WIN A BOOK! THE LATEST PROPERTY INVESTING BESTSELLER! pg 42
Since 2006 Where to Find Affordable HOTSPOT Houses ALERT! It’s not expensive to buy Why you should start pg hunting in RAWANG 43
Staying Married No Money, for Life No Experience? Bestselling author FAIZUL RIDZUAN THE shares smart ways MALAYSIAN to invest in properties GARDEN Own a home-grown concept to be proud of
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ContentsJuly-August 2012 | Redefining Edition COVER STORY The Affordable Life In the past decade, and more so in the past couple of years, rapidly 43 ON THE COVER escalating house prices have brought up the issue of affordable homes. But are rising prices all there is to the issue? With the help a few experts, FAIZUL RIDZUAN we de e dee er n o he e nd find o wh c n e done nd where shares his inspirations you can look for affordable properties. and journey in property investing.
Photography PROPERTY BILL CHEONG A Fine Collection Bulk Purchasing Properties 20 OSK Properties showcases their 40 – Is it Safe? award-winning collection of Learn the ropes of purchasing properties in properties including Pan’gaea @ nd find o he ood nd he d. Cyberjaya and much more. Faizul Ridzuan: Rawang: A Tin Town’s Journeying To 23 by 30 26 Emerging Potential 50 We speak to the man behind the bestselling This once small tin-mining town has ro er y n e men oo nd find o more transformed into a property hotspot about his inspiration behind it. in recent years.
Family, the Heart of a Home LIFESTYLE 36 It is not easy looking for the perfect The Last Lecture… home for your family. Fortunately, 54 and the most important one Sime Darby Property’s Medina in Unconventional methods of teaching Nilai Impian answers that very need. and learning are sometimes the way to go. It’s experiential.
I’d Read This 55 Books you’d like to check out Staying Married for Life 56 How sweet it is to see elderly couples still affectionate for one another. Enrich your 30 marriage and treasure it for life. Coming Home: Embracing Be Your Teens Role Model Your child learns from you. So lead by example and you’ll Nature’s 58 be able to connect to them well. Tranquility at Gita Bayu 10 Fun Things To Do With Fancy a resort-like Your Family lifestyle, with the 60 Jolly ideas you’d like to try out beauties that nature can offer yet close I’d Listen to That enough to the urban Recommended for your listening pleasure. lifestyle of the city? 63 o c n re find one Devialet D-Premier here in Gita Bayu in home m fier n e ny o her. Seri Kembangan. 64 See its beauty, or rather listen to it.
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contents3.indd 2 7/3/2012 11:19:40 AM Urban Living at its Best Precinct 11 is a stunning development created as a modern, well-planned, suburban haven with a backdrop of exquisite greenery. Having won the FIABCI Award for Malaysia’s Best Master - Planned Development, it’s a testament to the finest of urban living combined with nature, World-class amenities and facilities offer the best of contemporary lifestyle needs for work, education, recreation, comfort and convenience. Type A B C/D/E Lot Size 20’ x 70’ 22’ x 75’ 27’ x 86’/80’/87’ Built Up Area 2,127 - 2,240 sq ft 2,461 - 2,543 sq ft 2,831 - 3,078 sq ft Land Area 1,400 - 3,036 sq ft 1,650 - 2,875 sq ft 2,240 - 3,655 sq ft Rooms 4 bedrooms 4 bedrooms 5 bedrooms 3 bathrooms 3 bathrooms 5 bathrooms Price from RM 555,888 RM 647,008 RM 826,585 ContentsJuly-August 2012 | Redefining Edition
Silka Maytower Hotel and LIFESTYLE Serviced Residences Aims Have a Good Night to Set Benchmark for We spend at least a third of our lives Value-led Hotels 66 in slumber land, yet not many know how important a good bed can be for 16 National Achiever’s Congress our sleep. Bolster & Bedd can help you and Robert Kyosaki choose the perfect bed for your body. Malaysia International Carven Ong: Passion Property Investment for Fashion Showcase Red Carpet Edition 68 Named one of Asia’s Top 10 fashion designers, Carven Ong shares about his passion, his philosophy and how a Elephant Gate Groundbreaking woman can choose the perfect gown. 17 Pet Pet’s EasyStart Initiative The Malaysian Garden A garden concept rich with our very Building a Premiere Shopping 72 own culture and heritage yet able to Destination blend in with the lifestyles of foreign lands, now that’s something to be Taylor’s Architecture proud of. Degree Gets Accredited HAPPENINGS 18 P&G Partners with Olympic Council of Malaysia and Thank KONE’s People Flow 12 Mothers Solutions for Hatten City Energy Management and LBS Presents Keys Ahead Feng Shui of Schedule YEYLOL Unveils Smart Digital IJM Land Introduces Home System Powered Bandar Rimbayu by Microsoft 14 Canary Garden’s Inaugural Sales Preview REGULARS 6 Publisher’s Note/ 8 Letters Real Estate Directory 76 A useful list of organizations and bodies in the real estate industry.
WIN A 78 MM2H Guide Some basic information to making BOOK! Malaysia your second home. THE LATEST 79 Subscription Offer PROPERTY INVESTING BESTSELLER! PG42
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PUBLISHER’S NOTE
he value of life and living has been trailing further and further away and replaced by the price of living instead. The world civilization was rapidly transformed by the industrial revolution in the 18th and 19th century, where changes in agriculture, manufacturing, mining, transportation, and Ttechnology had a profound effect on the social, economic and cultural conditions of the time. It was contagious, spreading from the United Kingdom, throughout Western Europe, North America, Japan, and then the rest of the world.
So here we are in the 21st century and we may ask what contributes to the value of our lives today? Perhaps now is a good time to pause for a moment and think of what we depend on to be happy, proud, fied nd ec red e de n on c n e ny h n o on he r h r nc e re n ce nd wh more m or n wh we do in the journey to get there. The lack of real value may lead us nowhere, and as stress and depression creep in, programs like motivation talks, positive thinking and holidays will remain just as short term solutions while material gains, technological gizmos and marketing gimmicks will pass on as just fads that excite the rhythm of life temporarily. It is likely that all we need is just the right map to move on.
o n ee n o find n d rec on n e omefinder r o e h been molded towards enriching all who aspire towards a purposeful life and living, whatever the social circumstance may be. We will begin with the health of the heart at home, the relationships within your family. Embracing this mission, we have carefully handpicked specialists in their own right to give you valuable content to further strengthen and revive the foundations of your life and family.
For A This edition, we are happy that Focus On The Family Malaysia, a non- rofi or n on h h e een ro nd or 1 ye r nd re che o to 20,000 people yearly, has agreed to be our long-term friend. They will be talking about staying married for life, a life experience which every couple can relate to as me myself have always wondered about the Healthy secrets of successful marriages. Another article in this edition is about being a role model to your teenage children, some have confessed that h he mo d fic e o de w h ren nd d e n ce Family, to get insights that actually work. e d n c o er o he ro er y ron we e een he r n eo e grumbling about the expensive prices of property nowadays. There is ome r h n e he r why nd o where do we find ord e Healthy homes? no e we h e d n ro er y n e or nd author of the bestseller “WTF? 23 Properties By 30” on our cover. Find Society out how he went from zero to 23, and perhaps learn some secrets nd r on yo r fir ro er y we . nd oo o yo m h e en And A get a one-on-one session with the man himself by visiting us on Facebook and participating in our lucky draw. Autographed books are also up for grabs.
If you would like to suggest people or organizations you think would be he o o her hro h wr e n we d o e o he r rom yo . h said, I will leave you to your reading, and I hope that you will enjoy this Good ed on o omefinder nd e n Redefining Life and Li ing with us. Eddie Eddie Tan Life. CO-FOUNDER AND PUBLISHER
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Editor'sNote.indd 6 7/2/2012 2:51:59 PM
LETTERS Something I Didn’t Know Save I’ve been investing in property for Penang! years, but recently have seen a lot about Soho, Sovo and Sofo, Will there be more of these? Anyway, thanks for the article in your last edition on those mentioned type of properties, I guess I am more clear about how those properties can suit my investment. DAVID KWAN, JOHOR BAHRU
Resi is Dying! Knowing that the market is getting slightly slower, so at this juncture we just need to make an informed decision. Reading your last article about investing in Non – Residential Properties, the info and advises in I liked how you portrayed there was doing exactly that and it helped. Penang as a bubbling pot ARIF FAUZAN, KUALA LUMPUR in the last issue. I truly agree that the island has Useful been over developed at Loved a Story? certain spots, and is sadly Got an idea? killing the beauty of this We want to hear from you island paradise. I hope to see more of these articles, Email us at mailbox@ homefinder.com.my. to be more enlightened on Letters may be edited other places, like Penang. for length and clarity. Include name, age and Good tips! I never really paid contact details. B.C. LIM, SUNGAI PETANI that much attention to Debt Consolidation before but this was very easy to understand. e steps were insightful, showed me saving is also part of gaining. VINCENT MOH, PJ
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letters.indd 8 7/2/2012 1:17:16 AM pg9_Sunsuria Ad.pdf 1 7/5/2012 9:47:39 AM
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K Contributors CO-FOUNDER AND PUBLISHER Eddie Tan SR WONG WEN CHET B. Bus (Prop). MRICS, MISM, MPEPS, MMAPPM CO-FOUNDER AND MANAGING EDITOR Ivan Tan Sr Wong Wen Chet is the Managing Director of Oregeon ASSOCIATE EDITOR Property Consultancy Sdn Bhd. He is a Registered Valuer Bill Cheong & Registered Estate Agent recognized by Board of Valuers, SUB EDITOR Lawrence Julius Tiwol Appraisers and Estate Agents and been in the real estate WRITER industry for more than six years. He is also Committee Emilio Vergara Member of REHDA Youth under Real Estate and Housing CREATIVE & PRODUCTION Racheal Lenita Pricilla Developers’ Association Malaysia (REHDA).
EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT Stephanie Chia
SALES AND MARKETING Fatin Anirah SR LEE SHEAU HUEY
WEB & IT B. (Hons). Estate Management. MRICS, MISM, MPEPS, MMAPPM Mohd Aidil Reza Sr Lee Sheau Huey is the Director of Oregeon Property ADMINISTRATION Mohd Cazrin Consultancy Sdn Bhd. She is a Registered Valuer &
CONTACT US Registered Estate Agent recognized by Board of Valuers, m o homefinder.com.my ADVERTISEMENT Appraisers and Estate Agents. She has more than six years d er e homefinder.com.my CAREER of professional real estate experience mainly in research and c reer homefinder.com.my valuation of residential and commercial properties. ENQUIRIES en r e homefinder.com.my
PUBLISHER TTIEN Media Group Sdn Bhd (877188-K) FAIZUL RIDZUAN J-08-02, Solaris Mont Kiara, o. 2 n o r Faizul Ridzuan, 31, is a regular nine-to- ve employee, author 50480 Kuala Lumpur Tel: 603 – 6201 8337/9337 and property investor. He was a Computer Science major and Fax: 603 – 6201 6337 www.homefinder.com.my a graduate from Malaya University. Faizul has been investing in PRINTER Percetakan Skyline Sdn Bhd (135134-v) properties for six years now, and within ve years, had 23 properties o. 3 37 n 12 32 TSI Business Industrial Park, in his portfolio, which is now worth more than RM5 million. Batu 6 1/2, Off Jalan Kepong, 52100 Kuala Lumpur His success in property inspired his rst book release “WTF? 23
DISTRIBUTION Properties by 30” which was well received by the general audience MMS - Media Marketing Services Sdn Bhd and propelled to bestseller status at a number of bookstores, No 1, Jalan PJU3/45, nw y m n r echno o y r including MPH, Kinokuniya and Borders. Faizul is also a panelist 7 10 e n y e n or r h n. on a local internet property forum www.propertyWTF.com.my ome nder hed mon h y y where he actively expands his horizons and meets both new and TTien Media Group Sdn Bhd.
INDEPENDENT ENTITY seasoned investors. He is a fan of motorcycles. or he her n nde enden or n on no re ed o ny ro er y re ed er on or n on or oc on ro er y re ed com n e . he her o no c n ro y or ny ro er y re ed FOCUS ON THE FAMILY (FOTF) com n e . he her o n men o fic media, media partner or its variant is based on o fic ne re on h nd doe no ho d Founded by Dr James C. Dobson in the United States he her re ed com ny d ry com ny or r n . rod c nd er ce y in 1977, FOTF is a non-pro t organization with a he her re rendered r c y on ro e on ro nd nde enden rom he n ence o ny ro er y re ed com n e . clear vision – to strengthen families. From modest he her doe no r e n ny ro er y beginnings with a weekly radio program, they are now an re ed r n c on cond c ed y c en oc e or r n r rom c n on y he med ro d n he nece ry co er e international ministry with o ces worldwide, reaching med e o re nd d er emen ce. he her doe no n ny w y enefi mone r y more than two million people in 155 countries. ey from transactions occurred between seller(s) nd yer h r e rom he e ne re on h . jointly work with a wide network of professionals, from NOTE both the public and government sector – all dedicated to he ew e re ed n he r c e re he hor . hey do no nece r y re re en he ew o he her. he her no re on e or he the preservation of the family. statements or remarks made in the articles unless e re y ed.
PERMISSION AND REPRODUCTION e rod c on o ny r o materials is prohibited without the written THIS MONTH, WE ASK: erm on o he her. Roses are red, violets are blue, Connect with us on: Gorillas can’t swim, this is nothing new. HomefinderMalaysia We know property investing can yield, give us a clue, HomefinderMsia We’d like to know how homes made your dreams come true, this ycle ma ec ga r z e in s e a And if there’s an investment strategy that has worked for you,
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Contributor.indd 10 7/2/2012 11:05:35 AM TO KUALA LUMPUR / PUTRAJAYA
TO CHERAS / AMPANG / GENTING HIGHLANDS TO SRI PETALING
Endah Parade (Carrefour)
Technology Park Malaysia
TO JOHOR BAHRU / SINGAPORE
KM1_HomefinderMag_FA.indd 1 29/6/12 4:00:02 PM PROPERTY BUZZ LBS Present KONE’s Keys Ahead of Schedule Property developer LBS Bina Group Bhd under its subsidiary People Flow Seribu Baiduri Sdn Bhd, handed over the keys to unit buyers of Saujana business Park eight months ahead of schedule. e Solutions commercial development comprising two and three story shop o ces is set to be a prominent trade square within the self- For Hatten City su cient township of Bandar Saujana Putra. Saujana Business Park consists of 78 units of shop o ces with built-up areas from 3,266 sq. ft. to 9,201 sq. ft. e units, launched at RM184 per sq. ft., is today valued at RM275 per sq. ft. and is expected to continue escalating. Saujana Business Park has an estimated Gross Domestic Value (GDV) of RM62 million.
Hatten City in Melaka. IJM Land Introduces
KONE, a leading provider of elevator Bandar Rimbayu and escalators has won an order IJM Land Bhd introduced its Bandar Rimbayu township for o y eo e ow o on or he fir me med re ew or he new de e o men Hatten City, a mixed-use development on 29 May. Designed with an emphasis on sustainable project in the coastal city of Melaka lifestyles for residents and strong connectivity elements, in Malaysia. KONE’s solutions will be the project with an estimated gross development value of de ered o fi e ory ho n m RM11 billion is a mixed township spread over 1,879 acres and two 170-meter-high tower blocks close to Kota Kemuning. In conjunction with the launch of of luxury condominiums which are the development project, IJM Land also signed a Service currently under construction. Agreement with Telekom Malaysia Berhad (TM) for the The Silverscape residential tower provision of high speed broadband (HSBB) infrastructure will be the highest building in the in Bandar Rimbayu. At the signing ceremony, IJM Land was State of Malacca. represented by Dato’ Soam while TM was represented by Datuk Zaini Maatan, Vice President of TM Selangor.
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PROPERTY BUZZ Silka Maytower CANARY Hotel and Serviced GARDEN’S Residences INAUGURAL SALES Aims to Set PREVIEW Benchmark for Value-led Hotels
The rebranding of Silka Maytower Hotel & Serviced Residences, Kuala Lumpur - formerly known as Maytower Hotel & Serviced Residences - is expected to raise the bar in terms of customer services and guest expectations for value-driven hotels in the city. Opened in 2008, Silka Maytower Hotel & Serviced Residences, Kuala Lumpur has been a favorite with business and leisure travelers alike, particularly those seeking value accommodation with quality guest services.
Situated in the heart of one of Kuala Lumpur’s main commercial and entertainment districts, the hotel’s 193 well-appointed rooms and suites make it an ideal choice for exploring Malaysia’s popular tourist attractions, historical, modern and natural sights, shopping, street food, dining and local communities.
Silka Hotels offer affordable heart-warming accommodation with essential home-like comforts incorporated with innovatively designed space. For added Canary Garden’s Semi-Detached units. convenience, all rooms also come with a mini-bar featuring items sold at supermarket prices.
The much awaited 446-acre Canary Garden in Klang hosted its “While Silka Hotels offer the inaugural Sales Preview in May, opening up for registration to home perfect synergy in terms of buyers. Attracting many potential home buyers, many came to view the facilities, guest services and ro er y de e o men howc e. he cce fir re ew he d on location, it is more than just 12 and 13 May resulted in a great response from the public and is held comfortable accommodation and weekly on Saturday and Sunday from 9am until 5pm. Canary Garden is a convenient location as Silka Hotels premier RM3 billion property developments on this prime land is another also offer attractive shopping exciting project by KSL Holdings Bhd. discounts and service privileges for hotel guests via its Stay, Shop e re e ed h o r fir e re ew w re o nd n cce & Save programme,” pointed out with 72 units of Semi-Detached Link homes so well received that we had Kosmopolito Hotels International’s to open up another block of units for registration…,” said Patrick Khoo, President and Executive Director, Project Director of Canary Garden @ Bandar Bestari. Winnie Chiu.
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PROPERTY BUZZ
Artist’s impression National Achiever’s Congress of Elephant Gate. and Robert Kyosaki
The National Achiever’s Congress 2012 (NAC2012) celebrated its 20th Anniversary from 29 to 31 May at Sunway Pyramid Convention Centre. The keynote speaker for this year’s NAC was acclaimed bestselling author Robert Kyosaki known for “Rich Dad Poor Dad”, the number one personal finance book of all time. During the event, Robert talked about the importance of gaining financial education and living a financially free life, based on principals from his book and the cash-flow quadrant. Other guest speakers included Bill Walsh, Dr Sundardas Annamalay, Marcus De Maria, Steve Clements and many more. Elephant Gate The three-day event was well-received by over 3,800 delegates comprising of entrepreneurs, top management teams, students, members of the media and Groundbreaking business partners. e h n e y fir rem er lifestyle entertainment complex, has o fic y e n ro nd re n Kampong Pandan, Kuala Lumpur on 14 May. The multi-million dollar, 47,000 sq ft facility (located at No 12, Jalan Kampong Pandan) is home to 15 food and entertainment outlets.
As a premier lifestyle destination, Elephant Gate is conceptualized and committed to providing its customers and tenants with services and facilities of impeccable quality, with an ambience that is both vibrant and sophisticated right in Robert Kyosaki (Left) during NAC2012. the heart of the golden triangle. Given the varied range of F&B dining experiences set amidst unique landscaped surroundings; it’s the perfect venue for Malaysia International Property cozy indoor dining or alfresco dining Investment Showcase under the stars. Elephant Gate, with its charming settings and modern appeal, defin e y m or he oc nd Red Carpet Edition expatriates community - from families to working professionals, tourists and a re- e 43rd Malaysia International Property Investment Showcase, visit for members of RSGC (Royal Selangor Red Carpet Edition was recently held at the Mid Valley Exhibition Golf Club) in the evening. Centre. e annual event lasted from 23 to 24 June, and featured Connoisseurs can also look forward both local and international exhibitors. roughout the two days, to specialty cocktails, malt whiskeys, a exhibition goers were welcomed to sit in and listen to free seminars r n e o od nd fine w ne o ered featuring various topics such as investment and home defects. e by the clubs, pubs and bars at Elephant Gate. Be it dining or chilling out at the Home nder team had a booth here as well, and we were right next restaurants, cafes, clubs, roof bar and to the stage promoting our latest magazine and giving out freebies. nightspots, or an intimate walk along the open courtyards and pool - a myriad of pleasant experiences await you at Elephant Gate with a perfect view of RSGC and its surrounding skyscrapers
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HFN_VOL_42_HAPPENINGS2.indd 16 7/3/2012 10:32:20 AM LIFE WIRE
PET PET’S EASYSTART Celebrity Dynas Mokthar making an exclusive appearance at Hospital Ampang to personally present the Pet Pet EasyStart special pack to new mums. INITIATIVE
TAYLOR’S is fast growing diaper Building a Premiere brand is helping expectant Shopping Destination ARCHITECTURE and new mums through
Bintang Walk is the brainchild of YTL Corp’s DEGREE GETS its EasyStart Initiative, Managing Director Tan Sri Dr Francis Yeoh inspiring them to reach and works on it started some 13 years ago. ACCREDITED According to Yeoh, YTL bought Starhill Gallery out to other mums Taylor’s University reached a and Lot 10 in 1999 at a time when it a stark with the aim of making shadow of what it is today. milestone recently after garnering accreditation for its architecture the early stages of their “After careful studies I discovered that the degree from the Board of motherhood a little custom duties is the key consideration for Achitects Malaysia or Lembaga luxury brands and many Asian countries, with Arkitek Malaysia (LAM). LAM’s easier. e program is the exception of Singapore and Hong Kong, accreditation marks the official exclusively designed for impose high duties on luxury items,” said Yeoh. recognition of the Bachelor of Science (Hons) (Architecture) mothers with newborns This discovery prompted Yeoh to enter program offered by the School of below the age of three discussions with the government to turn Starhill Architecture, Building and Design Gallery into a tax-free mall and fortunately his (SABD) at Taylor’s University, which months, free of charge. application was approved four months later. has been assessed and accredited It o ers an exclusive 365 Yeoh then started wooing international luxury to have attained the approved brands and succeeded in getting LVMH to set standard required by the Council days worldwide coverage e h ore n . n n of Accreditation and Architectural low rental offer is one of its key advantages as and RM100 daily Education Malaysia (CAAEM). it allows the luxury brands to set up stores in lot hospitalization allowance sizes not feasible in other countries with much h her ren . h ome o he e h if the mother is con ned stores for many luxury brands, it is time for KL to to a hospital resulted from position itself as a premium global fashion hub. an accidental injury.
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HFN_VOL_42_HAPPENINGS2.indd 17 7/3/2012 10:32:21 AM LIFE WIRE Energy Management and Feng Shui Schneider Electric, global specialists in energy management hosted an event on 16 May themed “Inspiring Life & Space” to show how interior designers and developers can inject “Feng Shui” into a home, and how to “green” a building as well. Guests were treated to a talk by Feng Shui master Kenny Hoo and previewed energy enhancing innovations like the Wiser home Control System that can help conserve energy simply through a touch of a button.
Malaysia Olympic Diving Athlete 2012 and Malaysia National Sportswoman 2011, Pandelela Rinong and her mom, Pn. Hartini Binti Lamim were invited to share the announcement of P&G’s partnership with OCM today.
P&G PARTNERS WITH OLYMPIC COUNCIL OF Right: The YEYLOL MALAYSIA AND machine. THANK MOTHERS P&G is the company behind favorite brands YEYLOL Unveils Smart Digital such as Pantene, Head & Shoulders, Rejoice, Olay, Gillette, Oral-B, Duracell, Downy, Dy- Home System Powered by Microsoft namo, Pampers and Whisper. They now take it a step up by announcing a partnership to YEYLOL Technology Sdn Bhd launched its YEYLOL Smart Digital support the upcoming London 2012 Olympic Games on 15 June. P&G will sponsor the Home System on 21 June. It is an all-in-one device powered by next Olympic Games up to the 2020 Olympic Microsoft’s Windows Azure cloud computing platform. e YEYLOL Games. “…every Olympic athlete has a Mom Smart Digital Home System is speci cally designed to be easy to use and Moms are with their children every step for all family members, thanks to its friendly graphical user interface of the way, nurturing and encouraging them, and navigation features. Featuring a built-in karaoke system with and helping them realise their dreams. And while we are not in the business of sports, intelligent search, Blu-ray player, 19-inch digital photo frame, a two P&G is in the business of helping Moms,” terabyte encrypted hard disk, 9,000 licensed songs and a host of other said Ellie Xie, Country CEO of P&G Malay- applications, the YEYLOL Smart Digital Home System truly o ers a sia and Singapore. P&G also launched the revolutionary way for family members to spend quality time together. “Thank You Mom” campaign for the London 2012 Olympic Games. Another unique feature in the System is that content and applications are updated automatically via Microsoft’s cloud platform every time the device connects to the Internet.
18 y 2012 edefin n e
HFN_VOL_42_HAPPENINGS2.indd 18 7/3/2012 10:32:22 AM property HOME IS WHERE YOU LEARN TO LAUGH, TO SHARE, TO LIVE, “TO LOVE AND, TO FORGIVE. – ANON ”
INSIDE
c A Fine Collection c Rawang - A Tin-Town’s Emerging Potential c Coming Home c Family, the Heart of the Home c Bulk Purchasing Properties – Is it safe? c Faizul Ridzuan
property segment.indd 1 7/1/2012 7:49:22 PM Property A Fine Collection
ooking into the locker of a developer, you’ll nd that it is a good estimate of how well that company has progressed. One with a ne track record like OSK Property Holdings Bhd (OSKP) will likely blow you away with their line-up, one that Lwill always be an interesting a air to share and behold. Even more so if these projects are award- winning developments.
As you’d suspect, OSKP was once again recognized by the Asia Paci c Property Award for its innova- tive concepts and impressive architectural design in 2012. OSKP won in ve categories, namely Mixed Use Architecture, O ce Development (in- cluding the regional award), Commercial Redevel- opment and Residential Property Interior for its projects Pan’gaea, Paragon, Atria and Mirage by the Lake.
Keeping that in mind, here are OSKP’s winners, developments worth a hard and serious look. FINE A COLLECTION
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HFN_VOL42_OSK.indd 20 7/4/2012 5:33:38 PM A Fine Collection Property Best Mixed-use Architecture Malaysia PAN’GAEA
angaea [pan-jee-uh] was Featuring a spectacular high-rise a supercontinent that ex- tower- the tallest in Cyberjaya The Meticulous isted 250 million years so far – Pan’gaea is truly iconic. Architectural Plan ago,P long before the separation Stretching across some 16 acres of continents to form the world of freehold land, this modern, Create a centre of landmark stature as we know it today. is was integrated commercial and resi- he r n o ec e re med ow rd orm n ron oc or y er y o e h he ro ec the inspiration for Pan’gaea @ dential township includes four ndm r w h n he c y nd o cre e n e Cyberjaya, a development by service apartment (Solstice), nd r n c or m or en er nmen re OSKP. Pan’gaea envisions a two o ce towers ( e Para- nd en re rene r c e wh e cre n h h y de r e ce o e. “world in one place concept”, gon). Boutique shop o ce ( e where the diversities of modern Square), street malls ( e Pa- Create a celebrated pedestrian living are bought together un- tio), a shopping mall ( e Gal- experience der one common address, in a lery) and a resort hotel. o cre e e y c y w h n c y en ronmen nder c re y d o m er n. n e w city that ful ls the demands of e he her n o n or he eo e n y er y the present and paves the way nd hey wo d rr e he r de red de n on for the future. w ho h n he ro e o oo ro nd or end- n nnece ry me w h ey o n w h n he e ow de e o men . he c re e n e w r n orm 16 cre o y er y nd c e. Create active urban street environments er ence re choreo r hed n o e ence o e - c n nd y h r n ree re we ndoor nd o door en er nmen ce – ed o e her w h nd c ed rden h dd o he o er ee nd mo here o n e wor d. e d n n o he re den re en e o re e nd eren y cre- ed hro h he e o reen ce nd rden h order he commerc one .
Create a center of international business n e e re n n ern on c ho n nd en er nmen cen er w h ree m o e ho ho e nd ndm r o fice ower.
Create a high-end residential enclave n de re on e o od y h h dem nd or m o med m ed re den e he reeho d o - ce er ce r men ro de d er e r n e o home r n n rom one o hree e nd rem er 2 1 edroom d e e o wh ch come r- y rn hed.
re ch n 0 or e n o he y er y y ne o - ce ower re o ed o e mon he h he e n he we ern rec nc o y er y o er n nn n ew o com emen he re dence re- m er o er n .
Create a sophisticated and unique architectural character he e n e reen d n nde com- n c y n cro 16 cre o reeho d nd nd o nd o e e n we o r c rch ec- re nd conce n he who e y er y .
n dy c m ence cre ed h n o fi e cre o cen r r nd nd c ed reener e c ed y n r e h er e oc o n mon h h - y d n m de o o fice nd er ce r - men connec n he e emen n he ro ec .
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HFN_VOL42_OSK.indd 21 7/4/2012 5:33:42 PM Property A Fine Collection
Best Office Development Asia Pacific, PARAGON Best Office Development Malaysia
eneration Y is forming the targeting towards a successful work Paragon’s SOFO Suites come with majority of the workforce environment while maintaining a an additional improvement, featur- today, and they will only balance; supporting the growing ing modular layouts where two or grow.G is change challenged the dialogue between what the building more units can be interconnected. developer to conceptualize a fresh oers and what the users and busi- is makes the SOFO units here and futuristic approach to commer- nesses need. highly exible and able to accommo- cial o ce development. Paragon was date a wide variety of uses, be it cozy thus conceived as an architectural With a curvature-inspired façade, home or full-edged o ce. model of high e ciency and a green Paragon oers high exclusivity and and pragmatic plan for a new plan of privacy for its units, especially for Residents will nd that Paragon also o ce typology. By questioning and those on the higher oors. And features top-notch facilities like a rede ning the term “iconic”, Para- keeping sustainability in mind, the fully-equipped gym, sauna room and gon embodies the virtue of change. Green Building Index (GBI) com- a swimming pool encircled by a sun pliant building boasts a design that deck – all for that perfect morning With a strong belief in the impor- includes an internal void area and an workout or a refreshing and relaxing tance of a ‘Balanced Concept’, val- atrium that provides smooth ow- evening. ue‐adding to achieve eectiveness ing ventilation and inviting natural in a work environment, OSKP also lighting into the interiors. aim to minimize costs for higher ef- ciency as well. is core principle is Paragon @ Pan’gaea reeho d How to get there? nch r 2012 m ed com e on oord n e – 2 21 101 – 2 mon h rom 3 12 e re w y e hr y 1 6 n m n r chon or h – 03 o 1 3 0 o h en r n r y od r yo ow n wo n 1 re w y or o h n ey re w y or more n o e n ed 3 m rom o e e fice 2 m rom n o e – 26 o 26 0 ed c ed corr dor nd e c or ron n m n cce ro d c e – oo n dec y e ed ymn m e ow n room rden err ce r on c r re n red de. Pan’gaea @ Cyberjaya ed de e o men – er ced r men o e re o fice e ho n m re or ho e ree m 16 cre e e o ed y w n w dn hd d ry o ro er y o d n hd e r y men e – y er y erm n ro o ed re on y er y e rden
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HFN_VOL42_OSK.indd 22 7/2/2012 11:36:45 AM A Fine Collection Property Best Commercial Redevelopment Malaysia ATRIA
tria Shopping Centre opened ers. e development will be known its doors 30 years ago as one simply as Atria, a mixed develop- How to get there? of Malaysia’s premier subur- ment featuring a lifestyle shopping banA shopping malls in the Klang Val- mall and two ve-star SOFO (Small oord n e – 3 7 3 ley. oughts of the Atria Shopping O ce Flexi O ce) towers. 101 36 or h n ey re w y Centre in the 1980s evoke feelings m n r chon of nostalgia and fond memories of e redeveloped Atria will become the hw y re w y shopping in Printemps and Kimisa- single largest mixed commercial de- ench n eder hw y wa and tea dances at Piccadily Disco. velopment taking place in Damansara e n re w y Now, the legacy of Atria is poised for Jaya featuring approximately 660,000 er nch n revival in an exciting new era under sq ft of retail space and SOFO suites, 3 m o nd r m the development of OSKP. spanning across 5.5 acres. m o nd r nw y 16 m rom re w y OSKP is replacing the old mall with e futuristic architectural concept, 7 m o hw y a RM1 billion development that will layouts, technologies and facilities comprise of a ve-story retail podi- are set put the new Atria Damansara um beneath two 16-story o ce tow- a step ahead of the rest, o ering ex- How to buy? ceptional investment opportunities e er nd e d ed on new while pushing up values across the nche rom ro er y o d n Atria Damansara surrounding areas. hd www.o ro er y.com.my reeho d or c 603 2161 3322 ro m e y . cre e 3 2 n 2 oc
o 1 3 3 e ow he new nd refined r .
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HFN_VOL42_OSK.indd 23 7/2/2012 11:36:47 AM Property A Fine Collection MIRAGE BY THE LAKE Best Interior Design Show Home Malaysia
e know a “Mirage” exists in ture pieces, designer fabric selection roots of the project, time as the “pres- Cyberjaya, OSK Property’s of soft furnishings are amongst the ent” because the project is contempo- inspired 150,000 sq ft lake- many creations that one can expect rary and time as “future” because the side-livingW development. But what from the development. project anticipates future trends. en inspires the details of this “mirage”? there is “Space”; Space as “genius loci,’ OSKP wanted something re ned and Working together with Saporiti Italia, – the distinct local atmosphere, space elegant, something that is classy and for Mirage’s Show Villas, and their as an expression of “international cul- timeless. ey were searching for an creativity led to the development of ture,” deriving from Saporiti’s world- interesting and innovative but also ra- the rst ever cantilevered staircase in wide experience and those of the target tional design solution; a “classic of the Malaysia which looks like a oating clients, and space as “comfort” with all future” as it should be de ned. staircase, the rst made for Private the areas and details being ample and Luxurious Villas. comfortable for the residents. Saporiti Italia, a luxury brand cel- ebrated worldwide for their creative For the Show Condo, Saporiti Italia’s use of innovative materials and creative impulse proves fresh per- How to get there? unique manufacturing technolo- spective to urban lifestyle. One key gies will bring OSKP’s vision to life, feature in the kitchen is stretched oord n e – 2 101 bringing bespoke luxury to the show lighted ceilings that enhance space, 3 villa and condominium units of creating the feel of natural daylight. re w y or h o h en r n r y Mirage. Works of craftsmanship in- In the living room, custom made n o h n ey re w y cludes leather hand stitched furniture stucco walls in Venetian stucco cre- en y re pieces, Calacatta Marble made furni- ate a 3D e ect, with niches to dis- n play the most precious collections. 3 m rom 2 m rom Mirage by the Lake e vision was to have a totally Ital- reeho d ian Show Villa and Show Condo to Why buy here? 12.1 cre complement the prestige of the ar- 3 ory e chitecture and developer’s taste for ood men e nd c e w h n 3 n luxury home living. ese luxury vil- hor d nce ood c chmen o den nd – ro m e y las and condominiums targets home 733 o 7 wor n c o on owners who have “been around” and e e de e o er w h o nd n 3 ory rden have acquired a taste for the lifestyle. r c record 3 n w rd w nn n de e o men – 3 00 o 3 00 2 ory n ed e concept was inspired by time and 27 n space; Time as “history” re ecting the Below: A Mirage by – 2 700 o 3 200 the lake ondom n m 13 n 1 0 o 1 361
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Property Rawang
Bina Eksotik Sdn Bhd to Next Fortune Sdn Bhd in Taman Saujana Rawang (year 2011). This was preceded by the disposal of 38.15 acres of development land by Bedford Industrial Dev Rawang Sdn Bhd to Golden Masterpiece Sdn Bhd along Jalan Rawang-Batang Berjuntai (year 2010) A Tin-Town’s and the disposal of 22.15 acres by Shang Yong (Sabah) Sdn Bhd to Rentak Arena (M) Sdn Bhd Emerging Potential along Jalan Rawang Batu Arang (year 2010). By Wong Wen Chet and Lee Sheau Huey Located approximately 30 km to the north of Kuala Lumpur, Rawang is accessible via the nce a small but busy tin min- North-South Highway and Rawang trunk road. ing town, the quiet settlement of On June 2011, the KL-Kuala Selangor Express- Rawang located at the northern w y re w y w o fic y o ened part of Selangor is now a thriving linking Kuala Lumpur via Templer’s Park with territory with over 30,000 resi- the township of Ijok, creating an alternative dents.O Although tin mining was how the town road link. The expressway successfully short- got started, it no longer serves as the town’s ened the travelling distance between Kuala main activity. The town was always considered Lumpur, Rawang and Ijok, hence making it to have great potential due to high density of more feasible for Rawang residents to work development in and around the town area. in the city, and vice versa. Travelling by KTM (Keretapi Tanah Melayu) trains is also possible, Land transaction activity in Rawang has been via the KTM Rawang Station sited nearby the very aggressive. Mah Sing Group for example, Rawang town. SR WONG WEN CHET purchased two parcels of adjacent land mea- Sr Wong Wen Chet is the suring 157 acres in aggregate gross area in Apart from the improved accessibility, the sur- Managing Director of Oregeon Bandar Kundang in 2012. The group also ac- rounding amenities should also be taken note Property Consultancy Sdn quired Semai Meranti Sdn Bhd, the registered of. In year 2010 and beginning of 2012, Tesco Bhd. He is a Registered Valuer nd enefic owner o rce o con - Rawang and Aeon Rawang Shopping Centre & Registered Estate Agent ous development land within the Northern started their operation along Jalan Rawang and has more than six years Growth Corridor in Rawang, measuring ap- and Persiaran Anggun, Taman Anggun. Be- experience in the property proximately 225.7 acres (year 2011). Other sides that, there are also existing retail cen- eld and is also a Committee noticeable land transactions include the dis- ters such as Giant, Parkson, NSK Supermarket Member of REHDA Youth. posal of 37.91 acres of development land by and Mydin Store.
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The town of Rawang has always been known Data compiled (refer to Prices of Residential as one that possesses great potential, and Properties in Rawang) revealed that the resi- that potential is starting to show. There is no dential sector generally went on an upward way the gamers will miss the chance to poach trend in terms of pricing within the past few a piece of the Rawang cake. Mah Sing Group years for selected schemes within Rawang. and Glomac Rawang Sdn Bhd of Glomac Ber- Preferable schemes in Rawang, like Bandar had have already made their steps into the Country Homes, Kota Emerald, Taman Bukit town with projects M Residence Rawang and Rahman Putra (Mukim Rawang), Taman Bukit Saujana Rawang, respectively – both currently Rawang Jaya and Taman Rawang Perdana under construction as residential dwellings. e er enced n fic n ncre e hro ho Besides that, notable on-going or launched the years. projects are those such as Anggun City by Hong Bee Land, T-Park Land in Templer Park A total of 642 transactions were recorded (condominium) by MCT and Saffron Puteri for residential properties in the selected ar- Heights (3-story semi-detached houses) by eas from year 2009 to 2011. Out of the total r w n fi dn hd nd mer d w - transaction, Bandar Tasik Puteri possesses ap- ng (linked houses) by Guocoland. proximately 45% of the recorded transactions while the rest is equally distributed among the Located at the western portion of Rawang other remaining schemes. Year 2010 recorded is Bandar Tasik Puteri. It is a predominantly the highest number of transaction (266) com- residential town in character with very huge pared to 2009 (155) and 2011 (221), among the portion undeveloped land remaining. The selected schemes. ro ec w he med y c fic nd er- had (AP Land), which was acquired by Low In the commercial sector, Rawang Commercial Yat Holdings (M) Sdn Bhd in 2012. The group Centre (The Reef) for instance, a three-story now handles the entire business and under- ho o fice w h nd e o 1 6 0 w SR LEE SHEAU HUEY takings of AP Land – Bandar Tasik Puteri is transacted at RM745,000 in 2009. The selling Sr Lee Sheau Huey is the one of them. With Low Yat Group taking over price then rose at least 30% in year 2010 rang- Director of Oregeon Property Bandar Tasik Puteri, several projects were ing between RM980,00 to RM1,300,000. It then Consultancy Sdn Bhd. She is a planned and launched at Garden Heights, further increased between RM1,100,000 to Registered Valuer & Registered Bandar Tasik Puteri, such as low-rise residen- RM1,460,000 in 2011. Estate Agent with more than tial dwelling units. six years professional real estate The Low Yat Group recently launched a experience mainly in research The recorded sales of existing residential residential project called Garden Heights in and valuation of residential schemes in Rawang are as follows. Bandar Tasik Puteri Rawang with double- and commercial properties.
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man Desa Mas Rawang, a joint venture proj- ect by Desa Mahumas Sdn Bhd and Proven Development and Construction Sdn Bhd was launched at the price of RM295,000 onwards for a 1,300 sq ft terrace house.
Other than the ones mentioned above, some higher-end projects have also been launched. Zero-lot bungalows known as Zara by Glomac Berhad (3,600 sq ft) was launched at a price of RM776,000 onwards and Saffron Puteri Heights semi-detached houses (3,600 sq ft) were priced from RM690,000 onwards. Guoco Land Malaysia, a member of the Hong Leong Group launched their projects at Emerald Rawang which were two- and two-and-a-half- story terrace houses between 1,920 sq ft to 2,080 for a price of RM748,800 onwards. Ang- gun City semi-detached houses by Hong Bee Land was launched at RM688,000 onwards for a 3,000 sq ft unit.
story terrace houses (18’ x 75’) priced from With the improved accessibility, amenities and RM290,000 and low-rise apartment units entertainment element present in town such priced from RM72,000 (bumi units). On the as the TGV cinema in Aeon Rawang Shopping other hand, Mah Sing Group and Glomac Centre, Rawang is progressively turning itself Berhad have also launched their projects into a self-sustainable township with great (terrace houses) which are priced between ability to continuously attract developers and RM582,800 (22’ x 80’) and RM428,888 (22’ x residents from across the Klang Valley. With 70’), and above. T-Park Land Condominium by so much activity in the mix, there is no-doubt MCT was launched at a price of RM370,000 h w n fin y re n r e n re for a built-up of 1,210 sq ft, while Aveda Ta- and potential.
Prices of Residential Properties in Rawang Size No. of No. of No. of Scheme Type 2009 2010 2011 (SF) Transaction Transaction Transaction BANDAR COUNTRY 2-Story Terrace House 1,076 120,000 - 180,000 8 102,000 - 160,000 22 100,000 - 198,000 27 HOMES 2-Story Terrace House 1,300 100,000 - 175,000 8 120,000 - 200,000 23 110,000 - 240,000 26 2-Story Terrace House 1,345 185,000 - 185,000 2 173,000 - 180,000 2 200,000 - 220,000 6 2-Story Terrace House 1,400 163,000 - 180,000 3 134,000 - 192,000 7 130,000 - 230,000 6 Kota Emarald 2-Story Semi-D 3,605 450,000 - 450,000 1 460,000 - 460,000 1 510,000 - 512,000 2 Kota Emarald (Anggun) 2-Story Semi-D 2,400 N/A - 450,000 - 506,000 3 493,000 - 620,000 2 2-Story Semi-D 2,626 495,000 - 495,000 1 515,000 - 560,000 8 540,000 - 612,500 6 Rawana Park 2-Story Terrace House 1,300 165,000 - 250,000 3 160,000 - 200,000 6 173,000 - 290,000 4 Taman Bukit Rahman 2-Story Terrace House 1,400 N/A - 220,000 - 380,000 19 250,000 - 430,000 16 Putra (Mukim Rawang) 2-Story Terrace House 1,650 N/A - 320,000 - 420,000 12 320,000 - 563,000 8 2-Story Semi-D 3,200 580,000 - 750,000 8 660,000 - 745,000 6 818,000 - 950,000 6 2.5-Story Semi-D 1,916 460,000 - 550,000 4 485,000 - 580,000 4 550,000 - 680,000 5 Taman Bukit Rawang 2-Story Terrace House 1,650 130,000 - 200,000 5 133,000 - 245,000 11 150,000 - 280,000 15 Jaya Taman Rawang Perdana 2-Story Terrace House 1,300 120,000 - 180,000 14 110,000 - 190,000 21 120,000 - 250,000 18 2-Story Terrace House 1,400 140,000 - 235,000 16 115,000 - 250,000 11 160,000 - 330,000 12 Bandar Tasik Puteri 2-Story Terrace House 1,044 45,000 - 155,000 49 80,000 - 160,000 49 76,000 - 140,000 27 1,119 80,000 - 142,000 17 80,000 - 160,000 22 130,000 - 150,000 6 1,173 71,000 - 150,000 12 75,452 - 161,000 28 100,000 - 175,000 17 1,496 106,000 - 175,000 4 100,000 - 175,000 11 120,000 - 180,000 12 155 266 221
Oregeon Property Consultancy Sdn Bhd 977751-A
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ComingEmbracing Nature’s HomeTranquility at Gita Bayu magine driving up tree-lined roads that lead you home after a hard day’s work, and as you pass through the welcoming entrance and greeted by friendly personnel , a sense of calmness sets in you as the bustling sounds of the concrete jungle are left behind. You leisurely pull through more foliage that genuinely feels like works of Mother Nature herself, and nally up the driveway to your home that reminds youI of your nostalgic days in the “kampung”, only more sophisticatedly built. Seems a little farfetched doesn’t it, especially in this day and age of urban living?
Above: Gita Bayu presents its residents with a calming atmosphere among lush greenery.
Right: The clubhouse is inspired by Balinese and Thai architecture, designed by world renowned architects.
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How to get there? 1 30 m n e rom y erem n Highway or Besraya Highway er he ne he n on d n o 3 m n e o h hw y
THE NATURAL LIFE
is enchanting ambience of leave troubles behind and truly returning to a place where you come home. ey can live one can truly call home and where with nature and experience a you can leave your worries at the peaceful and relaxing lifestyle. gates doesn’t merely exist, but is is is the vision of its founder, one that you can experience right Alex Lim” states Andre Keller, here within the Klang Valley. CEO of Gita Bayu adding that this vision is embodied in their Conceptualized and realized new tagline, “Coming Home”. over a decade ago, Gita Bayu is a unique residential enclave He also shares his own experience that is not only enveloped in of waking up to the songs of the lush forest greenery but also birds and rustling leaves every one that exudes a luxurious and single morning. It is like being tranquil lifestyle. One would in a remote countryside. Draw feel they are transported to a open the curtains and you’re distant, more pleasant world, immediately blessed with rays yet surprisingly, this 118-acre of morning sunlight squeezing wonder sits just a stone’s throw through the jungle trees which away from the big city, being some are as old as 40 years.With tucked away serenely on a hilly such thick greenery shading the landscape in Seri Kembangan. entire landscape, temperatures are generally lowered by two to Originally a rubber plantation, three degrees making an outdoor sights of its once ecological jog seems so much more inviting past is still abundant despite even in the mid-afternoon. it now being developed with just over 350 nature-inspired Although lifestyle is emphasized, homes. e creator of Gita the up-market homes here at Bayu believes in embracing Gita Bayu are nothing to sco nature instead of tearing down at either. Having launched their the beauty of the land to make rst phase in 1996, the original way for a development master- plan gave owners the leeway to Achievements plan. is of course has paid design their own home from nner o c w rd or e e den o with Gita Bayu sweeping the ground up. Taking a stroll e e o men 2003 several prestigious awards in- around, you will be awed by cluding FIABCI’s Award for some of the uniquely designed nner o e Best Residential Development bungalows, each a symbol of its nd c n or o e e or o r m om e and Winner of Best Landscap- owner’s identity. en, there are e ory 2003 ing for Hotel/Resort/Tourism the Hill Villas which are situated Complex Category in 2003. on higher grounds, the town- hor ed or he n ern on h n houses called the Town Villas w rd e den “When you buy a home here, which give a resort chalet-like e ory – 2003 you are not simply buying a ambience amongst shady leaves, physical house but also buying and of course the cluster bunga- into a vision where people can lows known as the Garden Villas.
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EV_HFN_VOL42_GITA_.indd 31 7/2/2012 11:15:08 AM Property Coming Home
h dy ree ow he hy o door ro ny me o d y.
y yo r e w h he r y me wh en oy n he com ny o n re
en he oo h ne e and Thai inspired architecture.
Certainly, this dream of a lifestyle public. ankfully, Gita Bayu ac- Gita Bayu would not be complete without com- commodates special functions at parable resort-like facilities and more their multipurpose hall or their oat- Current Developments importantly rst-rate service. At the ing stage on the lake. Imagine the di- 20 n ow o yer to build their own bungalows heart of Gita Bayu sits its pride and vine walk towards the pedestal at the 100 n o own joy, a clubhouse that boasts a Bali- edge of the gleaming lake and saying 31 n o rden nese and ai inspired architecture by your “I Do” with your soon-to-be n o world-renowned architects, Lek Bun- life partner. nag and Bill Bensley. Complete with a Future Developments dining pavilion in an open-air veran- nd d y de ned dah surrounded by soothing sounds HOSPITALITY FOR bungalows from water features, a gymnasium, a THE COMMUNITY ondom n m quiet reading room on the top oor ho e and of course an in nity swimming e developers of Gita Bayu takes Facilities – n n on pool overlooking one if its two man- so much pride in their creation of swimming pool, gymnasium, made lakes, this would undeniably be this modern day Eden that they have multipurpose hall, reading room, an afternoon well spent just soaking chosen to fully manage and run it tennis and basketball courts, up the sunlight as well as the sounds on their own, thus fostering a closer o n w n r c ro nd of nature. relationship with the community of he 2 e o er m o h dy residents which is made up of a good roads, children’s playground “It’s really a sight to see, these resi- mix between the quietly a uent lo- nd oo fie d o n e. dents getting together on weekend cal businessmen, professionals as nights at the restaurant as part of a well as expatriates. Nearby Amenities – ne friendly community,” says Andre. ho n en re ne on der nd o h y Having traveled to many countries ce o he o den or e While the facilities here are generally in his past appointments, Andre’s e n or r eon catered for its own residents, such a extensive exposure to the service in- her e n n waste it would be if the atmosphere dustry is now put into practice here at this haven is not shared with the at Gita Bayu.
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Precious trees within Gita Bayu
Rain Tree or Hujan Hujan African Mahogany Rubber Tree Botanical name: Samanea saman Botanical name: Khaya Senegalensis Botanical name: Hevea Brasiliensis v r e re d n ree or o erhe d v en n ed h de ree v orm y r o one o y o de shade v Widely used as a streetscape tree rubber estates v e fine ro d de en e n v n row o 30 me er h h w h v er ree n y re o d v n y e or r e rden nd r r n d me er o one me er 30 – 0 ye r
“We are moving towards being a at the top of a hill called e Peak. it is quite the opposite. Gita Bayu is more service oriented company here at’s not the only community activ- conveniently located alongside two at Gita Bayu as I believe develop- ity as there is also a residents’ board major highways – the KL-Seremban ment is not about building houses, where residents themselves plan ac- Highway and the Besraya Highway, but a community” says Andre add- tivities and festival celebrations for which takes you up north into KL ing that plans to improve the res- the entire population of Gita Bayu. within 15 minutes on a clear day taurant, introducing shuttle service, and south all the way to Seremban. even a concierge service is already in Frequent yers would also nd no the pipeline. CAREFREE AND hassle travelling just over 30 min- CONVENIENCE utes to KLIA and LCCT via the e dedicated sta of Gita Bayu is ELITE Highway. evidently of utmost importance to Being an exclusive and up-market this direction. But what’s more re- gated and guarded community, Daily shopping needs are also an- markable is the sight of the manage- needless to say security is para- swered through the many amenities ment team themselves getting their mount. With friendly yet attentive nearby including the Mines Shop- hands dirty making sure everything guards patrolling the vicinity round ping Centre, South City Plaza as well is in place. Even as CEO, Andre still the clock, it is no surprise that Gita as a host of shop lots. Education for pays attention to each and every tree. Bayu has never had a break-in. In the young ones is also taken care of He even sadly points out a withered fact, residents’ con dence is mir- with the Alice Smith International tree which was unknowingly poi- rored in each every home, with none School and Australian International soned recently. having huge cage-like gates unlike School close by. the conventional houses we know of. As for the residents here, indeed they Inspired by a vision of resort-style are a living and friendly community. So, with such great atmosphere, you living in harmony with nature, yet Andre shares of some residents who would think it is far out in the coun- supported by the many urban conve- organize a “tai chi’ morning session tryside of some rural area. In truth, niences within its proximity, it is no wonder owners themselves choose to live here. Over the years, Gita Bayu You can celebrate your most cherished moments with r end nd m e he o n e on he e. has grown tremendously from its humble beginnings, be it the tangi- bles within or its value. Whether you are seeking tranquility, convenience, luxury or another good investment, Gita Bayu could just be the place you can truly say you are ‘Coming Home’.
For more on how you can be part of the community at Gita Bayu, call +603-8945 5560 or visit www.gitabayu.com
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EV_HFN_VOL42_GITA_.indd 33 7/2/2012 11:15:15 AM Transforming the architecture of Kajang
or decades, the neighbourhood of Kajang has road leading up to this promise of new life in Kajang. From Jalan Bukit Angkat to the endured a dubious reputation. The consequence township entrance, the way was paved of being a medium end and highly saturated with tree-lined, landscaped roads that F were fin y m de dr e. nco r ed residential area, housing generation upon generation. by this streetscape, neighbours gradually spruced up their compounds.
As the population escalated, so did the The 366-acre township has since created crime rate. Understandably, given the lack a new skyline in Kajang. Recognising that of security and premium homes. The infra- many living in Kajang sought a better envi- structure then could not support growing ronment, one that is safe and surrounded r fic nd h w com o nded y oor by lush green, Gamuda Land went on to drainage, not to mention the lack of foot- craft a holistic masterplan with a distinc- paths, cycling paths and multi-lane roads e y reen fin er r n o recre e n for residents and daily commuters. Besides in Kajang with emphasis on nature, safety housing, Kajang is a factory-dense indus- and luxury. Central to luxury is a residents’ trial zone with pockets of bleak urban land- clubhouse featuring a contemporary scape, unkempt green and inhospitable Chinese teahouse, Olympic-sized pool hot spots. and gym.
In 2008, it all changed for this neglected red c ed en n nd ne r y neighbourhood when acclaimed developer loyalists quickly upgraded to Jade Hills. Gamuda Land resolved to reinvent the area by developing Jade Hills. Purchasers shared their surprise from the moment they drove in, saying they never he fir e r n orm on o re n en - imagined such quality living in this area. ing the Kajang area was building the access Their mindset and expectations changed
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in an instant. “No longer is there a stigma an anchor tenant, an array of conveniences huge growth not only for Jade Hills but for of Kajang being a small, unappealing town. and spaces for work. It is destined to be a the surrounding area as well. Jade Hills has raised the bar.” “Relatives vibrant hub for residents and visitors alike. and friends now envy their luxurious life- The Kajang transformation continues as style.” These were common comments. Also in the town centre will be Jade Hills’s its real estate value climbs from the halo fir nd on y er ce r men d e effect of Jade Hills. Further enhancing the This shift in perception has increased the Suites – 4 blocks of modern apartments value of Jade Hills is Gamuda Land’s plan to number of buyers whose comfort zone expected to make a change in Jade Hills’s build an alternative link road that connects is far from Kajang. People, not just those re den rofi e. the township with existing roads from Sun- from around, are more and more exposed gai Besi and Kajang, offering residents and o he ood e. ec on h e ne er The management anticipates residents of visitors of Jade Hills more ease. Talks are been higher. Jadite Suites to be young couples or fami- underway to explore a toll free status giv- lies. It is an option for newlyweds who want ing commuters a choice of bypassing the Today, 4 years since its launch, Jade Hills he r fir home nd r cy w ho e n tolled route. is geared to step up their game. Adding too far from their family home; a growing to the township’s lavish collection of con- trend observed by many developers, espe- Jade Hills is an award-winning township temporary homes, lush landscaping and cially in the Klang Valley. that has won the Malaysia Landscape Ar- resort-style amenities is the Jade Hills Town ch ec re w rd 2010 or ce en nd- Centre, a commercial parcel comprising Now not only will residents enjoy lush liv- scape Planning and Development. It was everyday conveniences such as grocery ing, but also added convenience. For inves- awarded by the Institute of Landscape Ar- stores, boutiques, cafés, a music school, tors, the town centre opens up new busi- chitects Malaysia (ILAM). spas and more. The town centre will also ne nd n e men o or n e . r y e re 3 nd orey ho o fice m - subscribers now enjoy no less than 65% ing it a natural choice for those seeking a capital appreciation and the town centre workplace near to home. is projected to boost this percentage many times fold. Gamuda Land observes that the For more information, h own cen re de ned o e he fir mix between residential and commercial of its kind in Kajang with boulevard shops, h ro en o e rofi e nd ore ee please call +603 8737 0122
JadeHill.indd 3 7/4/2012 2:31:24 PM Property Family, the Heart of a Home
Abundance of parks and playgrounds at Nilai Impian.
house is not a home with- out family; so the saying goes. With an upsurge in land prices within the city The Medina homes feature simple yet elegant designs. andA smaller-sized units being the trend now, it might be di cult for a typical household of four or ve to actually experience family living com- fortably, like how it should really be.
Fret not, for the young and thriving township of Nilai Impian, located in Nilai, just south of KL City, could just Family, be the perfect place for the perfect fam- ily. First launched in 1997, the “Lake the Garden Township” has seen a recent eart increase in activity after the integra- tion of the property arms of the for- mer Golden Hope Plantations Berhad, of a Kumpulan Guthrie Berhad and Sime ome Darby Berhad over four years ago. EnrichingH family living at Nilai Impian Sime Darby Property has transformed the focus of Nilai Impian from indus- trial developments to more residential developments. Now this 1,263-acre of freehold land is home to about 5,000 people, mostly owner occupiers and that number is expected to double by the time it is fully developed.
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Creating homes as how it should be, Nilai Impian now has several residential development projects, namely Davina 2, Davina 3, and its most recent, Medina. And since all Iluna houses here are landed, you can for- get about being boxed up in a little pigeon hole amongst more concrete sq ft for corner units. Incorporating high-rises. ere is also the Impian large windows and sliding doors, one Avenue shop-o ces within the town- would be able to enjoy the much Nilai Impian ship catering to the daily shopping needed comfort from natural lighting Located in Nilai, Negeri Sembilan and dining needs for the community. and ventilation in his own home. Ad- Freehold, 1,263 acres ditionally, with an open layout con- 50% developed, Similar to other Sime Darby Property cept that connects living and dining Population – 5,000 developments here, the latest Medina spaces, it simply makes the interiors Current developments double-story linked homes marry mod- perfect for a conducive family living. – Davina 2, Davina 3, and ern architecture with traditional charm. Iluna (Limited units left) Launched in early April, it showcases is spatial element is not only limited Medina (Selling fast) an artistic design with features such as to the interiors as each of the homes Impian Avenue (Sold out) di erent roof angles and planes – great is large enough to accommodate up Medina for those who wish for a simplistic yet to two cars under their porches. For 2-story terrace, 338 units well-designed place to call home. those who prefer a seamless ow be- 3+1 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms tween the indoors and outdoors, cor- Land area – 20’x72’, Spaciously constructed, the three- ner units here feature a balcony for its Built-up – 1,921sf to 1,984sf plus-one-bedroom and three-bath- family area on the rst oor. It also has Open layout concept, room Medina homes come in two a dining area that opens out to the gar- connected living and variants, both with a land area of 20 den terrace, making the atmosphere dining space From RM416,888 ft by 72 ft and a built-up of 1,921 during functions at home a much sq ft for intermediate units and 1,984 more cheery one.
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Right: Open layout concept makes the living and dining area a central spot for the family.
How to get there? GPS Coordinates – N2°50’31”, E101°48’42” Via KL-Seremban Highway, take the Nilai exit Via LEKAS Highway, take the Nilai/Pajam exit 40 minutes from KL City 30 minutes from KLIA via ELITE 30 minutes from Putrajaya or Cyberjaya via PLUS or ELITE
Why buy here? Landed properties great for family at a lower price compared to the city area Well planned and sustainable township Priced from RM 416,888, Medina will follow Good amenities – retail outlets (Tesco & Giant), in the footsteps of its not-too-distant prede- family parks and lakes for healthy outdoor life cessors, targeting the middle-income group. It style, colleges and universities o ers homebuyers the opportunity to own a Good connectivity with many highways simple but elegant home at a much lower price including PLUS, KL-Seremban Highway, LEKAS, compared to a similar landed one in the city. ELITE and SILK. And what’s more, being part of the booming Reputable developer in building sustainable town of Nilai, rest assured that there will be a communities which has been proven by having handsome capital appreciation in the long run. built nine remarkable townships Located in the Nilai growth area, potential Nilai Impian presents its community with a re- for appreciation laxing ambience yet also an active outdoor life- Mostly owner-occupied style for the whole family. Complete with two picturesque landscaped lakes and an abundance of playgrounds and parks, plus a web of pedestri- Suitable for? an walkways and bicycle paths for a scenic stroll, there’s no reason for not spending a little more Families, young and old precious time with your loved ones anymore. Those working within the southern parts of KL including Putrajaya and Cyberjaya While many would simply presume Nilai as College and university workforce being too far away from the city, in actual fact it is just over a half hour’s drive into KL City. How to buy? at’s almost as long as from any other suburb of KL with the daily rush-hour jams. And since Visit Nilai Impian Sales Gallery: you will be using the KL-Seremban Highway, Jalan Nilam 2, Off Jalan Mutiara there is no need to tediously plan your daily Nilai Impian, 71800 Negeri Sembilan travelling times. Call +606-794 1040/1041 or surf on to www.simedarbyproperty.com Since Nilai Impian is situated in the southern fringes of Greater KL, it is equally convenient travelling to the nation’s administrative capital
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of Putrajaya as well as Cyberjaya, the ternational students making up the A township with the family as its Multimedia Super Corridor (MSC) population of Nilai. Educational in- focal point, Nilai Impian imparts a status city via the ELITE highway stitutions here include two of Malay- lifestyle that brings us back to the or South Klang Valley Expressway sia’s premier colleges, namely Nilai basics of family living, one that is (SKVE). Better news yet for fre- University College and INTI Col- slowly lost through the hustle and quent yers as the journey to the KL lege, Universiti Sains Islam Malaysia, bustle of the big city. Well connect- International Airport (KLIA) or the International Islamic University of ed and cleverly planned, residents LCCT is anything within 20 minutes Malaysia as well as a nursing college. here will never nd it too far from to half an hour. ere are also many On top of that, Britain’s premier Ep- major destinations. With a keen eye other travelling options including som College is also set to open their for down-to-earth yet excellently- the SILK and Maju Expressways, rst institute outside of England designed homes and experience in KLIA Link Road and the Kajang- here. With such variety, families with creating townships, Sime Darby Seremban Highway (LEKAS). maturing kids will not need to look Property has again realized a dream far for a wholesome education. for many with Medina. Of course it is not all about easy travelling. A self-sustainable town on its own with a whole lot more to come, Nilai has proven itself a worthy option among homeowners. Residents here will never be too far away from shopping or entertain- ment needs as there are several ma- jor retail outlets here including Gi- ant and Tesco hypermarkets, Nilai 3 Wholesale Centre as well as many other shopping arcades.
Nilai is also famed for being an edu- cation hub. Driving around, you may nd that other than young fam- ilies, there is also a community of in- Davina 2
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EV_HFN_VOL 42_MEDINA.indd 39 7/4/2012 2:33:18 PM Property Bulk Purchasing Properties – Is it safe? Bulk Purchasing Properties IS IT
SAFE?By Faizul Ridzuan
n the last 12 months, there has been Discounts – dd on 1 o 3 re a growing trend of individuals and discounts since there are several buyers 1 buying from the same group. groups organizing bulk purchases of properties from developers. Bulk buying is basically an activity that Easy ownership – ero or ow down allows few or many property inves- payment schemes, to help the purchasers 2 from the group to buy this property using tors to invest in a single development as a Igroup. More often than not, buyers partici- as minimal cash as possible. pating in bulk purchases are often promised m ny dd on enefi h won e - Knowledge – orm y here w e able should they choose to invest individually. previews held by the group for their members, to discuss the property and its Sounds good, right? Unfortunately, it is not 3 prospects. as simple as it looks, well at least in my per- sonal opinion. In this article, I wish to highlight Leverage on network – e wor n w h both the pros and cons of bulk buying, and would-be buyers of the said development. perhaps offer a few other options to consider. This allows one to leverage on other more 4 e er enced n e or now ed e nd THE GOOD potentially reduce risks. e m ne or wh e yo re fi h mon- Exclusiveness – ome me he e er od y. here ron o y h groups get a preview of the project before you would be standing from morning to noon the public does, via private showings orga- e n 100 fi h o 100 c omer . wh 5 nized by the group. one guy approaches you early in the morning and offer to buy all your 100 fi h en he w n ood In my book, I have mentioned the importance of d co n yo mo e y networking and how I have tremendously ben- consider since he is helping efi ed y e n n he RIGHT network. The key “Quantity, you clear your stock faster. here is to be in the right network. I need to stress has a quality of its own” o n e d o end n fi e o here that if you are in the wrong network that ho r o fin h e n 100 organizes bulk buying, it can cost you big time. – Joseph Stalin fi he – yo c n now e n You do not want to be the part of the herd that 10 minutes. is heading towards the slaughter barn. The fol- ow n re re on why don e o e r o he fi h mon er o e he de e o er. n bulk purchases: business, how fast you clear your inventory matters. This can make or break businesses. The faster they can clear their existing stock, THE 3 H’S the faster they can move on to the next project 1– HYPE, HASTE, HERD and make more money. This is especially true Hype : Sometimes in order to sell units, or de e o er . here ore no r r e why group members will be told by the group leader a lot of developers love group purchasers as h hey c n e ec o n he y rofi er they can transfer their risk to the buyers and ew ye r . n od y oom eo e end o e then move on to the next big thing. They will very excited especially when they themselves or e more nc ned o d c e e erm o the people they know have made good money rch er . mon ome o he enefi o o ro er e . hey h n h a participant of group purchasing can poten- and combine that with a few more ecstatic mem- tially enjoy are: er yo h e ery e hor c e on.
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Haste : When people get excited, good practices FAIZUL RIDZUAN is your everyday man, like research are normally thrown out the win- though he is also a book author and property dow. y fir h n er ecome he m n r of the day. To get people to commit, some devel- investor. He bought his rst property in 2006, o er w m e ec h d y on y o er e and now has a portfolio of more than RM5 DIBS (Developer Interest Bearing Schemes) which million. He is the author of instant bestseller means no interests during construction period, e d nd hone nd e c – o e “WTF? 23 Properties by 30”. people as little time to think as possible.
Herd : We are all humans and we never like to POTENTIAL be different. You can remain calm and logical, but VESTED INTEREST emo on c n w n h n o er. en yo 4 h n h he de e o men o y one yo OF ORGANIZERS TO start doubting yourself when you see everyone PUSH FOR SALE y n h de e o men e here no omor- Some of the organizers of such group purchases row. r ne e o er nd e ore yo are licensed real estate agents or agency own- now yo re nd n he co n er n er . h m y me n h here o y down oo n ee on ro er y yo re no that developers will need to pay them commis- 100 con nced whe her w e ood y. sion for each successful sale. If you ask a sales person if the product he is selling is any good, Dan Rather once said “Once the herd starts mov- ch nce re hey w e yo ood rod c . n n one d rec on ery h rd o rn e en Who in the right frame of mind will go out and h y . co dn ree more. admit that the product their selling to you sucks big time?
THE DISCOUNTS Does this mean that all bulk purchase groups 2 OFFERED WEREN’T REAL are bad and should be avoided completely? Based on my limited observation, most of the dis- h no wh m e n . rch e co n o ered weren re . o r e h e and joining investors clubs certainly has its ben- us use condominium X as an example. Condo- efi . c n hor en one e rn n c r e. one m n m h 3 oc 1 2 nd 3 . ho dn ne ec he r own re e rch e- cause someone out there tells you that some a. Block 1 was sold at RM500 psf, and it is project is a good buy. Whether buying individually fully sold out. or with group, you still need to perform your own b. Block 2 was sold at RM550 psf, and it is re e rch nd d e d ence. on e he hy e also sold out. h e nd herd n ence yo . o m e yo r c. oc 3 now e n h w ed 6 0 own man (or woman) as this is your hard-earned psf to the group purchasers, and still has money on the line. m ny n o d n he 6 0 considered by many seasoned investors as There are many free mediums out there to help over-valued. one do their own due-diligence, especially online. Internet property forums like propertyWTF.com. n order o mo e oc 3 ome ro w come my and forum.lowyat.net are very useful, inex- and negotiate with the developer to give them pensive research platforms. With few thousand y 10 d co n . e en 10 he ro members in these sites, you can expect decent members will still pay RM585 per sq ft, much n orm on en y he or mer nd con r - more than what the buyers of block 1 and 2 paid or . hey ho d e e o d n fic n y n for their units. Hence, they will be in an inferior your decision making process prior to joining any position to compete with the earlier buyers in bulk buying sessions. the future. y on ne or m o o er n fic n ne wor - HEFTY COST TO ing opportunities through regular meet ups of its r c n . h e er on y enefi ed y o n n 3JOIN THE GROUP some of these meet-ups, and had the privilege to Most of these groups and individuals organizing know other property investors with over RM100mil bulk purchases normally charge their members in their portfolio. They can often offer you a different good money before they can participate in such perspective, great advises and cautions, all speak- events. The lowest I was told was over RM1,000 ing from real experience. Sometimes, there are nd he h he oe o e 6 000 or bulk purchases organized the members of these ew d y em n r nd o or n y o o n re forums. PropertyWTF.com.my for example, has or- ro rch e . m che e o er on y ganized three bulk purchases for its members this h n h o o money e ec y when here year, at no cost due, thanks to its strong association are some free, no-fee groups out there that does with various developers. the same, albeit informally. m we nown che e nd o e ree e . After all, if you can get a better product for free, why pay?
edefin n d on y 2012 41
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WinAD.indd 1 7/5/2012 2:22:46 PM The Affordable Life Property The Affordable
wning a home is pivotal to most families. It is a necessity for shelter and comfort, and sometimes considered as he defin on or er on cce . he y- n oe h yo r home yo r e - e nd r h y o – y he n e mo expensive investment one will commit to.
owe er m n he dec on o y ho e h ecome more d fic de e m ch ower n ere r e com red o o 30 ye r o. he e or n e c on o ho e r ce n re- cen me h re y c ed r c no on y mon ho e w h n he re e e nd ry now o ho o c o d c on or he - erage Joe at the coffee shop, often lamenting at he ne r m o y o e er own n one. By Emilio Vergara & Lawrence Julius
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WHY IS AFFORDABILITY EVEN AN ISSUE?
e common notion for the regular em- laysia (UTM), she gave a typical example ployee is that “I can never earn enough, of a terrace house in Cheras that went for fast enough to buy a house. And even if RM88,000 in 1986 and surprisingly is I do take a maximum loan, I will be left fetching close to RM250,000 in 2008. at with nothing after my commitment to is an increase of 184%. On the other hand, a the bank ever month.” fresh graduate who started working in 1985 would be paid a salary of about RM1,500 a Could this then be a case of house prices month. Today, 25 years later, a fresh gradu- versus income per capita? According to ate starts at around RM2,500 a month, a Dato’ Lim Hock San, Managing Direc- rise of only 66%, paling in comparison to tor of LBS Bina the increase in house prices. Group Berhad her e ch m ro n (LBS), a ordability Of course this example is only a represen- c r n or on nd is linked to the level tation of the younger generation who has n r r c re o need o e of income and cost just begun their career, but it could very of living, and has well be related to the regular man-on- ddre ed n he on r n. to be interpreted in the-street, an employee earning an honest – Dato’ Lim Hock San the context of each mid-income as well. particular country. “Property prices in It is probably also wise to look at other Singapore are higher than Malaysia, but calculated factors apart from the nancial level of wages are also higher there,” he aspect. “When you talk about a ordability, says. However, he points out that Malay- you must also look at the population and sia actually has one of the lowest house its housing supply,” says Datuk Ng Seing price to income ratio and one of the Liong, Senior Partner of S.L.Ng and As- highest loan a ordability index in the re- sociates and Immediate Past President of gion (See attached charts). the Real Estate and Housing Developers’ Association (REHDA), suggesting that it So how is this still an issue? If comparisons is a matter of supply and demand. by countries do not answer the question, let’s put this into a historic scenario. In a e country’s population now stands at study by Associate Professor Dr Aminah about 28 million with an average growth Md Yusof from Universiti Teknonogi Ma- of 2% a year, while the existing stock of
House Price To Income Ratio 2012 o rce m eo.com o rce
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Loan Affordability Index o rce m eo.com o rce
residential homes is about 4.5 million with 584,546 of in- coming supply based on the Property Stock Report 2011 by the National Property Information Centre.
“Looking at the numbers and averaging ve to six people per household, there is already equilibrium between the popula- tion and housing supply. ere should not be any more pres- sure on the house prices,” adds Datuk Ng. Dato’ Lim Hock San, Managing Director According to him, escalation of house prices is due to the peo- of LBS Bina ro erh d ple who are “chasing” into a certain location all because of hype. And because of this, there’s nothing to stop the developers from increasing prices since there will still be demand.
To be fair to developers, it is not at all about reaping an ob- scene pro t because of the crazy demand. Dato’ Lim likens that developers are still putting a premium price tag be- cause of, rstly, land scarcity. Properties in prime loca- tions will continue to command high prices due to the cost of land. Secondly, he equates rising property prices to the upsurge in construction costs.
“ e increasing cost of the building materials drives devel- opers to increase the pro t margin which in turn directly increase the property’s selling price,” says Dato’ Lim.
But how do we actually know if a house is worth pay- ing for? Aside, of course, from comparing prices of other units within the location, one has to look at the rental yield. “If a house has no yield, it has no value. For example, a million-ringgit property has to have at least be rented out at RM5,000. If it is lower than that, then the property should not be valued at a million ringgit. So naturally, a good yield of 6% should be achieved,” ex- pressed Datuk Ng.
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Another aspect to take into consideration Haji Salleh, Managing Director of Syarikat is the e ects of urbanization. Malaysia has Perumahan Negara Berhad (SPNB). gone through several economic transfor- mations since its independence. By the In spite of this, Dato’ Kamarul says that turn of the millennium however, Malaysia’s this increase in demand did not stem from economic growth has brought an in ux of the buying intentions of these fresh gradu- people from rural towns to the city seeking ates but rather from speculative buyers who opportunities and a better life, particularly saw the opportunity in renting out to this into Kuala Lumpur. new workforce.
he o ernmen ho d “When too many people Sharing a similar sentiment, Michael Geh, e re on e or ow wanted to work in KL, partic- Senior Partner of Raine & Horne Malay- co ho n . ularly young graduates, the de- sia says that the Malaysian property mar- mand for property within the ket has been subjected to the pressures of – Datuk Ng Seing Liong city grew considerably,” states ‘free enterprise and free market’. “Properties Dato’ Dr Kamarul Rashdan that are priced between RM150,000 and RM300,000 have become commodities e n on for investors and speculators to make a fast en or r ner o . . nd oc e nd buck from,” he states adding that because Immediate Past President of these people approaching developers to o he e e nd o n e e o er buy in bulk, genuine home buyers are left oc on on the sidelines only to nally buy it at an in ated price. THE TRUE VALUE OF PROPERTY
When a developer puts a value on a prop- erty, do you just take the price to deter- mine its overall value? A ordability can mean the price tag, but some may be will- ing to spend a bit more in exchange for non-monetary features.
Putting a value to a property isn’t as easy as one might think. e notion that prices in the Klang Valley are expensive is abso- lutely understandable, but is it relatively? e truth is, there is a ne line between af- fordable and expensive. According to Da- tuk Ng, a ordable medium-cost properties may apply to those that are priced below RM500,000, and most would term it as such. However some have also argued that this ceiling does not apply anymore, espe- cially with the current mortgage loan regu- lations where loans are now given out based on nett income rather than gross income. According to the National House Buyers Association, they put the a ordable range between RM150,000 to RM300,000.
Let’s take into consideration the external factors that may or may not determine a val- ue of a property. First there is price, if a 600 sq ft SOHO is priced about RM200,000, would it be deemed a ordable? Although the built area is reduced, it does however
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fall under the RM500,000 roof commonly “All you need to do is take a drive and look referred to as the a ordable line. A ques- around,” says Datuk Ng. He tells that ar- tion can also be issued when talking about eas such as Klang, Semenyih, Selayang and a 2,100 sq ft semi-detached for example, Petaling Jaya still reserves a ordable prop- presenting more spacious quarters, priced erties within their borders, the hard part at RM650,000. In terms of price per sq ft, is looking for it. Although Datuk Ng is both examples actually fall somewhere in referring to the sub-sale market, he makes the region of RM300 psf, so does a ord- a very clear point. Older properties when able mean staying below the mark or add- chosen carefully, renovated and done up ing more value to money? nicely could reap good yields in terms of investment. is also means buyers have a But price isn’t the only variable one must chance to secure their home. take into consideration when trying to determine value. e second should and “ e older areas will boom again,” says always be “location, location, location”, as Datuk Ng, adding that once the prices the popular saying goes. A RM200,000 soar too high above the apartment in Ampang for example, would mark, people will start of course di er from one of the same price looking for properties located in Kota Damansara. When men- in older areas. tioning location, proximity to the city center, availability of public amenities like It is undeniable that af- schools, as well as accessibility via road and fordable properties do rail should also be put into consideration. exist in the secondary
e e o er ho d re r n rom e n rec o ord e ho n n o n e or c nd h h ne wor h nd d who re m y w n o rofi 0 000 nd 100 000 rom he e n . – Michael Geh
en there is lifestyle, a point some may market. Does that ap- consider secondary but actually plays a ply for new o erings? key role in determining one’s acceptance In actual fact, there is of the price being o ered. at being said, still hope. Some de- a single working professional’s preference velopers have caught may not be a married couple’s cup-of- on and are developing tea, and vice versa. Would you consider a more a ordable prop- property worth RM500,000 to be more erties to suit the market’s demands. One Michael Geh, Senior Partner of expensive than one worth RM400,000 if them is LBS Bina Group Bhd, who are Raine & Horne Malaysia it o ers better neighbors, better amenities, o ering their Town Villa town-houses in and better recreation outlets? Taman Tasik Puchong from RM185,000 after Bumiputera discount, for units built- up to 1,075 sq ft – that’s RM175 psf. Few WHERE TO BUY? more examples from them include Pearl Villa in Bandar Saujana Putra starting at Judging on the relative value of proper- RM254,000 and built-up to 1,185 sq ft, ties, including external factors like acces- and another e Lake Residence in Pu- sibility, amenities and even the likability chong sells from RM278,000 for a units factor, there are still options in the market ranging up to 1,421 sq ft. believe it or not. According to Datuk Ng, there are still plenty of a ordable proper- Although it is not an easy task, nding ties available for people, especially in the new properties worthy of your money outskirts of the Klang Valley. He himself and that falls under the a ordable thresh- recommends the secondary market. old is a possible feat nonetheless. Mayland
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Valiant Sdn Bhd is an exemplar developer. for a change. It is correct that income levels eir waterfront development Dorsett have not shot-up in tandem with property Place in Subang, worth RM328,000 on- prices and other goods, but if the e orts wards for SOHO units built-up from 410 are put in, the repairs can start. sq ft falls under the a ordable mark. HOW TO MAKE IT However, if you are looking for value-for- money and may look pass the threshold, AFFORDABLE? developers with a reputation such as the Berjaya Group could also provide. For ex- According to Dato’ Kamarul, SPNB – a ample, Berjaya’s KM1 West condo develop- wholly owned subsidiary of the Minis- ment in Bukit Jalil o ers a good location, ter of Finance Incorporated (MOf Inc) amenities and lifestyle pluses. A unit there – aims to develop 10,000 units of low- starts from RM718,880 for a 1,335 sq ft to cost homes worth RM650 million in 1,508 sq ft unit. Although it breaches the total under the Rumah Mesra Rakyat threshold, in price per sq ft it would still be (RMR) initiative. Each of these single- considered as a ordable – hence value. story bungalows built-up ranges from 700 sq ft to 866 sq ft and will cost about Whatever developers may o er, the ulti- RM65,000 each. e government subsi- mate goal of a buyer is to see prices go down dizes RM20,000 for each, amounting to a monthly repayment fee of only RM150 for eligible buyers. e implementation and execution of these schemes are piv- A BUYER’S CHECKLIST otal, the need for basic shelter should al- to Relative Property Value ways be provided. “It is the obligation of the government to provide the basic needs of the people,” Set your price limit. says Dato’ Kamarul referring to low-cost For every YES, add RM5,000 to the limit. developments.
For every NO, minus RM5,000. Apart from the RMR initiative carried The end value should roughly be the property’s out by SPNB, the 1Malaysia People’s Housing Programme or Projek Peruma- relative value. han Rakyat 1Malaysia (PR1MA) which o ers homes priced from RM150,000 FACTOR YES NO to RM300,000, addresses the woes of the middle-income. at said, are there Public transport enough to cater to the ever increasing demand from the group? Other gov- y o cce con der r fic c or ernment initiatives like My First Home Scheme (MFHS) were also implemented, Commercial center/entertainment factor helping rst-time buyers with a 100% Complete amenities (schools, place of loan. While a noble move, it only serves wor h e c as a loan scheme, and house prices will still continue rising in spite. Individual-preferred location While a lot of focus by the government has Furnished been channeled towards building a ord- Reputable developer/good unit condition able homes and curbing speculation on the buyers’ side, Dato’ Kamarul believes it is Satisfactory facilities now time to concentrate on the develop- Good neighbors ers, saying, “Developers should be com- mitted to work together. If the land is over- Rental potential 6% minimum priced for example, then they should form a pact not to buy it.” He goes on to suggest Acceptable maintenance fee that the government should consider more Adequate car park space stringent tax on land acquisitions.
48 y 2012 edefin n d on
HFN_VOL42_CoverStory.indd 48 7/4/2012 5:49:58 PM The Affordable Life Property
Dato’ Kamarul also suggests developers ly and monitor its volatility so as to not to adopt IBS (Industrialized Building su er the same fate as the US few years System) as a way to cut costs and bring ago. At the moment, ours is still one that prices down. IBS refers to the complete is manageable, and there are still loads of assembly of construction, where com- a ordable properties out there, if we look ponents are manufactured beforehand hard enough. at factories, transported then assembled. “IBS works in a way that when building E orts by the government are indeed lead- in mass, costs will come down signi - ing the battle against more price hikes, cantly,” he says, believing that with com- and it is precisely the government’s job to mitment from the developers, price hikes keep the country’s property can be avoided. scene sustainable. But more wo d c e or e home than that, it should also be a In view of this, Michael also implies that combined e ort and agree- ord e ed on developers must be the main line of de- ment from all entities in- he n m er or m or y o fense against the skyrocketing prices. cluding the developers, buy- o en rch er w h n ers, investors and real estate “Many responsible developers and their agents. It is a common goal that location who can afford CSR statements promise to uphold a cer- we are all trying to achieve, h r c r home. tain responsibility to the community, to not letting the market spiral ‘build sustainable communities’, to ‘re- out of control. And if it is – Dato’ Dr Kamarul Rashdan spect human rights, equality and fairness’ true that many hands make Haji Salleh and so on. is is as good a time as any light work, so be it. to ask developers to live up to their CSR statements,” he says.
e idea behind this is that developers should start providing quality homes to gen- uine homebuyers rather than bene ting in- vestors and speculators. Developers should refrain from bulk selling, and there should
be a fair sales process. e saying “get in line o r m r and wait your turn” should be practiced by hd n eh Managing Director developers towards their buyers. o y r er m h n e r erh d So far, the e orts discussed have been about developers and new properties, but what about properties in the secondary market? Prices here are not getting any cheaper, in fact, it is rather the reverse. Ac- cording to Dato’ Kamarul, sellers of sub- sale properties are just trying their luck and hiking up prices just because they can. is is where the estate agents come in; it is their job to advise buy- ers on the right selling price to set. A BRIGHTER FUTURE?
A ordability of properties is a very real issue globally. De- spite, having one of the low- est property prices in the region, we, Malaysians still have to scrutinize this matter thorough-
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HFN_VOL42_CoverStory.indd 49 7/2/2012 3:55:44 PM Lifestyle Faizul Ridzuan
50 y 2012 edefin n d on
Faizul Ridzuan.indd 50 7/4/2012 2:34:56 PM Faizul Ridzuan Lifestyle FAIZUL Journeying To 23 by 30
RIDZUAN n er ew y Lawrence Julius We’ve read his book, heard his talks and seen him on his motorcycle. His book went on to become a bestseller in MPH, Kinokuniya and Borders, racing head-to-head against a memoir release of a former Prime Minister of ours. Now, we get a chance to delve deeper into the mind of the man behind “WTF? 23 Properties by 30” and gather some insights on how an average man found his inspiration in property – and made it work for him. Faizul Ridzuan himself shares his thoughts and experiences and how sleepless nights finally paid off.
Hi Faizul, it’s a pleasure to have changed your life and your family’s? you as a feature in this edition ne o he e momen or me w of Home nder. First of all, how m n 120 000 wor h o c e n rofi did you get involved in property n 1 mon h w ho n n e cen . investments? And what were you ch e ed h y y n n nw n ed ro er y h c n ceme ery nd doing prior to this? we or en on. he de o h re e re m ne e w y een n d c ed n my oo . em oyee e er nce r d ed m one od y. e he one who here were m ny down de he one r ed my n ere n ro er y w h nnoyed me he mo re de e o er my e ec rer n n er y. m r c ce when come o m n com er c ence r d e nd he oc on . here were me when w r d e n n er y y c hen orced now n nd n now n y o y were re red o e one ern e m o de e my re erence n co r e rom d eren c y. oo y n m o . h co r e c ed er on n nce nd w h y ec re he e r e concerned no h n h n h m d. hro ho he ch n ed m ch e ce h h e e eme er he e on enco r n her me or my e m n n ro er e den o y ro er e hey m de e me. ey h een com n n . ood n e men . ne d y den o o her ch n e. r de my mo or e ed her how m ny ro er e he 0 o he me nd re e o y h o h o d e nd her re y w ny h n o e 200 or c o h n n e c nd d 20 ome h n he m de more re y ood e or money. re e money rom re e e h n her n ne o o y norm r ce or ny em nd fi e o . w 21 hen nd h er y r n e cr y. h ew my m nd. new c hen h needed o y ro er y oon Your book “WTF? 23 Properties co d ord . by 30” obviously tells of your successes in investments, what’s Surely you’ve had your share of your secret? ups and downs in property, which o ecre c y nd hone y don were the ones that stuck with you? con der my e cce ye . And how has property investing ory o n er e y who ry n
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Faizul Ridzuan.indd 51 7/4/2012 2:34:57 PM Lifestyle Faizul Ridzuan
or he ro er y nd ry e more ncre e one c h ow em r ce “One of the best e ec e n n e n od y. r ce h m e nd e o ne wor w h e moments for me one e r nd eo e need o m nded n e or . r mewor n e o more y o den y ood de m or n cr er n de erm n n he de was making od y here re en y o o er r ced ro er y e her c h ow or n . or ro er e n he m r e . 30 h oo c ed w h r ce e RM120,000 r e e Any plans for a follow-up to worth of “WTF? 23 Properties by 30”? o n or h ye . he oo re y Sreenivas Naidu : clean pro t wo mon h o d nd d y need re er wo ye r o ee e n h . o r h n o e o in 18 months He lets off a smile, of satisfaction one d n oo without using a might guess, but certainly one of relief as well, I bet. 1 hone nd down o e r h single cent.” For those who have not picked up 2 re y n r n . oc oy a copy of your book, can you give m e ood oc y r n o h e n wh e er m ed re o rce he h cre e y. them a preview of what to expect w h r y no h n inside? Your book became an overnight re e er ye here re ome re 3 d mn nny success and is listed as a bestseller. e mon rom ho e who h e o h my oo . What was your reaction to this or 4 or he mo n were you already expecting a hit? Bernard Chin : o w dom he h re o e hone w worr ed c h h no yo r ro er y n e men 101 no one wo d e y n my oo . he more o n n r on re d on how ory ed ro ch w n e y ne door ry m n m n ed o er n nd ome h n com e e y new o d m m on n ro er y Splendid reviews Faizul, a o he m r e o w n re nyone or o o w h e money n n y c certainly good read. Finally, are wo d w n o re d my ory. he oo m nd nd e ce on o ch n find n there any people out there that ec me e e er n no n y ro er y em . er e o re n orce h order n e h n 2 mon h w n ne o fi er c n d m e e you’d like to acknowledge and re y e n r r e. rece ed o o ncome hro h d c ne c e r o nd thank in helping you on this path? o e eed c my oo ce oo de erm n on. co r e ec h n o he r o e nd em . h re y m de me on ne ed con r or n r o ee h he 2 ye r oo o wr e w he oo e he hor n m n ro er y or m h e e y h red wor h he e or . m h y o e e no re en o nd ro ch e y he r now ed e nd n orm on. h o n re nd ed c e eo e on ro er y o h e nner nd e oned n e or owed y e me o e rn w ho n e n . e. ro de ome e n h he need o y n h e mo n o o n on ho h roce eh nd h d ro er y em n r nd ro . n he What made you decide to write o ch r mewor nd o ed on ne wor d e eryone e cher “WTF? 23 Properties by 30”? on . . . . . hey re o he den . e een c e y d n ro er y Raja Noor Izzudin : no e h n o my n e or o er on ne n erne or m h oo ory o en on yo n m y h or ed me he w y n he ew ye r nd mo o ho e y n med d n o rney n de e my cr y n c . who enefi ed rom my d ce nd m de c r n 23 ro er e e ore 30 ye r decen money recommended h wr e o d. n m e n e he hor ery n h mee h r y een oo nd h re my echn e . e re er ed h yo don need o h e e re ch n w h yo re h w he c y . fi e fi re ry o m do en o n r on. e w h yo he e ro er e yo h e o do o y n yo r com n ende or nd w e m o h e e e er h one h o cre e fin nc n ee wh o her oo n orw rd o he r n more or e c e y e rch o ncre e he r e c n ee e r y o ho n o rom yo n he re. h n yo ncome nd no e oo de enden on he r n ne o fi e o . oo re o w y o ncre e one e ncome ro ded e .
So what is next for Faizul Ridzuan? Join Homefinder on Facebook Where do you see yourself and the and find out how you can stand a chance to property industry heading? ne . h e ood d y o nd n end o ee . con n e o n e n ro er e when he r h de WIN Faizul’s book come on . n he me n me m do n my r n con r n c nd h r n my now ed e co mn n n on ne “WTF? 23 Properties by 30”. ro er y or m c ed ro er yw .com.my.
52 y 2012 edefin n d on
Faizul Ridzuan.indd 52 7/2/2012 2:38:41 PM lifestyle PEOPLE USUALLY ARE THE HAPPIEST AT HOME. “– WILLIAM SHAKESPEARE ”
INSIDE
c The Last Lecture c Staying Married for Life c Be Your Teen’s Role Model c 10 Fun Things to do with Your Family c I’d Listen To That c DEVIALET D-Premier c Have a Good Night c Carven Ong c The Malaysian Garden
Lifestyle segment.indd 1 7/1/2012 11:12:52 PM Lifestyle The Last Lecture The Last Lecture ...AND THE MOST IMPORTANT ONE. By Emilio Vergara
hen the word ed- Confucius once said “What I hear I forget, what ucation pops up, I see I remember, what I do I understand.” Un- what usually comes derstanding this truth, my lecturer was one to mind are numbers, who knew it was important to deliver his les- textbooks, and exams. sons to these three different learners. Only It is drilled in us this way then, he believed that we will be empowered that we can hardly see to continue learning on our own. any other way of learning. But what about life itself? In a nutshell, it is most important to teach stu- Who do we learn about that den n w y h w e enefic o he - from? dents’ growth and not in ways to show that the teacher is knowledgeable. In my fin ye r o d e h d o e a module called Crisis Management. While remem er my ec rer fin c he hed it may be just another subject I have to go the cover of the acclaimed bestseller by Randy through to gain the papers that will lead me to Pausch, The Last Lecture signifying his own TOP 3 a good paying job and so on, my lecturer surely last lecture. In a way, his own lecture was in- LIFE LESSONS made it more than just managing crises. spired by Pausch’s but instead of sharing life experiences and principles of living, he chose Tough times In retrospect, I have to say the lessons learnt to share ways of facing life challenges. It’s all 1 never last, that day was not about the usual technicalities about staying motivated, working with people tough people do. of solving crises but lessons of life itself. And if of other personalities, overcoming self im- you’re thinking about inspirational quotes and posed limitations and fears, and most impor- When a student motivating speeches alone, you gotta think tantly, having and showing gratitude especially bigger my friend. Try breaking legit arrows with to our parents. This was not about giving a man 2 is ready to learn, just your neck while its sharp tip is prodding fi h e ch n he m n o fi h. teachers will be your throat. everywhere. It was in this last lecture that he went out of Even though I have had experience in corpo- the way, making a few of us conquer our fears “Courage was not rate training and team building methods and in life by breaking real arrows just using our 3 the absence of fear, activities, his methods were just overboard in throats; and it was an empowering moment but the triumph over my eyes. It was about pushing his students indeed. Although, slightly different from the to the limits coming out stronger. My lessons author’s context, he lives by the same guiding it. The brave man is were unlike any other I have learnt before in principle, “to truly live life to our fullest potential not he who does neither school nor tertiary education, being put as an authentic and powerful individual within not feel afraid, but in pressure cooker moments more often than the context of love and joy, and to empower he who conquers not, and simulating real life moments. others to do the same.” And rightly so, an avid sky diver, bungee jumper, rock climber and so that fear.” Years down the road, I seek out my lecturer on, he does push life to the edge. – Nelson Mandela once again to truly understand the lessons that he passed on to us through his eccentric While we all go through our daily lives earning a methods of teaching. living, we are more often blinded on the goal of life itself. Our global education system teaches Exams and notes we did back in school may not us the technical aspects of life – how to cal- be necessarily wrong or useless. But because culate, write and measure – which is useful in learners can be categorized three groups: vi- our daily activities. But when we are hit by a life sual, auditory and kinesthetic, the third kind of tsunami, be it at work or at home, it is the les- learner is usually left out. This learner learns sons on life that helps us stay strong through best with a hands-on approach. Everyone has these troubled moments. a combination of these three learning styles but with a dominant preference, and believe it Learning never stops. It goes on throughout or not, a majority of us are born as kinesthetic our whole life. So learn about life along the way learning dominant. and live life to the fullest.
54 y 2012 edefin n d on
EV_HFN_VOL42_LEARN.indd 54 7/2/2012 11:18:37 AM I’d Read This Lifestyle I’D READ THIS Sometimes we need little something to give us that tiny bit of inspiration, at times just for guidance. So for your reading pleasure, this edition, Focus On The Family presents two books recommendation as brain food. Though a beautiful thing, staying married can be a challenge for many, “The Five Love Languages” can help with that. Another book recommendation tells us how “Every Child Can Succeed”.
The Five Love Languages GARY CHAPMAN RM39.90 • 204 pages
hat happens to love af- dicate your love to her more than if you ter marriage? How does had spent half your salary on a piece of love stay alive in mar- jewelry. riages? These were some of the questions asked of Dr Chapman suggests that there are ba- WDr Gary Chapman by a thrice-divorced c y fi e emo on o e n e fi e m n d r n ne h o er he n ed ways that people speak and understand States. emo on o e word o firm on quality time, receiving gifts, acts of service on how o e c n he e ch o her o fi Pick up any popular magazine. Chances and physical touch. up their “love tanks”. re h yo w e e o find n r c e on ways to romance your spouse. Browse n h oo he c e r y r e he fi e Dr Chapman says he wrote the book through material in a bookstore and you love languages by taking us through the “not to those who are studying mar- w find e on e e n he lives of several married couples. Some riage but to those who are married, to market on how to keep a marriage strong o h h m n h co n e n o fice wh e those who have experienced the ‘in love’ and healthy. Workshops and seminars on others met him as he traveled around the euphoria, who entered marriage with improving marital relationships are eagerly n ed e . ny o w e e o lofty dreams of making each other su- attended. identify with these stories. premely happy but in the reality of day- to-day life are in danger of losing that Dr Chapman, a marriage counselor with Another interesting idea proposed was dream entirely...” over 20 years of experience, says the de- that each of us has a love tank just like sire for romantic love in marriage is deeply he c r h e ro n . r h m n fir He hopes that those couples will not only rooted in our psychological makeup. But heard the metaphor from Dr Ross Camp- rediscover their dream but will see the despite all the books, magazines and prac- bell, a psychiatrist who specializes in the path to making their dreams come true. tical help available, why do so few couples treatment of children and adolescents. Dr eem find o d fic o ee o e e Campbell said that there was an “emo- Although the book is aimed at helping after the wedding? He offers an answer tional tank” inside each child waiting to be co e re nd e he me o o e n he r to some of these questions in his book, fi ed w h o e. marriage, Dr Chapman has included a “The Five Love Languages: How to Express chapter on applying the love languages Heartfelt Commitment to Your Mate”. When a child felt loved, he would develop to children. normally but when the tank was empty, He says people speak different love lan- the child would misbehave. Dr Chapman By recognizing our children’s primary love guages. Your emotional love language and suggests adults also have love tanks and language, he says, we can keep their love the language of your spouse may be as we need o en re h we con n y fi tanks full and enhance the emotional cli- different as Chinese is from English. Each up our spouse’s love tanks. mate of the family. He dreams of a day of us perceive and “speak” love in differ- when ch dren c n row n home fi ed ent ways. n order o fi he o e n we h e o with love and security, where children’s recognize and learn to speak our spouse’s developing energies can be channeled to If you express love in a way your spouse primary love language. First, we need to learning and serving rather than seeking doesn’t understand, he or she won’t real- identify our own primary love language. A the love they did not receive at home.” ize that you’ve expressed love at all. He chapter in the book has been devoted to may not see that the gourmet meal you’ve help us discover our own love language This is an indispensable book for those slaved over the whole afternoon as an act and how to communicate it to our spouse. already married and will certainly be ben- of love. Also, washing the dishes may in- Dr Chapman makes practical suggestions efic or ho e n end n o e m rr ed. Another review on page 62
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Bookreviews.indd 55 7/2/2012 2:29:20 PM Lifestyle Staying Married for Life
kissed my husband John man and a woman who have Staying goodbye, waved as I talents and gifts of our own. backed down the drive- Changes and challenges were way and drove o for inevitable and we wanted to aI weekend public speaking accept rather than resist them. engagement. His last words We committed to working on Married rolled across my mind. our relationship so we would not grow complacent. “Be safe and have fun. I realize for when you come home you’ll I can say today, as my mother Life be a new person. I’m looking often said about her marriage forward to the changes I’ll see.” to my father, “We’re not out by Karen O’Connor of the woods yet, but we’re on We had talked the night before our way, and most important, I can say today, as my mother about not taking each other we’re still together.” She and for granted – in other words, my dad had walked side by often said about her marriage assuming we knew all there side and climbed over a few to my father, “We’re not out was to know about one anoth- boulders, as well, for more er – and about the importance than 60 years. of the woods yet, but we’re on of supporting each other as our way, and most important, individuals with ideas, dreams e following suggestions for and goals of our own. staying married for life (and happily so) are based on ob- we’re still together.” Yes, we are a married couple servations, conversations and but we are also individuals – a trial and error in my mar-
56 y 2012 edefin n d on
HFN_VOL42_FOTF_StayMarried_.indd 56 7/2/2012 11:20:16 AM Staying Married for Life Lifestyle
riage. ey work – thanks to my par- ing, he or she nods and makes po- is custom inspired me. I started ents’ example, the advice of people I lite sounds, but is clearly elsewhere practicing it with my husband. In- admire and the counsel of an older in spirit? He scans the crowd while stead of assuming I know what’s married couple, Robert and Grace, he’s standing with you. Or she peeks going on with him when I suspect who befriended my husband and me around your shoulder as if to say, “I something is upsetting him, I’d ask many years ago. wonder who else is here.” It’s chill- if he’d like to talk and if so, I try to ing to be on the receiving end of such listen and empathize rather than rush Perhaps they will work for you too; treatment. It’s bad enough when it oc- in with a pat answer. practice it and then experience the curs at a social or business gathering, rewards and results in your marriage. but it can be devastating in a marriage. BE APPRECIATIVE BE AVAILABLE To be attentive, one must pay atten- “ ank you.” Being “there” for your spouse is what tion! Look your spouse in the eye. being married is really about. It takes Listen for your mate’s heart, not just Two words spouses don’t time to get to know another person. for his or her words. is is an area hear often enough – from If you’re not available, it can’t hap- of challenge for almost everyone. We one another: pen. Our friends Tom and Jenny go lead such busy lives that many of us out for dinner every Friday night have made a habit of doing more “ ank you for being and they have done so for more than than one thing at the same time. We my love.” 30 years. When their children were make phone calls while driving, cook young, they had their parents over to with one hand and scribble a list with “ ank you for working watch the kids. Nothing but a serious the other, cut a child’s hair as we help so hard for our family.” illness keeps them from this weekly our mate with the monthly nances. date where they focus on one another “ ank you for supporting me.” in a relaxed setting. Later we wonder where the years went and why we don’t feel as connected to “ ank you for being you.” Peter awakens his wife Christine each our husband or wife as we hoped we morning with a cup of her favorite would. We long for another hug. We Gratitude is not an option. Give tea. e two then sit in bed together wish we could laugh and play more. thanks in all circumstances. and talk over their plans for the day. We notice a growing distance be- tween us. If this is true for you, take e more we express our apprecia- Carol and Alan work together in real heart. It’s not too late. Regardless of tion toward our mates, the freer we estate—a business with unpredict- how long you’ve been married, you become of negative thoughts and able hours and lots of driving. One can learn from those mistakes. Each emotions toward one another. Re- works in the eld, the other in the of- of us can choose today to start paying sentment and judgment cannot exist ce. “Believe it or not we rarely see attention to the person we promised in the same space with appreciation. each other during the day so we’ve to love and cherish for a lifetime. made a point of having lunch togeth- “Gratitude is the rosemary of the er,” said Carol. “Nothing gets in the BE AWARE heart,” wrote 19th century writer way of that one hour when we can A friend of mine had a successful Minna Antrim. talk, plan, laugh and debrief.” restaurant business for 20 years. He credited it to his weekly round-table How little it would take to sprinkle And Mary and David bought a kara- meetings with his employees. “He rosemary into the lives of our spous- oke machine when they spend their knew his people would not be ef- es. A simple ‘thank you’ every single time together each night before go- fective if they were carrying around day would do it! ing to bed. “ e couple that sings emotional baggage,” said his wife, together stays together,” Mary joked. Anne. Each Monday morning Frank As we become available, attentive, invited them to share anything that aware, and appreciative toward our For where your treasure is, there your might interfere with them doing marriage partners, we are building a heart will be also. their job. “At the end of the meeting relationship that will last a lifetime – you could feel the change in the air,” and happily so. BE ATTENTIVE she said. “Employees felt closer to Have you ever walked up to someone one another because they knew they is article was extracted by Focus on at an event, and as you begin talk- weren’t alone. Other people cared.” the Family Malaysia with permission.
To nd out more about Focus on the Family Malaysia, please visit or contact us. +603-7954 7920 • [email protected] • www.family.org.my • Facebook [focusonthefamilymalaysia] • Twitter [familiesMY] Focus on the Family 90-second commentaries is aired over TRAXX FM at 7.30 a.m. Monday to Friday
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HFN_VOL42_FOTF_StayMarried_.indd 57 7/2/2012 11:20:16 AM Lifestyle Be Your Teen’s Role Model Teen’sBe Your Role Model How parents can be good role models By Michael Ross
WHAT IS A ROLE MODEL? When we say someone serves as a role model, we mean the individual is someone others admire or try to emulate. For teenagers this often means the person is someone they want to be like – whether it’s because of the person’s lifestyle, athletic prowess or the attitudes the person shows.
Some of those role models are celebrities out of your teen’s reach (athletes and movie stars), while others are in his or her own circle of in uence (teachers and other parents). What do those people have that make them attractive to your teen?
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HFN_VOL42_FOTF_RoleModel.indd 58 7/2/2012 11:21:55 AM Be Your Teen’s Role Model Lifestyle
WHAT TEENS CRAVE
Why do teens look up to the other adults in their lives? Whether or not we like it, parents are sometimes considered the enemy. Teenagers might see their moms and dads as judgmental and unconcerned about their lives. Two qualities, therefore, are crucial to being a role model.
1. A role model is understanding, not condescending.
When 13-year-old Jenny seemed especially upset about a boy not liking her at school, her father said, “ at’s nothing to worry about. You’re too young to even think about boys.” When the dad spoke those words, he was telling Jenny that her concerns were not important. Yet it was serious in her 13-year-old world. Role models try to connect with a teen to understand what he or she is going through. ey do so without belittling the teen’s problems or downplaying the triumphs.
2. A role model is a friend but also a leader. We often think that to be a role model to our teenager we must know the name of every new movie or be able to use teenage slang. at’s not necessarily true.
While most role models understand the teen’s life and are friendly, they also take on a leadership role with them. Role models provide answers, insight or suggestions about the teen’s struggles – oftentimes from their own experiences.
HOW PARENTS CAN BE GOOD ROLE MODELS
• Be available. Let your Say phrases such as “I’m giving a long string of teenager know your door always here for you” or “I’d advice. Listen to your teen is always open. While your love to hear about your rst, then ask follow-up son or daughter may not day.” Don’t apply pressure, questions. Don’t jump in beat down your door but let your teen know you with advice (even when every time he or she has are there for him or her. you clearly see what a question, your teen should be done). Instead, is more likely to do so • Listen to your teen. Being proceed slowly asking your when you have left that available to your teenager teen what he or she thinks door open. does not mean listening should be done. with one ear and then
Being a role model to your teenager may seem like an impossible undertaking. But realize that your young person needs someone just like you — someone who loves him or her and who can point in the right direction.
is article was extracted by Focus on the Family Malaysia with permission. To nd out more about Focus on the Family Malaysia, please visit or contact us. +603-7954 7920 • [email protected] • www.family.org.my • Facebook [focusonthefamilymalaysia] • Twitter [familiesMY] Focus on the Family 90-second commentaries is aired over TRAXX FM at 7.30 a.m. Monday to Friday
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HFN_VOL42_FOTF_RoleModel.indd 59 7/2/2012 11:21:56 AM Lifestyle 10 Fun Things To Do With Your Family FUN THINGS TO DO WITH YOUR 10Have a blast with your family by trying these fun ideas! By Lisa Toner FAMILY
Go on a family scavenger hunt with a list of h n o do or find. erh w ro nd yo r ne h orhood oo n or rre ome h n r e or he n m er 7. r yo c n c 1 r h y h o omeone or o ch o n.
m n de y yo r ee n ro nd c m fire m de o h h nd red nd ye ow e er. oo s’mores in the microwave and 2 n c m fire on .
oo hro h o d m y ho o nd listen to stories of when Dad and Mom were row n . 3
d m er ece out of marshmallows 4 nd oo h c .
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10 FUN THINGS TO DO WITH YOUR FAMILY.indd 60 7/2/2012 11:23:47 AM 10 Fun Things To Do With Your Family Lifestyle
r e o he ne re r or nd w ch he ne e o nd nd. erw rd m e er r ne 6 nd h e y n con e .
h n e ho o o e ch cree y cr w y yo 5 find nd m e oo . re re n m y ed ce cre m nd e. e re o e e ch m y 7 mem er or e o n .
Design an obstacle r en room. n h h course using c h on n o en w . everyday items e h dow n m n ch wn ch r yo r rm nd h nd . r n er or 8 9 oo . emem er o o w ch me e ch family member to see who he e
10Eat dinner by candlelight nd en o yo r or e m c.
is article was extracted by Focus on the Family Malaysia with permission. To nd out more about Focus on the Family Malaysia, please visit or contact us. +603-7954 7920 • [email protected] • www.family.org.my • Facebook [focusonthefamilymalaysia] • Twitter [familiesMY] Focus on the Family 90-second commentaries is aired over TRAXX FM at 7.30 a.m. Monday to Friday
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10 FUN THINGS TO DO WITH YOUR FAMILY.indd 61 7/2/2012 11:23:55 AM Lifestyle I’d Read This
Every Child Can Succeed CYNTHIA ULRICH TOBIAS RM32.90 • 164 pages
ll parents want their children nder nd n where he ch d fi n o An enlightening chapter entitled “They to succeed – according to their the above Learning Styles (or a combina- n e en on efic - own defin on o cce – tion of the styles) will help the parent to order)” gives hope and encouragement to which would usually mean aca- devise strategies to better motivate or parents of children who appear to suffer demic success and being “suc- discipline the child. It may take a while to from lack of attention and concentration. Acessful” in life which would mean having a fully grasp each of these Learning Styles Such children are restless and disruptive re ec e o nd do n we fin nc y. but the author has provided lots of ex- and appear unable to learn anything as amples to illustrate what she means. She they cannot or will not sit still or pay at- wh he ch d doe n fi n o he also provides strategies on how to moti- tention. The author reiterates that every parents’ idea of “success” – he is not inter- vate or discipline within the frame work child has gifts or abilities and we just have ested in school, he is restless, disruptive in of a child’s learning style. Lest the read- o find how o r n o he e n e ch class, doesn’t do his homework, fails his ers are still confused, the Appendix at the ch d e en he he doe no fi n o he tests. Does it mean he is doomed to be back of the book will help them launch traditional mould. She says “There are a failure? a “Plan of Action” and work out an indi- many methods of transportation for get- d rofi e o he r ch d. ting our children to the same destination.” o ccord n o hor yn h r ch o- Parents have the responsibility to know bias, if you (parents, teachers) make the The chapter on “What’s the big deal about their own child so that they don’t allow most of the child’s learning style. In this School?” reminds parents that traditional their child to be labeled or dismissed sim- very informative book, the author postu- c room n e e y em o me - y ec e he he doe n fi n o he r - lates that each child is an individual with surement and evaluation and established ditional education system. his own unique style of learning. Once method of instruction (especially the “talk parents or teachers are aware of a child’s and chalk” method found in Malaysian “Every Child Can Succeed” is indeed an learning style (ie. how he receives, pro- c room don fi e ery den . invaluable resource for parents and teach- cesses and responds to information) and ch d h n d fic e n choo he ers. There are practical, proven tech- incorporate it into their teaching / disci- hor ch en e ren o find o why niques written in an easy-to-read style and pline methods, the child will be happy to – does the child really lack basic skills or format which will help parents help their learn and he can succeed in a given task. ec e he doe n fi n o nd rd children accomplish goals in their own The blurb on the jacket of the book says mould? In this chapter, the author lists unique ways. As a resource material, this “By working within their child’s unique out what is hardest for each type of learn- book can help you to : - learning styles, parents can remove a lot er in school and gives suggestions on of frustration at home and at school and how to help. For example, for the visual den y yo r ch d e rn n help their kids achieve greater self-esteem learner, listening to a lecture without vi- strengths and success.” sual aids is hard. To help him, the parent can help the child develop coping strate- o e yo r ch d eyond Early in the book, the author explains what gies such as drawing a picture or diagram excuses these learning styles are and the dominant of what the teach is talking about. A use- e e ec e d c ne characteristics under each of these styles. ful chapter for all parents and teachers techniques She has summarised the various learning with children who seemingly “don’t pay styles as : - attention in class.” o e yo r ch d o cceed omm n c e more e ec e y with your child’s teachers Auditory : Auditory learners need to talk through their thought oo yo r ch d e e eem process. Visual : Visual learners need to see information. r n o he e n yo r ch d Kinethestic : Kinethestic learners need to move around. n y c n y c e rner oc e y on ec fic c . This book is recommended for parents, Global : Global learners are better at grasping the overall picture teachers, counselors and youth workers. rather than the details. It will help them understand how each Concrete Sequential : The dominant characteristic of concrete sequential person is an individual, right down to his/ learners are that they are hardworking, conventional, her Learning Style. Once the various types practical, stable. of Learning Styles are grasped, the reader Abstract Sequential : Such learners are analytic, objective, logical, systematic. will enjoy applying them to himself and to Abstract Random : Abstract Random learners are sensitive, imaginative, his children and thereby be in a position e e on neo . to help and guide his children to become Concrete Random : Such learners are curious, adventurous, creative, intuitive. successful adults.
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Bookreviews.indd 62 7/2/2012 2:29:20 PM I’d Listen To That Lifestyle I’D LISTEN TO THAT
Back from a long day at work? Sometimes we just need a break at home, but it can be a bit difficult when our mind is still clouded and we’re preparing for another busy day tomorrow. When a relaxing mood is needed on the immediate, or you just need to free up your mind and spend some quality time with your family, there’s always a tune for everything. Perhaps a pretty voice and some smooth music is exactly what you need to cool down the engines.
Absolute Voices Absolute Acoustic Music & Wine by Various Artists by M.Y.M.P by Various Artists Rock Corner Malaysia Rock Corner Malaysia Rock Corner Malaysia Listen while kicking back on your re- Listen in the car Listen when in a romantic setting and clining chair or sofa fine w ne w h n re ch M.Y.M.P (Make Your Momma Proud) The album Absolute Voices, an ex- is an acoustic act that hails from the Six compact discs worth of compila- clusive by Rock Corner Malaysia and Philippines. The two-disc album fea- tions, this exclusive title from Rock Cor- marketed by S2S, is a two-disc com- tures the vocals of Juris Fernandez ner he er ec m ch or fine w ne pilation of 20 various songbirds that and guitar strums of Chin Alcantara as and-dine. With 78 tracks to choose, include Renee Olstead, Joanna Wang, they take us on a soulful ride across how would you know which to select? Ann Sally, Nina Vidal, Zita Zalai and decades, with 24 numbers that in- Well, each disc is thoughtfully labeled Zsa Zsa Padilla singing their own Jazzy clude covers of chart-topping hits and according to wine selection and music renditions of classic tunes such as “A classics of old and recent, like Cyndi genre. Let’s say red wine is the order of Love That Will Last”, “True”, “I Wish Lauper and Phil Collin’s “True Colors” the night then pop in Disc One, “Match You Love”, “Close To You” and “The as well as original tracks from the duo. Heavy Red with Straight-ahead Jazz”, Way You Look Tonight”. Expect soul- 24 light and easy songs presented it’s straightforward and easy to under- ful voicing backed up by cool instru- through the M.Y.M.P style and inter- stand. The other discs are labeled in the mentals and tones. Like what the title re on. fir r c ec y same manner, from “Match Crispy White suggests, it’s all about the apprecia- for you” opens and Juris’s silky voice with Adult Alternative” to “Match Cham- tion the various and unique voices on come on, you know you’ll be in for a pagne & Sparkling with Chillout”. The he d c rom he de h fi ed o ce pleasant journey. little booklet inside is also quite handy, of Zsa Zsa Padilla to the silky-smooth explaining each category and identi- voice of Joanna Wang, Absolute Voic- fying the wines associated to them. es is one to enjoy while on a Sunday Wine and music is a splendid marriage drive, or home camp-in. indeed. With a wide selection of tracks and artists like Norah Jones, Kings of Convenience, Louis Armstrong, Boney James, Cliff Richard, Sixpence None The Richer and even Radiohead, it makes for the perfect soundtrack to any evening.
If you like our recommendations, or have some of your own, do write to editor homefinder com my or drop us a line on our Facebook or Twitter, and share your thoughts and favorite down-time tune for others to discover.
edefin n d on y 2012 63 Lifestyle DEVIALET D-Premier
DEVIALET D-Premier The innovative approach in h fide y d o m fic on w h n e he c r.
THIS IS bridge these two divide, and change 32mm thickness, highly-polished AN AMPLIFIER the way we perceive the traditional with a minimalistic fascia that has UNLIKE ANY OTHER. “performance versus aesthetics” issue. only a solitary power button and a discrete circular liquid-crystal display Generally, most of us music-lovers One’s rst glace upon this slim, sleek for volume and input indication. All who enjoy our domestic hi- systems and highly-polished ampli er will forms of control for the unit is via the will fall into one of two categories; bring on a sense of awe and an in- three buttons and a smooth-weight- namely, those who place optimal mu- stant realization that the crucial “wife- ed volume ywheel on the separate sic performance above all else or those factor” prerequisite for the purchase RF remote device (as opposed to the who would gladly compromise per- decision of conventional, bulky and typical IR remote of most electronic formance with a good dose of lifestyle industrial-looking domestic hi- com- products) of which the looks, echo design in their music hardware. ponents will no longer apply. Here, we a similar design aesthetics and built- have a product with gorgeous, elegant quality. Closely resembling a large lap- e focus of this article, the DEVI- looks that appeal to both the sexes, top, its 400mm (W) x 400mm (D) x ALET D-Premier, is a French-made and performance that will satisfy even 44.5mm (H) dimensions allow it to “state-of-the-art” audiophile inte- the hard-core audiophile. Its 6.9kg be laid at on a table-top or mounted grated ampli er that will most likely chassis is a one-piece alloy casting of vertically on the wall, whilst the lcd
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DEVIALET D.indd 64 7/2/2012 1:25:16 AM DEVIALET D-Premier Lifestyle
automatically changes its orientation according to the said placement. Dis- engaging the chrome top t-cover at the rear of the chassis will expose an unusually comprehensive mix of au- dio connections ranging from digital (coaxial, optical S/PDIF and bal- anced AES/EBU), analogue line-level, HDMI v1.3 (2-channels from HD formats, Blu-ray/DVD, SACD & HD-TV) and MM/MC phono (vinyl source). is exibility is extended to the proprietary-designed Digital/Ana- logue converter incorporated into the unit that enables direct connectivity of any digital sources, from a cd trans- port/player to a computer or equiva- lent (optimized for high-resolution music downloads). In an essence, this ampli er is not only compatible with legacy music sources like the turnta- ble, but is also applicable to all current and future digital music sources like the digital music streamer. ere is even an optional PC/Mac application to provide complete customization of the ampli er’s digital and analogue input/output connectivity, as well as and output impedance, with the best tronics to announce the rst notes of its output power setting from 160w signal-to-noise ratio. All these trans- this overture. en it comes. e strik- to 240w (with the default setting at late into a musical presentation that ing crash of cymbals and deep resonant 165w/8ohms). is always true to the music recordings wave of tympani strike your body. Eyes and reveals the music in all its com- now wide open, heart roused from its Indeed, the D-Premier is quite possibly plexities and nuances. Listening to the lazy rhythm. You know you are wit- the most handsome and versatile hi- D-Premier will surely conjure audio- nessing a visceral, live performance. ampli er that I have ever encountered. phile aspiration of good transparency, No hi- comes close, you think, no hi- dynamics, transient, imaging and can realize this spontaneous dynamic AND IT HAS AN soundstage. range, this vivid color and expression AWESOME VOICE of real instruments throbbing before THAT IS SIMPLY An excerpt from the review by Paul your eyes and ears.” INSPIRATIONAL. Miller in www.hi news.co.uk below, aptly describes the performance of this And yet, the D-Premier comes aston- Now that we are already enamored by ampli er; ishingly close when fed from 24-bit the physical appearance of this ampli- Studio Master-quality digital music er, there is but one crucial question. “Imagine you are sitting in a concert les. Certainly, I would have the exact How does it sound like? hall. e orchestra nishes its warm- same sentiments and perhaps, even be up and sound of individual strings and bold enough to call it “the most hon- e answer lies quite literally in its winds drift away to the vaults of the est hi- ampli er” that I have the plea- “core”, where the patented ADH venue. e audience’s coughs, splut- sure of hearing. Core (Analogue/Digital Hybrid) am- ters and rustling of program notes di- pli cation technology combines two minish to a respectful hush. e lights Hear! Hear! Music-lovers rejoice! pure class-A analogue ampli ers (for dim and you close your eyes. Silence. accuracy and musicality) with eight Reviewed by Bill Cheong other digital ampli ers (for high- For a long moment the audience holds For queries and audition, power e ciency) to produce the low- its collective breath for there is no lead- please contact Adrian Wong of est signal distortion, intermodulation in groove, no tape noise or hiss of elec- AUDIO IMAGE at +6016-600 1218
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DEVIALET D.indd 65 7/2/2012 1:26:00 AM Lifestyle Have a Good Night
leep is a vital part of life. It is when our body recharges itself, getting it ready for he d y he d. ore n fic n y we spend at least a third of our lives sleep- ing. The problem with most of us is that Have a Swe usually take for granted the need for good sleep. Let’s be honest, the bed is probably the furniture you pay least attention to when you are furnish- ing your new home. As long as it promises comfort on its packaging and for the right price, it is good enough. But how sure are you that that exact mat- tress suits your body? Not only your weight and height, but your sleep position, posture, and the Good surface area all play very important roles in ensur- ing you get a good night’s sleep.
In Malaysia, the awareness of getting a good mat- tress that suits you is just not at an adequate level yet. Case for example, you walk into a regular fur- niture shop and look for bed that suit your price rather than your body. The salesperson who is Night probably just a part-time worker probably knows nothing about the technology put into the prod- uct he is trying to sell nor does he know if it will give you a comfortable slumber. And even if you do Comfortably sleeping your e or com or yo y r e y on he bed rather than lie on it for a few minutes because way to a healthier you that’s the decent thing to do in public. By Emilio Vergara What you may not know is that when you sit, you are squeezing 70 percent of your body weight just on the surface area of your bottom. That is not equal to when you are in your usual sleeping po- sition and spread your body weight out evenly. A bed will probably feel too soft for you when you sit down. Another misconstrued fact is that the harder the mattress means it is better for your back or pos- re. he r h firmne doe no e o h rd- ness for beds.
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So now you know how to test a mattress d n o n ern on ec fic on o - before buying, and that harder ones are “For us, knowledge in ster & Bedd scour the world for each and not necessarily better for your back. But our products and how every component and chooses only the that’s just the tip of the iceberg. best for perfect composition. So detailed well it gels with people is bed technology today that even an extra Offering professional advice and tailor- twist on each of the pocket springs make ing mattresses to suit your body, Bolster is key. We don’t just sell a difference to the mattresses. And while & Bedd – a “Designer Mattress Brand” – occ on n recommended or can help us understand our sleeping bet- beds, we sell you sleep,” con en on m re e o re n firm- ter. While a relatively young brand in the ness and shape, mattresses from Bolster market, Bolster & Bedd have spent plenty – James Lim co-founder & Bedd for example, has the technology of hours, involving experienced designers of Bolster & Bedd. inside that makes the foam extra durable from Australia and Malaysia, researching – e m n n he need o . and prototyping their range before they even began. To James Lim, co-founder of Bolster & Bedd, sleep is not all just about tangible comfort Sleeping is a science of its own and it is Then there is quality. Sleepers should think of the bed. He reckons the remaining 30% important to understand your own sleep, about the conditioning of the mattresses of a good sleep come from the psycho- which a lot of us just do not. So for Bolster when buying, one you can personally see logical aspect. This includes ambience, the & Bedd, it is paramount that they are able and feel. Remember it’s not just about one temperature, your body’s biological clock, to see if your sleep posture is right the mo- good thing that makes a bed, but a com- the time of day and a whole lot of other ment you lie on a mattress. Whether you bination of all, including the springs, the elements. Have you ever tried sleeping in a sleep on your back, side or belly, you’ll need foam, the fabric and other more meticu- bright lit room on a Sunday afternoon with that perfect mattress to suit your body. lous details. he o nd o n r fic o de the window? Compare that to a dim 5-star Left: hotel room and you’ll understand. Just an extra turn in each of these pocket springs will make the difference between a good sleep and a bad one. Don’t take sleep for granted anymore. While it may be the time where your sub- conscious mind takes over, it is still a very important part of our lives. Get the right bed, have a good forty winks, and you will find yo r e n m ch he h er e.
Left: Seamless edges give you a larger surface area allowing for comfortable movements during sleep.
If you’d like to learn more on sleeping better, visit www.bolsterbedd.com or call +603-6150 4488 at Sunway Giza or +603-7873 9488 at SS2, PJ.
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EV_HFN_VOL42_BEDD.indd 67 7/2/2012 1:45:09 AM Lifestyle Passion for Fashion
r en n
Recognized as one of When and how did you “Asia’s Top Fashion begin this passion for fashion? Designer of the Year” nce w o o r or fi e in 2009 by Fashion ye r o d h e o ed dr w n . hene er here w er nd Asia, his experience enc y n ro nd wo d r in the industry spans . y m m no cedno ced h h nd nd oon oon across two decades. dr w n ec me my ho y. Carven Ong shares he me me d r n my choo n d y w ched on how he started off m ny h on how e y as a lecturer to e n y concer and so on, and I was fascinated what he is today. how he e eo e on co d c rry hem e e o we w h ho e n ce o fi . w n n r on or me o e de ner one d y nd de n he o fi or hem.
m o he he yo n e yo n e o o o r o r n nd c n he 0 when w row n my hree er were w y ee n w h he h on rend ome me cre n he r own dre e . onded ery we we w hw h mymy er how n hem my own PASSION de n e che nd e n he r eed c . o rom here new new wo d m e c reerc reer o o o o FOR h on. What is the signature style of Carven Ong? em n ne c nd om or e. no on y mode who re e o c rry hem e e FASHION we . w n mo d e e en n er ew y Emilio Vergara hey h e d eren d eren y e y e o o ody h e o oo ood. nd de ner m now wh hem e he r ho e e he c n or co or. em n ne em n ne
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EV_HFN_VOL42_Carven.indd 68 7/2/2012 10:51:22 AM Passion for Fashion Lifestyle
CARVEN’S TIPS ON CHOOSING THE RIGHT GOWN Know what you want Do your research. Look through magazines, the internet and more and decide what style you like. See whether it would go well with your 1 theme and how you would want to present yourself. Choose the right designer Get professional advice. See what suits your body and what does not. 2 Work with the designer, but make sure you like your final decision. Tr y Tr y Tr y Try on the gown to see if it looks good on you. You must feel 3 comfortable in your gown as well.
ec e mo women re er h e r y dre e c ome h n wh ch or r y he r em n ne re nd o fice we r. he e de ome h n h ow n nd are ready-to-wear ones found in c y. he me me m e de r men ore . more com or e or hem. oo e or e o m rod c on. or co d ome me e oo com c ed r d own nd e en n or he norm wom n nd hey w own more d rec w h oo o o ce. he de ner. o h where more de ed choo n How do you usually work with wh wor nd wh your clients? doe n or he c en . or mo eo e who come n hey y h e done ome re e rch Surely you’ve worked with on cer n y e hey e nd h e a bunch of notable people, decided on who they want as their can you name some? de ner. o when hey come n o o he eo e h e y h e con on w h wor ed w h re y hem no o m ch on he echn c nd or d con e n ec ye o e o now he r nd w nner . here re o er on y wh heme wo d he r ome oc nd re on r occ on e nd how he wo d e and a few local royalties and o re en her e on h d y whe her d n r e . ho h c nno it is classic, sexy, Hollywood style, or men on e eryone ome ome h n e e. e m e re e rh rr r e nd hee oo hen we o n o he echn c r Wincci, Deborah Henry, and where wo d ro o e ho e e m er h . h n mo 0 h wo d her ody h e he o he eo e e dre ed re c n he co or nd o he m er . re y r w h e . hen hey h e o ry he own n hey find c n h hem. roughout your amazing h roce o n o or n y or me o ed c e he c en on he 21-year career, what is m ny d eren c nd wh wo d the one most memorable hem e ec e mo o hem moment for you? h e ne er worn own nd wo d w re y nny one c y no now. h ened o e en ye r o. w c y n w rd rece ed Other than your famed wedding c n my home own n . hey w rded he o 10 mo rom n gowns, do you design other kind er on e rom n nd w of out ts? one o hem. remem er on h me her h n he co re r n e o d y w o ed o e n n
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EV_HFN_VOL42_Carven.indd 69 7/2/2012 10:51:24 AM Lifestyle Passion for Fashion
en n own w h er on o ch.
w o he how n wh ch o d w ho h n n whe her wo d ended m. h d o r h he w y c y wor h n y wor ed o n n me or he w rd m. nd rew e we . ery h n w o m n e re y h d me o h e ch n e o c o he . Finally, this being Home nder, I have to ask , how would you Why did you decide to start the de ne a home? Carven Academy of Fashion in the o me he word home c o e y re ed rst place? o h on. n h on de n o w ome h n h h ened choo n he r h de n he r h y . y fir o n w c y co or nd o co r e he m er . h h on ec rer. he me me w home yo o choo e how o m e o de ner nd c er or no her yo r own w h he de n o he ho e com ny. y r end oon o nd o he co or cheme nd wh m er w o ec rer nd hey w n ed me yo w n o e e e m r e or o e ch hem de n n er on y. wood. nd e h on rend home o h e rend o o ow. o rew rom one den o hree ewer condom n m or ho e w y o en den . hen more nd more h e new nd d eren de n. eo e ed me why no o en my own c demy where hey c n e rn h on ro nd rom dre e o her h n rom me we ch o o r home e en o r h nd hone cr n ew n nd c n . h co er h on emen . e h ened when w on y 21 ye r need o ee he e y o .
To learn more on how you can nd the perfect gown for yourself, call Carven Ong Couture and Wedding Specialist at 603-2162 8232 or visit www.carvenong.com.my
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EV_HFN_VOL42_Carven.indd 70 7/2/2012 10:51:26 AM REDHAAD.pdf 1 5/7/2012 10:51:13 AM
C
M
Y
CM
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CMY
K Lifestyle The Malaysian Garden
The Malaysian
GARDENOur very own By Emilio Vergara Grab a book and relax in your own Malaysian Garden.
I guess it is in every one of us to take pride in henever relatives or friends from foreign where we come from and be able to tell sto- lands come to visit, it is always a joy for me ries of just about any product resulting from the to include a courtesy tour of our country for cultural mishmash in our country, something W that symbolizes our identity as Malaysians – the them, whether in the city or the countryside, pausing durian, the twin towers, nasi lemak, yee sang only to let them try some of Malaysia’s most deli- (though Singaporeans claim it to be theirs). cious and unique delicacies and to share with them So when Desmond Ho and his team at Terra Garden created the Neo Nusantara concept of obscure facts of our cultures, not known by many. gardens, he knew it would be something that belonged to Malaysians, not just the garden it- self but the story behind it.
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EV_HFN_VOL42_TERRA.indd 72 7/4/2012 2:37:49 PM The Malaysian Garden Lifestyle
The 5 Senses Harness the pleasure of Mother Nature with your family. Essence of the
Malaysian Garden Sometimes also known as The Malaysian Garden, Neo Nusantara literally translates to “New Malay Ar- chipelago”. Our multi-racial culture and tradition is a A garden must be pleasing to result from the blending of many others within the the eyes. With a focal point region, taking shape and evolving throughout hun- and beautiful layout, a garden dreds of years. The Malaysian Garden concept em- 1 becomes inviting and entices braces this cultural concoction in its range of garden SIGHT you to enter and experience it designs and wooden furniture, making each of these components not only versatile in use, unique, and highly resistant to the Malaysian tropical climate, but Once you enter, the garden also one that has its own tale and legend to tell. must reward you with comfort. More than just a garden concept of beauty and gran- It should allow you to sit and deur, it aims to harness pleasure from Mother Nature 2 stay to enjoy the surroundings, her e hro h yo r fi e en e – he ery nce or even take a nap with of Neo Nusantara. Imagine having your breakfast in TOUCH cushions on the oor. the garden, you calm yourself with sight of plants and greeneries, listen to the chirping of birds, enjoy he end o rom rom he ower nd yo r Once you’re comfortable, the coffee, savor your favorite French pastries as garden must produce soothing you feel the morning breeze oozing through the sounds to lull you to rest. leaves. The Malaysian Garden prides Such sounds are created from itself as creating 3 the bubbling water feature, SOUND which will also attract other sounds of nature, such as birds chirping or crickets.
Even a small space such as a balcony can en, the breeze will carry the be made into one for delightful scent of fragrant unwinding with friends. plants is very important – 4 ideally located beside the SMELL seating areas.
Finally, imagine having a cup of co ee or tea in this outdoor setting, gazing at the stars or 5 TASTE the full moon, or rejuvenating your soul watching the sun rise. is is what outdoor living is all about.
edefin n d on y 2012 73
EV_HFN_VOL42_TERRA.indd 73 7/4/2012 2:37:52 PM Lifestyle The Malaysian Garden
A LOCAL FLAVOR Components that make up the Malaysian Garden draw inspiration from the culture and tradition of our beloved native soil as well as from the ora of the land. Here are some of the components that is more than just an ornament, but one that tells a story. Incorporate a hammock and have a swaying slumber out in your garden. KEKISI is unique lattice design is inspired by the Kain Pelikat or Malaysian an outdoor living area, extend- The truth is, the Malaysian Gar- sarong pattern. e sarong can ing the indoors of your home into den has not only been well- be considered a staple of a truly the garden. received within the country but Malaysian lifestyle as one can nd from all over the world. Began by men of all races using it even today. Now when you have a visitor to exporting prefabricated designs your home, instead of just show- to Switzerland, Ireland and Aus- ing off your exotic plants or how r c n 200 o 2006 err PANGKIN well-kept your garden is, you can Garden now receives orders from is “Malaysian” bench is a raised invite them for tea outside as you as far as Mexico. And because it timber platform commonly used by both comfortably sit on the Kuda- is such a versatile garden con- the paddy farmers as a resting place kuda, a unique garden bench that cept that requires no hacking or under the shade of trees. It is still used is still traditionally used in small digging, it can even be incorpo- in rural villages across the country. villages for many purposes. And rated into foreign lifestyles. So because each and every compo- instead of a traditional low-rise nent has a history behind it, you Pangkin, which is a raised timber KUDA-KUDA can proudly tell an interesting platform resembling an over- Another bench with a Malaysian story on the very furniture you are sized deckchair, elements of the interpretation, the kuda-kuda is truly sitting on. Malaysian Garden are now given unique. It serves a multipurpose role a new interpretation in a wooden as a bench, a divider, a shelf or simply “My dream is to eventually make hut with high bar stools for the as an ornament. the Malaysian Garden one that summer months in Europe. belongs to all Malaysians, not just Terra Garden alone, something Winning numerous prestigious DAYANG BUNTING that can be easily recognized with awards and having been part of e Malaysian Garden is distinctive the Malaysian identity. It is like international exhibitions from and easily recognizable from this water when yo o o n yo c n across the globe, the Malaysian feature component. is terra cotta pot den y ne e rden n ny Garden is an excellent creation is adorn with intricate oral carvings, home instantly with its koi ponds of an outdoor room that marries based on Malaysian art. It can also be and rocks. The same goes for a culture, nature, and the human used as a garden lamp. Balinese Garden with its Hindu senses. It is something that re- inspired carvings,” says Desmond ec o r ery den y y- who created this concept back in sians and something that we can PUCUK REBUNG ye r 2000. truly be proud of. A nature-inspired design of the Malaysian Garden, it is inspired by the humble bamboo shoot. e Pucuk Rebung is used both as a garden lamp and a water feature. The Malaysian Garden inspired bar-hut in the United Kingdom.
74 y 2012 edefin n d on
EV_HFN_VOL42_TERRA.indd 74 7/2/2012 10:58:26 AM AUGUST 2012 BUILDING AND CONSTRUCTION / PROFESSIONAL EXECUTIVE SEMINARS AT JW MARRIOTT HOTEL, KUALA LUMPUR WWW.ASIAPACIFICEVENTS.COM
Audit and Effective Financial Management and Control Effective and Efficient Debt Collection: of Real Estate Projects The Law, Practice and Procedure No. D1 No. D4 Date: 2 & 3 August 2012 Date: 10 August 2012 Speaker: Mr. Gursharan Singh, C.M.I.I.A. Speaker: Mr. Alex Chang Huey Wah, Advocate & Solicitor, LLB - Buka Puasa Voucher* at Hotel for Muslim participants. * Valid for Ramadhan month (Hons) Lond QMC, CLP - Buka Puasa Voucher* at Hotel for Muslim participants. * Valid for Ramadhan month FIDIC Design-Build and Turnkey Contracts: Preparation, Nature, Rights, Obligations and Duties of Clients / Basic Contract Law and Drafting Contracts for Contractors / Construction Professionals and Commercial Transactions for Non-Legal Managers Contracts Administration and Executives No. D2 No. D5 Date: Date: 7 & 8 August 2012 13 August 2012 Speaker: Speaker: Ir. Harbans Singh K.S., B.E. (Mech) S’pore, Mr. Teng Kam Wah, LLB (Hons), LLM (London), BSc (Hons) (Malaya), CLP, FCIArb LLB (Hons) London, CLP, DipICArb, P.E., C. Eng., MIEM, - Buka Puasa Voucher* at Hotel for Muslim participants. * Valid for Ramadhan month MIMechE, MIHEEM, MASHRAE, MCIArb, MMIArb - Buka Puasa Voucher* at Hotel for Muslim participants. * Valid for Ramadhan month Laws and Regulations Governing Buying and Selling Effective Management for Properties and Facilities Properties in Malaysia: Practice and Procedures (In Regard to Building Management) No. D6 No. D3 Date: 15 August 2012 Date: 9 & 10 August 2012 Speaker: Ms. Esther Ong, Advocate & Solicitor, LL.B (Hons) Speaker: Mr. Mike Pong Yeang Yong, M.Sc. (Facilities Manage- Uni. of London & CLP (Hons) - Buka Puasa Voucher* at Hotel for Muslim participants. * Valid for Ramadhan month ment) UK, Certified Trainer by PSMB - Buka Puasa Voucher* at Hotel for Muslim participants. * Valid for Ramadhan month
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APD.indd 1 7/5/2012 10:11:29 AM Guide Real Estate Directory
BANK NEGARA MALAYSIA FIRE PREVENTION COUNCIL KEMENTERIAN PERUMAHAN en r n o y MALAYSIA (FIPCOM) DAN KERAJAAN TEMPATAN Jalan Dato’ Onn, Level 4, Block B North, n ry o o n nd 50929 Kuala Lumpur. Damansara Town Centre, Local Government T +603 2698 8044 50644 Kuala Lumpur. n ry o o n nd oc o ernmen F +603 2691 2990 T +6019 261 9657 Aras 1-38, No.51, E nm e e n nm. o .my F +603 2092 5063 Persiaran Perdana, Presint 4, www. nm. o .my E n o fi com.or .my 62100 r y . www.fi com.or .my T +603 8891 5000 BUILDING MANAGEMENT F +603 8891 3182 ASSOCIATION OF INSTITUT BANK-BANK www. . o .my MALAYSIA (BMAM) MALAYSIA (IBBM) 2-3-37, Third Floor, n e o n er y KEMENTERIAN TENAGA, TEKNOLOGI Wisma Rampai, Jalan 34/26, Wisma IBI, 5 Jalan Semantan, HIJAU DAN AIR (KETTHA) Taman Sri Rampai, Setapak, m n r e h n ry o ner y 53300 Kuala Lumpur. 50490 Kuala Lumpur. reen echno o y nd er T +603 4149 1719 / 1082 T +603 2095 6833 oc rce F +603 4143 4739 F +603 2095 2322 Federal Government Administrative Centre, E en 1 y hoo.com E m m.or .my 6266 r y . www. m.or .my T +603 8883 6200 CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY F +603 8889 3712 DEVELOPMENT BOARD (CIDB) INSTITUT PENILAIAN E we m er e h . o .my em em n n n nd r NEGARA (INSPEN) www. e h . o .my em n n y National Institute of Valuation n 7 r nd e on en e er r n n n MALAYSIA GREEN BUILDING 72 n h n 3000 n e n or. CONFEDERATION 53000 Kuala Lumpur. T +603 8925 9377 / 8925 9358 6 n n T +603 2617 0200 E we m er n en. o .my 50480 Kuala Lumpur. F +603 2617 0220 www. n en. o .my T +603 2698 8235 E c d c d . o .my F +603 2698 8236 www.c d . o .my INSTITUT PEREKABENTUK E n o m c.or .my DALAMAN MALAYSIA (IPDM) www.m c.or .my DEPARTMENT OF y n n e o n er or e ner IMMIGRATION MALAYSIA 6 n n MALAYSIA MY SECOND HOME n ry o ome r 50480 Kuala Lumpur CENTRE (MM2H) e e 1 7 od m T +603 2691 5607 n ry o o r m y 15 Persiaran Perdana, Precint 2, F +603 2694 6434 Level 10, No.2, Tower 1, 62 0 r y . E dm0 re my .com Jalan P5/6, Presint 5 T +603 8880 1000 www. dm.or .my 62200 r y . F +603 8880 1200 T +603 8891 7000/7427/7434 www. m . o .my ISKANDAR REGIONAL F +603 8891 7415 DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY (IRDA) E n o mm2h. o .my DEWAN PERNIAGAAN MELAYU Suite 5-3, 5th Floor, Block 3B, www.mm2h. o .my MALAYSIA KUALA LUMPUR (DPPM) Plaza Sentral, Jalan Stesen Sentral 5, The Kuala Lumpur 50470 Kuala Lumpur. MALAYSIA PROPERTY INCORPORATED Chamber of Commerce T +603 2260 6777 (MPI) 17 h oor e e n F +603 2260 7999 Unit 6-03A, Level 6, Jalan Tun Razak, E n r e rd .com.my Menara UAC, 12 Jalan PJU 7/5, 50400, Kuala Lumpur. www. nd rm y .com.my Mutiara Damansara, T +603 4041 8522 7 00 e n y e n or. F +603 4041 4502 JABATAN KERJA RAYA T +603 7724 1878 www.klmcc.com MALAYSIA (JKR) F +603 7724 1877 y n c or e r men E n o m y ro er y nc.com FIABCI ASIA PACIFIC e n er y www.m y ro er y nc.com n ern on e e Jalan Sultan Salahuddin, eder on c fic 50582 Kuala Lumpur. MALAYSIAN ASSOCIATED e 12 12 T +603 2691 9011 INDIAN CHAMBER OF COMMERCE Plaza Mont’ Kiara, F +603 2698 8187 AND INDUSTRY (MAICC) 2 Jalan Kiara, Mont’ Kiara, e n en e 11 50480, Kuala Lumpur. JABATAN PENILAIAN DAN Block B, 9th Floor, Unit 1,12, T +603 6203 9728 / 29 PERKHIDMATAN HARTA (JPPH) n w n en F +603 6203 9727 on nd ro er y 50450 Kuala Lumpur. E n o fi c c fic.com Services Department T +603 2171 2616 www.fi c c fic.com Aras 9, Perbendaharaan 2, F +603 2171 1195 7 Persiaran Perdana, Presint 2, E n o m cc .or .my FIABCI MALAYSIA 62 2 r y . www.m cc .or .my n ern on e e T +603 8886 9000 eder on y F +603 8886 9001 MALAYSIAN INSTITUTE OF e 12 10 www. h. o .my ESTATE AGENTS (MIEA) Wisma Sunrise, Unit C-27-05, Three 2 Square, Plaza Mont Kiara, JABATAN PERANCANGAN 2 n 1 1 6300 e n y 2 Jalan Kiara, Mont Kiara, BANDAR DAN DESA e n or. 50480, Kuala Lumpur. SEMENANJUNG MALAYSIA T +603 7960 2577 T +603 6203 5090 / 5091 Jalan Cenderasari, F +603 7960 3757 F +603 6203 4090 50646 Kuala Lumpur. E ecre r m e .com.my E fi c m y fi c .com.my T +603 2698 9211 www.m e .com.my www.fi c .com.my F +603 2692 9994 E we m er own n. o .my MASTER BUILDERS ASSOCIATION www. own n. o .my MALAYSIA (MBAM) 2 1 1 oor n 2 10 Desa Business Park, Taman Desa, n n m 58100 Kuala Lumpur. T +603 7984 8636 F +603 7982 6811 E m m01 m m.or .my www.m m.or .my
76 y 2012 edefin n d on
directory2.indd 76 7/2/2012 11:00:38 AM Real Estate Directory Guide
MINISTRY OF TOURISM MALAYSIA PERTUBUHAN AKITEK THE EAST COAST ECONOMIC emen er n e ncon n y MALAYSIA (PAM) REGION (ECERDC) No.2, Tower 1, Jalan P5/6, y n n e o rch ec Level 69, Tower 2, rec n 62200 r y . 6 n n w n ower T +603 8891 7000 50480 Kuala Lumpur, m r y en re F +603 8891 7100 T +603 2693 4182 50088 Kuala Lumpur. E n o mo o r. o .my F +603 2692 8782 T +603 2035 0021 / 22 www.mo o r. o .my E n o m.or .my F +603 2035 0020 www. m.or .my E ecre r ecerdc.com.my NATIONAL HOUSE BUYERS www.ecerdc.com.my ASSOCIATION REAL ESTATE AND HOUSING 31 Level 3, Jalan Barat, DEVELOPERS’ ASSOCIATION THE INSTITUTION OF Off Jalan Imbi, 55100, Kuala Lumpur. (REHDA) MALAYSIA SURVEYORS, MALAYSIA (ISM) T +603 2142 2225 / +6012 3345 676 y 3rd oor n n n r r F +603 2260 1803 50G-3, 50H-3, 50I-3 Kelana Mall, 64-66, Jalan 52/4, E n o h .or .my n 6 1 e n y 6200 e n y www.h .or .my 7301 e n y e n or. e n or. T +603 7954 8358 / 7955 1773 / 7956 9728 PERFORMANCE MANAGEMENT T +603 7803 2978 F +603 7955 0253 AND DELIVERY UNIT (PEMANDU) F +603 7805 1206 / 7803 5285 E ecre r m.or .my e e 3 oc m r erd n r d n E [email protected] www. m.or .my Federal Government Administrative Centre www.rehda.com 62 02 r y . THE MALAYSIAN ASSOCIATION F +603 8888 7107 SABAH DEVELOPMENT OF HOTELS (MAH) E em nd o .my CORRIDOR (SDC) er n o e y www. em nd . o .my o 1 m C5-2, Wisma MAH, n n en m n n m n m 1 1 PERSATUAN KONTRAKTOR INDIA 88873, Kota Kinabalu, ne m n en e MALAYSIA (PKIM) Sabah. 6 000 m n . y n nd n on r c or oc on T +6088 450650 T +603 4251 8477 y F +6088 450699 F +603 4252 8477 o. 2 om e www. dc. o .my E n o ho e .or .my Batu 3, Jalan Ipoh, www.ho e .or .my 51200 Kuala Lumpur. SABAH HOUSING AND T +603 6257 8045 / 7944 REAL ESTATE DEVELOPERS THE NORTHERN CORRIDOR F +603 6257 4944 ASSOCIATION (SHAREDA) ECONOMIC REGION (NCER) E dm n m.or .my o 1 3 3rd oor e er y No. 4, Jalan Residensi, www. m.or .my Jalan Bundusan, 10 0 n n 88300 Kota Kinabalu, T +604 7329 881 PERSATUAN KONTRAKTOR Sabah. F +604 7342 881 MELAYU MALAYSIA (PKMM) T +6088 720 848 / 722 849 www.ncer.com.my y n y on r c or oc on F +6088 720 843 No.26, Jalan 3/3c, Sri Utara Batu Caves, E [email protected] THE MALAYSIAN BAR COUNCIL 68100 Batu Caves, www.shareda.com d n m n y e n or. No. 13, 15 & 17, T +603 6250 5066 SARAWAK CORRIDOR OF Leboh Pasar Besar, F +603 6250 4066 RENEWABLE ENERGY (SCORE) 50050 Kuala Lumpur. www. mm.or .my 6 h 7 h h oor m y T +603 2031 3003 3 02 ch n F +603 2026 1313 PERSATUAN PENGURUSAN Sarawak. E co nc m y n r.or .my KOMPLEKS MALAYSIA (PPKM) T +6082 49276 / 85 www.m y n r.or .my y n oc on or ho n F +6082 449481/442536 nd h r e om e n emen E we m er . r w . o .my TRIBUNAL FOR A113, 1st Floor, Block A, www. . r w . o .my HOMEBUYERS CLAIMS 1 Jalan SS 20/27, Damasara Intan, n ry o o n nd 7 00 e n y SARAWAK HOUSING AND Local Government e n or. REAL ESTATE DEVELOPERS e e 2 o o h T +603 7727 6202 / 6232 ASSOCIATION (SHEDA) Damansara Town Center, F +603 7727 6203 Sub-lot 42, 2nd Floor, 50782 Kuala Lumpur. E m h m.ne .my n on ommerc en re T +603 2092 4488 / 2099 8405 / 2099 8402 www. m.or .my Jalan Setia Raja, F +603 2093 4776 / 2095 9309 33 0 ch n E r n . o .my PERSATUAN PENILAI, Sarawak. ehome. . o .my PENGURUS HARTA, EJEN HARTA T +6082 366 334 / 434 / 960 & PERUNDING HARTA F +6082 365 001 UNIT PERANCANG EKONOMI SWASTA MALAYSIA (PEPS) E ecre r hed .or .my conom c nn n n Association of Valuers, www. hed .or .my Blok B5, Kompleks Jabatan Perdana Menteri, ro er y n er e en Pusat Pentadbiran Persekutuan, nd ro er y on n n he THE CHINESE CHAMBER OF 62 02 r y . r e ec or y COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY T +603 8872 3333 2nd oor n n n r r OF KUALA LUMPUR AND F +603 8888 3755 No 64-66, Jalan 52/4, SELANGOR (KLSCCCI) E e e . o .my 6200 e n y 7th Floor, Wisma Chinese Chamber, www.e . o .my e n or. 2 n m n T +603 7960 1318 50450, Kuala Lumpur. F +603 7960 1518 T +603 4253 2135 E ecre r e .or .my F +603 4253 2524 www. e .or .my E n ry ch ne ech m er.or .my www.ch ne ech m er.or .my
edefin n d on y 2012 77
directory2.indd 77 7/2/2012 11:00:38 AM Guide MM2H
MALAYSIA My Second Home
MM2H BENEFITS Alternatively, they have the option to apply for the 1. All MM2H participants are entitled to purchase Spouse Program. 4 MOST IMPORTANT one duty-free car and must be locally assembled. 4. The 10-year Social Visit Pass is extended to ENTRY REQUIREMENTS Valid for one year upon the date of endorsement all Silver Hair and MM2H participants who Aged 50 and above of the MM2H stickers. The second car onwards were re o y ro ed nder he fi e ye r 1. Proof of monthly income (off-shore) of not less than will be at the current market rate. Social Visit Pass, subject to the validity of their RM10,000. 2. MM2H participants can buy more than one unit passports. 2. Latest three months personal bank statement with of property but each must be valued above 5. Employment Pass holders who wish to participate the current closing balance of above RM350,000. RM500,000. in the MM2H program are exempted from the To show a Letter of Good Conduct. 3. MM2H participants are given an I-Card by the “cooling off period” on the condition that their 3. o o en fi ed de o cco n n ny oc n Malaysian government for their convenience application to participate in MM2H program is 4. for the sum of RM150,000 after approval. when traveling around Malaysia. submitted three months before the expiry of the 4. MM2H participants wishing to withdraw their money Employment Pass. Aged 50 and below from the Fixed Deposit accounts can do so after one 6. ID Cards will be issued to MM2H participants with 1. Proof of monthly income (off-shore) of not less year for the purpose of buying properties, children’s permanent address in Malaysia. This is validated than RM10,000. education and medical expenses. by submitting the Sale and Purchase Agreement 2. Latest three months personal bank statement with 5. A special counter is allocated for MM2H or Tenancy Agreement in Malaysia. the current closing balance of above RM500,000. participants in KLIA. 7. Age limit of unmarried dependent children 3. To show a Letter of Good Conduct. 6. fied 2 r c n ed 0 nd o e is raised from 18 years old to 21 years old. A 4. o o en fi ed de o cco n n ny oc n are allowed to work in selected industries for not declaration stating that the child is unmarried and for the sum of RM300,000 after approval. more than 20 hours per week. all expenses during the stay in Malaysia will be 7. MM2H participants are allowed to invest and borne by the principal participant of the MM2H application and submission purposes to the actively participate in business, subject to existing program is required. Immigration Department and Ministry of Tourism. government’s policies, regulations and guidelines. “Dependents” include unmarried children aged n n o er on ond w h c n on 8. All MM2H participants will now enjoy a 10-year 21 years and below, step-children, disabled behalf of the Malaysian Government to guarantee Social Visit Pass, subject to the validity of their children and parents. good conduct of the participants throughout their passports. 8. As of 1 January 2010, MM2H participants are stay in Malaysia. 9. Employment Pass holders wishing to participate subject to 5% Real Property Gain Tax (RPGT) if o ow on c on. in the MM2H program are exempted from the he r ro er e re d o ed w h n he fi e ye r “cooling off period” on the condition that their time frame. Stage 2: Assisting Participants to Relocate application to participate in the program is to Malaysia, RM3,000 (maximum) submitted three months prior to the expiry of REQUIREMENTS FOR OPENING rr n e or r n or on nd ccommod on their Employment Pass. OF FIXED DEPOSIT ACCOUNT for participants upon their arrival in Malaysia. 10. MM2H participants can bring their unmarried Aged 50 and above r c n o o en fi ed de o children as dependents under the program Minimum deposit, RM150,000. accounts and arrange for insurance policies and provided they are aged 21 and below. They can a. Minimum lock-in period, ONE year. medical reports (if required). also bring their stepchildren, disabled children b. Auto renewal is recommended. r n r c n o he mm r on and parents as dependents under the program. Request for TWO receipts upon application: Department to pay Visa fees. c. i. For the sum of RM50,000. IMPROVEMENTS ON MM2H ii. For the sum of RM100,000. d. n o fic e er rom he n er cce Total fee, RM10,000 per participant (AS OF 13 FEBRUARY 2009) opening of the account. (maximum). 1. fied 2 r c n ed 0 nd o e with specialized skills and expertise that are Aged 50 and below Additional Services available required in the critical sectors of the economy a. Minimum deposit, RM300,000. – Prices are negotiable with Agents are allowed to work on a part time basis. The b. Minimum lock-in period, ONE year. en or rch e ro er e . approval to work part time is subject to the Auto renewal is recommended. c on or m or ed c r . following conditions: c. Request for FOUR receipts upon application: c on or ho em d . a. The application is approved by the MM2H i. TWO receipts for the sum of RM100,000. c on or c r e em on. Special Committee. ii. TWO receipts for the sum of RM50,000. rr n emen o r n he r e on n rom b. The work contract needs to state that MM2H d. n o fic e er rom he n er overseas. participants are working on a part time basis with successful opening of the account. e r on or den e or choo or work schedule attached. colleges (for applicant’s children). c. Total number of work hours a week does not MM2H AGENTS’ FEES c on o w hdr w rom fi ed de o exceed 20 hours. accounts after a period of one year. 2. MM2H participants are allowed to invest and (AS APPROVED BY THE MINISTRY OF e r on or hone ne or e ec r c y or actively participate in business, subject to existing water government policies, regulations and guidelines TOURISM MALAYSIA) supply for participants’ properties. Stage 1: Application Process, which are in force for the relevant sectors. on on on r e c e e or on RM7,000 (maximum) 3. Foreign spouses of Malaysian nationals are purchasing of properties. ro de d ce nd con on o he eligible to apply for MM2H, subject to the ny o her dd on er ce on re e or applicants on the latest rules and regulations. terms and conditions of the MM2H program. proposed by the companies. re r on o re red doc men or
Home Finder, Official Magazine of the Malaysia My Second Home Agents’ Association Malaysia My Second Home Agents Association can be reached at +603-90571070, email [email protected], fax +603-90570943. Its office is located at 9-1A, Jalan 10/125D, Desa Petaling, 57100 Kuala Lumpur.
78 y 2012 edefin n d on
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HFAd.indd 2-3 7/3/2012 11:33:28 AM