KDN : PP19356/08/2018(034949) | Singapore MICA : MCI (P) 079/12/2019 Iskandar the Malaysia’s Official Newspaper ISSUE 103 | MAR 2021 | is an effort by True Soul Media PLT & Iskandar Regional Development Authority (IRDA) Encouraging and Sunway Accumulating Monthly Drill Developing the Property’s Wealth Next Leading revamped with Datuk Ir. Khairil city Spring Cleaning your Anwar Ahmad, Johor Youth Portfolio CEO of Iskandar Page 17 Page 3 Page 13 Investment Berhad Page 5 How Can Johor Stay Sustainable and Economically Secure? farmer in Iskandar Malaysia. Iskandar Learning Festival (ILF) This year-long informative and educational festival through numerous online sharing sessions is aimed at improving people’s awareness and skills. E-commerce, smart cities, jobs, tourism, human resources, leadership, capacity building, and unique sectors are among the topics addressed. For more information on the Iskandar Malaysia 15-Year Commemorative Campaign or IM15CC, please visit www. iskandarmalaysia.com.my/IM15CC. - by Norfy Shafeq TI Datuk Haji Ir. Hasni Mohammad, Menteri Besar Johor and Datuk Ismail Ibrahim, Chief Executive of Iskandar Back to School Regional Development Authority (IRDA) during the launch of Iskandar Malaysia 15-Year Commemorative A ll school students beginning with pre- schoolers, Standard 1 and 2 will return to ICampaign (IM15CC) and SECURE@IskandarMalaysia via an online conference school on the 1st of March 2021 to familiarise skandar Malaysia had launched its 15-year campaign SECURE@IskandarMalaysia (Sustainable Socio-Economic them with the Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs). During a press conference, Senior Minister for ‘Iskandar Malaysia 15-Year Commemorative Campaign’ Recovery) Initiative in Iskandar Malaysia. Education Dr Mohd Radzi Md Jidin said the rest of the primary students will return to schools a week later on (IM15CC) and the ‘SECURE@IskandarMalaysia’ initiative It is a set of programmes to help the socio-economic 8th March including international schools. to help the rakyat and small businesses preserve their recovery of Iskandar Malaysia’s population and small and As for secondary school students, they will commence their in-person lessons later on either 4th or economic recovery. medium-sized enterprises across three areas: capacity 5th April depending on the states. For instance, Johor, Kedah, Kelantan and Terengganu will start on the 4th of “15 years ago, Iskandar Malaysia was earmarked as the building, reskilling and upskilling, and funds and grants. April 2021. The delay is due to logistic reasons as a result of the ongoing Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia (SPM) exams economic corridor for the southern region and as the first, Applicants may search for the right programme under that will end by 25th March held at the school halls and classrooms with SOPs in place. out of five, to be created in Malaysia mainly due to the this initiative to help them recover and retain their livelihoods According to Mohd Radzi, the arrangement applies location and the abundance of resources that the state of from reskilling and upskilling technical skills, developing soft to all government and private schools registered with the Ministry. Johor can offer.” skills to having the requisite grants and funds to support The COVID-19 pandemic that struck the nation in 2020 “Today, I believe Iskandar Malaysia has proven itself to their companies. has disrupted the education system to date, and in most cases, online learning opportunities were not available be capable of reaching its vision of becoming a strong and IM Makmur programme making learning a challenge. - by Priya Manikam TI sustainable metropolis of international standing, with the Dr Mohd Radzi Md Jidin, Education Minister teamwork and support from all the players,”said Datuk Haji Ir. This programme focuses on minority communities, (Image courtesy of Dr Mohd Radzi Fb page) Hasni Mohammad, Menteri Besar Johor at the online launch. such as single mothers, orphans, fishermen, people with According to Datuk Ismail Ibrahim, Chief Executive of disabilities, elderly people and indigenous people, to help Iskandar Regional Development Authority (IRDA), “The them address income barriers. This includes support for their campaign is not a celebration, but an inspiration based on children’s employment-based and entrepreneurial skills and the past 15 years of development and achievements of the tuitions. region”. Iskandar Malaysia Employment Grant With some of the biggest foreign investors coming from China, USA, Japan, the Netherlands, the Republic A way of helping local companies retain existing workers of Korea, Spain, India, Australia, the United Kingdom, and hiring new ones for up to 6 months by salary grant Germany, Sweden, France and ASEAN countries, Iskandar matching. Malaysia recorded a total cumulative investment of RM337.3 Iskandar Malaysia Urban Farming billion. Since 2006, these investments have led partly to the development of more than 800,000 jobs and 95,000 SMEs Urban farming is becoming increasingly common and in the country. the Iskandar Malaysia Urban Farming programme can be Iskandar Malaysia has taken measures to ensure that not looked forward to by interested parties. Either through the only small businesses and individuals survive through the outdoor integrated farming concept, the indoor farming pandemic but even afterwards. Their recovery and survival system or the hi-tech modular vertical farming with IoT can be maintained for a longer time. solutions, there are several options for becoming a modern www.facebook.com/theiskandarian @theISKANDARIAN www.linkedin.com/company/theiskandarian/ www.theiskandarian.com
02 ISSUE 103 | MAR 2021 THE ISKANDARIAN NEWS TOP Campaign Empowers 420 Orang Asli Students SEND LETTERs T he start of the 2021 school or inquiries year is like no other with two reusable face masks per child in rebuilding from landslides, bags, stationery sets, pencil cases, to Malaysia in a State of for COVID-19 protection, and TOP floods and other tragedies, and colour pencils, exercise books, Emergency to fight the powder detergent to hygienically the isolated SK Terisu, in Cameron water bottles, food containers, two facebook.com/theiskandarian launder their uniforms in the 2021 Highlands, Pahang. Orang Asli pieces of reusable face masks and a [email protected] students from SK Kenering, SK 750gm pack of TOP Super Hygienic www.theiskandarian.com COVID-19 pandemic. Our nation is school year. The funds collected Pahit and SK Batu 4 in Perak were Powder Detergent for each child, also recipients. as well as art supplies and ukuleles Our Friends striking a delicate balance between exceeded expectation equipping for the school. Despite restrictions on Gleneagles protecting the well-being of the an additional 60 students from the interstate travel and flooding in The contribution serves to some areas, the JAKOA’s team protect the children from the MEDINI population whilst ensuring that the initial target of 360 students. arranged and delivered 150 cartons COVID-19 virus, motivate them to of back-to-school essentials of new attend school and ease some of “In The Arms Of One Who Cares” next generation receives the best Southern Lion Sdn Bhd, uniforms, shoes, socks, school their parents’ financial burdens. TI education possible despite the Marketing Manager (Fabric Care economic impact the pandemic Division) Ling Ai Li thanked TESCO, has had on communities such as JAKOA and the brand’s customers the Orang Asli. for supporting a brighter future for The Orang Asli population Orang Asli children even in these have been among the hardest difficult times. hit economically, and the recent Tesco Stores (Malaysia) Sdn floods in Johor, Pahang and Perak Bhd, Head of Communications and have further disrupted incomes Corporate Social Responsibility, while the fear of their children Hanim Hamdan said that the possibly contracting COVID-19 leading retailer fully supported weighs on them. Despite these the campaigns goals and choose setbacks, Orang Asli families are to add value by contributing water eager for their children to continue bottles and food containers to help schooling for a better future. Orang Asli students comply with TOP, the Putra Brand Award COVID-19 standard operating 2019 Platinum winner for the procedures (SOP) of physical household product category, distancing. ‘Brighter Future with TOP’ charity The Orang Asli primary schools fund-raising campaign, supported receiving back-to-school essentials A Brighter Future with TOP - Southern Lion Sdn Bhd, Senior Brand Manager (Fabric Care Division) William Bee (left) and by TESCO and JAKOA arrived right include SK Kampung Kudong a Marketing Manager (Fabric Care Division) Ling Ai Li (right) are among the TOP team packing back-to-school essentials for 420 on time to empower 420 Orang high-achieving Orang Asli school Orang Asli students Asli students from six schools in in a forest reserve in Bekok Johor, Pahang, Perak and Johor with SK Pos Dipang in Jeram, Perak back-to-school essentials including that has shown exceptional spirit Malaysia En Route to Johor Insists on a Travel Bubble Effective Establishment of with Singapore Herd Immunityalaysia government will be extending the CIQ during MCO - Image by issue at the Causeway and Second National Immunisation Programme COVID-19 Link due to the mandatory rapid AKyaizee Mohd testing for COVID-19 by Singapore on M to all foreign nationals living in Malaysia which ccording to Johor Menteri all commercial vehicle drivers would will begin by the end of February. Besar, Datuk Ir. Haji Hasni be part of the recommendation to the The vaccination will be given at no charge under the Mohammad during a virtual Federal Government. programme. press conference, “In the interest of the industry and economic “To ease the congestion at the two Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Adham Baba and Minister of activities of the state, the Reciprocal land links, Johor can do the testing at Science, Technology and Innovation Khairy Jamaluddin, who Green Lane (RGL) ought to be continued our side and maybe Singapore can is the joint chairmen of the Vaccine Supply Access Guarantee as Singapore is also a stakeholder”. absorb the payment as they are also Committee, said in a statement on 11th February that this was bearing the cost for the testing at their agreed at a Cabinet meeting on 10th February 2021. “We respect the decision of entry points,” he said. Singapore, but we will give a request on All classes of non-citizens residing in Malaysia will the matter to the Federal Government Operating hours at the Causeway be included though priorities will be given to Malaysian since the decision includes the could be longer than the existing 12 citizens first. Further details and vaccination schedules will governments of two countries. hours between 7am and 7pm to help be subsequently provided for foreign nationals. Accordingly, I have referred the matter ease the congestion. to the Prime Minister, Tan Sri Muhyiddin The decision was taken after taking into account that an Yassin.” The Singapore government environment that is secure and free of COVID-19 in the world declared on 30th January that it can only be accomplished if, during this pandemic, as many He said it is also expected that Foreign would suspend the RGL with Malaysia people as possible obtain free vaccination on humanitarian Minister, Datuk Seri Hishammuddin for three months, beginning on 1st reasons. Hussein will discuss this matter further February 2021 along with the Republic with his counterpart from Singapore. of Korea and Germany. It is in line with the‘Protect Oneself, Protect All’theme of the programme and the assumption that“no one is safe until Hasni also said the congestion In a statement, the home ministry everyone is safe,” the joint chairmen said. of the island republic reported that its government had periodically checked According to them, the decision was also taken after its border measures to handle the having seen the large number of cases from clusters of danger of imports and local transfers foreign staff and the high cost of treating and quarantining of COVID-19 from travellers. patients with COVID-19 as a consequence. “At the end of the suspension In the declaration, they said, “Foreign workers are period, Singapore will review the RGL also part of the community and have contributed to the arrangements. Travelers who have economy of the nation.” already been approved under these RGLs to enter Singapore will continue They added that the decision also took into account that to do so,” it said. - by Norfy Shafeq TI Malaysians living abroad were given the same treatment by certain countries. - by Norfy Shafeq TI 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 103 | MAR 2021 THE ISKANDARIAN NEWS Indonesia - Malaysia Encouraging and Green Lane: A New Hope in the New Developing the Next Leading Johor Youth Normal? E duCity Leadership Summit she said in a statement. 2021 (EdLeadS) featured Johor’s helmed by His Royal Highness the Crown P rime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Meanwhile, the Malaysian Association Chairman of Tourism, Youth and Prince of Johor, Tunku Ismail Idris ibni Sultan Yassin has secured the Reciprocal Sport Committee, Datuk Onn Ibrahim are open to interested parties in Green Lane/Travel Corridor of Convention and Exhibition Organisers Hafiz bin Ghazi in a webinar session titled joining them to help out at each district. Arrangement (RGL/TCA) deal and Suppliers president, Francis Teo said “The Johor Story - Youth Leadership with Indonesia, an initiative which was the opening of borders between Malaysia Development, A Perspective from EdLeadS 2021 over the course of 5 LIVE one of the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and and Indonesia would facilitate the Progressive State”, exploring the various series have garnered 1,035 views with 1,175 Culture’s (MOTAC) recovery plans that movement of business travellers between youth development initiatives with guest registrations from over 30 institutions. The was planned since July 2020, according to the two countries. In his address, Teo said panel; EduCity’s Student Senate First universal topics engaged the attention MOTAC Minister Datuk Seri Nancy Shukri. that aspects of the plan will need to be President, Sarah Shevaun Ritikos. The hour of learners and leaders all the way from clearly determined in order for the RGL/ long session discussed on the importance Indonesia, Singapore, Brunei, Philippines, MOTAC had held consultations TCA to function as it is enforced until the to develop leadership in every youth and India, USA, UK, Peru, Germany, Oman and with the Ministry of Health (MOH), pandemic situation in both countries how it could play a vital role later in these even Egypt. the Ministry of Home Affairs and the progresses. youths’ life. Ministry of Foreign Affairs prior to the This series which concluded on the 11th four-eye meeting between the leaders “Our members include 29 convention Onn Hafiz shared about the youth of February 2021 is supported by Malaysia’s of Malaysia and Indonesia to explore centre operators located in major cities in initiatives under the state government Ministry of Education. TI possibilities for travel bubble agreements the country. We have proposed to work which includes Iskandar Malaysia with neighbouring countries during this with the government by designating apprenticeship, career moves, Xtif Johor, EdLeads 2021 promotional banner COVID-19 pandemic situation. Nancy these participating venues as temporary Entrepreneur Enhancement Programme, stated that many countries were listed for mass vaccination centres during the Johor Sports Masterplan, rebranding of the intent, including Brunei, Singapore vaccination delivery. Institut Dato Onn and Southern Volunteers and Thailand, as well as Asia-Pacific programme that calls for the youth to countries such as Japan, South Korea, The association is willing and move the faithful works of charity all over Australia and New Zealand, as the World prepared to work closely with the Johor. Health Organisation recognised these government to ensure the success of this places as safe. vaccination drive. When asked if the Southern Volunteers programme would work with local Non- “However, its implementation is We hope that through this Government Organisations, Onn Hafiz said subject to bilateral discussions and collaboration, we can facilitate the there are a lot of NGOs and individuals that considerations on health, immigration, government’s goal of providing would like to come onboard to step up data tracking, and ongoing monitoring by vaccination to 70% of the population, to the plate when it comes to leadership. the relevant agencies in both countries,” which is equivalent to 23 million Not just by leading but by helping others Malaysians,” he said. - by Norfy Shafeq TI as well. The Southern Volunteers platform
04 ISSUE 103 | MAR 2021 THE ISKANDARIAN NEWS Breaking The Quarantine’s Dull Sweat at Will We Travel Again Like the Good Old Pasir Gudang Indoor Stadium Days?kademi Sains Malaysia (ASM) had I t has come to Yayasan Suria JB’s founder, James Ho’s realisation past recipients of Iskandar Malaysia Pasir Gudang City Council (MBPG). organised a webinar titled“The Aviation that there is a need to help Social Hero Awards (IMSHA), Ihsan Ihsan Johor and Yayasan Suria JB Johor’s quarantine centre after Johor and Yayasan Suria JB had made A Industry: Taking Us to the Skies Again” up a total number of 160 personnel that are welcoming any fitness instructors as a part of their Road to Recovery to help organise the daily activities. Series Season 2 on 23rd February which was also he underwent quarantine period had come together to do some aerobic Interested parties can head to https:// broadcasted in the organiser’s Facebook page. www.facebook.com/IhsanJohorRangers/ himself, returning from his 13 days exercise daily and birthday parties for for more details. - by Norfy Shafeq TI Riad Asmat, CEO of AirAsia Malaysia relayed in the webinar that he is keeping an optimistic of non-medical volunteer mission in the patients accordingly. Ihsan Johor CEO, Farrah Baptist perspective about bouncing back for the aviation and Yayasan Suria JB’s Founder, and travelling industry while also noting that the Semporna, Sabah. While the basic Jointly coordinated with Malaysia James Ho with their volunteers, practise would not be like how it used to be and running their commitment to the the world has to adapt to the new ways of doing needs of food supplies are met, there Youth and Sports Ministry, the daily Pasir Gudang quarantine centre things. is the need of emotional and mental aerobics were held by professional On COVID-19 vaccination passport that was proposed by International Air Transport support being in an enclosed space coaches tailored for recovering patients Association (IATA) and should it be globally imposed as an SOP in aviation industry, Mohsin with strangers, apart from friends and to stretch their joints and also to boost Aziz, Director of Pangolin Investment Maybank, included his commentary that such concept is not family members. their morale. new citing it had been done for prior vaccination 30 years ago. Should it be back, it should not be This is supported by Ihsan Johor’s Ihsan Johor together with Yayasan viewed with reservation with computer systems today that would make implementing it easier and CEO, Farrah Faridah Baptist in her Suria JB has supplied RM5K worth of without prohibitive cost. Facebook share where she stated ‘goodies’, ranging from fridges, bread The webinar is the first episode of the second series of the webinar and the public could watch that the centre’s personnel asked the toaster, banquet tables, pails, Mandarin the whole discussion in Akademi Sains Malaysia’s Facebook page. - by Norfy Shafeq TI volunteers if there are any activities that oranges, bread & buns, mineral water, could be done to put some cheer in the packet drinks, Milo, bread, kaya, and etc. environment. They had so much time The cause was supported by agencies but so little to do. like NADMA, MOH, PDRM, APM, 14 agencies, including 2 Non- RELA, JKM, ATM, BOMBA, MEDIVEST, Government Organisations that are Department of Information, SAJ and MRT Corp Unveils Winning Design for the Johor Bahru- Singapore RTS Link Stationass Rapid Transit The design was the Grand Prize Majesty was the Patron of the competition winner of the PAM+MRT Corp RTS Link and Chairman of the Jury Panel. Corporation Sdn Bhd Station Façade Design Ideas Competition, (MRT Corp) unveiled theorganised jointly by MRT Corp and A total of 91 submissions were received and a total of 10 designs were then M winning design for the Johor Bahru-Singapore Pertubuhan Akitek Malaysia (PAM), which shortlisted for the final judging which Rapid Transit System Link (RTS Link) ran from 23rd November 2020 till 25th took place on 8th February 2021. - by Project’s Bukit Chagar station. January 2021. Priya Manikam TI The modern and futuristic design, Johor Bahru-based architect Ar.Chin dubbed “The Integration of Two”, Yee Chong from SM Architects Sdn Bhd was inspired by the historical and submitted the winning design which intertwined relationship between Johor allowed him to take home RM250,000.00 Bahru and Singapore which had existed in prize money. for centuries and will now be further The competition was the brainchild Pic courtesy of MRT Corp enhanced with the RTS Link between of His Majesty the Sultan of Johor, Sultan Johor Bahru and Singapore. Ibrahim Ibni Almarhum Sultan Iskandar. His HSR Termination: Johor’s Connectivity and Economic Perspective – Part Two Impact on economic activities future HSR station.The properties in people movement and boost not be a white elephant. BRT Wahab Jumrah Iskandar Puteri are mainly targeted economic activities between system would greatly benefit Tand property to the Malaysian semi-professional Malaysia and Singapore. Although Johoreans who wish to commute Wahab Jumrah is currently he termination of HSR to professionals or Singaporeans. the termination of HSR would by public transportation. Once an Assistant Manager within plan would have a This objective will probably go negatively impact several areas in operational in 2023 – 2024, this greater impact on the down the drain. The same thing Johor, Johor Bahru could remain project will be the backbone and the Legal and Corporate development within will bound to happen to Bandar as the largest contributor to the success story of Iskandar Malaysia. Governance Department Iskandar Puteri area. Medini Universiti Pagoh and Pura Kencana economy in Johor. at Vistra Malaysia. He was Iskandar is poised to be the township. Both are within the Conclusion a legal practitioner in Raja, second CBD of Johor Bahru is vicinity of the proposed Muar and The Gemas-JB Sentral double Darryl & Loh before moving located in Iskandar Puteri. The Batu Pahat stations. The property tracking railway project is also The termination of HSR is to Johor to work as an in- state government will now need developers and banks have to something to be excited about. causing a huge loss to Malaysia house counsel. He can be to re-think on a new model to come out with new incentives such The construction is in steady phase especially Johor due to its attract business activities and as Rent-To-Own, 12-months free and is scheduled for completion proximity and reliance towards reached at Linkedin connectivity in the area. Already installment or lower deposit fees to by late 2022. This project could Singapore. The truth hurts but struggled with oversupply and lack cater to domestic buyers. be the next big thing in terms of Johor should take this opportunity of advertisement, Iskandar Puteri KL-JB connectivity. The project to adjust on new models and should not be a ghost town with Better plan for Johor and will reduce the time travel from 7 incentives to boost domestic a city-standing status. Iskandar Malaysia? hours to 3.5 hours. This project may connectivity and economy instead. replace the grief over HSR. This HSR termination should Township developments such With the Rapid Transit System not hinder Johor to become as Puteri Harbour, Medini and (RTS) project on the way and Budget 2021 could also be the second biggest economic Gerbang Nusajaya will struggle to expected to commence by end used as the catalyst to improve powerhouse after Klang Valley. find buyers and investors. Newly- of 2026, Johoreans could rely on the connectivity in Johor especially launched properties are estimated this mode of transportation in in Iskandar region with Bus Rapid *The facts and views expressed at RM600,000 to RM1 million which the future. Even without the HSR, Transit (BRT).The lead operator and are solely that of the author and do is not average property prices for the RTS project could facilitate contractor have been appointed not necessarily reflect that of the Johorean due to its proximity to the and therefore, this project should editorial board. TI
05 ISSUE 103 | MAR 2021 THE ISKANDARIAN NEWS Datuk Ir. Khairil Anwar Ahmad MDORNITLHLLY President / Chief Executive Officer Iskandar Investment Berhad (IIB) Datuk Ir. Khairil Anwar Ahmad is presently the President/Chief Executive Officer of Iskandar Investment Berhad (IIB) where he oversees the strategic planning and development of catalytic and commercial projects by IIB in Iskandar Malaysia. His current role includes forming collaborative efforts with federal and state agencies, global partners, other key players, and stakeholders. Datuk Khairil first joined IIB in 2007 as the Head of Procurement and in 2008 he became the Head of Educity Iskandar Malaysia Sdn Bhd, where he was responsible for crafting the strategic planning and developing the masterplan of EduCity, Asia’s first integrated education hub. In June 2012, Datuk Khairil was appointed as the Chief Operating Officer of IIB. Datuk Khairil was then appointed as the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of Medini Iskandar Malaysia Sdn Bhd, a position he held from June 2013 until October 2016. Datuk Khairil has over 31 years of experience in project management, construction, engineering design, property development and credit management and has been involved in the development of Iskandar Malaysia for over 10 years since 2007. Datuk Khairil is a Professional Engineer and obtained his Bachelor of Science in Civil & Environmental Engineering from the University of Wisconsin-Madison, USA in 1984 and an MBA from the University of Strathclyde, Glasgow in 1993. Datuk Khairil has also attended leadership programmes at Harvard Business School, International Institute for Management Development (IMD) of Switzerland and Ecole Hôtelière de Lausanne (EHL). In view of the many of Khazanah-owned jointly establish the Drone and Robotics F&B tenants, on top of the two recently So far, various sets of incentives companies in IP, what is the role of IIB? Zone in Medini, called DRZ Iskandar. launched cafes, Del’s Kitchen and August have been granted by the federal and Since our inception in 2006, IIB has played We look forward to announcing more Cafe. state governments to attract investors a key role as the strategic developer of new initiatives under the Iskandar NEXT to Medini, and the state government’s catalytic projects aimed at stimulating umbrella. In 2021 The Management announcement to position Medini as long-term development of Iskandar Development Institute of Singapore a Johor Digital Hub will also boost this Malaysia, with focus on high impact Under the Iskandar NEXT programme, (MDIS) will be opening their new campus township to become an ideal destination projects in key promoted sectors namely we look forward to establishing a drone in EduCity targeted at enrolling 6,000 that focuses on digital innovation, education, tourism and leisure, creative, academy in Medini in Q1 2021. students, which will increase the vibrancy emerging economies, and talent logistics, and healthcare and wellness. There is a lot of excitement about of EduCity. development. In recent years, IIB has evolved into a DRZ Iskandar (Drone & Robotics What is the recovery strategy for Medini strategic investment holding company Zone Iskandar). Will this help drive & Iskandar Puteri post pandemic? Moving forward, what will be among including coordinating Khazanah linked investments and create more jobs for Our priority is to protect our existing the new normal adopted by IIB both companies in Iskandar Puteri in order to local talents? investments in real estate and start the internally and externally? establish a robust economic zone with IIB is very excited with the announcement virtuous cycle of attracting new investors Under the theme of sustainability and a vision to establish a sustainable and of DRZ Iskandar as the first Drone and and increasing our asset values. We aim to inclusivity, IIB is always working towards inclusive metropolis. Robotics Zone in Southeast Asia as it create a more resilient circular economy ensuring equitable growth for all, Is Iskandar Malaysia still a vibrant will boost digital innovation in Iskandar and to attract investments in industries especially our surrounding communities. attraction to talent and investors? Malaysia. We are proud to collaborate with which are relatively recession proof such Apart from helping to stimulate the Absolutely. Together with various esteemed partners, DHL, a global leader in as integrated healthcare, food security business community in Iskandar Puteri, IIB Khazanah linked companies in Iskandar innovation, Malaysian Global Innovation and renewable energy. This will in turn Malaysia, IIB continues to invest and & Creativity Centre (MaGIC), MDEC as well create new high-income jobs and has also invested heavily in giving develop high-impact projects in the as domestic and international partners develop new talents. back to the community in education, tourism and leisure, creative, to jointly grow and develop the DRZ Iskandar Malaysia through logistics, GBS Iskandar, and health and Iskandar ecosystem, thus positioning To revive the tourism our various corporate wellness sectors to cultivate an attractive Iskandar Puteri as a primary destination industry, we are working social responsibility investment destination and a vibrant, for the drone and robotics industry as closely with the state initiatives. TI liveable region. well as driving investments and creating government through the job opportunities in Johor. recently established Iskandar To date, IIB has developed and Puteri Tourism Action Council successfully delivered several catalytic Recognised as part of the National (IPTAC). projects in Iskandar Puteri including Technology and Innovation Sandbox (NTIS) 7 major infrastructure projects under under the Ministry of Science, Technology Datuk Ir. Khairil Anwar Ahmad Rancangan Malaysia Ke-9. On top of and Innovation (MOSTI), the DRZ Iskandar that, the state government’s plan to initiative helps us meet several goals. establish Medini as the Johor Digital Hub Apart from job creation, it can also upskill as announced in the Johor 2021 Budget, local talents and move them higher up in is timely as Medini is now ready with the technology value chain, thus creating comprehensive built infrastructure. greater socio-economic impact. Tell us more about Iskandar NEXT Share with us the latest happenings at Iskandar NEXT (New Economy Experience EduCity & Talent) marks another key milestone for Just last year we launched EduCity 2.0, to IIB in attracting businesses to Iskandar change the landscape of education and Puteri. Launched in October last year position EduCity as a brand destination by the Menteri Besar of Johor, YAB among other global players. One of Datuk Ir. Haji Hasni bin Mohammad, the initiatives under EduCity 2.0 is this initiative is designed to be a public- Perantis Iskandar, a scheme to revive the private partnership programme to economy via human capital development. support the state’s agenda in creating job Modelled from Germany’s Apprenticeship opportunities for Johoreans and reinstate programme, the programme is designed investors’ confidence in Iskandar Malaysia. to meet industry’s demands and needs via reskilling and upskilling initiatives. Two months after the launch, we EduCity had organised various key are proud to see the first collaboration events which are essential in their brand between IIB’s subsidiary IIB Ventures campaign in Q1 2021. The year has had Sdn Bhd, DHL and Malaysian Global a positive start. We are also excited to Innovation & Creativity Centre (MaGIC) to share that EduCity Hub will feature new
06 The Iskandarian ISSUE 103 | MAR 2021 Advertisement
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In this tale, a the most celebrated names in the of pop culture. “to elevate her career to greater lone warrior, Raya, must track down the tapestry of modern Singaporean heights”. legendary last dragon to stop an evil force music with the likes of Yung Raja, “The main reason I write and that has returned after 500 years to once Fariz Jabba and ALYPH, she is poised release music is so that people will Echoing his sentiments, again threaten her homeworld, Kumandra. not only for an illustrious music know they’re not alone in feeling a producer Flightsch shares, “Iman career, but to be the next female certain way”, says Iman Fandi as she Fandi’s a hidden gem” and that With lots of uncertainties out there popstar in a new generation of outlines her mission as an artist. her “determined focus on writing regarding outdoor dining in people’s young Singaporean talents. This empathy comes from a place of powerful and meaningful songs that minds, we have decided to share some easy empowerment and determination: paint vivid stories”, affirms that she recipes from Ayam Brand Malaysia that you The only daughter of Fandi “I want to be better. I also want to has all the makings of a great artist. can easily prepare at home. Do try out the Ahmad, Singapore’s most beloved branch out and explore territories recipes and share with us the outcome and and renowned sports icon, Iman outside of Asia. I love experimenting Music for hope, inspiration, photos. Fandi is no stranger to being a and trying new things and I feel that awe and healing – Iman Fandi public figure and performer. In the being signed to the biggest label in aims to deliver on all counts with While most places may be inaccessible public eye since she was a child, the world will push me to do my a distinction that is timely yet physically, virtually all is not lost. Welcome to the 20-year-old has grown up with very best, and more.” timeless, smoulderingly personal yet this new norm that we’ve been accustomed an intimate understanding of the universally destined. “Timeframe” to by now. In line with this, the Johor dedication and hard work required On 19th February 2021, her and its visual statement in the form Heritage Foundation (YWJ) has created a in the honing of her craft. With her debut single “Timeframe” written of a well-conceptualised music virtual museum for all cultural buffs out various accolades as an athlete, by her, produced by Singaporean video, are just the beginning of her there. Flip over to our Travel column to learn model and influencer, she has turned hip-hop luminary Flightsch and exquisite bloom. more about it. heads with a spirit that is singular, mixed by 13-time Grammy-winning defining and so utterly compelling. engineer John Hanes, who has Music has always been a love of As always, for those wishing to share their lent his expert touch to numerous hers. Born on R&B and bred on Pop, fashion collection, travel tales, or like us to Iman Fandi grew up with a rich records by pop’s A-list such as, The the songstress draws inspiration review your restaurant/hotel for a staycation, and diverse musical palette but her Weeknd, Ariana Grande, Taylor Swift from singers spanning from Sam drop me an e-mail at waves.lifestyle@gmail. latter-day influences orbit the show- and Lana Del Rey, will make her aims Smith to Trey Songz. With such com and be featured. For more news, do stopping pop and R&B likes of The and intentions clear. width of musical palate, there is access www.theiskandarian.com and https:// Weekend, Rihanna and Beyoncé. much to be expected from this waves-lifestyle.com/. Iman started her career in the media Simon Jerome Nasser, Managing singer’s repertoire to come. 2021 is when she was 11 years old. Model, Director of Universal Music Iman’s year and music is yet another The Iskandarian would like to wish all actor, athlete, and now singer, the Singapore, celebrates his joyous industry the artist will take by storm. the dynamic ladies out there a very Happy reception of Iman Fandi’s signing, Women’s Day! “Once in a while, a star comes Time to Frame Singapore’s new icon – Iman Fandi. TI Priya SEND LETTERS OR INQUIRIES TO www.facebook.com/waveslifestyle www.waves-lifestyle.com [email protected] Waves Lifestyle
The Iskandarian | WAVES Lifestyle MAR 2021 | Page 3 m O V I E u p d at e s Are You Being Judged for Having US AGAIN COVID-19? - Part 1 By The Walt Disney Company Malaysia When a friend of mine told me she has COVID-19, my first reaction was shocking. “Us Again,” the first new theatrical short from Walt Disney In the millisecond, I wanted to know how animation studios in five years, set for 5th March debut in she got it. When I heard she caught it theaters worldwide with “Raya and the Last Dragon;” short because of her carelessness to protect will premiere on Disney+ in June herself, my respond shifted into a furious “Us Again,” a vibrant and original new theatrical animated mode. “How could you be so careless?” I short from director Zach Parrish that brings together dance, threw the question to her. In her sadness music, emotional storytelling and inspired animation, is set and frustration, she said to me, “You are like to debut exclusively in theaters worldwide beginning on 5th everyone else, judging me because I got March, playing on the same bill as Walt Disney Animation COVID-19!” Studios’ (WDAS) newest animated feature, “Raya and the Last Dragon.” The film is Disney Animation’s first new theatrical short That statement slapped me into reality. since the 2016 release of “Inner Workings,” which accompanied I should respond compassionately, and “Moana” on the big screen. “Us Again” is scheduled to make its not with judgement and anger. However, streaming debut in June on Disney+. I know why my first reaction was non- compassionate. According to my friend, Set in a vibrant city pulsating with rhythm and movement, almost everyone in her list of friends and an elderly man and his young-at-heart wife rekindle their family reacted the same way. youthful passion for life and each other on one magical night. The years fade away as the joy of dancing propels them across The judgement and anger didn’t happen to the exciting cityscape of their youth and revives fond memories her alone. Last year, a friend of mine shared and ambitions. “Us Again” is told entirely without dialogue and the same reaction when she found out her set to an original funk and soul musical score reminiscent of husband caught the virus while treating a the mid-60s. TI patient in the ICU. He got infected despite the protection he had from PPE equipment RAYA AND THE LAST DRAGON and following protocol. Both of us could see where her anger came from, and we W alt Disney Animation Studios’ “Raya and the Last reflected on that. We acknowledge this Dragon” travels to the fantasy world of Kumandra, anger is not an isolated expression in an where humans and dragons lived together long individual. It is a collective behaviour ago in harmony. But when an evil force threatened towards the virus. We view the virus as a the land, the dragons sacrificed themselves to save humanity. threat that takes away our freedom in life. Now, 500 years later, that same evil has returned and it’s up to Therefore, our first reaction towards the a lone warrior, Raya, to track down the legendary last dragon to virus is anger and judgement. restore the fractured land and its divided people. However, along her journey, she’ll learn that it’ll take more than a dragon to save For more than a year, COVID-19 changed our the world — it’s going to take trust and teamwork as well. financial and economic freedom, and social interaction and intimacy with others. Many Raya and the Last Dragon features the voices of Kelly Marie people also lost their jobs and income. We Tran as Raya, a warrior whose wit is as sharp as her blade, and also experienced social disturbance within Awkwafina as the magical, mythical, self-deprecating dragon families, societies and politically. At the named Sisu. Characters also include a street-savvy 10-year-old same time, we are trying to survive this. We entrepreneur named Boun, the formidable giant Tong and a ought to get angry and be judgmental, but thieving toddler Noi with her band of Ongis. we can’t express our rage to the virus. That would be expressing emotion to the wall. Raya and the Last Dragon” is inspired by the cultures and The anger and judgement need to be heard, people of Southeast Asia – throughout the making of the movie, and who is the best receptor of our rage? TI filmmakers worked closely with the Raya Southeast Asia Story Trust, which consisted of expert consultants from the region. Rose Osman is a Certified Human Design Professional. She’s a guide for Living Directed by Don Hall and Carlos López Estrada and produced Your Design Workshop and coaches by Osnat Shurer and Peter Del Vecho, Raya and the Last Dragon others on self healing for anxiety via will be released simultaneously in theaters and on Disney+ with E-courses and group workshops Premier Access on 5th March 2021. TI yourpersonalmotivator BucketOfRoses Release Date: www.roselifecoach.com 5th March 2021 Discover your True Self, Inner Power, Potentials Genre: and Purpose with Human Design. Visit Facebook Animated fantasy adventure Page : Human Design Malaysia for more info. Voice cast: Kelly Marie Tran, Awkwafina Directed by: Don Hall, Carlos López Estrada Co-directed by: Paul Briggs, John Ripa Produced by: Osnat Shurer, Peter Del Vecho Writers: Qui Nguyen, Adele Lim Source: The Walt Disney Company Malaysia
The Iskandarian | WAVES Lifestyle MAR 2021 | Page 4 12 travel Miss the Museums? 3 places in Johor worth knowing that you can visit virtually at the comfort of your homes By Norfy Shafeq and Mersing Museum, in Johor. Consul General of The Republic of Indonesia in Johor Bahry, Sunarko during his [email protected] The Johor Heritage Foundation (YWJ) physical at the Johor Figure Museum pre-MCO in 2020 Johor’s fist Menteri Besar Dato’ has created a ‘virtual museum’ to give a Johor maestro, the late Omar Taib in the Since its implementation, YWJ has Ja’afar Mohamed portrait hung in the different angle for the wanderlust, and 1970s era and quite synonymous with the received positive feedback from internet museum and presented virtually on the some of the artefacts are already online continuous fresh song “Rindu Bayangan” users. Coupled with the quiz and puzzle in social media platforms including sung by Carefree, as well as the Raya song initiative offering exclusive prizes from Wmuseum’s Facebook their Instagram, Facebook, websites and sung by Aman Shah entitled “Kepulangan YWJ, the organic reach for each post on e have had our fill on the YouTube. Yang Dinanti”. the department’s official social media has western world’s museums increased by an average of at least 10,000 that are available for a virtual YWJ Director, Sharil Nizam Abdul Rahim The video of the Johor writing artist, access. The number of followers on the tour, how about the ones said the idea of producing video of artefacts, the late Mohammad @ Mokhtar Talib or department’s official social media has also in our homeland - Johor? Heard of the weaving art, Johor figures and dishes began better known as Pak Matlab, was an expert increased since the introduction of this standing keris mystery? Do you know what since the implementation of the Movement in Jawi writing until he was named the‘Jawi virtual endeavour. a Graflex Compact camera aged 115 years Control Order (MCO) in March 2020 and Fighting Figure 2008’. old looks like? covered 8 segmentations namely Johor In order to start your virtual journey, Celik Sejarah (History-Literate Johor), Johor Pak Matlab produced more than 400 visit www.ywj.gov.my. Also check out their All those are among the various historical Peka Bahasa (Literature-Knowledgeable books in various fields, especially in Jawi social media for more videos, facts and artefacts and cultural heritage found at the Johor), Johor Heritage Dishes, Johor and children’s writing. information: Museum of Figures, Kota Tinggi Museum Renowned Figures, Artefacts of The Week, Instagram: yayasanwarisanjohor The Clothing of Johor, Cultural Arts and Johor Weaving Gallery YouTube: Yayasan Warisan Johor Johor Artistes. Facebook: YayasanWarisanJohor TI For the Johor Weaving Gallery, there is a Collection of old artefacts video of Johor Yarn fabric, which is a woven Johor Figure Museum plaque in front Johor patterned Muar woven patented of the entrance door The video is part of the materials on under the Malaysian Intellectual Property display from three museums and galleries Corporation (MyIPO). operating under YWJ, namely the Museum of Figures, Kota Tinggi Museum and Mersing YWJ is currently researching some Museum. artefacts for video production to give viewers a real picture. Sharil Nizam said, “Only selected artefacts are on display among them 300-year-old mace from the because most of the artefacts are over 100 13th century used by maritime pilots. years old and have a high aesthetic value and have not been released yet,”said Sharil. “This mace was among the artefacts found. In addition to spear points, dagger Museum of Figures points and cannons found along the Johor Kota Tinggi River, in 1996 during Museum of Figures in Johor Bahru has archaeological studies. We will also produce videos of three Johor figures that have a video on gambus seludang belonging to contributed in various fields. Pak Lomak”, added Sharil. Among them, veteran composer, One of the artefacts in the museum that is presented in the video
11 ISSUE 103 | MAR 2021 THE ISKANDARIAN LIVE A Gigantic Mural to Greet You A tribute to frontlines for their effort and dedication in battling the COVID-19 pandemic, the mural is under the initiative of MOTAC break the COVID-19 chain more (TRUSK ALI) were appointed by the Tourism, Arts and Culture Malaysia effectively and continuously National Art Gallery in completing at a later date. through the mural painting this effort from 26th January 2021 themed COVID-19 awareness. It is to 4th February 2021 to paint a Incorporated in Malaysia in also to commemorate the services 500 x 21 feet mural. The artists 1996, international private hospital of the country’s frontliners against will be painting vibrant, outdoor company Columbia Asia Sdn Bhd COVID-19. mural that captures not only the opened its first hospital in 1997. devastating impact of the virus, Today, Columbia Asia offers 19 The agency has selected Johor but it also shows the hope of operational medical facilities local artists for the programme. the country in overcoming the across Asia with 13 in Malaysia. For Two Johor talented artists, COVID-19 pandemic. The full mural further information, please contact Iskandar Noor Rahim (AKEEM) will be unveiled by Ministry of Columbia Asia Hospital – Tebrau at and Muhamad Razali bin Abd Aziz + 60 (7) 272 9999. TI WMural - Artist, Trusk Ali at work Agency (NADMA) under the Group photo with doctors and the management team of Columbia Asia Hospital-Tebrau ork is underway Prime Minister’s Department. The on a 500 feet National Art Gallery which is an mural painting agency under MOTAC has been at Columbia responsible for the implementation Asia Hospital-Tebrau façade in of this programme. Both the conjunction with the ‘COVID-19 agency and the hospital have New Normal Culture Campaign’ come together to conceptualise under Ministry of Tourism, Arts and the idea for the mural and at the Culture Malaysia 2020. same time to main the hospital’s corporate image and objective. This programme involves 5 Zones namely Borneo Zone, The objective of this mural Northern Zone, Southern Zone, painting programme also aims Central Zone and East Zone. to convey a message to the Columbia Asia Hospital – Tebrau community and the general is delighted to be a part of the public by commemorating all programme representing the Standard Operating Procedures Southern Zone. The Programme (SOPs) set by the Ministry of is also jointly organised by the Health and the authorities to National Disaster Management Have You Ever Eaten a Pearl Conch? Y ou might know them known to travel from a shallow themselves in the sand or silt (a knife-like plate that seals its Serina Rahman as siput gong-gong, seagrass bed to deeper waters. and disappear. shell tight when it retracts). a popular seafood During the day, they often bury Serina Rahman is the co-founder best boiled simply A close look at a live pearl Pearl conches eat algae of Kelab Alami and a Visiting with lemongrass, and ginger. conch will reveal a pair of and detritus (natural waste Fellow at the ISEAS-Yusof Ishak The name ‘gong-gong’ actually eyes on eye-stalks. It also or debris) and live for about 2 came from the sound of a dog’s has a long proboscis (snout) years, if they are not collected Institute, Singapore. She is also a bark; the species used to be that it extends to explore its by a human hunter. Their only winner of the Iskandar Malaysia known as the ‘dog conch’. But surroundings and hunt for other predators are cone snails, have you ever seen one close food. If you pick up this creamy- volutes (kilah) and monkeys in Social Hero Awards (IMSHA) up and alive? golden, smooth but relatively the coastal shallows. thick-shelled snail, and put it Pearl conches live in gently on your palm, it might Kelab Alami conducts seagrass meadows, and are extend a claw-like appendage guided seagrass tours that most active in the evening to help it move or flip over. That allow you to meet and (when they are often picked ‘claw’ is actually an operculum examine these fascinating up by humans at the low creatures up close. Log on tide). When stressed, they are to kelabalami.weebly.com for more information. TI
12 ISSUE 103 | MAR 2021 THE ISKANDARIAN WORK Key Features in the Latest Industrial Relations (Amendment) Act 2020 T he long-awaited Industrial Relations more thoroughly discussed by litem (Court appointed guardian) to entertain appeal cases rather (Amendment) Act represented parties. to represent the complainant. than a judicial review due to its 2020 (Amendment Act) speedy process and remedy. Moreover, unfair dismissal Previously, unfair dismissal complaints will no longer have proceedings under the IRA are The Industrial Court can now impose interest at the rate of 8% which was gazetted on 20th to go through the Minister for it only entitled to private sector per annum or lesser, depending on the case and decision of the February 2020 finally came into to be referred to Industrial Court. employees. The Amendment Act judges. The Amendment Act also increased the penalty for force on 1st January 2021. The In other words, unfair dismissal now extends the scope to claim non-compliance to a fine not exceeding RM50,000.00. enforcement however, does not cases that are not settled during for unfair dismissal to employees The Amendment Act has now include the provisions on sole the conciliation process at the of statutory bodies. The scope of abolished the punishment of imprisonment term for offences bargaining rights and essential Industrial Department will be employees is prescribed by the relating to illegal picketing, strikes and lock-outs. However, services amendments. referred to Industrial Court Ministry in the gazette. it has increased the penalty for such offences to RM5,000.00 The Amendment Act without filtration from the Industrial Court & High Court introduces significant changes to Ministry. Conclusion Dzulfadhli bin Lamin several provisions and removed The Amendment Act now The Amendment Act There are several other Lead Consultant important provisions introduced certain powers from the initial allows unfair dismissal cases empowers the High Court to hear in the Amendment Act that MECA South Sdn Bhd employers need to be aware of [email protected] Act. Below are key features of to continue proceeding even appeal cases from the Industrial to be updated with the latest industrial practices i.e. Trade to the industrial relations and the Amendment Act: after the death of the claimant. Court in the same manner as Union recognition processes, litigation practices in Malaysia Ministerial powers and etc. Not in the near future. TI Unfair Dismissal The Industrial Court are also hearing an appeal case for a to mention the saved provisions allowed to provide back wages Sessions Court decision. As such, (not yet enforceable) which would bring a huge impact The A m e n d m e n t and/or compensation in lieu the appeal application must Act introduces new sub of reinstatement to the next- be filed within 14 days from paragraphs under Section 20 of-kin. Previously, each case is receiving the award. Previously, (unfair dismissal) to allow an considered as a personal claim, an aggrieved party may only file employer and an employee therefore it will be automatically a judicial review which is limited to be presented by anyone struck out upon the death of the to the decision-making process except a lawyer during the claimant. rather than full review of the conciliation process in the The Amendment Act also substantive merits of the case. Industrial Relations Department, allows next-of-kin of mentally This application does not subject to the permission of disabled complainant to make abolish the application for a the Director General. This will an application at the High Court judicial review, however the make the conciliation meetings to obtain order for guard ad High Court will more than likely 48% of Respondents Want Flexible Work Arrangements after the Pandemic 4 8% of local respondents want a combination across 34 markets around the the organisation its culture capabilities to equip their staff with that take the effort to invest in of working from home world, with a minimum of 400 as it can be difficult to foster adequate hardware and software their employees’ health will see and the office after respondents in each market. relationships and replicate the for remote working. More than an increase in work productivity, the pandemic. A further 14% of energy required for effective four in five respondents (82%) reduced absenteeism as well as respondents want to work-from- Fahad Naeem, Head of collaborations. Companies will feel they have the equipment higher engagement levels at home permanently. Operations at Randstad Malaysia need to take small steps towards and technology to deal with the work.” said, “Flexible working policies finding a balanced strategy that digitalisation in their job. The Randstad Workmonitor can help reduce stress levels can both retains its culture and He added, “Ensuring good survey highlights the greatest and boost morale, as employees meet employees’ expectations.” Work-life balance includes mental and physical health is concerns and challenges are able to find a way to strike receiving support for physical an organisation-wide effort. candidates are faced with. The a balance between their work In response to the pandemic, and mental health Employees need to raise the survey was conducted in October and personal lives. However, many employers have sped up issues they face so that HR remote working can also cost on developing their technology Eight in 10 respondents feel teams can invest in the right that their employer is supporting programmes and healthcare them mentally and emotionally packages to boost employees’ through the pandemic. This well-being. For example, the sentiment is slightly lower among younger generation can be the mature workers, with 74% of involved in driving mental respondents aged 45 to 54 years health awareness campaigns old feeling supported by their to destigmatise it, which employers. would encourage more of their colleagues to speak out and seek According to Naeem, professional help.” “Limited social interactions and heightened fears about the virus One in three respondents can raise serious health issues. wishes that their employers This could also be exacerbated by would provide employee the blurring lines between work assistance programmes and life which may result in what post-COVID-19. One in two feels like a long continuous day. respondents expects their Employees are therefore more employers to have good health likely to go to their managers for policies and safety protocols help and guidance to manage (52%) and access to health their stress levels during such insurance (51%). - by Randstad extraordinary times. Companies Malaysia TI
13 ISSUE 103 | MAR 2021 THE ISKANDARIAN INVEST Accumulating Wealth Tips & Tricks Spring Cleaning your Portfolio S o we just had a peaceful occurring, we could be in the nearly two weeks, it would be 3) The short and mid-term Tey Bin Yuen Chinese New Year, and beginning of spring. So how do healthier for the bull to take a moving average (MA) lines, such although we were not we welcome the arrival of spring? breather and settle below $60. as MA8, MA10, MA30, MA50 is Binyuen is the founder of allowed to visit friends, Through spring cleaning! Like what If this happened, the immediate trending downwards. It simply BY Enrich Resources and the author seeing the COVID-19 cases we usually do for our loving homes, resistance would be at $60 means there are more sellers than of‘Life beyond the Comfort Zone’ decreasing lately, I felt relieved. we need to spring clean our stock followed by $65. buyers. and‘Profit from Share Investment’. I would not have expected this portfolio to enjoy a better return. when hearing the 5000 cases So how do we do it? Before we get Spring Cleaning your Portfolio 4) Your counter is already in His books are available in the reported in a day. More positively, our hands dirty, let us have a look losses which are above your risk National Libraries in Malaysia we can see countries like US at a chart that depicts a possible The rationale is similar to our level. and Singapore or online via and UK’s cases have declined spring. home spring cleaning. You just http://www.teybinyuen.com/ significantly. Many have started to have to be aware of what you have, If you are an investor, consider profitfromshareinvestment believe the vaccines are working This is the Crude Oil WTI and decide what to keep or throw. cleaning up (sell) your stock if the and the world is on its path to Future price chart up to the 15th It works differently in trading and below scenarios have occurred: are uncertainties that would affect economic recovery. There are a of February 2021. Clearly, the oil investing. company’s earnings. However, if few signs to observe that the worst price has commenced an uptrend 1) The company’s prospect is the disruption is prolonged and could be over. since mid-November 2020. You can If you are a trader, consider no longer as bright or has become the management cannot resolve, see the bull has emerged stronger cleaning up (sell) your stock if the unclear. For instance, the pandemic it is not a good sign. First, the crude oil price has when the candles are seen moving below scenarios have occurred: has affected many food and increased steadily from around away from the pink (MA50) and beverage companies. Although we 3) When you have found a $50 to $60 / barrel in merely golden lines (MA200). The recent 1) A downtrend has formed believe the pandemic will go away better investment. Investing is a month. Although the U.S breakout above $54 since February and the candles have moved one day, no one knows when. a probability game. You want to index had a correction toward 2021 has further confirmed the below the MA50 line. invest in companies with lower the end of January 2021, it market confidence. 2) The earnings have been risks but higher chances of return. quickly resumed the uptrend 2) Share price has broken below market expectation For example, if you have found and continued breaking new After an aggressive run for a critical support, such as the for more than two quarters company B with much higher highs. At the time of writing, previous low, a round number or without justified explanation. As earning visibility than company A, almost all the stock indexes a gap. investors, we understand there you know which one to choose. around the globe are bullish. In addition, the broad upswing The companies or strategies mentioned in this article are meant for study purpose only. It 4) The counters you have are in commodity prices since the doesn’t constitute any ‘buy’ or ‘sell’ recommendation. Please consult your financial professional out of theme. Instead, select the past few months is another sign if you want to make any decision. (Source: www.investing.com) counters with theme especially of returning demand. More when it’s at an earlier stage. For Wall Street analysts have shared example, energy, travel, banking that we are at the beginning of industry are themes for economic commodities super cycle, owing recovery. to the unprecedented monetary and fiscal policies. Moreover, Conclusion companies with recovery themes, such as banks, energy, theme Here is the good news; you parks, and airline share prices do not have to wait for spring to have been moving north, too. do spring cleaning. To gain better outcome, I encourage you to do it Assuming there are no more regularly. TI destructive black swan events Sustainable Investment: UOBAM (Malaysia) Launches its First Shariah-Compliant ESG Fund The United-i Asia ESG Income portfolio for investors’ long-term benefit. and services, or have socially-responsible across Asia. In January 2020, UOB Asset Shariah-based investing prohibits interest, business practices. Management Ltd, the parent company of Fund combines Shariah principles security lending and short-selling. It also UOBAM (Malaysia), became a signatory of incorporates negative screening to exclude Lim Suet Ling, Chief Executive Officer of the UN-supported Principles for Responsible and ESG considerations to invest sectors such as tobacco, alcohol and UOBAM (Malaysia), said, “The launch of the Investment, which was developed by an breweries, weapons and armaments, as UiAIF is timely as the COVID-19 pandemic international group of institutional investors in companies that do well by well as other non-halal products. This will has given everyone a good reason to to encourage the increasing relevance of be complemented by sustainable investing reassess the importance of being sustainable ESG issues to investment practices. Udoing good that uses positive screening as a means of in what we do and how we invest. With the OB Asset Management (Malaysia) selecting the best performing companies disruption to our daily activities, from where The UiAIF is suitable for retail investors (UOBAM Malaysia) had launched that offer environmentally-friendly products we go to how we interact with others, come who have a moderate risk profile. It is the United-i Asia ESG Income opportunities to reimagine what is possible available in Malaysian Ringgit, Australian Fund (UiAIF), which seeks to Lim Suet Ling, Chief Executive Officer to ensure that create a better future. Dollar and US Dollar with an initial minimum provide retail investors with income of UOBAM (Malaysia) investment of RM1,000, AUD1,000 and dividends and capital appreciation “To help businesses advance responsibly, US$1,000 respectively. UOBAM (Malaysia) over medium to long term through we also engage with our portfolio companies is the manager of the UiAIF, while UOB sustainable investments. The fund invests to help improve the sustainability of their Islamic Asset Management Sdn Bhd is the in a diversified portfolio of equities and practices.We will continue to offer more ESG- investment manager. debt instruments issued by companies focused funds that will align with the United across Asia (excluding Japan) region that Nations (UN) Sustainable Development The UiAIF is available for subscription comply with Shariah principles and adopt Goals so that together with our partners and at selected distributors nationwide. For environmental, social and governance investors, we will forge a sustainable future more information, please visit www. (ESG) considerations into their business for all,”she added. uobam.com.my. models and practices. With sustainable investing becoming a *The facts and views expressed are solely As both Shariah principles and major force across global financial markets, that of the author and do not necessarily sustainable investing promote governance UOB Asset Management is committed to reflect that of the editorial board. Please stewardship and value creation, combining providing sustainable investment solutions consult your financial professional if you want these approaches will create a stronger to creating long-term returns for investors to make any investment decision. TI
14 ISSUE 103 | MAR 2021 THE ISKANDARIAN PLAY 4 Ways to Not Let Light Pollution IAffect Ust is thanks to the invention of electronic Crossword Puzzle light bulbs and Light Emitting Diodes other ecology around you. Motion sensor- (LEDs) advancement of it in the recent activated lights are great to avoid wastage Interactive Crossword Puzzle! years that humans could manoeuvre the from possible, or forgotten to switch off the Hints are in the articles. world at night much effectively. lights situation. Take up the challenge! However, everything that is man- If You Must Use Outdoor Lights/Lamps CLICK TO PLAY TAKE made comes with its own consequences. RESPONSIBILITIES According to Jari Lyytimäki from Finnish Cover the top of the lights/lamps so DOODLE Environment Institute in Global Sustainable it targets only the sides and not upwards, AND STOP Development Report (GSDR) 2015, the rapid to the sky. Never use glaring lights LITERRING! increase use of new lighting technologies, like spotlights as it penetrates the sky in particular LED may either increase or and mimics the daylight, contributing every month The Iskandarian reduce disturbing and ecologically harmful disturbance to light pollution. shares what you should outdoor night-time light pollution. Use the Correct Bulbs and should not be doing in Light pollution is a novel environmental Are you using eco-friendly LED bulbs? If your communities ! issue widely affecting ecosystems, human cultures, societies, health and you are, great but let’s make it even better well-being of individuals. For example, by using warm lights, as it saves more on a BBC documentary has captured the energy and reduces illumination. Use bulbs moment of freshly-hatched baby turtles of CCT < 3,000 K, S/P ratio < 1.2 to minimise in Terengganu that got confused with blue emission. nearby artificial lights to moon reflection on the sea and ended up making their way LetYour Local Leaders Know About Light to the town instead of the sea. Pollution Excessive exposure of light in the night Tucson, Arizona in the US has disturbs a human’s circadian rhythm that improved the quality of their city’s night controls our body clock that determines sky by implementing a massive policy that when we should rest and be energised or reduced its light pollution greatly by 2019. stay awake. Originally, in 2012, the city leaders issued an outdoor lighting order requiring fully What can we do to minimise light shielded lighting and limiting the total light pollution? Here are some simple, do-able produced at night, in particular in natural solutions: areas and areas near astronomy sites. Optimise the Use of Bulbs Are you ready to save the dark night sky by reducing light pollution? Let us know if Use optimum amount of bulbs to light you’ve been aware of this or have extra tips up your home and surrounding areas. to save the night. Check out on the level of This will help conserve the energy and light pollution in your city via https://www. limit the extent of light from disturbing lightpollutionmap.info/ - by Norfy Shafeq TI What’s For Tea? Craving something savoury? Try baking these Saba Pastry Muffins that is packed with Omega 3 goodness which is easy to prepare for the family. Method Roll out store-bought puff pastry dough, use a bowl to cut out circles, place in a muffin pan then fill with Ayam Brand Chilli Saba or Ayam Brand Saba Mayo, topped with sweet corn, sliced green chilli and green onion. Bake until golden brown, and it is ready to serve. Prep time: 10 minutes Cooking Time: 20 minutes. Serving: 12 pax. Saba Pastry Muffin All good afternoon tea deserves top-notch tea or coffee but how about serving hot chocolate instead? With unpredictable rainy weather, a steaming cup of goodness will surely win anyone’s heart like a warm hug in a mug! Method Continue the tradition but make it healthier with a unique East meets West spin with Loco for Cacao. Combine 80ml of Ayam Brand Coconut Super Light with hot chocolate powder of your choice, 20ml of vanilla syrup and 10ml of cinnamon syrup. Be extra and garnish with toasted coconut. Prep time: 5 minutes Cooking Time: 5 minutes. Serving: 4 pax. Loco for Cacao T ea-break or in a more sophisticated world known as the afternoon tea is something we Malaysians look forward to. Apart from a having a scrumptious lunch, come late afternoon, the tummy starts growling and our mind wanders on what to have for tea. In trying to stay safe at home, here are some recipe ideas courtesy of Ayam Brand Malaysia using their products and other easily available ingredients in your pantry. Have a go and tell us how it turned out. For more quick and easy delicious recipes from Ayam Brand, browse through https://www.ayambrand.com.my/recipe/recipes-video.html. Happy exploring and cooking! TI
15 The Iskandarian ISSUE 103 | MAR 2021 Mah Sing Group Berhad (Mah PROPERTY INSIGHT Sing) prepared a series of @home Virtual Chinese New Year Open House Events via its Facebook platform, encouraging 18 everyone to celebrate the auspicious Year of the Ox at ”Home With Mah Sing” pg 16 PROPERTY RESIDENTIAL PROJECTS APARTMENTS VILLAS CONDOMINIUMS OFFICE/RETAILSPACE Skymind Innovation City to accelerate the state’s digital endeavour pg 16 Sunway RTS benefiting Read this article on Property’s the property our website revamped city market in Johor Connect with us on Facebook
16 ISSUE 103 | MAR 2021 THE ISKANDARIAN PROPERTY Skymind Innovation City to Accelerate Ox-picious New Year with Mah Sing’s Virtual the State’s Digital Endeavour CNY Open House S kymind, a global leader in AI technology, plans to bring its global experience and to generate considerable economic impact. change the landscape of cities in Malaysia We will bring components that we have built globally over to Malaysia and eventually to by developing Skymind Innovation City. the region, localising the innovation to better Skymind Innovation City’s primary focus is to suit the regional’s ecosystem,” said Shawn Tan, tour of our project.” Mah Sing’s Meridin East’s latest boost the economic and living standards of a city Group Chief Executive Officer, Skymind Global project, Acacia Double-storey using AI innovation components. Limited. Link Homes has been receiving overwhelming response from the Skymind focuses on empowering companies Eow Wan Lin, Managing Director of Skymind public. Its 22’x70’ land size is larger to develop their own AI applications Future Cities said, “Skymind Innovation City than most of the products offered aims to become one of the top cities in Malaysia in the market, making it perfect for multi-generational living. Acacia By providing companies with tools to be and Southeast Asia. To ensure the success of also comes with its own private park, enabling residents to carry out their innovators in their industry as well as build a this vision, we are working closely with several recreational activities with a peace of mind. stronger AI ecosystem. Currently, more than 350 strategic partners such as IIB Ventures.” Meridin East township consists of Fortune 500 companies globally use Skymind In Line with State’s Digital Agenda Prizes worth up to RM2,800 of more than 500 acres of lush technologies including IBM, Huawei and NASA. greenery, and it comes with two Aat “Home With Mah Sing” 9-acre lakes with family parks, 16km At the Digital Fujian (Changle) Industrial Park “Skymind Innovation City is aligned with s one of the leading jogging & cycling track, children’s property developers in playground, basketball court, and in Fujian Province, China, Skymind has deployed Johor state’s Digital Agenda and complements Malaysia, Mah Sing Group various family-friendly facilities. From Berhad (Mah Sing) had only RM1,150 per month, you can its AI innovation components. The emergence Medini with diversity of innovation programmes recently prepared a series of Virtual now own a home in a community Chinese New Year Open House perfect for the well-being of your of components of Skymind Innovation has to provide participating companies a vibrant Events via its Facebook platform, family. encouraging everyone to celebrate accelerated and made way for a self-sustaining ecosystem for growth, to foster innovation and this auspicious Year of the Ox at In the southern region alone, “Home With Mah Sing”. Mah Sing Group has well established innovation ecosystem in the sector, where talents entrepreneurship as Johor Digital Hub and the themselves with 7 developments The audiences who registered for which includes landed residential, are educated and upskilled under Skymind’s location for Digital Innovation, emerging tech the programme not only received a high rise residential, commercial, free zodiac report but also stood a retail, and industrial properties. Talent Development programmes and AI and digital talent development,” says Zulfiqar chance to win a grand prize worth Focusing on developing affordable RM2,800. properties, Mah Sing’s developments companies have joined the sector and developed Zainuddin, the Managing Director of IIB Ventures have always been well received by Mah Sing’s Chief Operating the market. For more information, their digital innovation bases. Sdn Bhd, a subsidiary of Iskandar Investment Officer, Benjamin Ong said, please call 07 291 3230. TI “During this MCO period, we hope How Skymind Cultivates AI Skills Berhad. that the public will stay at home Apart from IIBV, Skymind will be collaborating yet enjoy what Mah Sing prepares for them at the comfort of their Skymind deployed its AI Innovation elements with more strategic partners locally and globally own homes including a virtual in Digital Fujian in 2018. Thousands of AI skills to innovate in Skymind Innovation City. have been trained by the ecosystem, incubating Skymind Innovation City will focus on three more than a hundred start-up firms. Skymind main hubs namely; the Talent Hub for AI Talent has drawn local and international enterprises to Development, The Innovation Hub for enabling set up their own AI R&D bases to future proof technology and AI Innovators and the Regional their businesses. The growth in land values that R&D Hub for research and development of AI Skymind and the ecosystem has increased more applications. than four-fold since its inception. To understand more about the Skymind “We create value for cities’ development, Innovation City at Iskandar, please visit www. and we have successfully done so in Digital skymind.city or www.youtube.com/channel/ Fujian. It is a fully functional AI City that is able UCeAgQlcxhFysVtHGT77ohQQ. - by Norfy Shafeq TI How Will RTS Impact the Property Market? – Part 3 RTS Benefiting the Property and SKS Pavillion. Others which attract demand from various such as JB City Square, JBCC Iskandar Puteri, Tampoi, Skudai, Market in Johor will see increased demand groups i.e. Malaysians working Komtar, R&F Mall and Galleria Tebrau and Ulu Tiram as well as include those along Jalan Bukit in Singapore, Singaporeans Kotaraya will see increased Pasir Gudang. What is important T he RTS Link is expected Meldrum like R&F Princess capitalising the relatively lower footfalls as many passengers is the availability of connecting to act as a stimulant Cove Residences, Skysuites, Sky cost of living in JB and investors. alighting from the trains modes of transportation such of sorts to spur Habitat and V-Summerplace. are expected to shop here. as taxis, stage and shuttle more interest in the Houses and housing lands Coronation Square when buses and e-hailing vehicles Johor Bahru property market. Connectivity between Johor nearby are likely to be acquired completed will also gain to these destinations within Properties within a radius of 5 and Singapore will be enhanced. and rezoned for commercial use. traction. a reasonable time and cost. km from the station will attract The “effective distance” between Imminently are Kim Teng Park In preparation of all these a lot of attention from investors. the two countries will be and Serene Park which are in Purpose-built offices are demands, the BRT will be rolled Residential houses including shortened once the congestion the immediate neighbourhoods. likely to benefit with relocation out by IRDA connecting this service apartments have actually issue is resolved. A few hours The success of the RTS Link will of offices to spaces near major transportation hub to all seen better pick-up around the trip via the existing causeway in the long run necessitate an the station. It would not be the outlier areas. TI proposed station site since the during the peak hour will urban renewal exercise within unrealistic to anticipate some last 2 years. Those that have become as short as 3.6 minutes. the CBD of JB. This is in line with office demand from Singapore Sr Samuel Tan enjoyed such effects include Tri the transformation plan of the to JB. The COVID-19 pandemic Executive Director Towers, Twin Towers, Suasana Residential developments in CBD mooted by IRDA. has caused many to see the need KGV International Property JB especially in the city centre to decentralise their activities within close proximity will Commercial developments within a particular locality. With Consultants such as retail and office will get improved connectivity, certain The layout for RTS Link project - Picture courtesy of MRT Corp a boost in demand as a result office works can be relocated of better connectivity. Some from a more costly Singapore to a companies in the republic down cheaper city like JB. Buildings that south might set up businesses will gain from this phenomenon in JB to capitalise on its lower include JB City Square, JBCC cost base once the nightmarish Kotaraya, Menara Landmarks and congestion on the causeway is offices to be completed within resolved. Nevertheless, other Coronation Square. factors such as government policies and socio-econ-political With improved last mile dynamics will come into play in connectivity, the spillover attracting these businesses. effects will be felt in the other satellite and suburban areas in Shopping centres nearby
17 ISSUE 103 | MAR 2021 THE ISKANDARIAN PROPERTY Sunway Property Disperse Its Community Development Expertise at Sunway City Iskandar Puteri Ma s t e r Community with the community. 10 followed by Sunway Big acres solar and farm beside will build a sustainable Retail and Offices, and has Developer, The self-sustaining Box, the first retail hybrid the XPARK. community and address 13-storey square tower Sunway park; XPARK Sunway City food security through style with 288 rooms. Property, got down to integrated city consists of Iskandar Puteri, the biggest The development is every day innovations. Equipped with an infinity 2021 with major plans of six precincts, namely The adventure sports; Sunway located at Medini, Iskandar pool, gym, all-day Dining / its own beginning with Lakeview, The Capital, The Emerald Boulevard 88 and Puteri and connected to SJK (C) Cheah Fah Coffee House, roof garden the announcement of Parkview, The Riverside, Sunway Citrine Hub. Johor Bahru city and is just with panoramic vistas, its revamped township The Seafront and The 5km away from the Tuas Comprising of 2 the layout is creative with – Sunway City Iskandar Marketplace. Each precinct Sunway City Iskandar Checkpoint. With potential academic blocks, the unique use of space and Puteri, Johor, one of the offers a wide range of Puteri offers an excellent livability, Sunway ’s school has a total of innovation. major self-sustaining amenities and facilities architecture balanced community here will have 24 classrooms with integrated city and such as a theme park, with the beauty of a population of 140,000 learning amenities and Sunway Maple Residence community growth for all retail malls, education hub, nature, encompassing people. facilities such as science to call home. medical city, and many lab, computer lab, arts Duo living lifestyle more. 40% greenery within Developments Underway: room, life skills workshop, concept and multi- Sunway Property the development. The Solar and farm football field and indoor generational living with encourages the community Sunway City Iskandar development is one of badminton and basketball affordable price range of Sunway City Iskandar Puteri also concentrates on the prime locations for Aligning as per the courts. It also features a makes it suitable for Puteri to live every dream, education, entertainment, property-buyers in the Sustainable Development fully covered, high roof, first time home buyers. learn without limits, receive recreation and leisure Southern region where the Goals (SDGs), the activities open space concourse Launching in 2021, there work-life balance and play amenities for its city meets nature. here includes an indoor located at the heart of the is no price restriction for beyond imagination by homebuyers. The first café, semi-indoor golf, school. Slated to open in foreigners. cultivating a family-like amenity development that Rebranding Sunway indoor hydroponic and January 2022. community while being the group undertook for City Iskandar Puteri is outdoor farming where For more information determined to acquire this township is the Sunway only just the beginning visitors are able to purchase Sunway Hotel Big Box on living your best life many more achievements International School, of the grand plan with an their ticket and pluck their in Sunway City Iskandar along the way to be shared offering Canadian (Ontario) undergoing research and own vegetables which Completing in 2021, Puteri, please visit www. School Curriculum from development to set up 9.7 the hotel is integrated sunwaycityiskandarputeri. kindergarteners to Grade with Sunway Big Box com. TI
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