EAST ’S LEADING PROPERTY PORTAL, MAGAZINE & EXPO

FEATURED PROPERTY KINGFISHER The Address @ Inanam’s Showroom Is Now Open For Public Viewing

Pacificity: Everything A Modern Office Needs Under One Roof | Gamuda Land : Sales Gallery Of Bukit Bantayan Residences Now Available | PH Expo : Marking The Second Expo Of The Year | First PPA1M Project In IKEA, Always In Fashion | High Tech, Fifth-Gen Must Haves

HOT TOPIC DRIVE HOT TOPIC Making Commercial Around the world It’s Never Too Early To Property Investment with a Mercedes-Benz Start: How To Teach Your Next Financial G-Class : An expedition Your Kids About Future for the 21st century Property Investment

Wishing You All A HAPPY MOTHER’S DAY & HAPPY HARVEST FESTIVAL 2016

MOTHER’S DAY HOT TOPIC FEATURED HOT TOPIC 5 Reasons To Invest In INTERVIEW My View On Australian Property Mum’s The Word MyDeposit Scheme

ISSUE 78 RM9.50 (Inc GST) www.PropertyHunter.com.my 1 2 www.PropertyHunter.com.my www.PropertyHunter.com.my 3 4 www.PropertyHunter.com.my www.PropertyHunter.com.my 5 6 www.PropertyHunter.com.my www.PropertyHunter.com.my 7 8 www.PropertyHunter.com.my www.PropertyHunter.com.my 9 CORPORATE TM

Editor Iza Abidin CONTENTS

Writer Rebecca Michelle Siaw property SHOWCASE | 12 KINGFISHER INANAM The Address @ Inanam’s Showroom is now open for public viewing Creative & Design Stephenson Foo property SHOWCASE | 18 PACIFICITY Pua Yu Bee Everything a modern office needs under one roof Property Hunter is published by: Online & IT Maxx Media (S) Sdn Bhd (1043783-T) FIRST PPA1M PROJECT IN SABAH Caleb Tseu Lot 4, 1st & 2nd Floor, Block A, Heritage Plaza, fEATURED event | 24 Clifton Chin Jalan Lintas, 88300 , Sabah, Malaysia fEATURED event | 28 GAMUDA LAND Finance & Operation Elson Kho Office Hours: MUM’S THE WORD: Special interview with mothers in property 9:00am – 6:00pm (Monday – Friday) MOTHER’S DAY FEATURED INTERVIEW | 30 Marketing & Branding E: [email protected] Magdelene Muh T: +6088 719 787 SPECIAL event | 36 PH EXPO SANDAKAN F: +6088 728 387 Marking The Second Expo Of The Year Marketing Events Debbie Eva Denis Printing IT’S NEVER TOO EARLY TO START Percetakan Kolombong Ria Sdn Bhd HOT TOPIC | 42 Circulation & Subscription Lot 3A & 5, Mile 5 1/2, Road, Neutron How To Teach Your Kids About Property Investment Albee Chung Park, 88450 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia T: +60 88-426 691 hot topic | 50 5 REASONS TO INVEST IN AUSTRALIAN PROPERTY Administration & Accounts Jerace Lee Available monthly at leading Azizan Azim Bin Awg Ali bookstores and newsstands in Sabah LIFESTYLE | 56 DRIVE & Around the world with a Mercedes-Benz G-Class Advertising Enquiries Poh Khay Inn • Orange 24 hours FURNISH (Manager, Media Planning) • Everise Supermarket IKEA, Always In Fashion T: +6013 865 6898 • Lintas Superstore E: [email protected] • City Grocer • Pick N Pay WATCH & GADGETS Alby Idang • WH Smith Fifth-Gen and must haves (Senior Executive, Media Planning) • SMART Bookshop T: +6013 865 2898 • City Gourmet hot topic | 70 MAKING COMMERCIAL PROPERTY INVESTMENT YOUR NEXT E: [email protected] • Tong Hing Supermarket FINANCIAL FUTURE Mazliana Mat Saidi (Senior Executive, Media Planning) hot topic | 74 THE NEW MYDEPOSIT SCHEME: What to know T: +6013 881 7898 in Sa d in S Fores de ba te ab le try a h in a b P M r h i r E: [email protected] P s a n c • Malaysian’s Overseas Preference: Australia, Singapore, o t COFFEE TALK | 78 i p c

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e s Events Enquiries R Indonesia and the UK Victor Yong • The property market is definitely not HOT in transactions, ok? (Manager, Events) T: +6013 835 1898 Printed on environmentally responsible paper from E: [email protected] imported high quality grade woodfree recycled paper in a Sabah based facility. Italia Nayenti Boniface (Senior Executive, Events) Supporting Local Talents & Businesses. T: +6013 852 2898 E : [email protected]

PropertyHunterMalaysia PropertyHunter Propertyhunt3r

Disclaimer, Permission & Reprints: This publication is not an investment advice. It is intended only to inform and illustrate. No reader should act on the basis of any matter contained in this publication without first seeking appropriate professional advice that takes into account their own particular circumstances.The publisher and editors give no representations and make no warranties, express, or implied, with responsibility of any of the material (including statistics, maps, articles, loan product tables, advertisements and advertising features) contained in this publication. The publisher and editors expressedly disclaim all responsibility for any errors in or omissions from the information contained in this publication, including all liability for any loss or damage suffered or incurred by any person as a result of or arising out of that person placing any reliance, weather whole or partial, upon the whole or any part of the contains of this publication. No correspondents will be entered into a relation to this publication by the publishers, editors or authors. The publishers do not endorse any company, organisation, person, investment strategy or technique mentioned in this publication unless expressly stated otherwise. The publishers do not endorse any advertisements or any special advertising features in this publication, nor does the publisher endorse any advertiser(s) or their products / services unless expressly stated to the contrary. Articles are published in the reliance upon the representations and warranties of the authors of the articles and without our knowledge of any infringement of any third party’s copyright. The publishers and editors do not authorise, sanction, approve or countenance any copyright infringement. This publication is protected under the Law of Malaysia Act 332 Copyrights Act 1987 and may not, in whole or part, be lent, copied, photocopied, reproduced, translated or reduced to any electronic medium or machine-readable format without the express written permission of the publisher. Copyrights 2013 Maxx Media (S) Sdn Bhd. All rights reserved.

10 www.PropertyHunter.com.my www.PropertyHunter.com.my 11 3 4

PROPERTY SHOWCASE Kingfisher 5 6 At the Grand Launching of Kingfisher Inanam on 6th March, Chief Operating Officer, Mr. John Tan said that Hap Seng promises buyers value for money properties, thanks to its Inanam group synergy. The Address @ Inanam’s Showroom According to Mr. Tan, “Hap Seng owns their own quarry and trading company that supplies building materials. On top is now open for public viewing of that, Hap Seng also owns a credit company that grants mortgage loans.” Development By Hap Seng Development Sdn Bhd

Good news for real estate buyers and keen investors, the Kingfisher “Hap Seng has promised the Ministry of Local Government and Housing to build more than 1,000 units of affordable homes Inanam showroom by Hap Seng Properties Development Sdn Bhd is that caters to the lower to middle-income groups in Sabah,” said now open for public viewing! Mr. Tan, adding that Hap Seng has become a trusted household 7 name in property development that has also penetrated the Klang Valley market.

Since Kingfisher Inanam’s preview at SHAREDA Propex 2015, the first of three blocks are almost sold out despite the softening market. Such success shows the confidence of buyers in the development with the correct formula.

1. Hap Seng Sales Team 6. Datuk Seri Panglima Hj Hajiji Hj 2. Launching gambit of Kingfisher Noor delivering speech Inanam 7. Datuk Asrie Kadir, Datuk Seri 3. Kingfisher Inanam Sales Gallery Panglima Hj Hajiji and Mr John 4. Master bedroom (Type B) Tan sharing a light moment 5. Living area (Typa A) 8. Nicole Lai, among the entertainers that evening

www.PropertyHunter.com.my www.PropertyHunter.com.my 13 12 1 2 8 PROPERTY SHOWCASE

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Sabah’s Own Homegrown Developer throw away from the Inanam Commercial the development (refer map), adding multiple Hap Seng is one of the most successful Centre and wet market, providing its future accessibility to the site. conglomerates in Sabah, with diversified residents a tranquil environment as well as businesses ranging from property, plantations, conveniences. Hap Seng has also made efforts to widen the quarry and building materials, trading, junction which turns in to Kingfisher Inanam automotive and credit. For over 50 years, The three blocks of condominium are built on to ease the traffic flow and added streetlights Hap Seng has built more than 10,000 units of a solid, flat ground. In wake of the earthquake, to brighten the area. homes throughout Sabah and currently has a Hap Seng has taken a precautionary step strong presence in Klang Valley. ahead to ensure its future residents’ safety State-Of-The-Art Facilities 5 6 7 is of utmost importance. The seismic design As icing on the cake, Kingfisher Inanam is Kingfisher Inanam is the third installation of of the Kingfisher Inanam takes into account also equipped with state-of-the-art facilities 1. Artist impression of Kingfisher Inanam 5. Artist impression of Skypark 2. Kitchen 6. Living room (Type B) the Kingfisher brand after Kingfisher II and the potential seismic forces, in order for it to with nearly two acres (85,000 sqft) of Affordable Pricing 3. Bedroom 7. Awards Kingfisher Sulaman. In addition to providing respond appropriately to the risks and threats dedicated Skypark (Level 5) which houses the With a great location and extensive facilities, 4. Location map high-quality and secure homes for individuals posed by natural hazards to the building and clubhouse, swimming pool, barbecue area, Kingfisher Inanam comes at an affordable price and families, the Kingfisher units have also its occupants. as well as a basketball and badminton court from RM380,000* onwards. It is a great investment proven themselves as great investments, as for recreational activities. At the same time, opportunity and perfect for growing families. The buyers’ investments have experienced a high Infrastructure Support residents will also be rewarded with fresh popular condominium appeals to many first time rate of appreciation even prior to the price Jalan Kiansom and Jalan Tuaran are known air and a view of green rolling hills in the home buyers between the ages of 25-44. Currently, hike in recent years. for their busy traffic at peak hours. This backdrop. Hap Seng is offering a low down payment sales issue however will be alleviated once the package with complimentary kitchen cabinets under Solid Ground, Seismic Design construction of the flyover between Jalan Hap Seng is also putting great emphasis on its Early Bird Scheme. Reserve your units today! This Hap Seng places great emphasis on the Lintas and Jalan Tuaran-by-Pass is completed the landscaping with resort-like retreats as a offer is limited to the first 100 customers only.* building location for its projects. The as it will ease the traffic flow. This effort from concept. There will be a 450m jogging path For more info: location of Kingfisher Inanam is perfect for the government certainly would benefit the with gazebos, water features and sitting areas Waze “Kingfisher Inanam” to visit the showroom a residential area as it is situated away from population of Inanam and its surrounding for its residents to relax and socialize. +6088-355 833 located at Jalan Kitobu (off Jalan Kiansom), Inanam. It is www.hapsengland.com the main road, therefore, minimizing noise areas. Furthermore, the recently launched open daily from 9am to 5pm. Show units are available and air pollution. However, it is only a stone’s Pan Borneo Highway is proposed very close to in 865 sqft and 1,160 sqft.

14 www.PropertyHunter.com.my www.PropertyHunter.com.my 15 PROPERTY SHOWCASE

16 www.PropertyHunter.com.my www.PropertyHunter.com.my 17 PROPERTY SHOWCASE

Pacific Enterprise - Workstation PacifiCity Everything a modern office needs under one roof

How a visionary property developer is on course to revolutionise and redefine the landscape of sustainable property development in Kota Kinabalu.

Development By Pacific Sanctuary Holdings Sdn. Bhd.

Rooftop Executive Lounge

18 www.PropertyHunter.com.my www.PropertyHunter.com.mySignature Open Plan Offices 19 PROPERTY SHOWCASE PACIFICITY AT A GLANCE

Property Type Address : Jalan Istiadat, 88400 • Integrated Mixed-Use Development Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia. • 204 Furnished Residences Land Area : 18.5 acres Land Tenure : 99-year Leasehold • 650,000 sq.ft. of Retail • 150,000 sq.ft. of Offices • 1000+ Hotel Rooms (International 5, 4 & 3-star brands)

Business Hotel by Shangri-La at PacifiCity

Hotel Jen’s facilities & Business center OFFICES AT PACIFICITY

Property Name : Pacific Enterprise Facilities & Amenities abah is a powerful communities, with major In Kota Kinabalu, integrated Every business need is just an Property Type : Office Suites • Signature Office Lobbies, staffed with security concierge during economic engine. Over investments namely in office complexes that can meet elevator ride away; banks and Total Area : 150,000 sq.ft. office hours the last decade, the ‘Land infrastructure, business hotels, the demands and standards of courier services, restaurants and Office Size Range : 660 – 7,717 sq.ft. • Privileged access to Executive Lounge & Conference Suites Beneath the Wind’ has conference facilities, public modern business are few and far cafes to entertain clients and a Price Range : From RM480,000 onwards • 2,300 Secure Covered Car Parks in phase 1 (a further 2,700 in Sexperienced tremendous growth transport and human capital between and none other in such variety of business hotels to suit Total Units : 56 units across 4 integrated towers phase 2) fueled by three core sectors: development. a prime and convenient location all corporate budgets. Maintenance Fee : RM0.50 per sq.ft per month • Free Parking for first 5-years (limited to 1 car per 1,000 sq.ft. of tourism, agriculture and oil & gas. than PacifiCity, located in Bay. (including Sinking Fund) Office) These businesses are attracted by Businesses located at PacifiCity will Expected Completion : 2017 • Season Parking Rates Available With ongoing government the convenience, well-connected PacifiCity is an upcoming mixed- also have privileged access to their • Hotel Jen (Business hotel by Shangri-La) investments in infrastructure and central location Kota use development comprising of own roof-top Conference Centre Specifications projects such as the Pan Borneo Kinabalu has to offer, perfect to • Minimum 2-tier security access residential, Lifestyle Shopping and Executive Lounge, saving Main Attractions, Public Transport & Amenities Nearby Highway and Sabah Port, more serve the BIMPEAGA and wider Mall, hotels and offices cleverly precious space. • 24-hour manned security industries are now set to bloom. ASEAN markets. Combined with combined into a 25-acre site, • Fiber-Optic voice and data lines • Integrated into PacifiCity – the offices are just an elevator ride away from Shopping, Dining, Banks, Postal Services, Entertainment & the high quality of life found in opposite the Sabah Trade Center. All offices at PacifiCity are • De-centralized split-unit air conditioning International Hotels Shipping and distribution will Sabah, many companies are now Located just 15 minutes from delivered in a move-in or rent-out • Units above 2,000 sq.ft. include private toilets soon thrive here, particularly given establishing regional offices in • Prime and Convenient Location; opposite , the and away from condition, complete with split • Delivered move-in ready Sabah’s convenient and strategic Kota Kinabalu. the congested city center, the unit air-conditioning, far more around the corner from Sabah International Convention Centre location between China and South integrated development will fulfill economical than centralized • 15 minutes from Kota Kinabalu International Airport East Asia. Improved logistics With the emergence of Sabahan the needs for any business to systems, allowing owners flexibility • Opposite future public transport interchange both regionally and internally businesses on the international thrive in one convenient location. to work long into the night. • Shuttle bus service to city-center will be a catalyst spurring growth stage and the growing presence in ancillary industries such as of multinational companies in Offices are available for sale or Any business owner know that manufacturing and production. Kota Kinabalu, there is increasing rent in handy sizes from 660sqft selecting the right office is crucial demand for a higher standard of up to 20,000 sqft. to ensuring their commercial Kota Kinabalu, the state capital offices, on par with those found in success. Offices at PacifiCity, and largest developed city in Singapore and Hong Kong. Careful considerations have been present all the amenities and Borneo, is set to transform, made to meet the demands of services required by modern Sales Gallery / Office Address becoming the commercial Businesses today demand modern businesses; there is businesses in one of the best Jalan Istiadat, 88400 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia. epicenter for the region’s integrated office complexes ample parking with 2,300 secure locations in KK. economic development. that provide convenience and covered bays, in phase 1, and a 088 - 237 555 offer on-site amenities and further 2,700 bays in Phase 2, www..com This nucleus city is welcoming services. multi-tier security and high-speed international business fiber-optic data connections.

20 www.PropertyHunter.com.my www.PropertyHunter.com.my 21 DISCLAIMER It has been brought to our attention that a publication by the title of “The Property.com” has been circulating in the market, containing articles and design layout which have been replicated directly from our Property Hunter Magazine issue 74.

We at Property Hunter do not support and highly condemn such act of plagiarism. As such, we are very concerned and have taken stringent measures by lodging a police report on 15th April 2016, and submitted the same to Bahagian Kawalan Penerbitan dan Teks Al- Quran of Kementerian Dalam Negeri Sabah.

The said publication is not legitimate and Property Hunter / Maxx Media (S) Sdn Bhd has no association whatsoever to the publication.

PROPERTY NEWS

PROPERTY, INVESTMENT & BANKING NEWS

Developers Urged to Take Appropriate Methods to Face Market Difficulties SB

KEEP TRACK OF THE TRENDS IN President of Sabah Housing and Real Estate conversion of title and issuance of developer’s PROPERTY AND REAL ESTATE Developers Association (SHAREDA) Datuk license also contributed to the cost hike in Francis Goh has urged the developers to property development. take appropriate strategies, innovative and corrective methods to overcome the stiff “It is always a wish of the developers to challenges and difficulties faced to rise the have a fast and efficient approval system SB Sabah SW Sarawak WM West Malaysia occasion for a continual and sustainable to reduce the unnecessary holding costs in development in Sabah. the development projects. If the duration to IN International BK Banking & Investment obtain the development order is shortened to “Challenges are often crated by new policies 1 6 months, it will put down the property prices inadvertently or perhaps wrongly set by of about 5%,” he said. “For example, the recommendation made authorities without fully understanding by Dewan Bandaraya Kota Kinabalu the implications and risks suffered by the “SHAREDA council will continue to play (DBKK) on implementing 0:12g or 12% stakeholders, if not consulted during the our role to highlight pertinent issue and PGA (Peak Ground Acceleration) to the planning stage,” said Goh. complement the government’s initiatives in new development projects around Kota providing housing accommodation and caring Kinabalu was issued based on the analyzed He said this in his foreword message in for the wellbeing of the people.” data obtained from the recent SHAREDA’s Property Development Annual earthquake last year, but SHAREDA opined Report and Market Outlook for year 2015 “Hence, we hope that the government will that this recommendation is mandatory to which was revealed during SHAREDA Annual review its focus on vibrant industries that comply in high risk area such as Ranau and General Meeting held last Saturday (March could support and uplift the overall economy , while in low risk area such as 27). vibrancy such as housing and real estate in KK, a standard rate 0:05G PGA should be development industry amongst other key permissible,” he explained. “I humbly opined that it is vital sectors,” he concluded. and pertinent to obtain consensus “For adopting this safety measure, it would from the professional bodies and eventually push the building costs to go up and ultimately will affect the developers for stakeholders like SHAREDA, Sabah causing the housing price hike,” he said. Builders Association and related groups before implementation,” Goh also stated that the long delay in 1. Shareda Council Members pose with the newly he continued. obtaining the approval of building plan, published Property Development Annual Report

22 www.PropertyHunter.com.my www.PropertyHunter.com.my 23 FEATURED EVENT

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FEATURED EVENT According to President of Housing and now become an investment opportunity Wilson Loke, Puncak Gloxinia implemented Development Board (LPPB) of Sabah Datuk amongst the buyers, with the current price the tremor resistant technology and it Ahmad Bin Bujang, PPA1M is part of the doubled than the selling price,” he added. was planned way ahead before the recent First PPA1M Project government plan to assist civil servants in earthquake which occurred in Ranau last order to own their first home in Malaysia, “Under the PPA1M program, year. in Sabah focusing on the low to middle income the government has group. Launched by Chief Secretary to the Puncak Gloxinia Launched Its Show Units allocated a big budget to Government Tan Sri Ali Hamsa in 27 June Introduced in 2013, the program is fully enable the housing projects 2015, Puncak Gloxinia is expected to By Property Hunter controlled under the Prime Minister’s being sold 30% below the complete in 2018. Also present during the Department and the housing price is market price,” he explained. event was Assistant of Local Government The first 1Malaysia Civil Servant Housing (PPA1M) in Sabah – below the typical market price, exclusively and Housing Minister Datuk Haji Zakaria Puncak Gloxinia launched its show units on March 31. Located in to the civil servants. Puncak Gloxinia, according to Ahmad, Bin Haji Mohd Idris. South, the 6-tower condominium consists of 1,296 units is constructed under the method of with sizes ranging from 1,000 to 1,325 sq. ft. “Together with Landmark Property Sdn Industrial Building System (IBS) which Bhd (the developer), we (LPPB) are proud provides a faster completion date and has to introduce this wonderful opportunity to been utilized by Landmark Property in civil servants in Sabah,” he said during his their previous projects. speech. “Not only will it be faster, IBS method also 1. Datuk Ahmad Bujang (4th from left) together “Previously, we have also worked together helps to reduce construction wastage,” he with Dr. Gordon Loke (3rd left) and Wilson Loke in another affordable housing project explained. (1st right) and other dignitaries – Taman Wawasan in Beaufort. I have 2. Chief Secretary Tan Sri Hamsa together with members of the goverment and developer been informed that although the housing According to Director of Project officiating the launching ceremony was classified under low cost area, it has Department Landmark Property Mr. 3. Part of the crowd who attended the event

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24 www.PropertyHunter.com.my www.PropertyHunter.com.my 25 NEWS K.T.I Group Is Now Operating at Taman Nelly 9 Shoplot SB

On March 18, K.T. I Group organized an handing over to the respective government During the event, K.T.I Group showcased its office warming celebration at its new office bodies with total value of RM 368 Million. 2 future projects which are expected to be in Taman Nelly 9 Shoplot. The relocation launched next year – a mixed development took place on January 28, from its previous The new address of K.T.I Group is now in Tuaran and an urban re-development on address at Wisma LTF, Taman Nelly. described as Lot 221 & 222, Phase 4, Taman a prime area in Luyang. The group is also the Nelly 9 Shoplot. Lot 221 is an intermediate developer for the first housing project for civil In view of its expansion and the motivation to 2-storey shoplot, measuring at 2,328 sq.ft workers in Sabah, (PPA1M) Puncak Gloxinia is move forward, spokesperson of K.T.I Group whilst Lot 222 is a 5-storey corner shoplot, expected to complete in 2018. described that the relocation is needed to measuring 13, 569 sq.ft. provide a more spacious and comfortable working environment as it is much required Guests who were present during the event to cater its growing employees. include Maybank Managing Director of Business Banking Y.Bhg Datuk K.T.I. Group had its humble beginning as a Henry Goh, Director and CEO of Sedafiat property developer in 1984. During 1996, Sdn Bhd Y.Bhg Datuk Awang Buhtamam Bin the company has undertaken a number of Hj. Mahmun, Consultant Clinical Oncologist Government Turnkey Projects, project that of KPJ Sabah Specialist Hospital Y.Bhg Datuk involves completing, designing, building, Dr. Jaswant Singh, fellow bankers, solicitors, financing and upon satisfactory completion, consultants and contractors. 1

Slowing Property Market May Expose Risk of Malaysia’s High Consumer Debt WM Malaysia’s easing property sector Putrajaya also recently noted that real estate could turn the country’s household investments had dropped by 70 per cent.

debt — the highest in the region Slowing growth in the value of property used — into a risk to economic growth, for securitisation could limit consumers’ ability a Fitch Group subsidiary said to obtain additional credit, and has already on April 4 as reported by The shown its effect on consumer sentiment, which has worsened in recent years. MalayMail Online. 2 Consumer spending was previously the main In a report on the dangers of growing debt, which implies a low level of risk, with 49 driver of the country’s economy and helped corporate and consumer debt in the region, per cent of debt used to purchase residential Malaysia weather global economic slowdowns Business Monitor International Ltd (BMI) noted assets, we highlight that the risk of a softer such as the 2008 financial crisis. that Malaysia’s household debt rose sharply housing market could weigh on consumers’ since 2008 and now amounted to 89 per cent balance sheets, particularly given the weaker Since then, exports have taken over as the as a ratio of the country’s GDP, an increase of currency and the implementation of the goods main contributor to the GDP, although the 25 percentage points. & service tax of 6.0 per cent in 2015,” BMI said manufacturing sector’s performance remains in its report. volatile. According to BMI’s data, mortgages remained the prime contributor to Malaysians’ debt over Property prices in Malaysia have stagnated Bank Negara Malaysia reiterated this month the past five years, even as consumers cut due to the recent economic slowdown as well that Malaysia is set to meet its targeted annual back of borrowing for other expenditure. as increasing supply of both residential and growth of between 4.0 and 4.5 per cent, down commercial space. from 5.0 per cent last year, although analysts “Although the value of assets of households predict that expansion will be at the lower end in Malaysia is two to three times the size of of the estimate.

Kuala Lumpur Hotel Sold for RM414mil WM London-listed property developer Aseana Properties, a property developer focused on Properties Ltd announced Wednesday (30 Malaysia and Vietnam. March) that it sold the Aloft Kuala Lumpur Sentral Hotel to Prosper Group Holdings Ltd for “This transaction also highlights the strength of US$104.6 million (RM414.11 million), reported our company in developing highly sought after Property Guru. real estate investment assets. The company remains fully committed to returning capital Situated in Kuala Lumpur Sentral, the property to shareholders and will work closely with its managed by Starwood Asia Pacific Hotels & lenders to enable distributions to be made at 3 Resorts comes with 482 beds. the earliest possible opportunity,” he added. 1. CEO of K.T.I Group Dr. Gordon Loke introducing the new upcoming project to the “The disposal of the Aloft Hotel is a significant The sale is expected to be completed in Q3 guests. milestone in our divestment strategy,” said Dato 2016. 2. Housing area in Kuala Lumpur Mohammed Azlan Hashim, Chairman of Aseana 3. Aloft Kuala Lumpur Sentral Hotel

26 www.PropertyHunter.com.my www.PropertyHunter.com.my 27 1 2

ocated 12km away from the city During the event, Gamuda Land has centre, the development is inspired introduced the “Paling Menang Easy by a unique highland retreat Payment Scheme” for the early birds. concept. L The scheme has been included in the FEATURED EVENT The development spans over 18 acres on sales of units to help ease the burden of a hilltop, overlooking a breath-taking and potential home buyers, predominantly the invigorating view of its surroundings. early birds.

GAMUDA LAND Bukit Bantayan Residences consists of Amongst the activities present at the show 1,500 apartment units and 30 shops unit opening were the appearance from 3 Sales Gallery of Bukit Bantayan Residences Now Available spread across 5 apartment towers, 3 Hitz.FM Cruisers who were giving away residential parcels and 1 commercial free gifts through a series of mini games to Gamuda Land has opened their new sales gallery for viewing of their parcel. the visitors, children creative face painting latest residential project – Bukit Bantayan Residences on April 8th. by Carol Makeup, and a 3-piece jazz band The unit sizes range from 904 to 1,100 serving delightful jazz entertainment sq. ft and price per unit starts from RM throughout the day. By Property Hunter 397,800 onwards.

According to the group’s Business Development General Manager Simon Phang, the project is designed to cater to the different needs of each home owner.

The new residential development offers 4 a handful of conveniences within easy reach from child care services to open amphitheatre.

The project has also adopted the seismic design to add resistance from the earthquake, and is believed to be able to withstand up to 7 Ritcher scale magnitude.

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1. Internal view of the show units 2. Internal view of the show units 3. Internal view of the show units 4. Bukit Bantayan Residence’s development site 5. Scale model of the Bukit Bantayan Residences

28 www.PropertyHunter.com.my www.PropertyHunter.com.my 29 MOTHER’S DAY FEATURED INTERVIEW

Mum’s the Word

They say that women with successful careers that are also mothers seem to ‘have it all’. While this notion may seem true on the surface, it’s actually not that easy trying to balance work and raising kids, as we found out. We took three women out of their busy schedules to unwind and chat with us over lunch prepared specially by Favola at the Le Meridien.

Article by Property Hunter Photos by Louis Pang Photography Venue & Lunch by Favola @ Le Meridien KK

30 www.PropertyHunter.com.my www.PropertyHunter.com.my 31 FEATURED INTERVIEW

BETWEEN WORK AND FAMILY

Carol: They’re both equally important. Of course, my weekdays are spent at the office, but once at home, I give my undivided attention to my kids as they’re extra sensitive with the time that I spend with them. We have a Whatsapp family group chat, so despite my hectic schedule, I still make sure that their needs are met.

Kelly: When children are much younger, a mother’s life is undoubtedly more restless because you constantly need to attend to all aspects of their growing lives. Now that they’re older, daily routines are much more manageable and easier to plan. But as work goes, the scopes and responsibilities keep increasing and business decisions need to be made immediately, so now I think my job is much more harder than being a mother.

Jen: Both are equally hard and sometimes I’m being pulled in both directions. For instance, on one hand I need to prioritise work, especially when I have to prepare for important board meetings, and on the other, I need to prioritise and make time for my children especially when they are sick and require more attention. I try my best to balance both.

SPENDING TIME WITH THE KIDS

Carol: On weekdays, my husband and I are very busy people and things can happen impromptu with work while the kids are busy with their schoolwork. But when it comes to weekends, I always prioritise my time for the kids, so we always set it aside for family time.

Kelly: Despite being hard-pressed for time, I always ensure that I am involved with their studies and wellbeing and with all the things that come Oh, did we mention that these women are also prominent along with them growing up. No matter what, we must always accord some ladies in the property industry here in Sabah? Kelly Lioo priority and quality time in sharing and mentoring our children, especially of Azmi & Co., Caroline Yong of Hap Seng and Jen Kah when they are in their teenage years. of Sina Land spend one girly afternoon being wined and dined while sharing with us how they manage their hectic daily lives as working mothers while still managing to look classy at the same time. No matter what, we must always accord some priority and quality MORNING ROUTINE time in sharing and mentoring our children..“ - Kelly Carol: When I get up, I plan what to cook for the day. I prefer to cook the meals and the maid will do the rest of the housework. Jen: I made a clear list of things that I must do as a mother such as Kelly: I usually wake up at 5am, attend to my two daughters before they are sent to preparing their breakfast every morning since I’m not around for lunch their (secondary) school by their father. After breakfast, I will get myself settled down and dinner and so my mother handles those for me. Evenings at 7 to 9, and begin preparations for my daily work routines before leaving home at about 9 a.m. granted I don’t have important work to do, is solely time for my children where my phone will be on silent. We would read storybooks, do some Jen: Mornings are chaos! I wake up and make breakfast and prepare the children’s drawing or watch cartoons, and I would be with them until they fall asleep. Jen Kah lunch boxes, dress up, dress the kids, feed them, clean them and then I drop them off I also try my best to plan family outings every Sunday and even going Director of Sina Land at school and daycare, before making my way to the office. grocery shopping together counts. I draw a clear line between work time and family time. I work when I am at work and be fully there as a mum when I’m at home.

32 www.PropertyHunter.com.my www.PropertyHunter.com.my 33 WATCHFEATURED PROPERTYINTERVIEW

THEIR KIDS ON ADVICE FOR WORKING PROPERTY INVESTMENT WOMEN LOOKING TO Carol: Honestly, they’re not really in the know about it. They’re still START A FAMILY sheltered from that trade. But one thing for sure is that they know that mom is in the business of selling properties. They don’t know much about Carol: As long as you know what your priorities are and how to manage buying and selling (property), but sometimes they do ask me general your time, having a career and being a mother is always something that questions. They know mom is an expert in the business! I endorse because it gives us women our own financial independence and builds our self-respect and confidence. Kids today take pride in their Kelly: Honestly, they have been growing up listening to my business working mothers so you also become someone that they look up to and dealings with clients and they have followed me to property sites and that in turn builds their self-respect and confidence. various functions and exhibitions to be exposed first hand. So I presume they already know the basics. But of course, I will continue to impart more investing knowledge on them whenever I can.

Jen: I would tell them that risk management is very important. Do not be driven by their emotions, lucrative offers in their inbox or chasing the latest “hot spot”. Also to ensure that they have sufficient financial buffers These are the two things that matter: to see them through the ups and downs of property investing. And to I know why I am working and my have an exit strategy in place for poor performing investments. children “know I love them - Jen

Kelly: First and foremost, your baby always comes first as you are responsible for his or her coming into this world. Have enough rest and learn to have peace of mind, make adjustments in your work schedules ...sometimes they do ask me general or routines for the sake of your baby. questions (on property investment). Jen: Don’t try to be superwoman. They say ‘women can have it all’, They know mom is an expert in the but in reality, I think it will be very exhausting and stressful to manage business!“ - Caroline everything by yourself. Whenever I can, I get help from my husband, my parents, the in-laws. Don’t be too hard on yourself! And most important of all, avoid reading pointless news stories based on the ‘latest research’ and blaming working mothers for damaging their child’s health and MANAGING STRESS intelligence. These are the two things that matter: I know why I am working and my children know I love them. Carol: When I’m stressed, I won’t tell my family. The reason being is that I don’t want to burden or release my problems on them. But usually, the kids would know because when I’m stressed, I would turn to TV. I have my little corner to watch television quietly. That’s how they know not to Food menu is offered exclusively for the month disturb me. of May at Favola @ Le Meridien KK

Kelly: Undeniably, work stress is a norm and part and partial of the life of a real estate negotiator. It is not easy to manage, especially for this Starter customer-demanding and emotionally challenging profession and I am Antipasto Misto still trying to learn to manage this work-related stress more effectively. Tomato mozzarella, beef bresaola, But my favourite stress reliever is going to the spa for massages. grilled prawn and Caesar salad

Jen: Taking a brief “stress break” is often enough for me to decompress Main Course or just to get a new perspective. Sometimes stress is unavoidable, but I Mixed Grilled Platter would get away for just a few minutes to feel less overwhelmed so that Lamb noisettes, grouper fillet, I can think clearly. I also count my blessings each night before going to beef tenderloin, green peas puree, sleep. I would think about little things like my baby’s magical smile while asparagus, pumpkin and sweet potato Caroline Yong he’s sleeping, having had a good laugh with colleagues or completing a Kelly Lioo Deputy General Manager - task successfully at work. It fixes me up and I would feel positive again the Dessert Property Negotiator Sales and Marketing (Sabah) for Azmi & Co. next day. Capsicum and Raspberry Sorbet

*This food menu is offered exclusively for the month of May at Favola, Le Meridien, KK.

34 www.PropertyHunter.com.my www.PropertyHunter.com.my 35 SPECIAL EVENT 1

Expo Sandakan received a remarkable response with over 1,000 people visiting the expo. The 3-day event, which took place on April 15 – 17, saw over 30 developers participating to feature PH EXPO SANDAKAN over 40 projects. MARKING THE SECOND EXPO OF THE YEAR The event proved to be successful, with a 47 percent Next stop, . increase in sales unit this year. Despite the cautious housing market today, the buying power for property With the successful kick-start to the PH Expo in Kota Kinabalu investment is still strong amongst the people. The in March, the Property Hunter team continues to spread its enthusiasm of the investors indicates that the property wings and returns to Sandakan for the 4th consecutive year. market will gradually recover itself. This pit stop marks the second expo of our yearly tour. The team plans to continue spreading the word of property investment throughout ; introducing new project developments along the way. 2016 alone will see a rise in By Property Hunter commercial and residential properties and a huge major player in the hotel industry.

PH Expo will see its third event at the Fajar Club, Tawau this month on 13th- 15th May. For more information about the expo and forthcoming expo destinations, please visit the PH Facebook Page and website at www.propertyhunter.com.my

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36 www.PropertyHunter.com.my www.PropertyHunter.com.my 37 SPECIAL EVENT

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Previous Page Current Page 1. Potential investors show their interest at the expo 4. The crowd just keeps on coming! 2. Wah Mie Group’s custom built booth 5. A potential investor at Kueen Lai 3. Passionate investors show their interest 6. Blu waterfront Development showcasing The Shore at the Expo 7. Sales representatives enlighten people with their project

38 www.PropertyHunter.com.my www.PropertyHunter.com.my 39 NEWS Malaysia’s Long-Term Economic Outlook Remains Bright: Moody’s BK

This was said by Moody’s Investors Service “Like Oman and Peru, Malaysia benefited even though it downgraded the country’s from the global commodities boom over the prospects from ‘positive’ to ‘stable’. last decade, with palm oil, liquefied natural gas, petroleum and associated products of “The change in outlook reflects the particular importance.” deterioration in Malaysia’s growth and external credit metrics due to external pressures But when commodity prices slumped, the over the past year, such as lower commodity Southeast Asian nation was much more 1 prices,” it explained. resilient compared to the aforementioned The long-term economic outlook of Malaysia countries due to its diversification. remains bright thanks to its vast natural This lower commodity prices negatively resources, well-developed infrastructure, a affected the government’s revenue, which As such, Malaysia’s real gross development globally competitive services sector and a in turn led to falling reserves, larger capital product (GDP) is expected to grow at an manufacturing base that would benefit from outflows, lower account surplus and a decline average rate of 4.7 percent in 2015 and 2016, its widening trade linkages, reported Property in the ringgit’s value. which is slightly lower than the average growth Guru Malaysia. rate of 4.8 percent from 2001 to 2013.

Property Sector to Reach Inflection Point Soon BK

Affin Hwang Investment Bank Bhd’s Although consumer sentiment index has been this could almost be the bottom, as historically, research arm analysts (Affin Hwang on the downtrend, the analysts believe this over the past 10 years, the industry has only may has reach near bottom. suffered at most, four quarters of negative Research) believe the property growth,” opined Affin Hwang Research. sector may reach an inflection Malaysia’s young population is also supportive point soon, premised on sustained of the sector in the medium to long term. In 4Q15, the residential housing starts fell economic data and coupled with substantially to circa 34,000 units which may “After three quarters of contraction in the suggests that property developers are delaying strong balance sheet position, number of properties transacted, we believe launches and this may cap new incoming reported The Borneo Post. supply, and hence minimising the risk of a prolonged oversupply. With an anticipated recovery of GDP in 2H16, rebound in private consumption in 4Q15, “We are positive on the property sector, as and coupled with positive economic data we believe the bottom is approaching and points including – all time high employment, that further downside risk to share prices is expansion in average wage, the research limited. Property sales will be supported by house analysts believe this will continue to healthy exisiting unbilled sales, as well as new sustain consumption. 2 launches.”

Property Sector to Reach Inflection Point Soon IN

China’s direct investments in Malaysia’s Khalid Abdul Samad (Amanah-Shah Alam). Ahmad said in 2015, although the number manufacturing sector amounted to RM13.6 dropped to a drastic RM1.87 billion, it was billion between 2009 and 2015, says Deputy Ahmad claims that out of the total, the still however, moderately high to reflect International Trade and Industry Minister basic metals industry received the highest Chinese investors’ confidence in the Malaysian Datuk Haji Ahmad Maslan, as reported in investments of RM8 billion followed by economy despite the current global economic . electrical and electronics sector at RM3.5 situation. billion and non-metallic minerals industry at He said the investments came from some RM738 million. 20 companies comprising of Comtec Solar International (M) Sdn Bhd, Jinko Solar Standing at RM556 million was the textiles and Technology Sdn Bhd, Kaifa Technology textile products industry and fabricated metals Malaysia Sdn Bhd, Megatrax Plastic Industries sector stood at RM157 million, according to Sdn Bhd and Mansion Machinery Sdn Bhd Ahmad Maslan. amongst others. “China’s investment in the country 3 “A major portion of the investments are increased steadily from a mere already being implemented, involving 143 projects and is expected to create 24,786 RM164 million in 2009 to RM4.75 jobs,” he said at the Dewan Rakyat in Kuala billion in 2014,” he said. 1. London Spring Place (Artist’s Impression) Lumpur on Monday, 4th April 2016, in reply to 2. Housing area in Kuala Lumpur 3. Datuk Haji Ahmad Maslan

40 www.PropertyHunter.com.my www.PropertyHunter.com.my 41 lthough most Asian parents are happy to accommodate their adult children (and their families) in their homes, educating children early on about the importance of saving up for their first home is a necessity. If it isn’t merely for the sole purpose of encouraging your children to ‘launch’, raising kids who are money savvy will go a long way to serve them as adults. Here are some simple ways to start:

HOT TOPIC

IT’S NEVER TOO EARLY TO START HOW TO TEACH YOUR KIDS ABOUT PROPERTY INVESTMENT

The escalating cost of living over the past few decades has made it 1. Train your kids to save harder and harder for individuals to own their own home. According Saving is an invaluable skill that needs to be integrated early in to a Genworth Australia research in 2011, the average age of first-time everyone’s life. With every penny they save from doing chores or getting homeowners has risen dramatically from 25 years old in the 1970s, to 31. good grades, teach them to make wise spending choices. For example, In 2015, the figure has reportedly shot up to 33 to 34 years of age – given explain to your children how long it will take for them to save up for a that the average age of people on their first jobs are 21 to 22 years old. pair of Nikes they want using the money they save up. This will put the value of money into perspective. By Property Hunter

2. Educate your kids about compounding interest

Compound interest is the core concept in understanding the importance of making an investment. A good way to illustrate this to your child may be to use physical tokens, such as coins, toys or candy. For example, you can give them four tokens, calling it the ‘principal’. Then say that after one year, you would give them an extra token for every two they still have. Describe this gain as ‘interest’. From here, you can give out ‘interest’ tokens and demonstrate how leaving the interest to accrue every year will have a snowball effect that results in greater gains over time, than if they decided to take it out and spend it. Learning this will help your kids understand the importance of delayed gratification as well.

42 www.PropertyHunter.com.my www.PropertyHunter.com.my 43 HOT TOPIC

3. Educate your kids about appreciating and depreciating assets

As your children grow into young adults who are earning their own money, they will soon be tempted to spend their money on flashy material things, such as sports cars and designer clothes instead of saving up to buy their first house or setting up an investment account. This is when you have to educate your children about the difference between appreciating and depreciating assets, as well as why they should start setting aside their income for their next stage in life. Most of all, you will have to be a living and breathing example for them to look up to.

4. Teach your kids about risk and rewards

There are different types of investments with varying levels of risk. Explaining the two primary types of financial investment to children is a good way to demonstrate the concept of risk versus reward. For example, bonds are bought when you lend money to the government or a company. This is generally considered low-risk but will yield you relatively low potential returns. Stocks or shares are portions of a company you can purchase. Unlike bonds, there isn’t really any guarantee you’ll even get your money back, but these types of investments are appealing due to the potential for high returns. The great thing about the relationship between risk and reward is that it applies not just to real estate investment, but in other areas of life as well.

5. Educate your kids on the importance of property investment

With property investment, you will not only earn income from the rent, but you can also make huge capital gains with the property that appreciates over time. This type of investment can also be easy for young kids to understand, as real estate is something you can touch, see and builds on the basic fundamentals of investing.

44 www.PropertyHunter.com.my www.PropertyHunter.com.my 45 NEWS UK Student Property Gains Popularity in Malaysia IN

The successful selling of London Spring Place as high as 8 per cent, superseding Malaysia. LSP units come furnished with a fully Phase 1 was a runaway success in Malaysia the meagre 4 per cent and 2.5 per equipped gym, cinema room, communal study – a sign that more Malaysians are seeing the and games rooms, onsite laundry, and high- viability and benefit of investigating in UK cent gross yields from residential speed WiFi in every room. student property, especially in light of the rental projects in Kuala Lumpur ringgit volatility and local and global economic and London, respectively,” said uncertainty, reported The Borneo Post. Virata, citing Felda’s investment

The statements were released during the in a student property in the UK in launching of the second phase of LSP project 2015 in a move to diversify assets. in Malaysia by Cornerstone International 1 Properties (CIP), following the sell-out launch of “We saw a sharp increase in our UK student Phase 1 in Malaysia last year. LSP is a purpose property sales numbers compared to The popularity of UK student property is built student accommodation in the UK. residential property in Malaysia. In 2015 alone, largely attributed to its strong performance, 73 per cent of our inventory sold to Malaysians the strongest performing asset class in the “Traditionally reserved for institutional was UK student property. Our top-selling UK since 2011, surpassing all other property investors, UK student property is now open to student property project, London Spring Place asset types, according to Knight Frank. The individual and private investors and has grown (Phase 1) which was extremely popular among risks are low as there is an acute undersupply in popularity in Malaysia,” said CIP Director Malaysian investors, sold out last year. of purpose built student accommodation in Virata Thaivasigamony. the UK. Default in rent is rare as a result of “In fact, CIP sold an impressive 80 student parental guarantee, thus investors are assured “We are firm believers in this units for the developer of London Spring Place of regular and timely rental returns. alone! We just launched Phase 2 last March investment type as it has proven and the take up rate has been extremely Malaysians investing in UK student property to be recession-proof and the positive.” are excused from capital gains tax in addition strongest performing asset class to relief from rental income tax. in the UK with annual nett yields CIP is the exclusive marketing agent for LSP in

International Economic Landscape Will Influence Local Economy - BNM SB

The international economic The event is part of BNM’s larger effort to give and financial landscape is likely back and provide value to its stakeholders at its regional offices in Sabah, Sarawak, to remain challenging in 2016 and . and will be a key factor that will influence the prospects of the According to BNM, this initiative has entered its Malaysian economy, said Bank second year of implementation after the first round of briefings in 2015 was well-received. Negara Malaysia (BNM) Assistant 2 Governor En. Abdul Rasheed Among some of the areas discussed were the The briefings have also provided an Ghaffour. challenges in obtaining end-financing in the opportunity for the stakeholders to better property market and the impact of slowdown understand the roles of BNM in Sabah which Abdul Rasheed made the statement during the in China. include undertaking surveillance on economic briefings on the economic developments and and financial issues and implementation of outlook held in Kota Kinabalu on last Monday Abdul Rasheed stressed on the affordability BNM’s strategic agenda. (March 28), in conjunction with the release of issue in the property market that is due to the the BNM Annual Report 2015. undersupply of affordable houses, particularly In addition, BNM conducts outreach in urbanised areas. programmes at underserved areas in Sabah Based on his presentation, the Malaysian to raise awareness on basic financial products, economy is expected to grow by 4.0 – 4.5% According to him, the slowdown in China will scams and consumer redress among in 2016, with domestic demand being the have global spillovers in the near term, as it Sabahans. principal driver of growth. transitions towards a more consumption-base growth. The public is encouraged to contact BNM at Nonetheless, the private consumption and 088-522-310 / 1300-88-5465 / bnmtelelink@ private investment growths are expected Meanwhile the ongoing reforms will pave the bnm.gov.my or visit its Kota Kinabalu regional to trend below their long-term averages, way for a more sustainable growth for China in office if they wish to seek clarification or advice reflecting the continued household the long term and Malaysian firms will need to on financial matters. adjustments to an environment of higher ensure that their products and services remain prices and cautious business sentiments relevant to China’s new growth model. 1. London Spring Place (Artist’s Impression) respectively. 2. QA Session during the brefing, conducted by Assistant Governor Mr Abdul Rasheed

46 www.PropertyHunter.com.my www.PropertyHunter.com.my 47 NEWS Sabahans Unable to Own Houses Due to the Incompetent of the Government – Junz Wong SB

Most Sabahans are unable to own houses Subsequently, a supplementary agreement “Not only that they have to wait for the due to the incompetence of the government, was signed on 1 April 2015 between LPPB issuance of the OC, but also for the specifically Lembaga Pembangunan and the buyers with increased portion electric and water system installation to be Perumahan dan Bandar (LPPB) because to be bound by buyers due to increased completed,” he stressed out, and saying that they have failed to deliver the low cost or prices of building materials. LAD claim was this is not fair to the buyers. affordable houses on time, said DAP Sabah renegotiated / waived. Secretary Junz Wong. “Is not that I do not appreciate LPPB promised to complete the project by what MLGH has done to Junz who is also Likas’ Assemblyman said this the end of 2015. during his site visit to LPPB mixed housing rescue the project, but the project – Taman Limauan Kinarut and Junz said that LPPB did complete the housing level of competency, efficiency Limauan Square on 22 March with his political project with Occupational Certificate (OC) by and professionalism are not secretary Nicholas Chak, together with some 2015 but they have not completed the shop acceptable,” he said, adding that of the buyers. lot in Limauan Square. the buyers signed the agreement According to Junz, the project started its in 2005 and only receive the OC construction in 2005 and was supposed to ten years after. be completed by 2007 but it was delayed for several years until he brought it up in Dewan “Had the government agencies such as LPPB, back in 2013. SPNB, JPN, PRIMA deliver the housing projects on time, lots of Sabahans would have gotten “Back then the housing and shop structure their homes,” he continued. were already 85% completed,” he said, adding 1 that Minister of Local Government and Junz would like to urge LPPB’s new chairman Housing (MLGH) Datuk Haji Hajiji Mohd Noor Datuk Hj Ahmad Hj Bujang as well as kept his promise to rescue the project with a “The commercial building structure was Minister in charge Datuk Hajiji to sort out all newly appointed contractor. completed but still pending installation of technicality issues and make SESB complete proper water piping system as well as the their parts with sense of urgency. He added that the first meeting organized electric connection,” he said. by MLGH to discuss the issue took place on “How much longer do the buyers need to wait 26 February 2014, between the buyers and “I have spoken to the foreman on the site but for their shops?,” he said. LPPB. they also have no idea when Sabah Electric Berhad (SESB) will begin the installation.

Assessment Rates Will Be Reduced - Adenan SW

Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Adenan It is learnt that Adenan will explain further the Satem has confirmed that assessment rates mechanism soon, which still needed to be will be reduced soon, as reported by The discussed further with the local authorities. Borneo Post. Earlier, in his speech, he said assessment He said the state cabinet had agreed on this rates of RM50 and below in Sarawak would during the last cabinet meeting on March 31. be abolished while rates above RM51 would be reduced. 2 “The reduction will be on sliding scale,” he told reporters after launching PBB Samarahan He said this was one of steps taken to election machinery at Dewan Suarah on reduce the cost of living among the people in Sunday. Sarawak.

HSL-Led Consortium Wins RM1.7b Pan Borneo Highway Contract SW

reported Bernama. “The contract period for the completion of the project is 51 months and it is expected to In a filing with Bursa Malaysia on Friday, contribute positively to our earnings,” it said. Hock Seng Lee (HSL) said the contract was to develop and upgrade the first phase of the At the midday break, HSL was up five sen to Pan Borneo Highway in Sarawak. RM2.08 with 3.28 million shares traded.

3 HSL, which has 70% equity in the consortium, The consortium of Hock Seng Lee Bhd-Dhaya said the contract comprised earth works, piling, drainage works, road works, 1. Junz Wong during his site visit to Limauan Maju Infrastucture (Asia) Sdn Bhd Joint Square Venture has secured a RM1.7 billion contract interchanges, bridges and related mechanical 2. Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Adenan Satem 3. Pan Borneo Highway - Sarawak from Lebuhraya Borneo Utara Sdn Bhd, and electrical works.

48 www.PropertyHunter.com.my www.PropertyHunter.com.my 49 Reason #1 Concentrated growth

ECONOMIC AREA OF RESIDENT ATIVIT Y AUSTRALIA POPULATION 80% 0.2% 75%

HOT TOPIC

Souce:Souce: Grattan Grattan Institute: Institute: MappingMapping Australia’s Australia’s Economy Econom y 5 REASONS TO INVEST IN Forecasts show that in the next four Coast). This creates massive economic AUSTRALIAN PROPERTY decades, most people will be living growth in these cities. on the east coast (Sydney, Brisbane, SEARCHING FOR AN INVESTMENT WITH GOOD RETURNS IN A Melbourne). This region’s population will So if you are asking where to invest in POLITICALLY-STABLE COUNTRY? swell to 31 million. The other 9 million Australia for best growth, I would look no further than the major capital cities While many countries are open to investment, only a few are worth will live in the rest of the country. in the East Coast. Once again, they are considering. Australia is one of the countries in the world that is a It is a known fact that population and Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane. fertile ground for investment opportunities. productivity go together. Australia has huge potential with 80% of economic This is not to say that areas like Perth With a population of 24 million people, Australia is currently one activity projected to occur within a small and Adelaide won’t experience any of APEC’s prime investment destinations and one of the largest area of 0.2% of the country, with 75% of growth, you just have to be extra careful economies in the region. In this article, we will reveal 5 reasons you the residential population (in the East which areas you select in those cities. should consider buying properties in Australia.

By Yaron Gal Reason #2 Reason #3 Reason #4 Population Growth Urban Sprawl Economic Growth Australia is a country with steady population Government research projects a massive With the increase of income in households growth. In fact, one extra person is added to growth in households over the next 25 annually, Australia presents a viable ground the population every 77 seconds. In 2014, years. As at 2006, there was a total of 7.8 for investment. Profitability on investment the population was 23.6 million. According million households in Australia. By 2031, is virtually guaranteed, and investors can to 2016 statistics, the population of Australia the number of households is expected to begin to enjoy dividends sooner than is now about 24 million. grow to between 11.4 and 11.8 million. expected.

It is projected that in the next 40 years, 40 This projected increase in households will The continued urbanization of the major million people will reside in Australia, making lead to properties built further and further cities is creating further movement of its population growth one of the fastest in away from the CBD areas. Well-positioned people from within Australia and from the world. properties in those cities therefore stand foreign countries into these major cities. to gain the most in value, since it would The demand for housing properties and become increasingly desirable to live near other amenities is bound to skyrocket in the CBD. few years as a result of such urbanization in these major cities.

50 www.PropertyHunter.com.my www.PropertyHunter.com.my 51 HOT TOPIC

Reason #5 Infrastructure investments Billions of dollars are currently being spent in all major capital cities to improve their infrastructure. As infrastructure is improved, the economy will receive a boost. Investing in such areas would give your investments a good chance of success.

Brisbane Trade Coast Sydney North West Node

$23 billion is getting invested in this area. Billions are being ploughed in here to create Part of the investment will make Brisbane’s a new Metro system, a new town centre Airport have the same capacity as and business park. This also includes a Singapore and Hong Kong’s . major upgrade to Schofield Road to further improve road transport in the area.

hese investments into industries and The investment risk for this country is very low infrastructures present incredible while the dividends are bound to be on the high growth prospects for the astute property side if you invest in the right locations, and select T investor. the right properties. For many Malaysian investors, Australia offers For those considering diversifying your a stable and large economy. At the same time, investments globally, I hope that this article it provides foreign investors with full legal has shown you that exciting opportunities that protection on their freehold properties. abound for property investors in this Australia.

Yaron Gal began purchasing investment properties while working full time and bought 4 investment properties within less than a year. He now works as a property strategist and helps individuals identify high growth properties for wealth creation. For more free information about investing in Australia, visit www.investinproperties.com.au

52 www.PropertyHunter.com.my www.PropertyHunter.com.my 53 NEWS Johor’s REHDA to Help Buyers Secure Housing Loans WM Members of the Johor Real Estate and Housing industrial properties worth about RM11.2 billion, they are genuine buyers and not speculators,’’ Developers Association (REHDA) has and will with prices ranging from RM500,000 to RM3.5 he said. Mohd Rafi also stated that the state continue to engage with commercial banks to million each. government had approached Bank Negara to secure housing loans for eligible house buyers, look into the matter. as reported in The Star Online. Hoe said it was the prerogative of the banks when it comes to disbursing housing loans to Mohd Rafi said the state government had met Johor’s REDHA branch chairman, Hoe Mee Ling, buyers hoping banks would look at on a case-by- central bank officials recently adding “something hoped the engagement between both parties case basis instead of a blanket approval system. positive and good” was in store for qualified would disentangle the issue of eligible house buyers of the affordable houses in Johor. buyers who failed to get bank loans to finance “The property market in Iskandar their purchase. Malaysia is unique as we have Under the Johor’s affordable housing project, each low-cost unit would be sold at about She said at the same time, developers would thousands of locals working in RM40,000 while affordable houses were prices also educate and brief the prospective house Singapore earning in Singapore at a maximum of RM150,000 each. buyers on the disbursement of the loans by dollars, hence a strong purchasing banks and why their applications were rejected. power,’’ she said. To allow more first-time house buyers to own houses, the state government had increased “We, the developers, will do our best to assist the qualifying monthly threshold for household On another note, Hoe said developers remained prospective house buyers especially first-timers income from RM6,000 to RM8,000. upbeat on the property outlook of Iskandar in securing housing loans from banks,’’ said Hoe Malaysia with many reported encouraging sales at a press conference last Friday (1st April 2016). in the first three months of 2016 especially the landed residential properties. She said this following the launch of the Johor Malaysian Property Expo 2015 at the Johor Baru Meanwhile, Mohd Rafi said state authorities City Square shopping complex by the state have received complaints from rejected first- assistant secretary (housing division), Mohd Rafi time buyers who were qualified financially to buy Abdullah. affordable houses in Johor.

The three-day event saw a participation of 33 “Johor will assist them to get their loans as 1 developers offering residential, commercial and

Overseas Properties Still Remain Attractive to Malaysians IN

and the UK. In 1H 2015, Australia was the Residential properties still remain the favourite, top choice with 40 percent of respondents, with 23 per cent of respondents showing their Singapore with 23 percent and the UK at 19 interest with the their ‘definitely would’ purchase percent. in high-rise, strata units be it flats, apartments, condominiums. A further 52 per cent said they 2 “Australia’s appeal has grown stronger probably ‘probably would’. due to the favourable currency exchange Despite the reduced buying power of the rate, which had not seen much appreciation Of the respondents surveyed who own a depreciating Ringgit, overseas property to the Malaysia Ringgit unlike the US Dollar property overseas, most stated that their investments retain their attraction to Malaysians or British pound. It is also a well-established, property was located in Australia, and followed with Australia, Singapore, Indonesia and the stable market that Malaysians are familiar with by Singapore. UK emerging as the preferred destinations for and is comparatively not too far away,” shared buying property abroad, reported The Borneo PropertyGuru Malaysia country manager, It is said that Malaysians have also invested Post. Sheldon Fernandez. extensively into commercial properties and land.

The finding was revealed by PropertyGuru “Singapore retains its attractiveness Of those who owned properties, affordability Malaysia’s Property Market Sentiment Survey due to its close proximity and long- and capital appreciation were the top reasons Report. for investment, followed by planning for standing cultural ties and similarities children’s education, so on and so forth. First Among the key findings from the report, with Malaysia. This is despite the Home Scheme’. 75 percent of Malaysians expressed their strong appreciation of the Singapore interest to purchase private apartments or condominiums in the second half of 2015 Dollar throughout 2015,” he added (2H15) despite the weakening and depreciation in the Ringgit and other dampening external While land and commercial properties trail other factors. property classes, these are beginning to see more interest from investors. Interest for landed 1. Johor’s REDHA branch chairman, Hoe Mee Ling The top choice for overseas property is Australia properties overseas remained stable at 12 per 2. Singapore is one of the choice for at 52 percent followed by Singapore, Indonesia cent, a tad lower than 14 per cent in 1H15. Malaysians to invest in international property market.

54 www.PropertyHunter.com.my www.PropertyHunter.com.my 55 DRIVE Around the world with a Mercedes-Benz G-Class An expedition for the 21st century

Following his successful K2 expedition in Pakistan last year, this time, Mike Horn aims to travel around the world once again in a Mercedes-Benz G-Class. Horn has been closely connected with the iconic wagon since the Pangaea expedition took place between 2008-2012.

56 www.PropertyHunter.com.my www.PropertyHunter.com.my 57 DRIVE

Mike Horn and his two trusted rides

orn in South Africa and a Swiss territorial conditions he will encounter resident, Mark Horn has circled around the world. the world entirely without engine power, climbed four 8,000-metre “When you fly over a country, it remains mountains, followed the Arctic unknown to you. When you cross it by car BCircle around the globe in the Arctic winter and on foot you can see new things, discover and swum the length of the Amazon River. the beauty of nature and understand the life and the needs of the people who live there. The objective of his expeditions is to The Mercedes-Benz G-Class enables me to explore culture and nature in remote do this – even in the most remote areas of regions and to share his experiences the world. It provided impressive proof of with people around him. With the new this last year on my ‘Driven to Explore’ K2 “Pole2Pole” expedition, Horn will complete expedition,” says Mike Horn. a unique circumnavigation of the globe via the two poles. Extensive testing of Horn will begin the “Pole2Pole” expedition the two G-Class SUVs Horn will be using in Monaco on May 6, 2016, then sail his during the expedition took place in April in expedition boat, the PANGAEA, south to Alberta, Canada. Horn chose to travel from Namibia. The expedition will continue in the Calgary to Jasper and back to encounter G-Class through the Namib, the world’s oldest and experience comparable climatic and desert on the Namibian coast. The route will then take him through Botswana’s Okavango delta, the world’s largest inland delta, prior to reaching Cape Town in South Africa. From there, the expedition will take him to the Horn drove 10,640 Antarctic which he will cross on skis by way of the South Pole. Horn will then sail the Pacific kilometers (6,611 miles) through Oceania where he will also explore Pole2Pole Expedition parts of New Zealand and Australia. In Papua in the G-Wagon from New Guinea, the G-Class will await for an expedition through unspoiled equatorial Switzerland through forests. Once in Asia, a further overland ten countries in Central expedition with the G-Wagon will lead him through the tundra in Kamchatka (Russia), “and Eastern Europe to before he makes his way to the North Pole. From there, he will travel by ski and kayak to the Savage Mountain of Greenland where he will return to his boat and finally complete the full loop of his trip by K2 in Pakistan. sailing back to Europe.

The two G-Class SUVs accompanying Horn’s expedition

58 www.PropertyHunter.com.my www.PropertyHunter.com.my 59 DRIVE

Leap of faith The Third Joint Expedition For Mercedes-Benz and Mike Horn

Mercedes-Benz and Mike Horn have been ten countries in Central and Eastern Europe to partners for many years. With his upcoming the Savage Mountain of K2 in Pakistan. ‘Pole2Pole’ expedition, Horn is reaching out to young people worldwide, to raise awareness Mercedes-Benz sponsored the PANGAEA and establish a better understanding of foreign expedition between 2008 and 2012. Horn cultures and their living environment. sailed around the world with the 35-metre long expedition sailing vessel. With the guiding theme Last year, Mercedes-Benz supported the “Explore. Learn. Act.”, he introduced ecological expedition “Driven to Explore”, during which and social projects with young people from both partners drew attention to environmental different places around the globe. More than change in even the most remote regions of the 100 follow-up projects have since followed on. world. Horn drove 10,640 kilometers (6,611 miles) in the G-Wagon from Switzerland through

60 www.PropertyHunter.com.my www.PropertyHunter.com.my 61 AUTOMOTIVE NEWS

Property Hunter covers the latest car news, announcements, releases and trends from the automotive industry.

BORGWARD Wins Red Dot Design Award

ORGWARD Group AG’s first model in 55 years has already received an award, specifically an Honourable Mention in the Product Design Bcategory of the Red Dot Award for its debut SUV, the BORGWARD BX7. The Red Dot Award is presented annually in the categories Product Design and Communication Design and among the award’s panel of top-level judges, were U.S. product designer Chris Bangle and Malaysia’s very own International shoe designer, Datuk Jimmy Choo. Source: BORGWARD Group AG

euve Clicquot Ponsardin is announced as the first “lifestyle Veuve Clicquot & Ferrari partner” of Ferrari at the Geneva International Motor Show. The world renowned champagne House and prestige Lifestyle Partnership automobile company have renewed their partnership under Vthis new status; a first in Maranello history. After a successful three years of celebrating both brands’ legendary heritage in innovation and lifestyle, the new engagement will strengthen their communication and event activation platforms around the world. Veuve Clicquot will continue to support Ferrari in its international lifestyle events and will accompany Ferrari in its celebrations during their lifestyle events, Formula 1 races and new car launches.

The new agreement will continue for the next three years, until the end of 2018. SOURCE: Veuve Clicquot

MW Group Malaysia has introduced its newest motorcycles to the BMW Motorrad Malaysia family – the BMW C 650 The New BMW C 650 Sport Sport and the BMW C 650 GT. Perfect for the city and urban environment, the new motorcycles combine practicality with & BMW C 650 GT Zooms Bmaximum riding fun and touring comfort. into Malaysia

The new BMW C 650 Sport features a more modern and dynamic design, whereas the new BMW 650 GT in contrast, has been fine-tuned with new rear side trim panels and a new rear light unit.

Both the new BMW C 650 Sport and BMW C 650 GT draw their power from the distinctive, liquid-cooled four-valved two-cylinder engine with 647cc and electronic fuel injection. This optimised drivetrain set-up ensures a dynamic propulsion in the new maxi scooters, both with a rated output of 60 hp at 7,750 rpm and a maximum torque of 63 Nm Valencia Metallic Matt and Frozen Bronze Metallic are exclusive colours at 6,000 rpm. to the new BMW C 650 Sport and BMW C 650 GT and retails (on the road without insurance) at RM64,900 and RM68,900 respectively. The new BMW C 650 Sport and BMW C 650 GT are made available in www.bmw.com.my the colours of Blackstorm Metallic and Lightwhite Solid Paint, while

62 www.PropertyHunter.com.my www.PropertyHunter.com.my 63 FURNISH IKEA, always in fashion A strong narrative runs through the collection; it’s the IKEA has collaborated with fashion designers from across Europe to create three new story of a gang of characters called the Wondermooi, limited edition collections. The unique and innovative new ranges mark the retailer’s each of whom has a unique look and personality. The story is set in a place above the clouds, where first ever partnerships with fashion designers, forming part of its ongoing dedication to the Wondermooi peacefully live, and work together creating collections that respond directly to current trends and fuse various influences to solve the world’s problems, and brings peace, love to give customers cutting-edge design at affordable prices. and happiness to Earth.

This new collection includes menswear designer Katie Eary’s GILTIG, which features eclectic soft furnishings and dinnerware with fish, cat and eyeball prints at the forefront of the design aesthetic. GLÖDANDE, the collaboration with Walter Van Beirendonck, GLÖDANDE uses the designer’s playfulness in assorted fabrics and ceramics. The final collection, SVÄRTAN, created in partnership with Martin Bergstrom, focuses on merging modern Created in partnership with leading designer and previous member of the Antwerp Six, Water Van Indian and Swedish design, resulting in a collection of products made only from white, Beirendonck, GLÖDANDE is a collection of ready- black and shades of grey. to-cut fabrics, paper stationary, rugs, porcelain and pillows that showcase Van Beirendonck’s playfulness, These collections focus on reinvigorating interior design and push the boundaries of curiosity and avant-garde flair. what can be achieved through large-scale production in the home furnishing sphere.

GILTIG

Designed with London-based menswear designer Katie Eary, GILTIG includes tableware and home textiles created to turn up the volume at any party. Integrating Katie’s ‘in your face’ patterns with home furnishings has created a range of standalone items that can change a whole room through their touches of vibrancy and over the top design.

64 www.PropertyHunter.com.my www.PropertyHunter.com.my 65 FURNISH

SVÄRTAN

A collaboration between IKEA and Swedish textile designer Martin Bergstrom, SVÄRTAN is a collection of bed linens, textiles, paper products, rugs, bowls, glassware and metal objects created using just black, white and shades of grey with the aim of producing a modern interpretation of India and its heritage.

Martin and IKEA worked closely with students from the National Institute of Fashion Technology in New Delhi to craft a contemporary image of India, striking a balance between the organic and the abstract. The whole collection was then produced in India using traditional techniques and natural materials, and fusing age-old processes with new solutions to create a collection that truly bridged the gap between old and new.

For more informations, visit www.ikea.com/ca/en

66 www.PropertyHunter.com.my www.PropertyHunter.com.my 67 GADGET HIGH TECH FIFTH-GEN MUST HAVES Succumming ourselves into the world of technology today, with the hottest gadgets and trends out there.

EDITOR’S PICK Watches Inspired by Legendary Cars

Every man’s dream watch. The Mille Miglia GTS Chrono brings the world of racing to your wrist. As official timekeeper and sponsor of the Mille Apple CarPlay, your ultimate co-pilot Miglia – the world’s most renowned race for classic cars, Chopard has fashioned a collection CarPlay is an efficient way to connect an iPhone to your car’s of luxury sports watches which has become the infotainment system, letting you access smartphone functions like brand’s unique sporting emblem. Aesthetically, music, messaging, calls, navigation all in a way that allows you to the prominent timepiece is just as remarkable. stay focused on the road. Just plug in your iPhone and go. Only With its illustrative red minutiae, the watch iPhone 5 and newer devices can run CarPlay, including the latest finely brings Mille Miglia racing cars to mind: iPhone SE,,iPhone 6S and iPhone 6S Plus. If you’re hoping to keep pushers inspired by engine pistons, anti-grip an iPad always plugged in for CarPlay functions, it will not work, surfaces eliciting a brake pedal and a rubber unfortunately. strap suggesting tyre-treads. www.apple.com www.chopard.com

Bringing Brilliance to Life The Next Generation Smartphone under Your Nose HTC, a pioneer in innovative, smart technologies, in partnership with Valve®, unveiled the consumer edition of its ViveTM Galaxy S7 and Galaxy S7 edge lead the industry with a refined design, more virtual reality system. It enables you to stay connected to advanced camera, streamlined software functionality and unparalleled connectivity the real world, without exiting the virtual world, Vive Phone to a galaxy of products, services, and experiences. users can also get the best Services demonstrates the ability to combine both realities mobile payment service with Samsung Pay; it’s secure, easy-to-use and accepted without losing touch of either. But it’s not just about gaming. almost anywhere. Protected by Samsung KNOX, fingerprint scanning and advanced HTC is working with developers to foster the creation of tokenization, Samsung Pay works with NFC (Near Field Communication), MST content that spans multiple sectors including entertainment, (Magnetic Secure Transmission) and Barcode technology, making mobile payments retail, education, design, healthcare and automotive. available to more merchants and consumers than ever before.

www.htc.com www.samsung.com

68 www.PropertyHunter.com.my www.PropertyHunter.com.my 69 HOT TOPIC MAKING COMMERCIAL PROPERTY INVESTMENT YOUR NEXT FINANCIAL FUTURE

So, you’ve bought your first house and another condo as investments. Investing In Commercial Real Commercial Real Estate Is Now, you’re thinking about investing in commercial properties for a change. Congratulations, you’ve come to the right page. Estate Is A Way To Balance Valued Differently Compared Your Investment Portfolio To Residential Ones Commercial properties are classified as property assets primarily 01 Depending on your age and life stage, it’s 02 Unlike with residential properties, the used for business purposes. It consists of three sectors: retail, office important to have some balance in your income produced by a piece of commercial and industrial. Each with a range of asset classes, these sectors have investment portfolio -- say, 90 per cent in property is directly proportionate to its their own cycle often representing very different risks and rewards. stocks and 10 per cent in real estate by the usable square footage. time you’re in your mid 30s to early 40s. Investing in commercial real estate, just like residential real estate, is a great way to grow your money fast. Here are what you need to know about investing in commercial real estate: Owning Commercial Commercial Real Estate Property Diversifies Your Offers Greater Cash Flow By Property Hunter 03 Investment Risk 04 For example, if you lease or rent out a For instance, if you own a commercial multi-unit commercial property, you will lot and lose one of your 10 tenants, you have more tenants to generate income only lose one-tenth of the income for that than the case with individual-family property, instead of the entire rent as you dwelling. This is because the yield is often would if you lost a tenant in a single-family higher per square foot in commercial real house. estate compared to residential real estate.

Commercial Real Estate Has Commercial Properties Are Generally Longer Leases Valued Differently By Banks 05 This will help make your cash flow more 06 Unlike residential properties, which stable in the long term. normally require a 10 per cent down payment upon purchase; commercial properties usually demands a higher down payment -- about 30 percent more on average.

70 www.PropertyHunter.com.my www.PropertyHunter.com.my 71 HOT TOPIC

Add Modern Amenities

Having modern facilities makes a world of difference to your property. You can start by installing current, energy-efficient heating and air-conditioning, water 03 heaters and lighting that will also help to save on energy cost.

Also, make sure to keep eco-friendliness on top of your list, as green buildings are extremely popular and in trend today. Consider green options, such as solar panels, energy-efficient appliances and energy-conserving windows that will not only save you on overhead costs and tax incentives, but also keep your property relevant in the current consumer market.

04 Increase Security Features Security features, such as alarm systems, grilles and shutters can boost your How To Boost The Value Of property value by making the property more attractive to tenants and lowering Your Commercial Property your insurance premium. Make sure that your property is also well-lit at night. Should you decide to take the plunge into commercial real estate investment, here are some tips on how to add value to your commercial lot investment:

Adding Square Footage To Your Property

As a commercial property increases in value depending on its additional square 01 footage, property expansion is the most common way to boost the value of your property. 05 Identify Local Demands Depending on your property’s purpose, you can also add value by adding offices, Do your research on what is most desirable right now in the area of your warehouse, storefront, parking space or conference rooms. Best of all, if your property. What does the neighborhood need? What other future developments commercial property has a demand for more tenants, adding more space can are happening (a new school, condominium, or shopping center) that will affect prove to be economical. Be sure to consult your local building management the supply and demand of your investment? authorities before commencing with any construction work.

Perform Cosmetic Changes On Your Property

The external appearance of your commercial property can greatly boost its selling power. Luckily, aesthetic changes need not cost a bomb, as there are Find Ways To Scrimp On Expenses 02 many cost-effective ways to beautify your property. 06 For commercial properties, the value depends largely on how profitable it For instance, making sure that your commercial space is clean is the cheapest is. Profits can be increased either by raising rents or by reducing expenses. and easiest surefire way to add value to your property. You can ensure that Fortunately, it is possible to reduce expenses without impacting the operations garbage are consistently disposed of, gardens and lawns are cut and well- of the property significantly. manicured and make sure that there are no funny smells lingering around the area. Simple ways to do this include investing in energy-efficient lightbulbs and other appliances as well as choosing a location adjacent to other attractive facilities, Adding a fresh coat of paint is also an easy way to give your property an instant such as neighbouring street markets, malls and free car park area. facelift without having to make structural changes to the building.

72 www.PropertyHunter.com.my www.PropertyHunter.com.my 73 ith many facing this issue, our buyer needs to fill-in and submit a form for Prime Minister launched the approval. It is not an automatic approval. But it ‘MyDeposit Scheme’ recently. aims to help the middle-income group. Effective from 7th of April, Wpotential first home buyers can apply for Based on the amount allocated, only 6,667 the special scheme to help them purchase cases will be allocated in this scheme if properties that are less than RM500,000. everyone applies for RM30,000. Better There are RM200,000 million up for grabs hurry, as many people have applied since its for this scheme. How it works is that the inception. government will subsidise between RM3,000 to a maximum RM30,000 for the buyer. The I have extracted the conditions for approval.

This scheme is not only applicable for new projects but secondary properties as well. This is certainly good news for property buyers.

Applicants will have to prepare the following for submission to be 1. Applicants must be at least 21 years old when the HOT TOPIC eligible for the scheme: application is made (no maximum age limit).

2. This application is for the purchase of first home per • Identity card of the applicant and spouse MY VIEW ON household. • Marriage certificate (if applicable) 3. Gross income of RM10,000 and below per month. MYDEPOSIT SCHEME • Handicapped / Disabled card or letter (if applicable) Gross monthly income includes all forms of When we talk about owning our first home, many people still can’t afford remuneration arising from employment or business (wages, salaries, commissions, bonuses, allowances to buy. We have to acknowledge that properties today have increased in • Letter of oath for self-employed applicant and others). price as compared to ten years ago. This isn’t just exclusive to Malaysia but • Confirmation letter from the employer it happens in other countries too. Many people worry that if they don’t buy 4. Applicants must have the ability to apply for a loan today, property prices will keep going up. • Latest pay slip from any financial institution.

In affordable housing, the quantum set by the government for properties • EPF statement or income tax return 5. Eligible applicants will be given conditional approval and will be required to sign the is less than RM500,000. At that price, many people still can’t afford to • Pension letter (if applicable) Purchase Agreement within 30 days buy. Today, potential buyers also have other commitments such as daily expenses, children’s education, transportation costs and so on. We • Identity card / MyKid / birth certificate acknowledge that things are getting more and more expensive. • Letter of offer / confirmation of the developer / seller

Right now, when you want to buy a house, it’s not that easy. Bank rejections • Central Credit Reference Information System (CCRIS) have become a hot topic. Statistics have shown that in every 10 cases submitted, (applicant and spouse). more than 5 are rejected. In some banks, it can be as high as 8 cases.

By Miichael Yeoh Source: http://sprn.kpkt.gov.my/sprn/

any people still have queries Answer: The scheme is to help first time to go through. The government and the on the scheme as it is still new. home buyers. It is for you to live in only. bank. On the good side, this scheme will There will be improvements help loan borrowers in the margin of along the way. Here are some Question: After I get approval from the finance as it will be lower if the borrower Mcommon questions being asked: scheme, is it automatic approval from the borrows less. The bank’s lending risk will banks too? also be lower and thus increase the chance Question: If my wife already owns a of approval. property can I still apply? Answer: No. You will have to follow individual bank approval criteria.Q&A You will I feel that this is a boost to the industry. It Answer: The scheme is for first time home have a slight advantage as the margin of will give the middle-income a chance to own purchasers only. If either husband or wife finance is lower. a home and also the developers to sell their already owns a home, you cannot apply projects. I hope that the government will under the scheme. Please be aware, that although the increase the allocation so more can enjoy government has approved you as a the benefits. Question: Can I rent out the property after successful applicant, you will have to go I purchase it? through the bank’s approval. The normal You can read more of my articles on mortgage approval applies. So, there are two hurdles financing at www.miichaelyeoh.com

74 www.PropertyHunter.com.my www.PropertyHunter.com.my 75 Malaysian’s Overseas Preference: Australia, The property market Singapore, Indonesia is definitely not HOT in and the UK transactions, ok?

f I was forced to choose a I disagree with some of the find it misleading that there of transactions. There are still country to migrate to, my results from the survey because are still news articles these people buying because they choice would be the UK rental yields for Malaysian days saying that the property really need a home, they need and not Australia. There properties are definitely not market is getting hot, much to upgrade or even just because Iare multiple reasons why, but lower than many of the countries Ilike the weather that we’ve been the father-in-law said, “you must let’s just put it as personal stated. The reason is because suffering from lately. Sorry, I buy a home before getting preference. According to property prices in many of these disagree until the numbers show married.” -- this was true for me a survey by PropertyGuru countries have increased more firmly that the transactions are many years ago. reported by Bernama, in terms than Malaysia. Of course due to growing for a few quarters. The We should also be very savvy of Malaysians thinking about the cooling measures, the prices property market has become because if there’s a queue investing in overseas properties, have come down. This is perhaps more sensible and it is definitely forming outside developers’ By Charles Tan their preference would be one of the reasons why investors nowhere near HOT. From offices one week before a Australia, Singapore, Indonesia believe that strong capital my conversations with many launch, should we believe that and the United Kingdom. appreciation would continue. established property investors, they may be offering special www.kopiandproperty.com Perhaps I have yet to attain that Retirement is, however, a very 2016 is going to be another renovation packages or rebates, stage, that’s why I did not choose good reason; I find it tough to bland year. The only probability and so on? Australia yet. Sorry, Singapore is walk outside the office these is for it to slow further because definitely out. I need space, not days because of the heat. Of of the global market. Currently, Just as some rebates are a farce just ever tall buildings built close course, Australia or the UK would not many countries are doing – as it may have been built into to one another. serve me as better alternatives. well it seems. the price – it is also not true that everything is so expensive that What are the reasons for Also, if I were to send my I do agree, though, that today we should just rent for life. I’m Malaysians to invest overseas? children to further their studies, there is more interest in sure that even after evaluating The factors include: better the choice is obvious. It sounds property investment, where for many years, my wife may not rental yields (56%), strong biased, but I prefer British awareness is concerned. The believe I am the best man for capital appreciation (55%) and universities. Thus, if I could afford property market is slowing down. her but since she got married “better environment”, as well as a unit overseas, it would be in Agreed. However, more people to me, she just makes sure that retirement (both at 46%). These the UK. Perhaps not necessarily are getting interested. Even if I perform to the best of my factors are then followed by in London. Why not Bristol there is more interest, even if abilities. The property market is children’s education (36%). The instead? the property sites continue to be the same. There are plenty of survey was done in collaboration visited by more people and even fish in the sea and we need to with Added Value-Saffron Hill, a It’s interesting to peruse these if the organisers of property fairs evaluate carefully. Even among Singapore-based independent surveys, but bear in mind, our tell you that they have higher different types of hardwoods, professional research agency. property investment should attendance this year - stay real. there are lots of choices. Some The survey aims to help be determined by ourselves. If the property market is getting may be more expensive simply consumers and property agents Following exactly what a survey hot, then why are there now because it looks better but both understand the local property says may not be the best action. more rebates? Why are there would last a very long time. market to make better business more discounts and why are The question is, what kind of and buying decisions. there more creative ways that quality do we need for the kind the developers are trying to sell of price we are willing to pay. their properties? Decide, take action. Else, buy that second-hand European I hope everyone understands sports car and enjoy overtaking that even though the property everyone on the highway. market is not hot, it’s not frozen either. Just look at the number

76 www.PropertyHunter.com.my www.PropertyHunter.com.my 77 NEWS Sunway Now Offers Housing Loan WM Rubbish Problems in KK May Scare Away Tourists - Masidi SB People buying a home from Sunway Bhd can located properties in the market. However, Meanwhile, the developer has launched Tourists might decide to skip “Unfortunately, we have a big price to pay – the “I don’t think those in Pulau Gaya drive a now take housing loans from the developer with the uncertain times now, the timing of the final phase of Sunway GEO at Sunway Sabah in favour of Indonesia or waste.” Proton or Mercedez,” he said. if they are unable to get bank mortgages, the people’s commitment to properties is South Quay in Kuala Lumpur. It also unveiled reported The Rakyat Post. something of great concern,” said Sarena serviced apartments in Bangi, , while a the Philippines if the rubbish issue Masidi said the people should take ownership Therefore, Masidi said the government needed Cheah, Managing Director of Sunway’s condominium in Mont Kiara was rolled out. here remains unresolved, said of the rubbish problem and clean up their own non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and These loans will cover up to 88 percent of property development division in Malaysia and Tourism, Culture and Environment waste products. individuals to keep the environment clean. the price of a house, and will be funded by Singapore. “The gross development value for Minister Datuk Seri Panglima He pointed out that rubbish could be seen “When individuals and NGOs come into the Sunway’s internally generated sources. The the three projects is estimated at loans come with deferred payment and However, the interest rate may be higher Masidi Manjun, as reported by The along the beach at Likas Bay and worse, all picture, that means we take ownership of the a voluntary exit plan. The former allows than those offered by banks, and mortgage RM800 million,” said Cheah. Borneo Post. over the places around the houses on stilts at problem,” he said, adding that the involvement buyers to pay the monthly loan instalment applicants will be screened by Sunway. Sembulan. of NGOs would enhance the effectiveness of after 12 to 24 months, while the voluntary Bankrupt individuals and those younger than maintaining the cleanliness of the State. exit plan allows them to rescind the Sales & 18 are non-eligible. “We try to portray or sell Sabah as a tourism Purchase Agreement (SPA) due to unforeseen destination. We have beautiful mountain, “I am happy that the association (SCDWA) is circumstances, such as unemployment. These housing loans are available until forest, beaches, islands and crystal clear water. taking up the courage to sort out the problem September 2016 and will be offered on a first- (waste management).” “We are still seeing demand for good and well- come, first-served basis. 1 “Some of the best Malaysians are Masidi also encouraged the Kota Kinabalu in Sabah. Although we are good Chinese Chamber of Commerce and Industry Red Sea Buys Malaysian Modular Housing Builder for US$7 Million WM Malaysians, we are also good in (KKCCCI), Sabah Housing and Real Estate Developers Association (Shareda) and other 1 throwing rubbish,” he said. A Dubai subsidiary company, Red Sea Housing existing bank facilities and cash flow. and recently had a deal with the Australian associations related to construction to create a Services Company, has recently bought a government to provide housing for asylum While a substantial amount of rubbish comes unit to tackle waste management. Malaysian company that specializes in building Designer and manufacturer, AM Modular, is seekers at a processing centre in Papua New He said neighbouring countries, the Philippines from , Masidi said the biggest modular housing for a hefty US$7 million (RM27 Guinea. and Indonesia, were also developing their polluters were actually people living on the He said the people should clean up their own million), as reported by The National. tourism facilities at a rapid pace. The southern mainland. waste and make cleanliness a part of their Last month, the company announced it had Philippines, for example, also has diving sites culture, while educating people not to litter as The Jeddah company said that the deal, won a contract with the Qatari real estate as good as the Sipidan Island in Sabah, he said. “Whenever people talk about rubbish, our well. under which it will pay an initial US$3 million company Daruna, worth 144 million Qatari riyals fingers straightaway point to Pulau Gaya.” (RM12 million) in cash and the rest in annual (RM153 mllion), to build accommodation for 2 “The only problem is security in the Southern The enforcement agency would also need to instalments, will boost its plans to expand into 4,000 people. Philippines; and Indonesia has yet to come He said rubbish seen at coastal areas actually step up its effort, he said. the South East Asian market and allow the a prefabricated modular building with three up with better management of its island came from people living along rivers and company to get its hands on an “unconventional factory sites in Malaysia. The company was Red Sea declared a 56 per cent decline net resources,” he continued. waterways, who deemed rivers as their “It will be difficult to tell the world construction technology” that would allow it established in 2007 and opened an Australian profit last year to 76.1 million (RM79 million) ‘movable dustbin’. we are beautiful. Yes, physically to build concrete structures of up to 12 floors arm in Adelaide in 2009. Saudi riyals. Revenue fell by 7 per cent to 1 He also said tourists would soon have a choice quickly and using less manpower. billion (RM1 billion) riyals. The Chairman, Amr Al the people of Sabah are beautiful, whether to come to Sabah, or to Indonesia or As a result, the waste dumped into the river Red Sea Housing Services provides temporary Dabbagh, said the company had been affected the Philippines. was carried back by waves to the land and but our behaviour is less so. In a statement to the Saudi stock exchange, the and permanent modular housing used by by lower oil prices, which resulted in some beaches, he said. group said the deal would add about 100 million companies to house staff working in remote projects being called off and others suspended. “Sooner or later, tourists may decide to skip “We need to change our Saudi riyals (RM103 million) to its revenues for locations. It has provided accommodation to Sabah, not because we do not have beautiful “So do not get angry with DBKK (City Hall) when behaviour. It starts from us,” he this year. The deal will be financed through companies in the mining, oil and gas sectors mountain and sea, but because they cannot our sea or beaches are full of rubbish. We are stressed. stand the rubbish that is all over the place,” he responsible for it. It’s CIDB Fault, Not Developers - SHAREDA SB warned when officiating at the first installation Also present at the event were Mayor Datuk ceremony of the Sabah Construction and “Some throw rubbish (and reasoned that) Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Dr Ahmad ones who bring the illegal immigrants in,” said Deputy President. Yeo Boon Hai, KKCCCI president Datuk Michael Domestic Waste Management Association otherwise DBKK has no work (to do).” Zahid Hamid should retract his statement on Goh, when commenting on Ahmad Zahid’s (SCDWA) last Thursday (March 17). Lui Yen Sang, Sabah West Coast, and subjecting employers or agents who hire illegal announcement on the government’s decision Goh further said that developers and Interior Residencies Tyre Dealers’ Association Furthermore, Masidi said a study by City Hall foreign workers to whipping, said President to stop the recruitment of new foreign workers contractors had to resort to hiring illegal workers president Candy Wong and SCDWA chairman He said Kota Kinabalu was developing rapidly showed that 70 per cent of the rubbish in the of Sabah Housing and Real Estate Developers with immediate effect on Saturday, March 12. because CIDB was unable to produce skilled Steve Yeo Lip Koh. with buildings mushrooming all over the city, city were thrown out from moving vehicles, or (SHAREDA) Datuk Francis Goh, as reported by construction workers, thus it was unreasonable and having the highest rate of property value as he pointed out, from Mercedez Benz and The Borneo Post. He also said that the shortage of labour in to punish employers for using illegal workers. appreciation in Malaysia. Proton. construction industry would not exist if the Goh said developers have been carrying Construction Industry Development Board “If the government imposes whipping, many out their social responsibility to register (CIDB) Malaysia had fulfilled its responsibility of developers will not want to go in this industry,” undocumented foreign workers and thus should training skilled workers. Goh warned. not be subjected to such punishment. “Contractors who undertook government and Goh urged the government to fully understand Goh also said that the influx of illegal immigrants private projects were required to pay 0.125 the whole situation before making any to Sabah for the past 30 years was caused by per cent of the contract sum to CIDB or Pusat statements in the future. the government’s failure to control external Khidmat Kontraktor (PKK) to train workers security. under Act 520. For the past 10 years, how many skilled workers or training centres have CIDB 1. Logo of Sunway Bhd “Developers and contractors are not the established,” said Goh, who is also Sabah MCA 2. Red Sea Housing Services Company logo 1. Tanjung Lipat, Likas full of garbage.

78 www.PropertyHunter.com.my www.PropertyHunter.com.my 79 CONDOMINIUM FOR SALE Extracted from PropertyHunter.com.my CONDOMINIUM FOR SALE Extracted from PropertyHunter.com.my

*Listing are accurate at the time of print. Kindly contact the respective agents for updates. *Listing are accurate at the time of print. Kindly contact the respective agents for updates. For more real estate listings, please visit www.propertyhunter.com.my For more real estate listings, please visit www.propertyhunter.com.my

80 www.PropertyHunter.com.my www.PropertyHunter.com.my 81 CONDOMINIUM FOR SALE Extracted from PropertyHunter.com.my CONDOMINIUM FOR SALE Extracted from PropertyHunter.com.my

*Listing are accurate at the time of print. Kindly contact the respective agents for updates. *Listing are accurate at the time of print. Kindly contact the respective agents for updates. For more real estate listings, please visit www.propertyhunter.com.my For more real estate listings, please visit www.propertyhunter.com.my

82 www.PropertyHunter.com.my www.PropertyHunter.com.my 83 APARTMENT FOR SALE Extracted from PropertyHunter.com.my APARTMENT FOR SALE Extracted from PropertyHunter.com.my

*Listing are accurate at the time of print. Kindly contact the respective agents for updates. *Listing are accurate at the time of print. Kindly contact the respective agents for updates. For more real estate listings, please visit www.propertyhunter.com.my For more real estate listings, please visit www.propertyhunter.com.my

84 www.PropertyHunter.com.my www.PropertyHunter.com.my 85 SEMI-DETACHED HOUSE FOR SALE Extracted from PropertyHunter.com.my SEMI-DETACHED HOUSE FOR SALE Extracted from PropertyHunter.com.my

*Listing are accurate at the time of print. Kindly contact the respective agents for updates. *Listing are accurate at the time of print. Kindly contact the respective agents for updates. For more real estate listings, please visit www.propertyhunter.com.my For more real estate listings, please visit www.propertyhunter.com.my

86 www.PropertyHunter.com.my www.PropertyHunter.com.my 87 BUNGALOW/VILLA FOR SALE Extracted from PropertyHunter.com.my BUNGALOW/VILLA FOR SALE Extracted from PropertyHunter.com.my

*Listing are accurate at the time of print. Kindly contact the respective agents for updates. *Listing are accurate at the time of print. Kindly contact the respective agents for updates. For more real estate listings, please visit www.propertyhunter.com.my For more real estate listings, please visit www.propertyhunter.com.my

88 www.PropertyHunter.com.my www.PropertyHunter.com.my 89 COMMERCIAL FOR SALE Extracted from PropertyHunter.com.my COMMERCIAL FOR SALE Extracted from PropertyHunter.com.my

*Listing are accurate at the time of print. Kindly contact the respective agents for updates. *Listing are accurate at the time of print. Kindly contact the respective agents for updates. For more real estate listings, please visit www.propertyhunter.com.my For more real estate listings, please visit www.propertyhunter.com.my

90 www.PropertyHunter.com.my www.PropertyHunter.com.my 91 CONDOMINIUM FOR RENT Extracted from PropertyHunter.com.my CONDOMINIUM FOR RENT Extracted from PropertyHunter.com.my

*Listing are accurate at the time of print. Kindly contact the respective agents for updates. *Listing are accurate at the time of print. Kindly contact the respective agents for updates. For more real estate listings, please visit www.propertyhunter.com.my For more real estate listings, please visit www.propertyhunter.com.my

92 www.PropertyHunter.com.my www.PropertyHunter.com.my 93 CONDOMINIUM FOR RENT Extracted from PropertyHunter.com.my CONDOMINIUM FOR RENT Extracted from PropertyHunter.com.my

*Listing are accurate at the time of print. Kindly contact the respective agents for updates. *Listing are accurate at the time of print. Kindly contact the respective agents for updates. For more real estate listings, please visit www.propertyhunter.com.my For more real estate listings, please visit www.propertyhunter.com.my

94 www.PropertyHunter.com.my www.PropertyHunter.com.my 95 APARTMENT FOR RENT Extracted from PropertyHunter.com.my APARTMENT FOR RENT Extracted from PropertyHunter.com.my

*Listing are accurate at the time of print. Kindly contact the respective agents for updates. *Listing are accurate at the time of print. Kindly contact the respective agents for updates. For more real estate listings, please visit www.propertyhunter.com.my For more real estate listings, please visit www.propertyhunter.com.my

96 www.PropertyHunter.com.my www.PropertyHunter.com.my 97 COMMERCIAL FOR RENT Extracted from PropertyHunter.com.my COMMERCIAL FOR RENT Extracted from PropertyHunter.com.my

*Listing are accurate at the time of print. Kindly contact the respective agents for updates. *Listing are accurate at the time of print. Kindly contact the respective agents for updates. For more real estate listings, please visit www.propertyhunter.com.my For more real estate listings, please visit www.propertyhunter.com.my

98 www.PropertyHunter.com.my www.PropertyHunter.com.my 99 100 www.PropertyHunter.com.my