The Iskandarian E-Paper July 2020 by The Iskandarian-WAVES Lifestyle

KDN : PP19356/08/2018(034949) | Singapore MICA : MCI (P) 079/12/2019

Iskandar Malaysia’s Official Newspaper is an effort by True Soul Media PLT & Iskandar Regional Development Authority (IRDA)

Rebound Healthcare Travel Page 2

the ISSUE 95

JULY 2020

Accumulating Wealth Has the Bull Returned?

The Return of Home Ownership Campaign Page 21

www.facebook.com/theiskandarian

electricity bills. Business operators whose premises were shut during the MCO period were also left in shock by the high bills they received especially when there was no usage of electricity. TNB has clarified that the recent spike in the bills were due to more people staying at home, resulting in higher usage. TNB also insists that the bills are prorated @theISKANDARIAN

with Victor Gan, Chief Operating Officer Page 7

Take What You Need, Leave What You Can

portals, as well at the notice boards on site. Health clinics typically cater to patients who have appointments with specific departments such as dental, physiotherapy, occupational therapy, outpatient department and so on. This SOP is also now extended to include patients who are looking to follow up or reschedule appointments with specialist departments. The health clinics are also open for COVID-19 screenings (separately). “We have provided access to a number of QR codes on the many notice boards located around the health clinics as well as online. This is to shorten the waiting period by efficiently registering and rescheduling appointments prior to coming to the health clinic itself,” said Fahmi Sanusi, an Assistant Medical officer at the Mahmoodiah Health Clinic. - by Harish Mustak TI

Additional PRIHATIN Aid for Electricity

e had highlighted that during the implementation of the Movement Control Order (MCO), Tenaga Nasional Berhad (TNB) had suspended all its physical metre reading at premises. Even though manual metre readings have resumed since 15th May 2020 at certain areas, the public were left baffled by the exorbitant

Monthly Drill

Page 18

Health Clinics Only Open for Appointments and Screenings

ff late the social media has been constantly bombarded by COVID-19 news and other news either related to it directly or indirectly. However, certain viral or hot topics relating to current affairs have not been entirely true or false. The platforms of online news and social media posts have caused some confusion for people who are looking for solutions and answers to every day questions. One query in particular was whether patients who have appointments at government health clinics are allowed to follow up on their scheduled appointments. The answer is straightforward as the standard operating procedures in regards to following up and rescheduling appointments were communicated and implemented by the government health clinics since 21st May by way of social media. The SOPs were even announced before the post. Recently, there was some speculation regarding the situation at most health clinics whereby patients had to line up in a long and winding queue just to get into the health clinics. At some point, the bee-lines were said to be over pouring to the main roads especially on clinic days without any shelter that lead patients and the elderly. The government health clinics assured the patients that this issue can be resolved very simply by scanning the QR code provided on the social media platforms, or on the state health department online

hile times are tough due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Malaysians are pulling together to support communities with kindness and trust, giving old methods such as communal food pantries an innovative spin. The #AyamWithYou Food Pantry initiative, by Ayam Brand and 13 charity homes nationwide is working to help charities and to empower them to help surrounding communities that are need. In Pertubuhan Kebajikan Shafar, an orphanage in Kampung Pasir is leading the way for the local community by managing the #AyamWithYou pantry in this area where Ayam Brand provided them two months’ supply of their products for its residents, and suggested the food pantry or ‘gerobok rezeki’ as a solution for the community. The weather-proof food pantry is set up outside the charity home’s compound so that social distancing is observed. It is open to the public round-the-clock. Residents update the community about the food pantry through community groups on social media and messaging apps, while children from the home are responsible to top up the Ayam Brand products daily. Response to the initiative has been overwhelming with the daily allocation of Ayam Brand’s products such as tuna, baked beans, processed peas, canned

and will ensure accurate billing for each estimated monthly bill and customers will not be overcharged. Despite the assurance given by TNB, the public were still not satisfied of the high bills and as a result, the Prime Minister has approved Additional Electricity Assistance (Bantuan PRIHATIN Elektrik Tambahan) for all electricity consumers in the domestic category. This will help reduce the burdens of the public and will benefit at least 7.66 million consumers nationwide. 52.2% of domestic consumers with a monthly electricity bill of RM77 and below (300kWh usage) will enjoy free

www.linkedin.com/company/theiskandarian/

pineapples and coconut milk snapped up quickly, and other essentials being added, with strong support from the community. Through its long-running Corporate Social Responsibility programmes, Ayam Brand has contributed more than 2 million healthy meals for charity, providing nutritious food to more than 21,800 people from 524 charity organisations and NGOs over the past 12 years. The #AyamWithYou food pantry is located at No. 15, Jalan Limau, Kampung Pasir, 81200 Johor Bahru, Johor. Be part of the movement to receive or to give essentials. Find out more about the #AyamWithYou food pantry initiative, visit https://www.ayambrand.com.my. by Priya Manikam TI

electricity for April, May and June 2020. Whereas, those exceeding 300kWh will receive a total of RM231 electricity bill, i.e. RM77 per month for April, May and June 2020. According to the Minister of Energy and Natural Resources, Datuk Dr Shamsul Anuar Nasarah, those who have already paid their bills, the amount will be credited/adjusted in their July electricity bill. This extra aid is in addition to the electricity bill discount that was given since 1st April 2020 and is funded by the government through Kumpulan Wang Industri Elektrik (KWIE), the Ministry of Finance and TNB, costing RM942 million. - by Priya Manikam TI www.theiskandarian.com

THE ISKANDARIAN

ISSUE 95 | JULY 2020

SEND LETTERs or inquiries to facebook.com/theiskandarian editor@theiskandarian.com www.theiskandarian.com

Our Friends

Gleneagles MEDINI

“In The Arms Of One Who Cares”

NEWS

Step Up and Speak Out Against Cyberbullying and Harassment Suggesting supposed bill to overcome and counter sexual harassment to be tabled in parliament swiftly

o h o r ’s fo r m e r S t a t e To u r i s m , Women, Family and Community Development Exco, Liow Cai Tung condemned the recent rise of sexual harassment and cyberbullying that has resulted to the suicide of a young woman in Johor Bahru. The assemblywoman of Johor Jaya in her press statement said sexual harassment is a form of sexual action not only physically but also verbal towards a specific person and it should be condemned and taken seriously. “Taking action against sexual

harassment should not be restricted by the government or non-governmental organisations only. Support from family, friends and the community is also an important factor,” said Cai Tung. She also encourages family members and friends of sexual harassment or cyberbullying victims to help amplify the victims’ voice to avoid recurring event of tragedies. The abusive behaviour in cyberspace is mainly done by irresponsible social media users, and the lack of enforcement legal-wise has given the bullies a sense that they could escape responsibilities with concealed identity. Cai Tung calls for the government to prioritise the introduction of legislation in dealing with online sexual harassment citing the Public Service Department (JPA)’s Circular 5/2018, “Guidelines for Handling Sexual Harassment at

Johor Jaya assemblywoman, Liow Cai Tung Work” to protect victims of sexual harassment at work in 2018. In October 2019, Joint Action Group for Gender Equality (JAG) has drafted a guideline for anti-sexual harassment and memorandum to the previous government, which was led by former Deputy Prime Minister, Datuk Seri Dr. Wan Azizah Wan Ismail in which she has addressed that a Sexual Harassment Bill (RUU) that would protect

SOCSO and Ministry of Youth and Sports Provides Job Seeking Platforms Aiming to alleviate the difficulties among jobseekers to match skills and jobs while stimulating the economy

nstitute for Youth Research Malaysia (IYRES) through the Ministry of Youth and Sports has provided online job search platforms offering a variety of posts and tasks from both government and non-government agencies as a part of the government’s effort to empower the people under the Economic Recovery Plan (Penjana) which then will propel businesses and stimulate the economy. The platform aims to create jobs and opportunities for the youth that have been facing difficulties of losing and finding jobs during this COVID-19 pandemic. ‘GIG YOUTH X-POSE - (KBS-MDEC)’ aims to increase youth’s involvement in alternative jobs, be it part time or in periodical income-generating projects that will stimulate the economy. The ‘Gig Youth’ platform is for customers-driven works like food delivery, data entry of online forms,

conducting surveys while ‘Digital Freelance’ is offering jobs and tasks for the youth with academic qualifications and specific skills like web designing, content creator, content writer, editor, graphic designer and recruiter. SOCSO (Social Security Organisation) on the other hand is providing employment services through the EISJobs Employment Portal with its Employment Insurance System. The platform would also help identify employment gaps and in addition, registered job seekers will be continuously involved in participating in the Current Labour Market Programme including the Open Interview Programme Series and Employment Opportunity Programme by experts from various industries organised by SOCSO. PenjanaKerjaya, also under SOCSO is made available only for job seekers with a valid SOCSO account at Myfuturejobs portal. - by Norfy Shafeq TI

women’s rights and preserve respect for women which would’ve have been tabled in Parliament in March 2020. Cai Tung hopes for the Ministry of Women, Family and Community Development to prioritise sexual harassment cum cyberbullying issue of this nature, and to act on the bill swiftly as it would help protect victims and overturn the culture of gender inequality. - by Norfy Shafeq TI

Rebound Healthcare Travel Prior to COVID-19, Malaysia has played host to over 1.3 million healthcare travellers, achieving more than RM1.7 billion in hospital receipts in 2019 alone

he Malaysia Healthcare Travel Council (MHTC) we l co m e s t h e announcement by the Senior Minister (Security) Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob, on the Government’s decision to reopen the country’s international borders to healthcare travellers. This serves as a positive indicator for Malaysia’s economy as it marks a significant rebound for the healthcare travel industry. True to our recognition as the World’s Healthcare Marvel, Malaysia has played host to over 1.3 million healthcare travellers, achieving more than RM1.7 billion in hospital receipts in 2019 alone.

Although the pandemic has had a profound impact on the industry, patients and visitors’ safety has been and always will be top priority for all of us, especially within the healthcare sector. This allowance is further subjected to the approved stringent S t a n d a rd Operating Procedures (SOPs). These SOPs include, but are not limited to healthcare travellers registering with MHTC before travelling here for treatment. More information regarding these SOPs will be made available to the public once details have been finalised. Malaysia’s efficient management of the pandemic has seen a significant reduction in the number of cases. As the nation unites to recover from these trying times, MHTC will continue to showcase Malaysia Healthcare’s capabilities and strengths as a worldclass quality healthcare destination. - by The Iskandarian TI

Published by True Soul Media PLT [No.51-B, Jalan Impian Emas 5/1, Taman Impian Emas, 81300 Johor Bahru] Printed by 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.

ISSUE 95 | JULY 2020

THE ISKANDARIAN

NEWS

Singapore and Malaysia Borders Set to Open Soon

Malaysians braving the traffic across the Causeway to earn their livelihoods (photo by Kyaizee Mohd)

ith Malaysia’s Recovery Movement Control Order (RMCO) implemented from 10th June till the 31st of August, the fate of Malaysians going back to work in Singapore has been in question by many.

It is understood that following Singapore’s decision to reopen its economy following weeks-long “circuit breaker” (lockdown) which ended on 1st June 2020, Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob, Senior Minister for Security and Minister of Defence said Malaysians working in Singapore may

soon be allowed to resume commuting to and from Johor Bahru (JB). In a recent update by both Malaysia and Singapore governments, the Johor Causeway and the Second Link in Singapore is set to open soon in stages after being shut for the past three months. Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Hishammuddin Hussein said the reopening of the border would be divided into four categories where the first category is for professionals, including those in business, while the second category refers to Malaysians working and living in Singapore, estimated to be about 20,000 to 25,000 people. The third category comprises Malaysians working in Singapore who commute from Johor to the island republic on a daily basis numbering some 250,000, while the fourth category refers to citizens of Malaysia and Singapore in general. According to Singapore’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, both countries have agreed to establish a Reciprocal Green Lane (RGL) and a Periodic Commuting Arrangement (PCA) for different groups of travellers.

Travellers would have to adhere to a set of COVID-19 prevention and public health measures and practical measures are being discussed and will have to be mutually agreed upon by both countries. Meanwhile, in a separate travel news, Malaysia Airlines has increased its domestic and international connectivity beginning June and July respectively to facilitate essential travels locally and responding to other countries’ lifting of border restrictions. With interstate travel being allowed during the RMCO period, domestic flights in June and July will involve twice-weekly flights, involving the Kuala Lumpur- Alor Star/Johor Bahru/Kota Baru/Langkawi/ Terengganu/Labuan/Miri/Sandakan/Tawau routes, as well as a once a week flight for the Kuala Lumpur- Kuantan/Bintulu/Sibu routes. The Kuala Lumpur- Penang/Kuching route will provide three weekly flights in June, whilst the Kuala Lumpur - Kuching will provide five weekly flights in July. The flight schedules are available on Malaysia Airlines website - https://www. malaysiaairlines.com/my/en.html - by Priya Manikam TI

No More Foreign-Manned Stalls at Johor PBT Wet Market and Business Premises Local Councils are committed to prioritise locally manned business in premises within their jurisdiction

he Johor State Government through the State Housing and Local Government Committee chairman, Ayub Jamil’s press statement dated 5th June 2020 has announced the local councils (PBT) of Johor are ensuring no foreign-owned stalls and workers to be allowed in any markets and

premises under the state’s jurisdiction to help aid and prioritise locals businesses that are affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. Business licenses and permits issued by PBT in Johor can no longer be issued to non-citizens. All the state’s 16 PBTs are tasked to check the status of each current running business in all PBT’s premises and wet market in accordance with the hawkers’ bylaws of Johor. Stern actions await local business owners that have solicited in renting premises, extending their business license or permits to foreign citizens, and they risk their license being suspended and the revocation of their business premises ownership. This would also apply to locals that are legally married to foreign citizens;

whereby the spouse with the foreign citizenship is not allowed to own or run any businesses under PBT. The state government sees the situation of restricting the hiring of foreign labours as a solution to overcome the nation’s economic drainage. Much aggressive and extensive measure was taken to curb any reasoning by illegal foreign workers that avoided accountability of their employment at the PBT premise. This would also help detect and prosecute any individuals that are running illegal workers schemes. The public are welcome to tip off any information to the authorities on any sightings of foreign workers owning or working under PBT’s premises. - by Norfy Shafeq TI

State Housing and Local Government Committee chairman, Tuan Ayub Haji Jamil (Image courtesy of Ayub Jamil Rengit Facebook page)

Saving Private Education: PEEAM to Table a Recovery Proposal to the Government

n a bid to flatten the COVID-19 curve in the country and to stimulate the economy again, the Recovery Movement Control Order (RMCO) was implemented on 10th June till 31st August 2020 (at the time of writing). While the public schools have now opened for national and international exam candidates from 24th June 2020, the private education system from child care, preschool, and primary school to secondary are still hanging on to their hopes to reopen soon as well. The Private Education Entrepreneur

Association (PEEAM) together with education associations namely, Persatuan Pendidik Professional Bahasa Malaysia (PPPBM), Persatuan Tadika Swasta Petaling Perdana (PTSPP), Persatuan Tadika Islam Malaysia (PERTIM) and Persatuan Pengusaha Pendidikan Swasta Sabah (PPPSS) held an online Press Conference as an effort to propose a solution for the private education sector known as the Private Education Recovery Plan (PERP). PEEAM had tabled it to the government in the middle of June.

PERP aims to seek the government’s support to assist the private education sector on five main factors, namely financial assistance and incentives for education institutions, reopening of all education institutions and tax incentive for 10 years through the income exemption, recognising and regulating online learning programme and finally, Merging Taska and Tadika under one administration agency. The plan will represent the private education entrepreneurs on putting up their voices, needs and challenges

to the Ministry of Education based on the survey-based statistics from 1,125 respondents who are the operators of different education segments nationwide namely nurseries, kindergartens, tuition centres, enrichment programmes, homeschools, private schools and other private institutions. 67% of the private education operators responded in PEEAM’s survey that they could sustain for no longer than 3 months if their businesses remain closed, and they seek to open by July 2020. - by Norfy Shafeq TI

04 04

The Iskandarian ISSUE 95 | JULY 2020 Advertisement

THE ISKANDARIAN

ISSUE 95 | JULY 2020

NEWS

Nottingham University Business School Champions Global Compact Network Malaysia’s #mySPACE4Change Sustainability Initiative

ottingham University Business School (NUBS) Malaysia is proud to be a champion of the #mySPACE4Change initiative aimed at accelerating sustainable solutions launched on 9th June 2020 by Global Compact Network Malaysia (GCMY), the official local network of the United Nations Global Compact (UNGC) at the Malaysian Houses of Parliament. Officiated by Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Parliament of Malaysia, Dato’ Haji Mohd Rashid bin Hasnon, the initiative establishes the largest private-sector enabled and corporate social responsibility (CSR) driven national multimedia platform in Malaysia. The platform aims to promote the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development through public service announcements by partner creative agencies. NUBS Malaysia has had a long-standing working relationship with GCMY. In October 2019, Director of Research, Associate

Professor Mohan V. Avvari moderated a panel discussion on ‘Realising the Value of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) – The ROI of Good Business’ at a GCMY ‘SDG Insight Series’ event, also held at the Malaysian Houses of Parliament. More recently, in May 2020, the Business School and GCMY jointly hosted a webinar featuring NUBS Honorary Professor of Sustainable Business, Tim Gocher, who spoke on how impact investment should play a role in the COVID-19 response. Dean, Associate Professor Lau Chee Kwong said, “We are proud to support GCMY’s #mySPACE4Change initiative, whose commitment towards achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals goes hand-in-hand with Nottingham University Business School being a UN PRME (Principles of Responsible Management Education) Champion School.” “Issues of sustainability and social responsibility have been at the core of what we do at the Business School,

Feeling the Wind of Change from A Loft Affair

Loft Affair, as the name suggests, is a social enterprise that was founded on the bond of sisterhood while cultivating the community they are living in to move towards a greater good in many ways - especially on empowering women. Formed under Loft & Brown since 2017 by founder-CEO Nora Dato’ Rahmat known as Lady Nora and Co-Founder who is also her good friend, Magda Hesnel, A Loft Affair with a strong team of 5 people has since then branched to many projects like ‘Loft N More’ and ‘Loft Wellness’. Recently, just before the MCO, the team had successfully organised ‘Loft Babes Search’ and crowned Malveen Kaur as the ultimate winner, who is now running for Miss Grand Malaysia. “Each one of us are unique in our own ways and we rise by lifting and believing in others.” Lady Nora narrated how they are all connected and centralised through their work which is aligned to A Loft Affair’s identity. Partnering with Daddy & Co’s Syam as the Photographer in charge of branding and Farah Basheer as the Creative Director, currently running ‘Crown’ under Loft’s Wellness establishment. While Rita Harun, the Management Advisor, is a good friend of Lady Nora since she settled in Malaysia. A Loft Affair in its 4 years of establishment has actively given talks to women and youth mostly to help them establish confidence in themselves and how-to in careers. Working with the Department of Women Development, the team is welcoming everyone and anyone from all walks of lives to talk to them and coordinate almost anything together as they are in their capacity, are ready to Empower, Inspire and Engage. - by Norfy Shafeq TI

(From left to right) Chan Wen Li, Dato’ Haji Mohd Rashid bin Hasnon, Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Parliament of Malaysia, Dr Mohan Avvari and Faroze Nadar, Executive Director, Global Compact Network Malaysia from research to teaching. Indeed, our Undergraduate and MBA programmes have been designed with ethics and sustainability themes built into the curriculum,” he added.

“We congratulate Global Compact Network Malaysia on the launch of this novel initiative, and look forward to forging more connections with GCMY and the SDG cause in the future.” - by The Iskandarian TI

Overcome the Challenge to Make Students More Engaging through Online Learning

s part and parcel of new normal to live through the pandemic era, online classes seem to be the most viable and an inevitable practise. For a large part of the world, it is something to be adjusted with and new challenges will follow. Sharing the concern of tutors and educators alike, Centre of Engineering Education, UTM Johor (CEE) held a webinar with Richard M. Felder, Hoechst Celanese Professor Emeritus of Chemical Engineering at N.C. State University and Rebecca Brent, President of Education Designs Inc. at Chapel Hill, North Carolina as the panel to discuss “How To Get Online Students Actively Engaged”.

Held at 8.30am GMT+ the webinar saw 690 participants initially, ending with Q&A session with 730 participants or viewers accessing worldwide particularly from India, Korea and Malawi besides the main audience from host’s country, Malaysia. Part of the takeaways from the webinar includes doing some activities to grab students’ attention at the beginning of an online class. Rebecca mentioned activities like recalling prior materials, summarising or asking students to formulate a question each will work well to keep them engaged. She also mentioned leading the students by giving them an idea or clue to the subject of the online

session and make them curious and seek answers. This way, they would know the educator is the expert on the subject they’re learning and would pay more attention in the lesson. On students refusing to participate, Richard told participants to not take it personally. “Don’t be too bothered and move along with the lesson. An effective way to handle non-participating students is to make them know they’re going to be called out individually from time to time during the lesson”. Learn more by streaming the recorded webinar free of charge here: https://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=JgD-SffJrLY - by Norfy Shafeq TI

Senai International Airport Opens Access to the Public, Offers Free Parking

enai International Airport’s (Senai) visitors may enjoy free parking during lunch and dinner hour from 12.00pm to 2.00pm and from 6.00pm to 8.00pm all week till 31st July 2020. The free parking campaign was rolled out by its airport operator, Senai Airport Terminal Services Sdn Bhd, a Member of MMC group as part of the initiatives to boost local visitorship and to assist the airport’s retailers and F&B providers to recover after a slowdown period over the past few months. “We would also like to assure visitors that all the SOPs issued by the government are in place such as requiring all visitors to register contact through contactless QR code, wear face mask and undergo body temperature screening before entering the airport. We have also placed markings to encourage social distancing, provide free hand sanitizers and increased disinfection routines especially at the common areas as the health and wellbeing of our customers remains our top priority,” said Acting Chief Executive Officer,

Kennedy Ayu. Senai houses a total of 24 retail brands and 16 F&B outlets offering local and international flavours. The free parking promotion is applicable with any purchase from the airport’s retail and F&B outlets with no minimum amount. Visitors must validate their parking ticket and present their purchase receipt at the airport’s Information Counter before leaving to enjoy the complimentary parking. - by The Iskandarian TI

THE ISKANDARIAN

ISSUE 95 | JULY 2020

COVID-19 and Journalists Ask: Where Do We Go From Here?

s COVID-19 pandemic forced the world to enter a new normal for almost half a year now, the media around the world too has adjusted and adapted to changes. Telum Media, an entrepreneurial and PR technology company together with Singapore Press Club hosted a webinar on 24th June 2020 to discuss the ‘Current State and Future of Journalism’ with media practitioners accessing from different parts of Southeast Asia. The webinar hosted panel guest speakers Stephanie Phang, Managing Editor, Southeast Asia, Bloomberg, Joon-Nie Lau, Director of World Association of News Publishers, Asian Region, Vice President of Singapore Press Club and Yeo Sam Jo, Multimedia Correspondent at The Straits Times and Management Committee Member of Singapore Press Club. The session ran for over an hour with almost 70 questions collected from the participants. Stephanie shared that the newsroom at Bloomberg has always practised working remotely from all

around the corners of the world and believes that it is a normal practice among media practitioners even before the COVID-19 pandemic hit. Joon-Nie Lau then further explained how the newsroom always needed visuals to broadcast it. She cited her experience since the days of Singapore Broadcasting Corporation (SBC), technology has advanced and communicating data gets easier. Seeing how the world could be forced to change overnight without warning, Yeo explained the need to have young journalists to be aware of new technology and stay closer to the communities and youth culture in order to keep up with how the world is evolving. Among the issues that were discussed in the one hour discourse is the classic debate of print versus digital media among participants in the chat section, and even the challenges of media in the new normal that includes having media consumers pay for subscription of news and brands pulling out from advertising in mass media. - by Norfy Shafeq TI

NEWS

IVF Brings Hope to Couples

Delivery of the fraternal twins for new parents Choy Chee Puh and Wong Jia Wen

olumbia Asia Hospital – Tebrau unveiled their first double sets of newborn twins during the Raya festive season. It was extra special for 2 couples when they experienced as parents for the first time to welcome a new member of the family despite of the country’s nationwide lockdown brought on by the coronavirus pandemic (COVID-19). The babies were born after 6 years of waiting time for Geraldine Anne David, 32 and Jaya Kothandapani A/L Sik Baluraj, 33, a business owner. They went thru IVF treatment for many years and their wish finally came through when they were blessed with identical twin boys through C-section by Dr. Sureshkumar Subramaniam, Consultant Obstetrician and Gynecology and MaternalFetal Medicine. The first healthy boy was born at 10.32am, followed by a second adorable boy at 10.33am weighing 2.49kg and 2.39kg respectively. After 36 hours later, the hospital welcomed the 2nd pair of twins. The fraternal twins, a boy and a girl, were born healthy to parents Wong Jia Wen, 30 who work as a clerk and Choy Chee Puh, 35 who works in Singapore. They too have been looking forward to this day for many years. The couple said they have been planning for 5 years through IVF treatments to happen and they felt extremely excited when they

knew they were expecting a new addition to the family. IVF is beyond your control, but God has certainly grated their wishes. The newborn twins, a baby boy weighing 2.07kg and baby girl weighing 2.0kg were delivered by the hospital visiting consultant, Dr. Tan Jui Seng, Consultant Obstetrician and Gynecology through C-section as well. The parents felt happy and blessed with healthy and adorable babies and most importantly a safe delivery under the good hands of these two Obstetrician & Gynecologist Specialists, midwives, nurses including Dr. Farzana Mohd Yusof who is the Consultant Pediatrician. All the families were presented with a celebratory hamper by Regional General Manager, Rahani Yaacob. Incorporated in Malaysia in 1996, international and private hospital company Columbia Asia Sdn Bhd opened its first hospital in 1997. Today, Columbia Asia offers 19 operational medical facilities across Asia with 13 in Malaysia. Owner of Columbia Asia Group of hospitals in Malaysia, Indonesia and Vietnam is a partnership between Malaysian-based conglomerate, Hong Leong Group and leading global alternative asset firm, TPG. Columbia Asia hospitals offer optimum and affordable medical services through its effective and efficient healthcare facilities For further information, please contact Columbia Asia Hospital-Tebrau at + 60 (7) 272 9999. - by The Iskandarian TI

Educity’s B.R.A.V.E Communication Pack and New Operating Hours For ESC and Hub

duCity Iskandar is proud to announce their new B.R.A.V.E communication pack that stands for ‘Be Ready Against Viruses Everywhere’, a new set of guidelines as part of their efforts in managing the COVID-19 pandemic. With the guidance provided by the Ministry of Health, these set of guidelines covers the EduCity Complexes 1 and 2 (EC1 & 2), EduCity Sports Complex (ESC), EduCity Village (EV) and EduCity Hub (EH). The new operating hours for EC1, EC2 and EV will be from 8.30 am until 5.30 pm, while ESC will be operating from 8.30 am until 7 pm while Hub will extend its operating hours until 10 pm. With these new guidelines in place, EduCity Iskandar hopes to control the spread of COVID-19 and ensure the safety of the students, staff, as well as visitors by constantly reminding them with tips and procedures through visual aids in and

around their facilities. Among the precautions included in the guidelines is that facemasks are compulsory, remember to keep your social distance as well as undergo health screening and declaration each time you enter one of the premises listed. There will also be a guideline for the prayer room of each facility, with the number of people who can use the facility at one time will be restricted to the size of each prayer room. Wan Ahmad Saifuddin Wan Ahmad Radzi, the Managing Director of EduCity Iskandar said, “We worked hard to ensure our B.R.A.V.E communication pack is out to give assurance and peace of mind to our partners and respective visitors.” The public can now enjoy noncontact or social distancing sports such as badminton, table tennis, tennis and the running track that is now available at the sports complex where the guidelines

include suggestions by the Majlis Keselamatan Negara (MKN) & Kementerian Belia Dan Sukan (KBS). A new outdoor gym setup for CrossFit training is also available for the public. EduCity Hub is also opening its doors to the community who wishes to use their facilities. The two-storey building includes rooms for multipurpose usage i.e meeting, seminars, discussion room, dance & fitness studio, a dedicated music studio and Fastspace (coworking space). EduCity’s new coworking space offers the ideal solution for those looking to continue to grow their business flexibly, now at a limited time promotional rate of RM150 (normal fee RM200) for a hot desk with premium offerings without having to sink money into lease-breaking fees. Other types of space are also available i.e virtual office services and private office spaces. For those who wish to stay at EduCity

Village, short-stay rates are available for as low as RM100 per day. Featuring 210 hostel-type rooms and 66 apartment-style accommodation, the 12 ½ storey building offers 24-hour multi-tier security with CCTV surveillance, cafeteria, launderette, indoor games area, outdoor badminton, basketball court, to name a few. If you need any immediate help, each premise will also be assigned a contact person for any further assistance, and you will find their contact details upon entry of the facility. There is also a set of guidelines for the shuttle bus service, which limits the amount of students allowed per trip. The Iskandar Puteri Community Bus will also run on a temporary schedule in order to cater to the travel needs of EduCity Iskandar residents. It’s time to be brave and stand apart! Maintain the distance because the virus won’t. - by Harish Mustak TI

THE ISKANDARIAN

ISSUE 95 | JULY 2020

Victor Gan Chief Operating Officer MECA Employers Consulting Agency Sdn Bhd

NEWS

MONTHL

DRILL

Victor Gan is well recognised within the field of Industrial Relations and Employment Law in Malaysia. He is the Managing Director of MECA South and the Chief Operating Officer of MECA Employers Consulting Agency Sdn Bhd, a consulting firm representing over 500 employers across the Klang Valley, Johor and Penang. Victor holds a Bachelor of Laws from the University of Tasmania, Australia. He specialises in providing solutions to employers with regards to matters concerning the Employment Act 1955, Industrial Relations Act 1967 and Trade Unions Act 1959. His areas of expertise include but are not limited to legal advisory, terms and conditions of employment, dismissal and constructive dismissal issues, rightsizing and downsizing exercises, mergers and acquisitions, collective bargaining and labour disputes. Victor is also a frequent speaker and trainer on matters concerning employment laws. He has been featured in national HR / IR conferences and has over the years provided consistent training programmes to the private sector in Malaysia.

Tell us about MECA. At MECA, we emphasise on the delivery of an employer’s objectives through effective communication and engagement. While a company focuses on doing the right thing by their employees, our role at MECA is to blend a particular interpretation of the law into the objectives of the Company. So, what is Industrial Relations? Help a layman understand this evolution of Human Resource. Industrial relations is a function that looks into the relationship between the company and its employees. The law on industrial relations have also been created to ensure that both parties can work harmoniously. Of course, the law also provides recourse in the event either party does something to hurt the relationship of employment. You have been exposed to an array of employment issues faced by employers. Could you sum up the common problems? We’ve been dealing with employment issues faced by employers for 24 years now, and most of the time, employers position themselves to do the right thing for their company. The problem arises when an employee does not see it in the same light. This happens when the employee is considering things from his or her own perspective. It is my personal belief that if the purpose of an entire organisation is aligned, the people problems would be mitigated.

Legally, how does that stack up? Our existing laws form a foundation to every employment relationship. It is important for us to understand that the law is not static and it is constantly evolving through the development of case laws. We hold a crucial relationship with employers to ensure that the combination of doing the right thing within permitted boundaries of the law is always achievable.

direction and destination. I’m very lucky to have a supportive Board of Directors and a strong internal team who strives on ideas and innovation. For our members, we have developed our own virtual engagement strategy and our team has been relentless in experimenting new ideas for the development of an enhanced experience via our consulting and training programmes. We are now ready to roll out a series of online A large majority of employers programmes and also a virtual are facing an uphill take of convention (very excited!). keeping their company afloat as a result of the COVID-19 On a personal note, how pandemic. Any advice you can and why did you become a offer to employers at large? Consultant, and what’s the The first thing every employer best part about your job? must realise is the fact that you’re Quite honestly, industrial relations not alone in this battlefield. and employment law was never As leaders of an organisation, part of my childhood ambition. the Management team must I stumbled upon a job ad determine what’s right to keep posted by MECA upon the business sustainable. Subject graduating from law to existing provisions of the law, school and thought this may result in certain drastic I should try it out. decisions to be made, for example The ‘trying it out’ pay cuts, rightsizing exercises lasted until today! and etc. I would also encourage I must admit that employees to be equipped the earlier years of with the right mind-set and to being a Consultant realise that the sun always shines was challenging. after the rain. It is important The expectations for employers and employees were high and as a to deal with internal matters young graduate, I transparently, reasonably and in must admit that a matured manner. I had countless i n t e r n a l What are your plans for MECA in s t r u g g l e s . the near future? Nonetheless, We’ve not been spared by the I ’m glad I pandemic too, and we’ve spent a persevered and big part of the MCO to remap our the part that I

enjoy most about my job is to be able to be a big part of witnessing and executing the growth of this Company. What other interests do you have and how do you occupy your free time? I travel a fair bit for work and I try to prioritise family time whenever I can. I’m always keen to sneak out for a round of golf too!

Victor Gan

The Iskandarian ISSUE 95 | JULY 2020 Advertisement

el v ra New Era for Theme Parks

JULY 2020 | Page 2

The Iskandarian | WAVES Lifestyle

editor’s note

M u s i c U p d at e s

Violette Wautier Releases Bittersweet Electro-Pop Single “I’d Do It Again” and Debut Album “Glitter and Smoke” Time Out: One of the Thai entertainment industry’s most beloved talents

By Universal Music Singapore Priya Manikam waves.lifestyle@gmail.com

o, life seems to be slowly going back to the old “normal” with restrictions eased since the 10th of June in a bid to stimulate the economy. While we acknowledge that many have lost their jobs, interestingly there is a quarter of the population that have turned into entrepreneurs during this lockdown period. Kudos for that! On a lighter note and as promised in the last issue, I do have some good news! Disney is going against all odds and is optimistic to release Mulan this month. Initially scheduled to release in March, the movie was postponed along with other titles due to the pandemic. However, do check our lifestyle news for any updates closer to the date. Since dining-in is permitted with SOPs in place, Renaissance Johor Bahru Hotel has come up with a superb RENtastic Menu at an affordable price. Flip over to our Food section to learn more about it. Besides going back to the movies, another good news is, theme parks are now allowed to operate, and LEGOLAND Malaysia Resort has come up with new safety and health measures to keep us safe whilst enabling us to still have fun with our family and friends. Read our travel column to find out more. 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 and https://waveslifestyle.com/ The Iskandarian wishes everyone a very Happy Friendship Day and Selamat Hari Raya Haji to all celebrants.

Priya SEND LETTERS OR INQUIRIES TO www.facebook.com/waveslifestyle www.waves-lifestyle.com Waves.lifestyle@gmail.com Waves Lifestyle

hai-Belgian alt-pop songstress Violette Wautier first captivated the country with her audition on Season 2 of The Voice Thailand back in 2013. She has recently released I’d Do It Again, the final single from her debut album Glitter and Smoke, via Universal Music (Thailand) on 27th May. Although still a relative unknown to audiences outside of her native country, in the course of just a few short years, Violette Wautier has become one of Thailand’s best-loved talents in the worlds of film and music. Her career to date has seen her garner accolades and critical acclaim in both spheres, with her musical endeavours leading to chart-topping singles and glowing coverage from Time Out, Bangkok Post and Fungjai, and her on-screen performances seeing her win the Suphannahong Award for Best Supporting Actress in 2016 for her performance in Heart Attack, before being nominated again in 2018 for Die Tomorrow. Wautier will no doubt hope that she can now replicate her domestic success with an international audience, after working with Universal Music (Thailand) to complete her brilliant debut album Glitter and Smoke. In 2018, Violette decided to release her first English-language single, “Drive”. She followed up on the success of the hit with a second track named “Smoke” the same year. Following hot on the heels of the record-breaking feats on YouTube

of debut single ‘Smoke’ (the most viewed English-language song by a Thai artist), which also secured spots on Spotify’s coveted ‘New Music Friday’ playlists, Wautier released follow-up tracks ‘Drive’ and ‘Brassac’, replicating that success and more by making Apple Music’s “Today’s Hits” and ‘Mellow Days’ playlists all across Asia. Latest single I’d Do It Again is looking to bring Wautier’s distinctive mix of introspective lyrical story-telling and lush dreampopinflected production to new listeners worldwide. I’d Do It Again is an anthemic electro-pop gem which reminisces about young love. Wautier has an uncanny ability to transport her listeners into her musical world as her airy vocal describes all-too-familiar tales of heartache over a mix of shimmering synths, reverb-drenched pianos, and dreamy percussion. In this latest single, Wautier vividly describes the breakdown of a promising and passionate new romance without any sense of resentment. Blame is shared (“We were so in love / But we both messed it up”), and the end almost inevitable (“You were a storm and I was fire”). Yet, in the final assessment, only positive memories remain (“I was your girl on the passenger seat / Right next to you, we were unstoppable”), leading to the bittersweet refrain: “Even if I knew this would end, I’d Do It Again”. Wautier’s use of imagery is irresistible, and as a listener you become a voyeur in the back of her car, witnessing the break-up first-hand. Although based in Bangkok,

Western influence on Wautier’s sound is evident, and not just in her effortless switching between English and French lyrics present on her debut album. Fans of Sweden’s Oh Land, Canada’s Lights, the USA’s Lana Del Rey, and the UK’s The xx would all find familiar musical touching points across Wautier’s album, and I’d Do It Again sits very much in this musical space, with the sparse instrumentation allowing Wautier’s immediately recognisable airy vocal to come to the fore. I’d Do It Again was released across all major digital platforms via Universal Music (Thailand) on 27th May 2020, with debut album “Glitter and Smoke” released on 19th June 2020. Stream “I’d Do It Again” via https:// Violette.lnk.to/IdDoItAgainID or watch the full MV via https://youtu.be/LQ5_ WwwNi2M TI

JULY 2020 | Page 3

The Iskandarian | WAVES Lifestyle

Is Cyberbullying Our Culture? (Part 1)

cclaimed filmmaker Niki Caro brings the epic tale of China’s legendary warrior to life in Disney’s “Mulan,” in which a fearless young woman risks everything out of love for her family and her country to become one of the greatest warriors China has ever known. When the Emperor of China issues a decree that one man per family must serve in the Imperial Army to defend the country from Northern invaders, Hua Mulan, the eldest daughter of an honoured warrior, steps in to take the place of her ailing father. Masquerading as a man, Hua Jun, she is tested every step of the way and must harness her inner-strength and embrace her true potential. It is an epic journey that will transform her into an honoured warrior and earn her the respect of a grateful nation… and a proud father. “Mulan” features a celebrated international cast that includes: Yifei Liu as Mulan, Donnie Yen as Commander Tung, Jason Scott Lee as Böri Khan, Yoson An as Cheng Honghui with Gong Li as Xianniang and Jet Li as the Emperor. TI

Genre: Adventure Release date: 24th July 2020 Director: Niki Caro Produced by: Kevin Feige Screenplay by: Rick Jaffa & Amanda Silver and Lauren Hynek & Elizabeth Martin Suggested by: The Narrative Poem “The Ballad of Mulan” Producers: Jason Reed, Chris Bender and Jake Weiner

Do you know that in 2018, Malaysia has ranked the 6th place globally in cyberbullying? Who would’ve thought that a well-known country famous for its polite culture gets mentioned as the sixth-worst in one research! The article was published in Malay Mail online dated 27th October 2018. The question is, why can’t we portray the same politeness we embody in our culture in the digital world? The alarming part is most cases of cyberbullying affect our children and teenagers. Let’s do some experiment If you have any social media accounts such as Facebook or Instagram, scroll for any sensational topic and read the comments section. What you are going to do is observe the comments and at the same time disengage yourself from commenting. Observe if you could pick up these traits; suggesting others to stop living, spreading rumours, offensive name-calling, threaten to rape or harm and more. These words, although spoken and not (yet) an act of physical bullying, still affects the victim/s’ wellbeing as well as the readers. Do realise that cyberbullying does not limit to commenting on social media alone. Other forms of bullies that are under-reported are the distribution of explicit images, sharing photos without consent, constant investigation of the other party and identity thief. However, for the purpose of discussion, I am going to address cyberbullying under social media interaction, particularly in blaming, shaming and condescending others. A sign of an unhealthy mind and emotion All bullies have one thing in common: aggression in any form. The danger in cyberbullying is that the society thinks aggressive comments are normal. As a matter of fact, most people participate in it without awareness. We are building a society that is unconscious towards their mental and emotional health. We may come to a point where we do not know how to be in a healthy debate without verbally bashing others who are different than us. Instead, why not teach ourselves and the children to address our concerns towards certain issues in a constructive and empathic way? TI

Executive Producers: Barrie M. Osborne, Tim Coddington, Bill Kong Cast: Yifei Liu, Donnie Yen, Jason Scott Lee, Yoson An with Gong Li and Jet Li

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

JULY 2020 | Page 4

The Iskandarian | WAVES Lifestyle

travel

LEGOLAND Malaysia Resort Primed for New Measures in Place The ultimate all-in-one destination reveals how it will adapt to the new normal without compromising on health and safety By Priya Manikam waves.lifestyle@gmail.com

that guests can return to. LEGOLAND believes that the road to reopening starts

and packages that offer the convenience of an all-in-one destination while helping people stretch their vacation budget. The safety measures, flexible booking policies and promotional deals are critical as part of the move to revive domestic tourism while ensuring visiting families a balance between safety and leisure. As one of Malaysia’s leading holiday destination, we have a role to play in restoring and reenergising the tourism industry, an important segment that will contribute to the nation’s economic recovery,” Lim added. Ramping up Safety and Hygiene Throughout the temporary closure due to the MCO, the resort has taken the opportunity to step up its preventative measures as it prepares to welcome guests

ith the strong support from the government and frontliners, Malaysia has been making huge strides in handling the COVID-19 pandemic. As economic activities continue to resume in phases, many businesses and industries are preparing ahead to reopen while adjusting to a new normal that prioritises public health. LEGOLAND Malaysia Resort (LMR) is excited to present a glimpse of the new era for theme parks and resorts, where there can be a semblance of normality

Reinvigorating Tourism by Extending Flexibility and Value LEGOLAND is announcing a variety of attractive pre-opening ticket and accommodation offers where families can pre-book and plan for their next holiday. The promotions also come with extended validity period that is relatively longer than the usual packages. Some of the offers include: • 3-month extension for all Annual Pass – Valid for passes that have expired or are expiring between February – December 2020. • Limited Time Annual Pass Renewal – Annual Pass renewed from now onwards will be valid until December 2021. • Limited Time Free Hotel Stay –

with setting a new standard for safety and hygiene, before reinvigorating domestic travel by introducing attractive offerings with flexibility at core. “Our goal is to keep everyone safe, including our LEGOLAND team and community. We have cautiously evaluated and set new protocols that will allow us to meet and exceed the guidelines put in place by the Ministry of Health,” said C.S. Lim, Divisional Director at LMR. “We know how much Malaysians have been looking forward to travelling again. We have in store a selection of promotions

back. Safety and hygiene will continue to be LEGOLAND’s top priority in the ‘new normal’. As such, guests will be seeing new measures during their next visit, including social distancing and crowd control (30% capacity), hygiene and disinfection protocols as well as enhanced cleaning and sanitization. Guests will still enjoy the unique LEGOLAND experience with peace of mind knowing that their families are in good hands at the resort. LMR has been sharing and applying many learning and best practices among its sister attractions in a collaborative effort to align with the highest level of compliance.

Book 1 night and get the 2nd night for free. • Limited Time Free Theme Park Access – Buy 1 Day ticket and get the 2nd ticket for free. Do that note that LEGOLAND Theme Park, SEA Life Malaysia and the Hotel is open to the public, but from 8th July 2020, the theme park will be closed every Wednesday unless the date falls on a Public Holiday due to sanitization and deep cleaning procedures. The Water Park will remain closed until further notice. For more updates, promotions and full safety measures, head over to their official website, https://www.legoland.com.my/. TI

ISSUE 95 | JULY 2020

THE ISKANDARIAN

FEATURE

Forest City Safe Island: Home within the Realm of Nature and Top-Notch Security Greenery for your peace of mind, exponential security for your safety in Safe Island by Country Garden Forest City What is Safe Island? Country Garden, a master developer in Iskandar Malaysia region that launched Forest City in Gelang Patah, Johor is evolving its role as a real estate developer into a City Operator with the project’s first island. Now fully occupied, Forest City is now thriving with two five-star hotels, IBS plant, international school and commercial areas with over 100 retail tenants on its premises. As a City Operator with focus on residents’ welfare and safety, the shift went to exploring sustainable development, creating greater economic vitality for the region, enhancing regional value, and bringing in industries to create a stable and healthy city development ecosystem. The city sets the stage for a healthier, happier, futuristic lifestyle, and dismisses the hidden risks that potentially heightened the inevitability that comes from the increase in population over security issues, resulting in the creation of four different Safe Islands. Therefore, ever since the beginning of Forest City’s construction, the safety system has always been the top priority of urban planning, development and construction. In addition to the comprehensive hardware of smart security systems, Forest City also provides the residents with peace of mind through meticulous services by putting more emphasis on its urban safety systems. From digitised municipal service system, to smart security monitoring system deployed all over the city, as well as the customised safe travel solutions, Forest City with its people-oriented security solutions to the community has proven its credibility being awarded with IDC Smart City Award in July 2019, an affirmation of Forest City’s work in building a smart city. Forest City in its pursuit to become a prime model of future cities and during the urban development stage has continually emphasised on safe production and construction and would assess public safety in nine dimensions: natural safety, ecological safety, medical and health safety, food safety, traffic safety, public facilities safety, social security, social welfare security and information security. The very notion of ‘Safe Island’ is innovations and investment from four aspects namely Build a Network of Sensors, Establish a Data Platform, Form a Management System and Develop Multitier Business Applications.

The Establishment of a Data Platform is to extract new value data from multisource, decentralise and fragment massive data, and construct a thematic database with elements of people, places, objects, and organisations. Building a Network of Sensors is establishing a multi-dimensional sensing network to receive information on various elements in the community including people, vehicles and other features of the city. The information would then be accumulated and redistributed for monitoring and continual improvements via a centralised database. Forming Management System means it will have the full collection of household and vehicle information, full control of entry and exit personnel and vehicle with its track record, leaving no ‘unknown’ to be roaming around the island suspiciously. On top of this, management is streamlined, utilising software to form a unified safety management standard and system across the island city. Developing Multi-tier Business Applications refers to fully integrating the core demands of intelligence, security, management, and other applications such as AI and big data analysis to build a smart and safe island. A perfect place for your family to settle into Wake up from a peaceful slumber at night, knowing your home is within a neighbourhood that is safe and sound courtesy of Forest City’s Safe Island system with four level of defense – boundary protection deployed at community entrances, fences with face recognition, license plate recognition, WIFI data collection, perimeter intrusion detection, and a lot more. The second level of defense is an

internal protective network deployed at the roads, car parks and public places in the community, supported by technologies such as video surveillance, behaviour detection, face recognition, fire smoke detection, and fire pressure detection. The third level of defence is at the gate of the estate supported by video surveillance and face recognition. The fourth level of defence is at the corridor inside the blocks where the smoke sensors are installed for fire detection, infrared thermal sensors, one-key alarm and other equipment are installed for the elderly living alone, so to form a comprehensive protection network to eliminate most of the blind spots. To top off the four levels of internal defence lines, Forest City also works closely with the local government and has the community police patrolling at Forest City every day for enhanced security. Truly the home you need for your family and a well-thought process for senior citizens to settle in. It is indeed an investment that will nurture your soul with beautiful surroundings, nature playing architects, mental assurance with esteemed security that rapidly evolves with time and convenience to move around swiftly to suit your needs. Living in the future is possible and the future is right in Forest City’s Safe Island, just within your grasp. State of The Art Design Safe Island’s public areas, such as the sales gallery, beach area, and Water Park, will deploy video intelligent analysis system and eagle-eye cameras to monitor the human traffic in real time using face recognition and AR real-time realisation technologies. Emergency alarm columns will also be installed at the beach area

to ensure that security officers can be notified and respond to any emergencies as soon as possible. In public car parks, the intelligent parking system would record all the incoming vehicles’ plate numbers, model, and parking lot to ensure the safety of the vehicle while providing convenience to the drivers. One resident reported that he once borrowed a friend’s car to travel. When he arrived at the car park, he was dumbfounded as he couldn’t locate the car in the two-storey car park. Thanks to the intelligent parking kiosk, he entered the car plate number and immediately found the parking place. This is just a little real-life example of how the smart security system has been helpful. Forest City will provide even more enhanced smart security solutions to its residents through continuous efforts, from the smart parking system to the dynamic traffic management system, aiming to always provide residents with more efficient travel solutions. Sustainable City Life As a City Operator, Forest City continuously explores sustainable development, promoting the integration of “Industry, City, and People” by taking up on industrial-oriented planning to promote industrial development and create economic vitality, pushing for the implementation of intelligent solutions to improve efficiency, and to create the cultural symbol of Forest City by promoting integration between city, industry, and residents. Forest City’s conceptual design was inspired by Country Garden’s Chairman Yeung Kwok Keung who pioneered the city’s multi-layered transportation network, vertical greening and open space, designed by Sasaki on its overall

Forest City emphasises sustainable landscaping and focuses on the incorporation of sleek design in its development g r e e n

ISSUE 95 | JULY 2020

THE ISKANDARIAN

FEATURE from the most turbulent times. With the three thrusts of policy, market demand and organisation development, the hightech companies which are able to deeply integrate information technology and strive to create a better living standard for the people will arise under this adversity. Nature and Recreational

Located among lush greenery, Safe Island is a place that promotes harmony between man and nature master plan. Utilising a vertical greening concept, sky garden and roof garden system, Forest City adopts a multi-dimensional green system and thus has been conferred world class awards on its green and sustainability initiatives. Forest City’s green masterplan, design and construction are based on GreenRE Gold standards, all of which has won several awards such as: 1. Boston Society of Landscape Architect Award, one of the most renowned landscaping design awards in the US. 2. Gold award for “The Best Future Mega Project” by MIPIM Asia. 3. Pre-certified the gold recipient under LEED-CS by USGBC - Forest City Sales Gallery. 4. United Nations Global Human Settlements Award on Planning and Design – Forest City IBS. Look out for the eco-museum located

right at the beach that will be open to the public where it contains a lot about the marine ecosystem around Forest City and demonstrate the city’s efforts to shape the harmony between man and nature. In the future, the museum will also become a practice base for residents and surrounding community to raise environmental awareness and promote green concepts. Amenities and Advanced Technology Looking at the current economic and social development situation, the huge potential of digital new infrastructure is even more precious. Online conference systems, e-hospitals, e-commerce, mobile payment, and big data services that enable life and work on the cloud have been playing an important role in epidemic prevention and production resumption. With the catalysis of the epidemic, new infrastructure development has become a strategic

measure of Forest City to accelerate digital transformation. In the short term, the digital new infrastructure can hedge the impact of the epidemic, help stabilise the economy and meet the needs of a digital economy in the long run. Just like any other major infrastructure development in history, it will eventually promote the industry development and the new infrastructure will also stimulate new demand, create new business models, push for economic transformation and upgrading, and foster high-quality economic development. The company’s business transformation is an opportunity resulting from time, environment and our business development. We will be fully committed to push forward the operation of the city based on the situation and make Forest City truly a prime model of future cities. An excellent business model always emerges

Together with its dedicated staff, Forest City is building a smart and safe city with 24/7 multi-level security systems

As Safe Island is committed towards sustainability, all greenery and nature around Forest City are completely preserved while the design is modern and amplified with technology that will continuously be updated to keep up with its change from time to time. The four Safe Islands are dedicated to 4 different areas with the first one for High Tech Industrial Zone, followed by the Central Business District and Tourism Zone, Financial and Economic District and Conference and Forum Zone. Island 1 of High Tech Industrial Zone is covering 979 acres of central business district, shopping malls, IT industrial park, playground and transportation centres. Central Business District on its 1895 acres is the largest Safe Island where residents are located complete with Central Park, Sports Park, including the hospital and ferry terminals. Residential at this island ranges from villas and bungalows with each having an access to the beach, long serene walking trails around the island, multiple parks and as it is also a tourism district, expect wellness centres, golf courses and swimming pools for you to enjoy and unwind. Work and more extended leisure are at the two different islands; the Financial and Economic District and the Conference and Forum Zone where each are 405 acres and 164 acres respectively. These two areas are where the customs and duty-free shopping centres paired with rows of luxury hotels, convention centres and international exchange centres are located. Safe Island is the future of living, and live the future today with Forest City. - by The Iskandarian TI

The Iskandarian ISSUE 95 | JULY 2020 Advertisement

THE ISKANDARIAN

ISSUE 95 | JULY 2020

Let’s Fight Dengue! By Dr. Tee Shin Kuan Internal Medicine Consultant & Nephrologist Columbia Asia Hospital - Tebrau

hile we take pride i n o u r e f fo r t s in controlling COVID-19 pandemic in our country, dengue cases have been increasing at a worrying pace. According to data from Ministry of Health, since January 2019 until 6th June 2020, a total of 48,584 dengue cases have been reported. An increase of 8% of dengue cases recorded every week is of grave concern with 84 deaths and counting. Majority cases which were fatal were due to patients’ delay in seeking treatment. According to Malaysia’s Health Director-General, Datuk Dr Noor Hisham Abdullah, the surge of dengue cases in 2020 is from June till September. Re-introducing dengue Dengue is a vector-borne disease caused by the dengue virus. The virus spreads through the Aedes mosquito which is most active during sunrise and sunset. There are four strains of the dengue virus; namely, DEN 1, DEN 2, DEN 3 and DEN 4. A person who has contracted a particular strain of the dengue virus will have immunity against that particular strain only. For example, a patient with DEN 1 only has immunity against the DEN 1 virus strain so he/she is still at risk of contracting dengue fever from DEN 2, DEN 3

or DEN 4. What to look out for A dengue patient will show symptoms after four to seven days after being bitten by the Aedes mosquito. These include:• Fever • Joint pain • Muscle pain • Headaches • Eye pain • Nausea • Diarrhoea • Rashes The three phases of dengue Dengue fever can be divided into three phases: febrile, critical and recovery. The febrile phase comprises of fever that lasts three to five days. During this phase, the patient experiences fever, joint pain, muscle pain, headaches and other symptoms mentioned earlier. After three to five days, the patient enters the critical phase. This lasts between 48 to 72 hours. During this phase, the patient recovers from fever but there is a fall in platelet count and white blood cell count. Following that, the patient starts showing different symptoms. Some of them do not has serious symptoms whereas some experience complications such as internal bleeding, water retention in the lungs or stomach,

low blood pressure, kidney failure and liver failure as well as coma. This can lead to death. After 48 to 72 hours, the patient will go through the recovery phase where dengue symptoms dissipate while blood platelets and white blood cells return to normal count. On average and from end to end, it takes seven to 10 days before a dengue patient starts recovering from the disease. The following diagram is from the 2015 Management of Dengue Infection in Adults – Malaysia Clinical Practise Guidelines. It explains all three phases: What to do when you display symptoms To date, there are no specific treatments or immunisation for dengue fever. Patients who experience signs and symptoms of dengue must seek treatment immediately. Blood test must be carried out in order to get the diagnosis. Dengue cases must be notified to health officers so that preventive actions can be taken. This includes fogging in the patients’ area of residence. For patients who have mild symptoms, he or she should rest at home under observation with daily blood tests at the clinic or hospital. For those who have warning signs, he or she must be referred to the hospital for treatment and close monitoring.

LIVE three times in 24 hours • Water retention in the lungs, heart and stomach • Spontaneous bleeding • Fatigue • Disorientation/confusion • Liver tenderness on palpation • Abnormal blood test results The high risk group Apart from patients who have warning signs as mentioned above, high risk patients should also be referred to the hospital for close observation. These comprise patients with the following existing conditions: • Diabetes mellitus • High blood pressure • Heart disease • Kidney disease • Obesity • Aged 65 and older • Pregnant • On blood thinning medication What we can do to improve situation One of the most effective ways to do this is to ensure that the

Aedes mosquito has no breeding grounds. The Aedes mosquito breeds in stagnant water even if the container is as small as a 50cent coin. Therefore, we must be vigilant and make sure that we:• Pour out water that collects in plant pots and trays. • Dispose containers that could potentially collect water. • Unclog drains including rooftop drains. • Ensure water tanks are covered. Try to avoid getting bitten by the Aedes mosquito. Avoid outdoor activities during sunrise and sunset because this is when the Aedes mosquito is active. If you need to be outdoors during that time, wear bright-coloured clothing with long sleeves and long pants. Apply mosquito repellent on exposed areas. Should you find Aedes mosquitos in your house compound, use a mosquito repellent spray. In short, we must work together to fight dengue. Just like COVID-19, dengue too is a fatal disease. Always be vigilant and protect yourself and your family against dengue. TI

Warning signs include:• Stomach pains • Vomiting more than three times in 24 hours • Diarrhoea more than

The BIG FISH BAILOUT: One Contribution, Multiple Blessings…

hen Phase 1 of the Movement Control Order (MCO) kicked in on 18th March 2020, borders and businesses closed. This meant that when the fishermen of the western Tebrau Strait brought in their catch, there were no longer any customers to buy it. This either meant that they would have no income for the length of the MCO, or the middlemen would be stuck

with the cost as there were no restaurants or factories open and operating. In the north and east of Peninsular Malaysia, tonnes of fish were being dumped and wasted as customers fizzled. Under the Pasar Pendekar Laut initiative, Kelab Alami decided to raise funds to buy up large fish that no longer had any buyers, and donate them to those in need. All across greater Johor Bahru, NGOs were scrambling to feed the hungry and there was always demand for fish. Kelab Alami began to collaborate with a number of other NGOs, such as P2FA and Tara Foundation, as well as several other Iskandar Malaysia Social Hero Awards (IMSHA) winners such as Malaysian Red Crescent Society (MRCS), Ihsan Johor, Freemarket Johor,

Yayasan Suria Johor Bahru and The Love Project. This ensured that the fish reached many more in dire need. After 49 days and 5 phases of MCO, RM41,017 of fishermen’s livelihoods have

been saved through the Big Fish Bailout. This works out to about RM892 per fisherman. RM11,694 was contributed by NGO partners who paid

Serina Rahman Serina Rahman is the co-founder of Kelab Alami and a Visiting Fellow at the ISEAS-Yusof Ishak Institute, Singapore. She is also a winner of the Iskandar Malaysia Social Hero Awards (IMSHA) partially or in full for fish to be distributed to their wards. Overall, this meant contributions of fish to about 2255 individuals or families in low cost home areas, homes or shelters. Of this, RM17,457 worth of fish was sent to Gunung Pulai where MRCS is taking care of Johor Bahru’s street folks. The Big Fish Bailout

continued till the end of CMCO period and likely to be still carried out depending on the catch and funds. Contribution are welcome. Log on to https:// kelabalami.weebly.com/store/ p36/Sponsor_Fish_to_Feed_ the_Needy.html to find out how your one contribution can have multiple blessings, or contact Serina at +60-17-6729367 for more information. TI

THE ISKANDARIAN

ISSUE 95 | JULY 2020

WORK

The Long and the Short of It – Workers’ Minimum Standards of Housing and Amenities (Amendment) Act 2019

n the wake of the COVID-19 outbreak, the focus has now come down on the foreign workers and the conditions of their housing which is said to be a contributing factor to the spread of the disease. As part of the efforts to reduce this and also as part of Malaysia’s evolution to comply with International Labour Standards, an amendment to the Workers’ Minimum Standard of Housing and Amenities Act 1990 (Act 446) has since been passed by the Parliament of Malaysia. This Amending Act is citied as the Workers’ Minimum Standards of Housing and Amenities (Amendment) Act 2019 (the Act). The Act was passed on 15th July 2019 in the Dewan Rakyat and on the 31st July in the Dewan Negara, has introduced significant changes to the application of Act 446. It came into force on 1st June 2020. With the introduction of the amendments, the scope of the application has extended to cover all employment sectors and applies to employers who wish to build/ provide housing to its employees. Previously, it only covered estates and mining. The word “worker” has also been replaced with the word “employee” throughout the text signifying that the Act is to cover those defined as employees under the Employment Act 1955 for example those earning less than RM2,000, manual labourers and etc.

It is important that employers remember that the Act is only applicable in West Malaysia and Labuan. It is also compulsory for those hiring foreign workers to provide housing but is optional for local workers. The majority of the changes to the Act occur in the newly introduced part; Part IIIA – Accommodation applying to all sectors other than estates. Firstly, the role of regulating the implementation or rather the day to day functioning of the Act falls on the shoulders of the Director General of Labour to administer and regulate all matters relating to accommodation and the certification needed by employers. Just like the requirement of having the Certificate Completion and Compliance (CCC) post construction, the Act introduces the need for employers or centralised accommodation providers to have what is known as a Certificate for Accommodation (CFA) distinct from that of the CCC in order to be allowed to accommodate employees within. The CFA is based on the employer complying with the minimum standards in the Act and the Regulations (soon to be introduced) and the written laws of the local authorities. The employers have the duties and responsibility to ensure that the accommodation has decent amenities for the employees and

also comply with the duties and responsibilities listed out with regards to health and safety. Employers nevertheless are allowed to charge rent for the accommodation provided to employees and may deduct the employees’ wages for such purposes. The rate will be based on capping provided by the authorities. Accommodation providers also need to ensure that there is a responsible officer who would be in charge of discipline, conduct fortnightly inspections and ensure the general wellbeing of the employees. It makes it necessary that complaints of

employees feeling unwell or ill to be addressed and records must be kept. The Act also lays down the basis for the vacating of the accommodation based on the length of notice provided by the parties. This way if termination or resignation occurs, an employee with 4 weeks’ notice is required to leave the premises on their last day of service. However, where less than 4 weeks’ notice is given, the employee should be given 4 weeks to vacate the premises. It should be noted that the Act seems to introduce a new stream of revenue for the public. Employers, who do not wish to build, maintain and regulate their own accommodations, may instead house their employees with a Centralised accommodation provider which is a person who provides and manages a centralised accommodation and supervises the services therein. This can be for employees of more than one employer. This does not mean employers can wash their hands entirely, it must still be ensured that the accommodation provider has the necessary certification as required by the authorities and strictly follow the duties and responsibilities as outlined in the Act. Moving forward, a strict stance has been taken on any breaches in relation to the Act. Monetary fines have been significantly increased across

Cassandra Priyanka Pius Consultant Meca Employers Consulting Agency Sdn Bhd cassandra@meca.com.my

the board. There is also potential for imprisonment for certain breaches. Companies including directors that manages and secretaries may be held severally or jointly liable under the Act for any breach. Employers are being given the tight timeline of 3 months to take measures to ensure compliance before enforcement begins on 1st September 2020. Nevertheless, regulations on the subject are important as the Act merely provides the bare necessities whilst the regulations will provide specifics. TI

THE ISKANDARIAN

ISSUE 95 | JULY 2020

INVEST

Accumulating Wealth Tips & Tricks

Has the Bull Returned?

t has been three months since the global stock market touched its lowest point. Since then, there has been a smooth sailing in the US stock market for two and a half months. It makes people wonder, has the bull returned? Let us recall. On 23rd March 2020, if you said the market had reached the bottom, people would say you’re insane. But it was indeed at the bottom and the Dow Jones Industrial Average (DJIA) has surged over nearly 50% from 18213 to 27580 before the correction began on 11th June 2020. While the media attributed to the sharp correction on the emergence of the second wave of COVID-19, the fact is that, if the market has gone up too much too quickly, it ought to correct. One irony is that the US market have seemed to be immune from all sorts of negative news; from exceptional high unemployment rate, death toll, bankruptcies, tensions between the US and China, to the recent massive protests on racism. Thanks to the Federal Reserve’s unlimited QE, the market know that they have a big boss behind to do everything he can to ‘save the economy’, therefore, there’s nothing to be afraid off. Nevertheless, the euphoria of the stock market does not reflect the reality. Finally, the Fed Chairman Jerome Powell has admitted that the US economy outlook

is bleak and warned that many Americans are set to be out of work potentially for years. Subsequently, a sharp correction began, as punters seemed to have awakened. Some would say this is merely a correction, while others deem that the music has stopped and another collapse is imminent. To have a better picture of the market, let us have a look at the technical chart of Dow Jones Industrial Average (DJIA) until 12th June 2020. There are two characteristics of this correction. First, the index opened with a huge gap, going south with a long bear candle, penetrating the MA200 line but settled at above the 25000 level. This shows the bear has won the first round, and has huge strength to continue subsequently. Secondly, even though we can see

a rebound of 477 point the next day, it was minor compared to the major fall of 1862 the day before. However, the index still has two strong supports points, namely the 25000 level, which is coinciding with the MA50 (pink line), followed by the critical 24000 level. Obviously, the rally before has ended. So, where would DJIA go next? I believe it is likely to go south first before going back to north again. The question is for how low and how long before the trend reverses? Looking at the committed bear candle on 11th June 2020, I see the possibility of the index falling below 25000. But so long as it doesn’t go below the 24000 level, the chances of coming back are higher. What Affects the Sentiment Now?

I believe the following is what the market is concerned for now: 1) The second wave of COVID-19, especially the massive protests held in the US and Europe, as we can see there was no social distancing when people were marching on the streets. 2) The intensified tensions between the US and China. With the US presidential election coming nearer, this topic will inevitably get heated up. 3) Once the market discovers some jobs will not be back in the short term, and it’ll take much longer for the economy to recover, it would turn jittery again. 4) Oil price. While the major oil players have agreed for production cut until end of July, excessive storage would lead to oil price correction. In addition,

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. (Source: www.investing.com)

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

the second wave of COVID-19 will also have a negative effect on the oil demand. Eventually, weaker oil prices will have an impact on the stock market. 5) Unlimited QE and perhaps negative interest rates. While unlimited QE has been an effective tool in enhancing the liquidity of the market, it is a double-edged sword. Now we have started hearing the possible collapse of the US dollar because of abusing it for the sake to stabilise the market. Conclusion So has the bull returned? Since the market still have so many concerns, I believe the answer is ‘yes’, as an old adage says, ‘Bull market climbs wall of worry’. So, take a deep breath and continue enjoying the climb. TI

All Malaysian SMEs Stand a Chance to Win Astro TV, Radio and Digital Airtime Spots through Astro Business Talk’s ‘Reignite SMEs’ Contest

stro continues to provide support to all Malaysians including small and medium enterprises (SMEs) during the COVID-19 pandemic with the Astro Business Talk’s ‘Reignite SMEs’ contest, in which fifteen SMEs can win prizes comprising TV, radio and digital airtime spots worth up to RM1,500,000 in total to promote their business. All Astro residential and commercial customers can nominate an SME of their choice, whether it be their businesses or SMEs owned by their family and friends, via www.astrobusinesstalk. com. The contestants will

need to fill in an online form to provide details and answer two questions about their nominated SMEs. Submissions are ongoing with 5th July 2020 being the last date to send it in. Fifteen winners will be chosen based on eligibility of the SME nominated, as stated in Astro Business Talk - ‘Reignite SMEs’ Contest terms and conditions on the official website as well as the quality and originality of the submission. From 8th August 2020 to 22nd August 2020, the contestants will need to tune in via TV or Astro GO to Astro AEC (HD CH 306 and CH 346) Prime Talk at 8pm to retrieve a daily password and Evening

Edition at 10.30pm where a winner will be contacted and announced each day for fifteen days. Upon being contacted during “Evening Edition”, the winner who can successfully state the password announced on the same day during “Prime Talk” will win the full package comprising TV, radio and digital airtime spots for their nominated SMEs. Winners who are unable to state the password will win only the radio and digital airtime spots for their nominated SMEs. For more information on Astro Business Talk: Reignite SMEs contest, visit www. astrobusinesstalk.com TI

THE ISKANDARIAN

ISSUE 95 | JULY 2020

PLAY

Mysterious Jungle Spawns Fresh Features and New Adventure in PUBG Mobile

Sudoku

Please keep the kerbside and parks free from rubbish! every month The Iskandarian shares what you should and should not be doing in your communities !

Scan QR Code for the solution

DOODLE

grow throughout Sanhok, and players who loot and consume them have the chance to experience mystical effects. Random Buffs and Debuff allow players to be able to sense Air Drops, restore Health or Energy, or cause dizziness.

UBG MOBILE introduces a “Mysterious Jungle” with new features to its classic tactical gameplay in the dense and rugged forest map Sanhok. The jungle themed update has added fresh and fun experience in an already intense battlefield. Players who queue for Sanhok in Classic Mode will have the random chance to activate and get into the new Jungle Adventure Mode, adding several mysterious totems to get different blessings. Players can activate Power Totems, Strategy Totems, and Protection Totems to repair Helmets and Vests, restore Energy and restore Health, respectively. In addtion to the mysterious and powerful totems, players can also experience the following features in the new Jungle Adventure: • Jungle Food – Special fruit now

• Hot Air Balloons – This all-new vehilce allows players to take to the skies and survey the battlefield. Today’s jungle update to the Sanhok map arrives just weeks after a sandstorm took over Miramar, delivering a massive wave of new features. PUBG MOBILE is available to download for free on the App Store and Google Play. PUBG Mobile is based on PLAYERUNKNOWN’S BATTLEGROUNDS, the phenomenon that took the world of interactive entertainment by storm in 2017. Up to 100 players parachute onto a remote island to battle in a winner-takes-all showdown. Players must locate and scavenge their own weapons, vehicles and supplies, and defeat every player in a visually and tactically rich battleground that forces players into a shrinking play zone. - by The Iskandarian TI

Good Company, Good Food and Good Price The eccentricities of new normal dining you must try this well-crafted menu which is broken up to choices of salads, soups, western treats, Asian specialty, pasta fiesta, Chinese sets, Indian sets, Teppanyaki and a kids menu all appropriately priced at an all-

seafood on ice, a mixed grill platter or tom yam claypot are available. Moving forward, this eatall-you-want experience gives you the feeling that the buffet comes to you, at the comfort of your table, and may be another new way of dining that we can surely get used to! Pop in and try the all new RENtastic Menu at Cafe BLD at Renaissance Johor Bahru Hotel. Available daily for lunch from 12:00 pm - 3:00 pm and dinner from 6:00 pm - 9:00 pm.

Appetisers and a snap of the menu

wor some of us, the dinein experience is more than just about food. It’s about sharing quality time with good company, rejoicing over a scrumptious meal and not burning a hole in the pocket. The new offering at Renaissance Johor Bahru Hotel (Renaissance) does just that.

For creatures who crave delightful main courses, colourful entrees and mouthwatering desserts, take a short drive to Renaissance and rush over to Café BLD to try out their newly launched and value for money RENtastic Menu. If you’re satisfied by the best to serve your taste palates, then

The menu comes with four options of platter add-ons

inclusive RM58. All these mouthwatering flavours are definitely worth your money. The menu comes with a platter add on option whereby a choice of satay kampung,

Apt portions with authentic tastes

Produce used is fresh and tasteful

Reservations may be made at +6073813322 or via WhatsApp at +60177713327. - by Edey Suresh TI

The Iskandarian ISSUE 95 | JULY 2020

Associate Kalaivani gives her inputs on delivery of vacant possession during COVID-19 pandemic 18 pg 24

PROPERTY

PROPERTY INSIGHT

@ home

RESIDENTIAL PROJECTS

APARTMENTS

VILLAS

CONDOMINIUMS

OFFICE/RETAILSPACE

pg 25 Sunway Property: Property purchasers snapped up RM200 million worth of properties

Read this article on our website

Forbes ranks Country Garden as No. 111

The return of Home Ownership Campaign 2020/21

Connect with us on Facebook

THE ISKANDARIAN

ISSUE 95 | JULY 2020

The Return of Home Ownership Campaign Campaign is running from June 2020 and will be ongoing for a year

s a part of the nation’s Economy Recovery Plan, Prime Minister Muhyiddin Yassin has announced several tax incentives with one of them being the Home Ownership Campaign (HOC) making a return since its launch in November 2019. The new campaign would include stamp duty exemption on name transfer letters and loan agreement on home purchase of RM300,000 to RM2.5 million worth. The stamp duty exemption on name transfer letters are limited to the first RM1million of the home’s price while it would be exempted fully for financing agreement and is applied on all signed agreements dated 1st June 2020 to 31st May 2021. Developers are subjected to the terms by giving a minimum of 10% discount. Meanwhile, Real Property Gains Tax would be waived for Malaysian citizen individuals on its profit gained from selling their property from 1st June 2020 to 31st

PROPERTY

Drive Thru Dine In Anyone? First of its Kind Only at Sunway Big Box

December 2021, limited to 3 units per individual. The Home Ownership Campaign also includes that the financing limit for third home loan of RM600,000 and above is no longer subject to 70% of the value, but subjected to the financial institution’s internal risk management. - by Norfy Shafeq TI

S Home Ownership Campaign (HOC) under Economy Recovery Plan post Movement Control Order waived tax and stamp duties to help boost the economy

unway Big Box, the new retail park in town, was opened just a few months shy from the Movement Control Order (MCO) enforcement in March 2020. So, it was exciting to see what Sunway had prepared to observe social distancing with their recent Drive Thru Dine In concept. The concept requires one to book either Brunch, Lunch, Tea Hour or Dinner in their preorder online form and reservations should be made 3 days prior to the day you’re visiting. Upon arrival, drive up to the designated car park and the staff would greet you and take your temperature, register your entrance in the MySejahtera system and move you along

to the designated dining place that is set up few steps away. You can pick out from 10 gazebos at different locations available to suit your mood in the preorder form. Lovely ambience that’s easy on the eyes and everyone are seated a metre away from one another. Each gazebo is placed further from the neighbouring ones; separated nicely with decorations like trains and wooden boxes as the separating border. There are 8 menus from different food and beverage outlets to choose from, and more are to come soon! Just scan the QR code provided on the table top to see the menu and place your order. Payments are made when the food arrives and it is encouraged to go cashless. Less contacts, less risk! Needless to say, dining alfresco under pretty gazebos with social distancing will give you a peace of mind when health and safety is prioritised without comprising on your dining out experience. So in short all you have to do is fill in the diner/s’ details, select your location, choose your restaurant(s) and dining time and order upon arrival. Ready to Drive Thru and Dine In? Click on this order form and experience it 3 days from today! https://rebrand.ly/drivethrudinein - by Norfy Shafeq TI

iProperty.com.my Reveals the Seven High-Rise Properties in Malaysia With the Highest Rental Yield in 2019

Property.com.my reveals seven high-rise properties in Malaysia which offers the best rental revenue (yield) in proportion to the property’s price in 2019. These residential properties which are located in several states recorded gross rental yields ranging from 5.71% to 11.1%. The list is based on data compiled by iProperty.com.my‘s big data solution, iPropertyIQ.com. The properties are ranked in ascending order and the rental yield is displayed in terms of percentages (%). 1. Le Ren aissance – Bukit Kepayang, Negeri Sembilan Rental Yield: 11.1% Built-up size which generated top rental yield: 1,367 – 1,500 sq ft. Median property price for 1,367 – 1,500 sq ft: RM270,000. Median rent in 2019: RM2,500. 2. Amber Court – Bentong, Pahang Rental Yield: 8.8% Built-up size which generated top rental yield: 1,184 – 1,302 sq ft. Median property price for 1,184 – 1,302 sq ft: RM340,000. Median rent in 2019: RM2,500. 3. Larkin Utama (Menara Metro Larkin) – Johor Bahru, Johor Rental Yield: 8.5% Built-up size which generated top rental yield: 1,078 – 1,448 sq ft.Median property price for 1,078 – 1,448 sq ft: RM155,000. Median rent in 2019: RM1,100.

Larkin Utama is a mid-range leasehold apartment in Johor Bahru which is still showing strong rental performance. Built in 1999, the apartment is in a strategic location close to the Royal Johor Golf Club, as well as other amenities such as KPJ Puteri Specialist Centre, Larkin Bus Terminal, Merdeka City Park and Danga Bay City Mall; along with educational institutions such as Larkin 2 National School and St Joseph Secondary School. Larkin Utama also stands out in terms of facilities, offering more than what typical apartments offer, such as a tennis court, squash court, gymnasium, swimming pool and sauna, mini-market, children’s playground and a barbeque area. Residents are guaranteed 24-hour security too, with regular guard patrols. 4. Berjaya Times Square – Jalan Imbi, Kuala Lumpur Rental Yield: 6.02%

6. JAZZ Suites @ Vivacity – Kuching, Sarawak Rental Yield: 5.83%

Built-up size which generated top rental yield: 550 – 678 sq ft. Median property price for 550-678 sq ft: RM578,000. Median rent in 2019: RM2,900.

Built-up size which generated top rental yield: 1,004 – 1076 ft. Median property price for 1,001 – 1,076 ft sq ft: RM535,000. Median rent in 2019: RM2,600.

5. PLAZA 393 – Jalan Peel, Cheras Rental Yield: 6%

7. The Palladium – Keramat, Kuala Lumpur Rental Yield: 5.71%

Built-up size which generated top rental yield: 718 – 732 sq ft & 902 – 980 sq ft. Median property price for 718 – 732 sq ft & 902 – 980 sq ft: RM 301,500; RM360,000. Median rent in 2019: RM1,500; RM1,800.

Built-up size which generated top rental yield: 1,141 – 1,238 sq ft. Median property price for 1,141 – 1,238 sq ft: RM420,000. Median rent in 2019: RM2,000. - by The Iskandarian TI

ISSUE 95 | JULY 2020

THE ISKANDARIAN

AKPK’s Scam Alert: Third Party Agent: Don’t Be Duped – Part Two

cammers are taking advantage of the COVID-19 pandemic and related government aid to dupe people into parting with their money. The most active among them are the Macau Scam, False Transaction Authorisation Code (TAC), Personal Loans Scam, online purchase of face masks and the most recent scam is the use of false websites or apps using the name of Bank Negara Malaysia. AKPK ’s financial education service, which provides education on the responsible use of money and credit management skills, gives a comprehensive coverage of financial scams in its investment module to create greater awareness of these scams thus helping individuals to avoid being scammed. We would like to encourage those who wish to know more about our financial education modules to check out our website www.akpk.org.my. We should be on alert at all times to avoid falling prey to these financial scams. Almost all the scams involve the voluntary disclosure of information pertaining to personal bank account details by the victim to a third party. Examples of the information are account number, login ID and password, TAC number and there are also cases where the credit card PIN numbers are given to scam syndicates. Without this confidential information it would not be possible for the syndicates to withdraw money from the victims’ accounts. Avoid being cheated in financial scams by following these tips from AKPK:

• Keep your login ID and password a secret. • Ensure that your password is strong. • Do not share your sensitive and confidential banking information with anyone. • Do not click on any links received through e-mails, SMS or other social media platforms. • Ensure that website addresses and URLs are correct. • Do not panic when you receive a call from an unknown person. Stay calm.

PROPERTY

JCorp to Ensure RM17Billion Investment for Pengerang Industrial Park (PIP)

Government Chief Secretary, Mohd Zuki Ali during his visit to Pengerang

Gunasegaran Munusamy Head, AKPK JB Branch • Do not share your sensitive and confidential banking information with anyone. • Do not easily believe what the scammer tells you without checking it out first. AKPK always advises the public to be careful and vigilant against financial scams especially during this pandemic. AKPK would like to remind everyone again that they do not appoint third party agents to engage with customers on their behalf and their services are free-of-charge for all individuals. During this RMCO, AKPK’s services are still available through an alternative online communication channel via Google Form. Customers can visit their website www.akpk.org. my to scan the QR code and access the Google Form for assistance. Upon submission of the online form, AKPK’s officers will be in touch with the customer as soon as possible. Customers can also call their customer care line 03-2616 7766. Customers can also go to ask.akpk.org.my for tips and get the latest financial information. AKPK would also like to take this opportunity to inform the public that its loan restructuring service under the Debt Management Programme is now available to sole proprietors. This will be helpful to those in business who have been adversely affected by the COVID-19 crisis. We would like to encourage the SMEs who need our assistance to visit our website for more information and visit our branch when feasible to do so. TI

ccording to Johor officials, Pengerang Industrial Park near Kota Tinggi, Johor will become the premier regional hub for downstream processing of oil and gas. The state-owned conglomerate, JCorp has identified RM17Billion worth potential investment for Pengerang Industrial Park (PIP) to be the regional hub for downstream processing of oil and gas (O&G). Through its briefing to Chief Secretary, Datuk Seri Mohd Zuki Ali, the investment would involve aromatic complex operations, petrochemical plants and O&G industrial related support services. Among products to be produced are raw materials for the manufacture of various plastic products for industrial use, car components, paint, engine coolant, synthetic fibre, and products for consumer needs. Also present at the briefing were JCorp

President and Chief Executive, Datuk Syed Mohamed Syed Ibrahim; as well as delegates of the Federal Projects Steering Committee (FPSC) members at the Pengerang Integrated Petroleum Complex (PIPC) and senior State Government officials. The four phase development PIP is estimated to have a gross development value (GDV) of RM1.27 billion. It is set to be fully operational by 2023 and expected to create thousands of skilled and supportive jobs. To date, the platform construction progress as the base for the 790-acre PIP development project has reached 77%. JCorp believes that PIP and RAPID can be enhanced and strengthened as investment destinations as O&G industry hubs with its strategic advantages and through the joint-cooperation of the state and federal governments. - by Norfy Shafeq TI

High Court Allows Country Garden Danga Bay Sdn Bhd’s Applications to Strike out Purchasers’ Suit CGDB also awarded costs for succeeding in their four applications

he High Court of Johor Bahru allowed all four striking out applications filed by Country Garden Danga Bay Sdn Bhd (CGDB) against the suit brought by the plaintiffs (purchasers) of the Danga Bay development. The High Court’s decision in favour of CGDB, decided that the allegations of fraud and/or fraudulently misrepresentation to the purchasers and delivery of units which are different from the design agreed in their Sale and Purchase Agreements, disclosed as no reasonable cause of action against the developer; claims being frivolous and vexatious; and/or an abuse

of process of the Court. The purchasers’ claims on grounds of misrepresentation among others against CGDB are now struck out. The High Court also awarded CGDB costs for succeeding in their four applications. Country Garden Danga Bay Sdn Bhd was represented by Leonard Yeoh and Eri Fu while the purchasers were represented by Viola Decruz and Vinobha Anthony Doss. As a responsible developer and city operator, CGDB strives to provide better services to the residents as well as surrounding communities. CGDB values and constantly welcomes feedback from purchasers to seek clarification or rectification as long as it meets the regulations set by the relevant authorities in the country in which it operates. - by The Iskandarian TI

ISSUE 95 | JULY 2020

THE ISKANDARIAN

PROPERTY

Sunway Citrine Lakehomes Final Phase is Now Up For Sale

he last phase of Sunway Citrine Lakehomes with choices of Link homes and Link Cluster located next to the 20acre Emerald Lake Garden is now open for sale. Made up of 2 Storey Link Houses with lot sizes of 22’ x 80’ and 22’ x 83’ with built up of 2,219 sq.ft. to 2,285 sq.ft. areas, each unit comes with 4 bedrooms and 4 bathrooms. This is your opportunity to be living amongst the tranquility of the lake and its surroundings. A gated and guarded community with CCTV surveillance and intercom system, Citrine Lakehomes has its own

community centre complete with indoor badminton courts and multipurpose hall. Having your outdoor activities in the neighbourhood is a breeze with facilities such as children’s playground, outdoor gym and jogging track to keep you fit. Sunway Citrine Lakehomes is at the lakeview precinct of the 1,800-acre Sunway Iskandar i nte grate d township making Sunway Citrine Hub, Sunway Big Box Retail Park, X-Park and Sunway GRID Hub c l o s e - by. Education institutes such as Sunway International School, and EduCity are few kilometres away and going to work

is hassle free with the neighbourhood being only 5km away to Singapore Second Link. What’s more, the daily public buses (CW3E) to Singapore are also available for residents to board. Under Sunway Property’s ‘Always With

uncertainties of the current situation. During the campaign, homeowners are also able to enjoy exclusive promotion for Sunway Citrine Lakehomes last phase such as RM5,000 Book ing fee, Ex tra Rebates & Move in bonus/

promotions at: Sunway Iskandar Property Sales Gallery • Address: G-01 & 02, Sunway Citrine Hub, Persiaran Medini 3, Bandar Medini Iskandar, 79250 Iskandar Puteri, Johor. • Operation hour: 10.00am – 9.00pm You campaign’, s p e c i a l promotions was launched in response to help homeowners who were affected by the pandemic with rising concerns on job security accompanied b y

incentives and FREE SPA legal, Loan Legal Fee, MOT and Maintenance of 18 months free with Terms and Conditions. 90% of Sunway Citrine Lakehomes are already sold out, so hurry up and grab the final 10% before it is all gone! Drop by the Sales Gallery and find out more about Sunway Citrine Lakehomes and its ‘Always With You’ campaign

• Contact: +607-509 6575 • Waze/Google Maps: Sunway Citrine Hub Registration link: http:// m i s c . s u n w a y. c o m . m y / c r m / s u n wa y i s k a n d a r _ f o r m / r e g i s t e r. aspx?productID=96d1daf0572b-688c-a7beff000068ef51 TI

ISSUE 95 | JULY 2020

THE ISKANDARIAN

PROPERTY

Pandemic COVID-19 Lock Down and the Delivery of Vacant Possession – Part Two

pplication for an extension of time for the delivery of vacant possession due to MCO: In the 2019 case of Ang Ming Lee v. Menteri Kesejahteraan Bandar, Perumahan Dan Kerajaan Tempatan [2020] 1 CLJ 162, the Federal Court decided that the Controller has no powers to grant any extension to a developer for completion of a development under Regulation 11(3) of the Regulations as there is no such provision enabling the Controller to exercise the Minister’s powers. The Federal Court further emphasised that Regulation 11(3) of the Regulations, conferring power on the Controller to waive and modify the terms and conditions of the contract of sale is ultra vires the Act. Thus, based on invalidity of regulation 11(3), the developers are unadvisable to apply for an extension of time under Regulation 11(3) of the Regulations. It is the Minister who is empowered to give directions and to take such other measures for purposes of safeguarding the interests of the purchasers and for carrying into effect the provisions of the Act. Likewise under section 12 of the Act which provides for the powers of the Minister to give general directions as he considers fit, to the licensed housing developer for purposes of ensuring compliance with the Act and such directions, which shall be given in writing, are binding on the developer. The Federal Court also ruled that by virtue of section 24(2)(e) of the Act, the Minister is empowered, or given the discretion, by Parliament to “regulate and prohibit” the terms of the contract of sale. Therefore, the

developers may seek written directions from the Minister under Section 12 of the Act for extension of time to deliver vacant possession. On the other hand, the developers have option to enter an agreement with the purchasers on a new completion date to deliver the vacant possession. This was held in the case of Oxbridge Height Sdn Bhd v Abdul Razak Mohd Yusof [2015] 2 CLJ 252. In this case, the developer was not able to complete the development within the time frame under the SPA and the parties entered into a settlement agreement dated 10th October 2011. Vide the settlement agreement, it was agreed that the new date of completion was 14th August 2011 or 12 months from the signing of the agreement and the purchaser waived the liquidated and ascertained damages (LAD) for late delivery which the appellant was liable to pay under clause 23 of the SPA until the new date of completion. Further, the purchaser shall not take any legal action to recover the LAD. The Appeal Court upheld that the signing of the settlement agreement would fall within the terms of Section 64 of the Contracts Act 1950 which deals with the dispensation of a promise made to a promisee. Further, it was done with a view to save a failing housing project from being an abandoned project and it would be in the public interest and in the interest of house buyers if the law allowed a regulated settlement and waiver of the LAD on terms as specified in the settlement agreement. Therefore, developers are encouraged to take similar step as in Oxbridge Height and attempt to reach a settlement with

Achievement: Forbes Ranks Country Garden No. 111 on its 2020 Global 2000 List of Public Companies

orld renowned magazine Forbes has listed and ranked the Country Garden Group as number 111 on its 2020 Global 2000 list – the top 2000 largest public companies in the world. The Group bagged the coveted spot after reporting USD70.1 billion in sales, USD5.7 billion in profits, USD273.8 billion in total assets, and USD27.8 billion in market value, in 2019. Last year, Forbes placed the Group at number 129. The Country Garden Group has been on the Global 2000 since year 2010, and has been moving upwards on the list for 11 consecutive years, showing strong growth momentum. Forbes’ Global 2000 as well as

the Fortune 500 have been widely recognised as the world’s most authoritative lists of the largest commercial companies globally. Forbes ranks the companies on its yearly list by taking into consideration four major indicators: sales, profits, total assets, and market value – through which it comprehensively selects the largest and most powerful listed companies in the world. In this year’s list, Chinese firms make up 367 of the companies listed – a significant increase from the 58 Chinese companies listed last year. Of the 367 firms, 266 are from mainland China, while 58 are from Hong Kong, and 43 are from Taiwan.

their purchasers on a new completion date to deliver the vacant possession in the event they are affected by the MCO. COVID-19 (Temporary Measures) Bill needed to protect all industries In the absence of a ‘Force Majeure’ clause in Schedule G and H of the Act, MCO poses challenges and risks to all development industry in meeting their various commitments within stipulated period. Therefore, the Real Estate and Housing Developers’ Association Malaysia (REHDA) encourages the government to enact an all-encompassing Force Majeure exemption bill or a COVID-19 (Temporary Measures) Bill to provide a ‘legal shield’ to players of all industries, including the property sector on 8th April 2020. Further, on 14th April 2020, the Master Builders Association Malaysia (MBAM) and REHDA released their joint media statement on their hope that the Government will continue to support the housing and construction industry with the Government’s stimulus package post MCO, regular consultation sessions and continuous dialogues as this will help to reassure housing developers and construction firms about the Government’s recovery plan for the industry when the crisis is over. Again on 6th May 2020, MBAM strongly echoes REHDA Malaysia’s call made on 8th April 2020 for a Force Majeure Bill or a Legislative Intervention, similar to those that have already been enacted in other countries including Australia, Ireland, Scotland, Hungary, United Kingdom (UK Coronavirus Act 2020) and Singapore (COVID-19 (Temporary Measures) Act 2020).

The Forbes report also shows that in 2019, Country Garden’s contract value to realise the equity of the company’s shareholders amounted to about RMB552.2 billion, while reporting about RMB485.91 billion in revenue – and showed a 10% and 28.2% yearon-year increase respectively – as the Group maintains its pole position in the industry. Country Garden’s high-quality work as a developer is well established and recognised. Last year, the company was

Kalaivani Govindasamy Graduated with LLB (Hons) from National University of Malaysia, Kalaivani advises and represents property developers pertaining to real estate and project development. She also advises developers, joint management bodies and management corporations on all matters relating to the Strata Management Act and Strata Titles Act. This Bill will provide legislative protection to all contracting parties from unnecessary litigations and furnish temporary relief for businesses and individuals who are unable to meet their contractual obligations during this period. In nutshell, we hope this knowledge sharing will attempt some guidance on late delivery of vacant possession on the effects of the COVID-19 MCO to construction industry. Even though, we have listed down the suggestions to the developers, but it depends on government to give due consideration to the bill as the construction industry truly need some ‘breathing space’ for an expeditious recovery, otherwise it is still open for parties to argue. TI

ranked 177 on the Fortune 500 list, and was noted as the fastest rising company that year. At present, Country Garden has been awarded investment grade BBBcorporate credit rating by Fitch Ratings, while Standard & Poor’s and Moody’s have given the Group BB+ and Ba1 ratings respectively. In August 2019, Moody’s raised its outlook on Country Garden from “stable” to “positive”, reflecting the market’s confidence in Country Garden Group’s future growth. - by Priya Manikam TI

ISSUE 95 | JULY 2020

THE ISKANDARIAN

PROPERTY

Property Purchasers Snap Up RM200 Million Worth of Properties over the MCO Period Digital campaign launched to enable potential buyers to purchase their dream homes

hrough Sunway Property’s digital campaign, “Always With You”, hundreds of home purchasers have snapped up RM200 million worth of its properties in less than a month since the campaign rolled out in end of April during the Movement Control Order (MCO) period. The campaign took into account the current conditions and rise in uncertainties, with Sunway Property assisting eligible buyers with financial aid and competitive pricing so that everyone can own their dream homes. Sunway Property Managing Director, Sarena Cheah said that the campaign was launched in response to the COVID-19 situation. “The ‘Always With You’ campaign was launched in response from the feedback we had from customers who were still keen to own a home but were cautious of the economic conditions as a result of the pandemic. To minimise their risk for home

ownership, we have included a voluntary exit plan as part of the campaign,” she added. Due to the pandemic, there are rising concerns on job securities accompanied by uncertainties of the current situation. As such, the voluntary exit plan is being put in place to allow customers to still purchase their dream homes with an ease of mind as they are able to exit the purchase in the event of loss of employment and obtain a refund. The voluntary exit plan is also applicable in cases of disability or critical illness up to 12 months from the signing of the Sales and Purchase Agreement or up to vacant possession, whichever is earlier. During the campaign, homeowners are also able to enjoy a subsidy of up to RM50,000, interest-free instalment plan of up to 24 months, a flexi financing scheme to cater to different customer needs and opt for a guaranteed loan up to 95% by Sunway. Cheah added that the digital campaign was launched in tandem with the shift in customers’ behaviours as a result of the MCO and Sunway Property will continue to focus on social media and online digital marketing channels to reach out to

Sunway landed properties awaits its new homeowners interested buyers. “As consumers shifted their purchases online during the MCO, we had doubled up our customer engagement online, interacting with our customers through virtual tours, live chats and other digital channels. During our engagement with them, some of our customers highlighted their concerns about uncertainty yet are increasingly aware of the need to have well-built and well-designed homes, and the importance of homes as safe havens as they are spending more time at home because of the pandemic.” “As a result of the campaign, purchasers have snapped up RM200 million worth of properties, signalling to us that the demand is still strong. And for that, we have our home purchasers to thank, for

their trust in our brand,” she said. The campaign includes Sunway Property’s latest properties including seven developments in the Klang Valley (Sunway GEOLake Condo and Townhouse, Sunway Gandaria, Sunway Avila, Infiniti 3, Sunway Serene and Sunway Subang), one in Ipoh (Sunway Onsen Suites), three in Penang (Sunway Cassia Semi-D and Terrace and Sunway Wellesley), and five in Johor (Sunway Citrine Lakehomes, Sunway Citrine Residences, Sunway Emerald Residence, Sunway GRID Residence, and Sunway Lenang Heights). Customers can log on to https://www. sunwayproperty.com/alwayswithyou/ to arrange for a personal call for a step-bystep guide for online bookings. - by Priya Manikam TI

Mah Sing’s Campaign saw Over 4000 Eligible Entries Mah Sing hosts pilot digital lucky draw event “Lock & Win Final Countdown” campaign with an aim to win big

ah Sing Group Berhad (Mah Sing) recently hosted its very first digital lucky draw event for its “Lock & Win Final Countdown” campaign, which saw positive response throughout the campaign period with over 4,000 eligible lucky draw entries. The digital lucky draw event, broadcasted on the Group’s official Facebook was well received with over 14,000-reach recorded to-date since it went live on 20th June 2020. Mah Sing had its “Lock & Win Final Countdown” campaign was from 1 March 2019 to 31 December 2019. The lucky draw was originally scheduled for Q1 2020 but was delayed due to the Movement Control Order. Mah Sing’s Chief Executive Officer, Datuk Ho Hon Sang drew the ballot along with other senior management members of the Group for 50 lucky winners, who walked away with attractive cash prizes. The lucky draw proceedings and entire process was audited and validated by Deloitte PLT. Lee Jiunn Jie, 33, a home buyer of Lakeville Residence in Taman Wahyu, Batu Caves expressed his happiness after finding

out that he is one of the lucky winners for the “Lock & Win Final Countdown” campaign. “It was my first time winning a prize in a lucky draw. This happiness came as such a surprise to me,” he said. “I had to re-watch the draw multiple times to assure myself that I was truly the winner,” said Edward Lan, 29, a home buyer of M Centura in Sentul expressing his excitement upon receiving the news. The “Lock & Win Final Countdown” campaign was opened to all Mah Sing purchasers who have successfully booked their respective properties within the campaign period. For a property to be successfully booked and be included in this campaign, the Sale and Purchase Agreement (SPA) have to be executed or signed, and the minimum amount paid in accordance with the terms and conditions during the campaign period. Datuk Ho Hon Sang said, “We place customers delight as a priority. We are thrilled that our “Lock & Win Final Countdown” campaign managed to garner positive response throughout the campaign period. In line with our tagline, ‘Reinvent Spaces. Enhance Life,” we will continue to come up with innovative campaigns and initiatives to continue enhancing our customers’ home ownership journey.” “We are currently running our Eazy to Own campaign, which enables homebuyers to own their dream home easily with a financing plan that is easy on their wallet,

whilst easing their home ownership journey. We have also partnered with Maybank Islamic to offer HouzKEY, an alternative home financing solution, and limited units of selected Mah Sing projects will be offered under this pilot initiative of Eazy to Own campaign,” Datuk Ho Hon Sang elaborated. In partnership with HouzKEY, Mah Sing’s Eazy to Own unique value prepositions include: 1. Zero Down Payment Homebuyers will be able to enjoy zero down payment with only 1% deposit, allowing customers to secure their ideal home. 2. Ze ro Pay m e nt s during Construction Period Homebuyers will only be required to service their payment upon completion of the project and after the vacant possession stage, allowing customers to save up their money during the construction period. 3. Zero Uncertainties Homebuyers will be able to lock in today’s property purchase price, enabling purchasers to enjoy the 100% capital gain. 4. Zero Worries Homebuyers will be able to enjoy lower monthly payments, allowing buyers to have more cash flow and reduce their expenditure. The Eazy to Own campaign has been crafted to address specific pain points in customers’ home ownership journey. It is

targeted at three key demographics: first time homebuyers and upgraders; as well as people who are looking to purchase a property but unable to afford a high down payment. Participating projects under HouzKEY include M Luna, Kepong; M Oscar, Off Kuchai Lama; M Centura in Sentul, M Vertica, Cheras, Sensory Residence in Southville City, KL South as well as landed residential developments in Mah Sing’s Meridin East townships in Johor such as The Hazel, The Orchid, and The Acacia. The offering will also be extended to other Mah Sing projects in the near future. - byThe Iskandarian TI

Mah Sing’s Chief Executive Officer, Datuk Ho Hon Sang Drawing the ballot at the “Lock & Win Final Countdown” Campaign Pilot Digital Lucky Draw Event

26 04

The Iskandarian ISSUE 95 | JULY 2020 Advertisement