The Iskandarian January 2017 Issue by The Iskandarian-WAVES Lifestyle

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The Iskandarian ISSUE 53 | JAN 2017

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Iskandar Malaysia: 10Years and Beyond Read on pg2

Prime Minister of Malaysia Dato’ Seri Mohd Najib Tun Razak and Menteri Besar Johor Datuk Seri Khaled Nordin viewing the wall of acheivements at the launch of Iskandar Malaysia’s 10 years (IM10) anniversary celebration

The Iskandarian Do’s & Don’ts The good, the bad and the ugly of fellow Iskandarians

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streets A Decade of Sustainable Development

Our Friends

Benchmark

Prime Minister announced special funds and allocations for Johor folks at Iskandar Malaysia’s ten year anniversary celebration

skandar Malaysia reached the first decade milestone in its journey towards becoming a sustainable international metropolis by end of 2016. In its wake, it has attracted a total cumulative investment worth RM221billion, 56% higher than the projected RM141 billion set when it was first established. Prime Minister of Malaysia Dato’ Seri Mohd Najib Tun Razak officially launched the anniversary celebration in Educity Sports Complex in Iskandar Puteri, recently. He was there as part of a two day itinerary visiting the state. The Prime Minister was pleased with the increase in numbers of Iskandarians in the M40 group that has drastically improved through these seven years. A 7.9% increase was recorded for the RM3000 to RM5000 monthly wage bracket, while the RM5000 to RM10000 saw an increase of 9.8%. “I am astonished at the numbers for the B40 group which

earns less than RM3000 monthly has decreased by 7.7%,” said Najib, adding that the latest report from the department of Statistics points out that Johorians’ household income increased by 14.4% from 2012 to 2014, making it the highest among the states. Chief Executive of Iskandar Regional Development Authority (IRDA) Datuk Ismail Ibrahim said that the hike was due to the result of strategic, comprehensive and meticulous planning of the Comprehensive Development Plan Iskandar Malaysia (CDP). “About 702,000 jobs have been created in various economic sectors including the services sector such as logistics, creative, tourism and education, since the inception of Iskandar Malaysia,” said Ismail. He added that Iskandar Malaysia is on track to realise its long-term goal and the region will continue to attract a steady flow

Two New Schools Open in Plentong PEGASUS INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL

Gleneagles MEDINI

“In The Arms Of One Who Cares”

Highlight

Private and international schools will meet local demands, says Menteri Besar Johor

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lentong is now home to two new schools, known as Paragon Private and International School. Built on a 10-acre piece of land, the schools will be able to accommodate up to 2,000 students. The campus includes a modern concept library and a swimming pool. Students will have a choice between an international syllabus including the International General Certificate of Secondary Education (IGCSE), Singapore syllabus and a private national school curriculum. Menteri Besar Johor Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled

Nordin who graced the site visit programme said that the schools will meet the demands of the locals. “Many parents in Johor and Johor Bahru send their children to Singapore for education. “I have always emphasised that entrepreneurs in Johor have an opportunity to venture into private and international education in this region as there is a demand, and I’m happy that there is a response to that through the opening of this school,” he said. The schools are now open for enrolment and will start operating on 2nd January 2017. - by Thamayanthy Rajendran TI

Prime Minister of Malaysia Dato’ Seri Mohd Najib Tun Razak witnessed by Datuk Ismail Ibrahim and Datuk Seri Khaled Nordin launched Iskandar Malaysia’s 10 years anniversary celebration of investment with projects which benefit the community of Iskandar Malaysia. Th e Pr i m e M i n i s te r also announced a RM2million special fund allocation for young entrepreneurs of Kilang Bateri as well as an allocation of RM5million for a new mosque in Taman Bayu

Damai, Pengerang on that day. Also present at the event was former Prime Minister Tun Dato’ Seri Haji Abdullah bin Haji Ahmad Badawi and former Johor Menteri Besar, Tan Sri Dato’ Haji Abdul Ghani bin Othman along with Menteri Besar Johor Datuk Seri Khaled Nordin. - by Hakim Malik TI

Prime Minister Unveils Fastrack City

rime Minister, Dato’ Seri Najib Tun Razak was present in Johor to unveil a new upcoming development in Iskandar Puteri. Fastrack City is set to be Asia’s premier auto sports destination with its planned integrated features that will become an iconic destination and leader in the automotive arena. The 4.5 KM circuit and other amenities will be built on a 300 acre land plot and will be an International Automobile Federation Grade 1 and International Motorcycling Federation (FIM) grade A international circuit, designed by world renowned Hermann Tilke. The development will also have a dedicated go kart track, hill climb, skid pan as well as a 4x4 track for offroad enthusiasts. The existence of Fastrack City will add on to the country’s reputation made by the Sepang International Circuit, in addition to organising the Shell Grand Prix, Petronas Formula 1 Grand Prix as well as the 12 Hour Sepang Endurance race, which is one of four of such events held in the world.” “Its presence will

The Prime Minister, Dato’ Seri Najib Tun Razak (centre) with Crown Prince of Johor, Tunku Ismail Sultan Ibrahim (left) and delegates during the launch ceremony enhance our ability to provide enthusiasts, engineering talent and people within the region to access other recreational sports that are suitable for families and friends,” said Najib during the logo launch and design unveiling of Fastrack City at Pinewoods Iskandar. He added that the project will create economic opportunities and jobs, mainly in the tourism, engineering, hospitality and retail industries. Najib also expects the project to attract 350,000 tourists into Malaysia every year. Also present during the launch was Crown Prince of Johor, Tunku Ismail Sultan Ibrahim who is the Chairman of Fastrack City, as well as

Menteri Besar Johor Datuk Seri Khaled Nordin. Fastrack City will be located at Gerbang Nusajaya, Iskandar Puteri, 10 minutes away from the Second Link and is developed in collaboration with FASTrack Iskandar Sdn. Bhd, through FASTrack Autosports Pte Ltd and with the joint venture with UEM Land Berhad through its subsidiary UEM Sunrise. The project will consist of dedicated retail and F&B outlets, a high security automotive vault as well as other amenities including petrol stations, recreational park and everything you need to fill your automotive needs. - by Amin Khairuddin TI

Published by True Soul Media PLT [No.51-B, Jalan Impian Emas 5/1, Taman Impian Emas, 81300 Johor Bahru] Printed by Twinstar Synergy Sdn. Bhd. [Lot2A, Jln 13/2, Seksyen 13, 46200, Petaling Jaya, Selangor] Copyright of articles, contributions and photos which are published by The Iskandarian is the property of True Soul Media PLT. The Iskandarian does its best to ensure the authenticity and accuracy of its contents, the publisher cannot accept any responsibilities for errors, mistakes and inaccuracies. The publisher reserves the rights of this product and no part of this publication may be reproduced in any form or by any means without the permission of the publisher.

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streets

Fighting Against Counterfeit Ciggies Enforcement

Stiff penalties await ignorant retailers

he state government will never compromise on counterfeit goods smuggled or sold especially illicit cigarettes and alcohol in Johor. Johor Bahru Mayor, A. Rahim Nin said the Johor Bahru City Council (MBJB) enforcement unit will team up with other agencies to ensure any smugglers or business owners who sell illicit cigarettes be caught. “MBJB will cooperate with the Domestic Trade, Cooperatives and Consumerism Ministry (KPDNKK) and Customs Department to undergo investigations and to check on suspected retailers who sells illicit cigarettes and alcohol,” said Rahim during the launching ceremony of campaign against the sale of smuggled goods. Also present were Johor Deputy Director of Customs Department, Ibrahim Sulaiman and KPDNKK Officer, Rizq Fazliana Abd Hamid. Rahim added that retailers who are believed to sell counterfeit goods should stop immediately as they will face heavy penalties if caught red-handed.

Mayor of Johor Bahru, A. Rahim Nin trying out one of the spy gadgets to detect counterfeit goods “Retailers who were caught for selling counterfeit goods especially cigarettes will have their licences revoked and if convicted, they will not have the permission to operate their business anymore,” said Rahim. If convicted, illegal cigarette sellers can be jailed up to three years, fined up to 20 times the values of the seized items under Section 135(1)(d) of the Customs Act 1967. by Syakirin Daud TI

UEM Sunrise’s Back-toSchool Programme Highlight

The Company brought cheer to 146 orang asli children in Kampung Simpang Arang, Gelang Patah at the ‘Back-to-School’ programme

The event was graced by the Political EM Sunrise Berhad (UEM Sunrise) through its corporate responsibility Secretary to the Menteri Besar of Johor, initiative had successfully organised Tuan Haji Mohammad Khairi A. Malik who a ‘Back-to-School’ programme presented the ‘Back-to-School’ items to the with 146 children of Orang Asli community Orang Asli children along with Jeff Seong in Kampung Simpang Arang, Gelang Patah, Kiat. The programme was also attended by representative from Jabatan Kemajuan Orang recently. Introduced in 2013, the ‘Back-to- Asli (“JAKOA”) Johor Bahru as well as fellow School’ Programme eased the burden of villagers of Kampung Simpang Arang, Gelang the families involved towards the preparation Patah. Apart from this event, UEM Sunrise of their children for the 2017 school session. The primary and secondary students received also organised numerous CSR events that school supplies which included two sets of focuses on High Order Thinking Skills (“HOTS”) school uniforms, a set of socks and school development such as Academic Excellence shoe as well as a school bag amounting to Programme, Road Safety Programme, Motivational Camp, and Library Enhancement approximately RM250.00 per person. To date, more than 500 Orang Asli Programme exclusively for UEM Sunrise’s students from Kampung Simpang Arang PINTAR Schools Adoption Programme in Iskandar Puteri. TI have benefited from this programme. “We wanted to make sure the school-going children are ready for school with their basic necessities in place. We hope that our contribution will bring smiles to these children’s faces,” said UEM Sunrise’s Puteri Harbour Project Director, Jeff Seong Group photo with part of the students during the presentation Kiat. ceremony

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Courts to Establish New Shared Services Centre of Excellence in Iskandar Puteri

Lucky Kitties Receive New Love Community

Highlight

New centre will boost high-value and knowledge-based employment opportunities in the region

outheast Asia’s leading electrical, IT and furniture retailer Courts Asia Limited (Courts) will establish its Shared Services Centre of Excellence (Courts Solution Centre) in Iskandar Puteri. Supported by GBS ISKANDAR (Global Business Services), Courts Solution Centre will create more high-value and knowledge-based employment opportunities in the region within the next five years. The establishment of Courts Asia’s Shared Services Solution Centre was announced by Prime

Minister Dato’ Seri Mohd Najib Tun Abdul Razak during the launch of Iskandar Malaysia 10th Anniversary (IM10) celebration in Educity. “Courts Solution Centre will drive Iskandar Malaysia to new heights with the creation of high-value knowledge-based jobs while leveraging on Iskandar Puteri’s strategic location as the best nearshore to Singapore,” said Zulfiqar Zainuddin, Managing Director of i2M Ventures Sdn Bhd, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Khazanah Nasional Berhad

that manages the GBS ISKANDAR strategic investment programme promotion initiative. Courts Solution Centre will join the growing GBS ISKANDAR community such as Frost & Sullivan, Brandt International, Vistra Global, and Odinsoft to name a few. As of November 2016, GBS ISKANDAR has attracted a total committed investment value of RM1.4 billion and 2,800 jobs from local and multinational companies within the last three years. - by Hakim Malik TI

The Home of Sports Revolution Transformation

ho doesn’t love k i t te n s ? M a s l e e Express and SPCA Johor recently teamed up for their first Cat Adoption Drive initiative at Maslee Larkin Aman in support of getting pet owners for 30 rescued stray kittens and cats. As most residents in Larkin Aman area were getting ready for their grocery shopping, they stopped by and decided to fill up the adoption forms to show their love towards the felines apart from getting certificates and vouchers for a years’ worth of cat food supplies. “I adopted a kitten today for my daughter. As we hold this little one, it will replace the previous cat

that we lost at our shop. I hope my daughter will be happy with her new companion,” said Hasmah Abd Malek who was on her way for grocery shopping at Maslee. Housewife Norwaheeda Omar with her three kids carved with smiles upon agreeing to bring back home a kitten as their first pet experience since playing with their neighbour’s cats. Branch Manager of Maslee Larkin Aman, Hanifah Sidek mentioned that its outlet was the first to host such an event and felt like it is a call to give back to the society as the cats are now in the safe hands of their new pet owners and to foster care on pets among all walks of life. - by Maressa Esa TI

Four stadiums with international facilities to be completed before 2020

fter successfully uplifting the country’s football scene with Johor Darul Takzim (JDT) Football Club, Johor is moving forward to be a pioneer of sports transformation by building four more stadiums with world class facilities. Prime Minister Dato’ Seri Najib Tun Razak during the stadium launch congratulated Menteri Besar Johor Datuk Seri Khaled Nordin for the great initiative done by the state to improve sports facilities for the benefit of the people. “This was not a pointless expense but a promising long term investment for Johor and Malaysia”, said Najib during the launching ceremony at Tan Sri Dato’ Haji Hassan Yunos stadium in Larkin, Johor Bahru. Khaled Nordin said the stadium project will give opportunity for the people to be active in sports thus creating a healthy society. He also emphasised on uniting people through sports. “Sports can be a uniting tool for a multi ethnic country like Malaysia. No race, religion or age counts in it. Everyone is the same because sports is a universal element,” said Khaled. He also said that the stadium is a preparation for Johor before

hosting the Sukma Games in 2020. The stadium project consisting of Arena Larkin and Mount Austin track and field stadium will be built by two main state companies namely Johor Corporation (JCorp) and Kumpulan Prasarana Rakyat Johor Sdn Bhd (KPRJ Sdn Bhd). The Mount Austin track and field stadium which is worth RM89 million has the capacity of hosting 5000 people. This stadium will consist of futsal courts, running track, training field, a world class

gymnasium and also a clinic. Arena Larkin project, which is worth RM350 million covering 104 acres of land will include the modification of Tan Sri Hassan Yunos Stadium into a full football stadium, upgrading the current swimming complex into an aquatic centre and also a construction of a new Johor Bahru City Council indoor stadium with a seating capacity of 7000 people. This project is estimated to be completed by year 2020. - by Syakirin Daud TI

Malaysian Prime Minister Dato’ Seri Najib Tun Razak with Menteri Besar Johor Datuk Seri Khaled Nordin during the stadium projects explanation session

Visitors at the SPCA Johor-Maslee Express cat adoption drive

Fun Happenings at Thomas Great Race

anrio Hello Kitty and Thomas Town had organised ‘Thomas Great Race: An Appreciation Party’ recently, as a gesture to appreciate their strategic partners in helping them make such a great entertainment spot for everyone to experience. General Manager of Sanrio Hello Kitty Town and Thomas Town, Fahruddin Najumudeen said Thomas Town’s current progress will never be possible without the support from everyone. “We can never provide all this joyous experience and precious memories without the commitment, hardwork and full support from our partners and friends. We truly look forward for your support and partnership as we celebrate our fifth years’ of operation soon,” said Fahruddin during his speech at Thomas Town

Johor Police HQ 07-221 2999 / 07-225 4499

Nusajaya Police IPD 07-511 4222

Tourism Malaysia Hotline 1300 88 5050

Johor Tourism 07-223 4935 / 224 9960

JB South Police IPD 07-2218 999

Ministry of Tourism (Johor) 07-223 3171

Tourism Malaysia Johor 07-222 3590 / 91

Immigration 07-224 4233

Hotlines

30 kittens and cats adopted within two hours

in Puteri Harbour. During the event, the participants of Thomas Great Race had one Thomas character stickers including Gordon, Percy, Edward, Toby, James, Henry and Thomas itself on their shirt. A group of seven people had to find hidden clues around Thomas Town area in order to complete a mysterious puzzle. While completing their missions, participants also enjoyed singing and dancing together with special appearance characters including Barney and Friends.

Thomas and Friends’ appearance before the games

Senai International Airport 07-599 4500

Iskandar Regional Development Authority (IRDA) 07-233 3000

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streets

The Pasar Seri Austin is Open for Business Highlight

More imported products at mid-range prices

nother milestone for Seri Austin as ‘The Pasar’ has been officially launched and open for business to the residents around Seri Austin, Setia Indah and Bandar Dato’ Onn. The mid-end grocer was officiated by UMLand Seri Austin Chief Executive Officer, KK Wong and Senior Manager of The Pasar, Lee Boon Lye and they received

a warm opening as the crowd started flocking and making their grocery purchases. Pauline Perera made her first bargain of fresh meat, chicken and other products from The Pasar en route to work and expressed her satisfaction on the overall product prices and freshness level. “The Pasar is about 5000 square feet and it is at a 40-60 ratio of imported and local products.

Not only offering an assortment of fresh and packaged goods, the grocer also caters non-halal products in a separate section,” said Lee during the launch. According to Lee, The Pasar also drafted big plans of branching out into Iskandar Puteri and Pengerang within two years’ time. The Pasar opens daily from 10am to 10pm and is located at Jalan Seri Austin ½. - by Maressa Esa TI

Senior Manager of The Pasar, Lee Boon Lye (in blue shirt) and The Pasar staff

Think City: Johor Bahru’s Second Cycle of Urban Rejuvenation Grants

hose with a keen interest in physical conservation of buildings in downtown Johor Bahru are encouraged to participate in round two of the JB Think City Grants Programme. “Par ticipation and interest from the community in our first 7 months here has been encouraging. It’s a definite indicator that Johorians are eager for a more inclusive and liveable

city,” said Daniel Lim, Programme Manager of Think City in Johor Bahru. Some examples of efforts that qualify for this public grant are the preservation and protection of physical and intangible heritage, building communities and activating under-used spaces. Eight shop houses are currently undergoing façade treatment as part of the JB Transformation plan, in collaboration between Think

City and Johor Bahru City Council (MBJB). Since 2009, the grants programme has funded 316 projects in all four Think City locations. The grants range from RM10,000 to RM200,000 depending on the type of project. Individuals and/or organisations are invited to apply for funding from Think City. Potential projects should involve environments of historic

significance or public facilities; improve economic or social conditions of communities within Think City zones, encourage intercultural participation; act as a positive catalyst and is financially viable. Research-based initiatives relating to city, culture or community will also be considered. Think City does not fund routine maintenance and internal works of private properties, construction work already

underway and one-off performing arts projects. Think City is open to receiving grant applications on a rolling basis but participants are encouraged to apply by 31st January 2017 for immediate review. To apply or find out more, visit www.thinkcity.com. my or email to tcgrants@thinkcity. com.my. Alternatively, contact Programme Manager Daniel Lim at 07-2200536. TI

Rotaract Club Brings Smiles to Children’s Faces Highlight

n an effort to share the joy of Christmas, the Rotaract Club Johor Bahru organised a Christmas Roadshow at Skudai Parade Shopping Complex. The roadshow was attended by 60 underprivileged children from three homes across Johor Bahru and Kulai. According to former President of Rotaract Club Johor Bahru, Sharveen Tiwari, it was the sixth time the club was holding such event. “Apart from visiting homes and buying them groceries, we wanted to do something else for the children so that they can come out and have fun, and that’s how this roadshow was formed,” she said.

Christmas Roadshow entertained underprivileged children The activities of the roadshow included performances by each home, games, carolling and lunch at KFC. J a y a g a n e s Kunasegaran, the President of Rotaract Club Johor Bahru

hoped that the club would gain more active members. “ We need more people, especially youths like us to step up and do their part for the community, said Jayaganes. - by Thamayanthy Rajendran TI

Children from Pusat Kebajikan Kalvari Johor giving a performance

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Young Photographers Giving Their Best Shot Interest

Photography contest for international school students to show their talent

ictures are words of the mind. A mind will mobilise intuition to take pictures as the mind acknowledges the meaning of beauty. It is interesting to learn about beauty from youngsters, as their minds are still in a clear state. In order to help the youngsters sharpen their creativity and photography skills, Eastern & Oriental Berhad (E&O) in partnership with The Expat Group (TEG) had organised a photography competition titled ‘Johor International Schools Young Photographers Contest’. The competition had managed to gain participation

from international schools around Johor including Marlborough College Malaysia, Excelsior International School, Japanese School Johor, Tenby International School, Raffles American School and Sri Ara School. About 28 contestants from 14 to 17 years of age had been shortlisted under senior category while 8 participants from 10 to 13 years of age qualified for the finals under the junior category. The photography competition took place at Avira Sales Gallery in Iskandar Puteri, which also had several related activities like photography workshop by professional

photographer, Daniel Ooi, photo exhibition and awards ceremony. 11 year old Alexandria Alputri Binti Mohd Khairul with her photo entitled ‘Culture Belied by Nature’ won the contest for the junior category. “I feel very happy and excited. I did not expect to be the winner as this is my first attempt joining a photography contest,” said Alexandria, the only representative from Sri Ara School. She also said that her photo, which portrayed a line of trees during winter at Kartepe, Turkey, was taken using a Samsung Galaxy Note 4. Both junior and senior

Million Dollar Feet Winners Made It to the UK Sportsmanship

Homebrewed heroes get a taste of English football

The two winners posing for a photo opportunity with the Nottingham Forest Under 16 team joined by MDF Head Coach Steve McMahon (far left), Brickfields Asia College representative Aria Singham (front, second from right), MDF Founder and Director of Football Peter de Kretser (front, second from left), and MDF Tournament Director Leong Delon (front, first from left)

he winners of the Million Dollar Feet (MDF) Malaysian Grand Final participated in a trial training session at the prestigious Nottingham Forest, United Kingdom training facility as the programme reached its climax. Footballing scouts from

across English Premier League and First Division such as Manchester United, Liverpool, Chelsea, Everton, Nottingham Forest and Derby County among others attended the trials. The boys, Adam Roshan and Muhd Yusry were put through a series of football drills

and games, together with the Nottingham Forest under-16 team. Challenges during the two-hour session included passing, shooting, decision-making and match-play. “It has been an unbelievable experience and something I will carry forward in my aspirations towards becoming a top footballer,” said Adam. Yusry who shared similar thoughts said, “It’s been a long journey from Malaysia and the cold weather is something we have not experienced before. I am happy with the way I performed and hope for an opportunity in the future.” MDF Head Coach and Liverpool legend Steve McMahon said that he was excited for the boys and impressed with their performance. The programme concluded with a visit to Liverpool’s home ground Anfield, where the winners had the chance to watch a live Premier League match. - by Thamayanthy Rajendran TI

General Manager of AVIRA Medini Iskandar, Benjamin Ong handing a trophy to Alexandria, the winner for junior category categories received a cash prize of RM300 for third runner-up, RM400 for second runner-up and RM500

for the first runner-up along with a certificate of achievement and trophies. - by Syakirin Daud TI

#PRAY4HSA Raised RM15000 Causes

The charity carnival raised RM15000 to buy and replace equipment destroyed in the Hospital Sultanah Aminah fire

00 participants partook in the recent #PRAY4HSA charity carnival in Educity sports complex. Organised by Educity and supported by Hospital Sultanah Aminah Johor Bahru, the carnival was able to raise funds to buy and replace equipment that were destroyed in the recent tragic fire.

The event managed to raise RM15000 for the cause. The main event for the carnival was the 5k fun run around Educity. Running enthusiasts along with families and students took on the road in support of the fund raiser. Participants from all ages also enjoyed the Zumba sessions on that day, along with various booths selling a wide array of merchandises ranging from health food to bubble kits for the children. Also there on that day was Medini Food trucks, serving a variety of cuisines Kids leading the pack at the flag off for the 5k fun on wheels. - by Hakim run at the #PRAY4HSA charity carnival Malik TI

Improving Environmental Sustainability Community

PTP volunteers and Gelang Patah residents join in for communal work to clean school

ort of Tanjung Pelepas (PTP) gives back to the society by improving the environment and general lifestyle of its local community by organising its annual “PTP 2016 Gotong Royong Perdana” at Sekolah Kebangsaan Tiram Duku, Gelang Patah. More than 100 PTP volunteers, parents and teachers took part in the programme to clean and renew the school compound. This is the fifth time PTP

has organised such an event after it was first launched in 2013. The programme cultivated the spirit of togetherness and promoted greater awareness on the wellbeing of the public amenities where PTP operates. PTP Chief Executive Officer, Marco Nelseen said, “PTP is ever committed in giving back to the community and strengthening the sense of solidarity amongst its staff and local people through the

spirit of volunteerism. The event also provided an avenue for these school children to learn more on the importance of taking care of their school surroundings.” SK Tiram Duku headmistress, Norhawa Yusuf said, “The school management highly appreciates the effort taken by PTP to organise such event and help the school to maintain its facilities and overall cleanliness. The parents now have a much better understanding of the

Students and parents taking part during the gotong royong activity importance of having a conducive learning environment whereas the students are now more motivated to change their habits to ensure that their school remain clean and

beautiful.” In 2016 alone, PTP has organised various CSR programmes for the local community’s betterment. - by Priya Manikam TI

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DRILL streets

Q&A

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Monthly Drill Interview By Editor Patricia Chew hails from the United Kingdom and she came to Malaysia in 1986. A mother of four and an entrepreneur, Patricia brought the flavours of the west and shared it with many. The first George & Dragon Cafe opened in Taman Tasek back in 2002, and since then she has been at the forefront of the local food and beverage industry. In 2011, she opened a second outlet in Johor Premium Outlets and now the business has grown into a steady chain of outlets with the opening of a third branch in Genting Highlands which is set to be operational in 2017. The restaurants have a classic English touch offering traditional British Cuisine and are famous for its homemade cheesecake. Patricia strives for perfection and retains the authentic ambiance and flavours of her homeland at her cafes.

BIO

You have been in the F&B industry for over 14 years, how much has the local landscape changed since then? The local scene has changed tremendously. There is a greater sense of confidence that the local market is ready to try new cuisines and concepts. The return of people who have been working abroad has encouraged many restaurateurs with new and exciting talents to come into the Johor Bahru market. As a result, there is now a growing and vibrant scene of independent restaurants, cafes and coffee shops in Johor Bahru. This of course, means more competition for George & Dragon Café but it is a positive development as it keeps us creative and encourages us to explore the new ideas. The other big change since George & Dragon Café opened in 2002 is the role of social media in the food & beverage industry. It allows us to interact with our customers in a much more dynamic way. We can inform our customers of our events and new menu items.

Do you see the current wave of restaurants in town a rising trend that will fade? The arrival of many new restaurants in town, I believe, will continue. Dining out in Malaysia is such an important part of the local culture that there will always be excitement about

Patricia Chew

and Chips are very popular. We always have specials which are additional to the A la Carte. So, regular customers can expect something new as well. The Café also has a wide selection of wines and beers to be enjoyed with a meal with friends and family. George & Dragon Café also celebrates all major events such as Christmas, St Valentine’s Day, Mother’s Day and Father’s Day, St Patrick’s Day, St George’s Day and Halloween! We enjoy dressing up the restaurants on these occasions so our patrons can expect to be surprised when they come. We also have special dishes for these events like Irish Stew for St Patrick’s Day and Roast Beef and Yorkshire pudding for St George’s Day and, of course, Roast Turkey for Christmas. We are happy to serve customers whether they come in just for a cup of coffee and warm homemade scones or for a four course set menu for twenty people.

Why did you decide to open an outlet in Genting Highlands?

Entrepreneur

George & Dragon Cafe new choices in town. Of course, running a restaurant is a tough business, especially if the economy is not robust, so we will probably see restaurants being successful and others finding it too difficult to keep going.

Your opinion on the local tourism industry and how can it can help the F&B industry One of the most important experiences for tourists is food and beverages especially in Malaysia which is famous for its amazing variety of food. When tourists visit our local food outlets in town, they not only satisfy their hunger but also experience the local culture and interact with their hosts. Therefore, the tourism industry needs to ensure that the variety and standards of food outlets in Johor are promoted prominently in any tourism campaigns. Tourism has numerous aspects to consider in helping the F&B industry such as transportation, sanitation, accommodation, attractions, and events. If these aspects are well developed, they will encourage people to visit Johor and its food outlets. In turn, potential restaurant owners will be encouraged to develop their businesses to a higher standard, which will attract more visitors. I feel that in the 15 years that George & Dragon Café has been open,

there have been many improvements in the infrastructure to support tourism and we have seen an increase in guests from many different countries. However, the local tourism industry cannot develop in isolation. Good communication and cooperation with other local government departments is essential so that there is clear signage, security and an educated local population with the skills required for the F&B industry. As these aspects improve I am sure we will continue to experience an even more vibrant food and beverage scene.

What can patrons expect when they walk into one of your outlets? George & Dragon Café offers a relaxed atmosphere. It is instantly recognisable as a little bit of England in Johor! The décor lets visitors know that the Cafe is like no other in Johor Bahru. The old and interesting antiques from the United Kingdom all add to give our patrons a unique dining experience. The menu is wide ranging and offers a good variety of well-loved dishes that many of our patrons have experienced when dining overseas. Our food is cooked to order and prepared with quality ingredients to bring out the best flavours of the food. Our signature dish is Grilled Steak and our traditional Fish

George & Dragon Café has enjoyed a successful 5 years in Johor Premium Outlets. Genting Simon Sdn Bhd (GSSB) is developing its second Premium Outlets in Malaysia at Genting Highlands. The Café was invited to continue its relationship with GSSB so we are pleased to say we will be opening our third branch in Genting Highlands Premium Outlets in 2017. It is a very exciting project in which we are looking forward to participating.

How can the local service industry improve with the growing number of tourists in the state? The best way to improve the service industry is through education. Those opening and running their own businesses need to be educated and well trained in their field and understand good business practices. The public enjoying the products of the service industry needs to be informed through advertisements, events and attractions as to what is available and what to expect. George & Dragon Café prides itself on providing a quality product and good service so that patrons enjoy their visits to our outlets and want to come back again when they have an occasion to celebrate. We have achieved this by providing a good standard of service. The service industry needs to be prepared to invest in its workers and provide good training programmes. When workers are trained to a high level, they will provide a better service, which in turn gives the visitors a better experience. Once a good reputation is developed, tourists will continue to come to Johor. TI

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peggy loh

My johor stories

Our resident writer, Peggy Loh, actively writes in her blog www.peggyloh.com about matters that are close to her heart. She can be reached at write2peggyloh@gmail.com

Making a Difference at FOLO Farms

A cloud of steam was released when Will Chua dug out handfuls of compost to let visitors touch and smell it, as part of his comprehensive tour of the FOLO Farms’ compost facility in Ban Foo

he recognition that Feed Our Loved Ones (FOLO) Farms received from the Malaysian Global Innovation & Creativity Centre (MaGIC) Social Entrepreneurship Amplify Awards 2016, is an affirmation of what they are doing and spurring them on to making a greater difference in the community. When Dr Lemuel Ng’s father, Caleb Ng, was diagnosed with coronary heart disease, his mother, Nancy, responded by growing their own vegetables and poultry, and radically changing the way they ate. More than 30 years has passed since this diagnosis and Dr Ng’s father, 82, is alive and well, without the need of a heart bypass. As a medical practitioner who lived, studied and worked in Asia, Europe and America, Dr Ng garnered extensive experience in his personal journey as he interacted with people in the city and countryside. He kept an active lifestyle and tried out different diets for flavour and fitness and over the years, he discovered a recurring pattern in a diet or philosophy that stood the test of time and continues to prove itself against sickness and disease. This philosophy simply boils down to: Know your farmer, know your food. I’m listening to Dr Ng’s introduction before he went on to share health and nutritional advice in part of our group’s tour of the FOLO Farms in Johor that started from a sneak peek into their compost facility in Ban Foo and continued to this demo farm in Bukit Kempas. While the farm in Bukit Kempas is opened to the public by appointment only, the compost facility in Ban Foo was included into our itinerary by special arrangement for the benefit of experienced

“organic warriors” in our group who wanted to see what FOLO Farms was doing to create their “black gold.” It was heart-warming to learn that Dr Ng’s journey of discovery, his father’s health issues and his mother’s commitment to turn his health around, all contributed to his decision to put aside a career in medicine for farming. Like Dr Ng, five other young

Dr Lemuel Ng [Standing Left] speaking to the visitors in the multi-purpose hall dubbed, Qiao Fang, built mainly from recycled wood, at FOLO Farms in Kempas people had returned to Johor Bahru after studying and working abroad, to be closer to their families. They, however, noticed a common thread that ran through the lives of their loved ones – poor health, failing organs and the occurrence of cancer; not just among the elderly but also with youngsters! Refusing to accept this as part of their future, Dr Ng, Will Chua, T Y Tang, Gerald Ling, Jason Lim and his sister, Jacqueline, decided to do something to take ownership of feeding themselves and their loved ones.

They connected with a local farmer, Ah Lek, who accepted their challenge to take the lead in cultivating vegetables and reap a pesticide-free and nutrient-rich harvest. Now Ah Lek and his team are on the ground daily, toiling in all kinds of weather and catching bugs by hand to ensure that there will be a good harvest! FOLO Farms started in Kempas in early 2015, on a strip of land that Chua inherited from his father, with the goal to reclaim ownership of the food they ate and started feeding their loved ones with healthier choices that would ultimately result in better health. To share more about his inspirational journey to discovering the philosophy by which the farms operates, Dr Ng invited his mother to speak. When she stood before the audience, Nancy’s petite stature belied her steely resolve that did wonders to turn her husband’s health around. Nancy, 68, spoke in Mandarin with Chua translating into English, to share her story on how she transformed her flower garden into a farm to grow fruits and vegetables and rear poultry. Her late mother would help with the traditional method of preparing burnt soil where fire acts as a rapid mineralising agent to increase soil nutrients. The farming continues to this day and she proudly showed off photos stored in her handphone, of her lush kitchen garden. The thought of burnt soil triggered off memories of its distinct aroma because my parents used to practice soil burning to successfully grow fruits and vegetables like cabbages, ladies fingers, brinjals, chillies and limes on the ground, in pots and planters. Their leisure was dedicated to our kitchen garden when they were based in Masai for 13 years, while working with the government Health Sub-Centre. After every downpour, my siblings and I helped to search for snails among the plants and crushed their shells before feeding them to the flock of ducks we reared in our backyard. Dr Ng also mentioned the topic, “Pesticide contamination in water” which

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A FOLO Farms’ member collecting her box of farm-fresh vegetables from FOLO Farm in Kempas on Saturday morning they presented in a recent TED Talk event in JB. Acquiring the site at Ban Foo allowed them to develop bigger farmlands and embark on recycling vast tons of kitchen waste, turning it into “black gold” to grow larger quantities of vegetables. But collecting kitchen waste is far from glamorous and entailed waking up at 5am daily to collect up to 3 tons of waste from the city and sending it to the compost facility. Dr Ng was pleased that since late 2015, Renaissance Hotel Johor Bahru has partnered with them in the composting project. The farm is now feeding 60 families in a membership share system modelled after producer-consumer systems like Community Supported Agriculture farms in the US, Teikei in Japan and Hasalim in Korea. Every Saturday, members who pay a 24-week share, would collect their box from the farm, filled with a variety of vegetables from their crop rotation harvests. While FOLO Farms’ initial aim was to feed their own families, they also wish to encourage and inspire others to start similar farms. With increasing interest in making healthier choices, they aim to develop a community which is committed to not only feeding their bodies but also their hearts and minds in a holistic and healing environment. TI

Dr Lemuel Ng [Middle Row Far Right], his parents Nancy and Caleb Ng [Front Row], Will Chua [Back Row Right] and Jacqueline Lim [Back Row Left] with visitors known as the “organic warriors”

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Tourism Trade between Johor and Vietnam Bilateral

MAH Johor Chapter to Ho Chi Minh City: “Explore Johor” Mission to Boost Tourism Business

n entourage of 76 delegates from Johor including the State’s Chapters of Malaysian Association of Hotels (MAH), Malaysian Association of Tour & Travel Agents (MATTA), Malaysian Budget Hotel Association (MYBHA), theme parks and medical tourism operators, and media members made a trip to Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC) and to the Union of Friendship Organisation (HUFO) office. The team was headed by the Director of Tourism Johor, Mohd Gadaffie Abd Aziz and Datuk Tee Siew Kiong, Chairman of Johor Tourism, Trade & Consumerism to

promote bilateral ties for tourism trade between Johor and Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. According to Lee Hung Quoc, Chairman of the HUFO union, the population of Ho Chi Minh City amounts to over 13 million people of which 40% takes vacation overseas. As Johorians are also frequent travelers to Vietnam due to Air Asia’s daily direct flights, HUFO is glad to reciprocate by promoting the state to Vietnamese travelers. Also present to receive the delegates were Abdul Hadi Che Man, Director of Malaysia Tourism Promotion Board and Sofian Akmal Abd Karim, the Consul General of the Malaysian Consulate both

Team MAH Johor at the Explore Johor Booth

based at Ho Chi Minh City. Hadi stressed that Johor should make full use of the opportunity to develop and promote travel and tourism packages and activities in HCMC. Plans are in the pipeline to increase new direct flights into Senai Airport from the city next year. Chairman of MAH Johor Chapter, Ivan Teo said that MAH Johor is currently in discussion with Causeway Link on the possibility of providing coach pick-ups direct from Senai Airport to drop off/pickup from several hotels to places of attraction around Johor Bahru. Datuk Tee announced that Tourism Johor has been allocated RM17.2 million in the recent budget, the target of which is to make Johor among the top three tourism destinations in Malaysia. To transform tourism in Johor to the next level, Tourism Johor also took the opportunity to relaunch their new logo during the mission, as well as to introduce new tourism products such as caravan parks, home stay, eco-tourism and others to the delegates who represent both countries. TI

Orphans Celebrate Christmas at Angry Birds Activity Park Causes

25 orphans from the Care Haven Charity Centre celebrated Christmas with representatives of Regency Specialist Hospital

Children of Care Haven Charity Centre with representatives of Regency Specialist Hospital at the Angry Birds Activity Park in JBCC

n the spirit of giving, 25 orphans from the Care Haven Charity Centre in Taman Rinting celebrated Christmas at the Angry Birds Activity Park in JBCC recently, with representatives of Regency Specialist Hospital. Management team and staffs from the hospital joined in to celebrate with the children as part of Regency’s annual Corporate Social Responsibility programme. The organiser shared the joy of Christmas with the less fortunate in the Seri Alam community. Celebrating its seventh anniversary recently, Regency

Specialist Hospital continues to engage the public through health screening, health education and community outreach activities. “The objectives of the outing are to give an exposure for the children to learn new things through fun learning activities at the park and enjoy the active lifestyle,” said Rosniza Sidek, Marketing Manager of Regency Specialist Hospital. Also happening on that day was fun singing and dance sessions with the Angry Birds, Santa Claus and clown appearances along with Christmas presents for the orphans. - by Hakim Malik TI

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A Day For The Disabled

he International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPWD) is a United Nations sanctioned date that aims to promote and create a better understanding of persons with disabilities as well as to encourage support for their dignity, rights and well-being. This year, the Persatuan Rakan Celik PIPI, Persatuan Sokongan Orang Kurang Upaya JB with the help of Sultan Ismail Hospital’s Rehabilitation Medicine Department organised a ‘Disabled Persons Day’ in line with the IDPWD celebrations.

Highlight

Sultan Ismail Hospital played host to International Day of Persons with Disabilities The day started with the “Walk for People with Disability”, where participants from all walks of life participated for a good cause, before the event was officially launched by the guests of honour, Dr. Haji Izam Suleiman, the State Health Deputy Director (Medicine), the Director of HSI, Dr. Haji Arbain

bin Lani and the State Director of Rehabilitation Medicine, Dr. Sharon Anne Khor. Other activities that happened during the day were the Wheelchair Dance as well as a Laughter Therapy session by the JB Happy and Joyous Club. Several talks with doctors were

Many came to show their support for the disabled at the Disabled Persons Day at Sultan Ismail Hospital also organised and open to public participation. “We are glad that we can do something and contribute back to the society. We always support those in need,” said Atiqah Razak, a representative of Maslee. Participants who completed

the walk were presented with medals and two special awards, namely the Tokoh Rehab Award 2016 were presented to Dr. Haji Arbain, Director of HSI and to Fakri Raimi, an amputee and state’s leading Paralympic athlete. - by Amin Khairuddin TI

JEiWA Geared up Plans for Johor-born Researchers Rumah Kanak-Kanak Mini Showcase Inventions in Spain Causes

ohor Empowerment of Intellectual Women Association (JEiWA) is now appointed as Visitors Board of Members for Rumah Kanak-Kanak Mini Ulu Tiram and they have already geared up with a long list of activities and programmes for the children of the home. The credential was presented by Deputy Director of Johor Social Welfare, Datuk Daud Arbah to six members of JEiWA for the tenure of two years. “The education and enrichment programme for children are essential and we are targeting to enhance the children’s level of confidence and skills development from time to time. Post trauma of their tragic past may succumb them from living their normal lives but we will engage more

wo researchers from Johor made their way to Spain to showcase their latest inventions at the “Brainy Tongue Conference”, an event where the world’s top chefs and scientists gathered to discuss the technological future of gastronomy. The geniuses behind the Digital Taste Technologies, Professor Adrian David Cheok and Nurafiqah Johari presenting Nurafiqah Johari and Nur the Thermal Taste Technology to participants at the Brainy Amira Samshir who hail from Tongue Conference which was held at San Sebastian, Spain similar to sweet, sour, salty and bitter tastes. the Imagineering Institute The inventors said that their long-term showcased the ‘Electric Taste’ and ‘Thermal Taste’ inventions. Also present was the Director goal is to develop utensils that would help of the Institute, Professor Adrian David Cheok. people to eat healthy and tasty diets with less Nor Fadilah Mohamed Nizar, Chairman of JEiWA and her team The technologies were designed sugar or less salt. appointed as Visitors Board of Members for Rumah Kanak-Kanak to stimulate taste buds in the tongue to Located in Iskandar Puteri, the Mini Ulu Tiram create virtual taste experiences. During a Imagineering Institute has been recognised as activities to bring the children will be opening accounts user experiment at the event, participants one of the best multi-sensory research centres out and have them explore for the young ones while described that the sensations were very in the world. - by Thamayanthy Rajendran TI the world,” said Nor Fadilah SPCA Johor will organise a Mohamed Nizar, Chairman cat exhibition to foster care towards animals. JEiWA. “Other than ‘Gift From Fadilah continued that JEiWA will be organising Your Soul’, our members will one of the major events for also structure English courses, the welfare home named ‘Gift gardening and sewing classes, From Your Soul’ by early 2017 doodling and more for their as a start which will benefit talent and skills development,” approximately 30 children. added Fadilah. - by Maressa Along the event, Tabung Haji Esa TI

Enrichment and enhancement programmes for the abused and abandoned children

Universal Business Academy Graduation Ceremony

IIB Appoints new President/ Chief Executive Officer

sk andar Investment Berhad (IIB) appointed Datuk Ir. Khairil Anwar Ahmad as the new President / Chief Executive Officer (P/CEO) of IIB, effective from 1 November 2016. He succeeds Datuk Syed Mohamed Syed Ibrahim who had served as the P/CEO of IIB for the past six years. A registered Professional Engineer, Datuk Ir. Khairil Anwar brings with him over 30 years of experience and was most recently the Managing Director and Chief Executive

Officer of Medini Iskandar Malaysia Sdn Bhd (MIMSB). Prior to joining MIMSB in March 2013, he was the Chief Operating Officer of IIB, a position he held from June 2012. Earlier, he served as the Chief Executive Officer of Education at Iskandar Sdn Bhd (now known as EduCity Iskandar Malaysia Sdn Bhd), promoting catalytic education-related projects for Iskandar Malaysia. Before he joined IIB in July 2007, Khairil served at several companies including Malaysia Building Society

O Datuk Ir. Khairil Anwar Ahmad as the new President / Chief Executive Officer (P/CEO) of IIB Berhad (MBSB), Kinta Kellas Plc and Lembaga Letrik Negara. TI

ver 30 students of Universal Business Academy (UBA) were excited to have completed their studies and celebrated their achievement at their graduation ceremony at Holiday Villa Hotel JB, recently. Parents and families of the students flew from around the world to show their support. Olga Kutsenko, a representative from the London School of Marketing was also present for the event. Shirley Tan, the Director of UBA has been running the establishment for seven years, and believes that the university gives students a different and personal learning experience.

“Our students are usually working adults, so they need to have a course that can cater to their time. We at UBA provide a personal and engaging experience with our online classes. We believe that communication is important for the students to excel in their chosen course of study,” she said. Amadi Udoji, a 29 year old student from Nigeria came to UBA for his degree in 2010 and has had a wonderful experience with the local culture and his time at the university. “UBA provides a very personal touch. The lecturers and admins are helpful and you can come and ask them anything. The modular approach to classes gives you a very tailored education,” said Amadi. - by Amin Khairuddin TI

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1st All Female World Robotics Champions Highlight

obots, something that would usually be related to tinkering boys and men but little that you know, a group of Johorian girls just won the World Robot Olympiad 2016 that was recently held in India. The girls of Dato’ Jaafar Secondary School (SDJ) known as Jaafarinas consists of three form six students, Chia Yin Yee, Tengeo Hee Ying, Ong Su Hui and their mentor Isabelle Wong. The team was coached by Dr. Ng Jo-Han, Assistant Professor at Southampton University, Malaysia. “We knew nothing about Robotics 5 months ago, because girls are not encouraged to do ‘boys’ robotics. But now we have learnt a lot about STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) and we love it. We want to prove that girls can do STEM too,” said the Jaafarinas. According to Dr. Ng, he wanted to show that

Proving that even girls can play with robots

Mentor, Isabelle Wong, Dr. Ng Jo Han with the team consisting of Tengeo Chee Ying, Ong Su Hui and Eunice Chia Yin Yee anybody can learn robotics and become good at it as long as one is interested, and selecting an all-female team with zero experience was the best way to prove it. The students had to design a robot that would solve a specific problem, in this year’s case the challenge was to ‘Rap The Scrap’, where their creation would have to reduce, manage and recycle waste. “We researched on using the latest concept of ‘Robotics Technology’ and found the Interdisciplinary Specialisation on Robotics (IDSR) pioneered from IIT Delhi, India. It allowed us to produce a robot that

is Realistic, Automated, Scientific and State of the Art,” said the girls. The students designed a robot that was able to separate solid waste into individual containers as well as a liquid waste treatment facility that is able to neutralise dirty water with chemicals. Another feature of the robot was a full hand gesture control robotic arm that aids moving of rubbish within the system. The team also made a breakthrough with a self-made Lego-hone communication system that sends automated SMS once the rubbish has been treated. - by Amin Khairuddin TI

Grassroots Soccer Competition for Students Highlight

PTP organised the competition for Gelang Patah students to promote a healthy lifestyle and teamwork

ort of Tanjung Pelepas (PTP), a member of MMC Group continues to engage with communities within its area and this time by organising a two day soccer tournament for primary school students of Gelang Patah. A total of 150 students aged from ten to twelve years old from 10 schools around the Gelang Patah area joined this soccer league which took place at SK Kompleks Sultan Abu Bakar, Gelang Patah. The participating schools were SK Nusantara, SK Tiram Duku, SK Gelang Patah, SK Taman Nusa Perintis 1, SK Tanjung Kupang, SK Morni Pok, SK Ladang Pendas, SK Kampung Pulai, SK Sg Melayu & SK Tanjung Adang. This is the fourth time PTP had organised such events after it was first launched in 2012 with a boost to promote positive and healthy lifestyle amongst local school students through sports activities, particularly soccer. PTP Chief Executive Officer, Marco Neelsen said, “This sports based initiative provided an avenue for these children to maximise their talents and achieve their dreams to become established and

successful sportsmen.” “The tournament not only promoted fitness but also inculcated values such as teamwork and self-confidence which everybody can apply to their personal and working life,” added Marco. Aliff Ameer Reza who played for SK Kg Pulai soccer team said, “I am grateful to participate in this year’s tournament because my team can use this opportunity to strengthen our fitness, tactical and mental readiness for the state competition soon.” Over the years, PTP has initiated various sporting-based and other corporate social responsibility programmes for the Gelang Patah community especially towards school children. - by Priya Manikam TI

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Soccer League Tournament Champion from SK Nusa Perintis 1

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The Iskandarian ISSUE 53 | JAN 2017 Advertisement

2017

HAPPY CHINESE NEW YEAR

EXPERIENCE

EXPRESS SHOPPING W IT H MASLEE MASLEE Outlets

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JAN 2017

iNSIDE

dams A n a y r B , a Metallic tival s e F y a w e n & La Singapore

+ ArRival + Resident evil : The final chapter + stingless bess+

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editor’s H note

appy New Year my fellow readers! This month the Chinese welcomes the Year of the Rooster (Chicken) and according to the Chinese Horoscope theory, Chicken is a Female Metal which is related to gold, precious gem or jewelry. That means Chicken implies luxury, beauty and wealth. Now, who would’ve have thought that the good ol’ chicken can be this meaningful! 20th, 21st and 22nd January 2017 are the dates to remember if you are in Singapore. Why? Because Bryan Adams, The Laneway Festival Singapore and Metallica

Priya Manikam waves.lifestyle@gmail.com

are in town! So, book your tickets fast and party hard. We have Arrival this January, a provocative science fiction thriller from acclaimed Director Denis Villeneuve of Sicario and Prisoners. Also, Capcom’s hugely popular video game series comes the final installment - Resident Evil: The Final Chapter in the most successful video game film franchise ever, which has grossed over $1 billion worldwide to date! This time, we bring you a special local travel feature to Uncle Tan’s Orchard Stingless Bee Farm at Pontian where visitors

MUSIC UPDATES

Universal Music Singapore

Bryan Adams, Laneway Festival and Metallica

anuary 2017 spells several Live Concerts featuring big names in Singapore. Renowned Canadian rock star Bryan Adams will be performing at the Suntec Convention Centre, Singapore at 8 p.m on 20th January 2017. The Grammy Award winner is one of the world’s best-selling artists of all time, with almost 40 years in show business. The singer, songwriter and photographer has sold over 100 million records and singles worldwide with classic hits such as “Everything I Do, I Do It For You”, “Summer Of 69”,“Heaven”,“All For Love”, “Have You Really Loved A Woman”, “Cuts Like A Knife” and “Run To You”. The rock legend is ready to bring his “Get Up Tour” to Singapore. Besides his repertoire of famous hits, the concert will also feature tunes from his thirteenth studio album Get Up, made up of up-tempo tracks such as “Brand New Day”, “You Belong To Me”, “Thunderbolt”, to the gentler songs

such as “Don’t Even Try” and “We Did It All”. With his unique ability to fuse rock anthems and power ballads, audience can expect a pure night of entertainment and a good time. This

one night only performance marks his return to Singapore in 23 years! The seventh annual St. Jerome’s Laneway Festival Singapore will feature a stacked indie music line-up, some whose names are already familiar and others

whom we’re betting on to make it big. Look out for Electronic, hip-hop, R&B, dance, future soul, pop-folk, and punk. The Laneway Festival Singapore will be taking place at The Meadow, Gardens By The Bay on 21st January 2017 from 10am until midnight. Formed in 1981 by drummer Lars Ulrich and guitarist/vocalist James Hetfield, Metallica is one of the most influential and commercially successful rock bands in history, having sold 110 million albums worldwide while playing to millions of fans on literally all seven continents. Metallica is back in Singapore on 22nd January 2017 at the Singapore Indoor Stadium. The last time the band came to Singapore was in 2013, playing to the sold-out crowds at Changi Exhibition Centre. Metallica recently announced that they will release their 11th studio album Hardwired…To SelfDestruct on 18th November 2016, via Blackened Recordings. The two-CD / two-vinyl set is the band’s first studio album since the multi-platinum Death Magnetic in 2008.

stand a chance to experience nature at its best. 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 The Iskandarian wishes all celebrants a very Happy Chinese New Year!

Priya

JAN 2017 | Page 3

The Iskandarian | WAVES Lifestyle

Are You in an Abusive Relationship? – Part 1

W Rose Osman has intuitive skills in hacking potentials in human energy for success and healing. She coaches through One-toOne sessions, group sessions and via E-courses on Udemy.com.

yourpersonalmotivator BucketOfRoses www.roselifecoach.com

hat do we know about abusive behaviour? How do we break free from being abused? What I’m offering here is an understanding on how one ends up in an abusive relationship and how he/she could get out of it. First, let’s understand abusive behaviour from the neutral and energy point of view. The abusive act takes many forms from physical abuse to emotional abuse, from marriages to political abuses. It doesn’t matter what form it takes as abusing is an act of prey on the weaker souls. However, it’s not the work of the Soul. Abuse acts are committed unconsciously by

the personalities, or in other words, the energy that drives the personalities of the victims and the abusers. How One Ends Up in an Abusive Relationship? No one chooses to be in an abusive relationship. People who end up in it were driven into it. There are two forces in play; the predator that manifests as an abuser or a bully and the victim. Anyone who embodies the frequency of a victim will eventually attract the abuser or the other way round. These two forces interlock with each other and create an abusive force. This happens in the dimension of energy.

The energy of the abuser and the victim are at the same frequency. For example, the victim has the same anger with the person who abuses him/her. One’s anger is expressed, and the other’s anger is dormant. Therefore, on the surface, the abuser may look stronger than the victim. But the surface is superficial because on the energy level, they are equally weak by the presence of anger. This is the reason why many people couldn’t break free from an abusive cycle. They are physically weak in the presence of the abusive force. And neither the victims nor the abusers have the empowerment to break the forces unless they step out of it.

An Energy Coach and A Personal Motivator. Rose Osman uses her knowledge and intuitive skills in energy to coach people to live a joyful life through her coaching programmes on personal & career growth, relationship, love and health.

MOVIES

Arrival

Source: Sony Pictures Malaysia

hen mysterious spacecraft touch down across the globe, an elite team lead by expert linguist Louise Banks (Amy Adams) are brought together to investigate. As mankind teeters on the verge of global war, Banks and the team race against time for answers – and to find them, she will take a chance that could threaten her life, and quite possibly humanity.

Genre: Science Fiction Thriller Release date: 12th January 2017 Cast: Amy Adams, Jeremy Renner, Forest Whitaker, Michael Stuhlbarg Directors: Denis Villeneuve Producer: Shawn Levy, Dan Levine, Aaron Ryder, David Linde

RESIDENT EVIL: THE FINAL CHAPTER

Source: Sony Pictures Malaysia

icking up immediately after the events in Resident Evil: Retribution, Alice (Milla Jovovich) is the only survivor of what was meant to be humanity’s final stand against the undead.

Genre: Action/Horror Release date: 26th January 2017 Voice Cast: Milla Jovovich, Ali Larter, Shawn Roberts, Ruby Rose, Eoin Macken, Rola, Lee Joon-Gi with William Levy and Iain Glen Directors: Paul W.S. Andersonr Producer: Martin Moszkowicz, Victor Hadida

Now, she must return to where the nightmare began – The Hive in Raccoon City, where the Umbrella Corporation is gathering its forces for a final strike against the only remaining survivors of the apocalypse.

JAN 2017 | Page 4

The Iskandarian | WAVES Lifestyle

Calendar of Events 1st Jan New Year

Spore, 5th – 8th Jan Zak Salaam India Expo @ Singapore Expo

Spore, 6th – 8th Jan Blissful Outdoor Wedding Show @ Tan Quee Lan St, S’pore

travel

JB, 7th Jan

Honey from Friendly Bees

Night Run @ Puteri Harbour

Spore, 12th – 15th Jan

Uncle Tan’s orchard and stingless bee farm offers visitors a chance to experience nature at its best

Singapore Motorshow @ Suntec Singapore

JB, 13th – 22nd Jan Bridal Exhibition @ Angsana Mall

Spore, 13th – 15th Jan Baby World Fair @ Singapore Expo

JB, 14th Jan

By Syakirin Daud waves.lifestyle@gmail.com

veryone knows that honey is produced by bees, but not all bees come with stingers. A large group of stingless bees known as Meliponini have taken its spot as a local favourite for beginner bee keepers and plantation owners for their docile nature, honey and pollinating capabilities. These bees which are significantly smaller than its cousins consist of 500 species worldwide and 35 species in Malaysia which are being used by local farmers to help with crop production.

William Flores Zumba Party @ Wisma Tiong Hua

JB, 20th Jan Piala Sumbangsih 1st Liga Super 2017 @ Larkin Stadium

28th – 29th Jan Chinese New Year

Handmade honey soap, one of the by product from the bees Jacky Tan a Meliponini breeder explained that stingless bees, evolved differently from its cousins and have developed into a unique and distinct family of pollinators. “The taste of the honey is also different. Stingless bees’ honey is sweet and sour as it has richer antioxidant and

organic acids than normal honey,” he said during a visit to his honey bee farm at Uncle Tan Orchard Stingless Bee Farm, Rambah, Pontian, Johor. His 9.5 acres orchard is home to 44 colonies of stingless bees from six different species, Tetragonula Fuscobalteata, Heterotrigona Itama, Geniotrigona Thoracica, Tetragonula Laeviceps, Lepidotrigona Terminata, and Tetragonula Testaceitarsis. His orchard is an excellent spot to breed stingless bees as it provides varieties of blossoming flowers and tropical fruit trees including coral vine flower trees, starfruit, water guava, mangosteen, dragonfruit, jackfruit, longan, and coconut tree. Jacky explained that the bees collect nectar and pollen from flowers and resin from trees. Nectar turns into honey, and pollen is stored in the hive that is made from the resin. The bees will process the resin inside their bodies and turn it into Propolis, which is used to construct the hive. Although the bees produce less honey compared to conventional honey bees, the quality and price is higher due to the health benefits it brings. “They fill the honey inside the propolis sack. Propolis contains flavonoid which is known for its good antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties,” said Jacky. He explained that instead of building cells, stingless bees build honey sacks to store the honey. When harvesting, the propolis from the hive is used to make

The Geniotrigona Thoracica is the biggest variant of local stingless bees, carrying resin from tree on their hind legs organic soap which he sells at the orchard along with bottles of organic honey. The young farmer has been breeding stingless bees on his land since September 2015, and plans to turn his orchard into an agro tourism spot for everyone to experience. Visitors can visit Uncle Tan Orchard Stingless Bee Farm at Lot 569, Lorong Parit Bilal Laut, Jalan Kukup, Rambah, 82000 Pontian, Johor, Malaysia. It’s open from 9.00 am – 6.00 pm. For more details, call 012-739 6311.

Block your dates for this month!

If you need more information on the above mentioned events, drop us an email at: waves.lifestyle@ gmail.com

Jacky Tan displaying the honey and propolis saps from a stingless bee hive

An exterior look of a typical stingless bee hive

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360 Degree Solution for Women – Part Two Dr Sharifah Halimah Jaafar M.D. M.Med O&G (UKM), AM (Mal), AAAM (USA) Consultant Obstetrician & Gynaecologist Regency Specialist Hospital

What is 360 Degree Laser Vaginal Tightening and How Does It Work? The laser has recently been added as one of the choices of treatment for VRS because of its precision and the ability to limit damage to the tissue due to its excellent water absorption properties particularly the Erbium YAG laser (2940 nm). As the vaginal mucosa has high water content, this makes it an ideal and safe target for this laser wavelength. Collagen remodelling of the vaginal mucosa tissue is encouraged by the photothermal effect of laser, which rejuvenates the vagina through collagen regeneration and thickening of the walls of the vaginal canal. Laser Vaginal Tightening with ErbiumYag laser delivers gentle ablation of the vaginal mucosa with a deep and controlled photothermal effect. The treatment promotes remodelling of collagen, induces Elastin contraction, revitalisation of vaginal tissues, and tightening of the vaginal canal. The enhanced photothermal effect resulting in shrinkage of the endopelvic fascia, ligament, and mucosal tissue of the anterior vaginal

First Step : Multiple Micropulse

Second Step : Long Pulse canal may give some improvement to women with problem of mild urinary stress incontinence. When do you need 360 Degree Vaginal Laser? Many women are aware of the problem in

their vagina and sexual function but most are just too embarrassed to address their concerns and just live with it as it is not a major health problem although it affects their quality of life. However, now with the advance of laser medical technology, most of the following concerns can be solved with a simple office procedure which gives long lasting results: • If you feel decreased sensation and stimulation during intercourse • If you find your vagina has loosened up with minimal muscle tone • If you have a gaping vaginal opening • If your partner slips out during intercourse • If tampons fall out • If your vagina produces “gas-like” sounds during intercourse or “popping” sounds while walking • If you are not satisfied with the appearance of your labia due to pigmentation • If you feel vaginal dryness and lack of moisture, or pain during intercourse • If you sense inflammation, itching and a burning sensation • If you notice involuntary release of urine, especially when you cough, sneeze, or

laugh Aesthetic gynaecology offers solution to many of these issues and is a huge area of interest to women and the medical world. There’s no need to be embarrassed and whatever your concerns are; we treat it very seriously and can assure you of the utmost discretion throughout. TI

Romanticising Abuse Dr. Haliza Zurah Dr. Haliza Zurah is a medical doctor of 8 years of experience with hopes to assist working mothers to balance work, life and emotion. As a representative of JEIWA (Johor Empowerment of Intellectual Women Association), she cover’s crucial issues involving working mothers and matters relating to women’s rights, education and more.

omantic scenes are essential to make any story line more alive and interesting. A story of a soldier in a battlefield with flashes of his distanced wife can capture the audience’s hearts. But when movies use romance to glorify abuse, this may create a debatable issue. Gone with the Winds is an example of a movie in the history that romanticised abuse. The scene of Rhett Butler carrying Scarlett O’Hara up the stairs when she was unwilling to the act is an unforgettable scene that gave a dramatic climax of the romance in the movie. The movie depicted marital rape positively when Scarlett woke up in ecstasy

the morning after! Another scene where Rhett described on how he would tear Scarlett into pieces is a description of verbal abuse and threat. They were a married couple and that was how Rhett, the husband treated his wife. Local scenes are no exception of using abuse to create sexual arousal to the characters and subsequently link it to romance. Sadly, such movies or dramas are box office hits. The most famous movie in the recent years used a handsome and wellbuilt actor who treated an innocent kampung girl with no respect. He raped and instilled fear to this poor girl. He was handsome, rich and a playboy – a complete package of a powerful man. Later in the movie, this naïve girl fell in love with her own rapist. To legalise sex between them, the girl begged him to marry her and in return she won’t make any demand of her rights. In a culture where premarital sex is forbidden, scenes as described in the movie portrayed dominancy of a man towards a woman in a negative and forceful way but can create an exciting fantasy among the audience. Dominancy with elements of romance can falsely instil the idea of love among the youngsters. This is an undesirable template of relationships in our society. Forceful sex,

bad treatment and physical harm are abuse regardless of the situation. Por traying a handsome man as a rapist whose domination is pleasurable in bed can create sexual fantasy among the young women who are mostly naïve in our society. To make the movie more interesting, the girl is depicted as helpless and dependent on her rapist who later becomes her husband. The way she was thankful that he married her illustrates how a woman can be just happy with minimal effort from a man where in fact she deserves more. Local movies love to portray uneducated and kampung girls as kind and naïve. This type can easily be pleased without much effort. The antagonist will be urban girls with good education background and career (with heavy bold make-up). Usually this type will be portrayed as demanding, cruel and a bully. Another arguable point from this

movie is when she refuses her own rights in exchange to legalise sex describes an unhealthy submissive character. Therefore, any man would take advantage as long as he gets the power and control over the woman with no commitment to protect her rights. A woman should be treated like a gem and not as a slave to any man even her own husband. The movie made a cliché turning point where the hero who was a bad boy turned into a good boy and fell in love with the girl. That’s when the movie made the audience fall in love with the handsome abuser. Any visual-based story telling such as movies and advertisements can influence the mentality and shape the society. There are many movies and television dramas in this country that clearly romanticise abuse and nothing has been done to stop it because we love it. We love this toxic behaviour with a bit of religious value and some touch of romance. When the bad boy repents, it reaches out to our hearts. We should stop making excuses to romanticise abuse. Abuse is not a pleasurable fantasy and we must teach young girls not to swoon over this. It’s time to change! TI

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The Hotelier’s Story

e are featuring this series on hoteliers from Malaysian Association of Hotels (MAH) Johor Chapter to give you an insight to rebrand careers in hotels and change the negative perception of the public that working in the hotel means long hours, low pay, or a job to face angry customers. We are here to set the record straight that the hotel industry is the face of the future. There are many Hotel GMs here who have climbed the ladder from scratch and this should serve as an inspiration to the younger generation to enter the hospitality industry. In this issue we focus on Jef Kong, CEO/GM from Le Grandeur Palm Resort and here’s what he has to say: Brief background on previous experience as well as hotels/resorts worked in I have accumulated a total of 3 decades of hospitality experience in diverse disciplines from Hotels, Resorts and University Operations and General Management to all-rounded Food & Beverage functions, and Sales & Marketing. I’ve served with the Swiss Inn Group, The Eastern & Oriental Group, the Raintree Club and the Taj Group of Hotels. What inspired you to enter the hotel industry? I was actually ‘conned’ into entering the industry by my cousin! I accompanied him to listen to a career talk on hotel management and catering. Just like all good talks, I became hooked and ventured into furthering my studies in Hotel Management in Switzerland, where it was “the destination” for hotel

studies those days. In what position did you get started? True to the general notion of working in hotels, I had to deal with the long hours and started with a salary of 10 Swiss Francs for washing dishes. I had to learn to speak French and with the bit of hotel experience and good survival instincts, I went on to earn 20 Francs waiting at tables, while supporting myself through studies. Although it was hard work, it made me a tougher person and exposed me to the world of hospitality. In what sections have you worked in within the hotel? As I was set on managing hotels, I realised I had to know all facets of the hotel. And so I gathered knowledge from working in Sales, F&B, Security, Landscaping and Finance. Whatever was there; I learnt it. What are your strengths? I enjoy working with and through people. I can coerce or motivate people into doing things I want them to do. I believe strongly in the principle of working as a team, and therefore as a leader in my hotel/resort I adopt a participative style instead of an authoritative style with my department heads. It is more productive to empower. Relate ONE incident that made you feel that being a hotelier is the right job for you? I enjoy seeing the satisfaction on the faces of my guests when they are happy. It is something that is indescribable especially

when you realise that they will come back again. And the amount of friends I have made throughout my years in this industry is something that money cannot buy. My career has brought me friends from all over the world. They are all a part of my HOTEL family who are now connected through Facebook. I know that when I visit other parts of the world, there is always a hotel there for me and a friend who works there. What do you see as the future for a career in hospitality? There is always growth as a hotelier. Hospitality is about service and the human touch. Although there are now more advanced technology, computerisation and automation within the service industry itself, but the human factor can never be replicated. What do you see as the future of hospitality in Johor? There will only be more hotels mushrooming especially within the Iskandar region. There are plenty of opportunities waiting for the next generation of hoteliers to take over.

hospitality environment is really up to the individual. They must really enjoy their job. If they only look at the job as a routine and getting a salary end of every month, then they are in the wrong line. I believe the key is still learning on the job although many new entrants would already come out with a degree in Hospitality Management. What are your personal words of encouragement for new entrants into the industry? Have passion in whatever you do. The hospitality industry is where you grow friends and experience. It is a profession to be proud of. And if you want to lead, you have to be constantly on the learning curve, knowing every aspect of the hotel. It is a dynamic industry with new things to learn every day. Be happy to serve others and enjoy making them happy. And yes, working in the hotel will mean you can meet famous people, learn the finer things and tastes in life. It is an enriching experience. TI

In your current position, how can you ensure that there is a way forward for those wanting to venture into the industry? As a GM, I always try to identify people with that ‘extra quality’ i.e. those who are like me – enjoy meeting and serving people, and making others happy. I want to groom them into future leaders in the hospitality industry. If they succeed, I will feel proud that I have had a hand in the making. Succeeding or not succeeding in the

Things to Look Out for in an Employment Contract – Part One

mployers in Malaysia are given extensive liberty in negotiating terms and conditions of employment with potential employees. There are laws surrounding employment, primarily the Employment Act 1955 and the Industrial Relations Act 1967. This article serves to explore the key considerations in employment contracts and how employers can further enhance their own set of contracts.

a subsequent report, i.e. Declaration of fitness, medical condition, and criminal background shows that the candidate is unsuitable for employment? • The situation where an offer letter is signed but the candidate fails to turn up for work? • The situation where an offer letter is signed but you subsequently feel that you no longer require the services of an employee?

The Common Suspects – Types of Contract

* Image is for illustration only

Pre-Employment Obligations Employers generally require potential candidates to fulfill pre-employment obligations. There are multiple scenarios that would generally not fall within a ‘template’ employment contract unless you’ve been through such experience(s). Does your contract of employment cover situations as such? Here are a few examples: • The situation where an offer is signed but

References to other documents Most of the time, employment contracts wo u l d make reference(s) to other important documents from within the Company. This is perfectly fine! Let’s use the employee handbook as an example. By making reference to a handbook is self-explanatory but what would happen if the terms in the handbook are slightly different from the terms in the contract? A good employment contract or handbook is one that would provide for this option. Generally, a simple clause will do, stipulating the prevailing document in the event of a conflicting term. This will ease you through in case you have several inconsistent documents (which may not be surprising). TI

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Accumulating Wealth Tips & Tricks

Replicate the Success of 2016 in 2017

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 .

ime flies, I can’t believe we’ve just ushered into 2017. I’d like to wish you a happy and lucky new year! While it’s always great to start our year with resolutions, it’s more important to

know how we fared in 2016. If we did well, we may replicate our success. If not, we can learn from the lessons. As at 14th December 2016, we’ve made a paper gain of 71% since the inception of our portfolio in November 2015. On the contrary, KLCI suffered a -1% loss over the same period. Considering 2016 an eventful year, what made us achieve this kind of result? What were the companies we invested have in common and what strategies we used? There are three rules that we follow: 1) Have Growth factor(s)

Disclaimer: The companies mentioned above and 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.

There are plenty of good companies in Malaysia, but very few have huge growth potential. And if the company cannot grow, their revenue and earnings will be capped. This implies on their share price, too. So how do we tell if the company has growth factor(s) or is growing? Ask the following questions: • Will the company offer more products or services? • Does the company build more factory or increase lines for production? • Has the company secured more contracts or projects? • For retail business, does the company open more outlets? • Is there any sign the company is venturing into overseas? If the answers are ‘yes’, chances are, the company would generate more revenue, leading to higher earnings and eventually a rising share price. 2) Have low valuation Low valuation means undervalued. For example, you use RM1 to buy a RM2 company. That’s a good deal. While there are a few ways to value a company, such as the PE ratio, P/BV, intrinsic value and so on, a more commonly used method is the PE ratio. A PE ratio is the ratio between the share price (market price) and the earnings per share (EPS). For instance, the market price of ABC Company is RM2.4 and its EPS is RM0.4, its PE ratio is 2.4/0.4, which is 6. As a rule of thumb, a PE ratio of less than 10 is considered as undervalued. For the

example, a PE ratio of 6 is much undervalued. However, if this ABC Company’s share price has increased to RM4, its PE ratio will become 10, which is a fair value. So should you sell the company? It depends, if the company has earnings growth rate of 10% per annum or more, it’s not overvalued. Theoretically, for a company’s PE ratio to be 10, it needs to have the yearly earnings growth rate of 10%. If not, the share price could fall. Likewise, a company can have a PE ratio of 20 but with the earnings growth rate of 20%. In this case, the share price could sustain. 3)Uptrend You can have a company with impressive growth rate and low valuation, but what if it doesn’t move? Even though you’ve bought a company of low valuation and with good growth rate, it doesn’t mean you’ll make money within your expected timeframe. It’s nothing wrong with the company fundamentals, it’s the timing. As the saying goes, ‘Your trend is your friend’, so only buy companies that are on the uptrend. An uptrend is where the share price chart looks like moving at least 30o or more for the last one to two months, and it’s above the MA50. Conclusion In essence, let’s not worry about the outcome but doing the right thing. While it’s not easy to gain returns as 2016, it’s reasonable to aim for a 20% gain per annum. So let’s invest in companies with growth factor, low valuation and on the uptrend. TI

Adam’s Financial Journey

Brought to you by:

In the Adam Series, we explain how financial planning is being applied in our day to day life as we journey through different stages and challenges

The Golden Years – Part One

he day has arrived for Adam and Aida to live the life of their dreams – they have both finally retired! However, how many of us are contented facing retirement? As Adam and Aida ease into their golden years, let’s take a look at how they manage their finances and what may be the possible solutions to overcome any obstacles to a b e t te r retirement lifestyle. T o retire or not to retire… that’s not an option! For most of the working population, there is a mandatory retirement age, irrespective whether you’re ready

or not. A recent independent survey has found that more than a third of the people approaching re t i re m e n t are less

co n f i d e nt now than they were a year ago.

This is in line with Chris Farrel’s quote, “The great fear is running out of money. That’s the paralysing fear every retiree has.” – the author of “Right on the Money: Taking Control of Your Personal Finances.” By saving early in your adult life, you may find that you have enough to enjoy some of your money even before y o u actually retire. In the case o f Adam, he had planned well and is enjoying the fruits of his labour

as he had cultivated the habit of saving right from his school days. His top priority was saving 10% of his salary every month and strict adherence to some of the following principles: • Sign up for EPF on your first day of work and create a personal retirement account by saving at least 10% of your income to supplement your EPF • Increase your savings in your personal retirement fund by a certain percentage of your income per year as you age • Allocate a portion of each raise or yearly bonus to your retirement savings • Review your investment portfolio for retirement annually to ensure that your money is growing according to your retirement plan Even though Adam and Aida may have sufficient for their

retirement, they hold on to the principle of Prudence - their Retirement Budget continues to focus on prudent investment. For example, Adam is still driving his reliable 10-year old Japanese car while Aida won’t part with her trusted 15-year old sewing machine. In addition, they’re enjoying their favourite movies on their large and bulky television set instead of the latest plasma TVs! So, what do we do if our golden years aren’t really that golden? Not everyone may be as fortunate as Adam and Aida who have sufficient savings for their retirement years. Some surveys have revealed that about 50% of the people feared that they cannot afford to retire. Their pessimism is not without justification as previous reports from EPF found that its members’ retirement funds last for an average of only three years. TI

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UTM Receives RM1mil from Johor Port

ohor Port Berhad (Johor Port), a Member of MMC Group contributed RM1million to Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) as part of its contribution to the university’s Endowment Fund. In 2013, Johor Port signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with UTM for a RM5 million contribution that entails RM1 million worth of annual contribution to fund its Endowment Scholarship. To date, UTM has received RM3 million from JPB. The endowment contributions allow the sponsorship of outstanding first year degree students, Professorship Chair,

Highlight

UTM received RM3million of agreed contributions from Johor Port Berhad for its Endowment Fund publication of scientific materials and implementation of high impact programmes. Dato’ Sri Che Khalib Bin Mohamad Noh, Chairman of JPB handed the contribution to Prof. Datuk Ir. Dr. Wahid Bin Omar, Vice Chancellor of UTM in Skudai, recently. UTM also unveiled at the event that the UTM Marine

Technology Centre will be named as Johor Port Marine Technology Centre as an accolade to JPB’s contribution to the institution. Since its establishment in 2009, the UTM Endowment Fund has successfully collected RM81 million including JPB’s contribution which benefited 600 students. Also present at the event

(From Left) Shahrull Allam Shah bin Abdul Halim, Chief Executive Officer of Johor Port Berhad, Prof. Dato’ Dr. Mohd Ismail Abd Aziz, Deputy Vice Chancellor (Student affairs & Alumni) of UTM and Prof. Datuk Ir. Dr. Wahid Omar, Vice Chancellor of UTM receiving the contribution from Dato’ Sri Che Khalib Bin Mohamad Noh, Chairman of Johor Port Berhad together with Prof. Dr. Azlan bin Ab. Rahman, Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Development) of UTM were Prof. Dr. Azlan bin Ab. Rahman, Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Development) UTM and Shahrull

Allam Shah bin Abdul Halim, Chief Executive Officer of Johor Port Berhad. - by Hakim Malik TI

1Master English Graduation Highlight

200 participants from ten different companies completed the exclusive English course

The graduating students of 1Master English Programme 2016

s many as 200 participants from ten different companies from both retail and hospitality industries, completed the 1Master English Programme which saw a cheerful graduation at Hotel Sri Malaysia, recently. Tuan Haji Mohd Amin of PGI CIPTA (formerly from IRDA) emphasised the importance of mastering the language to have a better opportunity in the growing Johor industries. “The need for the language is there,

with it you can gain confidence and grab the opportunities out there,” he said at the graduation ceremony. Also present was Wahid Abdul Halim, Director of JPK (Southern Region), Director of Elnet Training Academy, Dr Elillen Chandra who is also the Programme Director as well as several representatives of the participating companies. “Take this opportunity, as it is the first step on the road to success, don’t regret, just grab it,” said Wahid. - by Amin Khairuddin TI

Local Student Won Two Internationally Acclaimed Awards Highlight

University of Reading Malaysia celebrates student’s outstanding international achievement

awrence Koh Ben You, a second year BSc Quantity Surveying student at University of Reading Malaysia (UoRM) recently bagged two internationally recognised awards for his outstanding achievement. Lawrence edged hundreds of entries from across the globe to win the USD1000 scholarship for the ‘Innovation in Visualisation’

General Category at the coveted Bentley Systems’ 2016 Bentley Institute Student Design Competition. He was also awarded with the UoR Chancellor’s Award, the university’s most prestigious student award scheme, which recognises the achievements of its top achieving 1% of students at both its UK and Malaysia campus. Witnessed by representatives of Bentley Systems, academics from the UoRM School of the Built Environment and its Quantity Surveying students, the 2016 Bentley Institute Student Design Award was presented by Mohit Bradoo, Bentley Systems Academic Programme Director for APAC. “Among hundreds of submissions, jurors selected the best in each category and Lawrence’s project won the Visualisation

(from left) Mohit Bradoo, Bentley Systems Academic Programme Director for APAC with Lawrence Koh Ben You and Professor Tony Downes, Provost of the University of Reading Malaysia at the award presentation ceremony category, with its excellent use of Bentley detailed and lively community centre. Also there to present the Chancellor’s LumenRT to enliven a building model,” said Mohit adding that Lawrence best Award was Professor Tony Downes, Provost leveraged the software to add a compelling of the University of Reading Malaysia. - by environmental context, transforming it into a Hakim Malik TI

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Fast Service Family Restaurant at The KITCHEN

The Kitchen [Non-Halal] 238 Jalan Austin Heights 8/2, Taman Mount Austin, 81100 Johor Bahru. Open daily from 11.30am to 11pm. Tel: 607 – 364 8686. Our resident writer Peggy Loh goes scouting for scrumptious food all over Johor Bahru. Reach her for a review at write2peggyloh@gmail.com drinks.

Façade of The Kitchen with the restaurant upstairs, at Taman Mount Austin

The colourful salad bar is filled with leafy greens, a range of beans, chopped fruits and even pickled onions and olives, with sauce choices like French, Honey Mustard and Vinaigrette. The salad items are refreshed regularly to ensure that diners enjoy the freshest pick every time. Organised with sections for Starters, Mains, Rotisseries, Pasta, Pizza, Burgers, Waffles and Desserts, it’s easy to pick from the menu but you may be spoiled for choice!

he Kitchen is named so because the busy kitchen occupies the entire ground floor while the dining hall is upstairs and conveniently accessible by an elevator. Modelled after fast-service restaurants, diners at The Kitchen enjoy the pleasure of being served with speed and efficiency. This dining concept is fast gaining popularity particularly with diners with big appetites, because every main course order comes with free-flow of fresh salad and soft

The Kitchen (Beef) Burger [Foreground] with Barbecued Pork Burger [Background] layered with juicy meat patties, fresh lettuce, cheese and tomato slices

Bacon Aglio Pasta flavoured with a delicious balance of bacon, mushrooms and spicy chilli flakes A whole spring chicken is a good choice for sharing and fun to “fight” over your favourite part and savour its juicy, tender meat. Or you may ask the staff to cut the chicken up for you. Served with a side of potato mash and two sauces – mushroom and black-pepper, the chicken is so full of flavour that you can even eat it on its own! Popular main course choices are Pan-seared Salmon drizzled in Dill Cream Sauce with roasted potatoes and seasonal vegetables, and Baby Back Pork Ribs served with coleslaw and fries. Burger fans will enjoy discovering the interesting layers between the breads and if that’s not enough, each serving comes with a basket of fries. Kitchen’s Burger is made with a beef

The TK Cendol Waffle is a rich confection topped with a scoop of coconut ice-cream, red beans, sweet corn and cendol strings, and flavoured with drizzles of Gula Melaka or palm sugar patty, tomato, lettuce, gherkin, caramelised onions, mayo and avocado spread, while Kitchen’s barbecued Pork Burger is distinguished by a charcoal bun layered with a pork patty, lettuce, tomato, mushrooms, cheese and bacon. If you enjoy pasta, then try Bacon Aglio Pasta which has a delicious balance of flavours from the generous serving of bacon chips, mushrooms and spicy chili flakes in the spaghetti. It’s a pleasant surprise to see how The Kitchen goes local with TK Cendol Waffle for dessert. This is a rich confection topped with a scoop of coconut ice-cream, red beans, sweet corn and cendol strings, and the familiar taste of Gula Melaka or palm sugar. TI

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PROPERT Y INSIGHT

PROPERTY

RESIDENTIAL PROJECTS

APARTMENTS

VILLAS

CONDOMINIUMS

OFFICE/ RETAILSPACE

Cover: MAPEX 2016 Johor Edition As many as 50 developers displayed current and upcoming projects at the recent MAPEX pg 35

Forest City Phoenix Hotel Launched and Phase 1A of Johor Halal Park at 80% Completion

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Phoenix Hotel Forest City Ready for Check-In Highlight

Another milestone to complete Forest City

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Suasana Iskandar: The Next Big Thing Benchmark

Suasana Iskandar’s Marketing Partner, CRA organised a fruitful talk about their product and other developments in Iskandar Malaysia

S Malaysia Prime Minister, Dato’ Seri Najib Tun Razak together with Menteri Besar Johor, Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin (fourth from left) and Country Garden Pacific View (GCPV) Chairman, Yeung Kwok Keung (fourth from right) launched Phoenix Hotel Forest City

hoenix Hotel Fo r e s t C i t y, a four-star hotel built on manmade island mega project Forest City has finally opened for operation to the public after its recent launch by Malaysia Prime Minister Dato’ Seri Najib Tun Razak together with Menteri Besar Johor, Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin and Country Garden Pacific View (GCPV ) Chairman, Yeung Kwok Keung.

Located on a 4.23 acre land, Phoenix Hotel Forest City is the first hotel ever built outside the China province among 50 other hotel chains and expected to provide more job opportunities for local communities and spur tourism prospects in the state. The hotel is complete with a total of 285 guest rooms that starts from RM539 per night, a multipurpose banquet hall to accommodate up to 500

people, meeting rooms and a selection of dining options. Apart from the launch, 36 international co r p o rat i o n s f ro m va r i o u s industries such as Cisco, Huawei, Deutsche Bank, Bank of China and others that accumulated to a market value of 1 trillion USD have inked partnership collaboration for the development of Forest City worth a cumulative investment of 100 billion USD. - by Maressa Esa TI

uasana Iskandar Malaysia is a freehold s e r v i ce re s i d e n ce located at Jalan Trus Off Jalan Wong Ah Fook, right at the heart of Johor Bahru’s city centre. A walk away from the CIQ complex, Suasana Iskandar Malaysia is an integrated residence development along with hotel and retail lots by UMLand Berhad. The 36-storey service residence comprises 335 units in total with units’ sizes ranging from 644 sq.ft. to 1,238 sq.ft. Suasana Iskandar will also be home to the very first Amari Johor Bahru Hotel. “The property market in Iskandar Malaysia has yet to reach its fullest potential and it takes discerning buyers to really appreciate what is available

now and the future”. “With the recent signing of the bilateral agreement for High Speed Rail between Singapore and Malaysia, the landscape will change and move forward where there will also be a shuttle service between Iskandar Puteri (one of the 3 major stations) and Jurong East Station in Singapore. This will definitely transform the way people interact, socialise and do business. The property market in Iskandar will also benefit from this game changer connectivity,” said Director of Chancery Realty Agency (CRA) Ong Tee Hui. The talk was held at UMLand Seri Austin Sales Gallery and was well attended by over 30 participants. TI

Real Life Case Studies Opinion

Insurance 101 – Part Two cover no later than age 70. If one lives beyond 70, then it’s the insured who has outlived the policy and unlikely to make a Death claim.

A.Devadason

CA(M), FCCA, MDRT Deva is a partner in the firm of Dason & Dason, Chartered Accountants who specialises in tax advisory and consultancy. He can be reached at deva@dason.com.my

nsurance is a simple financial instrument. Unfortunately, due to many reasons, it has somewhat become a complicated product these days. I was introduced to a fresh graduate some time back and shall continue with some of his questions:-

Question 7 – Should I get a Whole Life or Term plan? Whole Life policies are plans that

cover the entire life of an individual based on the national average of a country’s population. It is also longer in tenure ranging from 80 to 100 years of age. Unless someone beats this age, which is mostly unlikely, it’s the policy that will win and therefore, a pay-out will be made upon Death. On the other hand, Term Plan tends to be shorter in tenure ranging from coverage for 1 year and usually it has an upper age band till 80 years of age. Most companies in the market usually

Question 8 – My friend told me to buy term and invest the rest. Is that good? Your friend is smart but not entirely correct. He is looking purely from a return perspective. The danger of term plans, as mentioned above, is the risk that the insured outlives the policy and still has not made it big with his/her investments during the income earning years. However, should one be really financially savvy and lucky, then go for term plans and channel all available financial resources and make a killer return on investments. But I wish the person who takes this approach all the best in his/her

quest, as trust me, the person will definitely need all the luck that one can get! In practice, there’s no “onesize suits all” approach. While planning, concepts are similar and actual policies suggested can vary from one advisor to another and in some cases, one insurance provider to another. What’s ultimately important is that it suits you in the exact manner that you wanted. Ask your advisor on the merits of each policy type before arriving at your decision. After answering these basic questions, I moved on to design a suitable coverage to match his expectation and needs. Not only did he get himself covered, he also understood the fundamental principles of personal planning along the way. TI

Quick Reads

IGB on Track It’s been reported that IGB Corp Bhd’s (IGB) ongoing projects are on track to completion. IGB Corp Bhd has raised about RM1 billion in dry powder for its new assets, especially Mid Valley Southkey Megamall and its proposed mixed developments in London and Bangkok. Ongoing projects, namely Southpoint Tower in Mid Valley City and Mid Valley Southkey Megamall in Johor Bahru are on track to be completed by the first half of 2017 (1H17) and second half of 2018 (2H18) respectively. As reported earlier, the project has a combined gross development value (GDV) of RM6 billion, to be developed in a few phases. As for the first phase, IGB will build a mall which is said to be an improved version of the existing mall — Mid Valley Megamall in Kuala Lumpur. As for Southpoint Tower in Mid Valley City, the project has been changed into a mixed development with 25 levels of offices and 19 levels of residential units, and is expected to be completed in April 2017. IGB is also to jointly develop 18@ Medini, a 7.28-hectare plot in Zone A, Medini, Iskandar Malaysia into an integrated commercial development consisting of offices, retail spaces, serviced apartments, food and beverage outlets, entertainment areas and hotel. The total Gross Development Value is estimated RM 2 billion.

UEM in Talks to Sell Iskandar Sites to Investors The Straits Times Singapore recently reported that UEM Sunrise Bhd, the biggest landowner in Iskandar region, is in talks to sell sites to overseas manufac turers to boost economic activity in the area. Companies from South Korea, Japan and Taiwan are in discussions about investment in the Iskandar zone, said Izzaddin Idris, Chief Executive Officer at UEM Group Bhd. “ These investments, which would help the region attract the right mix of industries and tenants, could be announced as early as the first quarter”, said Izzaddin.

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MAPEX 2016 Johor Phase 1A of Johor Halal Park at 80% Completion Instalment Highlight

Key property players gather under one roof

he Malaysian Property Expo 2016 (MAPEX) recently visited the southern region, the only event that brings all key property players under one roof. As many as 50 developers displayed current and upcoming projects in the Johor region, ranging from homes to commercial developments. The second leg of MAPEX’s southern tour was held in PERSADA International Convention Centre and saw the presence of

Development

the Director of State Housing Development, Haji Ibrahim Bin Hamdan. Held over three days, the event saw a positive response from the public, consisting of potential buyers as well as investors with a keen eye. Several local developments were also promoted by their respective companies, including Mah Sing, Sunway Iskandar as well as several other developments by UMLand Berhad including Seri Austin. - by Amin Khairuddin TI

The park with have herbs and spiced themed landscape that can be cultivated for consumption

he country’s first premium integrated halal development, Johor Halal Park (JHP) is set to be a driving catalyst of development in the Johor region, especially in Eastern Iskandar Malaysia. The HALMAS accredited Halal Hub will be an integrated industrial hub with several key features including a Regional Scientific Lab for commercial, halal and TCM, integrated packaging and warehouse logistic facilities which is a part of the regional marketing and clearing house. Mohd Noor Abd Salam, CEO UMLand Johor Halal Park said JHP will be developing a

lab with a green Herbal Techno Park Landscape concept, with herbs and spices being planted to bring a new façade to the development. Among the herbs that will be planted includes Aquilaria Malaccaensis (Gaharu), Champaka, Eurycoma Longifolia (Tongkat Ali) and Cengkih. Phase 1A of the project is at 80% completion and is set to be completed by the end of 2016. JHP will provide the eco-system that balances out high technology and green herbs to make it the first premium Bio-Halal Industrial Park in Malaysia. - by Amin Khairuddin TI

13 Malaysian Developers Acknowledged at the 3rd iProperty.com People’s Choice Awards 2016

he crème da la crème of the property industry in Malaysia received the highest recognition at the 2016 iProperty.com People’s Choice Awards, recently.The glittering night of awards, hosted by iProperty.com, Malaysia’s leading property website, brought together industry leaders for a night of fun and celebrations. Arthur Charlaftis, REA Group Chief Operating Officer – International, welcomed guests to property industry’s awards night. The iProperty Group joined REA Group in February 2016, cementing its position as part of the world’s largest group of digital real estate sites and experiences, with presence in Australia, Asia, Europe and North America. “This event celebrates the

diverse range of achievements delivered by the highest caliber of property developers in Malaysia. We are proud of the fact that the Awards represent the opinions of thousands of people – the individuals who buy, invest, rent, live or work in the developments that these prestigious developers have created,” said Charlaftis. This year there were 13 categories of awards and more

before being shortlisted down to 40 finalists. “Once the entries were shortlisted, members of the public were invited to cast their vote for their most preferred developer and development in the 13 categories. This year, close to 10,000 Malaysians participated in the voting process and here we honoured and celebrated the best,” said Charlaftis. “We would like to

The iProperty.com People’s Choice 2016 Winners

than 100 entries were received

congratulate Mah Sing Group

Berhad for once again clinching the coveted Developer of the Year title for the third consecutive year. The Developer of the Year award is the pinnacle of achievement, demonstrating Mah Sing Group Berhad’s proven track-record in delivering consistent value for their stakeholders, and its strong competencies in delivering quality real estate assets in Malaysia,” said Charlaftis.

The panel of judges comprised 11 industry experts, representing the specialties of design, sustainable planning, digital property advertising. The iProperty.com People’s Choice Awards was sponsored by Astro, Dulux, SAM, TEKA and USG Boral. The voting process, including the shortlisting of nominees to counting of votes, was scrutinised by Panell Kerr Foster (PKF) Malaysia.

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5 Things Missing from Budget 2017 – Part Two Opinion

Khalil Adis Khalil Adis was the former editor of Property Report and he has written for PropertyGuru, iProperty.com, Yahoo! Singapore/Malaysia and various newspapers. Renowned for his independent views and insights, Khalil has given talks at various expos and at property launches. He is also on the judging panel of the South East Asia Property Awards (Malaysia).

Removal of RPGT What: RPGT is a tax on capital gains to prevent speculation in the property market. Why: Removing the Real Property Gains

Graphics The Star

The various experts share their thoughts on what is missing from the budget at the recently concluded Budget 2017 discussion with fellow panelists comprising Dato’ Sri Gavin Tee, Agnes Wong, Caron Tan and Khalil Adis Tax (RPGT) will help to bring the property market in Malaysia back from the doldrums. As of 2014, the RPGT rate for individuals has been increased from 15% to 30%. This has had significant impact on the property market that is already burdened by oversupply of medium to high-end homes, a lacklustre resale market, waning foreign interest as well as tighter loan criteria by Bank Negara. Removing the RPGT will,

in some ways, help to reignite the property market. Increase on GST threshold for individual seller of commercial properties What: Currently, a GST of 6% is levied for commercial land exceeding 1 acre and/or commercial properties valued at above RM2 million. There is currently two tests for GST to be applicable - a business and an intention to supply (see diagram above and below): Why: Increasing the threshold for commercial property and land will help to ease the burden from individual property investors. “The three criteria are “or” not “and” so it can be easily met by many individual as well as nonseasonal investors. These group

Business test on GST. Graphics Khalil Adis Consultancy of buyers will be affected as the result of the low GST registration threshold,” said Agnes Wong, a tax expert and Managing Partner of Syarikat Ong group of companies. What : Currently, residential houses are categorised under exempt GST category. This means developers cannot claim back on their GST inputs, for example building and construction materials and so on. Hence, it forms part of the construction cost of developers. “To make or maintain profitability, the developers will be offloading these costs into its

selling price to residential buyers,” said Wong. Why: Zero rated GST will entice developers to build governmentrelated affordable home projects as this means they can claim back on their GST inputs. “The ability for developers to claim back the GST inputs from the construction costs of residential will allow a more efficient cost management of construction cost. This will allow developers to better price their residential products and be align with the government objective of building more affordable homes,” concluded Wong.

Intention to supply test on GST. Graphics Khalil Adis Consultancy

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