Southern Property

SOUTHERN PROPERTYStarSpecial

THE STAR Thursday 30 January 2014

Quality developments, prime locations > 10 The new pulse of Johor Baru > 22

Rise of the south

2 SOUTHERN PROPERTY StarSpecial, Thursday 30 January 2014

RENOWNED property developer Vision Chart Sdn Bhd’s latest value-for-money

offering is situated in Taman Seri Bertam. Taman Seri Bertam is located along the road that connects to the Sungai Udang and Ayer Keroh Expressway.

The show unit has been completed and is now open for public viewing.

According to Yau Tak Wooi, director of Vision Chart, Taman Seri Bertam consists of 1,000 units of mixed residential development and the units from Phase 1 to Phase 4 have already been sold out. The fifth and final phase of the development consists of double-storey terraces.

Priced from RM255,000 onwards and with a huge built-up area of up to 1,720sq ft, Taman

Seri Bertam is arguably the biggest bargain in Malacca. Other than the contemporary and luxurious façade, every unit comes with four bedrooms and three bathrooms. All bedrooms are attached to a bathroom.

The land area is 20ft x 70ft and is well connected via major roads and offers residents contemporary designs and greenery in a hidden oasis that is just a stone’s throw away from the historical Malacca city centre.

The high elevation of the land means that there is no risk of flooding and residents can enjoy living in comfort and security.

The show units are open for viewing daily from 9am to 5pm. Interested parties can contact 06-335 8939 or e-mail [email protected]

Contemporary living in Taman Seri Bertam

An artist’s impression of the residental development at Taman Seri Bertam.

The stylish interior of the residental development at Taman Seri Bertam.

THERE is a shroud of uncertainty hovering over the horizon in the coming

year. New rulings on the Real Property Gains Tax will likely stem overzealous buying, tightening loan regulations will promote cautious borrowing, confusion about the upcoming goods and services tax (GST) will bring about some purchasing pause and many property investors are lamenting the loss of incentives such as the developer interest bearing scheme (DIBS).

All this has brought about a 50-50 outlook about the year ahead from most property market soothsayers, whose opinions are split between buyers adopting a wait-and-see attitude or choosing to go on bullish buying sprees before price hikes (if any) take effect.

Despite this ambiguous market scenario, the powers-that-be behind Malaysia’s largest-ever economic development endeavour, Iskandar Malaysia, remain confident about attracting sizeable investments over the next 12 months. And property investment consultants agree, pointing at Iskandar’s current momentum, the favourable attention it has received from Budget 2014, its strategically sustainable location and its comprehensive long-term growth plan.

Late last year, the Iskandar Regional Development Authority (IRDA) announced that the economic corridor in southern Johor managed to amass some investments worth RM21bil, marking an improved year-on-year figure over the past four years.

Buoyed by this, IRDA chief executive Datuk Ismail Ibrahim said that Iskandar Malaysia will now look to secure a higher investment target of RM22bil this year, and that this figure is likely to grow on a year-on-year basis in

Positive momentum to propel Iskandar forward

accounting for 65% of total investments received.

Boosting investor confidence this year will be the opening of the Legoland water theme park and hotel, the expansion of the Johor Premium Outlets, the launching of the Primework Studios as well as several new projects focused on education, tourism and health care sectors.

These come as timely additions as the country is poised to roll out the red carpet for Visit Malaysia Year 2014. This fact will have astute property investors zeroing-in on potentials in the tourism and hospitality sectors, as well as the numerous spill over commercial developments that will be seeking to exploit this advantage.

Fuelling future potential

However, investment gurus are quick to point out that the “Visit Malaysia impetus” is a short-term one, and most investors are likely to be putting their chips on the fact that Iskandar Malaysia has

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the foreseeable future.“We have targeted investments

worth RM383bil by 2025. Beginning this year, we will be able to receive an average of between RM20bil and RM22bil,“ Ismail told Bernama.

Interestingly, he pointed out that this positive outlook is being spurred by heightened local investments, as more and more Malaysian companies are buying into the vision and potential of Iskandar.

Initially, about 55% of investments that flowed into Iskandar came from foreign entities, while domestic investments amounted to 45%. But there is now a clear shift in trend, with domestic investments

StarSpecial, Thursday 30 January 2014 SOUTHERN PROPERTY 3

Johor Premium Outlets.


SET in the heart of Iskandar Johor is Capital City – a RM2.2bil project that is a

collaborative effort involving developers Hatten Group Sdn Bhd, Sunbuild Development Sdn Bhd and Gadang Holdings Bhd.

Iskandar is a city that is growing at a rapid pace and it is larger than two of Asia’s investment hubs – Singapore and Hong Kong – combined. Due to the constant development in the Iskandar region, the number of tourist arrivals is also expected to increase in the coming years.

Capital City is the answer to cater to these increased numbers of tourists. Located in Flagship A of Iskandar, it is a development that epitomises urban lifestyles. Capital City is unique because of its integrated mixed development in the area. It spans across 14 acres of land and encompasses two hotel blocks, three SOHO loft residential blocks and a one-of-a-kind, 1 million sq ft retail-concept mall called Capital 21. Of the two hotels, one will be managed by the Hatten Group while the other hotel wil be run by a well-known international hotel chain.

Capital City is conveniently located 13 minutes from the Johor Baru city centre and is just 20 minutes from Singapore. Its prime location also makes accessing famous tourist hotspots in the region, including the Legoland Theme Park and the Hello Kitty Theme Park a breeze.

Capital City’s strategic location has it connected to all major highways granting easy access in and out of it. The development is also equipped with an array of facilities like 24-hour security surveillance and valet parking for its residents and guests. The development also has more than 5,000 parking bays to accommodate the large crowds that it will attract. With this coveted property, investors can be assured of high-potential growth.

A mall like no other

Capital 21, the new mall located within Capital City, is set to become the most iconic megamall in the country and will provide visitors with a shopping experience that is second to none. Its name is derived from 21 prominent landmarks, cities and countries from across the world, including Hawaii, Los Angeles, Las Vegas, Niagara Falls, Washington, Madrid, Paris, Milan, Amsterdam, Stockholm, Athens, Istanbul, Cairo, Dubai, New Delhi, Singapore, Hong Kong, Shanghai, Seoul, Sydney and Switzerland.

This state-of-the-art mall consists of six thematic shopping floors – Venice, the United States, Europe, Oceania, Asia and Africa. The Venice floor provides shoppers with a blissful shopping experience with its picturesque waterways. Shoppers can even take a ride with their loved ones on the gondolas, making their shopping experience more memorable.

The United States floor offers shoppers the hippest and coolest fashion trends in the market today. The United States floor will also have a number of al fresco

Making a mark in IskandarExperience the world in one placeTHE sales launch for Capital 21 that was held last month featured five capitals in the show gallery – Tokyo, Amsterdam, Switzerland, Hong Kong and Madrid. This launch enabled the guests to get a glimpse of what they can expect when the mall is completed in 2018.

The launch allowed guests to experience what it would be like to see a bullfighter in action in Madrid. They were also able to get a taste of what it would be like to sample deliciously fresh sushi from the sushi counters in Tokyo.

Iconic landmarks from across the world such as Harrods of London, the fashionable streets of Hong Kong and French architecture in Paris at the sales launch allowed guests to experience first-hand a preview of what is to come from the unique Capital 21 mall. Capital 21 has received an overwhelming response from guests and investors so far. Interested parties can call 017-309 1399 or visit www.capitalcity.com.my for more information.

dining outlets where visitors can enjoy a nice meal and watch the world go by. The Europe floor will present shoppers with the finest luxury couture. It will also have a hypermarket and al fresco dining outlets.

The Oceania floor will consist of a public theatre where visitors

will get to see a variety of performances. This floor will also have a hypermarket.

At the Asia level, shoppers will be spoilt for choice with the many retail outlets offering chic and high street fashion trends from South Korea and Hong Kong. To delight the children as their

parents shop, this floor will also have an outlet that will allow them to express their creativity and pretend to be adults.

A day of shopping can build up a huge appetite and this is when shoppers can head to the African floor and savour a feast of delicacies from around the world at the Safari food court. After a hearty meal, shoppers can head to the cinema that will be located on this level.

Visitors will be able to experience the many offerings of the world in just one setting and without the need to travel a thousand miles away.

Each area has been designed meticulously and is infused with exclusive design ideas and architectural concepts from across the world to stir emotions of past travels or the feel of touring the world.

As shopping is most enjoyable when one is abroad, Capital 21 provides its shoppers with the

overseas travel experience and the ability to travel from one country to another with just a short walk across the mall.

Visitors will be spoilt for choice when it comes to retail outlets and after a day of retail therapy, they will be able to treat themselves to sumptuous gourmet delicacies available from the many al-fresco and indoor food outlets available in Capital 21. The food outlets have been designed to suit all budgets.

The landmark of Capital 21 will be the World Museum, an international tourist attraction that will feature interactive displays of five continents – The Americas, Asia, Australia, Europe and Africa.

For those interested in setting up a business at the Capital 21 mall, there are a total of 1,200 retail lots available for sale. The size of these units range from 120sq ft to 5,000sq ft and prices from these units start at RM400,000.

An artist’s impression of Capital City.

The Madrid capital at last month‚s sales launch.

An artist‘s impression of the Asia floor.

StarSpecial 5Thursday 30 January 2014


FOR decades Malaysia has been home to people of various races and cultures. It is only

natural that cultural districts such as Chinatown and Little India in Petaling Street and Brickfields, respectively, have become well-known tourist attractions.

Soon, Malaysia will have a “Little Japan” of its own thanks to developer Berinda Properties (Kuok Group) and Global Asia Assets (M) Sdn Bhd (GAAM). GAAM is a consulting company that builds assets for Japanese investors. To date, GAAM has helped more than 500 Japanese people acquire property and live in Johor Baru.

GAAM announced in 2012 that they will be developing the RM500mil Little Japan in Taman Molek and Taman Ponderosa in Johor Baru together with Berinda Properties (Kuok Group). The properties being developed are Molek Pine Tower 3, Molek Pine Tower 4, Molek Pulai and Ponderosa Lakeside apartments.

Molek Pine Towers 3 and 4 have a combined total of 508 units with 36 of those being low-rise units. Tower 3’s high-rise units have all been sold. The low-rise units are valued from RM1.275mil to RM1.412mil and are 2,127sq ft to 3,189sq ft in size. Tower 4, on the other hand, has its units going from RM944,000 to RM4.777mil and come in sizes 1,441sq ft to 5,791sq ft.

Molek Pulai units are priced from RM574,000 to RM961,000 and are 941sq ft to 1,415sq ft in size. Ponderosa Lakeside’s 120 units are priced from RM606,000 to RM2.488mil and are between 1,300sq ft and 3,759sq ft.

Green living

Interestingly Molek Pine Tower 4 achieved platinum status in the Green Building Index (GBI) rating, which is the highest that a building can achieve. The GBI, according to Greenbuildingindex.org, is an industry-recognised green rating tool for buildings to promote sustainability in the built environment in Malaysia. It is also to raise awareness among developers, architects, engineers, planners, designers, contractors and the public about environmental issues as well as the public’s responsibility to future generations.

The GBI rating tool gives developers and building owners an opportunity to plan and

Malaysia’s own Little Japan

The award-winning Towership in Taman Molek.

The onsen and jacuzzi at Little Japan.

construct sustainable and green buildings. Buildings that are certified under the GBI are closely situated to public transport, able to provide energy and water savings, and have a healthy indoor environment.

Lim Sung Heng, sales general manager of Berinda Properties, says that Molek Pine Tower 4 is the first high-rise building in Malaysia to be awarded

Platinum in the Green Building Index rating.

“A lot of things have to be taken into consideration to achieve the highest GBI rating, even the type of paint used to paint the walls matter,” he continues.

He also says that all the Molek Pine Tower 3 units have already been sold while Molek Pine Tower 4 is expected to be completed at the end of this year.

Temperatures at Molek Pine Tower 4 are cooler because of the cross-stack ventilation system, which is the idea of Berinda Properties group managing director/CEO Frank Goon. Goon roughly designed the cross-stack ventilation system in 1982 while he was on a flight. After about 30 years, Berinda Properties’ architects turned Goon’s sketches into something tangible and practical. Residents will not need to turn their air conditioning on the whole day to beat the heat as there will be a constant breeze the whole day thanks to the cross-stack ventilation system that Goon envisioned.

“Molek Pine Tower 4 has a building area (site coverage) of

only 30% and the rest is greenery. The area is also a low-density area with only 40 units per acre. Most apartment projects are built 200 units per acre,” says Lim.

Japanese ambience

“With regards to the area being a Little Japan, the luxury apartments as well as the units will feature as many Japanese facilities as possible,” says Lim.

There will also be onsens, which are traditional Japanese bathing facilities. In the Japanese language, onsen is a term for hot springs.

“The onsens will be made to closely resemble the ones that can be found in Japan. We want the Japanese residents to feel comfortable and at home with these facilities,” says Lim.

The individual units will also feature Japanese bath tubs and washlets.

Lim adds that ponds with Japanese koi fishes will be installed to add to the ambience.

The residents of Molek apartments do not have to travel far for amenities such as

banks, restaurants, clinics and supermarkets as the main street in Molek are known as the Wall Street of Johor Baru because of the 17 local and international banks that are situated there.

The Japanese residents are also expected to start their own businesses within the area. “We can expect to see more Japanese bakeries, restaurants and supermarkets, which will add to the culture of Little Japan,” says Lim.

According to Migratemalaysia.com, the Japanese, Chinese, Iranians and British were the top nationalities that joined the Malaysia My Second Home programme. The Japanese enjoy the all year round warm and sunny weather here. Another pull factor for the Japanese to want to move to Johor Baru is its closeness to Singapore. This allows them to experience two different countries during their stay.

It is going to be exciting to see this Little Japan develop into a rich cultural residential area and it will also be a good opportunity for Malaysians to learn about Japanese culture.The gymnasium.



INCORPORATED in 1979 and listed on the Main Board of Bursa Malaysia in 1992,

Tropicana is one of the fastest growing property developers in Malaysia. Now, with diversified business interests, including property and resort development, property investment, manufacturing and investment holding, Tropicana leads the Malaysian property market.

Tropicana revolutionised the property market when it designed the 625-acre Tropicana Golf & Country Resort in 1992, housing Malaysia’s largest and award-winning clubhouse. The pioneering concept of resort-themed development meant that landed homes and condominiums did not have to wallow in a sea of sameness any longer.

Since then, many of Tropicana’s subsequent developments proudly carry the Tropicana brand in their names and the Tropicana DNA in their concepts. Driven by the success formula of resort-style concepts, Tropicana went on to develop Tropicana Indah Resort Homes, Tropicana City and other successful projects around the Klang Valley.

That vision continues today with its multi award-winning portfolio of residential, office and retail developments, which invests significantly in landscaping, recreational facilities and creating a vibrant environment for the whole family.

The group is now expanding its horizons across the Klang Valley, Johor and Penang, leveraging on its land bank of more than 2,200 acres (890ha), which has a future gross domestic value of RM80bil, and group assets of RM2.1bil. It is still committed to its original vision of delivering living concepts that ensure a better quality of life for all.

Today, 90% of the group’s revenue is generated by its property development, resort operations, property investment and land trading.

Last year, the group achieved RM2.17bil in sales, its highest sales record in its history. It is the latest property developer in Malaysia to achieve market capitalisation in excess of RM1.2bil.

Tropicana has expanded its horizons across the Klang Valley to Johor and Penang, while still remaining committed to its original vision of delivering living concepts that ensure a better quality of life for the community.

In keeping with its growth strategies, the group continues to explore new frontiers and high potential business opportunities to include retail and office spaces, land trading, hospitality and

TROPICANA Corporation Berhad has garnered many prestigious awards throughout its many years as a leading property developer in Malaysia:

2010 - Tropicana Golf & Country Resort named Best Gold Development with 5-star rating in Malasia, and Best Golf Development 2011 in Asia Pacific by International Property Awards in association with Bloomberg Television

2011 – Casa Indah 1 condos win Best Medium-High cost Apartment Award by Dream Home Award

– Tropicana Grande golf-fronted condominiums awarded Best Residential High-rise development with 5-star rating in Malaysia and Best Residential High-rise Development in Asia Pacific by International Property Awards in association with Bloomberg Television

2012 – Tropicana Corporation Berhad awarded BCI Asia Top 10 Developers Award 2012 by BCI Asia Awards

– Pool Villas 3-storey semi-ds received Best Multiple Units Development (Highly Commended) Award in Malaysia by Asia Pacific

Property Awards in association with HSBC Bank Malaysia and the Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors Asia

– Arnica Residence, Tropicana Gardens named Property of the Year by PropertyTalk & Lifestyle Group Malaysia

– Tropicana Metropark named Best Development Masterplan of the Year by PropertyTalk & Lifestyle Group Malaysia

2013 – Tropicana Corporation Berhad awarded BCI Top 10 Developers Award 2013 by BCI Asia Awards

– Tropicana Metropark awarded 5-star rating for Best Mixed Use

Development Award at the Pacific Property Awards 2013

• Tropicana Corporation Berhad awarded Power Brand Award 2013 for Organisation, Management and Brand Management

• Tan Sri Danny Tan awarded Lifetime Achievement Award for Excellence in Resort & Property Developement at the World Chinese Economic Forum 2013 by the Asian Strategy & Leadership Institute

• Tropicana Corporation Berhad awarded The BrandLaureate Brand Icon Leadership Award 2013

Award-winning developer

Tropicana Macalister.Leaders in property market

education. It is also fast expanding its geographical reach, with new developments in the Klang Valley, Penang, Johor and Sabah.

Here are its signature developments across Malaysia:

North and east Malaysial Penang WorldCityl Tropicana 218 Macalisterl Tropicana Bay Residencesl Tropicana Landmark

Central l Tropicana Metroparkl Tropicana Heightsl Tropicana Avenuel Tropicana Gardensl Tropicana Cherasl Tropicana Grandel Tropicana Indahl Tropicana Golf & Country Resort

Southl Tropicana Danga Bayl Tropicana Danga Covel Tropicana City Centre

Tropicana Metropark Waterfront.

CERTIFIED



AS a pioneer in resort-style home concepts, Tropicana Corporation Berhad’s

impressive track record is largely a result of its strategy of offering premium locations, innovative building concepts and resort-styled living to customers.

“Overall, we are highly encouraged by the good progress the group is making in accelerating project launches and realising the value of our landbank.

“Recent launches have seen favourable response, reflecting strong market interest towards our lifestyle-oriented and market driven products.

“Last year, we achieved record new sales of RM2.17bil, and we remain confident of chalking up robust new sales this year. We will continue to focus on cutting-edge concepts for our ever-growing portfolio. With our expertise in integrated residential, office, retail and hotel developments, we aim to further expand the market reach of our Group across the country and beyond,” says Tan Sri Datuk Danny Tan, group executive vice-chairman of Tropicana Corporation Berhad

In recent years, Tropicana has widened its geographical scope beyond central and northern Malaysia to the southern region.

These are its current projects in Iskandar Malaysia, Johor:

Tropicana Danga Bay

Tropicana Danga Bay is an ambitious and exciting development jointly developed with Iskandar Waterfront Sdn Bhd. It aims to transform the 450-acre (182ha) Danga Bay into a dazzling waterfront city within the burgeoning Iskandar Malaysia region in Johor.

Located within Zone A (Johor Baru city centre) of Iskandar

Quality developments, choice locations

Malaysia, Tropicana Danga Bay is just a five minutes’ drive to Johor Baru city centre and 10 minutes’ drive to Singapore via the Johor-Singapore Causeway.

This dynamic RM8.3bil project spans 37 acres (14.97ha) of freehold land and offers a holistic blend of upscale lifestyle properties, along with exclusive commercial blocks, a luxury destination shopping mall and retail space with a proposed international-grade hotel and convention centre.

The first phase, Tropez Residences, is fully sold. Bora Residences is the second phase and is now open for sale. There is a choice of sizes ranging from 694sq ft to a 3,443sq ft penthouse. This phase will also host eight acres of

recreational facilities and water features amidst lush greenery.

Tropicana City Centre

Spread over 22 acres of freehold land, Tropicana City Centre is an RM5bil project with a comprehensive mix of lifestyle properties comprising serviced residences, SOHOs, an office tower, hotel, retail boulevard and F&B hub.

The development is located within Zone A (Johor Baru City Centre) in Iskandar Malaysia. Tropicana City Centre is surrounded by malls and amenities, including Danga City Mall, JB City Square, banks and local government offices.

Its first phase, the 7.95-acre

(3.2ha) Veridian Residences, is targeted for launch in October this year. It comprises serviced residences in four towers. Unit sizes range from 550sq ft to 1,900sq ft penthouses.

Tropicana Danga Cove

Jointly developed with Iskandar Waterfront Sdn Bhd, Tropicana Danga Cove’s 227 acres in Bandar Baru Kota Puteri will be developed into a vibrant mix of commercial, modern residential and trendy retail outlets. It is targeted to become the new central lifestyle hub in the eastern corridor of Iskandar Malaysia. The development is located 10 minutes from the city and is nestled within a matured residential community

with magnificent views of the Straits of Tebrau and Singapore.

Its first phase is Oasis, a 38-acre (15.37ha) freehold commercial business hub comprising some 350 units of modern contemporary shop offices. Oasis has a gross development value of RM600mil.

Oasis is situated between Pasir Gudang Highway and the East Coast Highway. It enjoys excellent accessibility via the Eastern Dispersal Link (EDL), which connects it to JB City Centre and CIQ all the way to the port area of Pasir Gudang.

Existing and new and upcoming high rise residential developments in the immediate surroundings will also provide Oasis with ample business traffic. With the overwhelming response of Oasis 1, Oasis 2 is now open for sale.

For enquiries please call:Tropicana Danga Bay: 07-234 1585 Tropicana City Centre: 07-2357 888Tropicana Danga Cove: 07-3863 888

Tan Sri Datuk Danny Tan, group executive vice-chairman of Tropicana Corporation Berhad.

Tropicana Danga Bay.

An artist‘s impression of Tropicana City Centre.

The Blooming of New GrowthInvest in Iskandar Malaysia’s emerging hub in the eastern corridor.OASIS 2 offers potential growth and opportunities for multitudebusiness trade ranging from retail andoffice spaces, F&B, hospitalityand education sectors catering to the surrounding matured andgrowing residential and commercial districts.With the overwhelmingresponse for OASIS 1, OASIS 2 is now...

Open For Sale!For Enquiries +607 386 3888

www.tropicanadangacove.com

A Joint-Venture Development BetweenTropicana Danga Cove Sdn. Bhd. 935993-W

G-03, Block A, Permas Mall, No.3, Jalan Permas Utara, Bandar Baru Permas Jaya, 81750 Masai, Johor, Malaysia.Sales Gallery Opening Hours Mon–Fri, 9am–6pm; Sat–Sun, 10am–6pm.F +607 386 8188 GPS Coordinate N 1° 29’ 48.3756” E 103° 49’ 1.9236”

All information contained herein (including specifications, plan measurements and illustrations) are subject to amendments, variations and modificationswithout notifications as may be required by the relevant authorities or developer’s consultants and is not intended to form and cannot form part of an offerand contract, Whilst every reasonable care has been taken in preparing this information, the developer cannot be held liable for any variation or inaccuracy.

FREEHOLD3 & 4-Storey Shop OfficesIn Johor Bahru

Modern DesignWithMezzanineFloor & Private lift

EasternDispersalLink

15mins to CIQ& JB City Centre

ComprehensiveSpace

Additional Land& Double Frontage

SpaciousLot Sizes24�× 70�26�× 70�32�× 70�

Artist’s Impression of Oasis 2 development within Tropicana Danga Cove

Ready Catchment of500,000 Population

A vibrant investmentin a 39-acre business hub



UDA Holdings Berhad was established by the Malaysian government in 1971 as the

Urban Development Authority (UDA). It was given responsibility to promote planned urban developments and to elevate Bumiputera participation in urban areas.

The company was corporatised in 1996 and later became UDA Holdings Sdn Bhd before it was listed on the Kuala Lumpur Stock Exchange in 1999.

Today, UDA has been privatised as a company owned by the Ministry of Finance Incorporated. The company is currently exploring new products and services to meet the needs of both the community and its shareholders.

UDA Land (South) Sdn Bhd, which is wholly owned by UDA Holdings Bhd, drives property development projects in Johor and is responsible for developing Bandar Baru UDA, Tampoi Urban Centre, UDA Business Centre and Bandar UDA Utama.

Its latest project, Trigon, is the last piece of commercial development in UDA Business Centre. It offers a total of 20 units of three- and four-storey shop-office with private lifts for the four-storey type.

Trigon is strategically located next to Tampoi Urban Centre, which is easily accessible by Skudai Highway on Batu 4½.

Designed with modern architecture, the business centre will serve as a prime business venue for business owners and investors.

Amenities and facilities within a 1km radius from the business centre development are:l Giant Hypermarketl Mydin martl Maybank, Bank Islam, CIMB and RHB Bankl Jakel Silk Storel Plaza Angsanal Food courts and restaurantsl Fast food chain restaurants

Although it is located within a matured township, there is still much potential for business growth within the development. UDA Business Centre will eventually become an independent township with commercial and residential development components. It is poised to open up new investment opportunities, and receive good capital appreciation and high rental gains.

UDA Land is also planning to build a high-end, 31-storey service apartment called Madeira Riverside, located within UDA Business Centre. It is expected to be launched in the fourth quarter this year. UDA Land has recently opened registration for the upcoming Madeira Riverside development.

Investment opportunity

Development of the entire UDA Business Centre is intended to attract financial institutions, banks, budget hotels, cafes and restaurants, franchises and boutiques with its great entrepreneurship opportunities.

There has been tremendous

return on investments so far as the selling price of the new development is moving upwards. In fact, all 123 units of the earlier phase of UDA Business Centre have been sold out.

As part of UDA’s vision to become a leader in sustainable property development, UDA Business Centre is being developed as an integrated township that is linked to Tampoi Urban Centre.

Modern and prime business centre set for high gains

UDA Heights, a 21-acre (8.5ha) freehold development, consists of 28 units of double storey bungalows. It is located in Bandar UDA Utama, Johor, about a 30-minute drive from the heart of Singapore.

There are three types of bungalows available in the development and home buyers have the opportunity to choose one of the three design concepts – Marquise Villa with a garden concept, Victorian Villa with a pond concept and Baguette Villa with a pool concept.

Each home comes with seven or eight bedrooms, and bathrooms fitted with quality furnishings and modern designs.

The built-up area ranges from 3,812sq ft to 4,204sq ft and the houses are on lots sized between 7,750sq ft and 10,158sq ft.

UDA Heights is located next to other prominent residential developments and is adjacent to the Malaysia-Singapore 2nd Link Highway.

This residential area has easy access to all the services and amenities a family needs, including:l Tesco, Giant, Aeon Big l Maybank, Public Bank, CIMB,

RHB Bankl Horizon Hills Golf & Country Clubl Legoland Malaysial Puteri Harbourl Fast food chainsl Omega International Schooll Matahari International Schooll Sekolah Menengah Bandar UDA Utamal Sekolah Rendah Kebangsaan Cina Kuo Kuang 2l Sekolah Rendah Agama Taman Perling

Many choices for home buyers

Specifications of UDA Heights developmentUnits2-storey bungalows (28 units)

PriceFrom RM2.3mil

Lot size80ft x 100ft

Floor area4,204sq ft

Specifications of Trigon developmentUnitsl 12 units of 3-storey shop officel 8 units of 3-storey shop office with private lifts

Pricel 3-storey unit from RM1.8mill 4-storey unit from RM2.4mil

Lot sizesl 3-storey shop office: 24ft x 75ft l 4-storey shop office: 26ft x 75ft

Floor areal 3-storey shop office: 4,464sq ftl 4-storey shop office: 6,007sq ft

Trigon is strategically located next to Tampoi Urban Centre.

UDA Heights Bunglow Type C.

UDA Heights Bunglow Type B.

UDA Heights Bunglow Type A.



THE I&P Group was formed in May 2009 after the successful merger and rationalisation

exercise involving three companies: Island & Peninsular Sdn Bhd, Petaling Garden Sdn Bhd and Pelangi Sdn Bhd.

The new entity, now known as I&P Group Sdn Bhd, is a wholly owned subsidiary of Permodalan Nasional Berhad (PNB). The I&P Group has always been recognised as one of the few leading developers in Malaysia that has vast experience and an impeccable track record in the property business.

This has further established the deep-rooted and well-founded strength of the company in total township development while elevating it as a top property player in Malaysia. This credential is supported not only by its excellent track record, but also by the fact that it has maintained its place in The Edge Top 10 Developers Award for 11 consecutive years as well as having won the inaugural The Edge-PEPS Award for Value Creation Excellence for two years in a row in 2010 and 2011.

Last year, The Edge-PEPS Award for Value Creation Excellence judges awarded Phase Temasya Suria of Temasya Glenmarie, Shah Alam, as the Merit winner for the residential category.

The I&P Group has been developing townships and its track record in completion, delivery, timeliness and quality over the years has garnered appeal, loyalty and confidence in its products.

Some key and current numbers provide a reflection of the group’s integrity and credence as a developer that is here to stay. To date, I&P has successfully carried out development on a total of 7,400 acres (2,994ha) of land with 4,600 acres (1,861ha) yet to be developed, making a total acreage of 12,000 acres (4,856ha).

Upon full completion of the 12,000 acres (4,856ha), I&P anticipates delivering approximately 102,300 homes to Malaysians with a total expected population of 511,500.

In the future, I&P anticipates achieving a total gross development value of RM30.68bil on the remaining 4,600 acres.

The principles of the I&P Group has always remained the same from day one: the

Tomorrow’s townships for today’s quality living

Completed unit. Mock-up unit.

Generous living space and built-up area starting from 2,726sq ft.

A playground for countless hours of family fun.

development of whole townships and the nurturing of wholesome communities.

Over the years, this vision has guided the group to maintain its focus and commitment by growing expertise and cultivating a value system that equates business profits with the joy of living.

Taman Perling

First developed in 1981, Taman Perling was an unused land across the historic Sungai Danga that has now become a much sought-after address in Johor Baru. Today, Taman Perling covers 922 acres (373ha) of prime freehold land, and is linked to Johor’s new administration centre in Bandar Nusajaya via its modern highway, making it one of the most popular developments within Iskandar Malaysia.

The township is directly linked to the ports of Pasir Gudang and Tanjung Pelepas, making it a bustling township full of opportunities. Public transportation is also a convenience enjoyed by many

residents and students studying at a hospitality institute nearby, while Legoland, EduCity and the Hello Kitty family theme park are a mere five minutes away via the Iskandar Coastal Highway.

Amenities are abundant as the town matures.

Business and financial centres, schools, police stations, markets, shopping complexes, art and music schools, galleries, eateries and places of worship have mushroomed.

D’Serambi – the darling of Taman Perling

Amid today’s skycrapers and futuristic building designs that are void of natural settings, D’Serambi offers discerning residents a living sanctuary in perfect harmony with its natural surroundings.

Nestled in a self-contained yet vibrant community, residents of D’Serambi have the privilege of living in a gated and guarded precinct.

The I&P Group’s township portfolio Johor Barul Taman Pelangi l Taman Perling l Taman Rinting l Taman Pelangi Indah l Taman Industri Jaya

Selangorl Bandar Kinrara, Puchong l Alam Impian, Shah Alam l Temasya Glenmarie, Shah Alam l Alam Sari, Kajang l Bayuemas, Klang

Kuala Lumpurl Seri Beringin, Bukit Damansaral Bandar Baru Seri Petaling l Alam Damai, Cheras l Alam Sutera, Bukit Jalil l Menara I&P, Bukit Damansara

Emphasising wellness, health and community, the homes are ideal for growing families that want to enjoy a lifestyle of leisure among the unspoilt flora and fauna.

D‚Serambi features a new

contemporary two-storey terrace homes with sleek lines and practical functionality to match the picturesque environment. With generous living spaces from 2,726sq ft onwards and an abundance of tropical foliage, every day will be filled with awe-inspiring views and a never-ending discovery of Mother Nature.

n For more information, visit www.inp.my



Luxury homes with nature at heart

There is a fully equipped signature clubhouse, designed by Argentinean architect Ernestor Bedmar, to cater exclusively for residents of Horizon Hills.

A self-contained township set in a lush, gated environment, Horizon Hills combines the

best in architectural innovation, master planning and landscape design. This gated integrated residential township in Iskandar Malaysia is 1,200 acres (485ha) of paradise and is jointly developed by Gamuda Land and UEM Sunrise Bhd.

Located in Nusajaya, the jewel in the crown of Iskandar Malaysia, Horizon Hills is surrounded by catalyst developments including the Johor State New Administrative Centre, Puteri Harbour Indoor Theme Park, Legoland, Pinewood Iskandar Malaysia Studio, Educity, Healthpark and the Southern Industrial and Logistic Cluster Nusajaya.

It is also strategically located 25 minutes from the JB Causeway and 15 minutes from the Tuas Link via the coastal highway.

Horizon Hills comprises luxury homes that are designed amid the natural undulating hilly terrains of forest reserves and an 18-hole designer golf course that will put one in harmony with nature.

There are five different phases – The Gateway, The Golf, The Hills, The Greens and The Canal Garden – that have been launched and 80% of these developments are now occupied.

The D’Suites Condominium that was launched last September offers more than eight unit types with built-up areas ranging from 628sq ft to 2,421sq ft. These condominiums also offer impressive views of the golf course and the Legoland theme park.

Holistic living

Horizon Hills strives to enrich the lives of its residents by exceeding their expectations and committing to values that enrich their lives.

The innovative designs of its townships and developments are designed to complement nature to meet world-class standards of sustainability that will result in long-term holistic living solutions.

Horizon Hills offers residents a unique lifestyle experience with its nature-themed neighbourhoods.

D’ Suites Condominium

STRATEGICALLY located close to the Horizon Hills clubhouse, overlooking the award-winning golf course and the Legoland theme park, D’Suites boasts full condominium facilities and unique landscaped designs including a maze garden and sunken lawn water features.

D’Suites offers an excellent choice of units in eight different layouts spread across three blocks. Prices are from RM780 per sq ft and the unit sizes include:

l Studios at 628sq ft l 1+1 bedroom apartment at 845sq ftl 3-bedroom apartment at 1,058sq ftl 3+1 bedroom apartment at 1,472sq ftl Penthouses from 1,942sq ft - 2,521sq ft

The Cove Precinct

The Cove is a new phase and consists of link, cluster and semi-detached houses and bungalows. The Cove is surrounded by a lake providing residents with a tranquil lakeside lifestyle. It is expected to be launched in the first quarter of this year.

The choice of landed homes includes:

l two-storey link houses l two- and three-storey cluster homesl two- and three-storey semi-detached homes

The Valley West Precinct

The Valley West Precinct is set against a lush backdrop of woodlands and golf greens and is made up entirely of two-storey link houses.

The Hills Precinct

At the heart of Horizon Hills is The Hills Precinct. This exclusive precinct consists of split-level designer two- and three-storey bungalows that offer residents a 270° panoramic view of the fairway.

Designed by Australian architect Ross Watson, the golf course is home to Iskandar Johor Open, which it hosted from 2010 to 2013. This year’s tournament will also take place here.

As healthy living environments play a vital role in one’s well-being, Horizon Hills employs world-class experts who maintain its on-going environmental preservation efforts. Horizon Hills upholds the integrity of a natural ecosystem by providing its residents with surroundings and features that are designed to encourage them to enjoy the beauty of the outdoors.

Horizon Hills is made up of 11 different residential precincts, each unique in its own natural setting and features

With security constantly being an issue in Malaysia, Horizon Hills has addressed this through its

developments that are planned to ensure the safety of its residents in every aspect.

Horizon Hills was awarded The EDGE-PEPS Value Creation Excellence award in 2012 for sustaining the highest property value appreciation — up to 200% — within five years. This award certainly serves as a testament to Horizon Hills as a premier residential development.

The 18-hole, par 72 designer golf course blends into the preserved landscape and complements the homes beautifully.



Modern homes, green neighbourhoodLOCATED in one of the

economic flagship zones of Iskandar Malaysia and

within the matured Permas Jaya Township of Bandar Baru Permas Jaya, The Straits View Residences is a new development fronting the Straits of Johor. It is easily accessible via the Eastern Dispersal Link (EDL), coastal highway and 2nd Permas Bridge. The Straits View Residences is approximately a 10-minute drive from the Woodlands CIQ in Singapore.

The Straits View Residences is nestled within 35.2 acres (14.2ha) of freehold land and is a low- density residential area that has only six homes per acre of land with a total of 218 homes.

The development features two- and two-and-a-half storey semi-detached homes and exclusive bungalows within a 24-hour gated and guarded premier community. It is surrounded by 35 acres (14.1ha) of lush landscaping with recreational spaces and an award-winning clubhouse.

Phases 5 and 6 are now open for sale with limited units left.

Concept

The Straits View Residences is the epitome of modern housing, being cocooned by lush greenery rarely found in developing cities. All the units in this development are rectilinear. This means all the units face north or south.

The exclusive clubhouse has a full range of facilities that include an infinity pool, children’s pool, gym, barbecue area, sauna, children’s play area, café, convenience store, multi-purpose room and games room among others. These conveniences ensure that residents need not leave the township in search of such

The Straits View Residences semi-detached house.

The Straits View Residence clubhouse features many facilities including a pool.

amenities.The Straits View Residences is

the first strata parcel development with exclusive clubhouse facilities that is governed by the Strata Title Act within Johor Baru city. Each home is designed in such a way that it can accommodate four cars within its compound.

The homes have unique features, like the double volume living and dining area oriented towards a view of the garden that allows abundant natural light to penetrate the house, with breezes providing cross ventilation.

This development is also within

walking distance of established commercial avenues and a golf course within Bandar Baru Permas Jaya. Families with young children can roam freely and safely along the streets and footpaths within the development, which are monitored 24 hours a day by strategically located CCTVs.

All homes employ an open concept without front fencing, giving a spacious and open feeling throughout the neighbourhood. Other than that, high-speed broadband-ready fibre optic cabling is offered for installation.

Big windows are

complemented by shades to shield occupants from the Malaysian heat. Simple lines incorporated in the design of the houses ensure a timeless appearance that in turn assures that the property will be a good long-term investment.

Great living

Landscaped gardens, tree-lined streets and wide green spaces all contribute to the design direction of the township. Vertical green walls with creeping plants on mesh screens have been put up around the neighbourhood to emphasise green living.

A green lung in the form of a forest grove provides fresh, regenerative goodness for all

the residents of this exclusive community.

Landscaped pocket parks with walkways ensure safe pedestrian activity throughout the neighbourhood. Also contributing to the eco-friendly theme is the water harvesting system installed in every home. This system harvests rain from roofs and uses the water collected to irrigate the gardens.

The serene, calm and inviting ambience of the neighbourhood ensures resort style living with all the practicality of a modern neighbourhood.

n For more information, please contact 07-387 1333 or visit www.thestraitsview.com.my

The Straits View Residence Bungalow master bedroom.

The Straits View Residence features spacious living and dining areas.

The Straits View Residences Clubhouse.

Specifications of The Straits View ResidencesBuilt-up area l Bungalows from 5,525sq ft to 7,384sq ftl Semi-detached homes from 3,385 sq ft to 4,653 sq ft

Price range l Bungalows from RM3.788mill Semi-detached homes from RM1.738mil



SITUATED in the booming metropolis of Iskandar Malaysia, 1Medini provides

a retreat to urban comfort and conveniences. This is the first residential condominium in Medini, offering residents top-notch amenities and facilities. Its strategic location allows residents to achieve a unique balance of live, work and play.

WCT, the real estate developer of the highly successful 1Medini, will soon unveil a premier development in the city of Iskandar that combines the pleasures of working and living – the 1Medini Garden Villas.

The 1Medini Garden Villas comprises 18 semi-detached exclusive villas that are located at the top of a commercial block. The villas have their own private garden outside, allowing residents to relax and be one with nature after a stressful day at the office while taking in the spectacular sights of the city of Iskandar down below.

From the beginning, the design of the 1Medini Garden Villas was to move away from the typical apartment layout. The 1Medini Garden Villas were designed and developed to extend the living area to make it more spacious and airy. Each unit also has a path linking it to its private garden.

Security and privacy of residents are of utmost importance and because of this, only residents are allowed to enter the private housing level through a private lift that only serves this level. With the private garden, the Garden Villas seems to appear like a regular semi-detached housing development. What sets the Garden Villas apart from a regular semi-detached housing development is its location at the top of a commercial block drowning out the noise of the traffic from down below and a high level of security that a landed property would lack.

All 18 units of the 1Medini Garden Villas are served by only one corridor making it a double-loaded apartment. The corridors in typical double-loaded apartments will be closed and lack natural ventilation. As the 1Medini Garden Villas are designed to be semi-detached units, cross ventilation and natural lighting are maximised for each unit.

The corridor also has a small private green area, which will serve as a socialising hub for the residents of the 1Medini Garden Villas.

With family being the focal point, the 1Medini Garden Villas units were designed to revolve around every day family living

Your garden in the sky

and bonding. Each unit has a living room, dining room and a kitchen with an elaborate finish to give the villa an exclusive and elegant look. The units have a minimum number of three bedrooms and a maximum number of four bedrooms. In several units, each room will open up to its own private garden.

All units come partially furnished and the kitchen is equipped with cabinets and a cooker with a hood and hob. All bedrooms have individual air-conditioning units and a spacious wardrobe while all bathrooms are fully equipped with water heaters.

The stylishly designed interiors and amenities of the 1Medini Garden Villa will surely delight residents.

The floors below the 1Medini Garden Villas will consist of retail lots, salons, mini marts, food and beverage chains as well as other specialty stores. With no sales restrictions to non-Malaysians and with no RM1mil threshold for Malaysians, the 1Medini Garden Villas are expected to attract both locals and foreigners alike when it is launched next month.

n For more information, visit www.wct.com.my

An artist’s impression of 1Medini Commercial Entrance.

An artist’s impression of 1Medini.The 1Medini Garden Villa.

Aerial view of WCT‘s developments in Medini.



SPANNING 330 acres (133.5ha) of the last large tract of urban development land

within flagship Zone A (Johor Baru City Centre) of Iskandar Malaysia, Southkey is designed to be a modern urban lifestyle development and the new pulse of Johor Baru. The master plan has been meticulously revised by GDP Architects, a reputable and well-known Malaysian master planner and architect, to create an unlimited flexible environment that suits both current and future needs of the community. Additionally, the proposed largest shopping mall in southern Malaysia, Mid Valley Southkey Megamall, and the proposed 18-acre (7.3ha) central park will be another focal point of Southkey.Southkey is served by the Tebrau Highway, Jalan Bakar Batu and Eastern Dispersal Link (EDL) that connects directly to the North-South Highway and the Sultan Iskandar Customs, Immigration and Quarantine (CIQ). It is also only a four-minute drive from the CIQ. Jalan Bakar Batu is currently being upgraded from a two-lane to a six-lane road and the works are scheduled to be completed in the second half of this year.

JB’s newest and most desirable hotspot

Spread across 9.44 acres (3.8ha), Southkey Mosaic consists of boutique pods, four-storey shop offices and serviced residences. It is a convergence of accessibility, innovation and dynamic lifestyles just five minutes from the heart of Johor Baru and a mere stone’s throw away from the proposed Mid Valley Southkey Megamall.Southkey Mosaic has a total gross development value of RM676mil. Construction commenced in August last year and is scheduled to be completed in early 2017. Since the special preview that was held in April last year, response has been overwhelming and more than 90% of the serviced residences in Tower A have been sold, leaving only limited Bumiputra units for sale. Following this success, Tower B with a total of 292 units went on sale in October last year.

Where you fit right in

The elegantly designed Southkey Mosaic Serviced Residences comprises two tower blocks that have a total of 584 units. It is poised to live up to its potential as the balanced living hub where vibrancy thrives. It is

also set to be the location where residents live amid retail and F&B excitement, dynamic lifestyles, lively entertainment, exquisite architecture as well as pleasant greenery.The unit types range from designer suites (676sq ft to 758sq ft) to two and three bedroom (904sq ft to 1,131sq ft) units and four bedroom (1,465sq ft to 1,509sq ft) units. Show units at Southkey are now open for viewing.Residents of Southkey Mosaic Serviced Residences can relax at the recreational facilities podium

that has a large built-up area of more than 105,000sq ft (2.4 acres). Its facilities include a swimming pool, a children’s pool/kid’s splash pool, a Jacuzzi, a gymnasium, a par course, a reflexology path, a jogging track, a yoga deck, a game park, a children’s playground and an outdoor camping site, which is the first of its kind in a serviced residence in Malaysia. The sky lounge, formal dining room, barbecue deck and viewing deck are located on the highest floor of the tower blocks for those who want to have a party or a relaxing time with friends while

taking in the breathtaking view of the city. For convenient charging of environmentally friendly cars, a smart electric vehicle charging station is also available within the serviced residences.A multi-tiered security system that features 24-hour CCTV surveillance, a smart guard tour system, card access and a smart visitor control access system keep the premises secure.Potential purchasers can look forward to enjoying a special ownership package that includes:

l 6% rebatel Repeat buyer rebate (for Southkey LakefrontShop offices buyers)l Legal fees on sales and purchase agreement and loan agreement will be borne by the developerl Partly furnished interior package l 15% Bumiputra discount*Terms and conditions apply

n For more information, call 07–332 9988, 07–335 7373 or visit www.southkey.com.my

The new pulse of Johor Baru

A Chinese New Year event will be held on Feb 15 from 10am to 6pm at the Southkey Sales Gallery. There will be a lion dance performance by a world-champion title holder, 24 festive drum performances and an appearance by the God of Prosperity. There will be a giveaway of Samsung and Apple products worth up to RM9,800* for each purchase of Southkey’s serviced apartments. Don’t miss this opportunity. Come celebrate the Year of the Horse with Southkey. *Terms and conditions apply

An artist’s impression of Southkey.

The smart electric vehicle charging station.

The infinity pool. The one-of-a-kind outdoor camping site.



> From page 3

long-term economic potential. “It is important to remember

that Iskandar is an economic development region, and not simply a property hotspot. This means that it has been created to nurture industries that will help boost the Malaysian economy in the future. The result of this is growth in the employment sector, and of course, growth in the property sector,” said one real estate consultant speaking at the recently concluded Property Outlook Conference 2014 in Kuala Lumpur.

The most obvious and compelling argument for investing in Iskandar Malaysia has to be its strategically sustainable location as the southern gateway of the country and the fact that 221,634ha (2,217sq km) have been earmarked for investment from Singapore – a regional economic giant.

With commerce continuously expanding in the island nation and space quickly depleting, the southern tip of the Malaysian peninsula provides a natural solution for expansion of business operations and a cheaper residential alternative to skyrocketing house prices there. From Malaysia’s perspective, there is much to gain from the spill over business generated from one of the most important trading and financial hubs in South-East Asia.

All of this spells high appreciation potential for local investors looking to purchase properties in Iskandar Malaysia, and what makes the economic region particularly attractive is its 360-degree comprehensive investment offer that comprises a wide array of property types.

To provide clear investment options and focused business potentials to local and foreign investors, five flagship zones have been created representing varied opportunities in different geographical positions:l Flagship A encompasses

Johor Baru City, with an existing population of more than one million. Due to its proximity to the main Causeway, and the relatively lower cost of goods on this side of the border, it has been earmarked for developments centred on commerce and retail, financial services, arts and culture, hospitality and urban tourism, electrical and electronics (E&E) and food processing.

Key property players in

Steady economic growth down south

Flagship A include Danga Bay Holdings, Pelangi, Mah Sing Group and Crescendo.l Flagship B highlights

perhaps one of the most vital components of Iskandar Malaysia, Nusajaya, which comprises 24,000 acres (9,712ha) of contiguous development-ready land. It is one of the largest property developments in South-East Asia and it has been identified as the chief new growth centre of Iskandar, with the largest concentration of catalyst projects and a projected population growth of 500,000 by 2025.

Key players in Nusajaya are property developers such as UEM Land, Iskandar Investment Berhad, Mulpha International Bhd and SP Setia. l Flagship C is located within

the south-western region of Johor and covers an area of more than 30,000 acres. The key economic activities here are port and marine services, warehousing, logistics, engineering, hi-tech manufacturing, food production, petrochemical industry and entreport trade.

It currently boasts a logistics

centre, regional distribution centres, regional procurement centres and a power plant. However, its location close to the Second Link to Singapore gives it tremendous potential as a commercial and residential property hub, adding to its already established industrial property lure. l Flagship D on the south-

eastern coast of Johor is envisioned to be the main industrial and manufacturing hub of the south. Situated 30km east of Johor Baru, it covers some 31,132ha in the Pasir Gudang locale and comprises key components such as the Pasir Gudang Port, Pasir Gudang Industrial Park, Tanjung Langsat Port and Tanjung Langsat Industrial Complex.

Key economic activities are currently focused on heavy industries and logistics, including electrical and electronics (E&E), chemical, oleochemical, food and engineering-based industries as well as ports, logistics and warehousing. It also has the largest concentration of palm oil refining industries and downstream activities in the

world.To date, there are more than

300 factories in the Pasir Gudang area that have provided more than 30,000 employment opportunities to the community of 100,000 people.

While nothing is completely “downturn proof”, from the property investment perspective, the Iskandar Malaysia development strategy ensures a steady supply of investment by providing access to a number of growth subsectors. It is a plan that takes into consideration that investors may realign focus on different sectors in response to any market fluctuations.

This year, for example, market watchers say that if the residential market plateaus, many investors may focus on the industrial property as there has been steady economic growth in this arena. In such a scenario, properties in Flagship C and D will be worth investors’ attention.

Spanner in the works?

With regards to the housing market, however, real estate

consultants warn of a current trend that could potentially lead to oversupply.

Over the past 12 months a large majority of new launches in Iskandar Malaysia have been in the price segment of high-income purchasers, offering very few properties in the lower- to mid-income price range.

This means that approximately 80% of the properties on offer there are for 20% of the population.

That is a relatively small target group for a large number of properties, and once that target market is saturated, developers will be hard pressed to find tenants for these multi-million ringgit homes.

In addition, it makes better sense to create properties that attract people from a wide range of economic backgrounds when the aim of Iskandar Malaysia is to create a new economic engine for the nation.

The reasons for this are self-evident: it takes all walks of life to build a sustainable community. The economy needs high net-worth individuals and leaders, but it also needs executives, a strong blue collar workforce and baristas at Starbucks – all of whom need to live within an economically viable radius of commercial hubs.

Immediately, more needs to be done to attract young professionals and catalyse an influx of a fresh knowledge-based workforce. Typically, this means housing in the RM300psf to RM600psf range.

The good news is with more industrial and commercial projects coming on stream in Iskandar Malaysia, the demand for a workforce will inevitably heighten, and house prices will eventually have to trend in this direction to cater to it.

An artist’s impression of the Medini business district.

An artist’s impression of Pinewood Studios located in Iskandar Malaysia. Puteri Harbour offers a panaromic view of the Straits of Johor.

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