THE ISKANDARIAN ISSUE 94

Iskandar KDN : PP19356/08/2018(034949) | Singapore MICA : MCI (P) 079/12/2019 Malaysia’s Official Newspaper ItShKe ANDARIAN is an effort by ISSUE 94 | JUNE 2020 | True Soul Media PLT & Iskandar Regional KPRJ Accumulating Monthly Drill Development Brings Wealth Authority (IRDA) Hope with Serena Yong, Light at the End CEO of Regency Iskandar Page 23 of the Tunnel Malaysia Specialist Page 15 Hospital USTDA Advances Smart City Page 7 Priorities Page 3 Body temperature screening in progress at Senai International Airport main entrance Senai International Airport Upgrades Travelling Procedures As more flights resume, new and procedures include requiring all social distancing by placing 1-metre disinfection exercise in cooperation with measures are in place passengers and airport users to wear face separation markings at the common areas Johor State Fire and Rescue Department mask and undergo body temperature including at the check-in counters, seating to protect our airport users,” said Md Senai International Airport is all screening at the airport entrance with only areas, boarding gates, elevators, baggage Derick Basir, Chief Executive Officer of Senai set with upgraded travelling those temperature below 37.5ºC will be pick-up area and others. Meanwhile, Airport. procedures and new measures to allowed to enter the building. To ensure hand sanitizers, soap and water are made ensure passengers’ health safety as the procedure implementation, the entry available around the terminal area and With the new travelling procedures airlines resume more domestic flights in and exit to the terminal building is limited washrooms to encourage good personal implemented, passengers are advised to stages for the upcoming weeks. to the main entrance only and is controlled hygiene amongst the airport users. arrive at the airport 90 minutes before by the Aviation Security personnel. departure time to avoid long queue. Amongst the additional measures “Apart from continuous disinfecting Passengers are also encouraged to use Senai International Airport has also put and sanitizing of high usage areas, the online check-in to save time and ensure Temple President K. Kiruppalini KMN in place measures for passengers to practice airport has recently undergone a full-scale smooth travel. - by The Iskandarian TI T he management of Johor Bahru’s Mother Temple Comes century-old Hindu temple, to the Aid of the Needy Arulmigu Rajamariamman Devasthanam Temple stepped a reduction of 20% till August 2020 for The temple which is also known as up to provide aid to the society during the the flower shops along Jalan Ungku the ‘mother temple’, manages the Hindu Movement Control Order (MCO). Puan which is estimated to cost around crematorium along Jalan Kebun Teh which RM150,000 and another RM20,000 which will remain open as a social obligation to K. Kiruppalini KMN, President of is to be channelled to other subsidies. serve the community. - by Norfy Shafeq TI temple trustee unveiled a RM200,000 aid plan which included a welfare fund of RM30,000 to help needy families with groceries and cash, rental waiver with www.facebook.com/theiskandarian @theISKANDARIAN www.linkedin.com/company/theiskandarian/ www.theiskandarian.com

02 ISSUE 94 | JUNE 2020 THE ISKANDARIAN NEWS NGOs Lead the Way SEND LETTERs IMSHA winners led by IMSHA winners Ihsan Johor IMSHA Chairman Thanam Visvanathan, Yayasan Kebajikan or inquiries and Yayasan Kebajian Suria. Suria James Ho, Ihsan Johor Farrah Baptist and IMSHA to network of NGOs & Founder Edey Suresh “The volunteers are facebook.com/theiskandarian NGIs collaborate to assembled in staggered phases [email protected] to ensure social distancing was www.theiskandarian.com provide aid maintained. We all want to serve the community, but we must also Our Friends Humble people from adhere to the Movement Control various backgrounds Order (MCO) and ensure steps are and beliefs came taken accordingly,” said Farrah The programme is part of a and Kempas areas were the together to fulfil social Baptist, CEO of Ihsan Johor who food aid campaign which will needs of the community by coordinated the programme. have five series overall. In total, beneficiaries. The programme was contributing their time and 1178 families in the Masai, Larkin completed in under three-hours. - efforts to do their part to improve In total, around 120 baskets or by Edey Suresh TI the lives of others. 4 tonnes of non-leafy vegetables and 200 chickens which was cut in Iskandar Malaysia Social Hero half was packed by the volunteers. Awards (IMSHA) winners’ network The vegetable produce was of NGOs and Volunteers gathered donated by Persatuan Kebajikan the strength of 130 volunteers Sooriya Udhayam, Kulai and the who devoted themselves to serve chickens were donated by Aqina 1178 families. The initiative was Farms. New Norm in Schools MICCI: MCO is to upon Reopening Flatten the Curve, Not to Eradicate Gleneagles The Ministry of said during a live tv Teachers Day the Virus interview, while adding that schools MEDINI Education will may alternatively utilise school halls as S ince the Movement makeshift classrooms. Control Order “In The Arms Of One Who Cares” provide constant (MCO) was on Students will also receive pre- effect nationwide guidance and packed food served in school since March 2020 to curb Malaysian International canteens and no gatherings are COVID-19 pandemic, the Chamber of Commerce support allowed, citing the ministry is putting Malaysian International and Industry (MICCI), the safety and health of students as Chamber of Commerce and Datuk Tan Cheng Kiat Dr Mohd Radzi Md Jidin, the top priority. Industry (MICCI) through Education Minister has their media statement, diseases or even the recognised the challenges Standard Operating Procedures expressed their gratitude to common flu. that may prevail when (SOPs) for students will be the government especially schools reopen after the Movement implemented and as the Form Five to Ministry of Health where He pointed out that, Control Order (MCO) is lifted and that and Six students make up the smallest frontliners are working “Some key mid to long term includes ensuring social distancing number, they would be the first batch tirelessly, then further effects of prolonged MCO among students during lesson time to start school where it is easier to reminded the initial intent are irreversible damage to and around the school compound. control and monitor while ensuring of MCO is to flatten the the country’s fiscal health, the appropriate SOPs are being carried curve and not to eradicate loss of reputation as a global All schools will be informed two out properly without a hitch with the the virus completely. supply chain provider, loss weeks in advance before the actual teachers to take up the role as SOP of confidence from foreign opening day. enforcer. Additional details on other “It’s time to make direct investments, delayed groups of students to return to school decisions based not on fear education of future human New norms for schools will include will be disclosed later. but facts. The facts are that talents and potential loss of hosting half the usual amount of the Malaysian mortality rate employment of more than a students; 17 students maximum per The ministry is also looking from COVID-19 is extremely million employees”. classroom. into how to improve education for low and almost all the deaths students both in schools and at home, are from underlying medical “In conjunction with “Large classes (however) can encouraging home-based learning conditions such as diabetes, the final lifting of the MCO, house a little over 20 students,” he among students post-MCO. - by Norfy heart disease, hypertension active enforcement of MOH Shafeq TI and cancer,” said MICCI SOP compliance, localised President president Datuk EMCO, border controls, Education Minister Dr Mohd Radzi Md Jidin (pic: Jabatan Penerangan Tan Cheng Kiat. social distancing and Johor Facebook page) sanitary practices should The 183-years old continue,” added Datuk chamber cited them going Tan Cheng Kiat. - by Norfy through two world wars Shafeq TI and multiple economic events and added that a prolonged MCO will have far more damage to the country’s well-being than the epidemic itself given that the death rate is exponentially lower than existing non-communicable Published by True Soul Media PLT [No.51-B, Jalan Impian Emas 5/1, Taman Impian Emas, 81300 Johor Bahru] Printed by Percetakan Osacar Sdn Bhd [No. 16, Jalan IDA 1a, Industrial Desa Aman, Taman Desa Aman, Kepong, 52200 Kuala Lumpur] Copyright of articles, contributions and photos which are published by The Iskandarian is the property of True Soul Media PLT. The Iskandarian does its best to ensure the authenticity and accuracy of its contents, the publisher cannot accept any responsibilities for errors, mistakes and inaccuracies. The publisher reserves the rights of this product and no part of this publication may be reproduced in any form or by any means without the permission of the publisher.

03 ISSUE 94 | JUNE 2020 THE ISKANDARIAN NEWS USTDA Advances Iskandar Malaysia’s Smart City Priorities U.S. Trade and Development disseminate data that will facilitate urban (IRDA) will develop implementation plans and around the region,” said Datuk Ismail Agency announced it will provide planning and policy making,” said Thomas for the Iskandar Malaysia Urban Observatory Ibrahim, Chief Executive of IRDA. grant funding for technical R. Hardy, USTDA’s Acting Director. “U.S. (IMUO) project, a top smart cities priority for assistance that will transform how companies possess the most innovative and Malaysia. Iskandar Malaysia is an economic U.S. businesses interested in submitting Malaysia’s fast-growing Iskandar Malaysia cutting-edge solutions in this policy space region with a holistic development agenda proposals for the USTDA-funded technical region manages its urban planning and and are eager to partner with Iskandar covering economy, social and environment. assistance should visit the USTDA website development through advanced data Malaysia to achieve its ambitious smart city It is located within the State of Johor in at https://www.ustda.gov/business- analytics. goals.” Southern Malaysia and encompasses more opportunities. IRDA also welcomes any than 2.0 million people across five cities. parties who are interested to jointly work “USTDA’s targeted investments will help Specifically, USTDA’s grant to the Through this collaboration and the use of on their Smart City initiatives at www. Iskandar Malaysia collect, manage and Iskandar Regional Development Authority smart technologies, as well as advanced iskandarmalaysia.com.my/SCIM. This regional data analytics, USTDA foresees collaboration between IRDA and USTDA is Iskandar Malaysia becoming a premier part of the Asian Smart City Network (ASCN) sustainable and inclusive “smart region.” initiative. - by The Iskandarian TI “IMUO collates and analyses data into Virtual signing of MoU between both information that can assist the government, parties businesses and people make timely and informed decisions. This smart people- technology partnership is becoming more important as we try to understand, plan and adapt to the fast changing and challenging local and global environment which is also embracing an ever innovative and progressive online economy. We are pleased to have received the trust, acknowledgement and support, from USTDA in this big data initiative that will definitely benefit the many parties within Pantai & Gleneagles Hospitals Nationwide Launches eHealth Video Consultation Giving patients to visit our hospitals as we have put in closer to the patient’s place strict infection control procedures to convenient access to protect our patients and staff, the launch appointment date of eHealth Video Consultation is a value treatment options with added service to help patients who are and on appointment unable to visit our hospitals for whatever their preferred specialist reasons,” said Parkway Pantai’s Chief day, patient needs to Executive Officer of Malaysia Operations Patients can now have online access Division, Jean-Francois Naa. logon to the eHealth to close to 200 specialists, with more to come, at 11 Pantai Hospitals He further reassured that Pantai and Video Consultation and 4 Gleneagles Hospitals via the Gleneagles Hospitals commit to ensure newly launched eHealth Video Consultation uninterrupted provision of specialists website and click service. The easy-to-use virtual consultation and services. The launch of eHealth Video platform allows patients to seek medical Consultation is testament to its efforts to ‘enter video room’ consultation with their preferred specialists constantly evolve and revolutionise its from the comfort of their homes to identify medical practises with systems to keep up for their scheduled the appropriate treatment options. with current and future needs. consultation. For a start, teleconsultations are open “We want to provide patients with to existing patients from Pantai Hospitals continuous care, giving them more Currently eHealth & Gleneagles Hospitals for a variety of convenience and access to consultation specialties such as Cardiology, Oncology, to a specialist of their choice. This is the Video Consultation Orthopaedic, Neurology, Dermatology, driving force behind the launch of this Nephrology, Paediatrics, Urology, Obstetrics platform,” he continued. is available to and Gynaecology, Ophthalmology, Psychiatry and many more. Appointment booking on eHealth follow-up patients, Video Consultation platform is simple with Patients can also choose to have only four easy steps: First, patients need from Pantai medications delivered to their doorstep or to visit the respective hospital’s eHealth arrange for pick-up at the hospitals. eHealth Video Consultation appointment page. and Gleneagles Video Consultation is most importantly a Then select their preferred specialist, date private and secured online consultation and time slot. Next, they will be prompted Hospitals, be it in platform for patients to consult specialists to create their eHealth account using their of their choice. mobile number and fill-up the patient Malaysia or overseas. details. Lastly, appointment is confirmed via “We live in uncertain times but access SMS upon receipt of payment with options While eHealth Video to quality healthcare should not be of online banking, credit or debit card and compromised. While it’s safe for patients eWallet. An SMS reminder will be sent Consultation is easy and convenient, patients should seek immediate medical attention in case of an emergency or for any major health concerns, by visiting our nearest hospital. Pantai and Gleneagles Hospitals are part of Parkway Pantai, one of Asia’s largest Appointment Booking, please log on to; Gleneagles Hospital’s eHealth at: integrated private healthcare providers https://gleneagles.ehealth.com.my operating in Malaysia, Singapore, India, Pantai Hospital’s eHealth at: Greater China, Brunei and Sri Lanka. https://pantai.ehealth.com.my TI For eHealth Video Consultation

04 ISSUE 94 | JUNE 2020 THE ISKANDARIAN NEWS Telecommuting: Safety Measures On-Board W ith no near end A Take on to COVID-19 flight and further assessment of Productivity or pandemic and the design is underway. Procrastination? people anxious to get back to their families, some of Meanwhile, AirAsia Group Home is where Malaysian employers consider the latest season of a show the airlines abroad have already CEO Tony Fernandes clarified via telecommuting as a potential being aired or they are spending stepped up to bring people home his Instagram account that the your productivity working arrangement. working hours to check off the safely. Locally, AirAsia has recently new uniforms will only be used weekend list of chores. resumed its normal flights and for rescue flights and not during is. Or is it? For starter, telecommuting this also included recovery flights their normal flights. presents a flexible schedule for Along a similar vein, office to bring people home. As the new generation employees. They are offered a distractions exist too. For AirAsia flights have already starts streaming into the certain extent of freedom and example, the dreaded yet As passengers wellbeing resumed its flights in Malaysia workforce, companies convenience to meet deadlines. inevitable office gossips which are taken care off with required with its other operations in are attempting to shift For instance, some employees otherwise could be converted temperature screenings and Thailand, India, Indonesia, and the the paradigm of working culture may have childcare to tend to into clocked productive working so on, the crew’s health is also Philippines to follow suit subject by adopting disruptive designs so they can have peace of mind hours. paramount as they take care of to approval from the authorities.- and working programmes to before attempting a project. passengers’ needs on board. With by Priya Manikam TI engender a more conducive Certain employees excel burning Telecommuting may spell this in mind, AirAsia introduced working environment. Open the night oil whereas some are the end to micromanaging new personal protective L.A.-based Filipino designer office concept that features productive in the wee hours of employees and numerous studies equipment (PPE) COVID-19 Puey Quinones designed the transparency and boasts the morning. In addition, such have shown that its efficacy uniforms for its cabin crews. one-piece suit for AirAsia lateral communication to comfort zones may induce in boosting productivity, but The uniforms are complete with cabin crews (Pic credit from greater emphasis on work-life creativity and results in higher it is essential to acknowledge matching medical face masks, Tony Fernandes Instagram) balance resulted in a particular productivity or better quality of that telecommuting is highly plastic visors, and disposable working arrangement favoured work. dependent on the nature of the gloves. The outfit reminds you of by a myriad of multinational industry as well as personality what the Formula One race car companies — working from Though many appreciated the of the individuals for it to be drivers wear. home or telecommuting which flexibility, the main setback is that efficient. became an unavoidable reality telecommuters may be exposed Airline spokesperson Malik during COVID-19 lockdowns to a higher level of distractions So is Malaysia ready for Ridhwan Zaihan said in a around the world. and propensity to procrastinate this shift even post CMCO?- by statement to CTVNews.ca that due to the flexibility and lack Izzbil TI AirAsia Philippines initiated a Based on a 2018 survey of monitoring. With media-on- trial run of the customised PPE by TalentCorp, only 16% of demand, it is not surprising **The facts and views expressed are uniform during a recent recovery to discover telecommuters solely that of the author/authors underperforming because of and do not necessarily reflect that All the Useful of the editorial board. Websites That You Needuring this MCO period, Malaysians Abroad to Pay district councils. If you’re looking 50% of Quarantine Cost our lives are pretty to pay your compound, license, Malaysians returning from taxes, premise rental fee and abroad will have to bear make the journey home. to ensure that the letter has been D much existing digitally. even to fill in tender form. You 50% of the RM150 per day “A lot of non-Malaysians signed. Most of us didn’t can also place your booking for quarantine cost starting 1st June. anticipate this situation but it halls, courts and other facilities married to Malaysians did not As for those under the Malaysia has somehow become the new under Johor’s district councils. All non-Malaysians including want to pay. Now they will have to My Second Home programme, he normal that we’ve adapted and permanent residents and sign the agreement first,” he said. said they too would be allowed to perhaps the right move forward Check out http://johor. dependents, meanwhile, will have enter the country. technological wise. Here are ekhidmat.my/ekhidmat/ for their to pay the full cost. He added that the Malaysian some useful websites that may variety of services that you can embassies overseas would issue “But it will not be automatic. actually help you with local tap in. Defence Minister Ismail Sabri the letter to be signed before the They will have to apply. We will council’s payment even after the Yaakob said all returnees will have individuals concerned board their need to see which country they MCO is lifted. It is also available as to sign agreements to pay the flights. are coming from as some of them smartphone’s application in necessary costs before they can may be coming from high-risk MyPay both App Store and Google Play. The immigration department countries.”.- by The Iskandarian TI MyPay is a comprehensive source meanwhile will notify all airlines for consolidating government MyEG services on a single platform Yes. It has been 20 years since covering information, services, MyEG was first launched and and payment. You can get a it is still, the best to use if you personalised service where you are in need to renew various as users will receive reminders types of permits and check for all government due dates your summons, or renew your and what is even better; you will insurance. receive reward points for in-app transactions! Do take some time to go through it and it would benefit Head over to their website you greatly -https://www.myeg. and synchronise all your com.my/ government agencies-related business in all in one place We hope these sites will https://mypay.com.my/main come in handy, and if you know of any other useful websites E-Khidmat that we need to know, drop us This site is similar to MyPay that an email or message us in our is catering to local pay, mostly social sites so we can share it with more readers. - by Norfy Shafeq TI

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06 ISSUE 94 | JUNE 2020 THE ISKANDARIAN NEWS Over 15,000 Johor IMSHA’s Social Employees Affected by Pay Heroes COVID-19 Aid Cuts and Unemployment Awareness Report Jo h o r H e a l t h a n d separation scheme, and etc. T oday, more than 820 IMSHA Winner Kelab Alami providing food for foreign Environment Committee Vidyananthan said the total million people regularly workers chairman R. Vidyananthan go to bed hungry. has given a total figure of figure of 15,597, included 1,443 That’s one in nine of the increase in crime. The report will help to 15,597 employees in Johor that permanent retirements, voluntary global population. Hunger kills Social Hero Foundation (SHF) briefly capture the work of had their salaries cut or being layoffs (180), temporary layoffs more people every year than these organisations, the reach retrenched during the Movement (2,864) and salary reductions AIDS, malaria and tuberculosis and Iskandar Malaysia Social impact as well as the financial Control Order (MCO) period, (11,110). combined. Undernutrition is the Hero Awards (IMSHA) which has expenditure from the 18th of with 11,110 employees receiving cause of around 45% of deaths around 60 Non-governmental March till the 12th of May 2020. payment cuts, 1,443 being laid “The Johor Labour among children under five. organisations (NGOs) and 60 off and 180 workers quitting their Department and DOSH will Non-governmental individuals Without the involvement of employment. contact the employers to Hunger increases one’s risk (NGIs) in our IMSHA Winners NGOs and NGIs, we will not be advise them in complying with of chronic diseases. Hunger Network saw 25 of our Hero able to close the gap of disparity According to Vidyananthan’s the Prevention and Control of traps people in poverty. Hunger organisations and individuals and effectively reducing daily Johor COVID-19 updates Infectious Diseases Act 1988 (Act kills. mobilising aid to help inequality. dated 30th April, the data was 342) and if the employers still fails disadvantaged communities collected by Johor Labour to comply with the directive, the In Johor, 15,597 employees such as the poor, the stateless, The report is available for Department where 398 Johor special task force will contact the are facing unemployment or the homeless and refugees in download on Iskandar Malaysia employers have made their employer to present themselves salary reduction throughout the the city. Social Hero Awards Facebook application to state their for the purpose of complying Movement Control Order (MCO). page. - by Edey Suresh TI employees’ termination or with the enforcement order,” said This means the poverty statistics payment reduction due to the Vidyanathan. will need to be recalculated and requirement being made under the number of people going to Section 63 of the Employment Act Disobeying the order will see bed hungry in our beloved state 1955 for employers to submit any a visit of the special task force at becomes a guessing game. statement of employment being their premises and it may or may withdrawn or terminated through not involve the police to enforce Households which were the PK Form. the Prevention and Control of already facing financial stress Infectious Diseases Act 1988 (Act can’t cope with fulfilling their The PK Form, an official 342). basic needs of functioning and government form is required to cater to the needs of the to be submitted to the nearest He has also updated that the household. The ripple effects labour office. The form carries state authorities are monitoring of hunger can be huge as information such as reasons for employers closely and extended societal impacts can range from the retrenchment, number of it to their related accommodation psychological disorders to an workforce, number of workers providers which are involved involved in the voluntary directly in the management of foreign workers all over the state. - by Norfy Shafeq TI Saving Grace for the Tourism Industry amidst Pandemic Johor State Tourism, provide aid for the state’s tourism industry operators, travel agencies, tourist guides, around Johor. The final aid is for theme parks that has been severely affected by the tourism product owners as well as and family entertainment centres’ whereby Youth and Sports Movement Control Order (MCO) introduced supporting industry players. entertainment duty fees will be waived. This to curb the fast spread of the COVID-19 will total to an estimated RM3million. committee announces pandemic. Datuk Onn Hafiz Ghazi announced tourism incentives in 3 different segments More information can be obtained via incentives for the state’s In a press statement on 21st May, Johor under the Johor Ihsan Economic Stimulus Tourism Johor Facebook page at https:// Tourism, Youth and Sports committee Package. A one-off cash aid of RM1,000 www.facebook.com/tourismjohor/ tourism industry chairman Datuk Onn Hafiz Ghazi addressed as will be granted to the 936 licensed tour the struggles faced by the tourism industry guides operating in the state totalling to an Datuk Onn Hafiz also mentioned that the Johor State Tourism, Youth and Johor players. estimated RM936,000. Tourism businesses committee is in the process of developing State Tourism, Youth and Sports and hotels will be exempted from business both short and long term strategies to committee announced incentives to Hotels are facing large numbers of license fees for the year 2020 (about restore and improve the competitiveness of booking cancellations from domestic and RM894,211) benefiting 1,031 businesses the state’s tourism industry post COVID-19 foreign travellers and so are homestay situation. - by Norfy Shafeq TI

07 ISSUE 94 | JUNE 2020 THE ISKANDARIAN NEWS Serena Yong MDORNITLHLLY Chief Executive Officer Regency Specialist Hospital Serena Yong does not primarily come from a Health and Medicine Services industry. Prior to joining HMI Group under Regency Hospital as a Chief Executive Officer, Serena has clocked up close to 30 years of experience in the Information Technology industry. Her long tenure with HP Singapore began in 1988 when she joined the company as a Product Specialist responsible in managing personal computer and printing demos as well as presentations. After taking some time off to enjoy motherhood, Serena came back to the IT industry in 2000 as a Product Marketing Manager in HP Asia Pacific Region and rose through the management ranks right up to Managing Director of HP Inc Singapore. In 2018, Serena Yong was appointed the CEO of Regency and is responsible in spearheading the overall growth and development of the Hospital into becoming a leading comprehensive care hospital in Johor Bahru and Malaysia. Tell us more about Regency Specialist appointment with us two days in advance or have come into contact with anyone infectious or communicable diseases. and upon screening, the results will be suspected/confirmed to have COVID-19 Therefore, poor hygiene can increase the Hospital and its uniqueness ready within three days. have been reminded to seek medical risk of developing any kinds of infectious Founded in 2009, Regency Specialist attention and inform their supervisor, HR diseases. Infectious diseases are caused by Hospital (Regency) based in Johor, Malaysia, New medical services and facility or infection control team immediately. living organisms like viruses and bacteria, is a reputable progressive tertiary care enhancements will be announced Can you share some advice with us in and it can be passed from person to person private hospital with a current bed capacity on Regency’s website, Facebook and regards to how important personal through body secretions, insects or other of 218 and serving more than 172,000 Instagram from time to time. hygiene is to our health? means. patients annually through quality medical Taking precautionary measures like services at affordable rates. What are some of the measures and SOPs personal hygiene can be one of the many Most importantly, maintain good ways to reduce health risks. As we interact personal hygiene to reduce the risk of Strategically located within Iskandar initiated by Regency to curb the spread of with different living organisms on a daily infections and spreading to others. A Malaysia in the growing township of Bandar basis, it exposes us to a wide range of simple action such as hand washing can Seri Alam, Johor, Regency’s patients have COVID-19? prevent illnesses. People tend to forget access to advance specialty care from more We have taken enhanced measures Serena Yong to wash their hands after using the than 80 full-time specialists and visiting to protect everyone. Our frequency of washroom or before handling food, and consultant specialists across a wide range of cleaning using disinfectants has been this can cause a great deal of illnesses and medical and surgical disciplines supported increased and we also carry out deep even death. by advance medical and diagnostic cleaning at the counters, office, lobby facilities. area and common areas. Hand sanitizers A good personal hygiene can also help are prominently and sufficiently located. in our psychological health. As we present As the only private hospital in Malaysia Mandatory pre-screening and filling up ourselves as clean and tidy, it can influence offering 24-hour emergency and trauma of health declaration form at hospital our levels of confidence and self-esteem service by specialists who are board- entrance has been introduced. which can affect many aspects of our lives. certified in emergency medicine; Regency has five Centres of Excellence focusing We introduced a traffic light inspired On a personal note, why did you make a on Emergency and Trauma, Digestive systems which segregates patients into Healthcare, Heart and Lung, Neuroscience Red, Amber or Green zones according change from IT to Healthcare? and Neurospine, and Women and Children. to the individual health status. Ward I have been comfortably serving 30 years in It is also the only hospital in the Southern restrictions have also been imposed with the IT industry, and the thought of shifting region of Malaysia to offer Extracorporeal no inpatient visitors being allowed into our into healthcare is a personal decision to Membrane Oxygenation (ECMO) service wards. Only 1 caregiver is allowed to stay do good for the community. Moreover, I for seriously ill patients in need of cardiac overnight for patients who are bedridden wished to gain more insights on health- and respiratory support. The hospital’s or restricted in movement. COVID-19 team of specialists, nursing and allied screening is mandatory for all related matters. In healthcare, I’m health care providers are always ready to patients for both elective and surrounded and work closely serve with competence, compassion and emergency surgery. with experienced healthcare collaboration. professionals. Through these Keeping in mind personal interactions, I’m happy to learn Has there been a change in business health and wellbeing within and update myself on the many Regency, everyone is always interesting health issues. continuity during this COVID-19 encouraged to maintain The healthcare industry is good personal hygiene. not a sunset industry similar to pandemic? Reminders are given the IT industry. Both are fast Yes, there has been. Our top priority is to to maintain physical paced which are driven by ensure the safety of our patients and their distancing and more constant improvement and loved ones, doctors, nurses and support importantly, we have advancement. It demands staff. Our services continue to operate ensured that sufficient one to be actively updating throughout the COVID-19 pandemic but provision of PPE ourselves with the latest we have put in place several initiatives is provided for all development within the for our customers to safely access our our staffs. All team healthcare industry and medical facilities as well as services at the members are supplied to make the right decision convenience of their home. Appointments and required to wear based on our value system. can now be made online via https:// 3-ply face mask at all times appointment.regencyspecialist.com/#home/ and a Regency Care Pack What do you do in your free time? and refilling of prescriptions for patients which consists of some health I enjoy being active in both physical activities who are on chronic medications during supplement as love and care and character building. I practice yoga and the MCO period can be made over a phone for their health has been also exercise. When I’m not exercising, I still call; the delivery and pick up service for our handed out. keep myself active through learning by retail services is made available (for more reading or attending talks and seminars. I information: www.regencyretail.com), and Any of our team members also do charity work as I wish to help and those who want to make an appointment who are unwell or have come leave a positive impact in people. TI for COVID-19 screening can make an in to contact with anyone returning from overseas,

08 The Iskandarian ISSUE 94 | JUNE 2020 Advertisement

M USIC Artists Comes Together Virtually

The Iskandarian | WAVES Lifestyle JUNE 2020 | Page 2 editor’s M u s i c U p d at e s note Chester Bennington-Penned Grey Daze Song, Priya Manikam ‘Sometimes’, Offers Particularly Prescient Message [email protected] ‘Sometimes’ will be released on 26th June 2020 As businesses are conditionally allowed to operate and possibly the By Universal Music Singapore whole nation given more freedom after the 9th of June, do not rejoice Grey Daze has released initially recorded when he was download of ‘Sometimes’. and go back to the old norm. Practice social ‘Sometimes’, the third single 21),” explains Sean Dowdell, Grey The series of global listening distancing at all times, adhere to SOPs and from the band’s upcoming Daze co-founder and drummer. pay attention to hygiene. album Amends (26th June “I’ve said this in prior interviews parties that happened on 10th 2020) with a corresponding video that but this is one of those songs that April 2020 was hosted by fans for Since COVID-19 is still very much out showcases the Chester Bennington- when I hear it now, I recognise the the fans, and streamed online from there, our movie partners have put their written song’s message of hope pain Chester was living with even 10 different countries across 11 releases on hold with some of the titles being amidst unexpected times. more acutely now that I’m an adult. different time zones in 9 languages pushed to the later part of the year and even As so many of Chester’s lyrics do, (Bulgarian, Chinese, Czech, English, to next year. So, hang in there movie buffs, Chester was already a masterful this message in this song, that bad French, German, Hindi, Portuguese and I may bring you better news next month! lyricist at the age of 18, when things happen and there things will and Spanish) and across various he wrote this song (which was get better, resonates in an entirely platforms (including Facebook, For this year’s Father’s Day, why not stay different way with the current crisis Twitch, Twitter and YouTube). indoors and whip up a meal for the good ol’ we are all living through, and brings man – as they say, the way to a man’s heart a message of hope.” “Sometimes, things just seem is through his stomach! I’m sure daddy will to fall apart, when you least expect appreciate all the efforts, so flip over the Amends was originally slated for them to,” offers Bennington in the pages to our food column and learn some 10th April 2020 release but due to lyrically profound three-and-a-half mouth-watering recipes. the rapidly shifting situation with minute song. The track, which was COVID-19, the band announced written in 1994 but only recently In this issue’s travel tales, I’d like to take the 11-song album would move to re-recorded for Amends, goes on to you through a great hygiene initiative put 26th June release date. As a thank say, “maybe things will look better, forth in Bali, Indonesia. Kudos to Bagus and you to the fans who have been so maybe things will look brighter.” team from Wyndham Garden Kuta Beach, integral to this release, the band and hopefully more hotels and resorts will gave newsletter subscribers a free Watch the music video follow suit all over the world. here: https://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=4VeLYpyTnJQ TI As always, for those wishing to share their fashion collection, travel tales, or like us to Stay Home: A Special Project to review your restaurant/hotel for a staycation, Encourage Singaporeans to Stay Home drop me an e-mail at waves.lifestyle@gmail. com and be featured. For more news, do 14 Singaporean artists joined forces on a multi-lingual song access www.theiskandarian.com and https:// waves-lifestyle.com/ Universal Music Group #JanganKeluar, a single that was different languages including recently brought together released in response to their English, Mandarin, Malay & Tamil The Iskandarian wishes all the 14 talented Singaporean country’s MCO initiative, Stay Home celebrated in our multi-racial hardworking fathers out there a very Happy artists from different is a re-interpretation of the song for society. The music video showcases Father’s Day and Happy Birthday to DYMM ethnicities and background to Singaporeans. While keeping to the how these artists have been keeping Yang Di-Pertuan Agong Al-Sultan Abdullah create Stay Home, a poignant original song, the Singapore version themselves busy at home and hopes Ri’ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah. track that drives the message of has completely re-structured all to encourage more people to play strength in unity, to show support the melody lines and chorus to their part in making this “Circuit Priya for nationwide efforts to overcome inject its own brand of creativity, Breaker” a success by committing the COVID-19 pandemic. transforming it into a rendition to staying at home. SEND LETTERS unique to Singapore. The artists OR INQUIRIES TO The single features 14 artists wrote, recorded, and filmed the If you have not watched it, click which includes Charlie Lim, Yung single and music video from home, https://um.lnk.to/stayhome for the www.facebook.com/waveslifestyle Raja, Fariz Jabba, ShiGGa Shay, Alif, completing the project within a track that brings together 14 local www.waves-lifestyle.com ABANGSAPAU, Tosh Rock, Iman, short span of 11 days. artists from different ethnicities and [email protected] Aisyah Aziz, Shye, Zadon, YAØ, backgrounds within a short span of Waves Lifestyle Hashy and Dee Kosh. The song also features the four 11 days. TI Stay Home conveys a powerful message that social distancing does not mean emotional distancing. This project highlights how music can be kept alive through digital means and collaborations made possible through technology. With music being a universal language, this project aims to give Singaporeans comfort through the voices of the 14 artists and motivation to stay strong through the song’s lyrics. Inspired and in collaboration with Malaysia’s version of

The Iskandarian | WAVES Lifestyle JUNE 2020 | Page 3 MOVIES UPDATE Six Steps of By Priya Manikam Adaptation D isney’s “Artemis Fowl,” based on the beloved film to move to streaming service. (Part 2) book by Eoin Colfer, is a fantastical, spellbinding Artemis Fowl with the help of his loyal protector Butler, adventure that follows the journey of 12-year-old Have you found your balance and genius Artemis Fowl, a descendant of a long line Artemis sets out to find him, and in doing so uncovers calmness in dealing with the of criminal masterminds, as he seeks to find his father who an ancient, underground civilisation — the amazingly changes and chaos around you? has mysteriously disappeared. advanced world of fairies. Deducing that his father’s Since COVID-19 made its way into disappearance is somehow connected to the secretive, our world, we are constantly dealing with Slated to release on 28th May 2020, the movie will now reclusive fairy world, cunning Artemis concocts a dangerous extreme changes in our lives and I’d like to be released on Disney’s streaming service – Disney Plus on plan — so dangerous that he ultimately finds himself in a discuss the remaining steps of adaptation. 12th June 2020 instead, making it the first major Disney perilous war of wits with the all-powerful fairies. TI Step three – Acceptance THE NEW MUTANTS This is a crucial step that gives us the strength to continue surviving in this world. S adly, Twentieth Century Fox in association with their friendships will be tested as they battle to try and If you’re struggling to adapt, try welcoming Marvel Entertainment’s “The New Mutants,” make it out alive. acceptance into your life. When you can filmed in 2017 will once again be delayed time accept changes, there are higher chances after time since its initial release date in 2018! However, there is one other mutant involved, Alica of you finding your ways to survive the With no new release date set due to COVID-19 pandemic Braga’s Dr. Cecilia Reyes, a medical doctor who mentors changes. and talks of it going digital, here’s a look at what this the teens at this facility. Just like her comic book movie is all about: counterpart, Braga’s Reyes is capable of generating Step four – Communication force fields. Communication plays a vital role in keeping “The New Mutants,” is an original horror thriller us sane. Firstly, is the communication within directed by Josh Boone set in an isolated hospital The movie stars Maisie Williams, Anya Taylor-Joy, ourselves, as this is where we analyse our where a group of young mutants (Magik, Wolfsbane, Charlie Heaton, Alice Braga, Blu Hunt and Henry Zaga. situation mentally, emotionally, physically Cannonball, Sunspot and Mirage) is being held for and spiritually. Secondly, we share our psychiatric monitoring. When strange occurrences At the time of writing, it is still unknown whether this findings with others. Communication during begin to take place, both their new mutant abilities and teenage horror-thriller will finally see its big theatrical social distancing helps us bond and keeps release at a later part of the year or watched at home our social foundation strong and healthy. on Prime Video. TI Step five – Practical solutions Try to see if you can find any silver lining in your situation. What can be improved on an individual and collective level? If you see any potential for growth and improvement, try to lay out practical approaches and solutions for it. We are doing it right now on a global level. It simply shows us that we are capable to act collectively and change the world. Step six – Take the right action Now that we have practical solutions in hand, it’s time to take the right action. Remember, life is about mutation where old form dissolves and new form emerges. We are discovering a new way of life in many ways. Can we implement the right action and change the way we do businesses and education? Even though e-commerce or online education may not sustain for the long run, it is going to grow within a decade or two. Think about what we can achieve if we do it differently? TI Rose Osman is a Certified Human Design Professional. She’s a guide for Living Your Design Workshop and coaches others on self healing for anxiety via E-courses and group workshops yourpersonalmotivator BucketOfRoses www.roselifecoach.com Discover your True Self, Inner Power, Potentials and Purpose with Human Design. Visit Facebook Page : Human Design Malaysia for more info.

The Iskandarian | WAVES Lifestyle JUNE 2020 | Page 4 travel Bali Hotel Help Locals Take Precautions against COVID-19 in Kuta, Bali, Indonesia By Priya Manikam that the locals there stay safe first and take Manager, Bagus Ngurah, has worked tablets to the village of Songan at Mount [email protected] precautions before accepting‘guests’again. with industry colleagues to distribute 52 Batur to improve community health during public washbasins for high-traffic areas this time. The village was chosen due to like walkways and locations near temples low ratio of health care professionals to and mosques. These basins come complete people. with a water tank, soap, and tissues to dry hands. Wyndham Destinations manages the 155-room Wyndham Garden Kuta Beach “As a result of COVID-19, there is along with three other Bali properties: unfortunately a very high demand for Wyndham Dreamland Resort Bali, hygiene products, meaning that they are Wyndham Tamansari Jivva Resort Bali, short in supply in certain areas and not Ramada by Wyndham Bali Sunset Road affordable for many people. I was inspired Kuta, and six other Indonesia properties to build these basins so everyone can clean in Lombok, Jakarta, Surabaya, Palembang their hands and protect themselves,” said and Solo through its local subsidiary, PT Ngurah. Wyndham Hotel Management. As he sets up more basins, the initiative Wyndham Garden Kuta Beach is PTanah Lot temple frequented by locals and touristsHaving that in mind, Wyndham Garden icture Bali, Indonesia and we Kuta Beach Bali has helped locals in Bali immediately think of its beaches, take precautions against the spread of beautiful temples, culture, spa, picturesque sights and its friendly COVID-19 on the tourist island by building people. However, since COVID-19 struck public washbasins for people and donating the world, all our travel plans have to be vitamins to at-risk communities. put on hold, and some of us have started International health authorities say to reminisce through our past photos to social distancing and self-isolation are relive the beautiful moments spent in both key ways to minimise the spread this city. We have now learned to accept of the coronavirus, while frequently that this is the current new norm and our washing or sanitising hands is an excellent hearts goes out to the people there who precautionary measure. are always welcoming. So, it is important Wyndham Garden Kuta Beach General The picturesque Ulun Danu in Bali, Indonesia The famed Kuta Beach gathers more momentum in the form of positioned directly across the famous greater public awareness and donations. Kuta Beach and offers two pools – a family pool for children and a rooftop pool “Through corporate donors, hospitals overlooking the ocean – an all-day dining and our personal friends, we have been restaurant, a bar, a day spa and meeting able to raise approximately 88 million rooms for seminars and events. TI Indonesian Rupiah for more than 50 basins so far, and we have plans for more. Bagus Ngurah, Wyndham It has been pleasing to see the community Garden Kuta Beach GM with the support because the only way we can washbasins defeat COVID-19 is by working together. These basins remind us of the importance of personal hygiene and give us all the opportunity to practice it,” he said. The basins drain into existing infrastructure and locals are encouraged to refill them with soap and water when they run low. The team at Wyndham Garden Kuta Beach has also worked with hoteliers and academics to donate 10,000 vitamin

13 ISSUE 94 | JUNE 2020 THE ISKANDARIAN LIVE Almost a Feather in the Sand: Sea Pens S ea pens were named being preyed on, it can ‘stalk’ which is the base (also found in corals) that Serina Rahman after the feathered also totally retract into the from which other polyps photosynthesises, producing fountain pens of ground. Sometimes sea pens emerge. It’s a fascinating food for the sea pen. But Serina Rahman is the co-founder olden times. They are are pulled out of the water colony of animals. The sea most of the time the sea of Kelab Alami and a Visiting a colonial species meaning by strong currents and can pen is also often home to pen’s polyps trap tiny food Fellow at the ISEAS-Yusof Ishak that many individuals live be found at low tide lying many other species such parts from the water. in a single structure. Sea on its side. as the porcelain crab and Institute, Singapore. She is also a pens bury themselves in the Kelab Alami runs guided winner of the Iskandar Malaysia sand with its foot (the part The top half of the sea tiny transparent shrimp. At habitat walks during the low that looks like a bulb), but pen that looks like a feather times there is a commensal tide, on which you might get Social Hero Awards (IMSHA) emerges for its many polyps is where the polyps are. relationship (where both lucky enough to spot one of to catch food. Polyps can grow here, but species benefit) between these strange creatures. Log they can also die. When them. Some sea pens on to kelabalami.weebly.com If it is worried about they die, they stiffen and also have zooxanthellae for more information TI become part of the central which is a type of algae

14 ISSUE 94 | JUNE 2020 THE ISKANDARIAN WORK Manoeuvring the New Normal Post-MCO T he Conditional MCO reluctant to embark distance will vary from industry continuity of business and it has (CMCO) was announced to industry but for most part it become a forced norm for some by the Prime Minister on the CMCO is to ensure a 1-metre distance companies. We therefore, expect Tan Sri Muhyiddin between the employees. that WFH will be some of the new Yassin on 10th May 2020 and immediately. normal practices that companies was later extended to 9th June Secondly, the premises must will be implementing until we are 2020 has come as a relief to Some of the be sanitised periodically starting out of the woods. many businesses and SMEs. with a major sanitisation before This relaxed movement reluctant states the employees are allowed to Apart from safety reasons, order allows the operation return to the business premises. WFH has also began to appeal as of businesses without were Selangor, All employees must be screened a form of cost cutting measures the need to apply of their temperature before they as companies no longer need Kedah, are allowed into the premises. to fork out expenses such permission to as travelling allowance and operate with the Penang, Finally, the employees must overtime pay as the employees Ministry of International be provided sanitisers and face are now working at their own Trade and Industry (MITI) as Sabah masks at all times. These are the pace in the comfort of their Rachel Tan long as the companies follow non-negotiable SOPs that all homes. the relevant Standard Operation and Sarawak companies must observe upon Consultant Procedures (SOPs) that has been deciding to start operation This would also mean Meca Employers Consulting put in place. because of the fear of un- during the CMCO. that companies must now In the process of flattening consider new policies regarding Agency Sdn Bhd the curve, there are economic retainable spread of the Work From Home employees’ KPI measurements [email protected] considerations which the Federal Apart from the SOP, we and work from home etiquettes Government had seriously COVID-19 virus. However, recommend that companies to ensure there is no breach ready for the new normal. contemplated and the outcome start placing internal SOP of or misuse of the flexi working of extending a full lockdown these states have eased into best practices to ensure the arrangement. Conclusion may cause debilitating effects efficacies of preventive measures In summary, CHANGE is the new on the Malaysian businesses allowing businesses to operate in curbing the virus at the The WFH arrangement has constant we are to be prepared in the long run. As such, there workplace. opened to an array of possibilities for in the new world post MCO. was a lot of confusion upon the but keeping in mind the of manpower optimisation and As long as the war against announcement of the CMCO as One of the ideas which may just be the new normal COVID-19 virus is still at large; some State Governments were municipal rules which have been were widely explored during moving forward. Hence, the companies are advised to remain the MCO is the flexi working current working culture will face vigilant and practice putting regulated by the respective State arrangement or “Work From a shift in paradigm, and Human employees’ safety and welfare Home” (WFH) option. The MCO, Resource Managers must be in the forefront of their business Governments. announced on 16th March 2020 ready to pioneer the change of considerations. TI had propelled half the industries management in getting their Nonetheless, for most part of to work from home to ensure respective companies to be the country, the CMCO has begun to slowly get businesses back into gear. Companies should be well informed and aligned with the main requirements for operation and at the same time ensuring the safety and welfare of the employees. The following are the list of the SOPs which is non-negotiable if companies are planning to reopen: Non-Negotiable SOP The first basic rule is to ensure that “social distancing” is complied with. The prescribed

15 ISSUE 94 | JUNE 2020 THE ISKANDARIAN INVEST Accumulating Wealth Who’s a Bot and Who’s Not? Tips & Tricks Light at the End of the Tunnel A new study reveals behavioural differences It has been more than two between bots and humans that could inform months since the Movement Control Order (MCO/CMCO) bankruptcies sooner or later. I new machine learning algorithms for bot and things only appeared to would not be surprised if another get worse before getting better. correction emerged with bad Tey Bin Yuen Bdetection software compared these results between news flowing out continuously. ots are social media bots and humans. At the time of writing, there accounts which are are over 4.5 million COVID-19 4) From the middle of controlled by artificial The researchers found, March until May 2020, many software rather than by among humans, trends that Malaysian counters’ share prices cases reported and over 300,000 moved in tandem with the Binyuen is the founder of BY humans and serve a variety of were not present among bots: people had lost their lives. At US market. That was mainly a Enrich Resources and the author purposes from news aggregation to Humans showed an increase in the same time, over 36 million rebound supported by the macro automated customer assistance for the amount of social interaction Americans have lost their jobs. sentiment. It will not last long. of‘Life beyond the Comfort online retailers. However, bots have over the course of a session, The irony is, while we are hearing Soon, the price movement would Zone’and‘Profit from Share recently been under the spotlight illustrated by an increase in the bad news every day, the stock differ after companies’ earnings Investment’. His books are as they are regularly employed fraction of retweets, replies and available in major bookstores in market does not seem to be as are unfolded. So what should we Malaysia, Singapore or online as part of large-scale efforts on number of mentions contained http://www.teybinyuen.com/ volatile as before. One major do? profitfromshareinvestment social media to manipulate public in a tweet. As sessions progress, drama happened on 20th April opinion, such as during electoral human users grow tired and are though, where the US oil prices Invest or Trade? campaigns. less likely to undertake complex turned negative for the first time Either one would work. The key 30 per barrel for many years? It A new study in Frontiers in activities, such as composing in history, as traders needed to is we need to know if we want to is unlikely. Physics has revealed the presence original content. Bots were pay people to take their oil due buy to trade or invest. According to International of short-term behavioural trends shown to not be affected by to constrained storage spaces. For trading, you need to Energy Agency (IEA), global in humans that are absent in social such considerations and no In Malaysia, Bank Negara operate based on technical demand for oil is still rising media bots, providing an example behavioural change was observed Malaysia (BNM) cut its overnight indicators and the macro before 2045. This means there of a ‘human signature’ on social from them. policy rate (OPR) by 50 basis sentiment. In addition, have a is obvious demand for oil at media which could be leveraged The researchers used these points (bps) to 2%. With this trading plan where you’d always least for the next two decades. to develop more sophisticated bot behavioural results to inform latest cut, BNM has reduced OPR have a loss cutting point and If so, why did oil fall so much detection strategies. The research a classification system for bot by 100 bps since January 2020. profit target in mind before since March 2020? There are is the first study of its kind to detection and found that the The frequency of OPR reduction executing the trade. two main reasons: geo-political apply user behavior over a social full model including the features signifies the economy is heading For investing, keep things and economic. While demand media session to the problem of describing session dynamics to winter. While we are flooded simple. Only buy businesses that for oil would be low because bot detection. significantly outperformed the with negative news, is everything you understand. Look out for of the economy downturn, the “Remarkably, b o t s baseline model in its accuracy still so bad now? I’d like to share businesses with strong balance sharp fall of oil was triggered by continuously improve to mimic of bot detection, which did not my views. sheet and growth prospect. A the disagreement of production more and more of the behavior describe those features. 1) Even though the US good sign of strong balance cut between Saudi Arabia humans typically exhibit on These results highlight that stock market has gone up 30% sheet is when the company has and Russia. So, the question social media. Every time we user behaviour on social media from the bottom (as long as the paid regular dividends in the last is, will economy recover? Yes, identify a characteristic we think evolves in a measurably different Dow Jones Industrial Average five years. If a company can pay only a matter of time. Will oil is prerogative of human behavior, manner between bots and humans (DJIA) does not stand above regular dividends, it means it has producers like low oil price? Of such as sentiment of topics of over an activity session and also 24000 points), it is still unstable. strong cash flow; implying it can course not. All these means low interest, we soon discover that suggests that these differences Refer to the DJIA chart on 15th survive through the turbulence. oil price is temporary, and the newly-developed open-source can be used to implement a bot May 2020, the candles are below Companies that have good track oil companies which had their bots can now capture those detection system or to improve the MA50 (pink line) and MA200 record of giving dividends are share prices hit hard offer good aspects,” says co-author Emilio existing ones. (orange line), which means they Hevea, Scicom, Magni, LCtitan, bargain, especially companies Ferrara, Assistant Professor of Emilio highlights, “Bots are Computer Science and Research constantly evolving - with fast Team Leader at the University of paced advancements in AI, it’s Southern California Information possible to create ever-increasingly Sciences Institute. realistic bots that can mimic more In this work, the researchers and more how we talk and interact studied how the behavior of in online platforms.” humans and bots changed over “We are continuously trying the course of an activity session to identify dimensions that are using a large Twitter dataset particular to the behaviour of associated with recent political humans on social media that can events. Over the course of in turn be used to develop more these sessions, the researchers sophisticated toolkits to detect measured various factors to bots.” capture user behavior, including *Further reading may be found the propensity to engage in social via https://www.frontiersin.org/ The companies or strategies mentioned in this article are meant for study purpose only. It interactions and the amount articles/10.3389/fphy.2020.00125/ doesn’t constitute any ‘buy’ or ‘sell’ recommendation. Please consult your financial professional of produced content, and then full TI if you want to make any decision. (Source: www.investing.com) have strong resistances to break. Perstim, to name a few. with billions of contracts on 2) From business point Of course, most companies hand, such as Serbak, Yinson and Armada. of view, the re-opening is not do not pay good dividends. straightforward. Recently, there Therefore, the potential Conclusion were COVID-19 cases resurging company must have growth With every crisis comes an after the reopening, such as in prospect with the right price. For opportunity. As an investor, Korea and Germany. example, the recent oil plunge let us be cautious as well as has seen many oil counters’ be open-minded, for there is 3) We have heard huge prices plummeting to a multi- always light at the end of the unemployment numbers year low. So the question is, will tunnel. TI reported lately in the US. I oil price hover between USD20- believe we would hear more

16 ISSUE 94 | JUNE 2020 THE ISKANDARIAN PLAY Sudoku Malaysian Team Yoodo Gank Crowned As PMPL Sea Finals Scan QR Code S1 Champion for the solution OBEY THE NEW T eam Yoodo Gank from Malaysia the PUBG MOBILE World League. Team DOODLE NORMAL SOPS has been crowned as the Secret secured a spot in the World League champion team in the PUBG after being announced champions of the #SOCIALDISTANCING MOBILE Pro League Southeast PMPL MY/SG S1 last month. #STAYSAFE Asia (PMPL SEA) Finals S1 which took place from 1st – 3rd May 2020. The The PMPL SEA Finals S1 was streamed every month The Iskandarian winning team took home the top prize live on each country’s official PUBG shares what you should of USD30,000 out of the USD150,000 MOBILE Facebook page. In Malaysia, prize pool. matches were streamed via the PUBGM and should not be doing in MY official Facebook page. your communities ! Team Yoodo Gank was one of the three Malaysian teams to battle against PUBG MOBILE is based on Happy 13 other teams from across the region, PLAYERUNKNOWN’s BATTLEGROUNDS Father’s Day in this competition. Additionally, Yoodo (PUBG), a genuine royal battle Gank also won USD3,000 and USD5,000 phenomenon that brings excitement in for the Most Popular Team and Gunkiller the world of interactive entertainment Player categories respectively. in 2017. Up to 100 players plunge in parachutes to remote islands to battle Team Bigetron Red Aliens from in the winner-takes-all fight. Players Indonesia won second place and took also have to find and search for their home USD20,000, while team King of weapons, vehicles, and supplies, and Gamers Club from Thailand bagged the defeat every player on the battlefield. third-place prize of USD15,000. Not only that, players will be spoiled with rich and tactical visuals, and then The winning teams will join three players will be forced to enter the game other teams, including Team Secret, also zone which is getting narrower. - by The from Malaysia, that will now advance to Iskandarian TI

17 The Iskandarian ISSUE 94 | JUNE 2020 Johor Property Market: PROPERTY INSIGHT NAPIC released its @home Property Market Report 2019 which showcases the industry’s18 performance pg 21 PROPERTY RESIDENTIAL PROJECTS APARTMENTS VILLAS CONDOMINIUMS OFFICE/RETAILSPACE Country Garden Real Estate (CGRE) issues Islamic Sukuk totalling RM495 million pg 22 UDA Holdings Bhd iProperty.com.my Read this article on reveals housing recharges Malaysia our website financing plans property market Connect with us on Facebook

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Smart Cities & Circular Economy Million to be made available with their tech endeavours, giving them an edge as choice prospects of our MDEC of President’s Office, Sunway Group said, (i.e. construction solutions, e-hailing, Ito winning startups grant if all requirements are met,” said “We are confident this unique public- environment solutions, IoT, mobility n an effort to help the Malaysian Surina Shukri, CEO of MDEC. private partnership between Gobi, MDEC, solutions, and public transport solutions); economy and local startups through MAVCAP and Sunway will contribute this unprecedented COVID-19 pandemic, Gobi’s Managing Director for Malaysia, positively to Malaysia’s startup scene, 4. TaqwaTech (i.e. companies Pan-Asian venture capital firm Gobi Jamaludin Bujang, added, “The Malaysian especially during these trying times. In providing products and services to Muslim Partners and Malaysia Digital Economy startup ecosystem is teeming with talent. addition, the Sunway iLabs Accelerator consumers and communities). Corporation (MDEC) have jointly announced Startups want to solve the country’s programme provides startups with a pitching competition for Malaysian problems in new and innovative ways, access to Sunway’s resources across 13 The SuperSeed II Championship startups. and this will be one way for them to realise business divisions as well as the township will see startups being added to Gobi’s their aspirations. We, as a venture capital of Sunway City Kuala Lumpur, which is portfolio for Malaysia SuperSeed Fund II, Winning companies will get the firm, also believe that we need to keep a living lab that continuously fosters a a fund that was launched together with opportunity to secure equity investment investing as the world goes through these thriving innovation ecosystem. This means Malaysia’s largest venture capital company from the firm under their Malaysia kinds of cycles; in order for the ecosystem that startups will have a wide market as MAVCAP, and local conglomerate Sunway SuperSeed Fund II vehicle, a fund jointly to survive, the show must go on.” a potential test bed, access to Sunway Group. The Fund is focused on financing announced last year by Gobi, MAVCAP and University’s labs, researchers, and potential early-stage startups in Malaysia. There will Sunway, as well as be a potential MDEC Aside from capital, the winners will interns”. be 20 - 25 startups in the Fund’s portfolio, grant recipient. Additional prizes include also be automatically eligible to attend and the median ticket size will be between the chance to attend an entrepreneurship a suitable entrepreneurship programme The criteria for the SuperSeed II RM 1.5 – 2 million. programme organised by Alibaba organised by Alibaba Business School, Championship are as follows: 1) the Business School and the iLabs Accelerator while finalists will be placed in a priority company is incorporated in Malaysia or; MAVCAP’s Acting CEO Shahril Anas Programme by the Sunway Group. channel to be selected for the programme. 2) the founder is Malaysian or there is a Hasan Aziz, said, “Supportive of the The event will be held in Hangzhou, China Malaysian shareholder or; 3) the company government’s initiatives to support tech “The SuperSeed II Championship in 2021 and provide startups with first- has substantial operations in Malaysia startups through this pandemic, with this resonates with MDEC’s #DIGITALvs hand exposure to E-commerce and digital or; 4) the company has concrete plans to fund, MAVCAP, together with Gobi, MDEC COVID movement, which aims to innovations, access to business leaders expand their business into Malaysia. and Sunway, will be providing a viable and harness digital technologies to help our across Alibaba and China, as well as an complementary alternative to startups people, entrepreneurs and businesses opportunity to connect with like-minded, Startups in the following (but not that need the help.” surmount economic challenges caused leading entrepreneurs in the region. limited to) key verticals will be by the pandemic. As we navigate life considered for the competition: To enter the competition and for more and work in the new norm, there will be As an added bonus, Sunway will be detailed information, interested startups an extraordinary demand for novel tech offering the top three finalists for the 1. Retail & Enterprise (i.e. AI, B2B, can visit here. The deadline for entries solutions – a gap that can be capably competition a wild card to enter their B2C, Big Data, e-commerce, and logistics); is 12 AM (Midnight), 16th June 2020. fulfilled by prolific and innovative startups. iLabs Accelerator programme, which is The preliminary round is scheduled to in collaboration with Gobi Partners. The 2. FinTech (i.e. crowdfunding, take place at the end of June, while the InsureTech, mobile payments, P2P lending, qualifying rounds and final round is set to be held in July and August. TI

20 ISSUE 94 | JUNE 2020 THE ISKANDARIAN PROPERTY Living Large With Sunway Iskandar - From Home to Communities Best Luxury Series Award-winning Sunway Designed to be part of Imagination in a Safe, were previously held are that encompasses 553 a self-sustaining integrated Healthy, Connected, and the World Environment units of Duo Living Landed SIskandar Emerald Residence city, each of the precinct’s Sustainable Community. Day, Viper Challenge, Homes and is expected to convenient amenities Sunway Iskandar Half be completed by 2024. SJK are facilitated within the The development Night Marathon, Breast (C) Cheah Fah, a Chinese city itself to cater to the focused primarily on Cancer Workshop, Nutrition school, will be opening its needs and demands of its the United Nations’ Workshops, HOPE –Charity, registration in Q1 of 2022 residents. Sustainable Development Merdeka Fun Run, Unicorn and Sunway Big Box Hotel Goals number 3, Good Run, Malay Weddings, Little is scheduled to open in Q2 In creating such Health and Well-Being with Entrepreneurs – special of 2021. a vibrant township, each of the precincts in unway Iskandar the StarProperty All-Stars the proven formula Sunway Iskandar equipped is an award- Award for Best Overall of the award-winning with a park complete with winning integrated Champion and Exceptional township includes the cycling and jogging track, five complementary serving as a connection t o w n s h i p f o r Community Builder, The components - Connectivity, for residents in the whole Amenities, Communities, area. As an addition, the sustainable environment Southern Star Award Security and Environment 20-acre Sunway Emerald and Sustainability. Lake and Events’ Gallery under Sunway Property, (Excellence) for Sunway both serve the community As a Master community and the developer as a the Master Community Iskandar along with Best developer, Sunway Iskandar platform to set up any built more than residential community events and Developer. With the Integrated Development and commercial areas by activities, keeping the providing a space to Live venues vibrant. capability and capacity to for Sunway Citrine and Every Dream, Learn without Limits, and Play beyond Some activities that build, own and operate the Best Luxury Series Award Sunway BIG BOX the first large format retail park in Malaysia and Singapore communities it built, it’s for Sunway Emerald no secret that they are the Residence. recipient of 9 recognitions The honours for needs kids and Sunway As an award-winning Iskandar End Polio Ride. integrated township, at the Star Property Sunway Iskandar has Many more events will Sunway Iskandar has continue to take place displayed its success with Awards 2020 namely proven that a meticulously within the Lake and Events the implementation of gallery. the build-own-operate The Proximity Award, planned unique business business model. Sunway Developed as a Iskandar always focuses on Best Integrated Transit model based on a fully service-driven township, engaging their community Sunway Iskandar’s next and promises to ensure Oriented Development integrated real estate value and upcoming projects community growth and that will be completing assures the stakeholders (Excellence) for Sunway chain, has managed to soon are Sunway Maple, that Sunway Iskandar has SJK (C) Cheah Fah, and a lifelong commitment Velocity TWO, The Long create a livable community Sunway Big Box Hotel. to growing together with Sunway Maple Residence them. TI Life Award (Honours) in Sunway Iskandar, a 1800- is a leasehold townhouse for Sunway GEOLake acre land that aims to be Residences, The Holiday Malaysia’s first Nature’s Home Award (Excellence) Capital City within its six and The Northern Star precincts – The Capital, The Award (Honors) for Sunway Parkview, The Lakeview, Onsen Suites. Sunway The Riverside, The Seafront, Lush greenery view from Sunway Citrine building Property also received and The Marketplace.

21 ISSUE 94 | JUNE 2020 THE ISKANDARIAN PROPERTY Pandemic the delivery of vacant possession until the COVID-19 Lock date the purchaser actually takes vacant Down and the possession of the said property/parcel. Since Delivery of Vacant time is of the essence for the developer to Possession perform its obligations such as deliver Kalaivani Govindasamy – Part One vacant possession within stipulated time All housing development projects in under the Act, otherwise the developer may Associate Malaysia have been stopped since developer. Therefore, parties are bound by be exposed to late liquidated damages due Law chamber of Vin Sa & Ian 18th March 2020 when the Prime the terms and conditions mentioned in the to the lock down. Minister announced the Restricted Schedule G and Schedule H of the Act. Graduated with LLB (Hons) from National Movement Order (MCO). Inevitably, all On the other hand, if the developer has University of Malaysia, Kalaivani advises construction activities must comply with the By virtue of Clause 9 of Schedule G and completed the property but was unable and represents property developers. She MCO and suspend all activities on site until clause 8 of Schedule H of the Act, it clearly to deliver the keys to the purchaser due also advises joint management bodies and the MCO is lifted for this economic sector. states that the time of the contract shall be of to MCO and the developer’s notice to the management corporations on all matters This has inevitably resulted in developers an essence in relation to all provisions of the purchaser could not been served to the relating to the Strata Management Act and possibly facing issues of late delivery of agreement. Further, Clause 26 of Schedule purchaser. According to Schedule G and H vacant possession to the purchasers due to H and Clause 24 of Schedule G provide that of the Act; any notice or letter shall be served Strata Titles Act. incomplete projects within stipulated period. vacant possession of the property shall be by registered post or by hand. Nevertheless, delivered to the purchaser as follows: - based on these clauses in Schedule G and H It is however emphasised that developers Time essence of a contract under the Sale of the Act, the developers may be unable to are unadvisable to apply for an extension and Purchase Agreement (i) under Schedule H of the Act, the serve the notice to the purchaser during the of time under Regulation 11(3) of the In Malaysia, the housing development vacant possession shall be delivered within MCO. Obviously, this scenario is unfavourable Regulations. Under this, a developer is projects are governed by the Housing 36 calendar months; and to the developers as Schedule G and H of given an option to apply to the Housing Development (Control and Licensing) Act the Act do not have any exemption clause or Controller for an extension of time for the 1966 (the Act) and the Housing Development (ii) under Schedule G of the Act, the Force Majeure clause to protect the interest delivery of vacant possession of a housing (Control and Licensing) Regulations 1989 vacant possession shall be delivered within of the developers in cases where there are development. Regulation 11(3) permits the (the Regulations). The Act, being a social 24 calendar months. any unforeseeable circumstances i.e. the Housing Controller to “waive or modify” legislation designed to protect house MCO prevented developers from fulfilling the terms of the SPA where compliance buyers, the interests of the purchasers shall In the event, the developer fails to deliver their obligation under agreement. More so, with the SPA becomes “impracticable or be the paramount consideration against the vacant possession within the stipulated the Federal Court has decided in the case of unnecessary”due to“special circumstances period in the SPA, the developer shall be S.E.A. Housing Corp Sdn Bhd v. Lee Poh Choo or hardship or necessity”. Undeniably, liable to pay to the purchaser liquidated [1982] CLJ Rep 305 that a Force Majeure COVID-19 pandemic may fall within damages calculated from day to day at the defence does not apply in the context of a the circumstances provided in the said rate of ten per centum (10%) per annum of SPA. Regulation 11(3) of the Regulations which the purchase price from the due date for is special circumstances or hardship or In that sense, questions arise on, what necessity compliance with any of the are the alternatives available to a developer provisions in the SPA is impracticable or to mitigate losses due to MCO as there is no unnecessary. exemption clause to protect the developer in Schedule G and Schedule H. Therefore, Despite the above, there is a diferring reference should be made to the legislation view which I will discuss in the next issue. TI to find out whether any potection is available to the developer. Application for an extension of time for the delivery of vacant possession due to MCO UDA in Talks with Banks Johor Property Market: for Housing Financing’s New Payment System Observations from 2019 & What Can We Expect in 2020 NAPIC recently released UDA Holdings Bhd, which are looking to launch by providing assistance like its Property Market active in 2019 one of the country’s within the year. discounts and rent exemptions Report 2019 which 4. Commercial property leading property under UDA’s shopping showcases the industry’s development and “We will be reviewing complexes like Angsana Johor performance at a national and market – Increased in transactions, asset management companies, whether we will launch all Bahru Mall, Angsana Ipoh Mall state level. Samuel Tan, Executive but dropped in value were reportedly discussing a five projects or just some and Angsana Seremban. Director of KGV International payment system for housing of them and will announce Property Consultants highlights 5. Shopping complex sub- financing with several it in the second half of this “We’ve offered one-month important observations in the sector strengthened as occupancy commercial banks. year,” he said. At least five rent exemption for April 2020 Johor property market and what improved slightly residential projects that are and 20% discount for the we can look forward to in 2020. UDA Holdings Bhd’s Chief eyeing to capture the younger months of May until September 6. Purpose-built offices Executive Officer, Mohd Salem demographics are set to launch 2020,” said Mohd Salem, adding Here are the 7 Observations portrayed a downward Kailany said that one bank has this year. UDA is also planning that it costs an estimate of from 2019 in a nutshell: performance agreed to cooperate with UDA to develop 1,000 residential RM10 million and has benefited Holdings Bhd to implement units nationwide specifically around 1,500 traders. 7. Industrial property held the system with no further in Johor Bahru, Kuala Lumpur, on, new planned supply increased elaboration stated. Bernama Kuantan, Kuala Terengganu and Apart from that, UDA has 6 fold in 2019 reported that Mohd Salem said Penang. also donated RM200,000 worth the launch date of the system of goods, equipment and 1. Johor’s property market For a complete breakdown of will be announced later. When the country is finances to support some of performance increased at a slow under the implementation the major hospitals nationwide pace, with residential at the the observations and what we can On the latest news from of Movement Control Order such as the Johor Bahru Permai forefront UDA Holdings, Mohd Salem (MCO), UDA Holdings took Hospital, Sungai Buloh Hospital, look forward to till the rest of 2020, commented that the developer some proactive steps to help Kuala Lumpur Hospital, Penang 2. Johor contr ibuted log on to www.theiskandarian.com is currently reviewing five new reduce small and medium- Hospital and Rembau Hospital. the second-highest residential – property news section. - by The affordable housing projects sized enterprises (SMEs) burden - by Norfy Shafeq TI transactions Iskandarian TI to Malaysia’s overall in 2019 3. Serviced apartments & SOHO sub-sector remained

22 ISSUE 94 | JUNE 2020 THE ISKANDARIAN PROPERTY AKPK’s Scam Alert: Third Party Agent – Don’t Be Duped – Part One Credit Counselling and Debt Management Agency (AKPK) Over the years AKPK has received The agent will then tell the customer that Gunasegaran wishes to inform the public that numerous reports and feedback from payment in advance is required first before Munusamy AKPK has never appointed any customers of being approached by certain processing can start. Some may ask for as third party agents or charged a fee for its individuals claiming to be representatives much as 10% – 20% of the total loan value. Head, AKPK JB Branch services. All individuals can come directly or agents of AKPK offering to help them to AKPK for its financial counselling and restructure their debts through AKPK’s After the payment is made, the agent Package was launched and financial debt management services for free of Debt Management Programme (DMP). will then assist the customer to submit assistance given to those in need during charge. Should anyone be approached by Some of the customers were wise enough a DMP online application to AKPK and the Movement Control Order (MCO), it has individuals claiming to be an agent of AKPK to check with AKPK first and avoided being book an appointment for counselling. It been observed that there was an increase and are offering his or her service for a fee, scammed by these agents but many others is usually at the counselling stage that in cases of financial scams or frauds we would like to alert the general public were not so lucky and have incurred losses. the customer realises he or she has been reported to the authorities. Scammers that it is a fake agent who has no authority There are also third parties soliciting money duped after finding out that AKPK’s services are taking advantage of the COVID-19 to act on behalf of AKPK. from individuals in debt as payment to are free and AKPK does not appoint any pandemic and related government aid restructure or reschedule their debts by third party agents. By then it is too late as to dupe people into parting with their AKPK was established by Bank Negara referring them to AKPK. they have already parted with their money money. TI Malaysia as a wholly-owned subsidiary and in some cases the agent has already in April 2006 to provide 3 services which In terms of their modus operandi, disappeared. They have paid money for a are Financial Education, Financial/Credit usually these agents would make a phone service which they can actually get for free. Counselling and Debt Management call or send SMS to the customer to offer It’s a double financial blow to someone who Programme (DMP). Financial counselling their services. Individuals who are in some is already in a stressful financial situation. and Debt Management Programme are kind of financial mess and in dire need of services provided for free to individuals by assistance would be more vulnerable and Besides third party agents, there are AKPK, without the use of any third party are more likely to be convinced that the other types of financial scams which agent. agents can help them. Scammers always victims have fallen prey too especially prey on people’s feelings and emotions. during the COVID-19 pandemic. In fact, after the Prihatin Rakyat Economic Stimulus the League Awards 2016 by RAM. completed in 2017, with the Beletime Malaysia has been a strategic shopping mall – the Group’s very first Long-Term Outlook shopping mall operating overseas; Positive: Country Garden investment market for the Group, which opened to public in 2019. Central Park Raises RM495 Mil Sukuk currently has 5 projects launched – 2 is another high-rise project in Johor projects in the Klang Valley and 3 projects targeting local buyers. Phase 1 was in Johor. completed in 2019 and is currently in the process of VP. Diamond City, located in Semenyih in the state of Selangor, is a development Forest City, which is located adjacent near Nottingham University, Malaysia. to Singapore and situated in the Iskandar Diamond City is Malaysia’s first Spanish- Special Zone of Johor, is currently style landed housing, and includes the Group’s largest overseas project. Bungalows, Linked Houses, Semi-Ds Forest City is a long-term sustainable and Terrace Houses. At this juncture, six development project, and to date, the phases have been completed with the basic infrastructure of the city has been remaining three phases currently under developed in scales. planning and construction. Country Garden Malaysia has strong Another project, named Lake City, cashflow with a healthy balance sheet was recently launched in 2019. Lake City which was quite encouraging. In 2019, is jointly developed with a renowned local the Group (including joint ventures and developer. Sales have been encouraging associates) achieved contracted sales despite the recent property market attributable to shareholders of CNY552.2 downcycle. billion, which represents a year-on-year increase of 10.03%. - by The Iskandarian TI Located in the city of Johor Bahru, Country Garden Danga Bay was The longest tenure for the Medium-Term Note (IMTN)Programme. Malaysia is one of the biggest Islamic sukuk issued is for 7 years financing markets in the world today. The In March 2020, Country Garden Real Malaysian government has been actively Estate (CGRE) successfully issued 3 promoting development of Islamic tranches of Islamic Sukuk totalling financing and strives to become global RM495 million with the longest tenure centre for Islamic financing. A sukuk is an being 7 years, despite the downcycle Islamic financial certificate (similar to a of global market and recent chaos in bond), that complies with Islamic religious financial market due to the COVID-19 law commonly known as Syariah. Sukuks outbreak. These issuances fully reflect have become extremely popular since the confidence that Malaysian capital 2000, when the first sukuk was issued by markets have in both Country Garden Malaysia. Group (the Group) and CGRE’s long term development in Malaysia. In addition, CGRE’s IMTN Programme was set RAM Ratings had in Sep 2019 reaffirmed up in 2015, which was first ever Ringgit the AA3/Stable rating of CGRE’s Islamic Sukuk issued by a China-related corporate entity. It was bestowed the Triple A Islamic Finance Awards 2016 by The Asset and

23 ISSUE 94 | JUNE 2020 THE ISKANDARIAN PROPERTY Bringing Hope to the Frontliners KPRJ – HOPE focuses handed over to the Ministry of distancing and frequent hand Health (MOH) staff by the Chief washing. efforts to provide aid to Executive Officer of KPRJ, Dato’ Hj Mohd Noorazam Bin Dato’ Hj “We also hope that the the frontliners battling Osman. corporate sector, the GLCs and all parties will lend help, to ensure Covid-19 MOH is constantly reminding that we successfully rid COVID-19 the public to stay at home to pandemic that has plagued our As we’re still under help break the chain of COVID-19 country,” added Noorazam. - by nationwide Conditional transmission, practice social Edey Suresh TI MCO until 9th June 2020 (at the time of writing), CEO of KPRJ Dato’ Hj Mohd Noorazam Bin Dato’ Hj Osman the citizens are not allowed to handing over the boxes of food to the MOH personnel leave their homes except to stock up on groceries and during frontliners since April when the period as an appreciation to the 120 boxes of mineral water donated to the Royal Malaysian emergencies. MCO was in its earlier phases. MOH staff for their sacrifices. Armed Forces (ATM) and Royal Malaysian Police (PDRM) As the community struggles Using their CSR arm – KPRJ “As a Johor State GLC that is with the profound implications HOPE, they donated 120 boxes concerned and cares for public of COVID-19 pandemic, frontliners of mineral water to the Royal safety and health, KPRJ, through have put themselves in the Malaysian Armed Forces (ATM) our CSR initiative – KPRJ-HOPE, literal line of fire as they sacrifice and Royal Malaysian Police have extended our assistance themselves to helping patients (PDRM) personnel. to the frontline staff of the who have contracted the highly Ministry of Health (MOH) who are infectious disease. KPRJ are also committed to working hard to curb the spread donating 100 food boxes every of the COVID-19 outbreak,” said Realising the need to act, day to the frontliners at the Noorazam. Kumpulan Prasarana Rakyat Johor Screening Centre of Hospital (KPRJ), a wholly owned company Permai throughout the MCO The contribution was by the State Government of Johor, stepped up their corporate social responsibility (CSR) efforts to provide support and aid to the WCT Malls offers ‘Purchase & Pick- Time to Share and Care P elabuhanTanjung Pelepas Up’ service at Paradigm Mall (PTP), a member of MMC Group, together with Johor Bahru and PJ Lembaga Pelabuhan S hoppers of Paradigm Johor (LPJ) continues to make Mall Petaling Jaya (PMPJ) and Paradigm impactful change and bring joy Mall Johor Bahru (PMJB) to the Gelang Patah community by organising the annual Tijarah Ramadan Programme from 11th can now shop in comfort and to 14th May 2020. convenience as WCT Malls The CSR event was organised introduces the ‘Purchase & give assistance to those who Pick-Up’ service that allows come from unprivileged customers to purchase essential and disadvantaged families, and non-essential items online especially those who are severely and then later pick them up affected by the COVID-19 MMC - PTP - LPJ CSR pandemic during the fasting Programme Hari Raya Aid from designated spots within month. Distribution to the needy the Malls. This year, a group of 170 WCT Malls ‘Purchase & Pick- Up’ service aims to enhance identified families from 5 villages important that the community customer experience through namely; Kampung Pok, Kampung surrounding it is not forgotten,” integrated online-to-offline exploring new ways to provide payment terms and date/time Ladang, Kampung Tanjung he added. of collection. shopping as well as provide enhanced and seamless Adang, Kampung Pekajang and PTP Chief Executive Officer, Step 3- Collect your shoppers with an easy and shopping experiences for our purchase: Shoppers will Kampung Tiram Duku in Mukim Marco Neelsen remarked that have to drive-through the convenient alternative to collect shoppers and for our retailer designated pick-up points at Tanjung Kupang Gelang Patah this year, the Tijarah Ramadan the scheduled date and time to their purchases, while practicing partners to increase their collect their items from the store area received the special aid in Programme brings us closer to representative. A ten-minute social distancing and avoiding consumer touchpoints.” grace period will be provided to the form of cash donations and the local community since it shoppers to pick-up the items, queues in view of the current post that the customer will have essential goods. coincides with the COVID-19 to collect their purchase directly conditional movement control How the Purchase & Pick-Up from the respective shops LPJ General Manager, crisis. within the malls. order (CMCO). Service Works? Muhammad Razif Bin Ahmad “With the threat of COVID 19 The pickup services are Selena Chua, Chief Step 1- Browse the page: available seven days a week remarked that the collaboration still looming, our 25 CSR volunteers from 12:00 PM-5:00 PM and Executive Officer of WCT Customers can browse through the designated pick-up point between the government PTP and LPJ worked closely with for Paradigm Mall Johor Bahru Malls Management said, “We the PMPJ’s and PMJB’s Facebook is the Level G entrance near authority and local conglomerate the village representatives in Uniqlo. TI are delighted to launch the pages to check the names of the like MMC Corporation Berhad distributing the aid to recipients ‘Purchase & Pick-Up’ service at participating stores. and port operator like PTP is without jeopardizing their WCT Malls. Through introducing Step 2- Place your order: commended as it demonstrated safety. It was important for all of this service, we can facilitate Shoppers can click on the links, the best synergy between private us involved to swiftly respond, social distancing while able which will direct them to the business entity and government commit and contribute to this to meet our shoppers’ needs. selected retailer/brand website authority in improving the crisis. We pulled all stops to ensure The rise of online-to-offline or Facebook page. Customers standard of living amongst the the aid was procured quickly and retailing is rapidly changing the can communicate directly with community. transported in a timely and safe current retail landscape, and at the selected retailer/brand “As the port grows and manner,” added him. - by The WCT Malls, we are constantly on the items to purchase, continues to be successful, it is Iskandarian TI

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