The Iskandarian E-Paper November 2019

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The Iskandarian ISSUE 87 | NOV 2019

ISSUE 87 | NOV 2019 | FREE COPY

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The 6th Iskandar Malaysia Social Hero Awards (IMSHA 2019) gala banquet was held at Pulai Springs Resort’s Dewan Kenchanapuri on 17th of October 2019. The event was graced by His Highness Tunku Idris Iskandar Al-Haj Ibni Sultan Ibrahim, Tunku Temenggong Johor.

The IMSHA is an annual community-led initiative driven by The Iskandarian publication and Iskandar Regional Development Authority (IRDA). Its aim is to spot, recognise, and support the good work done by the community’s unsung social heroes. Now in its 6th year, IMSHA is the region’s premier recognition award for individuals and organisations engaging in community service.

A total of 20 award winners were acknowledged in 11 categories - ten for individuals, nine for CSO/NGOs and one company in the CSR category.

The 11 categories of the much-coveted awards are (applicable to individual or

organisational nomination) Animal & Wildlife Protection, Disaster Relief, Public Safety, Education Advancement, Environmental Preservation/Protection, Health Services, Human Empowerment, Poverty & Hunger Relief, Corporate Social Responsibility, Social Innovator, and Arts, Culture & Heritage.

This year, the bar had been raised even higher as the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) were included as part of the scoring criteria.

Earlier this year, IMSHA teamed up with the United Nations Country Team Malaysia to align the awards to the UN’s global goals and the 2030 Agenda. IMSHA is now recognised as a “Good Practice SDG Award Provider” by the United Nations Country Team Malaysia.

“IMSHA aims to recognise Civil Society Organisations (CSO), Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs), Faith-Based Organisations (FBO), Corporations and

Individuals for the exemplary work they do in serving the needs of our community.

Through the awards, we hope to shine the spotlight on the value of volunteerism, and the need for all to share the responsibility of working towards a more inclusive, compassionate and effective society,” said IMSHA Chairman Thanam VisvanathanSuresh.

The award recipients were drawn from among the 301 nominations received from the public this year. The nominees were assessed against a Social Impact Rating System, which in turn was monitored by SIRIM. This year, an additional layer of complexity was added to the judging, whereby the contribution of the nominees also had to fulfil either one of the seventeen SDGs as part of the scoring. The shortlisted candidates were presented to a panel of seven judges known as the Leadership Council, who then selected the

final winners.

“Our comprehensive scoring system, which selectively measures performance across a range of indicators, ensures that the chosen winners are truly deserving. It cannot be overemphasised that the IMSHA is an award that cannot be bought,” added Thanam.

IMSHA 2019 was sponsored by Visionary Sponsors Kumpulan Prasarana Rakyat Johor (KPRJ) and Maslee Express; Advocate Sponsors AME Development Sdn Bhd; and Builder Sponsors Iskandar Investment Berhad and The Pasar; with Pulai Springs Resort as the official venue.

Nominations are open for the 7th Iskandar Malaysia Social Hero Awards 2020. Members of the public may submit nominations through The Iskandarian’s website, www.theiskandarian.com. Further information on IMSHA can also be found on www.facebook.com/ socialheroawards

KDN : PP19356/08/2018(034949) | Singapore MICA : MCI (P) 109/12/2018

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

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THE ISKANDARIAN

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The Growing Need for TVET in Johor The Johor Human Capital Strategic (SMI) Unit is pushing for more technical and vocational training and education in the hopes of catching up with IR4.0

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“In The Arms Of One Who Cares”

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n the effort to ready the nation for IR4.0, the government has asked to branch out into different fields of study than the traditional science stream education and recognition that the previous generation has strived to achieve.

Haji Aminolhuda Haji Hassan, Chairman of Education, Human Resource, Science and Technology committee mentioned that the shift of focus does not mean that the science stream is no longer relevant, but the inclusion of TVET (technical

and vocational education and training) will boost the nation’s ability to evolve and adapt to the impending fourth wave of the industrial revolution.

He expressed his support at the closing ceremony of the TVET Johor Tour 2019 at the Maktab Sultan Abu Bakar in Johor Bahru along with many other educationists as well as students and teachers from the technical and vocational stream.

General Manager of SMI, Saifuddin Abdul Rahim states that the objective of the programme (TVET Tour

2019) was to encourage and instil awareness among the society about the importance of skills development for each individual in shaping competitive advantages and high ambitions.

“It is puzzling how there are some who still view TVET as second class.

The fact is in developed countries, technical and vocational education is set at a higher standard in the public eye,” said Saifuddin.

At the same time, Saifuddin believes that with the establishment of the TVET Coordinating

Iskandar Malaysia Elated Over the Launch of Malaysia Smart City Framework

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skandar Malaysia is elated over the launch of Malaysia Smart City Framework by Tun Dr Mahathir bin Mohamad, the Prime Minister of Malaysia at the Cities 4.0 Conference.

The creation of this nationallevel framework is another big step towards realising the smart nation agenda.

“7 years ago, Iskandar Malaysia took the first, bold step towards becoming a smart city and launched its own smart city framework called ‘Smart City Iskandar Malaysia’ (SCIM).

Now, we are ecstatic to see the national-level Malaysia Smart City Framework becoming a reality and accelerating the nation’s aim to be a smart nation while helping to reinforce our established framework, “said Datuk Ismail Ibrahim, Chief Executive of Iskandar Regional Development Authority (IRDA).

Iskandar Malaysia is also a member of the Malaysia Smart City Alliance (MSCA) and the ASEAN Smart City Network.

Iskandar Malaysia’s smart city effort is also globally recognised as the region partners with the

Minister for Housing and Local Government being briefed on Iskandar Malaysia’s smart city agenda by Puan Maimunah Jaafar from IRDA

likes of the United Nations, UK’s Foreign & Commonwealth Office, Hewlett Packard and Society D ’A m a n a g e m e n t amongst others.

Iskandar Malaysia’ focuses on 6 dimensions being Smart Economy, Smart Environment, Smart Mobility, Smart Governance, Smart Living and Smart Mobility.

The 6 dimensions cover the economic, social and environmental spectrum from end- to-end, in line with the region’s development plan and vision to become a strong and sustainable metropolis of international standing.

Since the Smart City Iskandar Malaysia framework was endorsed, several projects have been completed such as the Iskandar Malaysia NonMotorised Transport, Iskandar Malaysia Healthcare Integrated Hub, State-driven wireless initiative in Iskandar Malaysia, Sungai Segget River Revitalising (with SCADA technology), Integrated Operations Centre (IoC) for Smart Services, SCIM Guidelines for Recognition Programme, Media and Game Innovation Centre of Excellence and EV Car & Charging Stations.

Moving for ward, the region’s smart city agenda will be kept busy with projects such as Iskandar Malaysia Urban Observatory (IMUO), Smart City Action Plan for Local Authorities in Iskandar Malaysia, Mobility Management System, Iskandar Malaysia Bus Rapid Transit and Global District Energy amongst others. - by The Iskandarian TI

Robotics showcase

Body by the Ministry of Education recently will enhance the credibility and attractiveness of the

industry this becoming more competitive and sought after. - by Harish Mustak TI

SUKMA XX Right on Track Menteri Besar Johor pays a visit to the venues of the Malaysia Sports 20th Edition (SUKMA XX) with the developers, Kumpulan Prasarana Rakyat Johor (KPRJ)

MB Johor, Datuk Dr Sahruddin Jamal, accompanied by State Secretary, State Finance Officer, and Mayor of Iskandar Puteri looking at the plans and progress for SUKMA XX venues

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enteri Besar Johor Datuk Dr Sahruddin Jamal expressed his satisfaction and confidence on the level and stage of development of SUKMA XX (Malaysia Sports 20th Edition) venues that will be happening in the state next year.

He was on a working visit to inspect and see for himself the progress of the work done by developers, Kumpulan Prasarana Rakyat Johor (KPRJ) and found that everything is on schedule, and possibly looking at early completion – as soon as February or April 2020.

“As of now, I am very pleased.

This means that there are no delayed projects. In fact, there are some ahead of schedule,” he said when

visiting Sportcity Mount Austin – one of the SUKMA XX venues.

Sportcity will be housing a track and field stadium, rugby stadium, as well as a shooting centre that is at 95% completion.

The two other venues, which are the Youth Hub in Iskandar Puteri and Arena Emas in Taman Impian Emas, are at 46% completion.

The Youth Hub will be home to a velodrome and a BMX track whereas the Arena Emas will have an archery complex, lawn bowl field, petanque arena, and a squash centre.

SUKMA XX will be happening from 11th to 19th July next year. - 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 Percetakan Osacar Sdn Bhd [No. 16, Jalan IDA 1a, Industrial Desa Aman, Taman Desa Aman, Kepong, 52200 Kuala Lumpur] 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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Johor’s Capeless Heroes

His Highness Tunku Idris congratulating Chong Siew Hua for her exemplary work with special needs children

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he Iskandar Malaysia Social Hero Awards (IMSHA) occurred on the 17th of October as a day of recognition to those who have selflessly gone above and beyond the line of duty to give back to the society. IMSHA was conceptualised 6 years ago as an annual communityled initiative driven by The Iskandarian and Iskandar Regional Development Authority (IRDA) to recognise and award the works of individuals and organisations that contribute for the good of society.

The gala banquet, held at Pulai Springs Resort was graced by His Highness Tunku Idris Iskandar Al-Haj Inbi Sultan Ibrahim, Tunku Temenggong Johor who personally congratulated and praised the 20 winners (ten individuals, nine CSO/NGOs and one company in the CSR category) spread amongst the 11 categories which comprises Animal & Wildlife Protection, Arts, Culture & Heritage, Corporate Social Responsibility, Disaster Relief, Education Advancement, Environmental Preservation/ Protection, Health Services, Human Empowerment, Public Safety, Poverty & Hunger Relief and Social

Innovator.

This year has seen a record high of 301 nominations from the public, 61 more than last year as the initiative gains traction and has also been elevated to be benchmarked against global practices due to teaming up with the United Nations Country Team Malaysia to align the awards to the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the UN 2030 Agenda.

IMSHA Chairman Thanam VisavanathanSuresh expressed her heartfelt gratitude in her opening address regarding the growth and elevation of IMSHA and that the spirit of the award ceremony is to “shine the spotlight on the value of volunteerism, and the need for all to share the responsibility of working towards a more inclusive, compassionate and effective society”.

The comprehensive s co r i n g s ys te m had another layer of complexity added this year where the contributions of the nominees had to fulfill either one of the seventeen SDGs as part of the scoring before they were shortlisted and presented to The Leadership Council - a panel of seven

judges comprising of past winners and exceptional members of the society who would then select a winner for each category.

All IMSHA winners are also provided free training in regards to further their organisation’s reach, social media presence and with the recent partnership with the United Nations, this year’s winners will also be given SDGs training to align themselves with the 17 goals of the SDGs. Coaching sessions will also be given to enhance resource sharing via data management by inputting data to the SDGs portal.

With this year ’s accomplishment, IMSHA hopes to further inspire others to take up social responsibility and to encourage individuals, organisations, associations and companies to innovate to address new and existing social challenges.

On a sad note, while the 6th IMSHA was being held, Suzie Yap, a person synonymous with the Johor Arts Festival, was fighting her final battle with cancer and exhaled her last breath.

For the past 15 years, Suzie was the Festival Director and along with her husband Yap Siong Cheng, who founded the Johor Society for the Performing Arts (JSPA), created Malaysia’s longestrunning Arts Festivals as a platform for the performing arts and fashion scene of Johor. Suzie will always be remembered for her grit and uncompromising attitude, and her determination and passion for promoting the arts and culture stands as a benchmark for others. - by Evan Lim TI

news

Only 0.8% People with Disabilities (PWD) Are Employed Full-time

Flex Malaysia makes employment for people with disabilities (PWD) as its inclusive effort

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n a bid to not exclude anyone in employment, Flex Malaysia has launched its People with Disabilities (PwD) Programme in Johor in conjunction with its recent hiring of 30 PwD employees for its operations in Flex Skudai and Flex Port of Tanjung Pelepas, Johor.

The launch was part of Flex’s PwD Awareness Week in Johor and with its new addition of the 30 employees, in total Flex has hired 150 PwD employees nationwide with 120 employees hired since October 2018.

According to Viswanathan Paramasivam, Deputy President of Operation in Flex, Johor, there are 487,000 PwD in Malaysia and only 3,782 of them are officially hired making the PwD’s with permanent jobs at only 0.8%.

Seeing the situation, Flex took the initiative to open their vacancies to PwDs and recruiting the hearing impaired since 2018 and has thus received the PwD-Friendly Employer recognition by the Human Resource Ministry, becoming the company with the largest PwD’s employees in Malaysia.

Attending and officiating the event is Zaini Yaacob, Director of Johor Department of Labour, making his remarks about Jobs Malaysia Centre that has been cooperating with Flex for the PwDs employment intake. The effort, he said, is part of government’s move in

making employment available for PwDs together with the cooperation of private sectors.

He also encourages more Johor companies to tweak their policies and employ PwDs in the future too. Zaini also added that Johor’s private sector has a collective of 57 employed PwDs as of 2019 and with the addition of the 30 Flex PwDs, it has now made it as 87 people in total now. It is still a very low number. Johor state since 2019 has also granted 8 PwD entrepreneurs with PwD Business Encouragement Aid Scheme (SBGPOKU) where the businesses would hire PwDs like them.

The hiring of PwDs through Flex is made possible through a partnership with the Johor Deaf Association where all of their 30 hired employees are hearing impaired. Yazid Bain, President of Johor Deaf Association in his speech has said that the employment through Flex has given hope to the hearing

impaired where he shared his personal story on the hardship of getting a job himself.

Ahmad Farid Zainal, 39, one of the 30 hired PwDs said, “Working environment in Flex is PwD-friendly where they have amenities that cater to the hearing impaired and made them feel safe at work”. Abd Rahman, 30, is working for the first time in his life at Flex in Production line and explained that the buddy system the company prepared for them helps a lot where one PwD is paired with one non-PwD employee at work.

Viswanathan said Flex has encouraged other employees to learn 5 sign language words per day by showing education video at their cafe every day. He also sees that it is possible to hire even more PwDs in the future while they are aiming to have at least 1% out of 4% PwDs in Malaysia hired under their wing by the year 2020. - by Norfy Shafeq TI

Yazid Bain, President of Johor Deaf Association giving his speech in sign language

One-Stop-Centre for the Youth

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he 15 acres Youth Hub, located in Hutan Bandar MBJB, is expected to officially open in Q1 of 2020 and is currently seeking entrepreneurs and strategic partners to be part of the excitement by operating or tapping upon its 23 mini-stores and various facilities and opportunities.

“The youth hub is billed as an affordable, one-stop-centre for the youth. This is the platform where youths can enjoy and develop themselves in areas such as sports, entrepreneurship, creative and arts, volunteerism and many more supported by the various offerings and facilities. It is one of the initiatives under Iskandar Malaysia’s

youth development strategy and is built based on feedback from the youth community,” said Datuk Ismail Ibrahim, Chief Executive of Iskandar Regional Development Authority (IRDA).

Datuk Ismail further explained that youth development is a key economic and social agenda in Iskandar Malaysia as they will become the future leaders and players in the region. Therefore, it is important that they are nurtured with the necessary skills and experiences to be able to support and flourish in tandem with the fast growth of Iskandar Malaysia and reap the benefits.

In preparation of its opening, the youth hub is seeking

entrepreneurs, especially by the youth, to come in and offer their products and services such as food & beverages, sports equipment and attire, as well as gadgets through the 23 mini-stores that the youth hub has completed.

For the strategic partners, the youth hub is looking for associations or corporations that would want to operate or sponsor its many facilities such as meeting room and pods, an entrepreneurship gallery, a mini theatre, a food court, various sports amenities such as wall climbing, jogging, mountain biking and skate plaza, a camping site and others. There will also be branding opportunities through outdoor and

ambient advertising.

Between 2016 and 2017, more than 15,000 youths participated in various programmes at the youth hub and reached to more than 50,000 youths through its digital platforms.

In the past, the youth hub has hosted various programmes such as the 1,000 pax ‘Jamboree Sukarelawan Darul Ta’zim’, an independent art market, a BBOY and parkour battle, youth retreat, the ‘29th N3ON Architectural Workshop’ and many more.

During a recent working visit to the Youth Hub, Exco Sheikh Umar Bagharib Ali, Johor State Youth, Sports, Entrepreneurship Development And Cooperatives

Committee chairman calls upon the youth of Johor to be more creative and innovative in grabbing opportunities in the creative industry which is growing rapidly around the world. He asserts that the state government will continue to work hard and find ways to ensure that this agenda will impact the youth in Johor through programmes and activities by the youth.

More information on HAB can be found at facebook.com/ johoryouthhub. For entrepreneurs and strategic partners who are keen to take up this opportunity, do contact Raja Taufik at taufikazad@ irda.com.my, Azman at m.azman@ irda.com.my or Lynn at gohwl@irda. com.my . - by Priya Manikam TI

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news Being Mindful of Mental Health

Speakers for the day Dr Peter Norrie, Prof Dr Philip George and Paul K Jambunathan

I "George & Dragon Cafe is a great venue for all your Festive Season celebrations like Christmas and New Year.”

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n conjunction with World Mental Health Day and World Suicide Prevention Day, Monash University Malaysia (Monash) and the Jeffrey Cheah School of Medicine & Health Sciences hosted a seminar followed by workshops to provide a platform for everyone in the Mental Health Community to learn new skills and network with their peers in the same field.

“We need to improve on our emotional vocabulary,” quipped Paul K Jambunathan, Senior Lecturer of Psychology in Monash as he went through the basis of learning to love ourselves. Paul, who also conducts the afternoon workshop “Applied Positive Psychology” explained that by expanding our emotional vocabulary can we express what it is that ails us to the people that wants to help us. He explained that family comes down to 3 interrelating parts that

are family structure, family function and family life cycle but with break-neck speed of technological progress, some people unhealthily view social media as their family.

“Voice out: The Art of Healing” occurred at Monash’s Clinical School campus in Johor Bahru and featured guest speakers Prof Dr Philip George from The Mind Faculty and Dr Peter Norrie from Australia to touch upon the facts of whether Malaysia and other Asian countries were doing enough in regards to allocating funding and personnel to the mental health field while drawing parallels to the western world that has seen an increase in the concern and welfare of citizens outside of physical ailments. With the World Health Organisation (WHO) officially recognising burnout as a contributing factor to deteriorating mental health and the rising rate of suicides in Malaysia, the speaker duo also highlighted the importance of socio-political factors that affect diagnosing or treating mental health issues.

Apart from the seminars, there were several other workshops held such as “The Art of Joyful Clowning” - a class organised by the Johor Bahru Happy & Joyous club and led by the

ever happy Lee Jean who is a pharmacist by profession seeking to infect others with their energy and passion regarding spreading joy and happiness with activities such as laughter yoga and clowning. This is an approach adopted from American physician Patch Adams to bring humour and comfort to those who need it that they were privileged to have volunteered with.

Another popular workshop held was “Personalising yourself to Interpersonal Psychotherapy (IPT)” led by Dr Cindy Niap and Dr Albert Lee where they outlined the differences between mental health issues and psychiatric illness along with the 3 main approaches to treat them namely, with pharmacology, physical therapies such as electric current therapy and non-pharmacological methods such as psychotherapy which the course covered. Amongst the attendees were counsellors, college lecturers, drug rehab workers, students and a kindergarten teacher. In our lives that are swamped by financial and social obligations, don’t dismiss the notion of taking care of the mental health of yourself and the people around you.

- by Evan Lim TI

Johor State Forks Out Over RM11mil under the Free Water Supply Scheme for 2019

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immy Puah Wee Tse Johor International Trade, Investment and Utility Committee chairman, said the total expenditure for the state under the Free Water Supply Scheme was RM5,281,940 from September until December 2018 and RM11,867,539 from January to September 2019.

“Following up to July 2019’s invoice, the Johor State Government has spent up to RM9,251,435,” said Puah.

He added that the latest recipient of the free water supply scheme from all over Johor in 2018 is around 167,782 and for the year 2019, the recipients increased to 162,304.

The total amount of recipients include those living in Tanjung Piai, Pekan Nenas and Kukup where around 3,137 people have benefited from the scheme out of 9,925 people.

“The main objective of the free water supply is to lower the cost of living of the B40 group (bottom 40% of households with

monthly income of RM3,900 and below),” “At the same time, it would cultivate the culture of paying for water supply and raising the awareness of how important water supply is in our daily lives and to be mindful in using such natural resources,” he added.

The free water scheme was first launched back in September 2018 and jointly cooperated with SAJ (Syarikat Air Johor) while also promoting the ‘Save Water’ campaign.

Recipients of the free water supply scheme must be within the target group of B40 category and has an account with Ranhill SAJ where they would get free water supplied to them automatically. Another criterion is for the ones without Ranhill SAJ account, with the reason that the candidates are living in a rented space or staying in a premise like dormitory. They could appeal to get the free water supply by obtaining an application form at Ranhil SAJ office. - by Norfy Shafeq TI

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Budget 2020: Iskandar Malaysia’s Perspective

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he 2020 Budget a n n o u n c e d by Finance Minister Lim Guan Eng seems to be covering most aspects including an announcement of RM70million allocation for the Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC) to set up 14 one-stop digital development centres in all states, including a new digital library in Johor.

Under the digitisation policy, RM50 million will be allocated to pilot a 5G ecosystem.

RM85 million has been tabled for the purpose of overcoming Johor’s congestion issue along the Johor Causeway and Second Link. The government also indicated that it intends to

proceed with the RTS line although not much details were provided. However, according to Transport Minister Anthony Loke, Malaysia will announce its position on the RTS Line by 31st October 2019, in keeping with the timeline agreed upon with Singapore.

The bilateral agreement to build the project was inked on 18th January last year after discussions between Malaysia’s Land Public Transport Commission (now Agency) and Singapore’s Land Transport Authority.

The RTS Link once complete, will be able to carry 10,000 passengers per hour per direction, translating to an additional capacity of 60,000 users crossing the Causeway during peak hours.

Call for Clean Up at Pulau Pemanggil, Mersing

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n a bid to save the environment and marine life, concerned Iskandar Investment Berhad (IIB) citizens tackled the rubbish that were left around Pulau Pemanggil in Mersing, Johor as a part of its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) programme called ‘Saving Paradise: International Coastal Cleanup’.

Around 55 volunteers participated in the beach clean-up made up of IIB’s partners and employees. They collected recyclable rubbish, weighed it and transported to Mersing town for recycling purposes. Volunteers also took a dive into the beach to ensure the cleaning conducted was thorough. IIB’s Chief

Operating Officer, Datuk Akmal Ahmad, led the team of divers that collected ‘ghost hunt’ or abandoned, thrown away fishing nets made of plastics that has extremely high potential to endanger the lives and ecosystem of marine creatures around the island. They were mostly found caught at coral reefs, amounting to 90kg out of the total 573kg of rubbish that were collected from all three days!

The team also cast a net over the ocean to pick up all kinds of rubbish that might endanger the marine life around the island and some non-recyclable wastes were sent for proper disposition. - by Norfy Shafeq TI

“ Th e e co n o m i c situation and technology trends around the world are moving at a rapid and spontaneous pace. Catching up with these changes will require a lot of effort from everyone and all corners of Malaysia. We are glad to see that the 2020 Budget is more mature and holistic, acknowledging the equal importance on both physical and rakyat’s development to adapt to these changes and strengthen the progress of the nation,” said Datuk Ismail Ibrahim, Chief Executive of Iskandar Regional Development Authority (IRDA).

The Finance Minister also announced that RM42 million will be allocated for the construction of

the Sungai Segget river treatment centre as well as RM30 million in allocation to enhance the state Department of Environment (DoE) and Chemistry Department.

RM95 million has also been allocated for improving the infrastructure and medical facilities such as in the Pontian Hospital.

“The RM95 million to improve infrastructure and medical facilities such as in the Pontian Hospital, will improve services provided for the people in the Pontian area,” said Johor Menteri Besar Datuk Dr Sahruddin Jamal who described the Budget 2020 as an inclusive budget which showed that the federal government was not only concerned about

From cover sustainable development but also about closing the gap with the state towards the objective of the Vision of Shared Prosperity 20212030.

The Ministry of Education (MOE) also continues to receive the largest allocation of RM64.1 billion in the 2020 Budget compared to RM60.2 billion in 2019.

Exco Lai Cai Tung, Tourism, Women Family, and Community Development chairman also shared that her department is pleased that more allocation is given towards women development and under the initiative #WanitaKerja ( Women@Work), 33000 jobs will be created for women between 30 – 50

years who have stopped working for a year and more, and for those returning back to workforce will be given an incentive pay of RM500 a month for two (2) years. RM30 million will also be set aside to build childcare centres in hospitals and schools to encourage women to return to work.

As a whole, Budget 2020 has outlined a wide range of initiatives, action plans, fiscal measures and incentives seeking to address the challenges that Malaysia is facing, which include setting the new growth direction, intensifying growth momentum, addressing high cost of living and increasing the income level of the rakyat. - by Edey Suresh & Priya Manikam TI

Thinking like a Journalist is Practical for Our Daily Lives

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ometimes, we spend o u r d ays b e i n g mindless of what goes on around us.

Our conscious level is basic at the five senses of what we see, hear, smell, touch, and taste, but our problem-solving and thinking skills are often untapped in our daily lives. We receive information as it is and respond to what we hear with our emotions without thinking or questioning the situation.

A journalist typically thinks in questions. The 5W and 1H - who, what, when, where, why, and how are the skeletons of every story the journalist seeks to find answers for. Holding by the principles of Journalism where Fairness and Impartiality is one, he or she also comfortably asks the question “What if I’m wrong?” and goes out to find all sides of the story.

I had the honour of sharing my views on the ethics of being a citizen journalist in

this age of social media. A citizen journalist refers to someone who has shared information or news online. Internet providers racing to offer faster internet speeds at affordable prices also means the need for us to slow down on what we want to share with the world. We now can upload and download information at lightning speed - but how are we sure what we delivered or received were facts?

I felt that this was the basic of being an average internet user: to think about what you see, watch, or read.

Thinking is a habit. It allows us to catch the plethora of things that come at us and categorise them into questions, thoughts and thinking. Having citizens who think beyond the scopes of work and school is absolutely necessary. It begins with how we see our daily lives.

Other speakers at the course were my colleagues Peggy Loh, Balbeer S Jessy,

Vishnu Dev, and hosted by Harish Mustak. Peggy is no stranger to the Johor community having written two books titled My Johor Stories.

She stressed the Peggy Loh, author of My Johor Stories, importance of putting shared pictures of her past. She grew the first foot forward in up humbly, but her father had always whatever endeavour encouraged her to write to editors in that “Rome was not newspapers. Little did she know she built in a day”. Balbeer, would be writing as a career! the Head of Legal from IRDA, shed truths about sharing programme went smoothly.

The Basic Journalism online, and the consequences one might have from a legal Course series, which ran in June, perspective; even if we think August, and October, has come we’re “just sharing”. Vishnu, to an end for this year. On behalf founder of photo company Reel of my fellow speakers, I thank Studios showed us angles and the participants for joining us rules of photography to apply and we hope that one way or when we want to take a picture. another, what we shared are It is ethical to make sure we applicable in your daily lives.

Note: Author writes don’t make people look bad in pictures we want to post online. for The Iskandarian and has Harish wit-fully summarised one published book titled “A each speaker’s presentation Nobody’s Observations”. - by with his views and ensured the Salamahafifi TI

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Regency and Mahkota Celebrate 10th And 25th Anniversary with Record Breaking Mass CPR Event

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A Sea of Green for World Cerebral Palsy Day

Hands to Heart- Save a life with CPR 2019 sees biggest turnout in Malaysia Pa r t i c i p a n t s from all walks of life pumped r hyt hmica lly to the beat of “Staying Alive”, guided by the respective specialists and volunteers recruited as Official launch of Hands to Heart 2019 ambassadors egency Specialist to teach the public.

Officiating the Hospital (RSH) and its sister hospital event was assemblywoman Mahkota Medical for Johor Jaya and Johor Centre (MMC) successfully Women and Tourism received the Malaysia Book Development Committee of Records for the largest chairman, Liow Cai Tung at participation in mass CPR Padang Dataran MPPG Pasir with more than 10,000 Gudang, Johor.

“I would like to participants.

The Hands to Heart- congratulate Regenc y Save a life with CPR 2019 Specialist Hospital for was jointly organised by RSH organising this event to and MMC in conjunction help spread awareness and with their anniversaries understanding the risk of saw massive waves of heart attacks and how it eager participants perform can lead to sudden cardiac hands-only CPR en masse. arrest, and to teach and

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guide the public on how to perform hands-only CPR in emergencies,” said Liow in her speech.

Hands- only CPR entails methodically applying chest compressions on someone who has just collapsed with no pulse.

When the heart stops, the lack of oxygenated blood can cause damage to the brain within minutes. CPR stimulates and mimics the action of the heart pumping continuously and this can help ensure oxygenated blood flow to vital organs especially to the brain.

Dr Patrick Cheah said that for every minute of delay in administering CPR, a cardiac arrest victim’s chances of survival falls by 7-10%. “Chances of survival are zero if there is no action taken after 12 minutes,” said Dr. Cheah who was the lead for CPR learning in Johor. by Moazan Emran TI

Director Mdm. Sukhjit Kaur sharing a laugh with His Highness Tunku Idris at the oral care booth

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erebral Palsy (CP) is a physical disability caused by damage in the brain that affects movement posture and is the most common physical disability in childhood affecting an average of one in every 700 people.

The Persatuan Cerebral Palsy Johor had recently welcomed members of the public, students, parents, caregivers and educators to partake in the World CP Day event on the 6th of October to raise public recognition, support, understanding and education for the 17 million people living with CP and the 350 million caregivers who support them globally. His Highness Tunku Idris Iskandar Ismail ibni Sultan Ibrahim Ismail graced the event.

This year, the two main themes were Move As One, encouraging everyone to do something active at 1pm with friends

and family to show the globe what the community is capable of and #GoGreen4CP which was inspired by Nicole Luongo who had managed to get dozens of landmarks in the US on board to redecorate their premises green to show solidarity for CP. In a sea of green, the booths that were set up relayed information on CP and dental health to the public, showcasing crafts made by those living with CP, and also medical products such as anti-bedsores beds, specialty wheelchairs and devices for caregivers to better provide support.

Students from the Kolej Sains Kesihatan Bersekutu were also invited and toured the premises which were provided by the state government in 1970 at Jalan Dato Mentari. The centre was established in 1967 with the initiative and effort of Dr. Samuel Abraham, a paediatric medical consultant and was named the Persatuan Kanak-Kanak Spastic Johor (PKKSJ) before being renamed in 2014 and aims to provide premiere services to children and young adults with CP. The grass root effort alone is not enough for social stigma to change and for there to be meaningful progress as a society to be more inclusive of those living with CP. The fact is that funding is dwindling and as an NGO, it is not easy to get ahold of. For those willing to contribute to the welfare of those affected with CP and their caregivers, donations are always welcome. - by Evan Lim TI

Interact Club Joint Leadership Training Seminar

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Group photo with fellow participants during the leadership training seminar

otary Club of Johor Bahru (RCJB) had recently conducted a leadership training seminar for interactors from five interact clubs namely from SMK Sultan Ismail (SSI), SMK Infant Jesus Convent, SMK (P) Sultan Ibrahim (SIGS), SMK Dato Ja’afar and SMK Perling. The event was held at SMK (P) Sultan Ibrahim’s Main Hall.

The leadership seminar was

Celebrating 15 Years of Pink Heroes

Dance session with BCSG

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he Breast Cancer Suppor t Group of Johor Bahru (BCSGJB) recently celebrated their 15th year anniversary. In conjunction with the celebration, BCSGJB organised a Pink Heroes Fun Walk to show suppor t and promote awareness among the public in regards to breast cancer.

Plenty of

p ro gra m m e s we re planned out for the morning that included Zumba, Silly Walk with the Johor Bahru Happy and Joyous Club, Doodle Competition, various dances, and a Peranakan Cooking Demonstration.

There were also wellness activities such as fitness exercises and an exhibition on breast cancer and healthy lifestyles, free health check consultation by a dietitian and a doctor, and registration for mammogram and PAP smear by the Tunku Laksamana Cancer Foundation.

The Johor Bahru Member of Parliament, Akmal Nasir also attended

the pink event to show his support for breast cancer awareness.

For the children or young at heart, there was also face painting and hair tinseling done by Sasha and Sofia Cole.

Speaking to Doris Boo, past president and a strong supporter of the BCSGJB, she mentioned, “ We are pink heroes, whether a patient, a survivor or members of BCSG, we are a family and we must support one another.”

The BCSGJB is located at Taman Muhibbah Kebun Teh and the public are welcomed to show their support and contribute to the pink hero family. - by Harish Mustak TI

conducted by fellow Rotarians, who are professionals in their respectively fields. The seminar was designed to empower the incoming board of directors from the 5 interact clubs, age 14 to 17, and equip them to take up leadership positions in the coming year 2020.

The four interact clubs from SSI, SMK Infant Jesus Convent, SIGS and SMK Dato Ja’afar have also received

the prestigious Interact Citation award from Rotary International for their outstanding contributions to the community and club services in 2019.

RCJB Youth Service Director, Rotarian Gan Chin Soon is confident that in the coming year, these interact clubs sponsored by RCJB will scale to greater heights and continue to develop young leaders of the future.

- by The Iskandarian TI

Chillax Market Integrating EduCity Iskandar Community Now Opens

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duCity Iskandar Malaysia has launched a weekly middle of week market namely Chillax Market in an effort to provide for students and community alike in the area.

Around 5,000 people inclusive of students from 9 reputable education partners — University of Southampton M a l ays i a , Multimedia University, University of Reading Malaysia, Newcastle University Medicine Malaysia, Netherlands Maritime Institute of Technology, Management Development Institute of Singapore, Raffles University, Marlborough College Malaysia and Raffles American School, staff members, Perbadanan Usahawan Johor Sdn

Bhd (PUJB), X Johore Motorsport Scene and local communities had attended the inauguration.

Chillax Market is a collaboration with PUJB to promote entrepreneurship and inculcate an entrepreneurial spirit among students.

Improving social skills are vital and can open new doors to new friendships and increase chances of employability. The market saw participation of 44 small and medium enterprises (SME) in Johor (vendors & food trucks), some of which are operated and owned PUJB members.

Managing Director of EduCity Iskandar Malaysia, Wan Ahmad Saifuddin Wan Ahmad Radzi said, that he hopes students, staff, enterprises

and local communities gained valuable insights into entrepreneurship by participating in the stalls. He also said we should keep up the spirit as Chillax is open to public every Wednesday from 3pm onwards.

Chillax Market was launched by Exco Sheikh Umar Bagharib Ali, State Youth, Sports, Entrepreneurship Development and Cooperatives Committee chairman and he stated that it was an excellent initiative

by Educity Iskandar Malaysia as an Education Hub in Johor in line with the emergence of entrepreneurship in Malaysia as well as a good platform to engage with the students from 9 different universities and colleges. - by Norfy Shafeq TI

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Tackling Obesity One Meal at a Time

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he battle of the bulge starts young in Ayam Brand’s community care campaign for 2019 - Get Healthy Malaysia, Start Now. The campaign introduces a simple to memorise yet effective way of portioning food to be balanced and stay nutritious. The slogan ‘Suku-Suku Separuh’ (3S plate) indicates a meal should have one quarter of protein, one quarter of carbohydrates and half of fruit and vegetables to make up a balanced diet.

Obesity in Malaysia, according to the Economist Intelligence Unit’s Tackling Obesity in ASEAN Report is the highest in South East Asia at 13.3% of the adult population. With children

aged between 6 months and 12 years old taking the top three spot with 11.5% being obese, it’s an alarming figure to say the least.

The 8th of October marked Ayam Brand’s Johor leg of the nationwide campaign. Held at JWC’s the Factory, 32 children from 8 schools, 4 of which are charity homes joined in on the activities to learn more about the 3S plate.

The children were required to pick out ingredients from the shelf and assemble a meal based on recipes vetted by a nutritionist before being tasted by judges.

The attendees were also tested on their knowledge learned that day via a maze and mathematical challenges to ensure the children were engaged and will remember

what they have learned.

When approached about why this campaign was started, Nathan Deverre, the Marketing Manager for Ayam Brand said that their company, “Is extremely concerned regarding the obesity epidemic in the country and set out to assist, starting with children as they are the ones who are most teachable and reachable and equipping them with the knowledge and skills to choose and prepare more nutritious meals and spreading the word to their friends and family”.

The 4 charity homes were also given 2 months’ supply of Ayam Brand products equivalent to about 18,000 healthy meals for a total of 100 residents at the

homes. This is in line with Ayam programme ended with the Brand’s history of supporting distribution of certificates and NGOs and giving back to the prizes to the children who community whereby in the past participated in the 3S Plate 12 years, they have donated 1.76 campaign and saw students million healthy meals to more bringing home goodie bags than 20,000 people from 482 filled with various Ayam Brand charity homes. They have also products. - by Evan Lim TI expanded their charity effor ts online by offering products at 15% off retail price to be delivered and contributed to a charity of your choice.

Interested parties can find out more about their e-charity at https:// www.ayambrand.com.

Attendees enthusiastically showing their my/e-charity.html. awards and prizes The outreach

Beyond the Call of Duty 4th Johor Malaysian Red Crescent (MRC) brings joy to the underprivileged

MRC’s Royal Patron HM the Permaisuri of Johor and HH The Tunku Panglima of Johor handing out Deepavali goodies

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alaysian Red Crescent (MRC) National Committee for Community Services held their annual Deepavali celebration for over 250 underprivileged families and children.

In the 14th year

of the festive celebration organised by MRC, invited families were treated to a delectable lunch spread of local food at Holiday Villa Hotel which also featured a ‘putu mayam’ seller who literally rode his motorcycle to the 9th floor of the hotel to the ballroom where the

function was held.

MRC’s Royal Patron HM the Permaisuri of Johor, Raja Zarith Sofiah Binti Almarhum Sultan Idris Shah graced the festivities accompanied by HH Tunku Panglima of Johor, Tunku Abdul Rahman Al-Haj Ibni Sultan Ibrahim.

Her Majesty took time to interact and give away money packets, goodie bags and groceries to the needy families and children. Various corporate organisations and individuals who gave contributions in aid of the MRC or their initiatives were given certificates of appreciation by Her Majesty.

The celebrations were kept lively with an array of traditional and dance performances. - by Edey Suresh TI

International Archery Tournament 2019

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he 4th Johor international Archery Tournament held recently at the Seri Gelam Field at Merdeka Square in Johor Bahru came to its conclusion with a tense shootout between the participating teams.

“We would first like to thank the mayor who managed to provide us with a space for the tournament as well as Tourism Johor.

This time around we had a bigger competition pool.

We had 338 participants from Singapore, Philippines, United States, Australia, Indonesia and of course Malaysia. This is the most competitors we’ve ever had for a tournament,” said Tuan Haji Mohd Shukri, President

of the Archery Association of Johor. “ T h e objective of the tournament was to help promote Johor, with the coming of Visit Johor 2020 next year.

This was also the first time for many of them to visit Johor.

The s e c o n d Team’s final for Recurve Bow objective was to prepare for SUKMA. were representatives for Many of these participants SEA games, it was a good are part of SUKMA teams opportunity for our players of their respective states to test themselves. Our goal including a team from for SUKMA is at least 2 Gold Johor. As some of the medals,” he added. - by competitors from Singapore Moazan Emran TI

Senai Airport Aero Camp 2019 Inspires Aspiring Aviators International Airport.

Officially launched by Ahli Dewan Undangan Negeri (ADUN) Senai, Tee Boon Tsong, the one-day programme was organised by Senai Airport Terminal Services Sdn Bhd (Senai International Airport) and Kelab A young enthusiast having a go inside the Remaja Udara cockpit Malaysia (KRUM) 10 students from 16 in collaboration with Jabatan schools around Johor were Pendidikan Negeri Johor, Universiti enthused to participate Tun Hussein Onn Malaysia’s Asia in the first ever aviation Aeronautical Training Academy related education program - Senai (AATA) and Elite Flying Club.

The camp was developed Airport Aero Camp 2019 at Senai

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to instill awareness on the career opportunity available above and below-the-wing in the aerospace industry, calling the young generation to pursue their career dreams. The programme was also designed to expose students on the diversity of professions in aviation such as airport operations, ground handling services, aviation safety and security, maintenance and engineering, business development and many more.

During the camp, the students whom age ranging from 12 to 17 years old were having an interactive career sharing session with Senai International Airport and AATA before they were taken for an educational airport

tour to learn about its function and operations. The students were also given the opportunity to experience first-hand flying using the flight simulator in the AATA facility and had a closedup interaction with pilots and aircrafts.

“The aviation business is constantly growing with more demand for air travel forecasted in the future meaning that there shall be more job opportunities to be filled by the locals. With this, we want to instill the interest and prepare our young generation with the knowledge so that they can start paving out their career path from an early age,” said Md Derick Basir, the CEO

of Senai Airport Terminal Services Sdn Bhd, a Member of MMC Group during the launching.

Mohd Azam bin Shuib, the principal of Sekolah Menengah Kebangsaan Bukit Batu, Sedenak commented, “Generally when we speak about career in aviation, the first thing that comes into the students’ mind is either to become a pilot or cabin crew.

This programme has changed that common perception with extensive explanation given on the broad range of opportunities available not only by airlines but also at the airport for different education background level which is really an eye-opener for our students.” - by The Iskandarian TI

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MO N T H LY DR I L L Director

e Exclusiv w Intervie Coming from the Hotel industry, Clinton Lovell first started his career as a Guest Service officer at the Park Hyatt in Sydney, Australia in 1995 and rose through the ranks in the Oceania continent to a managerial position in 1997 as a Duty Manager at the Rydges Carlton, Melbourne. His first gig as a General Manager of a hotel began in 2001 at the Regus Business Centre in Perth. For almost 15 years, he was then based in Thailand as the lord of the manor in some of the most prestigious brands in the market such as Sofitel and Novotel in Bangkok, Pullman in Pattaya, and Anantara in Seminyak, Bali, Indonesia. With more than 20 years of experience in the hospitality industry, Clinton landed his dream job with the Hard Rock International brand at the Hard Rock Hotel Desaru Coast in Johor, Malaysia.

Clinton Lovell

G ener a l Manager Hard Ro c k Hote l D e s ar u C o a st loved and embraced by many Malaysians and international guests travelling to Malaysia. I believe our brand and services amplify these guests’ feelings – free spirited, fun, a little rebellious but very kind and genuine. We wish to continue spreading this spirit and hospitality through our hotels in Penang and Desaru Coast, and hopefully more to come.

How is Hard Rock Hotel Desaru Coast different from the others?

Tell us more about the Hard Rock Hotel brand and what are its unique selling points?

Music is our differentiator. Hard Rock is musicinspired brand. Since the first Hard Rock Café opened in London 1971, we are tightly connected to the music and entertainment industry, and we take part in forming the pop culture with these musicians and artists.

Our services and amenities are all designed to amplify our love for music. Many travellers may have challenges remembering which hotel they stayed in their last trip, but you can hardly forget a Hard Rock Hotel if you stayed in one.

Among the facilities distinct to the Hard Rock Hotel brand, which one is your favourite and in your opinion, the most unique to the Hard Rock brand?

I would say it has to be the background music, memorabilia and of course the Sound of Your Stay programme where you can inform us in advance of your favourite music genre and check in to your room to it, or pick your favourite guitar off the 20 available from the guitar menu to jam in your room with headphones provided. Of course there are

other music-inspired services and facilities such as Rhythm and Motion treatment at the Rock Spa, Hard Rock Roxity Kids Club for the young travellers and the underwater sound system in our swimming pool!

How do you think the Hard Rock brand can contribute or make a difference to Malaysia’s tourism industry?

We just had our Grand Opening of the Hard Rock Hotel Desaru Coast with star-studded artistes performing. The destination itself is a visionary development, and with our presence, we can infuse the vibe and spirit of Hard Rock to this world-class resort.

Malaysia is a very unique country because it bridges many cultures including Malay, Chinese, Indian and others. The cultural diversity and harmony is phenomenal, and that is what Hard Rock brand stands for. Two of our four mottos are about inclusiveness – All Is One, and Love All Serve All. Hard Rock brand is globally recognised, so when we open a new Hotel or a Café, it often brings international awareness and attention to the destination.

Since the opening of Hard Rock Hotel Penang 10 years ago, the brand has been

Hard Rock Hotel Desaru Coast features all of the Hard Rock Hotel amenities, and many firsts for the hotel brand in Asia, such as introducing the Elephant and the Butterfly restaurant, which is a Mexican contemporary pool side bar and grill, and Constant Grind, that is a casual coffee shop during the day, and a good spot to chill in the evening. These new dining concepts are actualised at Desaru Coast, and they have been tested and loved by our guests.

In addition to the dining options, Hard Rock Hotel Desaru Coast is also exceptionally suitable for family travels. The destination has many leisure establishments such as the Desaru Coast Adventure Waterpark that is connected to us, and the world-class golf course at Els Club. In the hotel, we have an amazing Hard Rock Roxity Kids Club that provides daily fun activities for the children.

The Roxstars Toys and Sweets Shop is a perfect place to spoil your kids, too. The children really love it here and are disappointed when they have to go home.

What are some of the CSR activities conducted by Hard Rock Hotels in Malaysia?

Philanthropy is our soul. Our brand was founded in 1971 with four mottos – All Is One, Love All Serve All, Take Time To Be Kind, and Save The Planet. This forms the culture of our company.

In October, we celebrated the 20th Anniversary of Pinktober, and Hard Rock Hotel Desaru Coast, along with many of our hotels and cafes joined in this full month event.

We curated specially designed pink room package, food and drinks contributed to the Breast Cancer Support Group in Johor Bahru.

In the Asian music industry, who are some of the talents/artistes or musicians you like or are familiar with?

I have to say that I am impressed by Yuna when I met her and she is now an international star. Other than her, I know some of the local legends such as Dato’ Khadijah Ibrahim, Dato’ Ramli Sarip, and most recently, I was privileged to meet with Amy Search.

What do you do in your free time?

Well, when you are working in the hotel industry, you don’t really get a lot of free time, but when I do have some time, I’d spend it with my family and kids. TI

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PEGGY LOH

MY JOHOR STORIES Our resident writer, Peggy Loh, actively writes in her blog www.peggyloh.com about matters that are close to her heart.

She can be reached at write2peggyloh@gmail.com

A Johor Malay Heritage Experience

Guests enjoying a hands-on experience in Batik painting

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lessed with a wealth of culture and heritage, Johor is gearing up to welcome more visitors in the Visit Johor 2020 campaign and share with them a glimpse of Malay heritage.

Set within the Johor Heritage Foundation – Yayasan Warisan Johor – the One-Stop Malay Heritage Centre welcomes visitors to enjoy and experience a touch of Malay heritage in a conducted tour that involves hands-on activities like batik painting and traditional games, and which ends with light refreshments.

The Malay Heritage Centre is sprawled across a hillock dotted with modern buildings, Rumah Limas Johor or wooden Malay houses designed in traditional architecture unique to Johor, as well as a landmark mansion which houses the Galleri Tenun, a gallery dedicated to preserving the art of songket-weaving.

This mansion, which is more than 100 years old, is in fact an old palace once named Istana Tunku Fatimah, the former residence of younger sister of Sultan Ibrahim, the Johor Sultan from 1895 to 1959.

I was at a preview of the Malay heritage tour and our group learnt that tours are offered in two sessions, 10.30am and 2pm, and with several activities for visitor participation, the tour should be completed within three hours.

The tour kicks off with the removal of footwear – a typically Malay custom before entering a home – to step into a Rumah Limas, a Malay-style wooden gazebo where guests are traditionally welcomed and entertained while seated on its wooden floors.

To welcome us, a group of dancers performed the Zapin, a lively Johor traditional folk dance. At the end of their performance, the dancers stepped forward to invite visitors to follow their lead in learning the basic steps and dance along with them.

With our footwear on again, we walked to the recently refurbished old building which houses the songketweaving gallery.

The traditional art of songketweaving was revived in Johor under royal command as His Majesty the Johor Sultan wished to ensure that valuable weaving skills are preserved for posterity.

During the conducted tour, we are introduced to various patterns in the fabric designs and informed that only three are available for the commoners’ use.

Meanwhile we can only admire the designs that are woven exclusively for the Sultan, Permaisuri or Queen, and members of the royal household.

A skilled worker demonstrates the art of spinning threads into spools while another is weaving the fabric, thread-bythread on a wooden traditional weaving frame.

I observed her meticulous skills that involve time and patience in weaving the songket fabric, thread-by-thread, and watched how this accounts for the high cost in each piece of completed work.

I was fascinated by the glitter and glamour of golden threads woven into songket fabric and got a sense of the superior value of each piece of handwoven fabric compared to mass-produced or machine-manufactured materials in the

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modern market.

Within the glass-fronted showcase, there are spools of polyester threads in a range of synthetic colours for visitors to compare against bunches of thread that are dyed using traditional methods and natural ingredients like turmeric roots and Butterfly Blue-pea flowers.

Next, we are ushered to the event area where we can observe craftsmen and craftswomen skilled in the art of traditional kite-making and batik-painting as well as the assembling and playing of the angklung, a traditional musical instrument made from bamboo.

This is a free-and-easy time for visitors to participate in these handicrafts or move to another area where visitors may also have a go at playing traditional games!

Seated on woven floor mats, young people are playing Batu Seremban or Five Stones, Congkak and checkers, and in the adjacent open space, some boys are playing Sepak Takraw, a game literally translated as “kicking a rattan ball.”

Visitors then pick their choices to try batik-painting or learn to play traditional games while some prefer to watch the craftsmen as they demonstrate the art of making a traditional kite or angklung.

While all this is going on, the mellow sounds of the angklung fill the air as curious visitors try their hand at playing these

After the group’s dance performance, guests are invited to learn basic steps in Johor traditional folk dance, Zapin

traditional musical instruments.

We are told that the activities presented may vary with each tour so that visitors can have different experiences with Johor traditional handicrafts and musical instruments.

Instead of the angklung, the gambus – a stringed musical instrument with Arab influence and played like the guitar – may be featured in the tour experience.

The tour ends with light refreshments served with a hot beverage like Teh Tarik or traditional pulled-milk tea.

The refreshment menu has a mix of sweet and savoury items like stir-fried noodles, curry-puffs and popular local kuih or cakes like seri-muka.

Visitors who have completed painting their pieces of batik can happily take them home as special souvenirs.

Before leaving the Malay Heritage

A conducted tour of the Galleri Tenun or songket-weaving gallery

Centre, I also visited the other Rumah Limas which houses the souvenir shop and showcases a collection of traditional Malay costumes.

Visitors are encouraged to dress up in Johor Malay traditional costumes and pose for photographs at Instagram-worthy spots like the open windows and charming verandah of the Rumah Limas.

I also explored the interior of the Rumah Limas to admire its traditional architecture and layout and feel how it is naturally ventilated by crosswinds through strategically positioned windows.

It’s a wonder of traditional architecture in Malay homes for families to live comfortably in an era when there was no air-conditioning!

Besides the Malay heritage tour, visitors may choose to have an exclusive experience of a traditional Malay wedding performed with a traditional welcome, bridal reception and wedding ceremony with blessings and which ends with a traditional dance for everyone to join in.

The Johor Malay Heritage experience is organised by S N Vacation Sdn Bhd for A Glimpse of Malay Heritage and A Malay Traditional Wedding.

Tours for minimum 20 visitors should be arranged a week in advance. Tel: +607 226 1780 and 226 1781, email: snvc@snvacation. com or mobile Tel: +6019 778 6188.

The One-Stop Malay Heritage Centre is closed on Fridays and Public Holidays. For more info, visit website: www.snvacation. com TI

Guests may experience indoor and outdoor traditional games like Batu Seremban or Five Stones

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Drive from Kota Bharu to Johor Sports Science: Gearing Johor Athletes for SUKMA Johor 2020 Bahru with just one tank

State Youth, Sports, Entrepreneurship Development and Cooperatives Committee chairman Sheikh Umar Bagharib Ali at Johor Sports Council (MSNJ)’s The Cage in Iskandar Puteri

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n an effort to make Johor as Malaysia’s emerging and strong challengers in competitive sports, the Johor Sports Council (MSNJ) has been consistent in developing its own sports science discipline and in lieu to that, it has launched its new sporting facilities for Johor athletes’ prior to SUKMA Johor in 2020.

MSNJ built their own Sports Science Centre (Pusat Sains Sukan) with state

of the art gymnasium for strength and conditioning, known as “The Cage and Cage Recovery Centre (CRC)” at Rumah Iskandar Malaysia, Iskandar Puteri, Johor after the previous sports science service at Sekolah Tunku Mahkota Ismail (SSTMI) ceased its operation. CRC functions as athlete’s recreational area and is placed right in the heart of the athletes’ dormitory for easy access.

The state’s sports science programme includes lending services like training for trainers, organising workshops and talks for every sports enthusiast around Johor. In order to give the best match on what athletes need to perform in their top form, a huge amount of systematic data is collected and it requires constant research and types of expertise in the long run.

State Yo u t h , Sports, Entrepreneurship Development and

Cooperatives Committee chairman Sheikh Umar Bagharib Ali was present to observe and check on both facilities and athletes. As it is quite a new venture, he said the sports science facilities and services shall be made available for athletes all over Johor, citing it as a long term plan. SUKMA Johor 2020 is the priority right now. Another, ‘The Cage’ is in the plan to open in Kluang, Johor by the first quarter of the year 2020.

637 athletes and competitors recruited via TID (talent identification) have benefited from the sports science services from November 2018 to October 2019. 26 types of sports has received the sports science treatment in terms of physical fitness test, strength and conditioning training, sports rehabilitation and recovery, sports nutrition, sports psychology and ongoing observation. - by Norfy Shafeq TI

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ur first national car might have had a bad reputation over the past few years, but the company has changed its gears and is steering in the right direction. Part of Proton’s smart strategy to win the trust of customers was to show. The “1 Tank Adventure” competition event has effectively proved that the new Proton cars are indeed impressive.

Fuel-efficiency of a car is an important part of any conversations about cars. A total of 710 km journey set off from Kota Bharu, Kelantan, and ended in Johor Bahru, Johor, was covered by 36 finalist teams, 18 Proton cars.

The car models: Proton Iriz, Proton Persona, and Proton Saga were the only cars in the competition. First checkpoint was at Pantai Rhu in Terengganu, followed by an overnight stop at Kuantan, Pahang, and they finally made their way to the award ceremony day in Puteri Harbour, Iskandar Puteri.

Each car had two categories: Media and Owner. Winners were chosen based on the average amount of fuel consumed over their journey. The best figure was by Owner category in Proton Saga, clocking an impressive 4.65 litres per 100km, and close-match 4.78 litres per 100km for Media category. Proton Iriz read a 4.82 litres per 100km for Media category and 5.31 litres per 100km for Owner. Proton Persona’s numbers were about 5 litres per 100km for both

One of the winners from the 1 Tank Adventure, bagged home RM3000 for driving 4.651 litres per 100km!

categories. Strict time limits had been enforced in between checkpoints to ensure the safety of other road users; which means the winner could not drive too slowly to save fuel. The average speed was above 70km/h, similar to a typical real-world driving situation.

With this result, based on a 40 liters tank, Proton Iriz and Saga would theoretically be able to travel 800km with one tank.

Dr Li Chunrong, CEO of Proton, in his speech, said Proton aims to manufacture “world-class products” and is also committed to delivering good service to customers.

Proton Holdings Berhad joined a partnership with Zhejiang Geely Holdings Group in 2017. The automotive company has since undergone a rebranding phase with its new promise: Inspiring Connections. - by Salamahafifi TI

Unifying Communities through Sports with Uni Run 2019

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ttention to all students, runners, sportsmen and Iskandar Puteri residents, pump up your adrenaline for some competitive running at EduCity Sports Complex in Iskandar Puteri, Johor for Uni Run 2019 on 7th December 2019 at 7am!

Organised by EduCity Iskandar Malaysia Sdn Bhd, the run’s tagline of ‘Unifying

Communities Through Sports’ clearly aims to unite students from various institutions, sportspersons from various sports and also the Iskandar Puteri community. The run is endorsed by the Ministry of Education Malaysia (MOE) and Majlis Sukan IPTS Malaysia (MASISWA).

The run has two categories namely an Open Category for both male and female and the University Category is also separated into

Break Into the Realms of Fantasy World

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hat do you say about taking your mobile photography game one notch up at the Trickeye Museum Plex and K Digital Park in Johor Bahru City Square Shopping Mall?

The Trickeye Museum is where visitors can experience optical illusion.

Once you enter the museum you have to first connect your smartphone with their Wifi then download the ‘XR MUSEUM’ application at APP STORE or Google Play. If you have trouble with the app, feel free to get some help from the staff around you.

Now it’s time to enjoy the beautiful graffiti painted on 9 different beautiful themed zones. Get ready to snap some pictures but remember to open that application you have just downloaded, and step on the assigned footstep guide, aim it straight and experience the magic that happens in your screen!

Spoiler alert – Every corner at each zone has its own surprises!

Keeping visual memories are just one of the activities. If you like handson stuff, build some blocks at the Art Block Café or relax at one corner where

Amazing! Look out for it to come alive

you can colour dinosaurs and watch it walking on the huge screen there. Feeling adventurous? Visit K Digital Park to ride a robot!

The Trickeye Museum Plex and K Digital Park tickets are priced at RM38 per adult. They also offer special packages for you to experience according to your needs. If you are planning with a group of more than 20 people, call them up at 07 220 0250 to make arrangements. Located at M5-02 Level 5, Johor Bahru City Square Shopping Mall, the museum is open daily from 10am to 10pm with the last admission at 9pm. - by Norfy Shafeq TI

male and female. With winning in mind, prizes for each categories are RM300 for the 1st place, RM200 for 2nd place and RM100 for 3rd place.

Registration fee is as low as RM60 per pax registering from 1st till the 23rd of November 2019. Each participating runner would get a t-shirt, a medal and an e-Certificate. Register your interest soon and get those running shoes ready. Do note that

the run is open to anyone from 12 years and above.

At the same day of Uni Run 2019, a varsity sports championship southern region 2019 (Kejohanan Sukan Mahasiswa Zon Selatan 2019) would be held at the same venue.

For more information, please call 07 509 5776 (ESC Support Team). - by The Iskandarian TI

Pretty In Pink for Breast Cancer Awareness Month

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n an effort to raise awareness about breast cancer, Columbia Asia Hospital Iskandar Puteri (CAHIP) decorated their hospital pink for a week in October as a part of their Breast Cancer Awareness Campaign 2019 jointly organised with Breast Cancer Welfare Association Malaysia (BCWA) that specially came down from Kuala Lumpur.

As a part of CAHIP’s corporate social responsibility (CSR) effort, the initiative provided awareness and education to the community on the risk factors and symptoms of breast cancer and the importance of seeking medical evaluation.

BCWA’s matron Salimah and matron Nazirah provided their expertise in breast cancer self-examination and counselling.

The campaign kicked off with a breast cancer talk

by Dr. Ding Eng Li, General Columbia Asia Hospital Manager of Columbia Asia Iskandar Puteri is undergoing Hospital Iskandar Puteri construction of a new at JEIWA Power House medical ward which will in Paradigm Mall to 200 accommodate Coronary Care participants in collaboration Unit (CCU) with additional with Johor Empowerment 19 beds and expansion of a of Intellectual Women new Accident & Emergency area with larger waiting area Association (JEIWA).

Among the activities and more emergency bays, during the one-week expected to be completed by campaign were charity sales the third quarter of 2020. - by of CAHIP’s exclusive Breast Norfy Shafeq TI Cancer Awareness Month t-shirt and merchandise, roadshows, basic health screening, carnival games, healthy cooking demonstration, colouring contest, beauty workshop, special magic show and more. All proceeds collected BCWA’s matron Salimah and CAHIP’s were donated to General Manager, Dr. Ding Eng Li taking commemorative picture for BCWA. their 4th year of collaboration Currently,

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N O V E M B E R 2 0 19

INSIDE It’s Show Time...

Get Your Popcorn Ready + Maroon 5 Unveils “Memories”

NOV 2019 | Page 2

The Iskandarian | WAVES Lifestyle

editor’s T note

he 6th IMSHA awards held on the 17th of October 2019 ended well with a total of 20 award winners acknowledged in 11 categories. This year, the bar had been raised even higher as the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) were included as part of the scoring criteria. Well done to all winners and thank you for making a difference in our society.

Frozen which opened in 2013, is the highest grossing animated film of all time and it won an Academy Award for best animated feature film of the year and the film’s iconic song, “Let It Go” also won an Oscar. Now back after 6 years in Frozen 2,

Priya Manikam waves.lifestyle@gmail.com

Elsa and team embarks on a new journey to save her kingdom. Another comeback is Charlie’s Angels with a brand new set of gals, and Disney brings us a true story in Ford v Ferrari.

If you’re wondering where to dine or go on a special date, head to Tosca at DoubleTree by Hilton Johor Bahru. Tosca has released an all-new menu filled with classic Italian favourites at a promotional price.

Harish continues his staycation tales at Le Grandeur Palm Resort in Senai and it seems like he had a great time there with a nice foot massage, swimming and good food. Book a stay there soon to enjoy whatever he did.

As always, for those wishing to share their fashion collection, travel tales, or like us to review your restaurant/hotel for a staycation, drop me an e-mail at waves. lifestyle@gmail.com and be featured. For more news, do access www.theiskandarian. com

Priya

Music Updates

MAROON 5

Unveils “Memories” New Single

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aroon 5 had recently released a brand new single entitled “Memories”.

“Memories” claimed a spot in the Top 5 of iTunes Overall Top Songs Chart and Top 5 of the Top Pop Songs Chart in addition to trending worldwide.

It marks the first new music from the three-time GRAMMY Awardwinning multi-platinum Los Angeles band since the release of their global anthem “Girls Like You” in 2017.

About “Memories,” singer and songwriter Adam Levine commented, “In an ever increasingly crazy world, let’s just carve out one moment to think of those we love and share the memories of the ones we’ve lost.”

Produced by Adam Levine and The Monsters & Strangerz and

Executive Produced by Jacob “J Kash” Hindlin, “Memories” marks a moment of creative and personal progression for the musicians. The minimalist ballad starkly pairs a lilting clean guitar with chantable and evocative lyrics from Levine. In addition to representing another sonic side, it tackles uncharted subject matter for the group, namely loss—but from a different angle.

At its emotionally charged climax, the tune quietly builds towards a beautiful, barroom-ready elegy as the front-man sings, “Here’s to the ones that we got, cheers to the wish you were here, but you’re not, cuz the drinks bring back all the memories of everything we’ve been through…and the memories bring back you.”

Listen to “Memories” here: https://lnk.to/m5_mriesFP TI

By Universal Music Singapore

NOV 2019 | Page 3

The Iskandarian | WAVES Lifestyle

Release and Align for Mental Wellbeing – Part 1

Rose Osman is a Certified Human Design Professional.

She’s a guide for Living Your Design Workshop and coaches others on self healing for anxiety via E-courses and group workshops

yourpersonalmotivator BucketOfRoses www.roselifecoach.com

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s I was writing this article, the world was celebrating Mental Health Day. It’s positive to note that our focus on mental wellbeing is increasing and many of us are aware that mental illness is no different than physical illness. The pain is unseen but the agony that we are trapped in the well of suffering is real. To break that suffering requires understanding and compassion from our own self and others. People who suffer from mental illness can’t heal

alone. They need the collective to see mental illness for what it is. The process is a long journey towards the light. Collectively, we need to wake up and see that the root cause of mental illness is not in individuals alone, but also in our human collective psyche.

Imagine that humanity is like one big body. We have our collective brain and minds too. Every individual represents a unit of cell or organism in the body. The strength and health of humanity depends on

the strength and health as a group.

Together, we have a single cell consciousness (which represents as individual consciousness) as well as collective consciousness. We cannot separate the individual from the collective. Therefore, mental health for everyone is important regardless of their social status. The idea to make 10th October as World Mental Health Day is a good step to bring awareness to the collective.

Here’s one way to be aware of mental illness. In every person

who deals with mental illness, there is a collective story behind the suffering. For example, humans have lived through many wars, natural disasters and economic depression.

We are dealing with a collective level of trauma, anger, shame, guilt, despair, grief and apathy. For sure, on the individual level, there are factors to explain their mental illness, but we can’t separate them from the collective story. Therefore, how do we attain mental health collectively? TI

Discover your True Self, Inner Power, Potentials and Purpose with Human Design. Visit Facebook Page : Human Design Malaysia for more info.

Genre: Action-Comedy Release date: 14th November 2019 Directed by: James Mangold Screenplay by: Jez Butterworth & John-Henry Butterworth and Jason Keller Producers: Peter Chernin, Jenno Topping, James Mangold Cast: Matt Damon, Christian Bale, Jon Bernthal, Caitriona Balfe, Tracy Letts, Josh Lucas, Noah Jupe, Remo Girone, Ray McKinnon

Release date: 27th November 2019

T

Directed by: Chris Buck, Jennifer Lee

hree years after the events of the first film, Elsa starts to hear a strange sound from the north calling her. Together with her sister Anna, Kristoff, Olaf, and Sven, they embark on a new journey beyond their homeland of Arendelle in order to discover the origin of Elsa’s magical powers and save their kingdom. TI

Produced by: Peter Del Vecho Voice Cast: Kristen Bell, Idina Menzel, Jonathan Groff and Josh Gad

Source:

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cademy Award-winners Matt Damon and Christian Bale star in FORD v FERRARI, based on the remarkable true story of the visionary American car designer Ca r ro l l S h e l by ( D a m o n ) a n d t h e fearless British-born driver Ken Miles

The Walt Disney Company Malaysia

Source:

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n director Banks’ bold vision, Kristen Stewart, Naomi Scott, and Ella Balinska are working for the mysterious Charles Townsend, whose security and investigative agency has expanded internationally.

With the world’s smartest, bravest, and most highly trained women all over the globe, there are now teams of Angels guided by multiple Bosleys taking on the toughest jobs everywhere. TI

(Bale), who together battled corporate interference, the laws of physics, and their own personal demons to build a revolutionary race car for Ford Motor Company and take on the dominating race cars of Enzo Ferrari at the 24 Hours of Le Mans in France in 1966. TI

The Walt Disney Company Malaysia

Genre: Action-Comedy

Screenplay by: Elizabeth Banks

Release date: 14th November 2019

Story by: Evan Spiliotopoulos and David Auburn

Directed by: Elizabeth Banks Produced by: Doug Belgrad, Elizabeth Cantillon, Elizabeth Banks Max Handelman Executive Producers:

Matthew Hirsch, Leonard Goldberg, Drew Barrymore Nancy Juvonen Source:

Sony Pictures Malaysia

Written by: Linda Woolverton, Micah Fitzerman-Blue, and Noah Harpster Cast: Kristen Stewart, Naomi Scott, Ella Balinska, Elizabeth Banks Djimon Hounsou, Noah Centineo, Sam Claflin and Patrick Stewart

NOV 2019 | Page 4

The Iskandarian | WAVES Lifestyle CALENDAR OF EVENTS

travel

NOVEMBER 2019 1st Nov Johor Youth U16 Volleyball Championship @ UTM

1st – 3rd Nov •

Modern Living Home Expo @ Sutera Mall

•

2nd MAPEX 2019 @ City Square JB

2nd Nov • •

Southern Twincity Marathon @ Puteri Harbour Charity Concert & Carnival @ Dewan Azalea

6th – 7th Nov Smart Manufacturing 4.0 @ Big Wheel Seedbank

8th – 10th Nov JDT Food Fiesta @ Jln Sg Segget

9th Nov The Prophet’s Birthday

12th – 17th Nov Property Queen Expo @ AEON Bkt Indah

13th Nov Funival @ Southern University College

13th – 15th Nov It’s The Ship party @ Singapore

16th – 17th Nov Teddy & Friends Show @ Our Tampines Hub, S’pore

21st – 24th Nov Asia Pacific Food Expo @ Singapore Expo

23rd Nov

Naturally Splendid Escape at Le Grandeur Palm Resort – Part Two Olympic size swimming pool at the Sports & Leisure Club

By Harish Mustak waves.lifestyle@gmail.com

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fter the golf course tour and a session of bowling at the Sports & Leisure Club, I went to the Cocomo restaurant near the pool to chill and have a slice of brownie and cool water. Later in the evening for dinner, also at Cocomo – a Surf & Turf restaurant, I had the loin and prawns with baked potato and vegetables as sides. A little bit of the land and a little bit of the sea; it was perfect to close a long day. The bar next door though is open till late for those drinking buddies and party groups.

Do take note that Le Grandeur is open for parties whether big or small such as birthdays, team building, or weddings.

The pool area is perfect for a dinner party but just make sure no one falls in, unless it’s a wet pool dinner party!

After dinner, I decided to head back to the room for some TV. I was excited to try out their new smart TV and little did I know, time flew really quickly when you’re on YouTube and I dozed off comfortably.

Come morning, I was contemplating whether to go swimming or just have breakfast. I decided to do it in correct sequence of course. I mean who goes for a swim after a meal?! So, after flexing my arms in the pool I was ready for some food.

Breakfast comprised of local fare and it did its part to fill me up but I was looking forward to lunch at Sobasei where Teppanyaki was served. One more stop before that, a foot massage at Le Spa. Public service announcement to those

Chef Nizam, the master at the Teppanyaki ticklish and pain intolerant people, I

Afternoon dessert at Cocomo suggest you to tell the masseuse you have a voice. It’s either she has strong hands, or

she knows the spots.

So then, right after the foot spa, I felt like I could run a marathon. Only felt like it, not actually going to do it because my marathon was to Sobasei which is part of the Sino-Japanese fusion restaurant next to Ishwara. What a way to end a short staycation with a wonderfully choreographed performance and presentation by Chef Nizam who is the resident Teppanyaki Chef. Just as I burped my last Teppanyaki steak bite, I was already in my car revving away from the Palm Resort feeling wonderful with the hospitality rendered to me. Like I said in the beginning, checking in is a breeze, so is checking out.

So, if you feel like going away for a short staycation or take your family out for a quick family day, call +607-5996000 or email to sales@palmresort.com for events or functions, or reservations@palmresort. com for reservations. TI

Night Fun Run @ Ponderosa Golf & Country Resort

23rd – 24th Nov Close to Nature’ Let’s Bond Weekend 3.0 @ Ponderosa

26th Nov 3rd Leg Ponderosa Golf Junior Open 2019 @ Ponderosa Golf & Country Resort

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

Nice set-up ready for my tired feet at the Le Spa

Surfing & turfing at Cocomo for dinner

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Mudskipper Wars – Comical Antics in the Mud their fins and open their mouths wide to scare away competitors for a potential partner – watch which one wins and which one backs away in resignation. Note how they twitch from side to side to make themselves look bigger, and how the spots on their backs seem to glow in the excitement.

Kelab Alami offers lowtide mangrove walks to watch these crazy critters: log on to kelabalami.weebly.com for more information. TI

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udskippers are a kind of fish that can survive without water for periods of time. Sometimes collected as medicine, it is commonly found on intertidal mud flats, in mangroves and shallow coastal waters. There are several species of mudskippers in Johor, but the most entertaining tend to be the

Blue-spotted mudskippers as they try to impress their mates and fend off potential suitors.

I f you watch a mudskipper move, it seems to be able to hop on mud or walk on water. It uses its side pectoral fins almost like feet, propelling itself forward in quick bursts.

The mudskipper can survive out of water because it can live on

the oxygen from the water that it stores in its rather large gills.

It is also able to absorb oxygen through its mouth and throat lining, enabling it to stay on ‘dry’ land for longer periods of time.

You can while away a whole afternoon just watching these funny fish interact with each other in the shallows or at low-tide. Observe how they lift

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

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The Silent Killer That You Should Not Ignore Long QT syndrome - One of the causes of sudden cardiac death among adolescents

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bout 1 in 5,000 people have Long QT syndrome (LQTS), and it occurs in both children and adolescents.

We might not often hear about LQTS, but it affects youngsters and may even cause sudden death.

Long QT syndrome (LQTS) is a disorder of the heart’s electrical activity.

It can cause sudden, uncontrollable, dangerous arrhythmias in response to exercise or stress often leading to fainting.

According to Regency Specialist Hospital’s cardiologist Dr Ang Kai Ping, there are three types of LQTS which are relatively common; LQTS 1, LQTS 2 and LQTS 3. These LQTS are caused by exercise, especially swimming (LQTS 1), adrenergic triggers, nightly noise such as the alarm clock (LQTS 2) and sudden waking up (LQTS 3).

Many people may not be aware of the existence of LQTS among themselves as it may not have any signs or symptoms which develop as a silent LQTS. Therefore, Dr Ang advises one to seek medical advice if,

• • • •

We develop sudden, uncontrollable and chaotic heart rhythms during exercise We are feeling strong emotions for no apparent reason We have seizures Our parent, sibling or child has been diagnosed with LQTS and it might be inherited and the family members are advised to test for disorder.

“There are few types of medical treatments available in the industry. Patient takes medication likes beta-blockers which slow the heart rate by blunting their heart’s reaction to adrenaline in times of exertion, stress or fear. This can reduce the chance of dangerous rhythms from occurring.

Another common medical procedure is an Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator (ICD) which is placed under the skin of the chest. It will monitor the heartbeat and deliver electrical shocks to restore a normal heart rhythm if necessary,” added Dr Ang. Long QT syndrome (LQTS) is usually a lifelong condition and may cause fear, anxiety, depression, and stress. It is important to live with LQTS consciously

to prevent abnormal heart rhythms by following these steps,

•

•

•

Avoid things that may trigger abnormal heart rhythms. If exercise triggers abnormal heart rhythm, your doctor may tell you to avoid any strenuous exercise, especially swimming. Do note that medicines that are used to treat allergies, infections, high blood pressure, high blood cholesterol, depression, and arrhythmias may cause irregular heart rhythms as well.

Inform others. Let your surrounding people know that you might faint or your heart might stop beating, and tell them what steps they can take. It is important that someone beside you can perform CPR and use the Automated External Defibrillator (AED). This device uses electric shocks to restore a normal heart rhythm. All these can help to save your life.

See your cardiologist regularly to understand your condition and they will suggest a suitable treatment for you.

Taking care of your heart is crucial as it helps to pump blood to the body, supply oxygen and nutrients to the tissues.

“Avoiding saturated fats, trans-fats, and excess sodium intake is important for a healthy heart diet. The recommended salt intake per day is 2,400mg while 4000mg is the average salt intake per day in Malaysian population. Keep yourself away from processed food, fast food, canned food, salted food and sauces which are high in sodium content”, says Regency Specialist Hospital’s dietitian, Fong Mok Yan. Stay active According to the hospital’s physiotherapist, Shyamalah, there are two types of exercises that are excellent for our heart; namely aerobic exercise and resistance training. However, it is always good to check with your doctor on your condition and suitability first before embarking on any kinds of exercise. TI

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work

Return to Status Quo - Arrears on Back Wages

Cassandra Pius Legal Adviser MECA Employers Consulting Agency Sdn Bhd cassandra@meca.com.my

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n 2018, the case of Lee Lily and Leong Chee Kong against Novartis Corporation (Malaysia) Sdn. Bhd. was heard together and reported in Award No. 2195 of 2018 as they had arisen from the same facts. The claimants were accused of misconduct for the breach of Company rules and policy as well as negligence thereby causing financial loss to

the Company. A third party was found to be the root cause of the situation and had admitted doing so via a police report. The Industrial Court found that it was unfair and unreasonable to blame the Claimants for the actions of another and found the dismissals to be without just cause and excuse.

The award given by the court was to order reinstatement for both claimants. The court went on further to order full back wages for the duration of the period that they were out of employment to be paid back, less 50% and all the other benefits and allowances that would have to be paid to the Claimants.

Co n s e q u e n t l y, the Company and the Claimants were unable to come to a mutual understanding with regards to the payment of back wages. To resolve the issue, both claimants filed an application for interpretation under S.33 (1) Industrial Relations Act 1967 (IRA 1967).

I n identical awards based on the application for interpretation, the judgement by Chairman Y.A. Tuan Bernard John Kanny put forward the argument that the limitation of back wages of 24 months did not apply to awards where reinstatement was ordered. Therefore, in accordance with the Award 2195 of 2018, they would both be accorded back wages and benefits and allowances for 28 months in total amounting to almost RM800,000 each.

The award by the Chairman was seen to be contrary to the limitation on back wages set out

by Schedule 2 of the Industrial Relations Act 1967. Whereby, the maximum award for back wages allowed is 24 months.

In order to support his argument to depart from the limitation, the Chairman made the distinction that the Schedule 2 limitation in relation to back wages only applies in the granting of compensation in lieu and not

to reinstatement. He provided what was a seemingly compelling argument making reference to a previous Practice Direction and the case of Sabah Forest Industries Sdn. Bhd. V Industrial Court Malaysia & Anor [2014] to further substantiate his view.

U n h a p py w i t h t h e interpretation attained, the matter was taken up in judicial review before the High Court. The High Court judge, Mariana Yahya, made the ruling that “Back wages cannot exceed 24 months, irrespective of whether the employee is given back his job,” thereby quashing the interpretation of the Industrial Court.

With this, the status quo with regard to the maximum award o f back wages has been restored.

Whether its for

back wages given in addition to a compensation or as part of reinstatement, the maximum award an Industrial Court can make is for 24 months.

The High Court maintained the findings of the Industrial Court that the dismissal was without cause and the reinstatement order was correct. Only the decision as to the quantum of award varied.

In conclusion, the judge made the ruling that Leong was now entitled to 12 months in back wages. TI

Social Media Defamation

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n this day and age, technology plays an extremely important role in our lives especially with social media sites being commonly used worldwide by most people. Social media is a tool which has many positive advantages that it allows people from all walks of life to connect with each other. It also allows businesses to be more marketable and it gives the freedom to leaders and/or celebrities to communicate with their followers or fans on their activities, lifestyles or policies.

However, where there is good, there is also adverse effects.

One of the downside of social media is the negative effect it can have on an individual, company or people in general. Due to the fact that social media connects everyone around

the globe regardless of where they are, this means that anyone can also be a victim of false rumours or malicious lies being spread about them. In legal terms, the said victim is being defamed.

D e f a m at i o n is the communication of a false statement which has the effect of tarnishing, damaging or harming the reputation of an individual, business, product, group and even nations. With social media, there are those who use it as a platform to complain or say nasty things about their bosses, colleagues, ex-relationships and etc. This is known as social media defamation, and it has serious consequences in the eyes of the law.

A victim may sue a person for defamation to get compensation for having his/her reputation being

tarnished or damaged. Section 499 of the Penal Code provides that: “Whoever, by words either spoken or intended to be read or by signs, or by visible representations, makes or publishes any imputation concerning any person, intending to harm, or knowing or having reason to believe that such imputation will harm the reputation and shall also be liable to fine of such person, is said, except in the cases hereinafter excepted, to defame that person.”

Section 500 of the Penal Code states that, “whoever defames another shall be punished with imprisonment for a term which may extend to two years or with fine or both.”

It is not stated as to the amount of the fine. This means that every case will be treated differently and the amount varies, depending on each case.

Section 233 of the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998 provides that:

1. A person who— (a) by means of any network facilities or network service or applications service knowingly— (i) makes, creates or solicits; and (ii) initiates the transmission of, any comment, request, suggestion or other communication which is obscene, indecent, false, menacing or offensive in character with intent to annoy, abuse, threaten or harass another person; or (b) initiates a communication

using any applications service, whether continuously, repeatedly or otherwise, during which communication may or may not ensue, with or without disclosing his identity and with intent to annoy, abuse, threaten or harass any person at any number or electronic address, commits an offence.

Certain elements are needed to prove defamation such as proof of defamatory material, the content of the remark/post is about the victim and the said material which is deemed to be defamatory was circulated to other people other than the victim.

Innuendos or statements which have implied meanings also constitutes as defamation. As long as there are people who can suspect who the victim is or what the victim does, all of which may damage the victim’s reputation, it can be counted as defamation.

Defamation does not necessarily mean that the person being defamed must be named.

Even if the person that is being defamed is not named, it could still be defamation if the said person could be identified or ascertained.

As long as outsiders can guess who the person is talking about, then it could be defamatory. For those who are not involved in making the defamatory remarks or posts about the victim but shares the defamatory post, that person could also be liable to be sued. Anyone who republishes a defamatory

Mohd Danish Bin Shahrir Bachelor of Law (Hons), MMU Associate in Law Chamber of Vin Sa & Ian

statement has a responsibility to make sure that such a statement is true and fair, and will so be liable for defamation as well if they cannot prove that such statement is true and fair. They cannot defend themselves by stating that they are only reposting what someone else has said or that they are not responsible for what the original poster said as they chose to share the said defamatory post.

In a recent case in Malaysia, under social media defamation, the Court has granted compensation up to RM150,000 to a victim of defamation. However, do note that the amount varies according to the facts of each case.

Therefore, before posting anything bad or defamatory about anyone on social media, one should always take a step back and reflect on the consequences involved.

Even if the post may be true, it still does not make it right. Social media is a powerful tool which can be life changing. Let’s use it to make the world a better place for all. Spread love, not hate. TI

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invest

Accumulating Wealth Tips & Tricks

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Will the Bull Run Continue?

ctober is one of the feared months in the stock market. This is because in the past, a few events have given October a bad name, such as The Bank Panic of 1907, The Stock Market Crash of 1929 and Black Monday 1987. All these events happened in October. Fortunately, in the first half of October this year, the global stock markets seemed to have fared well. This is especially so after Beijing agreed to boost purchase of U.S. farm goods.

Again, this is one of the very positive news among the bad news. The Brexit uncertainty, Hong Kong chaos, slower China economy, inverted yield curve, potential global recession, and not forgetting the many other bad news of trade wars in the last few months. Investors are unlikely to get overexcited by Trump’s ‘greatest and biggest deal ever’. Nonetheless, I believe it is more likely that the US Bull Run would continue for a couple of reasons: • The three main US indexes, namely the Dow Jones, S&P 500 and Nasdaq are trending up and close to their new highs.

• The Federal Reserve has adopted a more dovish stance, which is good for the stock market.

• The US unemployment rate has reduced to 3.5% in September 2019, which is the lowest in 50

•

•

•

years.

Historically, the market rallied more than 15% on average in the 18 months following the yield curve inversion. A recession hits in 22 months after the inversion. The yield curve inverted in August 2019 and has gone back to normal.

US markets tend to be the most bullish on the 3rd and 4th term of the Presidential term, which is in 2019 and 2020.

Negative news dominates the headlines. An interesting phenomenon is that the bull market always climbs amid worries. The more bad news and the more pessimistic investors are, the bull is more likely to continue. This has happened in the last few years, from the echoes of subprime crisis after 2009, the Europe sovereign debt crisis, followed by the US debt ceiling. None of those years were peaceful, yet the bull has been climbing until now.

In the short term, especially following the budget announcement and the good progress of trade talks between US and China, I’m seeing a higher possibility of a market honeymoon in the next few weeks.

So, are we expecting a better portfolio performance? Let’s have a look at our portfolio on 14th October 2019:

Tey Bin Yuen Binyuen is the founder of BY Enrich Resources and the author of ‘Life beyond the Comfort Zone’ and ‘Profit from Share Investment’.

His books are available in major bookstores in Malaysia, Singapore or online http://www.teybinyuen.com/ profitfromshareinvestment .

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.

The portfolio above has showed a gain of 247% since November 2015, a 20% improvement compared to a month ago. In this month, we received 0.5 cents dividend from JHM and 1 cent from KGB, amounting to RM1800.

Transaction wise, we switched KIPREIT to a new counter.

Bought SCICOM (0099) SCICOM (MSC) Bhd is a provider of global outsourced solutions to international corporate clients, domestic conglomerates and governments. Their scope of solutions includes Business Process Outsourcing (BPO), E-Commerce, GovTech, education and digital. There are seven highlights of SCICOM: • The Return of Equity (ROE) ranged between 30%-40% from 2014-2018, which shows that the

•

•

•

•

company was very productive.

While its net profits in FY2019 reduced substantially, its revenues have seemed to have improved four quarters continuously.

According to SCICOM’s FY2019 Q4 report, the Group has increased its BPO business client base by 22%, and the contribution to the Group’s revenue and profitability from these clients is expected to increase in the financial year of 2020.

SCICOM also pointed out its Outsourcing division is expected to secure some major contracts during the FY2020.

In the Gov-tech division, the Group indicated confidence to be shortlisted in the several

•

•

tenders from both local and international governments.

The company has strong cash flow and zero debt. In addition, the company has been paying generous dividends in the last five to ten years. Based on the current price, its dividend yield is 6%.

Technically, the price chart has showed a bottoming up and formed a gradual uptrend.

With its fundamentals showed in sync with technical, we bought 50000 shares of SCICOM at 0.915. Our new cash level is now at RM51,881.

Conclusion So will the Bull continue to run?

Given the above rationales, I believe it is likely. With good stock selection criteria plus favourable macro, I trust that your chance of winning is higher.

May the force be with you! TI

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Amy Search, the leading performer of the evening, also graciously donated his microphone stand and jacket

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ith a presence spanning 75 countries worldwide, Hard Rock International celebrated the grand opening of its second Malaysian property, Hard Rock Hotel Desaru Coast, on Saturday, the 28th of September 2019. The celebration k icked- off with the brand’s signature Hard Rock guitar smash and included star-studded musical performances from Malaysian rock ‘n’ roll legend Amy Search, followed by DJ Chinois, and Hydra, and fireworks.

“Hard Rock International is excited to continue to grow its

presence in Malaysia, while celebrating 10 successful years of serving guests in Penang,” said Dale Hipsh, Senior Vice President of Hard Rock Hotels. “Hard Rock Hotel Desaru Coast is thrilled to bring our one-ofa-kind vibe, signature brand amenities and globally renowned hospitality to this unique piece of paradise.”

Adding to the celebrations in Malaysia, Hard Rock Hotel Penang livened up its 10th anniversar y with an electrifying poolside party that featured legendary local musicians, Alleycats, Dato’ Zainal Abidin and Headwind.

In Johor, a surprise visit by Rita Gilligan, the legendary waitress at the first Hard Rock Cafe in London in 1971, brought even more energy and excitement to the team and fans of the brand.

Hard Rock Hotel Desaru Coast features an iconic music memorabilia collection. The hotel offers complimentary tour for guests to view pieces from artists like Elvis Presley, The Rolling Stones, Madonna, Lady Gaga and Rihanna.

Amy Search, the leading

performer of the evening, also graciously donated his microphone stand and jacket during an exclusive donation signing ceremony, to add to the hotel’s regionally inspired collection.

With 365 musicinspired rooms and suites with balconies, and over 780 square feet of indoor event space along with three meeting rooms, Hard Rock Hotel Desaru Coast provides an amplified experience for families, honeymooners, groups and business travellers alike by offering unforgettable amenities and unparalleled services.

For more information or to book a stay at any of the Hard Rock Hotels & Casinos, visit hardrockhotels.com. by The Iskandarian TI

The signature guitar smashing ceremony to mark the Grand Opening of Hard Rock Hotel Desaru Coast

Unleash Your Inner Italian Stallion at Tosca DoubleTree by Hilton Johor Bahru’s Trattoria-style restaurant releases an all-new menu filled with classic Italian favourites

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ou do not have to go all the way to a fine-dining restaurant to get a taste of authentic food.

People assume that by going to eat at a hotel is similar as fine dining but on the contrary, it is less the hassle when making reservations and most importantly easy on the wallet than you thought. Tosca is one of them. DoubleTree by Hilton Johor Bahru’s trattoria-style restaurant had released an

all-new menu filled with classic Italian favourites at a promotional price.

Bring your family and friends to level 13 of the hotel and be ready to be surprised by the classy

Some people have a love-hate relationship with Gorgonzola The antipasti table

No harm done by indulging in some decadent desserts

Wagyu in between brioche buns just seems so perfect

One of Tosca’s endearing highlights is the Cheese Room with top -notch selec tions

environment at Tosca.

Beautiful setting by the pool with panoramic views of the city centre, it’s such a perfect place for any special occasion, as well as having dinner with the comrades.

from across Europe – UK (Blue Stilton, Applewood Smoked Cheddar); Italy (Gorgonzola, Provolone, Soresina Dolce, Taleggio, Grana Padano); Switzerland (Emmenthal); Spain (Queso Iberico, Machego Dop); Netherlands (Edam, Beemster); Ireland (Wicklow Cheddar); and France (Bleu Bresse, Roquefort Crouzat,

Camembert, Brie, Cantal Jeune, Rondin Goat Cheese, Petit Pave D’auge, Raboliot Mi Affine, Langres Aop, Comte Aop, Le Napoleon Commingeois Brebis), and more.

The Cheese Room offers cheese connoisseurs a coveted taste of some of Europe’s best at only RM38 nett per person.

Simple and qualitysourced ingredients make up the all-new menu that

feature o f fe r i n g s designed to reflect hearty flavours.

The signature dishes in the revamped menu include appetisers like Prawn Salad, and Antipasto Misto and for pastas, try the Vongole clam-centric pasta with a delicious sauce and Scoglio Squid Ink pasta (squid ink pasta chock-full with seafood).

Pizzas are a must have at any Italion trattoria and the Calzone Bomba is a favourite (oven-baked folded pizza) and just as classic, the Quattro Formaggi; a quintessential Italian pizza with four types of cheese.

For meat lovers, a

variety of dry-aged Angus cuts are available such as striploin, ribeye, short loin and op ribs. To ensure a more pronounced flavour, the meats are aged for a minimum of 21 days.

Indulge in desserts such as ‘Affogato’, a coffeebased dessert with a scoop of vanilla ice cream topping and a shot of hot espresso, or ‘Gianduja’, a decadent chocolate-hazelnut paste as an after meal delight.

For enquiries or reservations, please call +607-2686868 or email JohorBahru.FB@hilton.com.

- by Harish Mustak TI

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PROPERTY INSIGHT

More buildings in Iskandar Malaysia certified as Green Buildings - Edging towards energy efficiency

@ home

pg 27

PROPERTY

RESIDENTIAL PROJECTS

APARTMENTS

VILLAS

CONDOMINIUMS

OFFICE/RETAILSPACE

Malaysia’s First Ever Business Campus in the Heart of Johor Frontier Park 3 by WB Land brings in culture from an advanced country to Johor state pg 24

Read this article on our website

Mah Sing Group Officially unveils Ramada by Wyndham Meridin

UMLand Seri Austin Partners with SWM Environment for continuous Green Living

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UMLand Seri Austin and SWM Environment Promotes Recycling Campaign can be recycled. The programme is being implemented in collaboration with SWM Environment Sdn Bhd called ‘KITAR3cycle’.

KITAR3cycle is a campaign by SWM Environment focused on spreading mass Doing our bit for the environment awareness and MLand Seri Austin has sensitising public on how and successfully launched its where to dispose waste in a continuous ‘Green Living’ responsible manner. Also to aim effort which is aimed at encouraging the public to at promoting recycling, where appreciate recycled items that can public will be awarded points for generate side income and save on separating their garbage which the use of natural resources in the

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production of goods.

The launching of the programme officiated by Richard Tan, the official representative for Steven Choong, the Member of Parliament Tebrau witnessed by KK Wong, Group Director of UMLand Townships cum CEO of Seri Austin and Mohd Norlisam Mohd Nordin, General Manager of Corporate Affairs, SWM Environment Sdn Bhd. At the launching ceremony, a total of 430kg of recyclable item was collected from public as it seeks to pave the way for “a sustainable green” behaviours in improving the quality of life.

“We were recognised as the Smart Healthy City & Communities Township in Iskandar Malaysia by

Toppen Shopping Centre All Set to Open Soon

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oppen Shopping Centre next to IKEA in Tebrau is about to wire in even more excitement to Johoreans’ shopping experience. Their main construction for the 1.1 million square feet shopping centre has been completed, while mechanical, electrical, plumbing works and final details to the interior and landscaping are being finalised. Bomba Safety Certification, as well as the Certificate of Completion and Compliance, have been awarded by the respective authorities too, ahead of its grand opening in November. “ With positive progress on both the construction and leasing side, we are excited to launch our latest meeting place.

Toppen Shopping Centre will no doubt add a unique dimension to the retail environment in Southern

Toppen’s one-of-a-kind rooftop community hub called The Topp, featuring interactive outdoor spaces

Malaysia,” said Christian Rojkjaer, Managing Director of IKEA Southeast Asia.

Lookout for Toppen’s one - of-a-k ind rooftop community hub called The Topp, where it features interactive alfresco spaces complemented by over 30 F&B specialties and outdoor outlets, a rooftop garden, multipurpose courts, skate parks, a spacious event piazza, kids’ playgrounds, a cinema, e-sports arena and even a water play area. These unique offerings will create

a complete ‘retailtainment’ experience for everyone.

Be ready to head to Toppen Shopping Centre for its grand opening on 13th November 2019. In line with the official opening, over 85% of its tenants are working to complete fit-outs to begin operations on the same day. The shopping centre is projected to attract 15 million visitors in the year 2020, not only from Johor and its neighbouring states but also nearby Singapore. - by Norfy Shafeq TI

Iskandar Regional Development Authority (IRDA) and we continue our contribution as part of our CSR effort to communities. This collaboration can be the best avenue for residents to participate in recycling practices by becoming active members of KITAR3cycle while taking care of the environment and to help ensure sustainable development for our future generations,” said KK Wong.

According to Mohd Norlisam, the campaign would give public a chance to redeem “Recycling Points” (RP) that can be converted into cash, items and shopping vouchers.

“The public can choose between 35 categories of recyclable items such as paper, plastic, metal, electric appliances, used cooking oil and

many others,” he added at the launch and placement of KITAR3cycle cage at Seri Austin.

To participate in the programme, you must first download the KITAR3cycle Apps set up by SWM Environment through Google Play or App Store and register. Public who have already registered as members of KITAR3cycle must put the barcode sticker on every bundle of the recyclable items according to type, such as paper, plastic and others, and put them in the Kitar3cycle cage.

Learn more about recycling and see a list of all items that SWM accepts for recycling at www.kitar3cycle.com or at ‘Talian Indahkan Malaysia’ 1-800-88-7472.

- byThe Iskandarian TI

Malaysia’s First Ever Business Campus in the Heart of Johor

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ubbed as the ultra-modern ‘Business Campus’, the third and final phase of Frontier Park; also known as Frontier Park 3 has launched its first preview at “Front Tier Park Appreciation Night 2019” to customers and partners with Johor State International Trade, Investment and Utilities committee chairman, Jimmy Puah as their guest of honour.

The Park will offer a workplace that integrates collaborative and leisure facilities within a secured environment.

Built by WB Land, Frontier Park spans around 136-acre of modern and gated industrial park at Desa Cemerlang, Johor Bahru. WB Land is looking into making Frontier Park 3 as the first Malaysian business and industrial park into a “Business Campus” that is popularly adopted by the world’s leading corporation in advanced countries.

The “Business Campus” concept allows Frontier Park to be an ideal home for factories, showrooms, service centres and offices for discerning industrialists and entrepreneurs. WB Land General Manager, Kevin Woon said, “The Park has won distinguished awards such as Best Industrial Development by Asia Pacific Property Awards (APPA) and has been recognised by the Johor state government as the benchmark for industrial development and the park is currently 95% occupied.

Scale model of Frontier Park 3 at Desa Cemerlang

“In the upcoming new launch, we are taking Frontier Park to a whole new level with our Business Concept. We believe it will transform the workplace to be more collaborative and dynamic”.

Other than its amenities like clubhouse-like cafe, Sheltered Arena and Activity Deck for organised events, the park is equipped with 24-hour CCTV surveillance, security patrol and anti-climb fencing around its boundary on top of integrated security system that alerts on detection of intruders, ensuring a safe working environment for operators.

An additional worker’s dormitory is also ready and will start its operation by the first quarter of next year. - by Norfy Shafeq TI

MATRADE Aims to Increase Exports from Johor

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alaysia External Trade Development C o r p o r a t i o n ( M AT R A D E ) h a d organised an Export Day, Johor edition at Persada Convention Centre, Johor Bahru as another initiative to get more local businesses involved in exporting their products and services by raising awareness among small medium enterprises.

Officiated by Menteri Besar Johor Datuk Dr Sahruddin Haji Jamal, the event was jointly-organised with the state government for the first time. Also present were State International

Trade, Investment and Utilities Committee chairman, Jimmy Puah Wee Tse, State Legal Advisor of Johor, Ishak Bin Sahari, Haji A. Rahim Haji Nin, State Financial Officer of Johor, Haji Azmi Rohani, State Secretary of Johor and Sharmahton Mat Saleh, Deputy CEO of MATRADE. Organised by MATRADE for second time this year, the export day was first launched in Terengganu back in March, 2019. Programmes in the day included a series of business talks and success sharing sessions regarding Malaysia exports. Among the topics that were put forward are opportunities to access the

ASEAN and China’s market, product export opportunities and halal services and MATRADE facilities for Malaysian businesses.

Participants were also briefed comprehensively about Bumiputera Export Development Programme, Women and Youth (BWEYEDP), eTRADE Programme, Marketing Development Grant (MDG) and Service Export Fund by MATRADE. A committee was also established to coordinate all Malaysia’s export promotional activities known as JK-Eksport (Export Committee) in hope to synergise the ministry and all

involving government agencies as well as optimising the impact of export promotions for the nation. JKEksport would be the platform to collect data and information sharing specialising in market intelligence.

Menteri Besar Johor Datuk Dr Sahruddin Jamal The initiatives visiting a booth at the Johor edition of Export and efforts were Day 2019 launched on 9th October 2019 to align with as well.

Interested parties could Wawasan Kemakmuran Bersama 2030 (shared prosperity vision register as members of MATRADE 2030) to materialise SDG - at www.matrade.gov.my - by Norfy Sustainable Development Goals Shafeq TI

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Preparing Iskandar Puteri for the Future with Blockchain Village at Medini

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he first for Malaysia and through a collective effort by the Johor state government and Khazanah Nasional Berhad’s i2M Ventures Sdn Bhd, Blockchain Village at Medini, stylised as BVAM, has officially launched at Medini, Iskandar Puteri, Johor to support the growth of Blockchain ecosystem in Malaysia.

BVAM as presented

by Zulfiqar Zainuddin, Managing Director of i2M, aims to develop the blockchain ecosystem in Medini City, to enable blockchain service providers, including established institutions, blockchain start-ups and stakeholders the platform to further develop their technology and to encourage market adoption. It will serve as the central hub to promote the

blockchain technology in the country, drive innovation and develop the required talent for this emerging sector.

Officiating the launch is Johor Menteri Besar Datuk Dr Sahruddin Haji Jamal who said that BVAM will help achieve several of Johor’s strategic intents especially in the development of Johor’s ten year sustainable development plan for the

Own a Home at MAPEX 2019 This November

REHDA Johor committee from left, Stanley Saw, K.K. Wong, Andrew Tan Yee Seong, REHDA Johor chairman Datuk Steve Chong Yoon On, Datuk Hoe Mee Ling, Chin Kuie Too and Kenny Koh during the second MAPEX 2019 press conference

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eal Estate and Housing Developers Association (REHDA) Johor, a branch of national body to promote and coordinate its members’ activities in the development of land and construction of residential, commercial and industrial buildings held their press conference for the upcoming Malaysia Property Expo (MAPEX) 2019 at the REHDA Office in Taman Tasek.

Attending the press conference were REHDA Johor chairman Datuk Steve

Chong Yoon On, Datuk Hoe Mee Ling, Andrew Tan Yee Seong, K.K. Wong, Kenny Koh, Stanley Saw and Chin Kuie Too. MAPEX 2019 has seen a grand number of RM4.6bil for their April 2019’s expo where 5,265 units of homes were offered by 33 developers.

Landed homes is still the most popular choice from Johor home buyers followed by serviced apartments and shop houses where RM1.525bil worth of properties sold, totaling to a

2,362 units sold from January to October 2019 made of 1,409 incomplete units and 983 completed units.

The Home Ownership Campaign (HOC) 2019 was getting a lot of positive response since it was officially announced by the Minister of Finance in January 2019.

REHDA Johor since then had taken their HOC initiative for Johor Edition by launching MAPEX Johor 2019 in April; officiated by State Exco Committee Chairman for Housing, Communication and Multimedia, Sr. Dzulkefly Ahmad.

The 2nd Johor MAPEX edition 2019 would see more than 11,600 units of homes offered by approximately 30 developers that are ready to serve and talk to you for property ownership.

The upcoming MAPEX 2019 would be held at City Square Johor Bahru from 1st – 3rd November, 2019, from 10am to 10pm. by Norfy Shafeq TI

creation of High Value, High Technology and High Impact Economy.

Supported by Iskandar Investment Berhad (IIB), K hazanah-linked companies and close to 50 stakeholders from the industry, BVAM is projected to bring in 1,200 jobs and RM562million of revenue by 2022. BVAM will also support organisations that are interested to adopt

blockchain for their business through workshops, forums in order to expand the benefits of blockchain to the Malaysian market.

The launch also welcomed Singapore’s Blockon Ventures Sdn Bhd as an aggregator, Nexuslabs Sdn Bhd and iCycle Malaysia Sdn Bhd as two new blockchains into Medini.

Japanese OK

Blockchain company during the launch had held a graduation ceremony for 107 new employees selected from 6 different public universities who had undergone their job training as a part of GBS Iskandar’s Campus Connect Initiative to meet the goals of developing talents and making them available for the blockchain system. - by Norfy Shafeq TI

One°15 Marina Puteri Harbour Hosts JBCCCI Networking Dinner 2019

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ne°15 Marina Puteri Harbour Sales Gallery transformed into the perfect venue for Johor Chinese Chamber of Commerce & Industry (JBCCCI) to host their Networking Dinner night for businessmen to mingle and network.

Attended by 165 pax from over 40 Trade Association Representatives and Members of JBCCCI, the session had assembled Chinese businessmen in Johor Bahru to mingle and exchange news with each other while also expanding their network of both personal and on a business level.

Established since 1945, JBCCCI has been serving as a non-profit organisation and acts as an important advocate of the Johor Bahru business community for more than 73 years. JBCCCI caters to a variety of community services to benefit its members, such as assisting them with trade enquiries, endorsing certificate of origin, organising trade and industry events, as well as promoting trade and investment missions overseas for broader business networking.

President of JBCCCI, Low Kueck Shin relayed his opening speech followed by the main backbones of JBCCI; the Johor Interior Designers’ Association (JIDA), Southern College University and Yomeishu among others. Attendees then got an exclusive preview of One°15 Marina Puteri Harbour’s properties and membership that were

President of JBCCCI and One°15 Marina Puteri Harbour’s General Manager, Brian Werner

available upon invitation only.

Brian Werner, General Manager of ONE°15 Marina Puteri Harbour said it was a great pleasure to host JBCCCI’s important networking session and said, “We are looking to get more business chambers around Johor Bahru to make ONE°15 Marina as their preferred venues to hold any functions”.

ONE°15 Marina Puteri Harbour offers membership of lifestyle privileges with a true waterfront living with exclusive access to all ONE°15 Marinas worldwide, providing extensive network of affiliate and associate clubs spanning 23 cities across the world.

Enquiries on corporate and individual memberships could be made directly at their Sales Gallery or via online at https:// www.one15marina.com/puteriharbour/ membership/ . - by Norfy Shafeq TI

Create@ Alibaba Cloud Startup Contest Found Its Johor Winner

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fter its launch for the first time ever held in Johor back in September 2019, Create@ Alibaba Cloud Startup Contest (Create@ Alibaba Contest) has found its Johor winner that would contest against Kuala Lumpur’s counterpart before they could represent Malaysia to compete in what is considered as the Olympic of start-ups pitching in China, held in mid of November, 2019.

Petfed Technology Sdn Bhd, presenting its Pet Care Platform was named the champion for Johor’s pitching session, followed by first runner up, Eurekaism Sdn Bhd - Minimo Tech and second Runner Up, Zeroo Sdn Bhd, both are apps development platforms.

The startups were handpicked

by national and internationallyrenowned judges Allen Chen, CEO of Cross Academy, Wang Jie, Cofounder of Cross Academy, K. Wan Jie, Founder and CEO of Zhejiang Zeqiao Company, Rafe Azsnal, HOD of Digital Ecosystem, Lai Zhu, Director of Jingdong Equity Crowd Funding Investment and Andrew Tan, Managing Partner of ThinkBig Ventures Sdn Bhd Ching, and Director of Finsource Sdn Bhd. Exco Jimmy Puah Wee Tse, Chairman of International Trade, Investment and Utilities Committee was the guest of honour and he encourages even more local startups in Johor to materialise their dreams by using these international platforms like Create@ Alibaba Contest, citing

every small ideas starts with a dream. “The Johor government is very excited about this (Create@ Alibaba Contest) project and we hope that we could do a tie-up with Alibaba and hopefully to have their innovation centre here in Johor.” “ I’m o p t i m i s t i c t h at Johor have the right ecosystem to become a startup hub for high value and high tech thing to come,” he added in the hope of Johor to become the next Hangzhou for its work in developing startups.

In addition to the hopeful innovation centre, Michael Chang from BIGWHEEL Seedbank, the organiser of Creat@ Alibaba Contest in Johor said, “In relation to this Alibaba innovation centre,

(From left) Teo Kok Ann, IHZ International founder, Michael Chang, BigWheel Founder giving a token of appreciation to Jimmy Puah, Chairman of International Trade, Investment and Utilities Committee and Allen Lee, Secretariat of HuaZong Multimedia and Information

there are a total of 56 innovation centres in China and this would

be the first centre to be placed in Malaysia”. - by Norfy Shafeq TI

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Ramada By Wyndham Meridin - Mah Sing’s Venture into the Hospitality Sector

Crown Records Management Make a New Addition in Iskandar Puteri Johor

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Mah Sing Group Berhad officially opens the largest Ramada by Wyndham Meridin in South East Asia 4-star Hotel offering 644 rooms

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amada by W y n d h a m Meridin features 644 rooms, which is the largest in South East Asia in room counts under the Wyndham brand. With its close proximity to various tourism destinations such as LEGOLAND Malaysia Resort, Puteri Harbour, Mall of Medini, and even Johor Premium Outlets, Ramada by Wyndham will

become a favourite among tourists.

To celebrate the grand opening of Ramada

by Wyndham Meridin, the occasion was graced by the presence of Datuk Dr Sahruddin Jamal, Menteri Besar of Johor, and Liow Cai Tung, Tourism, Women Family, and Community Development chairman.

Also in attendance, Mah Sing founder and Group Managing Director,

Launch gimmick completed by MB Datuk Dr Sahruddin placing the letter A at the end of RAMADA

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Tan Sri Dato’ Sri Leong Hoy Kum, Datuk Ho Hon Sang, Mah Sing CEO, Benjamin Ong, Mah Sing COO, as well as Wyndham Hotels & Resorts President and Managing Director of South East Asia and Pacific Rim, Ooi Joon Aun along with the senior management team of Mah sing and Wyndham Hotels & Resorts.

Commenting on the latest milestone by Mah Sing, Tan Sri Dato’ Sri Leong Hoy Kum said, “The grand opening of the Ramada by Wyndham Meridin marks another significant milestone for us. It gives me great honour to be here officiating Mah Sing’s first hotel, the centerpiece of our development in Meridin Medini, Iskandar Puteri, Johor.” - by Harish Mustak TI

rown Worldwide Group, world’s largest private group of international relocation, logistics and related services companies, officially launched their new Crown Records Management facility in SiLC, Iskandar Puteri, Johor. Founder and Chairman of Crown Worldwide Group, James E. Thompson was present for the launching along with Ken Madrid, Group CEO of Crown Worldwide Group and Leon Hulme, Managing Director of Crown Worldwide Group Malaysia together with stakeholders from an extensive range of industries.

First landed in Malaysia in 1974, Crown Worldwide is one of the leading suppliers of records’ management services in the country, and today, the Crown Records Management business in Malaysia stores and manages business records including

(From Left) Ken Madrid, Group CEO of Crown Worldwide Group, Founder and Chairman of Crown Worldwide Group, James E. Thompson and Ken Madrid, Group CEO of Crown Worldwide Group cutting ribbon to commemorate the launch of Crown Records Management’s facility in Iskandar Puteri

electronic files and media for over 1800 corporate customers in various sectors ranging from financial services, manufacturing to public sector and healthcare.

The new facility adds to Crown Worldwide’s six facilities in Malaysia that is spread across Shah Alam, Enstek, Penang, Kota Kinabalu, Kuching and Johor. 2,600m2 of land has been covered to build the facility for its first phase and it could store approximately over 4 million car tons of customers’ documents.

T h e facility in Iskandar Puteri James, Ken and Leon posing at the lobby of is a world-class the facility records centre,

with innovative features like thermal skin surrounding the building to protect the contents against heat and humidity naturally, natural airflow system inside the facility, keeping it cool without the need of potentially damaging air cooling machine, a radiant heat barrier roof, rain water harvesting tanks, 24hour infrared motion detection camera surveillance and onsite security, all at the highest standards a data-storing facility could achieve. The architect of the facility, Eric Kang from Arkitek LLA Sdn Bhd is based in KL and has previously designed the facility in KL and Penang.

For more information on Crown Records Management’s services in Malaysia, visit www. crownrms.com.my or contact +603 5636 9166. - by Norfy Shafeq TI

Axis-REIT to Buy a Building for RM65mil Cash

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xis Real E s t a t e Investment Trust (REIT)

has proposed to acquire an industrial building within Pelabuhan Tanjung

Pelepas, Johor, for RM65mil cash.

In its filings with Bursa Malaysia,

Axis-REIT said the proposed acquisition of the proper ty, comprising a single-

storey warehousecum-office building together with ancillary buildings,

would be accretive to its distributable income. - by The Iskandarian TI

Tripartite Partnership for Sustainable Seaports Johor Port Authority, MIGHT, and TNB Energy Services implements Sustainable Energy Programme (SEP) at Johor seaport involving key technology applications

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he Johor Port Authority (JPA), Malaysian IndustryGovernment group for High Technology (MIGHT) – and agency under the Prime Minister’s Department, and Tenaga Nasional Berhad Energy Services Sdn Bhd (TNBES) had signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Sustainable Energy

MoU signed and exchanged

Programmes (SEP) to be implemented at Johor Seaports.

Held in conjunction with the launch of Johor Port Conference 2019 and witnessed by the Transport Minister (MOT), Loke Siew Fook, the MoU spells out the partnership that the three parties will undertake in the effort to promote SEP. This initiative

involves the implementation of key technology applications such as solar PV, Energy Efficiency (EE), and integration with Energy Management System of MAUVI for port and industrial tenants within the port ecosystem.

This is in line with the theme of the conference this year that is “Fostering the Wave of Digitalisation”.

Speaking at the event,” Loke commented, “Today ports in Malaysia are facing two fundamental challenges to remain relevant and to be at the forefront of global competition.

One, is the creation of sufficient infrastructure capacity, either hard infrastructure like land roads and equipment or soft infrastructure especially human

resource. Second, is how ports are adopting and transforming towards digitalisation, automation and sustainable development, all encompassed within the Smart Port concept. The speed with which ports adapt to these changes will determine their success story.”

Loke reassured the industry that MOT remains fully committed towards ports in Malaysia and a few initiatives was taken including the setting up of various working level committees, such as the national logistics task force and the National Shipping and Port Council. In addition, new policy decisions have been adopted in order to make doing business at Malaysian ports easier.

One of the most significant decisions made by the government

was on the removal of the need for approved or import permits and licenses imposed on 54 goods stated under the First Schedule, Customs (Prohibition of Imports) Order 2017 in Full Container load (FCL) containers that are on transshipment at Malaysia ports, mainly Port Klang and Port of Tanjung Pelepas.

Johor Port authority has taken many efforts in driving digitalisation initiatives in Johor and one of the initiatives is eGateway, the community based electronic marine single window system to facilitate ship and cargo clearance. The collaborative efforts on the digital agenda between all stakeholders will greatly facilitate conducting business in the ports here in Johor. - by Harish Mustak TI

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Keck Seng Group Launches Phase 2 Of Its Second Largest Township

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onvenience is the keyword in purchasing a new home and with that Keck Seng Group has launched its Phase 2 (Adenia) of the development of Sapphire Hills, located in Bandar Baru Kangkar Pulai (BBKP).

BBKP, Keck Seng Group’s second largest township is located

approximately four kilometers from the new interchange at Pulai Jaya connecting to the Second Link Highway, Iskandar Puteri, and Singapore. The township also meets the Skudai-Pontian Highway, a convenient route to Taman Universiti, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, Senai Airport, Johor Premium Outlets, and many more.

A new vibrant commercial centre will also be built in the vicinity.

All units are 22x70 with a built-up of 1833 sqf, and designed with a colonial-style facade facing the Serene Hilltop Nature Park.

Pink Fiesta, was the launch’s theme that carried the message of Breast Cancer Awareness. During

the event, Keck Seng Group had partnered with KPJ Hospital to offer free health screening and also hosted vendors from their highend F&B outlet at TD Point, Taman Daya.

Pink Fiesta brought a special rebate to purchase Adenia that day.

Homebuyers received free legal fees, free disbursement of SPA, free stamp duty and

Green Badge for the Buildings in Iskandar Malaysia

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ore buildings in Iskandar Malaysia has been certified as Green Buildings according to ‘Comprehensive Assessment System for Built Environment Efficient’ (CASBEE), an assessment tool that covers 6 criteria - Indoor Environment, Quality of Services, Outdoor Environment, Energy, Resources & Materials and Off-site Environment.

Nong Chik Institute and Johor Port Authority (LPJ) were the latest to be documented as Green Buildings in Iskandar Malaysia at the CASBEE Training Workshop which module were a collaboration and organised by the Johor State Government via JSIC together with Iskandar Regional Development Authorit y (IRDA), the Sustainable Energy Development Authority (SEDA Malaysia) under the Green Technology Application for the Development of Low Carbon Cities (GTALCC), Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) Low Carbon Asian Research Centre,

and the Institute for Building Environment and Energy Conservation (IBEC), Japan.

Tan Chen Choon, the Johor State Exco Chairman for Local Government, Urban Wellbeing and Environment said, “Collaboration is the key in implementing ‘green’ initiatives such as CASBEE. The completion of these new CASBEE Iskandar projects signals the successful transfer of expert knowledge and technologies from Japan to Johor, hence the initiative is listed as one of the main priorities to be carried out under the Johor Low Carbon Council (JLCC),” after witnessing the handover of the ‘CASBEE Iskandar’ report from IRDA to

Johor State Investment Centre (JSIC).

Johor State Exco for International Trade, Investment and Utilities, Jimmy Puah was also present and added that CASBEE tool is very important in promoting low carbon and green economy development not only in Iskandar Malaysia but also Johor, hoping it can continue to promote and attract more green investments and industries into Johor.

IRDA will continue to work with IBEC Japan and the UTM Low Carbon Asia Research Centre to promote the CASBEE Iskandar activities to spread all over Johor and extend it to nationwide. - by Norfy Shafeq TI

they only needed to place a deposit of RM1000.

To enquire more about their offerings,

contact the Proper ty Gallery at 07-5271935 or visit www.keckseng.com - by Salamahafifi TI

Soaring Voice at KPRJ-HOPE Adopted School Cultural Festival 2019

K A group photo of VIPs and the CASBEE Training Module participants

Phase 2 (Adenia) in Bandar Baru Kangkar Pulai in construction

umpulan Prasarana Rakyat Johor (KPRJ) together with Jabatan Agama Islam Negeri Johor (JAINJ) had jointly-organised a cultural festival for schools that are adopted under their wing as an extension of its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) namely ‘Festival Sekolah Agama Angkat KPRJ-HOPE 2019’ (SAKJ Fest) at Dewan Besar Pusat Islam Iskandar Johor, Johor Bahru.

A total of 6 schools that came from Johor Bahru, Ulu Tiram, Masai and Muar had participated in the 3 categories of contest namely Kompang, nasyid performance and public speaking involving 156 students.

The festival also held an awarding ceremony for the schools under 6 categories; Zero absence, KAFA evaluation, Best Standard Six (SDEA), Special Standard Six (SDKA), Best KPRJ-HOPE 2019 school and Champion to all Festival Sekolah Agama Angkat KPRJ-HOPE 2019.

Officiated by Exco Haji Aminolhuda Bin Hj Hassan, Chairman of Johor Education, Human Resource, Science and Technology Committee, he has also announced an addition amount of RM1.6mil by the state government for 240 Johor KAFA teachers that initially were reported to be disqualified from getting the state’s allowance due to short period of

teaching. Effective next year in 2020, a total number of 2,090 KAFA teachers would be getting the benefit of the allowance provided by the state government.

Aminolhuda congratulated KPRJ for its ongoing effort under the state government’s government-linked company (GLC) for their CSR in discovering and unearthing talent among children of the schools that they have adopted.

Also in attendance was KPRJ’s CEO, Haji Mohd Noorazam Haji Osman.

He remarked that as the main contractor for public religion school development (SAKJ), KPRJ has taken a proactive step to continue giving the involved schools comfortable amenities and more. - by Norfy Shafeq TI

Festival closing ceremony officiated by Exco Haji Aminolhuda

Mall of Medini Re-Launches With New and Exciting Anchor Tenants New Anchor tenants B.I.G and VRinity to bring new life to Mall of Medini in preparation of Visit Johor 2020

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joint venture between UEM Sunrise Berhad (UEM Sunr ise), one of Malaysia’s leading property developers, and Iskandar Investment Berhad (IIB), will be sporting a fresh and exciting new look with the addition of two new anchor tenants – a gourmet supermarket and a virtual reality centre at the Mall of Medini in Iskandar Puteri, Johor.

Anchor tenant B en’s Independent Grocer (B.I.G) will have its sixth supermarket and the first outside of Klang Valley.

B.I.G offers the finest and freshest ingredients from all over the world so that Johoreans and weekend shoppers from Singapore can explore and expand their taste buds. They can also experience a complete grocery adventure through an impressive array of specialised ingredient themed sections like Barn Butchery, Bay Seafood, B.Organic and Malay Kitchen.

Together with B.I.G, Korea’s largest telecommunications operator KT Corporation has also launched VRinity - A Virtual

Reality Centre of Excellence.

It offers 5,000 square feet of fully immersive gaming centre equipped with the best virtual reality ( VR) technologies from Korea including motion platforms, racing simulators and VR touch experience.

UEM Sunr ise B er had Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer Anwar Syahrin Abdul Ajib said as the master developer of Iskandar Puteri, UEM Sunrise will continue adding value to Johor by making things exciting for Mall of Medini visitors

and the community.

“In re-launching Mall of Medini with a fresh new look, fun and interactive activities; a variety of shopping facilities and a wide range of experiences will be on offer. We are also hoping to play our part in the Johor government and Tourism Johor’s efforts to attract more visitors and to achieve their target of 8.4 million tourists for Visit Johor 2020,” he added.

To make Mall of Medini a cce s s i b l e fo r co m m u te r s between Malaysia and Singapore, bus operator Causeway Link has

Johor Exco Jimmy Puah during a walkabout at B.I.G

launched its new cross-border route via the Second link. - by Moazan Emran TI

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