 2018.

Present at the ceremony were Johor Crown Prince Tunku Ismail Sultan Ibrahim and the husband of Tunku Puteri of Johor Tunku Tun Aminah, Dennis Muhammad Abdullah.

Also present were Johor PKR chairman Hassan Karim and Johor Amanah president Aminolhuda Hassan.

The 67-year-old secretary of

Johor Parti Pribumi Bersatu Malaysia (PPBM) took his oath of office before Sultan Ibrahim Sultan Iskandar, at the palace’s Balai Mengadap.

On the 16th of May, ten members of the Johor State Executive Council (EXCO) took their oath of office before the Sultan of Johor, Sultan Ibrahim Sultan Iskandar at the Istana Besar Johor Bahru.

HM Sultan Ibrahim reminded the state’s newly elected leaders to carry out their responsibilities with honesty and sincerity in the interest of the people.

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Menteri Besar of Johor: 6.

Datuk Osman Sapian also Chairman of Natural Resources, Administrative, 7.

Financial, Economic Planning and 8.

Development Committee.

Chairman of Islamic Affairs and Education 9.

Committee: Aminolhuda Hassan Chairman of Housing and Rural Development Committee: Dzulkefly 10.

Ahmad Chairman of Local Government, Science and Technology Committee: Tan Hong Pin 11.

Chairman of Consumerism, Human Resources and Unity Committee: Dr S Ramakrishnan

Chairman of Works, Infrastructure and Transport Committee: Mazlan Bujang Chairman of Investment and Utilities Committee: Jimmy Puah Wee Tse Chairman of Women and Tourism Development Committee: Liow Cai Tung Chairman of the Youth, Sports and Culture Committee: Mohd Khuzzan Abu Bakar Chairman of Health, Environment and Agriculture Committee: Dr Sahruddin Jamal Chairman of Entrepreneurship Development, Cooperative and Creative Economy Committee: Sheikh Umar Bagharib Ali

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Know Y our Sta

te Reps

Ten members of the Johor State Executive Council (EXCO) took their oath of office before the Sultan of Johor Sultan Ibrahim Sultan Iskandar at the Istana Besar Singgahsana Room on the 16th of May 2018 to join Menteri Besar of Johor Datuk Osman Sapian who is also Chairman of Natural Resources, Administrative, Financial, Economic Planning and Development Committee.

The Iskandarian

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ISSUE 70 | JUNE 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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We need to continue to co-operate on marketing Johor as a must visit destination in Malaysia - Gagan Singh General Manager, Renaissance Johor Bahru Hotel

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Pasir Gudang Highway: Phase 2A to be Completed by September Read on pg 5

0% GST Effective from 1st June 2018

Malls Remain Vibrant and Optimistic

-Paradigm Mall JB is expanding with the opening of more than 20 new reputable brands

5th ISKANDAR MALAYSIA SOCIAL HERO AWARDS 2018 #IMSHA2018

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Hospital Project Under Review Several projects in the state, including the Pasir Gudang Hospital in Bandar Seri Alam, will be reviewed to reduce the country’s high debt

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ohor Works, Infrastructures and Transport Executive Councillor Mazlan Bujang said the Finance Ministry issued letters asking for some projects to be reviewed due to the country’s alarming debt.

“The selected projects will be revised soon, especially the ones that are yet to receive the letter of acceptance,” said Mazlan at a press conference.

He added that the Pasir Gudang Hospital project would be reviewed in order to implement open tenders for the contractors.

“The move will help the Government save up to 10% of the project, which is worth RM500mil,” he said.

It was reported previously that the hospital will have 304 beds, 36 units of Quarters Class G, a nursing hostel and other supporting amenities.

The idea was initially mooted in 2014 to have two additional

hospitals in Johor; one in Tampoi and the other in Pasir Gudang. The idea came about, to help reduce the high traffic and patients rate at both Hospital Sultanah Aminah (HSA) which is a few minutes away from Johor Bahru city centre and Hospital

Sultan Ismail (HSI) which is located at the heavy traffic Tebrau area.

The hospital was expected to reduce and divert atleast 30% of the patients who visited HSA and HSI. A 20.23ha land in Jalan Gunung in Bandar Seri Alam

township was earmarked for the hospital which was meant to cater to the population in Pasir Gudang and its surrounding areas such as Masai, Plentong and Kong Kong which is around 400,000 people. Edey Suresh TI

Colouring Moms at SugarBun PEGASUS INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL

Gleneagles MEDINI

“In The Arms Of One Who Cares”

Kindergarteners “coloured their mothers” and had a fun time in conjunction with Mother’s Day at Borneo Asian Food by SugarBun, Seri Alam

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indergarteners from Nuri Education Centre were invited to “colour their mothers” at Borneo Asian Food by SugarBun, Seri Alam outlet during a promotional event in conjunction with Mother’s Day 2018.

Widely celebrated on the second Sunday in the month of May, Mother’s Day is a celebration honouring the mother of the family, and children all around the world dedicate one special day to show their biggest, and at times, extravagant appreciation to their mothers. Celebrate it however you like, Mother’s Day can be an everyday affair for all that we know.

About 30 adorable

children from the colourful Nuri Education Centre, aged between 5-6 years showcased their artistic talent and imagination by colouring a template themed “Colour My Mom” at SugarBun in Bandar Seri Alam.

“We were happy to host such an event at SugarBun Seri Alam. Mother’s Day is a special occasion. Besides having the kindergar teners colouring away and enjoying the food at SugarBun, we also want to promote the family orientated brand to the locals,” said Eddie Ling, Outlet Franchisee of Borneo Asian Food by SugarBun, Seri Alam.

The children were treated to a Magic Show performance by

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Children fully focused on colouring their moms

Group photo with Nuri Kindergarteners, teachers, SugarBun staff and outlet franchisee, and of course, Badut Handsome!

“Badut Handsome the Clown”. It was easy to get the full attention of these children because the show was magical and funny.

Part of the performance was the magical act, colourful balloon animals and ornament sculpting, and blissful jokes.

Borneo Asian Food

by SugarBun organised the promotional event in conjunction with Mother’s Day to promote the presence of the outlet while having magical and colourful fun with the locals. The outlet was officially opened in January this year and business has been picking up as there is a big community of East Malaysians

in the area. Local Johoreans are embracing the brand and its flavourful foods as well.

SugarBun is a brand that hails from East Malaysia. It has been established since 1979 from its humble ice-cream parlour beginnings. Now, SugarBun offers more dishes ranging from the signature Laksa Sarawak, to its deliciously juicy Broasted Chicken.

This is the first Borneo Asian Food outlet to open in Johor at Bandar Seri Alam.

SugarBun Johor plans to expand its “broasted wings” by opening more outlets in Johor. - by Harish Mustak 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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Buka Puasa with Setanggi Children Tanjong Puteri Golf Resort celebrates Ramadan with 33 underprivileged children and 7 caregivers from Pusan Jagaan Kasih Setanggi

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hildren and caregivers of Kasih Setanggi Childcare Centre were treated to a memorable buka puasa dinner at Tanjong Puteri Golf Resort

(TPGR) this Ramadan.

A total of 33 children were treated to a scrumptious Ramadan Buffet dinner which featured nostalgic favourites such

as Roasted Whole Lamb, Beef and Chicken Satay, Barbecued Meat and Seafood, Oodles of Noodles, Soto and many local sweets and desserts.

The children enjoying their buka puasa food at the resort

Dato’s Abdul Rahim Ramli (CEO of TPGR) accompanied by TPGR Staff giving away goody bags and Duit Raya

SMK Seri Pulai Needy Children Get Ramadan Treat From Pulai Springs Resort 30 underprivileged secondary school students from SMK Seri Pulai, were treated to a sumptuous Ramadan break-of-fast buffet, comprising both Asian and Western fare by Pulai Springs Resort

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he 30 boys and girls of 13 to 17 years of age arrived at the resort with their teachers looking forward to a delicious meal after the rigours of fasting. The children came from poor families and some from singleparent homes.

Apart from the buffet dinner, the students also received the traditional ‘green packet’ with RM45.00 as a contribution from the Resort and the Sports Club.

The children also received goodie bags containing stationery sponsored by Schwan-STABILO Marketing, a storybook sponsored

by Pelangi Publishing Group, snacks and an AEON Big Gift Card worth RM50.00.

In welcoming the children and their teachers, Sunny Soo, Pulai Spring’s General Manager said that the ‘Majlis Iftar Ramadan’ annual charity event was part of the resort’s Corporate Social Responsibility Programme.

“It is us giving back to

organisations outside of the school system as par t of a community.”

M oh d Azam said that ‘buk a puasa’ events of previous y e a r s had been Sunny Soo, General Manager of Pulai Springs Resort organised distributing gifts to the children while school Principal by the Mohd Azam Anuar looks on parents and the community and to the teachers themselves through their less fortunate at a time when ‘Penglibatan Ibu Baba Komuniti underprivileged students and (PIBK) or Parents Community children need more love and Involvement initiative.

On hand to welcome the attention,” said Sunny.

The school’s Principal, Mohd children and teachers of the school Azam Anuar in thanking Pulai were the committee members of Springs Resort for the Ramadan the Resort’s Sports Club and staffs treat said, “This is the first time that who were later rewarded with a we have been invited and we hope Nasyid performance put up by it will not be the last as we want some of the children. - by Syufian to engage with companies and Shukur TI

While having dinner, guests were treated to a beautiful choreographed dance number and a couple of Nasyid song performances by the children.

In the true spirit of Ramadan, goody bags for the children were sorted by the staff of the resort when they all came together collectively to sponsor items such as tidbits, drinks, toys, stationery, and books. Some of the staff also donated some money in addition to the amount set aside by the resort to be given to the children as ‘Duit Raya’ (money packets).

The children were

exceptionally delighted to receive the goody bags and Duit Raya after the Maghrib prayers.

“These children are also our responsibility, and as a service to them, we are happy to host the children at our resort. We can also create and maintain the relationship between the working class at TPGR with these children which is part of the social responsibility towards the community,” said Dato’ Abdul Rahim bin Ramli, CEO of TPGR. Kasih Setanggi Childcare Centre takes care of underprivileged children aged between 4 to 6 years. - by Harish Mustak TI

Sharing Happiness and Solidarity

Renaissance Johor Bahru Hotel brings joy to the elderly and the orphanage this Ramadan

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n the spirit of Ramadan, in April 2007, Pusat Jagaan Warga Renaissance Johor Bahru Hotel Emas Nur Ehsan is currently home treated 20 elderly from Pusat to about 100 residents. Meanwhile Jagaan Warga Emas Nur Ehsan Berkat Children’s Home is a nontogether with 20 orphanages from profit organisation, created to help Persatuan Kebajikan Berkat Johor the underprivileged children from Bahru (Berkat Children’s Home) to all walks of life, race and religion.

As part of their ‘Spirit to a delicious Bazaar Makan-Makan dinner buffet prepared by the Serve’ programme of CSR initiatives Executive Chef in collaboration during Ramadan, the Iftar was with TEG Media. (www.tegmedia. organised to encourage solidarity among the hotel staff and my).

“Being in the hospitality management by sharing happiness industry doesn’t restrict us to with the elderly and the orphanage just being good hosts to our during special moments that guests. We believe that sharing comes with the breaking of the hospitality is as important and that fast. - by The Iskandarian TI we remember the less fortunate to remind us of the things we take for granted in life especially during this Ramadan season,” said Gagan Deep Singh, General Manager of Renaissance Johor Bahru Hotel.

Located in Kempas Baru, Pusat Jagaan Warga Emas Nur Ehsan is a shelter A young boy from Berkat Children’s Home home that cares for receiving personal attention from the chef the elderly. Founded during the Ramadan event

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news AJFC Malaysia 2018 Crowns Southern Region Champions

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ighteen young Southern JBFA were crowned Southern Hang Tuah, Melaka. In the third and footballers are one step Region champions after beating fourth placing match, STHAM FC closer to earning a golden SMK Kem Terendak 2-0 at Stadium beat Berjaya Wardina Silver Lion ticket to be part of the Allianz J u n i o r Fo o t b a l l Camp (A JFC ) in Munich and the chance to train with FC Bayern Munich’s youth coaches in August.

The 18 players thoroughly impressed selectors at the Regional Finals and will represent the Southern Region in the Grand Finals of the AJFC Malaysia League 2018 from 5th to 7th July 2018.

A proud moment for all players to be a part of AJFC Malaysia League In the final,

FC 3-0.

“We are very proud to crown the Southern Region champions today. All the players showed a lot of heart and played tremendously.

With AJFC, Allianz is very proud to be able to give these inspiring, and gifted young footballers a dream experience of what it is like to play football professionally. We congratulate all 18 players for making the team and we wish them the very best in the Grand Finals,” said Amy Loke, Chief Market Management Officer of Allianz Malaysia Berhad.

A JFC M alaysia League kicked-off from

24th March 2018 until April at the Central, Southern, Northern and East Coast regions. The format for the Malaysia League remains an 11-a-side affair played for 70 minutes.

Upon the culmination of the Malaysia League, the regional selection panel then selected the top 18 players from each region to form six regional teams that will compete in the Finals. Following three days of centralised training, the six teams will go head to head to determine the winner at the Grand Final on 7th July 2018. At the end of the Grand Finals, 10 players will be selected to attend the AJFC Asia in Bangkok, Thailand, where the best two Malaysian players will be selected to attend AJFC in Munich, Germany. - by Priya Manikam TI

Entertaining visitors?

By Helen Gray

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f you have overseas visitors staying with you, and you want to go out for the day, where do you go? My favourite choice is a drive out to the fishing village of Kukup on the west coast of Johor, as this provides an array of different experiences in one go.

Firstly, you get to drive through some lovely countryside without the tedium of endless fields of palm oil trees. And, because you are in the countryside, there will be plenty of roadside fruit stalls and cafes if you want a break. Head towards Pontian and take the coast road south into Kukup.

Secondly, you get to experience a unique form of park-and-ride! Kukup is also the home of an International Ferry Terminal, taking travellers to Indonesia. The road into Kukup is therefore a dead end, so traffic is restricted in the town. You will see a large car park where a minibus will miraculously appear which will drop you at the ferry terminal. You might feel like you are being kidnapped, but rest assured, this is how the park-and-ride system works here. Just remember to take a photo of the minibus as

* Image is for illustration only

Matta Calls for End to Tourism Tax

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he Malaysian Association of Tour and Travel Agents (Matta) has called for the abolition of the Tourism Tax (TTx), which came into effect on 1st Sept, 2017.

The TTX charges a flat rate of RM10 per room night on foreigners staying in hotels or registered private accommodation.

Matta President

Datuk Tan Kok Liang said tourists are welcome to have an enjoyable holiday experience and spend freely on accommodation, food and beverage, tourist attractions and tour excursion, but collecting tax from tourists would be counterproductive.

“Malaysia’s tourism sector is trailing behind neighbouring countries Thailand, Singapore and

Helen Gray has lived and worked in Asia for over 25 years. Her passion for photography has led her to explore and record her impressions of many countries. Through her website (www.helengray.net), she provides information on places to visit in the region and focuses on the history of Johor.

the Philippines. Putting up more barriers may deter tourists from choosing Malaysia as a preferred holiday destination,” said Tan. Matta’s call for the removal of TTx comes at the heels of the government’s announcement for zerorated Goods and Services Tax (GST) implementation on 1st June 2018. - by The Iskandarian TI

you will need it to return to your car!

Thirdly, you will get to eat some delicious seafood! If you stand facing the ferry terminal, choose one of the restaurants on your right hand side, and sit up on the second floor for a great view of the sea. Enjoy a leisurely lunch and watch the boats drift by.

Now you could just drive home after this, but there is even more for you to do here.

Fourthly, take the small ferry across to Pulau Kukup Johor National Park. Just ask one of the waitresses where to find the ferry (it is near these restaurants). After paying a small entrance fee to the park, head off along the boardwalk and wander through the glorious mangrove trees. There are plaques along the way to help you make sense of what you are looking at, and just remember to look down into the mud to see the variety of animal life there. And, also do not forget to take some water and mosquito repellant.

Take the ferry back to Kukup which will drop you off at a working fish farm along the way.

Finally, find the minivan, find your car, and return home pleasantly exhausted! TI

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news

Zero-Rated GST Effective from 1st June 2018 The Sales and Services Tax (SST) will be reintroduced as part of the fiscal reform and will replace GST

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ith the new government in place after a shock win in the GE14, the public went abuzz when Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad, announced that the Goods and Services Tax (GST) will be zerorated (0%) effective 1st June 2018 onwards.

A statement from the Ministry of Finance (MOF) stated that expenditure reduction will begin with rationalisation, efficiency measures and reduction in wastages and the re-introduction of Sales and Service Tax (SST) is part of the fiscal reform initiative by the newly formed Pakatan Harapan government.

The statement also urged registered business owners to comply with the zero-rate imposition, while also ensuring that prices of goods and services comply with the Price Control and Anti-Profiteering Act 2011.

Registered traders are also subject to the current rules set forth in regards to tax invoices, the delivery of tax returns within the prescribed period of charge, and input tax credit claims.

The reintroduction of the SST is supposed to offset any shortfall in revenue but no exact date has been given as to when SST

will come into effect and whether the MOF will reinstate the SST based on the previous thresholds and rates (between 5%, 6% and 10%) or whether they will introduce new thresholds and rates in order to simplify it compared to the previous SST. SST is a single state consumption tax system whereas GST is a multi-stage consumption tax system.

What this means is that under SST, the tax is charged only once by the manufacturer or service provider and there is no subsequent claiming of input tax and recharging of output tax as in GST. Apart from the single stage and multi stage tax, another major difference between GST and SST is that the former is based on accrual basis whereas the latter is on cash basis.

What this means is that under GST, the tax must be paid to the Royal Malaysian Customs Department (RMCD) as long as the invoice has been issued, regardless of whether or not the customer had actually paid for the supply.

SST on the other hand is based on cash receipt basis, i.e. the tax registrant pays the tax based on actual cash collected from customers.

As such, GST imposes heavy

cash flow burden on businesses as they need to pay the GST output tax even if they have yet to collect the payment.

In the case where a business is reliant on overdraft facility, the business incurs financing cost for the GST paid to RMCD while waiting for the payment from the customer.

Therefore, in order to recover the overdraft interest costs and to manage operating cash flow, businesses tend to increase prices so that the cash flow collected would be sufficient to pay for the tax liability in the next period.

Further, it is a fact that the RMCD takes a long time to refund

GST to tax payers as they need to conduct an audit whenever there is a significant amount of GST to be refunded. However, this adds to the cash flow burden of the businesses.

With multi stage taxation, it also means that multiple parties need to file GST returns and compliance. This would increase compliance costs to between RM250 to RM2,500 per submission, where this job is outsourced to an accounting firm.

Annually, this would translate to between RM1,000 to RM30,000 in additional compliance costs. This excludes software upgrade costs, training costs and

From Cover Consultant fees incurred to attend to GST Audits.

During SST, i.e. pre 1st April 2015, even though the rates were higher in some cases, most businesses didn’t feel the pinch because of the cash basis of payment and the lower compliance cost.

But with the zero-rated tax in place from June onwards, it is possible that buyers’ sentiments may boost as previously the public was burdened with high cost of goods plus GST. With the new system, the people’s purchasing power may improve. - by Priya Manikam and Devadason Arulsamy TI

“

Accordingly, all registered traders are required to comply with the latest zero rate imposition.

Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad, announced that the Goods and Services Tax (GST) will be zerorated (0%) effective 1st June 2018

Pasir Gudang Highway: Phase 2A to be Completed by September Federal Route 17 or the Pasir Gudang highway had made headlines previously for receiving a makeover of lane expansion from four-lanes to six-lane carriageway that was initiated in July 2012

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ederal Route 17 or commonly known as Pasir Gudang Highway has been undergoing extensive improvement for some time now and motorists are fed up

with the traffic congestion that is created by the roadworks and deplorable condition on some parts of the highway.

Unbearable and hazardous road conditions are a common

problem along the Pasir Gudang highway and its surrounding areas. Uneven road surfaces and potholes are more than a nuisance when it can cause fatal accidents for motorists especially motorcyclists.

In a press conference, Johor Works, Infrastructures and Transport Executive Councillor Mazlan Bujang said that the second phase (Phase 2A) of the Pasir Gudang Highway expansion project, from Plentong to Seri Alam/Taman Rinting would be completed by September.

The expansion works of Phase 2A is currently at 86% of completion.

Phase 2A that spreads along 7.7km route from Plentong to Bandar Seri Alam intersection i s c u r re nt l y u n d e rg o i n g

improvements.

It was previously mentioned that the budget allocated for this project was approximately RM164.3 million while the whole project which is divided into four phases will cost around RM1 billion.

“Phase 2A includes expanding the road from four lanes to six, for some 7.7km. The contract for the phase is worth RM159,444,704,” said Mazlan.

He added that the detailed work scope for the phase included traffic management, health and safety for the workers as well as maintenance works.

Phase 1 construction and lane expansion which spreads from Taman Perling to the Plentong interchange was completed in 2016.

The project consists of four phases – Phase One that spans 8km, Phase 2A (7.7km), Phase B (5km) and Phase Three (7km). - by Edey Suresh TI

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Amari Johor Bahru Wins Green Medal Gold Award

news Malls Remain Vibrant and Optimistic

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Dennis Ng, Group Managing Director of UMLand (middle) received the Green Mark Gold Award at the BCA Awards 2018

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mari Johor Bahru was awarded the Green Mark Gold Award at the BCA (Building & Construction Authority) Awards 2018 in recognition of the development’s environmental design and sustainability best practices.

Dennis Ng, Group Managing Director of UMLand was present to receive the prestigious award at the Resorts World Sentosa, Singapore.

Also present was Amari Johor Bahru Executive Assistant Manager, Johann Ong. “We are indeed honoured to receive such a prestigious award.

Amari Johor Bahru

recently won the Star Property My Awards 2017 for Best Quality and Finishing Development and this is a double celebration for us after winning the Green Mark Gold Award. We shall continue to strive our very best in customer service and quality standards and maintain as one of the top leading hotels not only in Johor but also in Malaysia”, said Dean Rossilli, Area General Manager for Amari Johor Bahru.

The first Amari in Malaysia, this 242-room five-star hotel opened its doors last year in May 2018. Managed by ONYX Hospitality Group and owned by UMLand,

Amari Johor Bahru is nicely nestled in the heart of the thriving city of Johor Bahru. This new oasis of comfort and service, with fresh and modern facilities, is encompassed by the iconic heritage trail, popular shopping centres, commercial buildings, traditional bakeries, museums, old coffee shops and trendy cafes.

The Building and Construction Authority (BCA) of Singapore champions the development of an excellent built environment. BCA’s mission is to shape a safe, high quality, sustainable and friendly built environment. - by The Iskandarian TI

EON Co. (M) Bhd is allocating up to RM400 million in capital expenditure (capex) this year, slightly lower than RM500 million last year, said Executive Director Poh Ying Loo in a press conference.

He said the amount is allotted for three ongoing refurbishment works, a mall expansion, as well as the construction of a new mall.

“We are refurbishing our Bandar Sunway and Bandar Utama stores in the Klang Valley, as well as the Tebrau City in Johor Bahru, to reset the style as well as the ambiance,” said Poh. The Japanese retailer company currently has 35 stores and 27 malls throughout Malaysia.

Meanwhile, Poh said the company was set to launch a groceries drive-thru service, a value-added feature to its existing e-commerce business, to strengthen its omni-channel strategy.

The new service, to be rolled out at AEON Bukit Indah, Johor next month, would enable customers to buy groceries online and pick them up at the drive-thru window, Poh said.

Commenting on whether the abolishment of the Goods

and Services Tax would push prices down, Poh said this was among questions posed by shareholders earlier, but it was too early to decide right now.

Meanwhile the state’s largest shopping centre Paradigm Mall JB is expanding its occupancy rate with the opening of more than 20 new reputable brands reported The Star.

WCT Malls Management retail Chief Executive Officer Selena Chua said they were pleased to welcome these retailers to the growing mix of high-quality and diverse tenants at the mall.

“Our mall is more than 93% occupied at the moment and we are aiming to hit 99% by 2019, which is timely as the country gears up for Visit Malaysia Year 2020.

“As a regional mall, we play an important role in positioning the southern region as an ideal retail haven for local and international visitors,” Chua said.

She added that there would soon be a hotel and serviced apartments integrated into the mall and tenants would benefit from the increased traffic once the entire development was completed. - by Maisarah Ismail TI

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news

Blissful Ramadan for Cahaya Suria Bakti Students Columbia Asia Hospital and Millesime Hotel brought smiles and cheer to needy Rohingya children

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s many as 40 Rohingya children from Sekolah Cahaya Bakti charity school under the care of

Pertubuhan Kebajikan Cahaya Surya Bakti were treated to a scrumptious ‘buka puasa’ at Millesime Hotel, Iskandar Puteri. This was all possible

Picture of happiness after a successful Ramadan celebration

through the generous people at Columbia Asia Hospital-Iskandar Puteri as well as the hotel who accommodated the needy children during this festive season.

Several volunteer teachers as well as staff from the hospital and the hotel were present for the occasion and were treated to a beautiful Quran and Zikir recital by the students while eagerly waiting for the cue to break their fast.

“We at Columbia Asia were warmly welcomed and were happy to accommodate and entertain these children and they are gifted to have caring people like Puan Soraya Alkaff in charge of them,” said General Manager of Columbia Asia Hospital Rahani Yaacob.

80 underprivileged children treated to Ramadan fare at Hotel Granada

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0 children from two c h i l d r e n ’s c h a r i t y organisations, Pertubuhan Sosial dan Kebajikan Sari Saujana and Raudhatul Maryam were treated to a Ramadan spread at Hotel Granada organised by the hotel’s Corporate Social Responsibility initiative, Care Luxury CARES. The children, aged between 5 to 16 years old arrived in three buses sponsored by Handal Indah Causeway Link.

While the organisations received food aid for their daily needs sponsored by Tiong Nam Logistics Holdings Sdn Bhd, all 80 children received their ‘Raya Green packets’ to add to their festive cheer.

“Let’s not forget those in need especially during this Ramadan season.

“We believe that in this holy month, extending our helping hand would make someone’s day and today, it belongs to these children from both Pertubuhan Sosial dan Kebajikan Sari Saujana and Raudhatul Maryam,” said Hotel Granada Johor Bahru General

This marks the third Buka Puasa CSR activity

by Millesime Hotel and the first collaboration with Columbia Asia Hospital-Iskandar Puteri.

The children and guests were treated to a delicious spread of local favourites including Laksa Johor, Gulai Kawah Daging, Butter Prawns as well as ice cream and an assorted spread of kuih-muih for dessert.

General Manager of Columbia Asia Hospital After the feast, Rahani Yaacob (left) with Puan Soraya the children were given Alkaff, Founder and Executive Director of goodie bags and green Pertubuhan Kebajikan Cahaya Surya Bakti packets before conducting a second performance and prayer with smiles across their faces. - by recital before ending the night Amin Khairuddin

JPDC: Attracting More Investors with Masterplan Revision

J Jeslin Chong and Alan Tan with Raudhatul Maryam’s Ustaz Mohd Nasir Bin Mohd Nor

Manager, Alan Tan. Alan added that the corporate social responsibility programme has contributed a significant amount including daily necessities to assist the less fortunate in preparing for the upcoming Raya Aidilfitri celebrations.

“We’ve been in existence for the last 15 years helping orphans, children from singleparent and very poor homes,” said Siti Sariah bt Haji Sariman who heads Pertubuhan Sosial dan Kebajikan Sari Saujana.

The organisation also

Finale to a great evening, a group shot

runs a charity collection centre at Danga City Mall where donors can leave items they no longer require which will be re-sold to raise money for the charity.

“We provide food aid, daily pocket money for the kids and vouchers for clothing too,” Siti Sariah added.

Raudhatul Maryam on the other hand runs orphanages and at the moment they have three premises to house the children.

“The number of children we care for have increased from just over 30 in the last two years to 52 now,” said Raudhatul Maryam’s Ustaz Mohd Nasir Bin Mohd Nor. Both the charities depend on private donors and do not receive any financial assistance from the government.

Those wishing to assist the charities can do so by contacting them directly: Pertubuhan Sosial dan Kebajikan Sari Saujana; Siti Sariah Bt Haji Sariman (telephone number: 07-2211073 / 0167117727), Raudhatul Maryam; Haji Nasir Bin Mohd Nor (telephone number: 014-9827909) - by Syufian Shukur TI

ohor Petroleum Development Corp Bhd (JPDC) is finalising the revision of the Pengerang Integrated Petroleum Complex (PIPC) masterplan, as part of an effort to attract more investors to the area.

“We now realised the need to improve the infrastructure within PIPC by providing better road, power supply and connectivity as well as other facilities,” said Deputy Chief Executive Izhar Hifnei Ismail, speaking to the media after a buka puasa event “The purpose of the revision is to revisit the earlier masterplan and enhance it where necessary in order for us to be able to present PIPC as a good investment location for the downstream oil and gas (O&G) industry,” he added.

The original masterplan was developed in 2012 when the project was first started but over the last five years, there have been growing interest on the project.

However, he said there is no change to the objective of the masterplan, which is to turn PIPC into a hub for downstream O&G industry.

“As we started planning, we realised that in order to attract more investors and manufacturers, they would need more and better infrastructures and facilities. For example, they need access to power, so, we need to build that within PIPC, which is not available before because it is formerly oil palm plantations.”

“That is where the revision of the masterplan comes into play.

The revision takes into account the need to improve the infrastructure

to help investors get their business started and they have the facilities to support their growth,” said Izhar.

Izhar said a total of 25 packages of infrastructure works have been or are being carried out for the period between 2013 and 2019.

“Last year, we completed six packages, and another four packages are expected to be completed this year. We expect by 2020, we will be able to complete everything,” he said.

The PIPC project is getting more significant because the Pengerang Integrated Complex (PIC) under Petronas is nearing completion. Petronas is scheduled to complete construction by this year and the start-up of the finery is expected to be conducted by the first quarter of 2019. Dialog Group Bhd’s deepwater terminal is progressing well. They are now completing the 2nd phase of the project and would start the 3rd phase soon.

Izhar said other players are also coming into PIPC, like Johor Corp, which is developing the Pengerang Industrial Park which would provide sites for companies in the downstream O&G industry that would complement what Petronas is doing in PIPC. “Serba Dinamik Holdings Bhd is also collaboration with PIJ Holdings to develop the Pengerang Eco Park which would provide maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) and training services for PIPC,” he added.

He also said that more exciting developments are expected in the area within the next one or two years’ time, especially for supporting activities surrounding PIPC like tourism activities in Desaru Coast and the rapid development of Bandar Penawar. - by The Iskandarian TI

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drill

MONTHLY DRILL

Q&A

Gagan Singh

Coming up through rank and file of the hotel industry, what were among the best learning challenges that you remember most vividly?

I joined Marriott in 1999 as a fresh graduate out of hotel school. On my first day, my General Manager and the leadership team met all the new joiners and spoke about the culture of our company. Associate wellbeing, empowerment and growth are the corner stone of the Marriott culture. As I have spent the last 18 years with Marriott growing through the rank and file to eventually become a General Manager, the one thing that I always remember is that we need to live this culture every day. Happy, empowered associates find a way to take care of the guests, enhance the business and drive loyalty. I’m very happy that as Marriott has grown to be the world’s largest hospitality company with over 6500 hotels worldwide, the culture of the company has still remained intact.

What are key points in managing customers’ expectations?

The key point in managing customer expectation is to put oneself in the guests’ shoes and try and understand their perspective. In the service industry, we have to remember that every guest’s requirements and expectations are different.

Guests travel for different reasons; business / leisure, derive from different cultures and are of different age demographics. Any business today, especially hotels, cannot meet every single guest expectations unless they stay flexible and can quickly adapt to different guests’ needs.

How has business been at Renaissance?

The Renaissance Johor Bahru Hotel has

General Manager Renaissance Johor Bahru Hotel Gagan Singh joined Renaissance Johor Bahru Hotel as General Manager in 2016 after being with Marriott International for over 16 years. He started his journey with Marriott as a Manager in Training in 1999 at the Goa Marriott Resort in India. Gagan received his first of many promotions with Marriott in 2000 in the role of Food and Beverage Executive. Returning to Goa Marriott in 2004 as the Food and Beverage Manager, he held this position for three years before transferring to Renaissance Mumbai Hotel and Convention Centre and Marriott Executive Apartments as Director of Food and Beverage. In 2010 he assumed his second Director of Food and Beverage assignment at JW Marriott Pune and in 2012 he returned to JW Marriott Mumbai as Director of Operations. In March 2014, he moved to Courtyard by Marriott Pune City Centre as General Manager.

Gagan was recognised by Marriott in 2011 as Food and Beverage Leader of The Year for Asia Pacific. He has also been instrumental in performing a key role on the project Zenith team for Asia Pacific. His first assignment in 2011 was in Beijing and second assignment in 2012 in Thailand before moving to Johor Bahru.

for the last 5 years, been the number one 5-star hotel in Johor Bahru. Renaissance is a lifestyle brand of Marriott International. The Renaissance Johor Bahru Hotel imbibes the local culture and cuisine in all our guests’ touch points. This has made our hotel extremely popular amongst the locals as well as international travelers. The hotel has won numerous awards including the Luxury Hotel of the year 2017 by Luxury Travel Group and Travelers’s Choice awards as well as awards by Marriott International recognising the hotel performance.

Any challenges with the rise of AirBnb? On the contrary! Businesses like AirBnb that help promote travel and make lodging affordable are a welcome addition to the travel eco system. Like I mentioned earlier, one guest could travel different times in a year for different reasons. In some cases, an AirBnb might be his choice of accommodation, while for the others a high quality 5-star accommodation would suit his/her needs. There is enough space for each of these formats to grow for many years to come.

Good food is synonymous with Renaissance, but what other facilities can customers experience at your hotel?

(Elaborate on the restaurants as well) Yes, Renaissance Johor Bahru hotel has established itself as a leader in the food and beverage offering in Johor. Whether it is the buffet at our all day dining; Cafe BLD, or the Cantonese cuisine in Wan-Li, we have always strived to deliver authentic flavours to our customers. This is also the reason that we host a large number of weddings at our hotel. The Ballroom and pre-function with a capacity of 110 tables is the most popular wedding destination in Johor. The hotel room size is the largest amongst comparable hotels in the city. Another unique feature is the Executive Lounge on the 16th floor which can be accessed by our loyalty members and guests who book a club room or suite. Our pool terrace rooms, with direct access to the pool side, are extremely popular with the weekend travelers and are sold out couple of weeks in advance during busy periods. We continuously strive to offer the best experience to our customers and are now working to bring a world class spa centre to Johor.

Tell us more about your ballroom facilities We have one of the largest meeting and banquet spaces in Johor, suitable for both large weddings and conventions.

6,923.7sqft of ball room and prefunction space is complemented with 8 meeting rooms ranging from 322.0sqft to 1,351.8sqft. This entire facility is located on level 2 of the hotel which makes it very convenient for large conventions with multiple breakaway rooms. However it’s not just the large ballroom and meeting rooms that make us the leader in Johor. We have a dedicated team of event planners / wedding planners who are equipped to help guests plan their meeting or wedding flawlessly. Marriott International unique Meetings Imagined app helps a guest plan meeting and form ideas about different setups for tea/coffee breaks. Through this app you can also message our team while attending a meeting on your requirements.

So, innovation in the meeting spaces has been a key to our success.

Is the market challenging?

I will call Johor market exciting rather than challenging. There is a lot of push from the

government to develop Johor, not only as a business but also as a leisure destination.

This presents a great opportunity for all hotels in Johor to partner with the authorities and help position Johor as a No. 1 investment and tourist destination in Malaysia.

What are the 2 things that you would like to change in the hotel industry in Johor?

The hotel industry in Johor is like a family.

Organisations like MAH have given us a great platform to exchange ideas, address challenges and to access and develop new markets together with the travel and trade fraternity. We need to continue to cooperate on marketing Johor as a must visit destination in Malaysia.

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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

Book Week at Crescendo HELP International School

Engaging with some 300 students at Crescendo HELP International School as guest speaker at the start of their Book Week

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rescendo HELP International School had their Book Week recently with a range of exciting activities, from house writing competition to Bedtime Stories where students returned in the evening wearing pajamas, to book character dress-up day and meeting me.

After their successful inaugural Book Week last year, this year’s event was planned for three times the number of students, and more than three times the number of activities!

With an aim to inspire their students to love reading and writing, I was invited to participate with the school to kick-start the week of activities.

Event coordinator, Tammy Cyngier, wrote me with a proposed itinerary of activities and suggested that my presentation should include an introduction of myself, my inspiration and the amazing journey to the success of my

Signing my book, My Johor Stories: True Tales, Real People, Rich Heritage, for students after the presentation in the auditorium

book, My Johor Stories: True Tales, Real People, Rich Heritage.

Held in the auditorium, this presentation was for some 310 students and about 30 staff during the school’s morning assembly. I was also asked to do a book reading session with 50 Year Six students in the school library.

All this sounded very exciting as this assembly would be my largest audience thus far.

While preparing my presentation for this international school, I took into consideration, the students’ ages and cultural mix which was not only widely ranged but also made up of foreign nationalities.

Unlike local audiences, they might not have background knowledge of Johor culture and heritage so I adjusted the contents of my presentation and ensured that they could grasp what I shared with them.

On the appointed day, it felt like I was going back to school because I should be on time for assembly!

I was welcomed on arrival by a team of Student Leaders and Student Council members, aged between 16 and 17, and ushered into a waiting room.

Over tea with Principal Philip Brisley and these students, he encouraged the teenagers to chat with me as an opportunity to develop their social skills with a visitor.

Later at the auditorium, I watched as students came in and sat down on the floor while the teaching staff sat on chairs that lined the rear wall.

A trophy and medals were on the table and the principal explained that

news

their weekly assembly was also a time to recognise the students’ recent achievements in the presence of the staff and students.

And then it was my turn to address the audience.

Using some old photographs published in my book, I introduced myself and my family and A reading session with Year Six students held in the shared with them a little school library about my school-going years and where I grew up. book.

I also introduced our grandparents I invited these lively 12-year olds and explained how my siblings, cousins and I to raise their hands if they had questions lived with them so that we could go to school and I had no trouble answering their more conveniently. cute queries.

Earlier on in the assembly, the The session went on smoothly principal acknowledged the achievement of a as I kept the youngsters engaged student who excelled in badminton so it was by interacting with them and giving easy to connect the audience to that game. relevant illustrations to help them Next I showed a photograph of our understand what I was reading. grandparents and Uncle Billy with the Thomas “I wish there was a longer period Cup, used in my story, “Where champions for the assembly so I could hear even were born.” more,” commented Student LeaderI pointed out that both my Deputy Head Girl, Ng Zhi Yun, after my grandfather and grandmother enjoyed presentation. playing badminton, and grandfather – a fourStudent Leader-Deputy Head time Johor state champion in the 1930s – had Boy, Satoshi Omata, added that even trained champions. though he may not be a writer, he was My grandmother was featured in a inspired and felt ready to share his own separate story, “The Real Champion” as she experience with future generations was the mother of badminton champions because he survived the horrific and passed away at the ripe old age of 103. earthquake and tsunami in 2011.

I mentioned that one of the sports “You are doing something achievements by my mother’s youngest so invaluable: bringing together sister, Aunty Sylvia, as the first and only Asian generations with your stories and in woman to win a Commonwealth Singles the case of our students, stirring within Gold, was a record that remains unbroken to their hearts an appreciation and love this day. for the older folks – their parents and [Later I met History teacher Paul Blake grandparents,” said Deputy Principal – in the canteen, who said he borrowed a photo Pastoral Care, Tan Seow Heng. of Aunty Sylvia (from the internet!) on her Finally, Principal Brisley succinctly 1978 triumphal win at the Commonwealth summed it up: “It’s the recording of the Games, to explain the Commonwealth impact of events and developments that concept which he was then teaching his allows us to grow and benefit from the class.] past. Your accounts of people, places I also shared with the students that and society, will carry future generations while I lived with my grandparents, I learnt forward...” a great deal from them. Looking back, this A week later, Tan told me that she knowledge that I accumulated helped to gave the Year Nine and Year 10 students flesh out my stories when I wrote about an assignment to write in their journal Johor personalities, its culture and wealth of on the topic, “My Thoughts on Book heritage.

Week” and it was interesting that most Then I had the pleasure to autograph of them wrote about me! my books for students and teachers who wanted to present my book as gifts to their mothers and families not just here but also in South Africa, Australia, Sri Lanka, UK and USA! Then it was time for my reading session in the library. I arrived to see 50 Year Six youngsters, arranging themselves comfortably on beanbags, Interacting with Student Leaders and Student Council ready to listen to me members to encourage them in the development of reading excerpts from my social skills

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J U N E 2 0 18

E D I S iN

are 2 s e l ib Incred atch Niall C back + frojack and ,A Horan this June more

JUN 2018 | Page 2

The Iskandarian | WAVES Lifestyle

editor’s L note

ast month the whole country was gripped to their seats in excitement thanks to the outcome of GE14.

We’d like to sincerely wish well for a prosperous and peaceful nation.

Moving on, in our Music column, we bring you updates as to who’s who will be in town (Singapore) and find out how you can purchase your tickets if you don’t want to miss Niall Horan or Afrojack, DJ Snake and more!

Released in 2004, “The Incredibles” grossed more than $633 million worldwide, earning over $70 million in the opening weekend. 14 years later, the beloved family

Priya Manikam waves.lifestyle@gmail.com

is back in Incredibles 2 for more action and adventure!

From the makers of Faculty of Caffeine, The Replacement Lodge & Kitchen and Shakespeare Milkshakes, we bring you its latest offerings from Tropique Café & Restaurant at Taman Ekoflora for dining with a difference. As its still Ramadan with Hari Raya around the corner, check our website for Iftar and Raya specials.

June spells holidays and with public holidays approaching soon thanks to the festivities, go somewhere local and check out theme parks for a fun day out with the family. For convenience, stay at Somerset

MUSIC UPDATES

By Universal Music Singapore

Snow Patrol, and Upcoming Artistes in Singapore

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now Patrol – Wildness On 25th May 2018, Snow Patrol returned with ‘Wildness’, their first album in seven years, which finds the band searching for clarity, connection, and meaning, while staying true to the melodic songwriting prowess that brought them to prominence.

Wildness taps into something raw and primitive, and lead-singer and songwriter Gary Lightbody says of the album, “There are many types of wildness, but I think it can be distilled into two: the wildness of the modern age, all its confusion, illogic and alienation and a more ancient wildness.

Something primal, alive and beautiful that speaks to our true connectivity, our passion, our love, our communion with nature and each other. This is

the kind of wildness the album is centred on – “The loss of it, Trying to reconnect with it and To remember it.”

Niall Horan, Afrojack, DJ Snake and More June is the month to look out for as some artistes will be in Singapore to trance you with their live performances. First up is Irish singer-songwriter Niall Horan’s Flicker World Tour on the 12th June 2018 at The Star Theatre. In September last year, Horan announced he will be releasing his debut solo album, Flicker on 20th October 2017.

The Flicker World Tour is the second concert tour by Horan which began on 10th March 2018. Tickets and event details may be found via http://www. apactix.com/events/detail/niallhoran-2018.

Next up from 15th – 16th June 2018, will be the 3rd edition of Ultra Singapore at Ultra Park, Marina Bay Sands. Be prepared to be thrilled by trance legends Above & Beyond, Afrojack, DJ Snake, Nicky Romero, and Steve Angello, who will be making revered returns to the Ultra Singapore’s main stage across the two-day festival.

Loco Dice headlines the Resistance Stage, together with Coyu, Nastia, Popof, and Osia.

Trap and bass lovers can look forward to the inaugural debut of Miami’s signature Worldwide Stage, which will see the firstever outings of artists like RL Grime, NGHTMRE + Slander, Illenium and JOYRYDE in Singapore.

Fo r m o re details and tickets logon to https:// ultrasingapore.com/tickets/2018/

Puteri Harbour which is a perfect choice thanks to its proximity for entertainment in the area and also with lots of dining options overlooking the marina.

As always, for those wishing to share their fashion collection, travel tales, or like us to review your restaurant/hotel for a staycation, drop me an e-mail at waves. lifestyle@gmail.com and be featured. For more news, do access www.theiskandarian. com We’d like to wish all our Muslim readers Selamat Hari Raya!

Priya

JUN 2018 | Page 3

The Iskandarian | WAVES Lifestyle

Can We Love Through Confrontation? – Part 2

E 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

veryone has a fair share in confrontations.

It is estimated that half of the population in this world are the source that expresses the essence of confrontations, and the other half are the ones who magnifies it.

Everyone seems to be doing it naturally without needing to learn what it is, and most of us deal with confrontation unconsciously. After all, this is the art of the body bonding with another body whether through an emotional level, spiritual or physically.

Turning confrontation into love If you have an intention to change and heal the world, first begin to understand your emotions

and its confrontations. The pain and emotional sufferings that we experience comes from unresolved confrontations. Ask ourselves; are there any confrontations that we have not resolved? The answers could be individual and when we delve deeper into this question, we will find profound answers that carry all humanity’s pain. For example, our human psyche is embedded with unresolved confrontations that our ancestors started hundreds or thousands of years ago. That confrontation alone could have chained our freedom to evolve through love. And note that we will lose our inner peace just because we want to avoid confrontations.

In an individual level and relationship

(marriage, friendship and etc), we can resolve confrontation through conscious discussion. We should take responsibilities on every word that we choose to speak during confrontation and of every emotion that we emit into this world. Also, all parties must be willing to participate without judgement. Just like friction, confrontation can help us grow in our relationship.

Nature grows beautifully through friction.

Observe the seeds that turn into sprouts. It all happens gracefully and yet there is friction in it. Although the friction could be different on a mechanical level, but the principle is the same; that we all grow and evolve through frictions and confrontation.

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

INCREDIBLES 2 Genre: Animation-adventure Release date: 14th June 2018 Cast: Craig T. Nelson, Holly Hunter, Sarah Vowell, Huck Milner, Samuel L Jackson, Brad Bird, Bob Odenkirk, Catherine Keener, Jonathan Banks, Sophia Bush, Isabella Rossellini Director: Brad Bird Producer: John Walker, Nicole Grindle

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n “Incredibles 2,” Helen (voice of Holly Hunter) is called on to lead a campaign to bring Supers back, while Bob (voice of Craig T. Nelson) navigates the day-to-day heroics of “normal” life at home with Violet (voice of Sarah Vowell), Dash (voice of Huck Milner) and baby Jack-Jack—whose superpowers are about to be discovered!

Their mission is derailed, however, when a new villain emerges with a brilliant and dangerous plot that threatens everything. But the Parrs don’t shy away from a challenge, especially with Frozone (voice of Samuel L. Jackson) by their side. That’s what makes this family so Incredible.

JUN 2018 | Page 4

The Iskandarian | WAVES Lifestyle

018 Y 2 MA

dar Calen ts n of Eve JB, 1st June

Book Fair 2018 @ Arulmigu Rajamariamman Temple JB

JB, 1st – 3rd June Megahome 2018 @ Persada Johor

S’pore, 1st – 2nd June Concert Series @ Lee Foundation Theatre, S’pore

JB, 3rd June Acrylic Techniques Workshop @ VC Art Stat, AEON Mall Bandar Dato Onn

S’pore, 7th June Nurture in Nature @ Sg. Buloh Wetland Reserve, S’pore

JB, 8th – 9th June Media Prima Anggun Fest @ Persada Johor

JB, 9th June Children’s Workshop @ VC Art Stat, AEON Mall Bandar Dato Onn

JB, 10th June Rooster Golf Tournament @ Tg. Puteri Golf Resort

S’pore, 8th – 9th June Pitstops For Kids Carnival @ Park Avenue Convention Centre, S’pore

15th – 17th June Hari Raya Puasa

17th June Father’s Day

JB, 19th June

travel From Sunset to Sunrise at Somerset Puteri Harbour Infinity pool overlooking the harbour

By Edey Suresh waves.lifestyle@gmail.com

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lmost everyone who opts for a stay in Puteri Harbour in Iskandar Puteri will most likely mention Jen Hotel as their accommodation. Often overlooked is the splendid alternative, Somerset Puteri Harbour. Opened in February 2014, and with 204 units of luxury serviced apartments with hotel like services, Somerset Puteri Harbour Iskandar Puteri is under The Ascott Limited group which is a Singapore company that has grown to be one of the leading international serviced residence owner-operators and the largest international serviced residence owner-operator in the world. Its portfolio spans more than 120 cities across over 30 countries.

As part of the luxurious waterfront development of Puteri Harbour, Somerset Puteri Harbour Iskandar Puteri is near quayside lifestyle stores, fine dining restaurants, alfresco cafés and a family indoor theme park featuring popular children’s characters. Furthermore, it is just 10 minutes away from LEGOLAND Malaysia Resort.

The Serviced Residence offers spacious apartments ranging from studios to three-bedroom units that come fullyfurnished with modern amenities. With facilities such as a gymnasium, swimming pool, restaurant and residents’ lounge available at the property, Somerset Puteri Harbour Iskandar Puteri provides the ideal home away from home for travellers and their families to live, work and play.

The accommodation is perfect for

Simple but delicious spread of continental and local delicacies families looking for work-life balance at the same time being a stylish home with recreational facilities, lifestyle activities and business support services. In terms of leisure, they offer a children’s play area, children’s wading pool, a fully-equipped gymnasium for the fit buffs, a Residents’ programme, lounge with outdoor garden and a swimming pool.

If you’re from out of town, they have airport transfer services including limousine and shuttle buses. For the business travellers, they have a business centre with Wireless Internet Connectivity (WiFi) and they also offer secretarial as well as courier services to enable you to complete your urgent work.

Breakfast is served daily with a simple but delicious spread of continental and local delicacies.

The surrounding Puteri Harbour area has steadily been attracting more footfalls with more restaurants capitalising on the harbour front as an attraction by itself. Apart from the first-ever Sanrio Hello Kitty Town outside of Japan, as well as Barney, Thomas the Tank Engine, Angelina Ballerina, Pingu and Bob the Builder, there are plateful of restaurants ranging from the traditional Malay food at Singgah Selalu, fine dining Indian food at Spice Grill, Sushi King for the sushi lovers and Magnum Sports Café for awesome burgers to name a few.

So, book your next stay at Somerset Puteri Harbour Iskandar Puteri for comfort and convenience. For more information and reservations, contact 07- 287 1011 or fax 07- 287 1002 or email enquiry. iskandarputeri@the-ascott.com.

AMBITIOUS: Dr Jason’s Asian Comedy Tour @ Puteri Pan Pacific

S’pore, 23rd June 8th ASEAN Dengue Day @ Tan Tock Seng Hospital, S’pore

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

Produce from the spice garden can be plucked by guests for cooking needs

Modern design and spacious living at Somerset

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live

What is ‘Superfood’?

Joyce Tan Sze Chia

‘

Consultant Dietitian Master in Nutrition and Dietetics (Flinders University) Real Food Matters

Superfood’ is loosely defined as food of high nutritional level which contributes to overall well-being. It is commonly used as a marketing term by food companies and health gurus to promote a certain food/food product. Most ‘superfoods’ tend to be ‘exotic’ natural foods such as goji

berries, coconut oil and chia seeds, and they can be costly.

In EU (European Union), food companies are banned from using this term unless they are supported by scientific evidences.

Consumers need to be aware that there is no single food including superfood that contains all essential nutrients required for good health. If the quality of our diet is poor to begin with, not even the so-called superfood is able to undo the damage done to our body.

Choosing to eat healthy is a choice, and by making small changes to your diet, you are setting yourself up for success.

Below are some healthy eating strategies that you can incorporate today for a healthier lifestyle: Start your day right by eating a healthy breakfast Wholegrains such as oats, wholemeal breads and brown rice are high in dietary fibre, vitamin B and minerals. Not only do they keep you full for longer periods (good for people who are watching their weight), they have cholesterol-lowering properties that help to reduce your risk of stroke and heart attack.

Reduce the portion size of unhealthy food Swearing off certain food can be an uphill task for most people. You may try to reduce the portion size of unhealthy food and make up the rest with healthier options. For example, you can replace half of your Biryani rice with plain steamed rice.

Choose unsweetened beverages Sugar sweetened beverages such as commercial fruit juice, soft drinks, sweetened tea and coffee can contribute significantly to

your daily calorie intake which may lead to weight gain. Replace these beverages with plain water, plain tea (e.g. Chinese tea, Green tea) or coffee with less sugar.

Choose healthier snacks People often mistake the thirst for hunger in between meals. Before you reach out for that bag of chips, drink a glass of water and wait for 5-10 minutes. If you are still hungry, choose nutritious snacks such as a piece of fruit, a small tub of plain yoghurt or a small handful of unsalted nuts. TI

What do Singaporeans buy in JB? – Part One We all know it - That bumper to bumper traffic between JB and Singapore Causeways over the weekends but why do we still cross the Causeway anyway?

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ewspapers have reported how the number of traffic grows during long weekends and public holidays. Yet, we still see throngs of people flooding the gates of the immigrations and queuing up for buses to get in and out of Johor Bahru (JB).

But why? What is the appeal that JB has towards Singaporeans? What keeps Singaporeans coming back for more?

The obvious answer is of course the cost of goods! With the conversion rate plus the current scrapping of GST to 0%, a lot of things in JB - well, actually Malaysia in general - comes off much cheaper for Singaporeans. They can save on a good day, almost half of their regular expenses should they engage in shopping and recreation in Malaysia instead of Singapore.

That’s not to say that Singapore isn’t a haven for shopping and quality goods - we know Malaysians love coming down to Orchard Road, Geylang, Little India and Chinatown and there’s so much of sightseeing in Singapore that we will forever ooh and aah at (although, admittedly, JB isn’t falling behind very far with so many new developments).

Let’s get into more specifics though.

What are these things that Singaporeans

are willing to bear immigration queues and traffic congestions for?

Food Of course, Southeast Asians are known for their love of food. And where there’s cheap and good food, you know there are people flocking towards it. The percentages of how much food prices have increased in Singapore over the past 20 years are quite shocking. Even one of the cheapest options - food at hawker centres - has increased by at least 38.6% (as last recorded by the Singapore Department of Statistics). This

is the statistics for cooked food, but your necessities like milk have also increased rather significantly. It is understandable then why young parents brave the crowds over the weekend to stock up on milk powder and even diapers for their babies to have that extra few dollars in hand that they could spend on something else.

Medical With the eligibility of using Medisave in hospitals in West Malaysia (currently two hospitals - one of which is in Johor), Singaporeans are now given the option for cheaper healthcare. Even if they do not use their Medisave, the general

cost of medical consultations in Johor is considerably cheaper than what is usually paid in Singapore. One could save a few hundred dollars on going to the dentist for braces here versus getting them done in Singapore. You may argue that the cost of travelling could bring the overall total back to the same amount that they would’ve paid in Singapore, but having spoken to people who have chosen to get braces done in JB, this author found that they still can save both money and time by travelling during off-peak hours. Even something as simple as over-the-counter lozenges for a sore throat can lessen the burden on both the throat and the pocket. - by Manisha Dhalani TI

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Tiny Island of Treasures: Pulau Merambong

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tiny gem in between Malaysia and Singapore, Pulau Merambong lies in the Tebrau Straits, close to Mukim Tanjung Kupang.

It is a small island with a startling array of biodiversity, from lowland forest to mangroves, rocky shores and soft coral patches on its fringes.

The island is home to myriad animals, from egrets to herons, monitor lizards to centipedes, as well as turtles, squid and octopuses. The island does not have freshwater but it is a popular picnic spot and many locals head there for an afternoon swim or to scout for mussels, clams and cockles on its shores. Local fishermen set up their nets in the surrounding shallows while others fish with rod and line nearby. Several have seen dugongs in the area during dawn or dusk when the tide changes.

Not only is the island a natural treasure chest, it also has a magical history.

Tucked within its forest is a royal shrine, which some people visit for blessings and good fortune. Local folklore has it that there is a big reptile on the island that guards a

Serina Rahman Serina Rahman is the co-founder of Kelab Alami and a Visiting Fellow at the ISEAS-Yusof Ishak Institute, Singapore.

diamond under its unique rock formations.

Older residents of Mukim Tg Kupang have many tales of magic and mystery from the island and most people are careful not to take home anything other than food when they leave.

Kelab Alami Mukim Tg Kupang conducts guided habitat tours at Pulau Merambong during the low tide. For more information, please email Kelab Alami at kelabalami.walks@gmail.com. TI

live

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work

The Outcome of Unlawful Dismissal Ashikin Abd Rahim Legal Adviser MECA South Sdn. Bhd. shikin@meca.com.my

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hen you serve your employee termination letter, the next 60 days are always the hot waiting period because you’ll be waiting for an indication from the Industrial Relations Department whereby each time ‘Abang POS Laju’ comes by and delivers parcels, you’d wonder if there are any “loveletters” included!

Why are employers concerned about unlawful dismissal claims? This is because the liability of terminating an employee is an expected outcome right after the termination happens. The financial aspect is the main concern behind an occurrence of termination. This is because if the court finds the termination unjust, the employer

then needs to pay up to a maximum of 24 months’ salary as back wages to that particular employee. If the employee is in a high- position, then this amount will balloon as compared to an employee who earns much lesser than him.

What are back wages?

Back wages refer to orders by the Industrial Court to compensate the losses that the claimant has suffered due to termination.

The intention lying behind this order is to put the claimant back in position that he/she would have been, if he/she had not been dismissed. The maximum amount of back wages that can be awarded to a confirmed employee is 24 months of their last drawn salary. Meanwhile, probationers are entitled to an amount up to 12 months of their last salary.

Besides back wages, another remedy for employers to look at is reinstatement - which is a chance for the employer to get the employee back on board, if possible. Otherwise, the employer

needs to pay compensation in lieu of reinstatement where the Court will order 1 month’s salary for each year of service.

The total amount that an employee is entitled to receive

is up to 24 months of back wages and 1 month / year of service as compensation in lieu of reinstatement. This is clearly a huge amount especially for employees who were in high-

ranking positions or have served the Company for a long time.

This monetary loss suffered would have been avoidable if the termination at the earlier stage was done rightfully. TI

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invest

New Era for the Malaysian Stock Market Tips & Tricks

Time to Hold More Cash

Tey Bin Yuen

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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

n the stock market, there is no such thing as a sure thing. In politics, it’s probably the same.

With the GE14 result finalised and the faster than expected transition done, the Malaysian stock market has moved to a new era.

While the market anticipated there would be high volatility in the first few trading days’ right after the election, it only happened in the first trading hour, with positive sentiment following through afterwards. The FBMKLCI Index ended up 3.9 points higher in the first trading day on 14th May 2018 and by the time you read this article, the new line-up of cabinet ministers would have been announced, signaling the new governance to bring Malaysia to greater heights.

So, what do we expect for the stock market?

If there is no black swan in the global stock market, I wouldn’t be surprised in the next few months if: 1. The Composite Index FBMKLCI

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.

breaks new highs, for the market recognises a series of action plans and promises delivered by the new government.

2. The Ringgit strengthens as foreign funds will re-enter Malaysia as a matter of confidence, especially with the recovering crude oil price.

3. Small cap stocks that had deep correction in April due to fear will return to their previous highs or even break new highs, provided their earnings for the next few quarters are within expectation.

4. Liquidity and volume of Malaysian stock market would increase; as those who did not believe in the Malaysian stock market would start to believe. In addition, more Singaporeans will start buying Malaysian shares, because the link between Malaysia and Singapore

stock exchanges will be setup by the year-end.

With a relatively stable global stock market currently coupled with the newly minted administration, should we make some adjustment to our portfolio?

The answer is ‘yes’.

As you can see, while our table has showed a gain of 195% since November 2015, the two counters bought earlier have gone into red because of their poor quarter results. Let’s observe one more quarter to decide if we should sell them.

Sold EKOVEST and MMODE before election Construction companies tend to have higher market risks when the general election comes, for their political-linked nature means that

they will no longer be able to secure new contracts as easy with the new government. To eliminate this risk, we sold all Ekovest and Mmode shares two weeks before the GE14.

The sales had incurred losses at RM24750.

Bought KESM and HEVEA after election KESM is the largest independent burn-in provider globally, which is riding on the strong growth in the automotive semiconductor segment. With its current PE at nearly 16, plus its 30-40% yearly growth in the last four years, the price below RM16 is deemed very attractive. We bought 5000 shares of KESM at RM15.9 per share.

HEVEA is a particleboard and RTA (Ready to Assemble) manufacturer and trading company.

Its high-grade particleboard has given the company an edge to separate from its competitors. In terms of valuation, Hevea’s PE ratio is hovering from 7-8. Hevea is a net cash company and pays generous dividend, which is close to 6% at the price of RM0.8. We bought 80000 shares of Hevea at RM0.83 for its low valuation and bright prospects.

With the sales of Ekovest, Mmode and the investment of Kesm and Hevea, our cash level is now at RM82,725.

On a side note, while some investors were looking at companies that are linked to the new government, it’s not a good idea to chase them. Even though you have seen their share prices going up right after the election, if they are not fundamentally sound, it will not be sustainable.

Let me put it this way; regardless who becomes the government, the way you select a company is still the same. It has to have sound fundamentals such as good business model, low valuation, and high growth prospect and under good management.

So, as the fundamentals of a company are crucially important, so is a country’s. With Malaysia’s newly minted government, who is trustworthy, competent and business friendly, Malaysia’s fundamentals have turned much stronger. With this, I’m optimistic that the Malaysian stock market will perform well for the years to come. TI

Foreign Investment In Malaysia’s Petrochemicals Industry Gains Momentum

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rojects to expand refining capacity coupled with rising demand for downstream hydrocarbons products are attracting increased investment in Malaysia’s petrochemicals industry, while recovering oil prices are driving increased upstream expenditure.

In l ate M a rc h Malaysia’s national oil and gas company, Petronas, and Saudi Aramco announced the creation of two joint ventures for the Refinery and Petrochemicals Integrated Development (RAPID) project in Johor.

This came a month after the two companies concluded negotiations regarding Saudi Aramco’s US$7 billion investment in the project.

This represents the largest offshore investment ever made by Saudi Aramco and is the largest-ever foreign direct investment (FDI) in Malaysia, according

to government officials.

Saudi Ara m co and Petronas conclude RAPID negotiations The collaboration will give the two companies equal participation in and ownership of the RAPID project, which consists of a refinery with the capacity to process 300,000 barrels of crude oil per day, and six petrochemicals plants with a combined annual output of more than 3.5 million tonnes.

Saudi Aramco will supply 50 to 70 per cent of the crude feedstock for the refinery, while Petronas will provide natural gas, power and other utilities.

The refinery, which will produce products including petrol and diesel that will meet Euro 5 fuel specifications, is expected to come on-line at the start of 2019, followed by the petrochemicals plants towards the end of that year.

I n addition to

the Saudi oil giant, the downstream expansion has captured the attention of another international player.

In late February SK Group announced it had begun talks with Petronas about potentially investing in the RAPID project, as well as a possible partnership in petrochemicals and renewable energy projects.

SK Group is South Korea’s second-largest conglomerate by market capitalisation and already has a presence in the Malaysian energy market, partnering with Petronas on oil and gas imports.

Investment levels exceed 2017 target International downstream interest has been fuelled by rising internal and external demand for petroleum products, coupled with Malaysia’s efforts to expand its refining capabilities to position itself as a regional hub for major oil and gas

services and equipment (OGSE) companies.

The country, which already fulfils most demand for refined produc ts domestically, aims to double its production capacity with the help of wider downstream development in Johor, namely the US$27 billion Pengerang Integrated Complex (PIC), of which the RAPID project forms part.

Alongside the RAPID refinery and plants, the 6242ha PIC will feature associated facilities including a 1,220MW cogeneration plant, a regasification terminal with annual capacity of 3.5 million tonnes, a deepwater terminal, an air separation unit and raw water supply.

The projec t is currently 87 per cent complete.

The PIC is contained within the larger 22,000ha Pengerang Integrated Petroleum Complex, the single largest investment project in the country.

With the help of such projects, last year Malaysia recorded more than RM724.5 million (US$187.1 million) in FDI or domestic direct investment from OGSE companies, exceeding the year’s target of RM650 million (US$167.9 million).

According to a 2017 report on the progress of the National Transformation Programme, the national blueprint for achieving highincome status by 2020, this has put the sector on track to achieve its 2020 investment target of RM10 billion (US$2.6 billion).

Petronas hikes capital expenditure in upstream activities Petronas is also placing a greater focus on upstream investment this year, announcing in early March that it would increase capital expenditure by almost 24 per cent to RM55 billion (US$13.2 billion) in order to pursue its long-term growth strategy.

At an earnings briefing in March, Wan Zulkiflee Wan Ariffin, president and chief executive officer of Petronas, said upstream investment will in part focus on expanding its resource base in geographically strategic regions, including Asean, the Indian sub-continent, the Middle East and the US. It will be the first time in three years that Petronas has hiked capital expenditure outlays, a reflection of the improved operational environment resulting from production controls and rising oil prices.

Nevertheless, the projected spending for 2018 is well short of that of 2015, when Petronas allocated RM48.7 billion (US$11.7 billion) for upstream activities. The more measured approach aims to avoid putting excessive pressure on supply and development chains, keeping prices in check. TI

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raduating from college has always been a dream for many young adults. MDIS College Malaysia has made this dream come true for their students who had enrolled in their Certificate and Diploma programmes.

This pioneering convocation ceremony was held at the Grand Ballroom of KSL Hotel & Resort with a total of 244 graduates conferred with Certificates and Diplomas.

CEO of MDIS College Malaysia, Professor Dato’ Syed Ahmad Hussein gave his best wishes to the new graduates, “To all graduates from the School of Business and Management, School of Information Technology, School of Media and Communications, School of Tourism and Hospitality, School of Language and General Studies, please accept my heartfelt congratulations and best wishes

Inaugural Celebration of Graduates from MDIS Malaysia MDIS College Malaysia celebrated its first batch of graduates at their inaugural convocation ceremony as you embark on a new chapter of your life journey.”

“Co nvo c at i o n is a celebration of success after years of formal learning. It marks the end of one phase and the beginning of another,” he added.

Other awards presented on the day were MDIS College Malaysia’s Best Student Award, EduCity Top Students Award, High Achiever Award, and Educity Top Performing Student Award.

Among the students who achieved recognition and was awarded the MDIS College Malaysia’s Best Student and EduCity Top Student Awards were Koo Chee Wei (Diploma in International Business), Teoh Boon Yuan (Diploma in Marketing), Yin Cheng Sheng (Diploma in Business Management), Vivian Then Jin Ting (Diploma in Accounting), Chong Shin Ni (Diploma in Mass Communication), Yan Sook

Motivating Students to Personal Excellence

Guest speaker Nicholas Vincent from NWorks Photography imparting his knowledge to the students

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ome 50 at-risk students attended a motivational talk organised by SMK Taman Selesa Jaya in collaboration with the Johor Bahru District Education Office or Pejabat Pelajaran Daerah Johor Baru (PPD JB).

While most public secondary schools are dealing with absenteeism among a host of problems with their students, records indicate a drastic increase of such cases in the last two decades.

In view of this, a ‘Motivation for Personal Excellence’ event was arranged with a half-day programme of talks by guest speakers, aimed at giving students an awareness of their error in consistently being absent from school and its dire consequences if this behavior went unchecked.

In the current education system, Form Five students and school-leavers are issued with a School Leaving Certificate where the remarks recorded included the number of days the student was absent from school.

Students who do not hold a SPM certificate would present their School Leaving Certificate when they apply for a job or the next course of study. And if the certificate

education

showed that the student was a regular absentee, this would reflect badly on his/ her character and may not be considered for the job.

With the support of school Principal, Safar Zainal, a team of teachers and counsellors identified the group of at-risk students and invited them to the event.

“The success is yours and for your own future”, said the Principal as he encouraged the Form Four and Form Five students to work hard to pass their SPM examination.

Students were advised not to waste their education opportunity but to look further into their future and have no regrets later because life could get challenging without this certificate.

They were reminded that while schools have to maintain their rules and regulations, it was not worth it if students were expelled due to absenteeism.

Guest s p e a k e r, professional photographer, Nicholas Vincent of NWorks Photography, the first Indian from Johor to be added into the prestigious Master Photographers Association UK in 2015, encouraged the students with his own journey

to success.

After his talk, there was a tea break and it was encouraging that four students stayed back and approached Nicholas to ask more questions about a career in photography.

Sensing their genuine interest and to encourage them to pursue photography as a hobby, Nicholas offered to give these students a basic course in photography.

When Inspector Wong Chee Hoong walked into the room, there was complete silence. Inspector Wong did not mince his words as he shared his experience about dealing with youths arrested for crimes that were committed on behalf of their tah-ker, Mandarin jargon for ‘big brother’ or crime lord.

As the Officer-in-charge of the Iskandar Puteri Police Station, Inspector Wong said he often received requests from organisations to check the backgrounds of job applicants to ascertain if they had any criminal record.

He explained that a criminal record is permanent and it would affect future career opportunities because the reality is, employers are not likely to employ anyone with a criminal record.

He went on to share about his own career in the Police force and encouraged the students to work towards achieving the minimum qualifications to join the service.

After providing the motivational input as beneficial alternatives to absenteeism, the school hopes that it would steer the students towards changing their attitude and instead, aim for personal excellence and a better future for themselves. by Peggy Loh TI

An MDIS College Malaysia graduate receiving his diploma

Juen (Diploma in Information Technology), and Michelle Lim Shuet Yee (Diploma in Tourism Management).

Michelle Lim also was awarded MDIS College Malaysia High Achiever Award and EduCity Top Performing Student Award.

MDIS Malaysia College is preparing to shift to its new

campus in EduCity pending the Certificate of Completion and Compliance from local authorities and the formal approval of the Ministry of Higher Education. MDIS embraces a culture of lifelong learning to nurture and maximise the potential of their stakeholders, who are their students and lecturers. - by Harish Mustak TI

Alumni of SSI Johor Bahru Celebrates Golden Moments

The newly-appointed committee members received their ‘certificate of appointment’ from Yazid at the event

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00 alumni from Sekolah Menengah Kebangsaan Sultan Ismail (SSI) Johor Bahru gathered at a reunion dinner recently at Mutiara Johor Bahru hotel. Organised by the committee members of SSI Alumni (session 20182019), the long-awaited event saw many long-lost friends reunited for the first time.

Strangers no more, alumni from multiple batches mingled with their fellow teenage friends and started new friendships.

“The main objective of the movement is to gather as many alumni as possible under one association. This union will enable us to be a strong association, having various skills, expertise and knowledge assembled under one group to benefit current SSI students and other alumni at large. Indirectly, it will also quicken our response to pledges from the school and surrounding communities,” said the newly-elected Chairman of the SSI Alumni, Hj Yazid Mohamed. Further, he added “One of our much-celebrated alumni, Professor Datuk Dr Awang Sarian could not be with us tonight, but we will be reading some poems that he wrote. Albeit his busy schedule and achievements, he still holds SSI very dear to his heart.”

The alumni committee team members have also embarked on documenting and preserving activities online. Hence, the official social media sites for the association were unveiled at the dinner; its Facebook (Alumni SSI Johor Bahru) and Instagram (alumnissijb) were presented for the very first time. Further, SSI Alumni can now get their own SSI

Alumni KA$H card when they register with the association. KA$H is a prepaid Mastercard with world-wide ATM facilities; the cashless payment system offers KA$HRewards Programme with discounts and cash-back privileges when used at participating outlets such as KFC, Ayamas, Metrojaya, Mydin, Zalora, Sephora, Lazada, Uniqlo, Agoda and more.

Dato’ Abd Latiff Yusof who has been the Mayor of Johor Bahru and the Johor State Secretary, DJ Dave Madhavan from JOHORfm, Chef Karim from Hotel Grand Bluewave Johor Bahru and Daeng Ahmad Salim Bachok who recently retired from the editorial helm at Harian Metro were some of SSI alumni seen at the event. One of SSI’s long list of national entertainers, Hj Salleh Sadijo or known by his stage name SADJ, also made an appearance and entertained guests with hits from his album. Salleh is also an Executive Producer at Johor’s famous production house, Jojos Production that nurtured EXIST and shot the Johorborn group to stardom. SSI’s headmaster, Hj Abdul Halil Abu Bakar was also present at the event, citing the SSI Alumni association as the school’s ‘right wing’ and hoped more alumni will join the association.

The SSI Alumni committee members are made up of 19 prominent volunteers who are keen to gather alumni from all walks of life. Six autonomous bureaus were formed to run the association smoothly, i.e.

IT and Multimedia, PR, Economic, Religious and Charity Services, Youth, Sports and Recreation, and Education, Motivation and Counselling. - by The Iskandarian TI

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Hermo Turns 6!

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ood news to beauty addicts as Hermo, one of Malaysia’s top one stop beauty centre will be celebrating its 6th year anniversary with a promotion campaign dubbed ‘Hermo 612 2018’ from 21st May to 24th June 2018. The unique campaign name was derived from its date of inception that took place on 12th June 2012 and in conjunction with the celebration, they’re introducing a new slogan ‘Hey, we are local!’

During this promotion period, Hermo users will enjoy Gifts with Purchase (GWP) with a minimum spending of RM88 to get unique handmade soap shaped as local delicacies such as Nasi Lemak and Laksa!

Brought to you by Dinomama Handmade Soap, another local brand based in Johor that specialises in creating unique handmade soaps and offers classes on soap-making, Hermo believes in collaborating with strong local brand name that delivers premium quality products for Malaysian and international users. Check out Hermo’s website to know the next latest design and collect all five (5) designs during the campaign period.

Fashion enthusiasts will

Great offers on local and international beauty brands as Hermo, Malaysia’s top beauty retailer celebrates its 6th year anniversary

6th year anniversary promo from 21st May to 24th June 2018

also enjoy FREE Hermo x Click Apparel Lazy Gal Makeup Bag with a minimum purchase of RM200.

Another homegrown brand that was founded back in 2010, Click Apparel offers users a unique option of customising your clothes and caps to reflect your unique sense of style with makeup bag reflecting the best of both the

beauty and fashion world. “ The number of promotion offered might seem overwhelming, but we are keen to give the best to our fans in conjunction with our 6th year anniversary as we have successfully reached this level of success through their unwavering support. Started with only 50

products in 2012, we are currently selling 10,000 products that are guaranteed 100% authentic as Hermo is a certified partner and distributor. Being a local company, we strive to continuously practice at an international standard in terms of our service and shopping experience as we’re looking at a total Asia takeover next,” said

Ian Chua, Chief Executive Officer, Hermo.

Using six (6) as the ‘lucky’ number in conjunction with the celebration, Hermo users will get to enjoy other great deals such as ‘RM6, RM1, RM2’ zone to enjoy premium products at an affordable price and the ‘Flash Deal’ promotion offers Hermo users great offerings every Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday (during the duration of the campaign) on a variety of items from 6pm to 11.59pm.

Other promotions include ‘Buy 1 free 6’ from 28th May to 30th May, ‘Bundle Buy 4 for RM48’ (4th June to 10th June) and ‘Everything under RM26’ (11th June to 17th June).

Another thing that beauty addicts should be on the lookout is the XOMO promotion where selected hot selling brands such as Heimish, Yadah, Naruko, Pyunkang Yul, Klairs, Mirae will be on sale for as low as 70% discount.

Hermo is also proud to announce their 6% rebate promotion on GST starting 21st May, 2018 on their products. For more information on the GST rebate and more information on promotions, check www.hermo.my or their social media handles. - by Harish Mustak TI

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PROPERTY INSIGHT

The Johor state government has abolished the Kuota Menegak Kerajaan or Political Quota scheme in the state’s affordable housing application

@ home

pg 24

PROPERTY

RESIDENTIAL PROJECTS

APARTMENTS

VILLAS

CONDOMINIUMS

OFFICE/RETAILSPACE

Keys to Meridin East’s Greenway Mah Sing’s biggest township, Meridin East carries out its first vacant pg 25 possession as well as preview for its new phase Read this article on our website

Impiana Hotel Senai

UMLand Seri Austin

Named as Best Hotel Interior

Bags another award

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UMLand Seri Austin Emerged as the Winner of the 5th PropertyGuru Asia Property Awards (Malaysia) 2018

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MLand Seri Austin was announced as the winner for the “Best Township Development” at the recent PropertyGuru Asia Property Awards (Malaysia) 2018 held at its fifth annual gala ceremony at the InterContinental Hotel Kuala Lumpur.

The award proved that hard work pays in maintaining the township’s highest quality

and standards, as well as incorporating aspects such as sustainability and lifestyle elements which are important and crucial.

“All of us at UMLand are deeply honoured to receive this special award for Seri Austin which recognised our commitment in delivering value, sustainable and conducive living development that are much sought after and another milestone

UMLand Seri Austin was the recipient of the Best Township Development category award

KK Wong, CEO Seri Austin cum Group Director of UMLand Townships (Left) Receiving Award from Dr Daniel Gambero at the PropertyGuru Asia Property Awards (Malaysia) 2018

for us. This is the 4th time UMLand Seri Austin emerged as the winner in different categories. We dedicate this achievement to our strong team in UMLand Seri Austin” said KK Wong, CEO Seri Austin cum Group Director of UMLand Townships.

Backed by a longstanding track record and combined years of experience, UMLand Seri

Impiana Hotel Senai Awarded as Best Hotel Interior for the Asia Pacific Property Awards 2018-2019

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mpiana Hotel Senai was named the Best Hotel Interior for the Asia Pacific Property Awards 20182019 recently.

The official Interior Designing partner for Impiana Hotel Senai, Metric Global Sdn Bhd was awarded the Asia Pacific Property Awards Interior Design 2018-2019 for Best Hotel Interior in Malaysia at Bangkok Marriott Marquis Queen’s Park on 4th May 2018.

Opened in October 2017,

Austin continues to deliver quality products on time.

UMLand Group believes in the tradition that makes it stronger as a reliable developer and value is created in all townships for homebuyers, investors and stakeholders.

The annual Proper tyguru Asia Property Awards (Malaysia) 2018 saw more than 20 developers and

construction companies with current projects in Kuala Lumpur, Klang Valley, Penang, and Iskandar Malaysia competing for the industry’s highest honours and special awards.

The judging system for the fifth edition of the awards was supervised by BDO Malaysia, the world’s fifth-largest auditing and accountancy firm. - by The Iskandarian TI

Winter Sonata Homes

by Country View Berhad

Impiana Hotel Senai is the first business hotel in the rapidly developing town of Senai, Johor, and is set to complement the demand for hospitality services as well as to cater to the needs of business and leisure travelers.

The Asia Pacific Property Awards celebrate the highest levels of achievement by companies operating in all sectors of the property and real estate industry.by The Iskandarian TI Each unit of the Winter Sonata series has six rooms, each equipped with an ensuite bathroom

C Metric Global Sdn Bhd was awarded the Asia Pacific Property Awards Interior Design 2018-2019 for Best Hotel Interior in Malaysia

ountry View Berhad has launched its three-storey cluster houses dubbed Winter Sonata.

The new launch will feature 140units up for purchase at Nusa Central. Buyers have options of two types of houses with different exterior designs at a starting nett price of RM950,000.

The freehold three-storey house was one of the most competitively priced houses in the region.

“The three-storey cluster houses also have 24-hour surveillance cameras with personal security to ensure the safety of the area.

“It is also very accessible as it is connected to the Iskandar Coastal Highway and the second link to Singapore via the newly completed four-lane carriageway that connects Nusa Sentral to Educit,” said Country View Berhad head of sales Andrew Tan. - by The Iskandarian TI

Quick Reads

Johor Government Abolishes KMK Quota The Johor state government has abolished the Kuota Menegak Kerajaan or Political Quota scheme (KMK) in the state’s affordable housing application.

State Rural Housing and Rural Development Committee Chairman Dzulkefly Ahmad said the Johor government abolished the KMK scheme following a lack of transparency in its implementation.

The state government is committed to ensuring that affordable homes in Johor reach target groups especially young people who needs comfortable and affordable housing.

“After the EXCO meeting held mid last month, we (the state government) will put aside political quota or KMK in distributing affordable housing worth RM40,000, RM80,000 and RM150,000 because the quota is not transparent, and may have been subjected to corruption due to abuse or wrong use of power, said Dzulkefly.

“The KMK scheme is just a policy and it can be decided within EXCO level meeting to obtain consent and does not need to be brought to the Johor State Assembly Conference”, he added.

Based on the KMK scheme implemented by the previous government, a number of affordable houses were allocated as a quota under Barisan Nasional (BN) and the application required a letter of support from the State Legislative Assembly (ADUN) of its component parties.

UMLand to Build Affordable Houses United Malayan Land Bhd (UMLand) held a ground breaking for a project to build 1,122 medium-cost flats under the Johor Affordable Housing Scheme as per the previous government.

UMLand will build the flats at UMLand Seri Alam spanning across a 7.47ha site. The Group said in a statement that it will take 36 months from commencement of construction to finish building all the units which will be priced RM80,000 (for 850 sq ft units) to RM150,000.00 (for 1000 sq ft units).

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ah Sing Group’s (Mah Sing’s) biggest township, Meridin East in Pasir Gudang celebrated its first Vacant Possession (VP) of its first parcel, The Greenway.

The Greenway is fully sold and comprises of 492 units of two (2)-storey linked homes with built ups starting from 1,595 sq ft. This is a milestone for Mah Sing as the handover kicks off the first of many quality homes to be handed over in the Group’s flagship 1,313 acre master-planned township, with The Eden scheduled for VP in Q3 2018.

Mah Sing’s Chief Executive Officer, Datuk Ho Hon Sang said, “We are glad to see our vision of Meridin East finally come to life.

On behalf of Mah Sing, I would like to congratulate the residents of The Greenway on successfully completing their homeownership journey. Residents of The Greenway can take pride in being the first group of people to not only kickstart the Meridin East Township, but also Mah Sing’s first VP of the year.”

Meridin East is situated in Pasir Gudang, Iskandar Malaysia, a gated and guarded township that will be developed over the next 12 to 15 years. The 1,313 acre integrated mixed development has a Gross Development Value (GDV) of RM5billion and is Mah Sing Group’s biggest development by acreage.

As Meridin East is located within close proximity of the booming Pasir Gudang Industrial Hub and Tanjung Langsat Industrial Park, it will play an important role

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Keys to Meridin East’s Greenway Mah Sing’s biggest township, Meridin East carries out its first vacant possession as well as preview for its new phase

Happy homeowners receive the keys to their unit at The Greenway, Meridin East

Scale model of Medirin East at the Sales Gallery

to address the need for homes for workers and families in the respective areas.

Besides facilities and amenities for a complete and sustainable development, Meridin East will provide residents with a lush green environment and a wide selection of activities to encourage

exercise and healthy living.

The Group plans to plant several thousand native trees around the townships Mulberry lake to preserve and enhance the natural flora and fauna. The township also has 110 acres allocated to develop various activities for its residents to exercise. - by Harish Mustak TI

Mah Sing’s properties are know for quality

Solution: Cultivating Savings Habits

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your income every month and even better if you can save between 15% to 20% because this will translate into more money for your future.

Guide on cultivating a saving habit Always pay yourself first Save at least 10% of your income and make your savings automatic through a salary deduction scheme or other similar arrangements.

Motivate yourself with a financial goal Set meaningful and significant goals to motivate yourself to save; be it short, medium or long term goals.

A

Make savings a challenge After having saved the first 10% of your income, gradually challenge yourself to save a little more. budget helps you develop a saving habit. Without a saving plan, it will be harder to achieve your financial goals such as buying a

house or car, pursuing further education or even building a retirement fund.

It is advisable that you save at least 10% of

Windfalls Every time you get an extraordinary income – such as a bonus or cash gift – put part of it into your savings account Immediately.

If you get a pay rise, keep to your current standard of living and put the additional money towards your savings.

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