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Traders Hotel soft launch at Puteri Harbour >>PAGE 11 Nusajaya
JB Transformation Open Day held last year at Galleria@Kotaraya saw a big turnout as members of the public were curious to know more. The organisers are expecting a bigger turnout during the second Open Day in July.
Transforming Johor Bahru! Community: The second JB Transformation Open Day is all set to be held from the 5th till 7th of July at Galleria@Kotaraya
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B Transformation Team; a collaboration between Iskandar Regional Development Authority (IRDA) and Johor Bahru City Council (MBJB) has been formed in 2010 to focus in strengthening JB City’s role as capital of Johor, a vibrant city with economic activities and living population in one conducive
environment. The programme has also been selected as one of the focus area in the Corridor and City Transformation programmes which was launched by YAB Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak in March 2012, with a vision “To rejuvenate and revitalize JB City Center as a liveable city that attracts vibrant
activities and population”. Since the announcement of the JB Transformation Programme in 2010, JB City Centre has enjoyed tremendous response from various investors, ranging from Small Medium Enterprise to well-known investors. >>Continued on page 6
Huge turnout for Johor International Treasure Hunt >>PAGE 12 2012 >>PAGE 3
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02 KIDZANIA GO! MARKS FIRST PILOT ACTIVITY IN JOHOR KDN : PP17797/06/2012(032765) MICA : MCI(P) 099/06/2013
Career Pickup points Community: role-play activities for TOURISM CENTRES: Johor Tourist Information Centre @ JOTIC Kiosk Pelancongan MBJB @ Jln Tun Sri Lanang Tourism Malaysia Tourist Information Centre @ JB CIQ COMPLEX & JB SENTRAL INFORMATION COUNTERS: SENAI AIRPORT Columbia Asia Hospital KFCH OFFICE LOBBIES: CITY PLAZA TOWER ISKANDAR REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY (IRDA) ISKANDAR INVESTMENT BERHAD (IIB) Iskandar Waterfront EATERIES (F&B): Annalakshmi JALAN IBRAHIM 8Lido STRAITS VIEW Tutti Frutti KEBUN TEH SETIA TROPIKA LEGOLAND BierHaus JOHOR JAYA TAMAN SENTOSA Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf City Square Plaza Pelangi
children between the ages of 6-14 a big hit during career exhibition at Kulaijaya
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idZania Go!, the mobile version of the indoor educational and entertainment theme park KidZania Kuala Lumpur, embarked on its maiden voyage to Kulai, Johor. KidZania Go! Was part of a two-day education and career exhibition (22-23 May), organized by the District Education Office of Kulai in conjunction with a district-wide celebration of Teacher’s Day. This activity in Kulai is part of a pilot programme conducted by KidZania Go! that plans to go regional. KidZania Go! has been designed to complement out-of-classroom activities held in schools while providing students with the opportunity to experience some of KidZania Kuala Lumpur’s career role-play activities. Tailored for children between the ages of 6-14, role-play activities that can be experienced through KidZania Go! include being a junior optician at the Hoya Eye Experience Centre, interior and exterior designer at the Nippon Designing Studio, as well as ad talent and production crew and delivery officer at the Dutch Lady Studio and Dutch Lady Distribution Centre respectively. Children can also role play as junior painters,
School children excited to participate in KidZania Go! activities newscasters, sports readers and weatherman. Through its activities, KidZania Go! aims to present a diverse and attractive experience as well as to provide a firstclass immersive and interactive recreation environment for both children and teachers. “KidZania Kuala Lumpur provides a fun and educational experience to children, while helping them build their confidence and develop their social, psychomotor and cognitive skills,” said Madam Susanah Abdul Rani, General Manager of KidZania Kuala
Lumpur. “We are committed to ensuring that this opportunity is extended to all, which is why we have developed KidZania Go! – we want to bring KidZania to you!” Madam Susanah elaborated. KidZania Go! activities are carried out by KidZania Kuala Lumpur’s Zupervisors, who have undergone intensive and extensive training programmes, which helps them not just in conducting the various activities but also in knowing how to handle a child in different situations.
HIGHLIGHTS
HOTELS: Thistle Johor Bahru The ZON Regency Hotel Granada Hotel Many other participating hotels Gated & Guarded Communities and Others: Taman Molek Zone 3, Tmn Impian Emas Jln 60-70, Austin Heights Club House Wang Loo Motor (Honda) Saleng Many more car showrooms and service centers Also available for pick-up at Selected Taxis & Busses And at various Associations Want to become a distribution point? Email us today at: admin@theiskandarian.com
No more hazy days for Johor Bahru
The Iskandarian will be placed in 7000 taxis in Johor Bahru with Phase 1of 2000 pockets already sent out. >>More on page 12
Hotlines Johor Police HQ 07-221 2999 / 07-225 4499
JB North Police IPD 07-556 3122
Ministry of Tourism (Johor) 07-223 3171
Tourism Malaysia Johor 07-222 3590 / 91
Immigration 07-224 4233
JB South Police IPD 07-2218 999
Nusajaya Police IPD 07-511 4222
Tourism Malaysia Hotline 1300 88 5050
Johor Tourism 07-223 4935 / 224 9960
Senai International Airport 07-599 4500
Iskandar Regional Development Authority (IRDA) 07-233 3000
Please recycle this newspaper after reading. Thank you Published by True Soul Entertainment [14, Jln. Selasih 10, Taman Kemas, 81200, Johor Bahru] Printed by Percetakan Gemilang Sinar/Gan Seng Printing(M) Sdn.Bhd. [No.100, Jalan Tampoi, 81200, Johor Bahru] Copyright of articles, contributions and photos which are published by The Iskandarian is the property of True Soul Entertainment. 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.
news YOUTH’S PERSPECTIVE ON FREE COPY ISSUE 11 | JUL 2013
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Iskandar Malaysia Asyikien Mohd Noor, Age: 18
The YOUTH can change the future of society with their socially conscious views and courageous behaviour. In motivating the gen-y to be more opinionated, The Iskandarian speaks to everyday teens to derive their suggestions and opinions about Iskandar Malaysia and its tenets of developments. The Iskandarian also invites all youths to share your thoughts with us via email at: newsdesk@theiskandarian.com
The Iskandarian
Do’s & Don’ts ith Iskandar Malaysia aspiring to reach greater heights, The Iskandarian citizens have a vital role to play whereby we must undergo some changes from within ourselves. A first class mentality has to be instilled where we accept nothing less than top notch performance in all things. To prepare ourselves for that, here is a quick recommended guideline on the Do’s and Don’ts. This will be a monthly column to showcase the good, the bad and the ugly of fellow Iskandarians.
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What kind of entertainment do you prefer? I prefer entertainments that help bring the youths together and one that would give us collective benefit. What kind of family holiday destination do you usually look forward to? Apart from heading to Sunway Lagoon or Genting Highlands in Kuala Lumpur, I’d like to include going to LEGOLAND Malaysia which is closer to home. LEGOLAND Malaysia here in Iskandar Malaysia is the first LEGOLAND in Asia. As a consumer and member of the public, what are your feelings about this? I am truly happy it is here and I feel that it is good to have this kind of entertainment as it will help contribute to our country’s economy. What other kinds of leisure projects development would you like to see in future? Definitely Water Theme park!
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What does it mean for the youth in Iskandar Malaysia to see so many leisure and tourism products coming up? I think it is good as we will all co-operate together
to boost our country’s economy through tourism. Besides that, I feel more proud to be a Johorian as we do not have to go elsewhere for leisure.
Faulty lights being replaced regardless of the hazy conditions
-Submitted by Muhammad Akmal (Wadi Hana)
How do you see Johor before and now (with the development of Iskandar Malaysia)? So many positive changes have been made and I would love to see more drastic changes in the future! As a youth, how do you see yourself contributing to the growth of the leisure and tourism sector in Iskandar Malaysia? I usually take part in the activities that are held by the private and government sector and would continue to do so. Any other comments? No, thank you.
An errant family seen here without using their helmets, placing even their young child at risk! -Submitted by Norazah Ali (Taman Cempaka)
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Snap your thoughts and send in pictures to our Do’s & Don’ts segment today: newsdesk@theiskandarian.com
Chellam is an everyday Joe encountering the trials and tribulations of everyday folks. Chellam’s encounters aren’t merely for comic relief but more to instigate mindset change. Email us if you have any suggestions: newsdesk@theiskandarian.com
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Training future trainers
Community: IRDA and Multi Media Development Cooperation organised a two days course to train aspiring cyberpreneurs
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skandar Regional Development Authority’s (IRDA) Social Development division alongside Multi Media Development Cooperation ran a two day course on cyberpreneurship for enthusiast from villages. The purpose of the event was to create a pool of cyberpreneurs and trainers whereby, once they have gained the knowledge and benefits of cyberpreneurship, they can market their products online and even venture into training new aspirants. “The attendees’ rate is very impressive with most of them already having basic IT knowledge making it much easier to convey the techniques,” said Mohd Amin Othman, Vice President of Social Development from IRDA. The course initially targeted thirty
representatives from eleven villages but representatives from the Department of Social Welfare, IRDA’s change agents and teachers made the turnout more conducive. The two days course is part of IRDA’s mindset change agenda of transitioning Johorians’ from third class to first class mentality. TM Net supported the initiative by sponsoring the broadband coverage for the event. In time, the organisers will conduct more such courses and promote more cyberpreneur products. The attendees have be inducted into a facebook group page to measure progress reports and in two months, the group will reconveign to update on their development as cyberpreneurs.
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Charity Futsal Tournament
Community: Columbia Asia Hospital organises Charity Futsal Tournament 2013 in aid of the Malaysian Blind Sports Association
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n conjunction with Father’s Day month, Columbia Asia Hospital recently held a charity futsal tournament for men of various ages at the Millenium Sports Centre, Skudai to create better awareness on men’s health and fitness. The grand prize was RM1,500 and won by the BBFC Team (B). This tournament was in aid of the Malaysian Blind Sports Association that targets to have its team participate in the next ASIAN Paralympics to be held in Incheon, South Korea in October 2014.
This is where the Columbia Asia Charity Futsal Tournament 2013 comes in to help them realise this dream. In line with exercising their Corporate Social Responsibility policy, the hospital hopes to raise funds through 8 of their chain of hospitals at Nusajaya, Seremban, Shah Alam, Bukit Rimau, Puchong, Setapak, Cheras and Taiping. The tournament was participated by members of the public (playing futsal) alongside all levels of staff of Columbia Asia, from medical to management.
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After almost 3 years of planning, promoting and engaging with various investors and business communities, the team has decided to continue sharing the achievement, future plans and vision As a result, in 2012, MBJB recorded 55.56% increase in development applications and 20.28% increment in new business activities. Between 2011 until early 2013, the transformation committee has received many development applications which demonstrate investors’ confidence on the transformation plans. Currently, there are 9 committed projects ranging from commercial to residential developments. Some of the completed redevelopments are; Refurbishment of Galleria@Kotaraya, City Square and Amansari Hotel at Jalan Wong Ah Fook. Ongoing projects are Revitalization of KOMTAR, Hotel at Landmark Mall by Daiman Group, service apartments by Grand Action along inner ring road, and Mahabuilders service apartments at Jalan Meldrum and all committed and future projects that make JB City Centre as a destination to visit, invest, do business and live. After almost 3 years of planning, promoting and engaging with various investors and business communities, the team has decided to continue sharing the achievement, future plans and vision of JB Transformation Programme by having a 3 day Open Day with the theme
‘The New Journey’. The Open Day will showcase 4 important subjects namely, the development status in the city, proposed government initiatives, arts, heritage and cultural programmes as well as local councils’ initiatives to rejuvenate and revitalize the city into a vibrant city for economic activities and conducive living environment. The 3 day event programme will be held at Galleria@Kotaraya. For more details, contact: Johan Arifin Mohd Ropi, Vice President, Iskandar Regional Development Authority. Office : 07-233 3000 / 3127 Phone : 019 – 7722442 Email : johan@irda.com.my Fax: 07-233 3001 Amiluddin Tajudin Associate, Iskandar Regional Development Authority Office : 07- 233 3000 / 3089 Phone : 012-7450390 Email : amiluddin@irda.com.my Fax: 07-233 3001
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JB Transformation Open Day at Galleria@Kotaraya Day 1 5th July 2013 9.00 am – 1.00 pm (Stage 1 & 2) Recycle Materials – A workshop of how to reuse the recycled materials Environment 3.00 pm – 5.30 pm Bicarawara (Heritage and Culture) i. Ar. Razin - Conservation ii. Dato’ Paiman - Conservation - Arts and Heritage (Stage 2) Day 2 6th July 2013 10.00 am – 1.00 pm Talk on Business Licences by MBJB’s Officer (Stage 2) i. License Registration ii. House Renovation - Economy 3.00 pm – 5.30 pm Launching and Ground Breaking by Johor Chief Minister (Stage 1) 8.00 pm Talk on historical values, youths’ role in Transforming JB and acoustic shows - Arts and Heritage (Stage 2) Day 3 7th July 2013 10.00 am – 1.00 pm Transportation (Liveability) by Transport Team (Stage 1) i. Awareness to use public transport ii. Update on transport - Social 3.00 pm – 5.30 pm Safety Security by PDRM - Social (Stage 2)
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The Iskandarian Monthly Drill
The Iskandarian aspires to be the voice of the rakyat and with that in mind, our Editor has designated this column to be a monthly feature where we get in touch with CEO’s and Chairman’s of organisation and drill them with questions that is in the mind of our readers. If you have anyone in mind or would like us to pose a particular question, feel free to drop us an email: admin@theiskandarian.com. Login to www.facebook.com/TheIskandarian to find out who will be on the next Drill board. Joining the Drill this month is Mr. Yap Siong Cheng founder of The Johor Society for the Performing Arts (JSPA)
Tell us about the beginnings of JB Arts Festival and what motivated its founding? It was a combination of madness and wanting to change the status quo! I have always enjoyed the performing arts since young. Growing up in JB in the 1960s and 1970s, my exposure to music was limited to the radio and avidly collecting vinyl records. When I went to London for further studies, I was transported from the art backwaters of JB to the performing arts centre of the world. When I returned from London in 1983, the contrast could not have been starker. So, in 1998 Suzie (the Festival Director) and I decided to get together a group of people in JB who were interested in the arts to meet regularly. In 2000, we formed a society dedicated to the advancement and promotion of the performing arts in Johor – The Johor Society for the Performing Arts (JSPA). In the first three years, we successfully organized concerts that received encouraging public response. In 2004, we decided to organize the inaugural Johor Arts Festival and I remember at that time, friends thought we were quite crazy. But we are now in our 10th year! What were the difficulties faced in putting together the festival? One of the main difficulties was trying to get people to understand and accept the idea of a month-long arts festival covering a wide spectrum of disciplines of performing arts, which was, especially at the beginning, alien to most people in JB. It was not easy to get them to see that the annual JB Arts Festival can be of significant value to the Iskandar Malaysia region and JB city, and something to be proud of. However, the major difficulty faced by us was, and still is, the procurement of sufficient funding for the Festival. It has been a problem from the beginning and remains a problem today. Last year, the Festival offered more than 150 programmes, involving over 900 performers and over 500 hours of performances and other activities. Every year, we build the Festival Village, at Bukit Timbalan
from scratch right from constructing the stage, bringing in tents, and gensets for power and our own water. Then, there are sound and lighting issues to resolve, advertising and promotion, safety and security issues, accommodation and transportation for the performers and participants, and catering of meals for everyone. We have always been hampered by a lack of manpower, but this problem could be solved with sufficient funding to bring in more people to work in the festival. Has the state government and other government agencies been a help or hindrance to the festival?
How is the response rate from the public over the 10 year tenure? Our estimates for people attending last year’s Festival is around 200,000 to 250,000 people, which I think is a conservative estimate. We have come a long way since the inaugural festival in 2004. Year by year we see attendance figures increasing. Even our workshops now show promising attendances. I remember only two people turning up for a guitar workshop at the second Festival. In the last few years, we are also seeing more arts groups, local and international, approaching us and wanting to be part of the Festival.
Will the JB Arts Festival sustain the The state government has been weathers of time? supportive in terms of funding, but we are hopeful that they would do For ten years, the JB Arts Festival has more to ease some of the logistical and been an NGO-driven effort, led largely bureaucratic issues we face every year. by the admirable and untiring efforts of In addition, the Iskandar a few individuals. We do hope that the Regional Development Authority state government or a body like IRDA (IRDA) has, in the past two or three will take a decisive stake in the future of festivals, gradually increased their the festival. There is a need for them to support for the Festival in various decide if the JB Arts Festival is valuable ways. They are now our co-organizers, enough to the city. If so, there must be a for which we are grateful and welcome commitment to support the festival in a this development. I think they do much bigger way in terms of increased recognize and appreciate the value funding as well as logistical support to of the arts festival to JB and ensure the arts festival continues to Iskandar Malaysia as a thrive and grow. whole. A n o t h e r What would help the “One of the main major problem festival? the government really should With stronger, difficulties was address is clearer and the lack of more decisive trying to get people s u i t a b l e support and performing endorsement to understand and arts venues from the in JB. I find government, it accept the idea of it incredulous will encourage that JB does private and a month-long arts not have a single corporate sponsors auditorium or to readily support the festival” hall dedicated to Festival. the performing arts, with acoustical engineering What are the steps taken to and proper sound, lighting and ensure the festival is of international stage facilities. Such infrastructural standards? enhancements will greatly assist us in giving wider programming options at When we started the JB Arts Festival, the Festival, thus further enhancing our vision was for it to embrace four the prestige of the Festival. key elements. First, the Festival must
Mr. Yap Siong Cheng founder of The Johor Society for the Performing Arts (JSPA)
have a local/Malaysian component, and be a platform for local talents. Second, it must have an international component, exposing the city to international talents, arts and culture. Third, it must be educational, such as workshops of an educational nature. Fourth, the Festival should have an interactive element, with programmes encouraging local participation. To ensure that the Festival includes all four components, we have divided the Festival into a main festival, featuring local and international performances of certain repute; as well as a fringe programmes as a platform for budding local artistes and art groups. Hence, our exhortative tagline – “LIVE THE ARTS!” More people are aware of the Festival and many people are now regulars. We have even received inquiries from performing arts groups from the UK, Europe, India and others to participate and perform in the Festival and this is a proud recognition. What’s in store for the regulars for the 10th installation of JB Arts Festival? This year’s JB Arts Festival is shaping up to be our biggest one. Regulars will get the opportunity to catch up with old favourites who have long supported the Festival, such as Roger Wang, Loo Bang Hean, Akasha, ASWARA, Comedy Court and the Malaysian Association of Chinese Comedians. While the Festival Village will again be at Bukit Timbalan, we will be bringing some performances to Danga Bay and Eight Lido. There will also be new, exciting shows to look forward to. We are bringing in a DJ from Thailand, Hossan Leong from Singapore and may even try to have a staging of Shakespeare in Bahasa Malaysia which is something truly novel. We are also trying to come up with “Friends of the Arts (FARTS)” outlet concept, where eateries around the city offer discounts to customers carrying the FARTS card. This is in line with our intention to make the JB Arts Festival an inclusive festival for the people of JB. All in all, I think that regulars and the newcomers to the JB Arts Festival will truly have a festival to remember this September.
news TRADERS HOTEL DEBUTS AT PUTERI HARBOUR FREE COPY ISSUE 11 | JUL 2013
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Tourism: Located at Puteri Harbour Nusajaya, one of the 5 flagship zones of Iskandar Malaysia, the 4 star business hotel is open for reservations
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obert Kuok’s Shangri-La Hotels and Resorts has now launched its third Traders hotel in Malaysia with the opening of its 283-rooms hotel at Puteri Harbour, Johor. The soft launch was officiated by Mr. Michael Cottan, Executive Vice President, Shangri-La International Hotel Management Pte Ltd, Ms. Charlene Cheng, Vice President Sales & Marketing, Shangri-La International Hotel Management Pte. Ltd and Mr. Sigi Bierbaumer, General Manager, Traders Hotel, Puteri Harbour, Johor, Malaysia and other representatives. The hotel’s four-storey towers and landscaped walkways are fronted by Puteri Harbour and it also completes the Little Red Cube that houses the Puteri Harbour Family Theme Park, alfresco restaurants on the promenade of a marina, and retail outlets. Legoland Malaysia is also not far off and a complimentary shuttle service from the hotel is available.
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Michael Cottan said that he is optimistic Traders would have 60% occupancy of mixed corporate market but it could be more due to Puteri Harbour, its environment, leisure opportunities and surrounding developments. The hotel has stylish guestrooms and are fitted with a spacious bathroom, 40-inch television and a mini- bar, among other practical features. Other conveniences include free Internet access throughout the hotel, a rooftop infinity pool, a health club that provides massage services, gym, a landscaped rooftop garden and a business centre in addition to basement parking spaces. . The Western and contemporary offerings at the all- day Harbour Café restaurant is also not to be missed. As an opening promotion, Traders Hotel is offering an overnight stay in a Deluxe Room at RM380, which is subject to prevailing tax and service charge and includes breakfast buffet for two people.
KENNY ROGERS ROASTERS INTRODUCES ITS FIRST DRIVE-THRU SERVICE IN ASIA
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enny Rogers ROASTERS (KRR), a mid-casual dining restaurant, famous for its rotisserie roasted chicken has achieved yet another great milestone with the introduction of its first drive-thru service in Asia which will be available in the KRR restaurant located in Setia Tropika, Johor Bahru. Starting from 12 June 2013, the public will get to enjoy healthy and wholesome meals without the hassle of queuing or having to look for parking! With its first drive-thru outlet, KRR is encouraging the public to enjoy healthy meals on-the-go. The new initiative also aims to dispel the myth that healthy food cannot be obtained easily and quickly. “At Kenny Rogers ROASTERS, we want everyone to be healthy. We understand that in this fast evolving society, the pleasure of a sit-down dining experience to enjoy a
All are welcome at JCI JB JCI Johor Bahru is a very unique, and also a very well structured membership based nonprofit organisation. Established in 1989, the organisation is one of the 54 local organisations in Malaysia and registered with the Registry of Youth (ROS) in Malaysia. The Mission of JCI is to help communities through the activation of young citizens. We believe that by taking responsibility for our communities, we can create solutions to the problems we see around us and create a sustainable improvement. In the earlier days, JCI Johor Bahru was formerly known as Jaycees Johor Bahru and was established to serve the local community by providing four different areas of opportunities, such as Individual, Business, Community and International. Every project, event, or action a JCI Member takes, is in line with the four areas of opportunities mentioned above. In area of Individual, the association provides an excellent platform for young citizens to improve themselves by taking part in the JCI official courses or any other seminars, workshops or trainings organised by JCI. In area of International, JCI is an international organisation that holds conferences and congresses every year around the globe. JCI Members are given opportunities to travel around the world to meet other JCI Members from different continents. In area of Community, JCI members develop sensitivity to societal problems. For examples, JCI Johor Bahru has worked hand in hand
healthy meal is hard to come by. The main objective of introducing KRR drive-thru service is to offer the public the ability to tailor their dining experience to suit their lifestyle, enjoying a healthy and wholesome meal within minutes,” said Dato’ Francis Lee, Group Executive Director of Berjaya Roasters (M) Sdn Bhd. “In this fast paced society, drive-thru service has been seen as an added advantage for businesses as we tend to race against time. Since its inception on 5 February, we have noticed a marked increase in our sales revenue. We expect the drive-thru to contribute 20% towards sales at our JB outlet. As part of our expansion plan, we are exploring suitable strategic locations in the Klang Valley to implement subsequent drive thru counters as we truly believe the drivethru option will appeal to a broad range of customers,” he added. Fu Yee Woei is the President of Junior Chamber of Commerce Johor Bahru (JCI JB). He can be reached at fuyeewoei@yahoo.com and president.jcijb@gmail.com
with Iskandar Regional Development Authority (IRDA) by organising a week long learning festival which provided learning opportunities to Iskandar Malaysia communities. In area of Business, our members can exchange business ideas and do business with other interested members, not only in their own organisation or country but also with a network of more than 200,000 members around the world. Various entrepreneurship trainings, seminars and workshops are provided globally to enhance one’s company or work. JCI Johor Bahru is led by a group of young and dynamic active citizens aged between 18 to 40 years old. We implement, “One year to lead”, whereby any elected officer is only allowed to hold his office once in his or her membership tenure. The local organisation is led by a President who is elected during the Annual General. For the year 2013, my Presidential theme is “Be Committed”. We are a non-profit organisation that requires tremendous effort and time to achieve the goals set from the earlier years. It may appear that there are no physical monetary returns for all the efforts contributed, but in reality, we are all benefited from the recognition and values that we have received from the public. Monetary returns are not comparable with such prestigious recognition and honour. Find us at www.jci.cc/local/johorbahru; Like Us at Facebook | JCI Johor Bahru; or contact us at fuyeewoei@yahoo.com and president.jcijb@ gmail.com
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Members of PETEKMA Johor listening to a brief about placing The Iskandarian Community Newspaper in all 7000 taxis in Johor Bahru as a joint initiative to reach out to the masses. The taxis will comprise of red taxis, executive blue taxis, white airport limos and taxis bound to Singapore. The effort is a collaboration between The Iskandarian, True Soul Entertainment, Johor Tourism, SPAD and IRDA’s Social Development Department.
The Iskandarian
Quick Reads
Celebrate Life At The Breast Cancer Support Group, Johor Bahru (BCSG JB), they choose not to live in fear. Fear of the treatment or fear that this twitch, this ache means the Big C has come back! Activities organised by BCSG JB include singing, line dancing, craft, and a lot of pot lucks as well as activities that make the members laugh and have fun. They organise walks as well and the last one was to the Hutan Bandar at Impian Emas to celebrate Mother’s day and on 30th June, a portion of Gunung Ledang was trekked upon. By their actions, they show new patients and survivors that there is life after breast cancer. The Health Team in BCSG JB provides a listening ear as they know the journey through treatment is difficult. “We lend out wigs and organise look- good sessions with a cosmetic group to make new patients feel ‘beautiful’. To patients who have undergone mastectomies, The P & B Team helps to do fittings for silicon prostheses and mastectomy bras.”
JOHOR INTERNATIONAL TREASURE HUNT
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ohor International Treasure Hunt 2013 is a recreational tourism adventure organized by the Ministry of Tourism and Culture Malaysia, Johor. In its third consecutive year, this event is one of the initiatives by the Ministry to showcase Johor as a tourist destination through a relaxing recreational activity which is not only fun but also giving an insight about Johor and its various tourism products. The event was inaugurated by the Tourism, Trade and Consumer Affairs Minister, Datuk Tee Siew Kiong. The event kicked off from Johor Bahru and ended at Mersing, Johor. The participants voyaged a distance of 198 km and encountered several scenic tourist destinations en route from Johor Bahru to Mersing. More than 60 vehicles or about 250 participants came from outstation where prizes worth RM 15,000.00 were up for grabs. “The main objective of Johor International Treasure Hunt 2013 is to set this as a platform to promote Johor as an attractive travel destination which preserves history and heritage,” said the Director of the Ministry
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of Tourism and Culture Johor, Mohammad Isa Abdul Halim. It was further said that “some of the participants may have never toiled in the fields or fished and this gave them an opportunity of a lifetime and may never be forgotten”. Besides that, Legoland Malaysia was introduced as the newest tourist destination in Johor which is located at Iskandar Malaysia and participants were also brought to the royal tomb of Sultan Mahmud Mangkat Dijulang located at Kg Makam, Kota Tinggi. Tasks performed by the participants in each selected location were compatible with the surroundings and participants gained interesting experience and knowledge which are beneficial to them. The closing and prize giving ceremony took place at the Diamond Jubilee Hall Mersing and was inaugurated by the President of the Mersing District Council, Zainal Eran. This year, the first prize went to the ‘4WD Group’ and besides winning the cash prize, they also received hampers worth Rs 4,000.00, while the second prize (RM 3,000.00)
went to the ‘Crazy Hunters’ and third place (RM 2,000.00) was conquered by ‘The Lucky Ones’. Mohamad Isa concluded that may these activities be continued as a prestigious and annual event by the Ministry of Tourism Malaysia Johor and if all goes well, Segamat and Kluang may be hosting this event next year. The Johor International Treasure Hunt 2013 was also supported by the Johor Tourism Department, Tourism Malaysia, Johor Corporation, the Institute of Management and Development Johor, MBJB, District Council of Kota Tinggi and District Council of Mersing as well as other strategic partners, the Department of Marine Park Malaysia Johor, Felcra Sungai Ara, Homestay Air Papan, Mall Of Medini and Hotel Seri Malaysia Mersing. Also contributing to the event is TPM Technopark Sdn Bhd, Damansara Assets Sdn Bhd and Johor Land Berhad and managed by Convenue Marketing. The public may get in touch with the organizers for more details via its Facebook page at facebook.com / johor. treasure.hunt
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MOU Endorsement Ceremony
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NGO’s: Iconic move as JBCCCI And IMCCIJ signed a memorandum of understanding at Grand Bluewave Hotel
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n conjunction with JB-Asean International Trade Expo & Business Forum to be held from 19th-21st September 2013, Johor Bahru Chinese Chamber of Commerce & Industry (JBCCCI) together with Iskandar Malaysia Chamber of Commerce & Industry Johor (IMCCIJ) signed a MOU in Grand Bluewave Hotel, JB. The MOU endorsement ceremony creates a platform for both parties to highlight the significance of the expo while adding credentials to it as one of international standards. The MOU will bind the two chambers in the exchange of business information between their members. Members of both chambers will get to interact freely with visiting foreign trade delegates through various NGO business meetings, joint business training programmes, overseas business missions and exhibitions. Representing JBCCCI for the signing
ceremony was their president, Datuk Loh Liam Hiang who expressed utmost optimism on this collaboration. “I am extremely happy to see so many familiar faces today. In fact, we have worked on several occasions before this and see this as a long overdue move. Now we can move forward together for the betterment of the expo and prepare ourselves adequately for the challenges posed by AFTA in 2015,” he said. Mr. Salikon bin Saripin, president of IMCCIJ was also elated with the partnership and upon endorsing the MOU quoted later, “This is one small move but a major leap forward for both chambers. We are honoured to be an integral part of JB-Asean Trade Expo 2013 at the invitation of JBCCCI. This is just the beginning and I see both chambers working in tandem to place Iskandar Malaysia as a significant location on the world business map.”
(from left) The President of JBCCCI Datuk Loh Liam Hiang and the President of IMCCIJ Mr. Salikon bin Saripin signing the MOU
Artwork Creates Happiness
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rty Party is a Johor Bahru art community organiser of arts and crafts events. Its aim is to discover local talents and introduce new and emerging artists in design, music, food, painting, handcrafts, aesthetic appreciation performers and etc Started since December 2012, Arty Party has brought many wonderful people together in their past few themed events.“Santa’s Last Minute Shopping”@ Eats and Beats Cafe Jalan Tan Hiok Nee, “Chinese New Year Art & Craft Market” @ Perodua Plentong Branch and “Art by the Bay” @ Cheers Bar and Grill, Danga Bay Marina Club Arty Party had their first social gathering in June themed ‘Mingle, Chat and get Inspired’ for art lovers be it crafters, artists or performers at Jitterbug Cafe, Plentong. It was an evening of sharing experiences, contributing ideas
and getting inspiration for future events. The evening had performances by poets Saudagar Garam and Bunga Hana Nordin. Their upcoming event themed “Paint Your Life” on 7 July 2013, will be held at Kiwanis Careheart Centre from 10a.m till 5p.m. Activites comprises an Art&Crafts Market and a State level art competition for special needs children and adults by Rotary Club of Johor Centennial. This art competition will enable the special needs people to develop and recognise their full potential in the visual medium. It is also a form of expression to develop connections between the two discipline that is, express their opinion and to create their own individual artworks. For more information on Arty party, please visit www.fb.com/artyparty. my
July 2013 ENDORSED BY
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scan to visit website
Inside: Droolicious Chocolate Cakes by Bryan Oh and learn the art of solving problems!
Editor ’s Note
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amadan Kareem to all our Muslim readers. It’s a month where the fasting begins and at the same time feasting for the others; thanks to the Ramadan food bazaars mushrooming at various locations! However, we’d like to caution that do not get carried away by all the wonderful temptations and be kind to your body. Speaking of food and staying healthy, do check out Kenny Rogers Roasters’ (KKR) first drive thru service at Setia Tropika and tell us what you think of this concept. In this month, we bring you not one, but two different type of food reviews for you to choose from. Choose either a Chinese fine
dining experience at the newly opened Wan Li Restaurant at Renaissance Hotel or go for the Iranian option at Parsia Iranian Restaurant at Taman Universiti. Also in store for you is a feature on “Oh My Cakes”. Some may or may not have tried Bryan’s droolicious cakes, and if you are wondering what we are raving about, do flip over the page to know more. Also do not forget to read about our favourite city under the travel column brought to you by the JB Cool team. July is also the month where we turn two! So, kudos to the editorial team for bringing you nothing but the best! We’d like to thank all our readers and contributors
for their support thus far. Besides that, it’s the continuation month of the Great Mega Malaysia Sale Carnival 2013 (nationwide), so now would be a perfect time to grab some good bargains and gifts especially with all the festivities around the corner. What other better excuse you need to go for some retail therapy?! With lots of things happening in July, it’s time to mark your diary and get busy and for those wishing to share their clothing line/recipes or travel tales or like us to review your restaurant/property, drop us a mail at admin@waveslifestyle.com today and be featured.
Priya Manikam editor@waveslifestyle.com
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The Iskandarian | WAVES Lifestyle
Let’s get baking with Bryan Oh…
Bryan is a Le Cordon Bleu trained chef who worked a stint at Sydney’s fine dining restaurants before returning home to Johor Bahru. He is trained in French cuisine and baking is his forte, especially his “Droolicious Chocolate Cakes! Share with us your culinary journey in Sydney. The journey traces from UK in 2008 where I had graduated in Marketing. I had worked for a real estate company and worked part-time in a hotel (F&B) whilst studying. In 2009, I returned to Malaysia due to personal reasons and worked at a real estate company in J.B. My brother who is in Sydney, encouraged me to join him as I was always good in cooking and pursued my skills at Le Cordon Bleu Institute, Sydney.
for my cakes as some really loved it and some not really and there were others without any comments! During its first launch, I had some cakes donated to Berkat Home charity as I wanted to share them with children especially during Christmas. Subsequently, I invested in its packaging as presentation mattered to customers.
with Warren Turnbull, a celebrity chef who is down to earth and taught and paid me well. I had a good exposure in his restaurants – Assiette restaurant and District Dining. The latter was nominated as the Best Restaurant in 2011 and it is here that I got into pastry making whilst helping through the departments. So, I guess my love for baking evolved.
What made you return to J.B thereafter? I returned in 2012 and intended to open up a bakery without having profit in mind but to provide a social service by selling affordable cakes using the best ingredients such as pure imported butter and using less sugar. I wanted to be socially responsible as well be health conscious.
What are the struggles you had to overcome in order to succeed? Finance! I had to use my own savings to start up. My parents were supportive (initially) but subsequently I receive some discouragements purely out of common fears. I also do not believe in competing but competition per se is good. I always stuck by the motto to be courteous and humble and the response is welcoming.
You started Oh My Cakes, an online bakery. How did this idea conceptualise? I baked a chocolate cake for my friend during a potluck in late 2012, and he suddenly said “Oh My Cakes”! A lot of names were played around and Oh My Cakes sounded more casual, funny and I didn’t want to oversell yet giving people the best. Therefore, it started off online at a reasonable price of RM68 for a 1kg cake, using only the finest ingredients. I had mixed response
You are a Le Cordon Bleu trained chef in French cuisine, so what made you focus in baking instead of French food? Whilst being involved in the fine dining experience, I was fortunate enough to be picked by Masterchef Australia to work behind the scenes. It was a great exposure and I had a good opportunity to work with Michelin star, Adriano Zumbo, and at Aria by Matt Moran that had over 50 staffs! I subsequently, worked
Do you only specialise in chocolate cakes or are you planning to venture into other bakery products? In fact I had baked and sold pineapple jam tarts during the Chinese New Year celebrations. The recipe was my mother’s and I received overwhelming response. I also intend to bake chocolate cookies by the second half of the year or before Christmas. I don’t believe in selling too many varieties as it wouldn’t make any difference with other bakeries around. I’d like to be unique and focus on the best product and be consistent. Where can readers find your “Droolicious Chocolate Cakes”? We are located at Permas Jaya and it’s self-pick up although we are working out for deliveries. Orders may be placed via our facebook page – www.facebook. com/ohmycakes.my. Alternatively, you may contact me at 016-792 4999.
Recipe Molten Lava Chocolate Cake by Oh My Cakes Recipe: Ingredients: 100g Dark Couverture Chocolate 100g Butter 2 Whole Eggs 2 Egg Yolks 60g Castor Sugar 50g Plain Flour Preparation Method: Method – Stage 1: • Melt the chocolate and butter on top of Bain Marie and remove from heat when melted. • Beat the whole eggs, egg yolks and sugar until thick and pale. • Fold in the flour and then add the chocolate mixture. Mix gently. Stage 2: • Pour the mixture into ¾ greased moulds (depending on size).
• • •
Put it into the freezer and let it set until frozen. Take out the frozen mixture and turn on the oven at 190 degrees and bake for 10-12 minutes. Serve warm with vanilla ice-cream.
Tip: Do not overcook the cake, just bake it before serving and upon cutting, the chocolate should ooze out.
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The Iskandarian | WAVES Lifestyle
The Art of Solving Problems
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hat are Problems? Some people label it as troubles they want to avoid, and some consider it as headaches and heartaches. Most people try hard to run away from it but many are still caught in the same problems for years. Problems have always been identified as negative side of life. But is this true? Problems or life situations are one thing you cannot avoid in life. Ponder on this for a second; people who try to run away from the problems are the ones who have many problems in their life. Why is
that? Problems are part and parcel of life that helps evolve the mind and with it, we can create this world. By running away from problems is like running away from the mind. The question is; can you run away from your mind?
of solution and transmutation of energy, resulting in an accumulation of problems.
1. Don’t Label the Problem. Situations and problems are natural until the mind labels it either as positive or negative. To label will only create resistance towards the problem. Resistance stops situation from flowing in harmony. When things don’t flow, it will be far from the point
2. Perspective and Consciousness. You cannot solve the problems from the point you created it. Anger cannot solve a problem that is caused by anger. Fear cannot solve a problem that creates fear itself. Solutions emerge when you raise your consciousness. It helps to change your
Musix Buzz VERVE REMIXED: THE FIRST LADIES SET FOR RELEASE - FEATURING REMIXES FROM KASKADE, BASSNECTAR, TORO Y MOI, PRETTY LIGHTS, ZEDS DEAD and MORE
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By Rose Osman Personal Motivator & Energy Coach www.facebook.com/ yourpersonalmotivator Twitter:@BucketOfRoses
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perspective towards the problems. You can do this by seeing problems with your heart (consciousness) and not with your mind and emotions. Wise person sees wisdom in every problem. Learn and grab the wisdom life has to offer by not running away from situations you perceive as problem. This is where you evolve, heal and experience joy in every aspect of your life.
Musix Buzz
ulti-platinum Hollywood Records recording artist Selena Gomez revealed details from her upcoming Stars Dance album which is set for global release on July 23. The album cover will be set in a unique movie trailer style clip. The album track “Slow Down” will be received instantly and/or available for purchase a la carte on iTunes. Selena kicked off her Stars Dance album campaign with the single, “Come & Get It,” which is already platinum in the US and Canada. “Come & Get It” is already a top 10 hit at Top 40 radio, and has reached # 4 on the Billboard Hot 100 Singles chart. Selena has performed “Come & Get It” on a number of high profile television shows including the MTV Movie Awards, Dancing With the Stars, Ellen, The Late Show with David Letterman, The Billboard Awards and the Graham Norton Show. The video for “Come & Get It” already has over 40 million online views!
he groundbreaking Verve Remixed series is back with Verve Remixed: The First Ladies, set for release July 16th on Verve Records. The all female compilation features 13 classic jazz tracks remixed by some of today’s most acclaimed DJs and producers. Billboard has called Verve Remixed “one of the most successful brands in dance/electronic music” and is considered by many to be the best remixed series of all time. Verve Remixed, features tracks by legendary female artists including Ella Fitzgerald, Nina Simone, Billie Holiday, Sarah Vaughan The complete track listing for Selena Gomez’s Stars Dance is as follows: and Dinah Washington. Marlena Shaw, Astrud Gilberto and Sister 1. Birthday Rosetta Tharpe also have timeless songs included on the record. 2. Slow Down The original tracks have been remixed by 13 of the hottest 3. Stars Dance producers and DJs including Zeds Dead, the Toronto based dubstep 4. Like A Champion group, Kaskade, widely considered one of the most influential names 5. Come & Get It in modern electronic music, critically acclaimed indie artist Toro Y 6. Forget Forever Moi, electro hip-hop soul performer Pretty Lights and Bassnectar, one 7. Save The Day of the highest profile DJs in the U.S. 8. B.E.AT. The series has sold close to 1 million tracks worldwide, 9. Write Your Name resonating both with fans of the original recordings and with a new 10. Undercover untapped fanbase who are drawn to the producers showcased on the 11. Love Will Remember albums. Verve Remixed: The First Ladies Track Listing: 1. Ella Fitzgerald – Too Darn Hot (RAC MIX) 2. Astrud Gilberto – Fly Me To The Moon (KASKADE REMIX) 3. Sarah Vaughan – Please Mr. Brown (PONTUS WINNBERG OF MIIKE SNOW REMIX) 4. Nina Simone – Feeling Good (BASSNECTAR REMIX) 5. Marlena Shaw – Women of the Ghetto (FLUME’S JACKIN HOUSE MIX) 6. Nina Simone – Don’t Let Me Be Misunderstood (ZEDS DEAD REMIX) 7. Billie Holiday – My Man (TORO Y MOI REMIX) 8. Astrud Gilberto and Walter Wanderley Trio – So Nice (AZARI & III REMIX) 9. Sister Rosetta Tharpe – Jericho (C2C REMIX) 10. Nina Simone – Put A Spell On You (PRETTY LIGHTS REMIX) 11. Ella Fitzgerald – Blue Skies (MAYA JANE COLES REMIX) 12. Stan Getz & Joao Gilberto – Corcovado (TOKiMONSTA REMIX) Source: 13. Dinah Washington – I’ve Got You Under My Skin Universal Music Singapore (DJ CARNAGE AND VICTOR NIGLIO REMIX
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The Iskandarian | WAVES Lifestyle Calendar of Events
july 2013 Spore, 2nd- 6th July Singapore Youth Festival 2013 @ Esplanade and other venues
JB, 5th - 7th July 1st PC Expo 2013 @ Persada Johor
JB, 5th - 7th July JB Transformation 2 Open Day @ Galleria @Kotaraya
JB, 8th- 9th July Kick-start your Digital Media Campaign @ Menara MSC Cyberport
Spore, 1st - 8th July Home Design & Décor @ Singapore EXPO
9th July Ramadan Fast begins & Bazaar Ramadan (t.b.c)
Spore, 9th July The Addams Family: A New Musical Comedy @ Resort World, Sentosa, Singapore
JB, 10th-14th July KSL Home Expo 2013 @ KSL City
JB, 12th - 14th July Matta Johor Travel Fair 2013 @ Danga City Mall
Spore, 12th - 21st July Singapore Food Festival 2013 @ Marina Bay Sands
Spore, 19th - 21st July Food Bazaar 2013 @ Singapore Expo Convention and Exhibition Centre
JB, 20th July Nikon Club Ramadan Family Walkabout @ Bazaar Ramadan BBU
21st July Racial Harmony Day 2013
Spore, 31st - 28th July The Great Singapore Sale
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Must Visit Places in JB (Part One)
ohor Bahru or JB as it is fondly known to the locals is the Jewel of Southern Malaysia. Many visiting Malaysia often give this city a miss as they think there is nothing interesting to see . We are here to prove them wrong and have come up with a list of the most popular places that can be visited here. 1. Sultan Abu Bakar Royal Museum Located along the 1.3km west of the Causeway, it is one of the oldest buildings in Johor since it was built in 1864 as a Grand Palace. The architecture is a blend of Malay and English designs which was created by Datuk Yahaya Awaludin back then and the construction was completed in 1866. It was once an official venue for royal and state functions such as stately celebrations and royal ceremonies. After 11 May 1990, this original palace was opened to public to visit the Royal Museum. It was named as Sultan Abu Bakar Royal Museum and the opening ceremony was graced by His Royal Highness Sultan Iskandar. Now, it is known as the Royal Museum which houses most valuable Johor Royal family treasures and heirlooms. Publics can view the collections on any days except for Friday and the museum is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. (*Note: The museum is currently closed for renovations/restorations). 2. Sultan Ibrahim Building If you wander around JB city centre, you might see a huge greybricked colour building on a hilltop. Known to many as Bukit Timbalan, it is an administration building of the State of Johor. The architecture is influenced by eastern and western designs and it is a popular location for cultural events such as the JB Arts Festival, and a good spot for photography. This building was built in 1040’s and is one of JB’s important landmarks. You may visit here from Monday to Thursday between 8 a.m. to 12.45 p.m. or 2 p.m. to 5 p.m.; and on Friday between 9 a.m. to 12.15 p.m. and 2.45 p.m. to 5 p.m. However, it is closed on Saturdays, Sundays and public holidays.
Round. Each game is charged about RM4 to RM10. Most interesting activity here is visiting the Rumah Limas. There are eight traditional wooden Malay houses which represent 8 Johor districts. There is also special promotion for events to be held such as weddings or exhibitions. Closeby the amusement park is the Danga Bay Marina Club that houses a port, club and restaurants - a great place to unwind after work.
3. Danga Bay Located 7km northwest of the Causeway, it is a suitable place for family leisure. It has become a popular tourist attraction for foreigners and locals and is located near the Serene Palace. There are many outdoor activities available for families and young adults. On site, Danga Theme Park and Danga World Petting Zoo are the two places suitable for children and the whole family. Both these places are open from 3 p.m. to midnight every day. The entrance fee for adults is RM10 while RM5 for children. The children can also enjoy the animal show at 8.30 p.m. and 10.00 p.m. As for the Theme Park, it has interesting rides such as Zamperla pirate ship, bumper car, roller coaster, balloon Ferris wheel and Merry-Go-
Credits: Written By : By Zaki, Azwan & Nadia from JBCool.com Photography By : Nicholas Vincent
live Nemesis Baiting System (Part 2) FREE COPY ISSUE 11 | JUL 2013
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How Does the NEMESIS BAITING SYSTEM work?
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ur termite bait is particularly attractive to termites as they will feed on it in preference to the timber in your home. This means that, if active termites are located within your home, baiting can commence immediately. Using specially designed above ground feeding stations which are strategically placed over the termite workings, the workers will rapidly accept the bait, taking it back to the nest and sharing it with the queen, soldiers and other workers. The termites cannot sense that the bait is affecting their ability to grow and develop. The active ingredient; Chlorfluazuron, is not only a proven insect growth regulator but also stops termite colonies from being able to reproduce effectively. The colony subsequently declines in population and collapses. The effects of the Termite Bait are visible and can be tracked. The termites’ natural habits, food preferences and feeding behaviours are all used to its disadvantage.
Around your home Nemesis in ground stations are at
the forefront of the System, affording your home - ongoing protection from termite attack. These stations are placed strategically around the exterior of your home, either in soil, through concrete or under pavers where they become your first line of defence against possible termite attack.
Regular monitoring of these stations, at 8 to 12 week intervals, by a pest manager allows for early detection of foraging termites. When activity is detected at these stations, our Termite Bait is introduced into the upper void of the station where it is readily taken by the termites. Active stations are regularly
inspected, at approximately 3 week intervals, and our Termite Bait is replenished or refreshed as required in order to enable continued bait uptake by the termites. When the colony has been eliminated, the residual bait is removed and new timber inserts are installed and regular inspections are maintained thereafter.
work How to Manage the Stresses of Working In Business FREE COPY ISSUE 11 | JUL 2013
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tress and anxiety are very common when you work in business. As a result, here is a list of techniques that a business person can use to help manage their daily stresses and anxieties. Sometimes, we get stressed when everything happens all at once. When this happens, a person should take a deep breath and try to find something to do for a few minutes to get their mind off the problem. A person could take a walk, listen to some music, read the newspaper or do an activity that will give them a fresh perspective on things. When facing a current or
upcoming task at your job that overwhelms you with a lot of anxiety, divide the task into a series of smaller steps and then complete each of the smaller tasks one at a time. Completing these smaller tasks will make the stress more manageable and increases your chances of success. Challenge your negative thinking with positive statements and realistic thinking. When encountering thoughts that make you fearful or depressed, challenge those thoughts by asking yourself questions that will maintain objectivity and common sense. For example, you
are afraid that if you do not get that job promotion then you will be stuck at your job forever. This depresses you; however, your thinking in this situation is unrealistic. The fact is that there are all kinds of jobs available and just because you don’t get this job promotion doesn’t mean that you will never get one. Remember that no one can predict the future with one hundred percent certainty. Even if the thing that you feared does happen there are circumstances and factors that you can’t predict which can be used to your advantage. For instance, you are at your place of work and you
miss the deadline for a project you have been working on for the last few months. Everything you feared is coming true. Suddenly, your boss comes to your office and tells you that the deadline is extended and that he forgot to tell you the day before. This unknown factor changes everything. In dealing with your anxieties at your job, learn to take it one day at a time. While the consequences of a particular fear may seem real, there are usually other factors that cannot be anticipated and can affect the results of any situation. Get all of the facts
of the situation and use them to your advantage. The more control you have over your stresses and anxieties, the better off you will be in the long run.
By Dr. Saad Lee newsdesk@theiskandarian.com
the lack of low-cost housing and security are just some of the pressing issues the new chief minister and his team are expected to address. Johor Bahru city centre is the most urbanised district in Iskandar Malaysia and one of five flagship zones. Expectations are high there
as Johorians have just lived through the most hotly-contested elections in Malaysia’s history. Barisan Nasional won 38 state seats while the opposition Pakatan Rakyat alliance took 18 state seats. The results might augur well for Johorians who stand to gain the most.
Former Johor Menteri Besar Datuk Abdul Ghani Othman said the development projects in Iskandar Malaysia are expected to generate more than half a million jobs in the next five to eight years With the development of Iskandar Malaysia, an increase in job opportunities across the various clusters will see the need
for a reliable, steady workforce that will enhance and sustain this new economy. Such an endeavour will require the talents of the region’s best in the areas of planning, implementation, coordination, control, management, finance and promotion to ensure the success of Iskandar Malaysia.
Johorians stand to gain most
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skandar Malaysia has been hailed as a powerful catalyst for Johor’s economic growth, accounting for nearly 70 per cent of the state’s GDP. The need for skills upgrading, better job matching,
800,000 Workforce needed by 2015
Jobs: Government says that at least 800,000 manpower of skilled and semi skilled workforce will be needed by 2015
By Alan Wee newsdesk@theiskandarian.com
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he government says that at least 800,000 manpower of skilled and semi skilled workforce will be needed by 2015 With the fast paced growth of Iskandar Malaysia, availability of jobs
will not be based on academics alone as experienced workers with specific skills will not be left out. The task however is getting the cooperation of investors and stake holders setting up businesses here in Iskandar Malaysia to give priority to local Johorians in terms of employment opportunities.
Biography: Stan Popovich is the author of “A Layman’s Guide to Managing Fear Using Psychology, Christianity and Non Resistant Methods” - an easy to read book that presents a general overview of techniques that are effective in managing persistent fears and anxieties. For additional information go to: www.managingfear.com.
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invest
ACCUMULATING WEALTH? ¬ How to select Quality Dividend Stocks?
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ecently, the regional stock market has run out of steam following the collapse of Nikkei Index on 23 May. In addition to the hint from the US of winding back the QE3 (massive monetary stimulus) due to improved employment rate, the market is expected to fluctuate more during the coming months. Is this an opportunity or crisis? How would investors handle that? While experts always recommend counters with defensive nature; such as dividend stocks, let’s discuss how to select them by referring to the four qualities of good dividend stocks below:
1) Strong Cash Position This is the number one prerequisite if the company intends to pay regular dividends to hundreds or thousands of shareholders. How do we see if a company is in a strong cash position? Look at the Current Liabilities at the quarterly report. It’d be best if the company is in a Net Cash position. A company is in the Net Cash position if: Current Asset – Total Liabilities = “+” (positive). 2) Growth Drivers If you always receive dividends from a company, would you like to receive
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Tey Bin Yuen is the author of ‘Life beyond the Comfort Zone’. His books are available at major bookstores in Malaysia and Singapore. He’ll be conducting a seminar ‘Profit from Share Investmen4’ on 28 July 13. Reach him at btey2000@yahoo. com.au
the same amount as last year, or more? Of course more! But what enables the company to pay you more dividends? It is the company’s continual improved earning power, which comes from its growth drivers. Does it make sense? Growth drivers means factors that drive the growth of the company, such as increasing products or services, adding production lines or building new factories, new outlets, securing more contacts and so on. The company expands in different ways as a result of rising demand.
track record of paying regular dividends, visit Bursa website: www.bursamalaysia. com and look at the Company’s Announcement.
Again, you can check if the company has a Dividend Policy through its Chairman’s Statement in the annual report or company’s announcement.
3) Track Record of Paying Regular Dividends It means the company pays either yearly, half-yearly or quarterly dividends. Although the company might not have a Dividend Policy, it has the culture of paying regular dividend throughout years. To find out if the company has
4) The Company has a Dividend Policy A Dividend Policy is a policy the company sets to pay a certain percentage of its yearly income to its shareholders. A company with a dividend policy shows their commitment to share wealth with shareholders or to reward them for their support or loyalty.
Conclusion Accumulating good quality dividend stocks is not only a defensive strategy during market uncertain times; it’s a long term investment strategy that helps you gain sustainable wealth. Therefore, start researching on companies that pay regular or high dividends now.
CIMB has given 10 reasons why Iskandar Malaysia will succeed: 1. It was planned by Khazanah Nasional, which has some of the best brains in the country and has a personal interest in making it a success. 2. It has the buy-in of the top political leaders in the country as well as of their Singapore counterparts through the joint ministerial committee. 3. It is the natural hinterland to Singapore, where costs are far higher, and is within eight hours’ flight from key Asian countries, including China, India and the Middle East. 4. The political friendship between the two countries is probably at its highest point in many years with numerous outstanding issues of the past addressed. 5. The recently-completed catalyst projects that draw in big crowds - LEGOLAND and the Puteri Harbour Theme Park - make Iskandar Malaysia highly visible and exciting. 6. Other catalysts, including numerous education institutions, the Johor Premium Outlet and Pinewood Studios, have been completed or are nearing completion. 7. There are many more catalyst projects in the pipeline, including the MotorCity, China Mall, Ascendas industrial estate, Danga Bay, Desaru and Pengerang projects, which will keep Iskandar Malaysia’s momentum going. 8. Accessibility is being improved significantly through infrastructure projects, including new highways, LRT/MRT connectivity, ferry/MRT connection to Singapore and high-speed rail. 9. Hugely successful recent property launches by UEM Land, United Malayan Land, WCT and SP Setia have attracted the interest of other developers. 10. Many soft issues are being looked into, including safety (there is a Safety and Security Blueprint).
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Fine dining at Wan Li Restaurant
@Renaissance Hotel and we had two. Our first dessert was the trendy “Golden Custard Bun or Liu Sah Bao”. The soft bouncy bun was filled with a sweet and savoury filling made with pumpkin flesh and salted egg yolks. The second dessert was the “Chilled Mango Puree and Pamelo” served on top of a glass of dry ice. The dry ice gave the dessert a dramatic look and feel while keeping the sweet mango puree nicely cold and of course delicious. Restaurant name: Wan Li Restaurant (at Renaissance Hotel, Johor Bahru) Address: 2, Jalan Permas 11. Bandar Baru Permas Jaya, Masai, Johor Parking: Ample hotel covered parking Hours: Lunch/ Dinner Non Halal
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was recently invited to JB’s newest Chinese fine dining restaurant - Wan Li Restaurant at Renaissance Hotel, Johor Bahru and the place doesn’t disappoint. Wan Li is well appointed - the decor is contemporary, tasteful and has an understated kind of elegance. It is classy yet warm and welcoming. Executive Chef Foong and Ervina graciously accompanied us throughout our meal despite their busy schedules. Our first appetiser was the “Wan Li Foie Gras Xiao Long Bao”. This is set apart from ordinary xiao long baos with the additional touch of French inspired foie gras (savoury goose liver) added into the soupy meat filling. Executive Chef Foong who has worked in restaurants and hotels in Japan, UK, Australia, China, Indonesia and Singapore likes to innovate and create. These foie gras xiao long baos are served in elegant glass cups instead of the traditional baskets. The second appetiser was “Chef ’s Special Coffee Chicken”. The pieces of boneless chicken were marinaded in rich, robust bitter-sweet smooth white coffee. This is especially appealing for coffee lovers like me! I love the aroma of coffee entertaining my nose while my taste buds enjoy the tender savoury chicken. You may give this a try as it’s definitely an interesting
blend of flavours. Our next appetiser was extra special – “Wan Li’s Signature Durian King Prawns”. Deep fried, savoury succulent large king prawns coated with creamy sweet durian, topped with prawn roe. This unique dish is a Must Try! Once over with the lovely appetisers, we moved on to the mains and our first course was “Wan Li’s Roasted Crispy Mango Peking Duck”. I had tasted Wan Li’s roasted duck before and was looking forward to this with great anticipation. As Andy, Wan Li’s manager sliced the duck’s crispy skin you can literary hear the skin crackle and break. The crispy duck skin is then wrapped in a spring roll skin coupled with a stick of cucumber and mango, and drizzled with a bit of traditional condiments. I love Peking duck especially those with extra crispy skin and thick, moist juicy meat, and this dish did not fail. Next, we had “Cantonese Crispy Noodles with Assorted Seafood”. I like this common stir fried dish brought to the higher level by careful and skillful execution. The crispy noodles were not greasy, and were set on a bed of savoury sauce and garnished by pieces of squids, prawns and fish. Finally, no meals are complete without desserts
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A taste of Middle East in Johor Bahru
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ocated at 63&64, Jalan Pendidikan 4, Taman Universiti, Skudai, Parsia Restaurant is a hidden gem that serves tantalizing and mouth watering middle east cuisine delights. The owner, Mr Amin from Shiraz, Iran, has been in the restaurant business for over five years now and has brought his native middle eastern culinary enchantments to our shores for the locals to indulge. The restaurant mainly serves middle east food, Arabian dishes and Iranian Kebab. Being near to Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM), Amin’s initial targeted crowd was the odd 4000 international students studying there but from the warm response he has received from t h e locals, Amin is seeing locals as his primary patrons as well.
Among the cuisine highlights is their signature dish, the Parsia Mandi (lamb shank) made with Amin’s secret recipe with rich gravy which perfumed with herbs and spices. Equally notable is the Chicken Mandi and Lamb Mandi which is cooked with old Arabian style in a deep hall, over charcoal with special herbs and served with Sahawak & Soup, and the Kubideh Kebab which is minced lamb kebab skewered, barbecued and served with Barbeque tomato and Saffron Rice. Parsia Restaurant serves various types of Iranian and Arabian delicious salads and appetizers such as Tabbouleh, Shirazi Salad & Hummus and Mirza Ghasemi as appetizers. Berantin, an Iranian fizzy drink with fruity flavours of peach or pomegranate has been imported for the locals to give it a try. Most of the food stuff is grilled over a red hot charcoal to give the food an authentic taste and aroma. The restaurant itself is very spacious and decor is kept to distinctive Iranian flare and ambiance. On the whole, Parsia Restaurant gives all customers a fabulous taste of food with reasonable prices. The parking is ample and the friendly staff are a pleasant sight and definitely a restaurant which deserves repeated visits!
Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf have opened their 50th cafe at KSL Shopping Mall. Located right next to the main entrance, the outlet has been running promotions since their opening. Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf also provides catering services to office and home. Head down today to find out more!
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ISSUE 09 | MAY 2013
T HE I SKANDAR I AN
PROPERTY
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RESIDENTIAL PROJECTS
Cover Story
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APARTMENTS
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VILLAS
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About 130,000 foreigners own properties in Johor, how will the proposed property tax increment reflect on the market? >>page 27
CONDOMINIUMS
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OFFICE/ RETAILSPACE
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Mah Sing stays on track Property: Mah Sing Group Bhd is on track to achieve this year’s sales target of RM3 billion By Alan Wee newsdesk@theiskandarian.com
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aving delivered about RM750mil in sales for the first quarter of this year, Property developer Mah Sing Group Bhd is poised to achieve its RM3bil sales target for 2013. To date, the group has acquired four parcels of land with a combined gross development value (GDV) of RM7.78bil. Further acquisition of prime land is feasible based on the current low net gearing of 0.19 times and cashpile of some RM822mil as at March 31. The company has progressively launched new and existing projects, including Icon City, Petaling Jaya; M Residence@Rawang; The Loft@ Southbay City; The Meridin@ Medini; and Sutera Avenue, Kota Kinabalu. In regards to Bank Negara’s potential curb on the developer
interest-bearing scheme (DIBS), the group hopes that the regulators will consider industry feedback before any implementation of rules to do so but reserved further comment pending an official announcement. DIBS is a scheme where a property developer absorbs the home loan interest of the home buyers during the construction period of a property. Buyers reportedly only pay between 5% and 10% of the house price upon signing the sale and purchase agreement and only begin payment when the project is completed. Bank Negara is studying the risks arising from the developer interest-bearing scheme (DIBS) with a view of potentially imposing curbs on it, sources have said. Other sources think that the measures might be introduced in the second half of the year. DIBS has become a
popular easy financing package offered by property developers in joint-promotion activities with banks in recent years. Under the scheme, buyers need not fork out much initial down payment to buy properties, as the developer supposedly absorbs the initial interest. This is
until the buyer takes possession of the property. A high number of buyers enter this scheme with the intention of cashing out the property when they gain possession of it, making a profit without having to come up with much capital in the process.
DIBS is mainly offered to the high-rise residential segment. Some property consultants have opined that the presence of DIBS in the market has caused prices to be set on an artificially higher trajectory. Notably, the Singapore government banned DIBS in 2009.
Higher property tax for foreigners Property tax: The state government will impose higher tax rates for about 130,000 foreigners who own property in the state
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entri Besar Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin said the amount was still being discussed but the new rates would be imposed by the end of the year. Foreigners are now paying the same property tax rate as the locals in Johor. However, they are required to pay RM10,000 of additional tax upon the purchase of property. It is a measure implemented in the 1990s when Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim was still the Finance Minister. The amount of additional tax was initially set at RM100,000, causing a retrogression to the Johor estate market. The government then reduced the amount to RM10,000. About 130,000 foreigners own properties in Johor. Tax payers, however, do not have to worry about being burdened with higher taxes as there will be no increase in tax for lower priced properties. There could be an increase for those who owned high-end property that were priced in the millions. The state had no intention of increasing the financial burden of the people but also needed to increase the
returns to ensure that the local councils can provide better facilities and services for the locals. Sources in Singapore say that the plans to raise taxes on properties owned by foreigners in Johor are not likely to affect demand from Singaporean investors. Analyst said that is because current tax levels are relatively low, and property tax makes up a very small component of a home owner’s total cost. Despite higher taxes, analysts said properties in Johor will remain a choice investment for Singaporeans. Iskandar Regional Development Authority (IRDA) said it is working with the state government to provide market feedback about the proposed tax increase and is seeking assurance that it will not burden both local and foreign property owners or dampen the market. For the first quarter of 2013, Iskandar Malaysia registered cumulative committed investments of RM111.37 billion from 2006 until 31 March 2013, which is an increase of RM5.06 billion since the end of December 2012. Of the total cumulative
committed investments, RM44.82 billion, or 40.2 per cent, represents investments that have been realised. All property owners in Johor have to pay two types of taxes: • Cukai Harta (Property Tax), paid once every year to the state of Johor; • Cukai Taksiran (Quit rent / Assessment tax / Cukai Tanah), paid in advance 6 monthly to the local authority; The Quit rent (Cukai Taksiran) is based on the rental value of a property. The local authority has a list of rental
values which it updates at least every 5 years and the tax is 6% of this value. Property Tax (Cukai Harta) on the other hand is being levied as a percentage of the property value (in Johor 0.14% for residential houses). The property value is being determined by a special department within the administration and the last valuation of properties had been done in the 1980s according to the Mentri Besar. This means currently the basis of the property tax are house values from 30 years ago which does not translate to today’s housing standards and current market rate.
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The Iskandarian
Quick Reads
Ghani for Sime Darby
Former Johor Menteri Besar, Datuk Ghani Othman has been tipped to become the new chairman of Sime Darby, taking over from another Johorian and former deputy PM Musa Hitam. Ghani is believed to be able to steer the conglomerate as how he had managed Iskandar. His appointment as chairman will take effect from July 1, taking over from interim chairman Tan Sri Samsudin Osman. Sime Darby said on Monday he was also appointed as an independent and non-executive director. Following his appointment as an independent director, the board of Sime Darby will comprise of 13 directors with five independent directors. Ghani was deputy energy, telecommunication and post minister (May 1987-November 1990), deputy finance minister (November 1990-November 1993), youth and sports minister (December 1993-March 1995) and Johor’s Menteri Besar (March 1995-May 2013).
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Property Investment ¬ How to Invest in Medini, Nusajaya
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s a Singapore-based Iskandar property investment advisor, June this year will be remembered as a pivotal month for Iskandar Malaysia’s ascendancy. Activities have picked up from the pre-election developers’ moratorium to an instant frenzy, for instance; there is one new Medini condominium launch in Singapore every fortnight. Glitzy names filled the headlines such as Meridin, Iskandar Residences and market leader, and Afiniti Residences, by KhazanahTemasek. The Afiniti’s blockbuster ballot sale made history when being simultaneously featured in both Malaysia’s and Singapore’s
mainstream press and television primetime news. Of course, it broke the price record for Medini, reaching RM 1000 psf! However, many potential investors are merely following herd instincts with little real knowledge of Nusajaya. The name Iskandar has been so bandied about, that I doubt few investors know much about its geography, economy and history. Investors should spend time appreciating the Nusajaya’s master plans away from sales seminars which over generalise results and omit key information. They should network directly with developers, authorities and master developers. Indeed,
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Ed Cheong is the founder of Rafflesland Capital, a Singaporebased Iskandar specialist and consultancy offering institutional-class property investment education for clients in Asia. He can be reached at iskandar@rafflesland. com/ tel +65 97111271
spending time to appreciate the different regions of Medini Iskandar and its surrounding economic drivers will be crucial for sustainable investments. Let me highlight two key clusters within Medini North which should be the starting point for investments. The areas nearest to Legoland Malaysia, Mall of Medini and Gleaneagles Medini are the first critical cluster. Next is the stretch leading to Lebuh Kota Iskandar. It starts from Meridin down to 1Medini, Medini Signature, Iskandar Residences and beyond. This is the equivalent of Orchard Road in Singapore where shopping, business and leisure activities converge. These two areas
define the Medini Lifestyle living area. Lastly, investors should differentiate different locations’ views, developer’s track record, land title types (residential or commercial), GFA densities, vision and architectural merits. The list of checks are long. For more on how to invest in Medini and Nusajaya, join us on 3rd August 2013 in the joint Malaysia Properties Inc and Rafflesland Capital Seminar in Singapore. We have a comprehensive panel of advisors and stakeholders to answer all your investment questions. Email iskandarmal@gmail.com or call +65 97111 271 for more details.
Senai – Skudai Development Focus on Flagships: With Iskandar Malaysia surging forward, the Senai – Skudai development area under Flagship E is seeing major transformation in terms of business and architecture
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lagship E which is the SenaiSkudai development is located within the northern region of Iskandar Malaysia. It is bound by Mukim Sedenak to the north; Gunung Pulai to the west; Mukim Tebrau to the south; and Seelong to the east. Apart from Senai International Airport, it is also the base for several major multinational electronics manufacturers. Other key landmarks in the Senai-Skudai area include Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) and Johor Technology Park. The name Senai is derived from a local tree, ‘Sinai’, which thrived in the region in the early 20th century. Malays, Chinese and Tamil Indians are the main ethnic groups. The majority of the Chinese in Senai belong to the Hakka dialect group. Senai is a transit town situated 25 km from Johor Bahru, Malaysia. Flagship E covers 2 small towns in Iskandar Malaysia, namely Senai and Skudai. Skudai is a rapidly expanding suburb of Johor Bahru. Skudai is part of the new growth corridor of south-
west Johor. Senai is located 4 km south from Kulai, and 4 km north of Skudai. Expressway E3 links Senai Airport with Tuas in Singapore at the other end. In addition, as highlighted in the Comprehensive Development Plan (CDP), there will be about 5,493 hectares of Industrial land available for investment purposes by 2025 in Flagship E: • Kempas Industrial Area: 608.86ha • Senai Industrial Area: 3,781.54 ha • Kulai Industrial Area: 1,102.15 ha Three cyber cities will also be proposed in Iskandar Malaysia as part of the MSC Phase 2 (2004 - 2010), namely Nusajaya, Johor Bahru Central Planning Area and the Universiti Teknologi Malaysia SkudaiIndahpura area. In this second roll-out, the MSC Cybercity/Cybercentre status goes beyond the original designated
areas in order to spread the MSC benefits nationwide and to enhance national and regional growth and competitiveness, as well as to bridge all forms of digital divide in the country. In comparison to other areas,
Flagship E represents a total of 15.84% (Skudai 9.52% and Senai-Kulai 6.32%) of total manufacturing activities in Iskandar Malaysia. Most of these manufacturing activities in Flagship E are located at Johor Technology Park, Senai Industrial Park/Estate and Berjaya Industrial Estate. Many key players are attributed to the development of this flagship and KCC Development’s The Senai Garden is among the property bigwigs promoting lifestyle serviced apartments. Flagship E is still undergoing major developments and the results will be more visible over the years to come.