EP 2 FRIDAY AUGUST 24, 2018 • THEEDGE FINANCIAL DAILY

Celebrating a new Malaysia

alaysia’s coming 61st Na- EdgeProp.my pullout tional Day promises to be will be taking a break like no other. No splurge next Friday Aug 31. on pomp and pageantry syabas The Edge Property Sdn Bhd is on the cards — . Go to www.EdgeProp.my (1091814-P) Coincidentally, August for your property news ˎ x. Level 3, Menara KLK, 2018 marks the completion of Pakatan Hara- No 1 Jalan PJU 7/6, Mutiara M Damansara, 47810 Petaling Jaya, pan’s fi rst 100 days in government. Selangor, Malaysia Don’t expect debate on the so-called ‘re- port card’ of the government’s performance EdgeProp.my to go off the air soon, not when the new Managing Director/Editor-in-chief Malaysia encapsulates freedom of speech Au Foong Yee and transparency. Like any other country, Ultimately, it is all about stamping out Malaysia is a work-in-progress. corruption, the upkeep of good values, and EDITORIAL Executive Editor Sharon Kam Indeed, progress is the way forward. a sincerity to serve. Th e days ahead will de- Editor Lam Jian Wyn Th e reality is, that while it is of paramount mand for grit, determination, and hard work Deputy Chief Copy Editor importance to keep the fires burning for from the Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad-led James Chong Copy Editor Vanessa Gnanasurian change, or for the better, being unrealistic Pakatan Harapan. Senior Writers and impatient is of no help. An unwavering political will to put right Rachel Chew, Tan Ai Leng In this week’s issue, EdgeProp.my com- the wrongs, alongside the government’s Writers Natalie Khoo, Shawn Ng piles a report card on Pakatan Harapan’s constant and continued engagement with Art Director Sharon Khoh very early and short quarter towards solving all stakeholders will, most certainly, endear Au Foong Yee Design Team Malaysians’ housing woes. Malaysians to “Sayangi Malaysiaku”. EdgeProp.my Jun Kit, Rajita Sivan It is not perfect, far from it. But it is a good Have a Happy National Day, while you managing director For New Launches/Events/ start, no doubt. enjoy reading this special edition. and editor-in-chief Press Releases/News Tips email: [email protected] Tel: (03) 7721 8211 Fax: (03) 7721 8280

ADVERTISING & MARKETING trending How do I get past issues of this weekly pullout? Associate Account Director, Go to www.EdgeProp.my to download for free Advertising & Marketing now Heidee Ahmad (019) 388 1880 Senior Account Manager Ian Leong (012) 359 1668 Account Managers Joane Tan (012) 377 2885 If you have any real estate-related events, email us at [email protected]. Joyceline Chan (012) 693 5826 LAUNCHES + EVENTS Events listed here will also appear on www.EdgeProp.my. Evelyn Chan (012) 383 7484

Marketing Support & Ad Trafˎ c Property Inheritance with IJM Land will host a day of green Ayer Holdings invites all for the Madeline Tan (03) 7721 8218 Wills & Trusts Seminar email: [email protected] activities to promote the 3Rs of fi nal run with Coach Karen Siah, Date: Aug 25 (Sat) Reduce, Reuse and Recycle at before closing its Running Clinic BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT Time: 2pm to 5pm its 1,879-acre green township series until 2019. Besides the run, Manager Nimalen Parimalam Account Manager Stannly Tan Venue: Yong Tai Sales Bandar Rimbayu. There’s there will be a Zumba Dancing Gallery, Oasis Damansara, something for everyone in the Fun session with Siah and cool PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT Petaling Jaya, Selangor family. You can take part in a down yoga with Sue Kay. Free & CUSTOMER ADVISORY Senior Manager Elizabeth Lay Contact: (017) 871 6880 (SMS only) hands-on recycling workshop, popcorn and ice cream are Associate Omar Nawawi Yong Tai Bhd is organising a enjoy environmental exhibits available throughout the event. seminar on wills and trusts, and shop at car boot sales. For enquiries and listings email: [email protected] conducted by legal practitioner Tel: (03) 7721 8174 / 8173 Darren Liew. This event is open Blood Donation and to all and admission is free. Health Awareness day Merdeka Kids Fun Fest EdgeProp.my pullout is published by The Edge Property Sdn Bhd. It is Refreshments will be served. Date: Aug 26 (Sun) Date: Aug 26 (Sun) available with The Edge Financial Time: 11am to 4pm Time: 10am to 5pm Daily every Friday. The pullout Smarter Technology Venue: The ERA Sales Gallery, Venue: Gravit8 Sales Gallery, is also distributed at more than for Airbnb talk 200 ofˎ ces, shopping complexes, Jalan Segambut, KL. Jalan Bayu Laut/KS 9, Kota condos, medical centres, F&B outlets Date: Aug 25 (Sat) Contact: 1700 8180 81 Bayuemas, Pendamar, Klang. and LRT stations in the Klang Valley. Time: 1pm to 6pm JKG Land invites all to attend Contact: (016) 623 7301 Houseowner You can also download it for free at Rewards Day www.EdgeProp.my Venue: The Shore Sales Gallery, health talks by Dr Shibing Soo. Mitraland Group invites families CBD Kota Kinabalu, Sabah She will be speaking about ways with young kids to take part in Date: Aug 26 (Sun) Contact: (088) 258 708 to prevent diabetes and cervical the full day programme. Come Time: 10am to 6pm Th e Edge Malaysia Titijaya Land Bhd invites all cancer. There will also be free and fi nd out the congenital links Venue: Nada Alam Sales Gallery, Publisher and Group CEO to gain some knowledge from blood glucose and blood pressure between your kids’ fi ngerprints Kampung Baru Sungai Mahang, Ho Kay Tat Airbnb entrepreneur Ting Yi tests for the fi rst 100 participants. and their intrinsic qualities Mantin, Negeri Sembilan

EDITORIAL Hang and smart lock specialist and talents. You can also Contact: (06) 799 7228 Editor-in-chief Azam Aris Tan Chun Sian about smarter enjoy family-friendly activities As a gesture of appreciation CORPORATE technology for Airbnb homes. such as a balloon twisting for homeowners, Seri Pajam Chief Operating Ofˎ cer The English-language session workshop, a terrarium workshop, Development is hosting a Lim Shiew Yuin ADVERTISING & MARKETING will begin at 1pm while the sand art, and many more. Houseowner Rewards Day. Chief Commercial Ofˎ cer Chinese session starts at 4pm. Guests stand a chance to get Sharon Teh (012) 313 9056 Bukit Puchong Running rewards of up to RM6,000 General Manager Reduce, Reuse and Recycle Clinic: Power Run Kingston Low (012) 278 5540 by introducing Seri Pajam Senior Sales Managers at Bandar Rimbayu Date: Aug 26 (Sun) projects to friends and family. Fong Lai Kuan (012) 386 2831 Date: Aug 26 (Sun) Time: 6:30am to 9:30am There will be a mystery gift Gregory Thu (012) 376 0614 Time: 10am to 4pm Venue: Bukit Puchong Gallery, for the fi rst 50 homeowners Creative Marketing Chris Wong (016) 687 6577 Venue: Bandar Rimbayu, Telok Jalan BP 7/15, Bandar Bukit who bring friends and family Head of Marketing Support Panglima Garang, Selangor Puchong, Puchong, Selangor along to the event. Light & Ad Trafˎ c Contact: 1800 22 8686 Contact: 1 300 88 3888 refreshments will be served. Lorraine Chan (03) 7721 8001

EP 4 FRIDAY AUGUST 24, 2018 • THEEDGE FINANCIAL DAILY FRI

of unsold completed residential aff To build one million units in the country. as 1 affordable homes sy within two terms of AUUG 14 – BNM is expected to government How far has the roll out a special housing loan JU scheme tailored for the low- JUUNNE 5 – Th e Housing and Local to middle-income group with Government Ministry (KPKT) regard to fi rst-homeownership announced its proposal to re- new government by September, said the Finance develop the site of the High- Ministry. land Towers condominium in Ampang, Selangor. Tentatively, caught up on its the plan is for a mixed devel- Building more opment comprising aff ordable 8 comfortable and housing, high-end housing, re- spacious homes for tail, recreational and commer- the B40 group 1 cial components. manifesto? a t AUUG 1 – KPKT has proposed to to JUUNNE 21 – KPKT Minister Zuraida have larger living quarters for Kamaruddin said it will review the B40 group who are staying in MA the National Housing Policy People’s Housing Project (PPR) (NHP) to ensure it caters to the The Pakatan Harapan (PH) coalition had marched into fl ats. Under the proposal, the current needs of the people. Th e the 14th General Election with a clearly delineated manifesto layout design for the living quar- minister also suggested forming which promises to revamp the system, wipe out corruption, ters will be increased to at least a National Aff ordable Housing 900 sq ft from the existing 650 sq Council (NAHC) that synchro- revive the economy and lower the cost of living, among others. ft to 700 sq ft. nises all public aff ordable hous- Naturally, since the dramatic victory on May 9, expectations ing schemes under one roof to AUUG 8 – KPKT will redevelop Lem- enable the ministry to come have been running high, and in response, there has been a bah Subang 1 PPR to provide up with a guideline on pricing, ː urry of announcements from the new government to show more comfortable homes for the 1 design and distribution of the residents next year. Th e ministry in schemes. its seriousness in fulˎ lling its pledges. has formed a committee headed co by Lembah Jaya state assembly- JUUNNE 27 – The Highland Tow- man Haniza Mohamed Talha MA ers Redevelopment Committee Focusing on the housing and property sector, EdgeProp.my to oversee the redevelopment. headed by KPKT secretary-gen- has listed 20 items under the PH manifesto as well as eral Datuk Mohammad Mentek held its fi rst meeting to study the a few other pertinent issues and tracked some of the Create more public redevelopment plan. Th e com- announcements and statements that have been made 9 spaces and parks mittee comprises experts and by the relevant ministers up till Aug 20. to facilitate community representatives from 10 major activities stakeholders including federal, state and local authorities. AUUG 1 – Federal Territories Min- ister Khalid Samad said the AUUG 11 – KPKT said it would in- new lending guidelines by the homes for Malaysians — particu- Council (NAHC) that River of Life project which has troduce a new NHP sometime end of the month and will seek larly those in the B40 bracket. will bring together the started its work since 2011 with JU at the end of September that its advice on a suitable housing functions of various the objective of reviving and will benefi t the lower-income price range for B40 and M40 JUULLY 6 – KPKT said it would in- agencies under one roof improving the quality of riv- groups in Malaysia. buyers. itiate an investigation into the er water should be completed business activities, dealings and MAAY 28 – Zuraida said the minis- by 2020. He stressed that the AUUG 13 – Zuraida said each of the performance of PR1MA as it had try will propose to the Cabinet water quality should be clean 13 states in the country will get Work with state failed to meet its targets despite to set up the NAHC to eff ective- enough for people to wash their an average of 10,000 to 15,000 3 governments all the assistance given by the ly handle all matters related to clothes in. low-cost houses a year if the PH to convert land for government. aff ordable housing. government managed to meet affordable housing AUUG 4 – Khalid met up with Taman the annual target of building projects JUULLY 20 – Zuraida announced that JUUNNE 13 – KPKT has prepared the Tun Dr Ismail (TTDI) Residents’ 100,000 houses per year for 10 all public housing projects in- Cabinet paper on the proposed Association representatives to 1 years. JUULLY 21 – KPKT urged state gov- cluding PR1MA, PPA1M, Federal establishment of the NAHC and understand their concerns re ernments to support the con- Territory Aff ordable Homes (RU- expects the council to begin over the on-going development a R AUUG 19 – Zuraida revealed that the struction of aff ordable homes MAWIP) and aff ordable housing work by August, said Zuraida. which is taking place on part of qu Highland Towers redevelopment by providing lands to build the schemes by Syarikat Perumahan Taman Rimba Kiara in TTDI. He committee discovered that the properties as this could reduce Negara Bhd (SPNB) will come AUUG 17 – Zuraida said the NHP stressed that the development JU site is not suitable for housing the cost for aff ordable homes. under KPKT in August. and the set-up of the NAHC are project will not be allowed if it development. Th us, the land will in the fi nal stages and will be un- encroaches on the green lung. be used to develop a recreational AUUG 13 – Zuraida announced that veiled by the end of September. park for the public. several plots of land in Kota To increase AUUG 9 – Khalid said the high-end Kinabalu, Sabah, have been 5 bumiputera luxury condominium project at proposed for the construction homeownership Ease the housing loan Taman Rimba Kiara in TTDI, To create a special of low-cost housing. She also through incentives while 7 application process for KL, can be scrapped if KL City 2 housing loan scheme urged the Sabah state govern- simplifying the process to the B40 and M40 groups Hall (DBKL) is willing to fork out for ˎ rst-time homebuyers ment to provide land to develop build affordable homes RM110 million as compensation 1 low-cost houses. on land owned by state JUUNNE 21 – Zuraida said the minis- to the developer. He said the to JUULLY 3 – KPKT said it has met with Islamic authorities try will discuss with the Finance ministry will continue to look co various agencies including Bank Ministry and BNM on ways to for possible solutions. mo Negara Malaysia (BNM), fi nan- Reform the 1Malaysia JUULLY 15 – KPKT said it would re- ensure that more low- and cial institutions, the Employees 4 People’s Housing view loan applications for af- mid-income earners can aff ord AUUG 19 – Zuraida revealed that MA Provident Fund (EPF) and the Programme (PR1MA) fordable homes by bumiput- to own a home. Th e ministry will the ministry plans to redevelop Ministry of Finance (MoF) to programme to prevent era homebuyers whose housing also encourage fi nancial institu- the site of the Highland Towers discuss the issue of unsold com- cronyism and to be more loan applications have been re- tions to consider in their home condominium into a recreation- pleted property. It said BNM transparent jected by fi nancial institutions. loan application assessment, al public park is working on a new housing Th e ministry would also meet up the second or third income of loan package to ease qualifying JUUNNE 13 – Zuraida said PR1MA with the EPF and other fi nancial the B40 and M40 groups. requirements, particularly for will be rebranded and detached institutions to fi nd a solution. Tax incentives fi rst-time homebuyers. from any political agenda as out- JUULLY 3 – KPKT said it was working 10 for companies lined by the former government, with BNM to ease housing loan that use the latest 1 AUUG 17 – Zuraida said KPKT will while its focus would be tweaked Set up a National requirements for homebuyers, technologies to reduce wi follow up with BNM to release towards delivering aff ordable 6 Affordable Housing in a bid to reduce the number the cost of building inc FRIDAY AUGUST 24, 2018 • THEEDGE FINANCIAL DAILY EP 5

tial affordable homes such as industrialised building Study ways to system (IBS) 18 efˎ ciently compile to and update housing oan JUULLY 13 – Zuraida said KPKT was market data w- studying Singapore’s public ith housing policies and exploring JUULLY 25 – KPKT said it was work- hip the idea of introducing HDB- ing with the National Property nce type fl ats in Malaysia. She said Information Centre (Napic) to KPKT might consider adopting streamline housing data by in- IBS for all PPR projects to bring troducing a data input system down the cost. for developers by the beginning of 2019.

Prevent land AUUG 10 – KPKT Deputy Minister 11 hoarding by setting Datuk Raja Kamarul Bahrin Shah a time limit for companies stressed the importance of hav- to to develop their land ing a central database on home- for ownership and distribution for g in MAAY 10 – Th e PH government said aff ordable homes. PR) it will set a time limit for com- the panies to hold land for develop- ar- ment. Th e government opined Recruit and ast that land hoarding is one of the 19 provide training to sq reasons that is pushing up hous- local youths to become ing prices. property managers

m- JUUNNE 1 – During an exclusive inter- ide Expand rent-to- view with EdgeProp.my, Zuraida the 12 own (RTO) schemes suggested creating work oppor- try in cooperation with tunities for young graduates who ded commercial banks are interested to venture into the bly- EdgeProp.my property management industry, lha MAAY 22 – KPKT proposed the set- by providing them with training nt. ting up of the NAHC which will to become building managers combine the functions of vari- for PPRs. ous agencies under one roof. Th e council will be tasked with overseeing aff ordable home con- Take over struction matters, coordinating a A National Affordable Housing Council that oversees all public affordable 20 maintenance unifi ed and open data on unsold housing schemes including PPR and PR1MA projects will be set up of low-cost housing aff ordable homes and organise projects ALL PICTURES BY LOW YEN YEING ALL PICTURES BY LOW | in- a RTO scheme for the B40 and he M40 groups. JUUNNE 1 – In the exclusive inter- has communities to listen PPA1M residents in Bukit Jalil after view with EdgeProp.my, Zuraida ith JUUNNE 21 – Penang Chief Minister and get their feedback Zuraida visited the project site. Improve has proposed to place the gov- nd Chow Kon Yeow said a number on issues 17 transparency ernment’s PPR management iv- of low-cost projects in the pipe- AUUG 4 – Khalid met Taman Tun in the government under the local authorities as a ted line will adopt the RTO concept. JUUNNE 21 – Zuraida said she would Dr Ismail Residents’ Association procurement and majority of its residents would the Approval was given by KPKT to review the NHP with the Finance representatives to understand project tender process not have the capacity to main- an convert two completed projects Ministry, BNM and developers their concerns over the proposed tain the buildings. heir in Seberang Jaya to RTO hous- besides obtaining feedback from development project on parts JUULLY 7 – Works Minister Baru ing schemes. buyers. of Taman Rimba Kiara’s land. Bian said the government will JUUNNE 5 – KPKT said it has started use the open tender system working on the draft of the NCP man JUULLY 9 – Zuraida said she has met AUUG 14 – Zuraida had a dialogue extensively and with transpar- which aims to upgrade the over- nts’ Enable those up with Khazanah Institute (KRI) session with Sarawak Housing ency for government projects, all living environment of low- to 13 who are currently and the Public Works Depart- and Real Estate Developers’ especially for large scale ones cost housing schemes and to rns renting to migrate to ment (JKR) to discuss public Association. After the meeting, to ensure public funds are well encourage community empow- ent a RTO scheme if they housing issues. she said a common policy on spent. erment. Th e main stakeholders t of qualify housing requirements must be involved in the policy-making He JUULLY 16 – KPKT organised a two- formulated between the federal JUULLY 29 – Baru said he would ad- process include developers, lo- ent JUULLY 22 – Zuraida highlighted the day focus group discussion to and state governments. vocate open tenders extensively cal authorities, police, residents’ if it possibility of a RTO scheme for gather experts’ and stakehold- because they are competitive associations and the local com- ng. the B40 group, who may prefer ers’ feedback on the draft of and fair commercially while munity. to rent for the fi rst two to three the National Community Pol- Gazette the Kuala the Works Ministry would work nd years before making a commit- icy (NCP). 16 Lumpur City Plan closely with other ministries JUULLY 16 – KPKT organised a two- t at ment to buy. and draft new city plans and agencies to ensure that day focus group discussion to DI, JUULLY 20 – Khalid called for a coun- (or new transportation or due process and procedures gather experts’ and stakehold- City cil meeting with KL Mayor Tan town plans) are carried out throughout the ers’ feedback on the draft for out Incentives to Sri Mohd Amin Nordin Abdul procurement and technical as- the NCP. ion 14 small developers Aziz, senior management of JUULLY 19 – FT Minister said the KL sessments. the to help increase their DBKL and 11 MPs in KL to dis- City Plan 2020 will be gazetted JUULLY 23 – Penang State Housing, ook competitiveness for a cuss major issues that need to by year-end. Th e 11 KL MPs met AUUG 6 – Khalid stressed that the Local Government, Town and more level playing ˎ eld be resolved. Th e council meeting KL Mayor to form a consultative ministry will continue to build Country Planning Committee will be held at least once every council. RUMAWIP projects via the open chairman Jagdeep Singh Deo hat MAAY 10 – Th e PH government said two months. tender process. said the 1Malaysia Mainte- lop it will consider giving incentives JUULLY 20 – Khalid chaired the nance Fund (TP1M), launched ers to smaller developers to com- JUULLY 29 – Save Kuala Lumpur council meeting attended by AUUG 18 – Khalid said a special task three years ago, would be re- on- pete with the big companies (SKL) coalition met up with KL mayor, DBKL’s senior offi cers force report on the 64 parcels branded and continue to be that hoard the prime plots, for Khalid who said he will direct and all 11 KL MPs to discuss and of land that were dubiously managed by the current federal a more level playing fi eld. DBKL to engage with SKL before seek solutions to issues in the transacted by DBKL has been government. submitting the Draft KL City Plan city. Khalid said the FT Minis- submitted to Prime Minister 2020 for gazette. try will start working on the KL Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamed for AUUG 6 – Khalid said the ministry is Have consultation City Plan for the period 2020 to review. Th e recommendations taking steps to comprehensively 15 and engagements JUULLY 29 – KPKT has established 2040 from early next year and it include cancelling deals or re- maintain and upgrade the eleva- with stakeholders an independent committee to will be drafted by end-2019 and negotiateing better terms and tors in public housing including including local study the complaints raised by gazetted by 2020. conditions. PPR projects in the city. EP 6 FRIDAY AUGUST 24, 2018 • THEEDGE FINANCIAL DAILY

Report Card — Th e fi rst 100 days Name: Pakatan Harapan government

NO.O HOUOUSING ANDN PROPERTY SUBJECTS SCORE STARS

1 ToT build onone million affordr abblel homomes witi hiin two terms ofo theh goverernmn ent 1.23

2 To creeata e a speccial hoh ussing loan scheme for fi rst-time homebuyers 2.08

3 Workk with stata e gog vev rnr mentnts tot coonverrt lal nd statuus for afffforddabblee houusiing proojeects 1.62

4 ReR formr thee PR11MAMA programme to prevent cronyism and be more transparent 2.39

5 ToT incncrereasa e bumim putet ra homeoe wnw ershhipp thrh ouough inccentiives whhile simpm lil fyinng the processs 1.85 too buiildl aff orrdablb e hoh mem s ono lannd owwnen d byb stat tee Islamic authoritit es

6 SeS t up a National Aff ordable Housing Council that will bring together the fuf nctions 3.00 ofo various ageg ncies under one roof

7 Eaasese theh houo sing loan applp icatioon prroco esss forr the B40 and M404 gror ups 2.31

8 Buuilding more comffortable and spacious homes for the B40 group 1.85

9 Creae te more space and puublb ic para ks too faca ili ittatte coommmunu itty aca tiviv ties 1.92

101 Tax innceentives too companin ess that use the latest technologies to reduce the cost of building 1.92 affordabble homo es such as the use of inndustrialised building system (IBS)

111 Prrevennt landnd hoao rdinng by sete ting a timme lilimiit fof r companniei s to devvele opp theh ir land 1.39

121 Expaandn reent-to-own scs heemes natiionallyy in cooperation with commercial banks 2.31

131 Enaba lee those whoho aree curreenttlyy rentiing to miigrratte tot a reent-t tot -ownn schheme e 1.85 iif thehey quuala iffy

144 Incentn ivves to sms all developeers to help increase their competitiveness for a more level 1.69 plp ayinng fi eld

155 HaH ve coconsulltationn andd enggaggeme ene t witht stakek holdderers incluludid ngg loco al communities to 2.85 lilists en and gett their feedbacack ono issues

16 GaG zette the Kuala Luumpurr City Plann ana d draft new city plans (or new transportation or 2.544 townw plaans)

177 Immprp ovo e trrana sparene cy in ththe gogovev rnnmem nt pror curer meent andn pror jectc tene ded r prp occese s 2.39

18 StS udy waysy to effi cic ene tlly coompm ili e and upu dad tet housinng markr et data 2.15

1919 ReR cruiit ana d prp ovvidi e trraininingng to locac l yoyoutuths to become prpropoperertyy managgers 1.23

20 Taake over mainntet nance ofo lowo -coso t housu inng prp ojjeccts 1.69

Overall 2.00

A total of 13 respondents from 12 organisations rated SCORE RATING 3 Satisfactory the subjects and the weighted average of their scores 1 Too preliminary to tell 4 Met expectations was used in the report card. 2 Progressing albeit slowly 5 Exceeded expectations FRIDAY AUGUST 24, 2018 • THEEDGE FINANCIAL DAILY EP 7

BY TAN AI LENG We also sought their thoughts on the right things that the government alaysia’s 61st Nation- has done so far, the issues it has over- al Day celebrations looked and suggestions for improve- hold new meaning ment going forward. for our country and its people after the Ace for enthusiasm historic change in Overall, most “subjects” (promises/ Mgovernment following the 14th Gen- issues) received weighted averages of eral Election on May 9. Th e rakyat is between 1 to 3 with the bulk of them celebrating with fresh fervour and re- getting 1 and 2 indicating that it is too newed hope and the burden of turning SoMANAN VATSYAYANA / AFP far, early to make a fair appraisal of the new that hope into reality lies largely on government’s performance in such a the shoulders of the new government. short time or that there has been pro- The moment the new Malaysian gress albeit at snail’s pace. government was formed in the days Nevertheless, the respondents said after Pakatan Harapan (PH) won the they were generally impressed with the election, every move of those in govern- diligence and enthusiasm shown by ment especially the cabinet ministers the relevant ministers in carrying out led by Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir their duties and their eff orts towards Mohamad has been scrutinised by the fulfi lling the promises made. people who had voted them in with Most respondents said the new gov- high hopes that the mandate given ernment, particularly the Housing and would be fulfi lled. Local Government Ministry is mov- Th e new government has just passed ing in the right direction in its eff orts its fi rst 100 days which coincides with to help more Malaysians own homes ongoing National Day celebrations based on recent announcements on which will culminate on Aug 31. plans to ease lending and to set up a And while the nation celebrates, it centralised aff ordable housing council also needs to take stock and keep the to eff ectively oversee aff ordable hous- new government on its toes. How has ing development. the government fared in its fi rst 100 Th e respondents admitted that hous- days? How can it move forward to re- ing and development concerns are alise the hopes of the people? complicated issues that will need time To fi nd out, EdgeProp.my has come and careful study to resolve. Never- up with a report card of sorts (see page theless, they believed that the current 6) on the ruling coalition’s performance government is open to engagements thus far in relation to housing and real with stakeholders to fi nd solutions to estate sector issues and the related the issues. promises it had made. A total of 13 re- As MIP’s Ihsan said, the scores given spondents from 12 organisations repre- in the poll do not refl ect a failure due to senting relevant stakeholders took part a lack of eff ort but due to the diffi cul- in the poll (see pages 9 to 15). ty in measuring the long-term eff orts Th ey were the Real Estate and Hous- required in dealing with housing and ing Developers’ Association (Rehda) property issues. president Datuk Soam Heng Choon, Rehda Institute chairman Datuk Jeff rey Best performing subjects Ng, the Association of Valuers, Property Among all the promises/issues, fi ve Managers, Estate Agents and Property of them were rated the highest. Th ese Consultants in the Private Sector Ma- were: laysia (PEPS) immediate past presi- dent Foo Gee Jen, its current president 1. Th e setting up of a National Aff orda- Michael Kong, Malaysian Institute of ble Housing Council (rated 3) Estate Agents (MIEA) president Eric 2. Th e government’s openness to con- Lim, Malaysian Institute of Professional sultation and engagement with Estate Agents and Consultants (MIPE- stakeholders for feedback (rated AC) secretary general Low Weng Soon, 2.85) Institute for Democracy and Economic 3. Th e move to gazette the Kuala Lum- Aff airs (IDEAS) senior fellow Carmelo pur City Plan and to draft out new Ferlito, Save KL Coalition (SKL) deputy city plans (rated 2.54) chairperson Datuk M Ali, Malaysian In- 4. Reforming the PR1MA programme stitute of Property and Facility Managers (rated 2.39) (MIPFM) president Sarkunan Subrama- 5. Improving transparency in the pub- niam, Building Managers Association lic procurement and project tender of Malaysia (BMAM) president Tan Sri process (rated 2.39) Teo Chiang Kok, Malaysian Institute of Architects (PAM) president Ezumi Harza- However, there were also areas which ni Ismail, Malaysian Institute of Planners some respondents deemed important (MIP) president Ihsan Zainal Mokhtar Mahathir (centre) but have made little or no progress and the Economic Club of Kuala Lum- leaves after (rated below 2). pur president Tan Sri Dr Michael Yeoh. addressing his ˎ rst Th ese were the promises to provide In the survey, EdgeProp.my has listed assembly of civil incentives to small developers to help down a total of 20 items (please refer servants from the raise their competitiveness, to take over to the report card) including election Prime Minister's the maintenance of low-cost housing promises related to the housing and ofˎ ce in Putrajaya projects, to work with state governments property sector that were stated in PH’s on May 21, 2018. CONTINUES NEXT PAGE manifesto. Th e respondents gauged the eff orts of the government in realising key election promises and in resolving issues related to the housing and prop- erty sector, based on a minimum score of 1 to a maximum score of 5 as below:

1 Too preliminary to tell 2 Progressing albeit slowly 3 Satisfactory 4 Met expectations 5 Exceeded expectations so good? EP 8 FRIDAY AUGUST 24, 2018 • THEEDGE FINANCIAL DAILY

More engagement with stakeholders needed

ALL PICTURES BY LOW YEN YEING | EdgeProp.my FROM PREVIOUS PAGE to convert land status for aff ordable housing pro- jects, prevent land hoarding activity by develop- ers, to build one million aff ordable homes within two terms of the government, and recruitment and training for local youths to become property managers. Change takes time and this was acknowledged by the respondents with a few willing to give the government another six months to one year to come up with more concrete results. As M Ali of SKL mentioned, the execution of some of the manifesto pledges is expected to be delayed due to current challenges that the new government is facing.

What next? More importantly, besides rating the government’s performance, the poll participants have also off ered some pointers for the government moving forward. One point that kept cropping up was the call for the government to have more engagement with relevant stakeholders. Many of the respondents such as Rehda, Rehda Institute, MIEA, MIP, SKL, PEPS and BMAM con- curred that engagement with the local community and professional bodies are important to resolve housing problems such as the mismatch in supply and demand in the housing segment. Ng from Rehda Institute said the new govern- ment has to work hand-in-hand with state govern- ments, NGOs, local authorities, the private sector and all relevant stakeholders in the affordable housing industry to eff ectively deliver its promises as a long-term objective. Meanwhile, Rehda’s Soam said the issue of cross subsidies for low-cost housing, rising compliance The setting up of the National Affordable Housing Council was the highest rated promise in terms of progress. cost and the release of unsold Bumiputera units KPKT shouldn’t be neglected either when resolving af- easier access to home loans, IDEAS’ Ferlito warned fordable housing issues. that the new government should not overlook the To improve the overall housing and develop- fi nancial risks that could come with a relaxation ment ecosystem as well as to ease homeowner- of lending policies. ship, Rehda and Rehda Institute, as well as MI- Low from MIPEAC also hopes that red tape can PEAC reckoned that the government needs to be reduced as he felt that the people still have to take a holistic approach and not only focus on a deal with a lot of bureaucracy in the government single problem. administration which could put a drag on change. PAM urged the government to establish eff ective As the nation strives to build a safe and harmo- platforms for engagement between architects and nious community, MIPFM’s Sarkunan expressed government agencies so that both have an equally concern over public safety and hoped that the clear picture of the loopholes in the current plan- new government will pay more attention to social ning and development ecosystem. problems especially among the young. Meanwhile, Th e Economic Club of Kuala Lum- Th ere is certainly much to do moving forward pur, BMAM and MIP opined that rent-to-own but it is heartening to know that the government (RTO) schemes could be an eff ective way to help is open to feedback and suggestions which vari- more Malaysians own a property, hence greater ous stakeholders are more than willing to provide. emphasis needs to be given to RTO schemes to After all, the goal is to come up with decisions and enable purchasers to eventually buy the house. policies that benefi t the people. Certainly to build On the issue of end-fi nancing, although the a strong and vibrant Malaysia, the government will Housing and Local Government Ministry has said it need all the help it can get as we look forward to Housing and Local Government Minister Zuraida Kamaruddin (second from is making eff orts towards helping homebuyers get celebrating many more National Days to come. right) during a working visit to Kota Samarahan, Sarawak.

Taman Tun Dr Ismail Market traders donating to Tabung Harapan, a trust ˎ nd for Malaysians to help ease the country’s ˎ nancial Minister of Federal Territories Khalid Samad (fourth from left) chairing the ˎ rst situation. council meeting with KL City Hall and KL MPs. FRIDAY AUGUST 24, 2018 • THEEDGE FINANCIAL DAILY EP 9 Forward MARCH

More than three months in, what has the government done right so far? What has it missed? More importantly, how should it move forward? Focusing on the housing and property sector, EdgeProp.my garnered some feedback and suggestions from the ground. Representing the views of economists, property developers, consumers, real estate consultants and other stakeholders in the industry, these 13 spokespersons from 12 organisations had also taken part in a poll to rate the government’s performance in its ˎ rst 100 days with regards to housing and property-related issues (see pages 6, 7 and 8).

Datuk Jeffrey Ng Chairman, Rehda Institute

ased on EdgeProp.my’s survey, problems and confusion for all stakeholders when the new government’s perfor- implementing them. mance in the past three months It is no big deal if they pass the 100 days, so long is at the lower end (too early as the new policies and regulations are implement- to tell). ed eff ectively and equitably. Th e devil is always in However, taking into ac- the implementation of structural changes. count that the issue of afforda- However, there are some laudable moves. For bility in the housing sector is very complex, it instance, the announcement to set up the National “Bwould be unfair to insist that the new govern- Aff ordable Housing Council, as well as to gazette ment must achieve their promises within the the Kuala Lumpur City Plan as soon as possible, first 100 days. are defi nitely very positive. More importantly, various announcements Of course, there are many issues which are cur- made by the new government are definitely rently being looked into by the new government that steps in the right direction, especially to effec- may be “work in progress”, or pending announce- tively overhaul the affordable housing delivery ments in due course, which we are not privy to. system. It is better not to rush into any new Overall, the new government seems to be look- policies and regulations if these are not well ing into all the right areas to address the problems thought through. Any shortfalls can create future unresolved by the previous government.”

Suggestions

“There are two agendas, which Local Government (KPKT) should are suitable for aff ordable might have been overlooked, that work with other ministries and gov- housing development. should be addressed by the new ernment agencies to ascertain the The new government government; regular surveys to supply side of aff ordable housing. can take a holistic ap- keep track of aff ordable housing This is to ensure that the setting up proach to formulate future demand and identify potential land of the National Aff ordable Housing supply of aff ordable homes banks for aff ordable housing de- Council would be in the best posi- on a sustainable basis, in the velopment. tion to register all genuine eligible form of townships or Tran- “There is a need to There is a need to conduct reg- aff ordable homebuyers from the sit-Oriented-Developments for ular surveys and periodic national M40 and B40 groups, and match- affordable housing eco-system conduct regular census to gauge the demand side of ing them to available supply in all suitability. surveys and aff ordable housing requirements, locations in the diff erent states of Another suggestion is for the whether such surveys or census the country. new government to work hand- periodic national are on the current and future de- Meanwhile, it is also crucial that in-hand with state governments, census to gauge mand of aff ordable housing, or the new government identifi es and NGOs, local authorities, private house ownership eligibility based takes stock of all available exist- sectors and all relevant stake- the demand side of on household income, or the type ing potential land banks, which holders in the aff ordable hous- aff ordable housing of housing products required, or are owned by the federal govern- ing industry in order to deliver suitability of locations. ment, state governments, public the manifesto as a long-term ob- requirements.” The Ministry of Housing and sector agencies, and GLCs, which jective.” FONG | THE EDGE SAM EP 10 FRIDAY AUGUST 24, 2018 • THEEDGE FINANCIAL DAILY FRI

Ihsan Zainal Mokhtar President, Malaysian Institute of Planners

believe that it is too early to assess the new government’s actions and policy on “The Kuala Lumpur the housing and property sector, as it may need a longer period to be able to do so. City Plan 2020 “[Th e scores given] do not refl ect a failure due to a lack of eff orts, but be- should have proper cause it is diffi cult to measure the long scrutiny before the term eff orts required in tackling issues related to “Ithe housing and property sector. gazettement takes Over-regulation is always a worry and I place.” think that the new ministers should engage more with all stakeholders, including the professionals. It would also be wise to talk to the previous government and ministers, as the current cabinet and related minis-

tries are very new. EdgeProp.my It is also wise to look at concepts such as rent-to-own, when it comes to home ownership. It has to be properly dis- cussed, especially with the public. An- other point I wish to raise, is that the Kuala Lumpur City Plan 2020 should have proper scrutiny before the gazet- tement takes place.” ALL PICTURES BY LOW YEN YEING ALL PICTURES BY LOW |

Foo Gee Jen Immediate past president, Association of Valuers, Property Managers, Estate Agents and Property Consultants in the Private Sector Malaysia

verall, there is limited time for the with various parties from the real estate, fi nancial and pub- g government to make meaningful lic sectors to gather opinions and devise comprehensive th progress in the fi rst 100 days of ad- solutions. A number of initiatives have been suggested by p ministration. However, they have the KPKT itself and we shall wait and see how they turn h displayed good understanding and out to be. Th e ensuing execution and enforcement mech- sound judgement about the hous- anism is as paramount as the implementation. h ing issues in Malaysia. Th e govern- Nonetheless, considering this is only just past the third u ment seems to have good understanding about the chal- month of the formation of the new government, the Cab- a “Olenges and reality of the property sector, especially when inet formation and the resumption of Parliament seating, s it comes to aff ordable housing. Th us far, I would regard the real performance can only be determined when the a their identifi cation of the issues as proposals are administered as pol- m relevant and timely. icies, bearing in mind that there are a Th e government has done right in tedious due processes that need to recognising that the aff ordable hous- “Anticipation will be be carried out (such as legislation th ing policy needs to be centralised amendments). s for effi cient resource allocation and on the government’s While promoting home-owner- m eff ective delivery; to suggest and to pledges to establish ship is desirable, fi nancial stabili- a determine aff ordability at state-lev- ty has to be preserved as well. Th e p el; looking to rectify the qualitative the National existing EPF (Employees Provident w aspects of housing in the National Aff ordable Housing Fund) withdrawal permission for Housing Policy 2.0 (NHP 2.0) such home fi nancing is welcomed as this s as future building concept, size and Council and the essentially means converting savings v amenities to address mismatch in the release of the NHP in the form of cash to asset. is production of aff ordable housing; Allowing more lenient loan ap- s setting up a centralised and relia- 2.0 which is expected provals however, is more intricate. p ble data repository to keep track of to come up with a Overly loose loan requirements could ti current and future developments; result in fi nancial institutions un- th and drafting the commercial devel- renewed assessment derwriting more risks and the moral opment act which would promote of housing matters.” hazard of recipients taking on exces- o healthy practices and safeguard the sive fi nancial commitment beyond c interest of all parties. their capacity. c In months to come, anticipation It is also equally important to lo will be on the government’s pledges to establish the Na- promote a property market with healthy and sustaina- a tional Aff ordable Housing Council and the release of the ble growth. Erratic policy changes, such as the freezing b NHP 2.0 which is expected to come up with a renewed of development approval, should be avoided as shocks ti assessment of housing matters. In July, KPKT was re- may dampen investors’ confi dence and trigger adverse h ported to be in talks with NAPIC (the National Property reactions. Measures that are being introduced must be m Information Centre) to sort out arrangements for setting deliberate and well-articulated, backed by careful assess- up a data repository — this is a move that many have ment of possible outcomes. te been calling for. To achieve targeted delivery, fair distribution, and c It is heartening to know that KPKT is actively engaging transparent allocation of aff ordable houses, the back- S FRIDAY AUGUST 24, 2018 • THEEDGE FINANCIAL DAILY EP 11

Michael Kong President, Association of Valuers, Property Managers, Estate Agents and Property Consultants in the Private Sector Malaysia

n general, the current government is on the aspect of good governance and policy making. Th e right track. Structural changes are diffi cult new Pakatan Harapan government is already en- and have to be carried out carefully and gaging the people for consultations and feedback to slowly, step-by-step, minding every little understand what went wrong and what is better, for matter and detail to achieve the desired the sake of nation building in general and real estate objectives. Several major issues have to be development in particular. carefully studied and researched. A prop- Th e current emphasis of the new Pakatan Hara- erly planned programme is better than a rushed one. pan government in relation to real estate is primari- “ITh e government has done right in improving trans- ly focused on the M40 and B40. However, real estate parency in the government’s procurement and project policies should be looked at holistically, involving tender processes. Transparency enables the people the T20 group as well as foreign investors to ensure a or responsible parties to ensure that things are done vibrant and sustainable real estate market in the long in the right way, preventing hidden agendas and per- run. Th ere shouldn’t be ‘knee jerk’ policies that will sonal benefi ts. spook foreign investors and disrupt the equilibrium Engagement with stakeholders is an important of the market.” EdgeProp.my

Suggestions “Real estate policies “To improve and achieve targets, regards to the real estate market. Although a part of the whole the government should continue A holistic plan should be care- community needs help and aid from should be to engage and have more dialogues fully crafted and formed to deliver the government, surely the other with NGOs, professional bodies, and benefi ts to the people in each cate- parts of the community make up looked at developers to understand the un- gory from the low, middle, and high the market and the country as a holistically.” derlying problems and issues with income groups. whole.” ALL PICTURES BY LOW YEN YEING ALL PICTURES BY LOW |

n the fi rst 100 days after Pakatan Hara- pan took over Putrajaya, they have been busy clearing up the mess made Datuk M Ali by the previous government and have to sort out some fi nancial challenges Deputy chairperson, at the moment. Th is is why they have Save KL Coalition not been able to move forward in ground of the applicants needs to be ascertained. Th is is to ensure executing the promises they had made before the applicants’ eligibility criteria are fulfi lled, and prevent multi- “Ithe election fully. Th eir focus is currently pretty ple-ownership of aff ordable houses. Th e centralisation of aff ordable much on fi re-fi ghting. housing schemes under one agency should make this possible. My prediction is that the execution of mani- The government should not be the provider of affordable festos will only happen six to 12 months later. Th e housing in the long-term. Th is is because it would be fi nancially fi rst 100 days is a tough period, given the current unsustainable to continuously subsidise houses, given that land challenges that the new government is facing. and input costs are ever-increasing. Looking at the aspect of ba- It is also a good lesson to the new govern- sic needs, the priority should be in ensuring every Malaysian has ment to not over-promise, before actually un- a roof over their heads, it may be rented or owned. Th e govern- derstanding the situation. Having said that, ment should step up provision of public rental housing to serve many advanced countries face similar prob- as interim accommodation that has low barrier of access to all. lems during transition periods despite being Rental income gives liquidity and steadier fl ow of revenue to more transparent. the government, compared to developing aff ordable houses for I will not judge what the new government sale at a subsidised price. It has to be said however, that improve- has done right or wrong in just a hundred days. ments on rental market and practices in Malaysia (e.g. tenant However, I think the change (in government) and landlord profi les repository, tribunal to solve dispute, com- is the most important thing achieved. Other prehensive tenancy act) are needed for the rental market to be than that, there are still a lot of questions to well-received by the public. be answered. At present, the aff ordable housing segment is by and large a I think the most important thing is to set up supplementary product in the open market where the parties in- an eff ective, functioning, transparent, and open volved and transaction mechanisms are not exclusive. Th erefore, it minded government. Th e government needs to is unlikely that house prices in the open market can be controlled go to the right place to do the right thing. Th e since market forces cannot be contained. As such, keeping house chaos in the beginning is acceptable. Th e peo- prices at aff ordable levels would be challenging. Th e ultimate solu- ple will understand that you (the government) tion to enhancing aff ordability of Malaysians still lie in improving need time and support to get the engine start- the income level and purchasing power. ed and warm up, but it shouldn’t take too long While a number of mega projects have been scrapped or put because we already have the full cabinet now.” on hold to restore fiscal discipline, the government needs to continue looking into improving public transport as connectivity could essentially reduce the cost of living, raise productivity, un- lock new development areas, and extend the reach of residential “It is a good lesson to areas. Th is would then ease the upward pressure on price caused by over-demand of residential properties in a few limited loca- the new government to tions. Th e Ministry of Transport’s plan to develop affordable not over-promise, before housing projects on Railway Assets Corporation’s land is very much welcomed. actually understanding Th e present discourses are focused on setting up the right sys- tem. Th ere shall be more attention on optimising the development the situation.” costs after this, such as incentives for IBS (Industrialised Building System) and reducing compliance costs for developers.” EP 12 FRIDAY AUGUST 24, 2018 • THEEDGE FINANCIAL DAILY FRI

Eric Lim E President, Malaysian Institute of Estate Agents

asically, most [of the policies] are still under planning and nothing concrete has been ex- ecuted [during the 100 days]. However, the government has done right in making the eff ort to engage with Bank Negara Malaysia, commercial banks and other stakehold- “Bers to understand the issue of property lending, while putting all the agencies for creating aff orda- ble housing under one single entity. “I hope the But they have somehow overlooked the M40 government can have category while putting too much emphasis on B40. EdgeProp.my Th e challenge faced by the M40 in urban areas is more engagement something the government needs to look into. I with the relevant hope the government can have more engagement with the relevant bodies associated with the target bodies associated with group. Th ese are the parties that understand the the target group.” underlying issues faced by the general market.” ALL PICTURES BY LOW YEN YEING ALL PICTURES BY LOW |

Datuk Soam Heng Choon President, Real Estate and Housing Developers’ Association

ince the new government came central agency for data collection is also much into power in May this year, and welcomed by developers. Th e availability of such the Cabinet ministers named later data will enable developers to make informed on, several measures have been decisions in their purchasing of land, the type announced or proposed with the of properties to build, as well as pricing, so as to purpose of elevating the nation’s deliver what the consumers are looking for. Simi- growth, economy and stability. larly, the availability of such data will also benefi t However, as it has only been slightly more than purchasers. “Sthree months since the new government took over, Other than that, the announcement by the KPKT it would be diffi cult to make comments on their Minister on the government’s plan to introduce performance to date, at this point of time. a new housing loan scheme to help the M40 and Nevertheless, we are happy to note that they B40 household groups to buy houses will hopefully have taken into consideration some of the pro- help to solve the end-fi nancing issues, especially posals that Rehda had earlier put forward to the among this specifi c target group. government. We also look forward to the discussion between Th e announcement by the National Housing the Ministry and Bank Negara Malaysia, in fi nding Department to establish a singular entity to over- amicable solutions to the end-fi nancing problem. see and coordinate the development of social and Th e government has only been in power for sev- T aff ordable housing in the country will certainly go eral months and should be given time to look into a long way towards achieving the homeownership the many issues faced by the various industries. Pr agenda, especially for those in the B40 and M40 For the property industry, we hope the govern- categories. ment will continue to introduce measures and in- Th e announcement of the establishment of a itiatives towards the betterment of the industry.”

Suggestions

“We hope the government will give er segments within a project, TNB), among many others. priority to: which causes property prices • Measures to assist in the clear- ge of other segments to increase. ing of unsold stock, as well as “Rehda stands “ou • More measures to facilitate Rectifying the issue would be release of unsold bumiputera red home acquisitions among the able to tackle the prices of prop- units so that capital is not tied committed to rakyat, especially for fi rst-time erties in the other segments. up and can be utilised. continue our bil house buyers. First-time home • Active measures to reduce the foc buyers are mostly young execu- cost of doing business. Devel- We hope the government will cooperation with pr tives with minimal funding and opers are currently asked to continue engaging with industry the government, of savings, and face many issues pay/provide for land conversion stakeholders and Rehda stands of when purchasing a house, such premium, planning require- committed to continue our cooper- government agencies to as the inability to pay the 10% ments for facilities and social ation with the government, govern- and other industry un down payment. amenities, construction levy, ment agencies and other industry de • Addressing issues of cross sub- foreign labour levy, compliance players to uplift the strengths of players to uplift mo sidisation in the country. Cross of construction site require- our economy and ensure that the the strengths of our aff subsidies for low-cost units are ments and capital contribu- prosperity of the nation as a whole shouldered by buyers of oth- tion charges (water, sewerage, is preserved.” economy.” MOHD IZWAN MOHD NAZAM | THE EDGE MOHD IZWAN FRIDAY AUGUST 24, 2018 • THEEDGE FINANCIAL DAILY EP 13

Ezumi Harzani Ismail President, Malaysian Institute of Architects

he new government is work- much information from the construction industry ing hard to handle the issue players – developers, architects, engineers, con- of affordable housing. How- tractors and banks to fi nd out. ever, the same administrative If they go to the grassroots, they would know “Change in offi cers and staff from the pre- that compliance costs for construction is the cul- vious government remain in- prit. Th ere are too many unnecessary regulations leadership efficient. There is no sign of imposed by regulators that contributed to addi- isn’t enough. improvement at the administrative and working tional cost of developments. “Tlevel. Business as usual, they remain pessimis- At present there are many issues tied to the in- It requires tic, without motivation to improve the situation. effi ciencies of local governments that are actually Change in leadership isn’t enough. It requires contributing to the high cost of development. For strong strong leadership to change the civil servants too. example, some local authorities (PBT) have yet leadership to From our experience in dealing with passive and to gazette their local plans. Th is has led to land- poor performance among KPKT staff and offi cers, owners having to do a search on adjacent parcels change the civil many initiatives proposed by the industry and of land to get their neighbour’s planning approval servants too.” business communities were not implemented or (Neighbour’s Notice/Notis Berjiran) for a proposed EdgeProp.my even adequately considered. Th e issues on partial development. For each search, the PBT collects certifi cate of completion and compliance money from the landowner. Is it any wonder why (CCC) for Vacant Possession are still PBTs are dragging their feet to gazette local plans? left unattended and without prop- The government has done right in terms of er solution. Th ey don’t even try to addressing the shortage of aff ordable housing, understand the meaning of Partial and they have sought the advice of Bank Negara CCC as stipulated in the Uniform regarding the fi nancial loan structure that can be Building By-Laws. off ered to the rakyat. Th e ministry has also not found Th ey have done the right thing to centralise the the core reason for the imbal- aff ordable housing development agencies such ALL PICTURES BY LOW YEN YEING ALL PICTURES BY LOW | ance in the aff ordable housing as PR1MA, PPA1M, PPRT and others. However, segment. KPKT should gather as the new central agency has yet to be functional.”

Suggestions

“They need to relook at the peo- to regulate commercial devel- issues and resolve it objectively. ple advising the government in opments. Have they studied and The present government offi cers housing matters. The same of- tried to understand the system who have served under the previ- fi cers advised and failed the pre- fi rst before making changes to the ous government still behave just vious government. It is time for regulations? like before, dragging their feet and the new government to get a new Establish more programmes refusing to change. They have little set of offi cers who understand the and platforms for engagement understanding of industry matters industry and public issues, and with professional bodies, business and keep on imposing new barriers make necessary changes to the organisations and public /commu- to the building and construction institution. nities in order to receive the true industry, thus impeding its growth. I am very concerned with the and proper feedback of what is They must be replaced with announcement made by the Hous- happening on the ground. Don’t a new generation of people who ing Ministry recently about loop- just listen to the same offi cers. are more qualifi ed, and eager to holes in the CCC system and their We need to help the new gov- change, and make things better intention to introduce a new Act ernment to understand the real for the nation.”

Tan Sri Teo Chiang Kok President, Building Management Association of Malaysia “The government needs more he new government’s enthu- siasm is remarkable and they consultations have done right in addressing with the industry, the obstacles and working on possible solutions. However, the to get practical government needs more con- sultations with the industry, to suggestions get practical suggestions that will lift the industry that will lift the “Tout of the present challenging environment and reduce the cost of development. industry out Th ere is concentrated focus to solve the aff orda- of the present bility gap, but there needs to be a more urgent focus on solving the current overhang in unsold challenging properties. Th e gap in aff ordability is the result environment.” of callous impositions that led to the rising cost s of development. Hence, the government needs to review all such unfair impositions, and reduce unnecessary and unfair compliance costs while de-emphasising house ownership, and introduce more rental housing for those who are unable to aff ord a house at the moment.” MOHD IZWAN MOHD NAZAM | THE EDGE MOHD IZWAN EP 14 FRIDAY AUGUST 24, 2018 • THEEDGE FINANCIAL DAILY FRI

Carmelo Ferlito S Senior Fellow, Institute for Democracy Pr “I would and Economic Affairs an suggest that t seems that the government took the from direct intervention is required, in order to at- the government housing issue very seriously, but that tract private investors towards the aff ordable hous- improve and does not necessarily mean that it acted ing market, where they are presently crowded out in the right way. Th ere are two emphasis by government action. achieve their points, which pose a great concern — Th is would help the necessary reshaping of the targets moving introducing favourable loan conditions capital structure, from the high-end sector towards for the B40 and M40, and decreasing the aff ordable housing market. Th e government forward, by the number of agencies involved in the aff ordable should eventually focus on a system of fi scal incen- the “Ihousing market (from 20 to 6). tives for the developers. Th e government’s concern “ letting the First of all, the general premise to our comments is right, although the actions announced so far do ing boom turn into is that 100 days for plans regarding the housing not point in the right direction. me a bust.” market is really a very limited period of time. It is impossible for the government to implement is n Therefore, sound judgement would be possible in a plan consistent with the market needs, because the to c six months’ time. Nevertheless, it is positive that the government acts beyond the market. Some of the government takes great concern with the issue and points they have overlooked include the fi nancial mo wants to be operational in a fast way, to announce risks linked with the possibility of easy credit, and me a new housing loan plan by September 2018. the need to open up the aff ordable housing market rec However, relaxed loans might prolong the period to private developers and the interplay of market int of high prices, delaying an unavoidable crisis (the forces. Th ey have also overlooked the possibility to only real way to get prices moving downwards), ease access to the market for foreign buyers who and increasing the fi nancial exposure of house- meet certain criteria, such as long term residents holds in general. and stable taxpayers. It is curious to see that Bank Negara was not “ supportive of such a move in the past, while it now g seems more open to ease the credit conditions for Suggestions a the housing market. s Reducing the number of agencies involved in the “I would suggest that the government improve and a aff ordable housing market will not really solve achieve their targets moving forward, by letting l the problem, as long as the government the boom turn into a bust. That is the best way to a is not able to gather the necessary see prices move down, and to favour market-ori- information for sound plan- ented solutions rather than government-driven p ning, because information ones, such as involving private developers in the b can be collected only via aff ordable housing market. t dispersed interaction in It is also important to avoid easy credit, to im- i the market. prove fi nancial literacy, and to promote pre-rent a Instead, a gradual step mentality.” o back by the government INSTITUTE FOR DEMOCRACY AND ECONOMIC AFFAIRS AND ECONOMIC INSTITUTE FOR DEMOCRACY

Low Weng Soon Secretary-general, Malaysian Institute of Professional Estate Agents and Consultants

think the government is progressing, Plan 2020 (to be) gazetted as soon as possible, albeit slowly, but that’s understand- and he would ensure all FT Members of Parlia- able given the huge debt situation as ment, including those from the opposition, be announced by Finance Minister Lim involved in future development plans. Guan Eng. Meanwhile, KPKT is working with Bank Negara We laud the new government’s Malaysia to ease housing loan requirements for eff orts to improve transparency in ad- home buyers, in a bid to reduce the number of ministration, especially with regards to some al- unsold completed residential units in the coun- “Ilegedly dubious land transfers related to DBKL try. Th is is a welcome move. (KL City Hall) and in wanting to make things right. Th e new government is now in a state that can Th e federal territories minister has recently be likened to a fi re-fi ghting mode. So many things stated in Parliament that he wants the KL Draft are clamouring for immediate action.”

“There needs to be clear cut Suggestions procedures, “Bureaucracy is still prevalent. For clear cut procedures, conditions, There is also a need for infor- conditions, and example, if one were to apply for a and time frame stated for pro- mation to be readily available. licence or permit, besides the usu- cessing applications. This would A developer has to know what is al conditions, there is still a lot of greatly reduce the temptation for happening in the surrounding are-

time frame stated EdgeProp.my discretionary power given to the any party to shorten or bypass as, and the limitations of develop- for processing processing offi cer and the commit- the process through solicited or ment, before even buying a piece applications.” tee approving it. There needs to be unsolicited monetary incentives. of land for development.” LOW YEN YEING LOW | LOW WENG SOON LOW FRIDAY AUGUST 24, 2018 • THEEDGE FINANCIAL DAILY EP 15

Sarkunan Subramaniam President, Malaysian Institute of Property and Facility Managers

at- or the past 100 days, after Pakatan Harapan took over us- Putrajaya, I think they are doing okay so far in terms of out property and real estate-related policies. While we are still waiting for the release of the National the Housing Policy 2.0 in September, I think the Housing Min- rds istry should make sure that they talk to every stakeholder in ent the industry and do enough research before they conclude en- the drafting of the policy. “There are some ern “FWe have all noticed that the ministry is more focused on aff ordable hous- do ing, homeownership of the B40 and M40 groups and their living environ- things that the ment. However, we must not neglect other housing issues in the nation. It government may ent is necessary to do comprehensive research and talk to everyone, in order the to come out with a good housing policy. need to pay more the Nevertheless, I think the housing ministry and government as a whole are attention to, such cial moving in the right direction, and have sent out clear, strong and powerful nd messages — to fi ght against corruption, increase transparency and to cor- as the issue of ket rect some wrongdoings in the past. Th ese are the core issues being looked safety and security. ket into by the new government.” y to Problems such as who gangsterism and nts Suggestions social problems “There are some things that the is safe and harmonious, it is nec- as a waste of resources. among the government may need to pay more essary to address the root of the I think this could be avoided by attention to, such as the issue of issue. setting clear terms for every min- youth need to be safety and security. Problems such After 100 days, the dust (from istry and department. They need to d as gangsterism and social prob- the General Election) would have know their duties and boundaries. addressed.” g lems among the youth need to be settled and all the ministries Another thing that I’m suggest- o addressed. formed and running. I think one ing is to make it very clear as to - It is necessary to ‘clean’ up the of the fi rst things to do now is to who can make statements to the n police force. We need the police to identify the main duties and focus public. I think it should be the job e be transparent, loyal and trustwor- of each ministry to avoid overlap. of the minister, because he or she

thy to protect the rakyat. Gangster- In the past, a few ministries had is the one presenting new sug- EdgeProp.my - ism is the root of many community the right to comment or investi- gestions in the cabinet. He or she t and society safety problems. In gate an issue, which caused con- should be the only one to make order to build a community that fusion among the public, as well offi cial statements in public.” LOW YEN YEING LOW |

Tan Sri Dr Michael Yeoh President, Economic Club of Kuala Lumpur

he new government has just come onboard for no more than a few months. Some of Suggestions the ministers have just been sworn in in July. In such a short time, now would be a “We suggest that KPKT put more bit too early to assess their performance. emphasis on rent-to-own (RTO) However, statements made by the new methods of homeownership and KPKT Minister Zuraida Kamaruddin have encourage industry players to off er been very encouraging, as she seems to be fervently looking more housing projects under the “Tinto the problems faced by industry players, house buyers, RTO schemes that enable purchas- as well as the overall environment of the industry. ers to rent fi rst and then convert “The industry also KPKT is constantly meeting and organising dialogue to become the owner of the house looks forward sessions with key stakeholders to understand their prob- later when their fi nancial conditions lems and discuss ways for resolutions. Th is is something are stabilised. to the review of the which I think they have done right and have met public’s Meanwhile, to prevent unreal- expectations. istic housing price growth, we also National Housing Other laudable moves by KPKT include mooting the suggest that the ministry review Policy, with the set-up of the National Aff ordable Housing Council, that the approvals for high-end con- will enable the ministry to centralise all aff ordable hous- dominium developments.” expectation that it ing schemes under one roof. Th is will avoid confusion could improve the and enable the ministry to handle all related problems effi ciently.

EdgeProp.my overall demand Besides this, the industry also looks forward to the re- and supply situation view of the National Housing Policy, with the expectation that it could improve the overall demand-and-supply in Malaysia.” situation in Malaysia, as well as encourage homeown- ership for genuine homebuyers.” LOW YEN YEING LOW | EP 16 FRIDAY AUGUST 24, 2018 • THEEDGE FINANCIAL DAILY FRI

Goals, challenges and a wish for the nation

t is not easy serving the people, as many of the new Malaysian cabinet ministers are quickly finding out. Nevertheless, many stu have undoubtedly taken the bull by the National ma horns, in trying to get a good grasp on Zuraida of n their new roles and the many issues they Day wish has Ihave to contend with. Kamaruddin While the new government and the min- “This is our we isters’ performance in the fi rst 100 days have country, let us Housing and Local sur been and will be continually assessed — by the mi public, by professional bodies, by the private never forget that Government Minister com sector and just about everybody — what do the government eng the ministers think of their own performanc- now is ourselves, he fi rst woman to helm the minis- ert es thus far? a government try, Zuraida holds a degree in Social age We asked three cabinet ministers – Hous- that will work T Sciences as well as a degree in Sales is v ing and Local Government Minister Zuraida and Marketing. She has been the Ampang ach Kamaruddin, Works Minister Baru Bian and and strive for MP since 2008 and is the Wanita chief of Federal Territories Minister Khalid Abdul Sam- the benefi t of Parti Keadilan Rakyat (PKR), a component 2.0 ad for self-evaluation, and about the challeng- the rakyat. All party of Pakatan Harapan. and es they face. In conjunction with National Day of us must stand Co 2018, they also revealed their one wish — to together as one What do you think of the tha build a nation for all Malaysians. entity in order ministry’s efforts in achieving can the government’s promises all to ensure the related to housing and the the betterment of property industry so far? all Malaysians.” As the minister of KPKT (Ministry of Hous- hou ing and Local Government), I would say that mu the ministry is doing its best in fulfi lling our ach promises related to the housing and property Pol industry. All action taken by the ministry is of i well-planned and equipped with suffi cient of t

Baru Bian Works Minister

lawyer with his own legal firm, he made ment and involvement of all government agencies cru history as the first leader of the Lun and local authorities to facilitate the achievement is t A Bawang community in Sarawak to be of this goal. to a appointed a cabinet minister. He is also Sarawak To date, the MoW and the relevant agencies spe PKR chief. have completed a comprehensive proposal with regards to IBS in infrastructure development, in- me What do you think of the cluding aff ordable homes. pro ministry’s efforts in achieving the to e government’s promises related to What are some of the challenges and housing and the property industry faced by the ministry in meeting for so far? its goals? exi Th e main focus of the Ministry of Works (MoW) Future infrastructure challenges will be on ways National Day wish We has always been the wellbeing and safety of the to reduce cost, while ensuring resource effi ciency Go rakyat through infrastructure developments. Th ese through the Industrial Revolution 4.0, the Internet objectives can be realised and accelerated with of Th ings (IoT), improved vehicles (self-driving “My wish is very simple. the the utilisation of the latest technology including autopilot), mobility, seamless connectivity, mech- It is to live in a Malaysia app mechanisation and automation. anisation, and automation. where every citizen is tha Th e ministry has launched and is actively work- Th ere is also an urgent need to upskill the con- seen as a Malaysian, and ne ing towards implementing the adoption of In- struction workforce to keep pace with modern- for dustrialised Building System (IBS). Through isation and effi ciency gains in the construction has equal opportunity stru its ecosystem, the MoW together with the Con- industry, to make the industry attractive to the to succeed in every of l struction Industry Development Board (CIDB) locals, and get away from the stigma of 4Ds (dan- aspect of life. Where we to has engaged various ministries and technical gerous, dirty, diffi cult, no dignity) thereby reducing ful agencies to expedite the adoption of IBS in both dependence on foreign labour. can build this nation con public and private projects. Another challenge would be in keeping up with together, to make it Targeting full implementation in 2020, CIDB the maintenance of roads which often suff er damage truly a country for every and also conducts training sessions for manufactur- due to our tropical weather that brings heavy rains Malaysian. Where every ate ers, installers and distributors of IBS construction and extreme heat. Th e diff erences in soil types and unl products and services. conditions also contribute to various issues that citizen will be proud to the To further boost the adoption of IBS in the con- crop up regularly. Th is requires continuous eff ort belong to Malaysia and sur struction industry, various incentives and training by our agencies, resulting in greater resources in be called a Malaysian.” tra including tax incentives for IBS-related machin- the form of cost, time and energy. its eries are being reviewed. Moreover, currently the MoW is moving towards MoW also aims to require all private projects using open tenders extensively, with transparen- W worth more than RM50 million to be carried out cy, especially for large-scale government projects. m using IBS. Th e MoW will also ensure full commit- Th is is to ensure public funds are well spent. It is BARU BIAN by FRIDAY AUGUST 24, 2018 • THEEDGE FINANCIAL DAILY EP 17

National Day wish

“I wish that this National Day will mark the beginning of a New Malaysia, where narrow and bigoted race and religious politics are rejected by all Malaysians, and we become truly united as a nation. Both race and religion study. This is with regards to all It is important for us to be real- should be a uniting force, matters including the introduction istic in our vision and mission. For instead of creating disunity of new policies and all action that these plans and policies that are has been taken by us. being crafted, studies and research and strife. All races and n Regarding aff ordable housing, have been conducted by experts to religions, in their long we have taken many steps to en- ensure that they can be eff ectively history, have seen how sure that our goals to build one implemented. hatred only breeds violence EdgeProp.my million aff ordable houses can be- come a reality. Th at is why we are What are some of the and destruction. Malaysia engaging state governments, prop- challenges faced by the should embrace the nis- erty developers and various other ministry in meeting its principles of justice, peace cial agencies, because their cooperation goals? and unity valued by all les is very much needed for this to be I have said previously in my state- ang achieved. ments, that it is imperative for races and religions.” f of Our Dasar Perumahan Negara everyone to be on the same page.

ent 2.0 or National Housing Policy 2.0 Towards this end, we constantly en- YEN YEING PICTURES BY LOW | and National Aff ordable Housing gage with the various stakeholders Council are underway. We hope including the property industry, that by next year, all these policies developers, house buyers, media, Khalid Abdul Samad g can be implemented to ensure that and most importantly the rakyat all Malaysians will benefit from themselves. Federal Territories Minister these action plans. KPKT’s vision is not just to build What do you and us- houses. We are also building com- the ministry hope to halid is Shah Alam MP and a member of Managing escalating costs is obviously a major hat munities. In order for that to be achieve by the next Parti Amanah Negara, a component par- challenge. In attempting to handle this challenge our achieved, the National Community National Day? K ty of the Pakatan Harapan coalition. He is we must be able to scrutinise the whole approval erty Policy is being drafted with the aim We hope that all of our plans to a graduate in Fuel and Energy Engineering from process, ensuring that excessive red tape is done y is of improving the living conditions uplift the living conditions of all Leeds University, UK. He was born about two weeks away with, thereby reducing holding and fi nancial ent of the rakyat. Malaysians will become a reality. before Malaysia’s Independence. costs for the developers, who in turn will be able to utilise the benefi t of these savings by providing What do you think of the homes at a lower price. ministry’s efforts in achieving Th e Ministry must also be innovative in pro- the government’s promises related viding solutions to reduce cost, but in a manner to housing and property industry which is both transparent and with minimal risks so far? both to itself and the prospective buyers. Th e Ministry embarked on the building of aff orda- Financial assistance to buyers is also a chal- ble homes through RUMAWIP or Rumah Wilayah lenge, and while this is not directly under the crucial to prevent wastage, and it Focused and guided by the com- Persekutuan in 2014. Th ese aff ordable homes are Ministry, it has a role to play in proposing ways to is the obligation of the government prehensive Buku Harapan to en- built with the cooperation of the private sector, the government to ensure the availability of such to always ensure that this money is hance the wellbeing of the rakyat, where through a method of cross subsidy, homes facilities for all. spent optimally. and towards better infrastructure are built at more aff ordable prices, being capped The Pakatan Harapan govern- development, the MoW is commit- at RM300,000. What do you and the Ministry hope ment will improve the government’s ted to elevating mobility and con- Unfortunately all this while, this has been done to achieve by the next National Day? procurement and tendering system nectivity through development and through direct negotiations, and this has led to If ‘by the next National Day’ means the 31st of Au- to ensure that it is more competitive, maintenance of roads especially in some questionable ‘discounts’ and ‘concessions’ gust 2018, then it would have just been slightly less and thereby generate the best value rural areas. being given to the private developers in return for than two months since I took offi ce. for public funds by reviewing the Th e MoW will optimise our coor- the building of the RUMAWIP units. Nonetheless, we have introduced a more partic- existing procurement procedures. dination with the state governments In other words, while the approach is good, as the ipative process for elected representatives through We will eventually introduce a new on infrastructure projects such as government does not need to come out with cash, the Majlis Menteri meeting in DBKL. Th is ensures Government Procurement Act. dilapidated schools and hospitals its implementation has led to over-development in all MPs are invited to participate in decision making As we speak, the Ministry is in particularly in Sabah and Sarawak. certain areas of Kuala Lumpur and an ineff ective and planning for the development of Kuala Lumpur. the midst of reviewing all previously States in the peninsula will also be management of the development process. At the At the same time we will be gazetting the De- approved infrastructure projects so given due attention, so that the infra- same time the same contractors seem to dominate velopment Plan Kuala Lumpur 2020 this year. We that they can be prioritised based on structure projects will have a positive or monopolise the RUMAWIP projects. further wish to untangle the issues surrounding need. Th e Ministry is responsible impact on all Malaysians. Currently over 55,000 RUMAWIP units are in the 64 development packages which have been for providing much needed infra- Th e Ministry and its six agencies diff erent stages of completion while another over frequently reported by the media. We wish to also structure to improve the standard including professional boards will 25,000 are in the pipeline. Th e Ministry, under the handle the over-development problem of Kuala of living, and priority will be given strive and utilise all our resources new leadership, will carry on with the building of Lumpur by fi nding ways of easing its traffi c jams. to projects that are truly impact- to garner solid development of the RUMAWIP units but its implementation will be With respect to Labuan, we wish to return the ful to economic development and infrastructure and construction sec- more transparent through a process of open tenders. attention of the Ministry to Labuan, and making connectivity. tor in Malaysia. Th e RUMAWIP houses target the middle in- the economic development of the island a priority. Projects which had been signed Though this is a monumental come group as they do not qualify for low-cost Th is includes the question of uplifting the existing and duly assigned to the appropri- task, I, as the Minister of Works, houses while the open market houses are beyond economic activities on the island and upgrading ate contractors would be continued, will always strive to address these their means. its tourist sites. unless there are issues raised against challenges. At the same time, housing for the poor, through With respect to Putrajaya, we wish to see it be- them. We are working towards en- I have made it my utmost priority the building of Rumah Awam and PPR will also come a major tourist destination, for both local suring that the MoW is efficient, to ensure the safety and comfort of continue. and international tourists, through the hosting of transparent and accountable in all the rakyat as a whole. Th is is in line various international events. Th is is intended to its dealings. with the Ministry’s vision which is to What are some of the challenges faced make Putrajaya a vibrant city with many ongoing be the pioneer in the development by the ministry in meeting its goals? events throughout the year. What do you and the of infrastructure and spur our de- Th e biggest challenge is to ensure that we are able By the next National Day, we hope to see the ministry hope to achieve velopment to be more competitive to provide aff ordable housing for not only the poor, eff orts having borne fruit and much of what we are BARU BIAN by the next National Day? in the global market. but also for those in the middle-income group. currently working on, as above, has been achieved. EP 18 FRIDAY AUGUST 24, 2018 • THEEDGE FINANCIAL DAILY FRI

In 5 sim

Preserving our architectural heritage in EdgeProp.my

PICTURES BY LOW YEN YEING PICTURES BY LOW | DIORAMAS

Eddie believes BY NATALIE KHOO feel? Th at was how it all started,” Eddie tells in preserving EdgeProp.my. as memories and hilosopher and novelist George A close look at the dioramas reveals amaz- wit architectural Santayana once said: To know ing attention to detail. Th ere were even some win values for the your future, you must know “kopitiams” adorned with Chinese char- I w next generation. your past. acters. Piqued, the writer asks if he knows tim For Malaysian-based visual Chinese. artist Eddie Putera Noordin, it “No lah, I just copy the words I see on If y Pis important to preserve the past for future the signage and replicate it on my artwork. no generations. To this end, he utilises his fi ne I just want my artwork to be as close and Bu craftsmanship to painstakingly create de- look as real as the original building as pos- Ed tailed dioramas. sible,” he chuckles. His three-dimensional miniatures or full- her size models of objects and landscapes feature Drawings come to life retro-themed scenes of Malaysia. Th e 51-year old artist is an architect grad- gen “I do paintings, sculptures, sketching and uate, but did not want to work within the loo I take photographs. I cannot write, I cannot confi nes of a nine-to-fi ve desk job. com sing but I love telling stories with art. Right after he graduated, he took up the “Three years ago I thought to myself, job of a salesman at Imbi Plaza selling com- ‘Everything I do [my artwork] is in two-di- puters. At the same time, he was also con- mensional format. Why don’t I try exploring stantly doing what he loved – sketching and a three-dimensional kind of art?’ taking photographs. “I have also been an avid car collector, “I told myself if I were to be poor, then so so I thought, if I were to put this car in front be it. I really hated working within a confi ned of a house or a garage, how will it look and environment where my time was strapped.

Eddie draws most of his inspiration from heritage buildings, especially in Penang. FRIDAY AUGUST 24, 2018 • THEEDGE FINANCIAL DAILY EP 19

In 50 years, Eddie says the future generation may not be able to imagine the look of a With an eye for detail, simple wooden frame or traditional structures. Eddie shows us how he creates window cracks and rust effects in his dioramas.

this is my grandfather’s car or this is a house which I used to stay in, can you build it for me? To me, I am already semi-retired. I am not doing this for money. Instead, it is some- thing which I really love doing so it comes down to the quality of work and not about SCAN NOW for a the quantity,” Eddie reveals. video about Eddie Because Eddie is so immaculate and me- ticulous, his biggest challenge is the pressure he puts on himself to rebuild the memories Eddie loves of another person. toy cars as “Is this what they want? Is the colour of can be seen the door, the rust and the structure accurate? from his huge “Technically it is not a challenge for collection. me, because I am a painter. I use a lot of time in recreating the rust and the cracks on the windows. But whether I can make the feeling [of nostalgia] come back is an- ells “At that time, even when I was working tures, or pre-war shops and houses of our generation can only read about how these other matter. as a salesman, I always took a sketchbook country. buildings used to look like, but they cannot “When I see the look of happiness on the az- with me wherever I went. If I saw an [ornate] “Preserving these memories and archi- see it physically. So this is why I want to rec- faces of the recipients for instance, when me window on a building or a unique structure, tectural values for the next generation is reate them,” Eddie emphasises. the dioramas are presented to their fathers ar- I would just sit at the roadside and take my something I am passionate about. or grandfathers, I feel like it is all worth it. ws time to sketch it. “Penang is a place where I draw a lot of Giving tangibility to memories It is a feeling which cannot be explained,” “I took time to study how shadows work. my inspiration from. I will just drive up, He typically spends two to three weeks to says Eddie. on If you take a photo of a building, you might snap pictures, sketch and study the mate- work on a project, and up to two months In reply to why people need art, Eddie rk. not remember the details of the building. rials of these buildings. I will go around and when he works on several projects simul- sums it up succinctly: nd But if you take time to sketch it, you do,” ask some of the elderly uncles and aunties taneously, depending on the scale and “Why do they buy paintings and go to os- Eddie explains. about the materials used for the building, diffi culty. museums? Eddie draws most of his inspiration from even to the kind of tiles they use. Most of Eddie’s works are commissioned “Human beings need to eat. Physically, heritage buildings, especially from Penang. “I then use materials such as putty fi llers from America, Europe and the Middle East. we eat to keep our bodies healthy. But what In 50 years’ time, he says, the future mixed with sand to recreate a similar struc- However, not every request makes it to the about our soul? Our souls also need ‘food’. ad- generation may not be able to imagine the ture in my dioramas. list. “Art is the food for your soul. And as an the look of a simple wooden window frame so “Who knows, maybe one day all Penang “I do not sell my work, but I do take orders. artist, I am the chef that prepares this food common in our past, the traditional struc- buildings will be made of glass. And the next “Some of them will come to me and say for your soul.” the m- on- nd Right: Eddie typically spends two to three weeks on a diorama, and up to two months when he so works on a few projects at the same time. ned ed. Below: Most of Eddie’s works are commissioned from America, Europe, and the Middle East. EP 20 FRIDAY AUGUST 24, 2018 • THEEDGE FINANCIAL DAILY FRI

Top spots for enjoying FIREWORKS in the Klang Valley

PICTURES BY LOW YEN YEING | EdgeProp.my

BY RACHEL CHEW Be there early nd the oing “ooh”, to fi “aah” and best spot with “wow” over an unblocked a fireworks view. display with Little Genting, family and Ampang Gfriends is part of the fun of Located at an unnamed junction public celebrations. Simi- between Jalan Hulu Langat and larly, the upcoming Malay- 1Jalan Mulia 2/1, Ampang Lookout Point, sia National Day celebration also known as Little Genting, has an ideal is expected to dazzle with vantage point for a view of the KL skyline. flashes and bangs. Although the Ampang Lookout Point was High-rise residents with closed in 2012, visitors have not been de- views that overlook the Kua- terred, and still frequent the place for its la Lumpur skyline, especial- spectacular KL night view. ly those with a view of the Just down the road from Ampang Look- Petronas Twin Towers in out Point, are a few roadside mamak stalls. KLCC, a regular backdrop Here you’ll fi nd the next-best spot to feast for massive fi reworks dis- your eyes on the vista. plays during events, will probably get to enjoy the spectacle without having to brave the trip downtown. During huge national cele- brations, numerous main For an unblocked KL roads in the city tend to be skyline view, away from closed and public transport the stalls, consider is expected to be crowded. parking your car at the Of course, renting a ho- shoplots, and then walk tel room with the city view Jalan about 350m towards the is another option, but only entrance of the Bukit if you are willing to pay the Taman Saga, premium imposed during Ampang Jaya Saga hiking trail. the holiday period. But do not give up so You don’t have to hike up soon. EdgeProp.my has 2Bukit Saga for the KL night view. You found fi ve spots within the can just visit one of the stalls along Jalan Klang Valley and Greater KL Taman Saga for some teh tarik and a bite that will allow you to cele- while you enjoy the fi reworks show. brate in view of the stunning True, you may not get the full KL pan- fi reworks this National Day orama from this point compared to Little or New Year’s Eve. You won’t Genting. However, it will not be as crowd- even have to burn a hole in ed, since this spot is still a well-kept se- your pocket or get yourself cret of the Taman Saga neighbourhood. squished in the crowd. FRIDAY AUGUST 24, 2018 • THEEDGE FINANCIAL DAILY EP 21

Asean Sculpture Garden, Kuala Lumpur Located next to the National The best spot to catch 3Monument in KL, the Asean Sculpture Gar- the KL Tower and den is a landscaped garden with a collec- tion of prize-winning sculptures in wood, Petronas Twin Towers’ marble, iron, and bamboo, made by artists lighted off erings is from from the Asean region. Th e offi cial website the garden near the states that it is open 24 hours. main lake.

View the KL skyline and its refl ection from the central lake. Titiwangsa Lake Gardens, Kuala Lumpur Titiwangsa Lake Gardens is one 4of the biggest green lungs within KL. Th e park spreads across an area of 95 hectares with a 57ha lake. It’s the ideal spot for a stroll after dinner, as you wait for the clock to strike 12 on the eve of Aug 31. Th en, you can marvel at the sparkling colours and splendour of the fi re- works shows. According to the Titiwangsa Lake Gar- Bukit Mewah, dens offi cial website, it is a 24-hour park. Kajang Bukit Mewah is one of the oldest high-end residential 5areas in Kajang. It is also on high ground in Kajang. Th e Mewah Club at Bukit Mewah features a cafe that is open to the public. Visitors can easily enjoy the KL horizon from the restaurant or open air carpark of the club. According to its website, the cafe is open until 1am every day. It is a popular spot for fi reworks watching on New Year’s Eve, but if you are looking for a closer view of KLCC, this may not be the ideal spot. The best spot to catch a glimpse of KLCC fi reworks is from the free public carpark of The Mewah Club. EP 22 FRIDAY AUGUST 24, 2018 • THEEDGE FINANCIAL DAILY FRI PATRIOTIC

CHU JUCK SENG | THE EDGE PICTURES BY LOW YEN YEING urals and street art are all the rage 1 in the country right now and no wonder, as the often atten- tion-grabbing and thought-pro- voking renditions hold a certain charm that passers-by and in- Mtentional visitors can’t help but admire. They bring vibrancy to an otherwise ordinary place, filling it with feelings and musings. In conjunction with our National Day, why not rouse your patriotic spirit by going on a mu- ral art trail? For instance, down south in Johor Bahru, among the pre-war shop houses, there are a few art works with a patriotic theme including the iconic “Tana- hairku” piece on the side of a pre-war shophouse along Jalan Ibrahim while another piece on Jalan Trus symbolises the three main ethnic groups in Malaysia. In the Klang Valley, one could fi nd interesting street art fi lled with a sense of national pride and which celebrates our diversity in major towns such as Petaling Jaya’s SS2, PJ New Town, and Shah Alam. Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL) is also giving makeovers to some of the backlanes of the aged streets in the city with street art and one can bask in the glory of their transformation, such as Jalan Alor, Jalan Tong Shin, Tengkat Tong Shin and Changkat 4 Bukit Bintang.

1. Street art in Johor Bahru shows a nation 2 living in harmony 5 with each other and with the environment.

2. A street art in SS2, Petaling Jaya called “Under one roof” representing the various ethnic groups in Malaysia.

3. The country’s multi- racial society is symbolised in this mural in Jalan Trus, Johor Bahru.

4. The “Tanahairku” mural along Johor Bahru’s Jalan Ibrahim.

5. A mural seen at Laman Seni 7 in 3 Seksyen 7, Shah Alam made from recycled materials. CHU JUCK SENG | THE EDGE FRIDAY AUGUST 24, 2018 • THEEDGE FINANCIAL DAILY EP 23

Klang Valley folk could also take the below short ride-and-stroll in KL downtown to celebrate the spirit of muhibbah and our love for the nation. CHU JUCK SENG | THE EDGE

Start by hopping onto the Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) line to the symbolical- ly-named Merdeka MRT 1station. At the concourse area of the station, you will be greeted by a massive black-and-white photo- graph of the Malaysian fl ag with our fi rst prime minister, the late Tunku Abdul Rahman, in the fore- ground declaring the nation’s in- dependence on that historic day of Aug 31, 1957. Etched on another wall are excerpts from the Five Rukun Negara principles that every Malaysian should profess.

Next, move on to the Pasar Seni MRT Station and scrutinise the riveting black-and-white scene of Petaling Street on the station’s wall while riding the escalator. After that, take a 2walk along the atmospheric Petaling Street where one can go on a mural art trail.

Be there at dusk and end your walk with a visit to the Riv- er of Life components of the Klang River. Th e River of Life bridge located right behind Masjid Jamek mosque is pos- sibly the best spot to catch the fascinating light-and-wa- 3ter show held every night. From the bridge, one could also admire the LED-lighted fl ag that adorns the facade of the DBKL building during this season.