THE ISKANDARIAN MAY ISSUE

Iskandar KDN : PP19356/08/2018(034949) | Singapore MICA : MCI (P) 079/12/2019 Malaysia’s Official Newspaper ItShKe ANDARIAN is an effort by ISSUE 93 | MAY 2020 | WWW.THEISKANDARIAN.COM True Soul Media PLT & Iskandar Regional Housing Accumulating Monthly Drill Development Loan Wealth Authority (IRDA) with Cheryl Lim Deferment Dealing with the Pei Shi from Breathing Unknown Right Page 20 AME Development Page 14 Sdn Bhd Late diagnosis of lung cancer results in higher Page 5 mortality rate Page 12 Take Me To: A Childhood Cancer Project have been in touch with closely since Ever since the COVID-19 pandemic the beginning of their project - Hospital hit the whole wide world early 2020, Sultanah Aminah in Johor, Hospital we’ve all underwent lockdowns and Kuala Lumpur and Hospital Sultanah Nur adapted to the new normal way Zahirah in Terengganu. of living by practising social distancing. However, during the lockdown period, TMT is still raising funds to ensure getting supplies became difficult for that supplies are enough monthly and some, even for hospitals that housed not interested parties may get in touch only those who are suffering from the with them at www.facebook.com/ coronavirus disease but also their other achildhoodcancerproject/ or donate through warded patients, especially those with SimplyGiving https://www.simplygiving. terminal illnesses. com/appeal/childcancersupportpackage - by Norfy Shafeq TI Having this thought in mind, ‘Take Me To: A Childhood Cancer Project (TMT)’, a nonprofit project that provides weeklong, cost-free vacation to families with children suffering from the last stages of terminal cancer; an effort made come true by a 14 year old Marius Madsen, also known as ‘Abang Lego’, started raising funds through Facebook and connected with SimplyGiving website since February to provide care packages to children warded in hospitals. Huggies Malaysia joined hands with TMT and all care packages were distributed to the Oncology Paediatric Wards at 3 main hospitals that TMT Menteri Besar Datuk Hasni Brings Hope to Johorians T he Johor state government has government-appointed assistance were being Coming Back from Pic by - Kyaizee Mohd announced that it representatives must first carried out by agents Singapore? will be providing identify target groups and appointed by the state Page either RM250 or RM500 in complete forms on their government, including 4 one-off assistance to those behalf. assemblymen, local councils who do not qualify for and district officers. existing welfare schemes The forms are then like BPN or Bantuan Sara keyed into the e-Ihsan “We will help those from Hidup under its Bantuan Johor system for processing the M40 group and not just Ihsan Johor scheme. before the money can be focus on the B40 group,”said released and electronically Menteri Besar Datuk Hasni The aid distribution is a transferred to qualified Mohammad during a live seven-step process where applicants. conference on Facebook. - by Edey Suresh TI Applications for the www.facebook.com/theiskandarian @theISKANDARIAN www.linkedin.com/company/theiskandarian/ www.theiskandarian.com

02 ISSUE 93 | MAY 2020 THE ISKANDARIAN NEWS Key Hotspots Undergo Sanitation SEND LETTERS Preventive measures joined in the operation, briefing OR INQUIRIES and explaining on the sanitation TO at the public market process to the contractors when they disinfect public interest facebook.com/theiskandarian and the Larkin Central places such as the Larkin Sentral [email protected] Bus Station, the market and the www.theiskandarian.com Bus Terminal surroundings from time to time to ensure it is always clean and Our Friends Johor Bahru City Council safe for patrons. (MBJB) in conjunction with the Fire and Rescue Disinfecting Larkin Public Market On a normal given day, both Department, as well as the Larkin Public Market and Johor Bahru Health Department Larkin Assemblyman. were done as per the Ministry Larkin Central Bus Terminal and Larkin Sentral Property Bhd The operation which involved of Health’s (MOH) public place are usually very crowded has executed decontamination sanitation guidelines. 40 service with patrons and passengers; process at the Larkin Public 90 members had covered the contractors, management therefore, sanitation process is Market (Pasar Awam) and Larkin Larkin Sentral area to disinfect representatives and Larkin highly welcome. Central Bus Terminal on 6th surfaces that are potentially Sentral Waqaf Brigade also April 2020 as one of the efforts prone to contamination, and As of 5th April 2020, 51 to prevent further COVID-19 mosques, 42 prayer rooms, 5 outbreak in the state. public markets (daily basis), 5 public parks, 19 bridges and 255 Present on the sanitising bus stops have been sanitised day was Mohd Izhar Ahmad, by MBJB. The disinfecting works Chairman of State Investment, will be carried on continuously to Entrepreneur Development, ensure the safety and wellbeing Cooperative and Human of Johor Bahru city and its Resources Committee and the residents. - by Norfy Shafeq TI Gleneagles Social Heroes after the MCO period as well. COVID-19 The report aims to create awareness as MEDINI Ground Report well as the financial impact undertaken from “In The Arms Of One Who Cares” Social Hero Foundation’s (SHF) the NGOs and volunteers. initiative Iskandar Malaysia Social Hero Awards (IMSHA), with their “Our winners have done phenomenal Dry food being handed out to Winners Network of around 60 Non- work during the MCO period. Not only have underprivileged families governmental organisations (NGOs) and they worked hand-in-hand with government 60 Non-governmental individuals (NGIs), bodies to provide much-needed aid, they Volunteers helping to sew PPEs for the quickly saw many of their Hero organisations have also played a critical role in closing the frontliners and individuals from the IMSHA Winners gap of disparity by collaborating effectively Network mobilising aid to help disadvantaged with each other. The synergy and pooled communities such as the poor, the stateless, resources has enabled them to serve the the homeless and refugees in the city. needs of those who may otherwise have been left in destitute,” said Thanam Visvanathan– The aid rendered is in response to the Suresh, Chairman of IMSHA. Nationwide Movement Control Order (MCO) from the 18th of March in an effort to curb the The report also provides a moving forward spread of the COVID-19 pandemic. strategy in the form of a Humanitarian Response Plan. The plan proposes a collective intelligence The foundation has published their first approach with data sharing and a Support Fund report on the work being carried out by the to raise finances to address immediate needs. heroes for the first and second phase of the MCO from the 18th of March till the 10th of The United Nations Sustainable April 2020. There will be a follow up report Development Goals (SDGs) have been included in this awareness report to emphasise the need for purposeful partnerships. The report is available at their Facebook page at www.facebook.com/socialheroawards - by The Iskandarian 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 93 | MAY 2020 THE ISKANDARIAN NEWS Red Crescent Sends Medical Aid T he Malaysian Red Crescent Society (MRCS) has donated a will receive 1 ventilator worth RM49,500, 1 ventilator and personal protective carton of N95 masks and protective gowns, equipment (PPE) to Hospital 2 cartons of gloves and protective masks Enche’ Besar Hajjah Khalsom in Kluang, and 500 units of face shields to be used by Johor in aid of COVID-19 response through its medical staff for their protection as they the #responsMALAYSIA initiative. man the front lines. HH Tunku Temenggong of Johor, Also present during the handover Tunku Idris Iskandar Al-Haj Ibni Sultan ceremony were MRCS Deputy Chairman Ibrahim, who is also the Chairman of the of the National Committee for Community MCRS National Committee for Community Services and Health, Dato’Hj. Mohd Rashidi Services and Health, graced the handover Mohd. Nor, and MRCS Secretary General, ceremony of the ventilator and PPEs to the Dato’ Sayed Rahman Sayed Mohd. hospital’s director, Dr. Hjh. Azura Abu Bakar. Prior to this presentation, the National The medical items worth RM70,000 Committee had also donated a ventilator were channeled through the MRCS’s to Hospital Sultanah Aminah, Johor Bahru #responsMalaysia initiative - a movement together with various PPEs to the tune of to gather corporations, NGOs and RM75,000.00. communities to come together to participate in a coordinated and For general information and enquiries meaningful way to alleviate the devastating on #responsMALAYSIA, please call Karl Dass effects of COVID-19. Reddy at +6019-645 2774 or Jaya Maruthan (+6013-354 0097). Alternatively, visit www. Hospital Enche’ Besar Hajjah Khalsom responsmalaysia.com for more details. - by The Iskandarian TI HH Tunku Idris Iskandar (middle) at the handover ceremony (Pic credit: Royal Press Office) Aid from Health Minister, Dr Adham Baba Brothers (right) with Dr Ng Kim Fong in Arms Sultan Ismail JB, Hospital Kluang, other In the fight against the COVID-19 hospitals in JB, the Batu Pahat district, pandemic, Persatuan Doktor-Doktor Royal Police of Malaysia (PDRM), Johor Johor (PDDJ) stepped in to provide aid Bahru Public Health Laboratory (MKAJB), to their fellow frontliners by supplying Johor Bahru District Health Office (PKDJB), much-needed PPEs to various hospitals Kluang Prison, Muar district, Kulai district in Johor. and Melaka. The contributions include 57,500 pair The medical supplies donations were of gloves, 56,677 N95 face masks, 30,100 handed by PDDJ’s President, Dr Ng Kim face masks, 21,634 face shields, 2915 Fong, to the Director of Johor Health isolation gowns, 1,838 boot covers and Department, Dr Aman bin Rabu and more. Medical equipment donations were also inspected by Health Minister, in the form of 6 automatic beds, 42 Dr Adham Baba. intubation box, 20 blood pressure set, 2 cardiac tables and 2 emergency trolleys Interested parties could help were also handed over. Apart from that, contribute to aid the healthcare workers 4300 raw materials were ready for the through PDDJ’s at www.facebook.com/ volunteers from the association to be PersatuanDoktor2Johor/ - by Norfy made into PPEs. Shafeq TI As of 24th April, PDDJ managed to donate 40 different categories of supplies to 12 different places all over Johor and even extended as far as Melaka. Benefactors of the donation includes Hospital Sultanah Aminah JB, Hospital

04 ISSUE 93 | MAY 2020 THE ISKANDARIAN NEWS Welcome to the Coming Back New World of Learning from Singapore? Gather all your the children but parents too as online in real time like how they Malaysians who want Yaakob said during his live press we’re now stuck in a situation of would if the child was taught in to come back from conference broadcast that a gadgets and apps at juggling between WFH, chores, school. Perhaps, synchronous Singapore will need maximum of 400 Malaysians will cooking and teaching. I dare say lesson delivery (where students an entry permit from be allowed to return home from fingertips and your we are superheroes too wearing and teachers are required to be the Malaysian High Commission in Singapore every day through the many different hats and keeping engaged on the same task at the the island republic. Johor Causeway and Malaysia- sanity too! sane at the same time! So you same time) would be of greater Singapore Second-Link to avoid think, well it can’t be that bad help to us but it may be difficult Johor health and environment congestion at entry points. If you are a WFH (work right? I just need to follow the to be achieved virtually when the Exco R. Vidyananthan said those home home) parent with millions of instructions thrown at learners are younger children in applying for the permit need “The other SOPs are as homeschooling children due me opening the various gadgets either kindergarten or early key to provide their name, identity per usual, where Malaysians to the continuous lockdown and apps – easy peasy! That’s stages (primary). card number, passport number, returning will have to undergo the we’re facing; no thanks to Mr. where you’re wrong. I discovered departure date and documents mandatory quarantine period at C, continue reading and yes, the hard way that my child needs Many say – welcome to the such as a copy of their working the designated quarantine centres welcome to my world! assistance as the subjects he was new normal of learning. pass, long-term pass, permanent for 14 days,” he said. comfortably learning in school resident pass or students pass. So, a little bird told me that had to end abruptly because of Though it is wonderful that In Singapore, the circuit WFH, homeschooling, e-learning the naughty virus; so that only children’s learning journey “All of the documents must breaker has been extended until and so on is here to stay for a meant one thing – we had to is not disrupted thanks to be emailed to the Malaysian High 1st June - by The Iskandarian TI little while to keep us safe from take over the teaching process so technology, but do we want Commissioner in Singapore at the deadly virus that we’re all so the child can understand it first, this sort of new normal to stay [email protected] at least two days Meal served at one of the familiar now like a daily mantra then set about on completing in the long run without teachers before the date they plan to travel quarantine centre (yes, no prizes for guessing)! For the tasks as instructed by the and classmates by their side, back to Malaysia. The entry permit a person who is very familiar teacher/s. physically? I don’t for sure. will be emailed to them and they with WFH situation, it’s no secret However, the one thing this will need to show the document of the few challenges we face Remote Virtual Learning crisis has taught me is to adapt to Malaysian Immigration officers daily managing between home Environment, communicating to changes and we’ll come out when entering the country,” he and work and keeping a steady to friends and teachers via stronger than before, including said in a statement on the 26th of “separate” lives under one roof. other online platforms has now our young ones being more April. What seemed like a piece of cake become the child’s best friend. prepared to whatever else the to handle started to crumble But it seems a little taxing when world would face in the future. On the same day, Senior when children are thrown into parents are now main subject - by Priya Manikam TI Minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri our lives – worst if they are teachers, language teachers, toddlers or school-goers who are PE master, Music maestro, Art *The views expressed are Health Dept: now stuck in a unique situation of teachers and so on with only opinions of the writer and do not Drive Thru Meds learning from home with parents a little help from the teachers necessarily reflect the stand of the Adjusting to the MCO, as their teachers! who are not fully engaged newspaper’s owners and editorial those with chronic the government will bear the board. illnesses who require costs until 30th June,” he added. It is a nightmare not only to their medication can The locations in Johor Bahru are at Mahmoodiah Health get them through safe measures Clinic, Sultan Ismail Health put in place by the Johor state Clinic, Taman Universiti Health government. Clinic and Persiaran Tanjung in Johor health and environment Tampoi Medical Supplies Centre. Exco R. Vidyananthan said to In Kulai, it is at Kulai Besar Health enable medication to be easily Clinic, in Segamat at Segamat dispensed to patients, the Hospital and Segamat Health state health department had Clinic, in Batu Pahat at Sultanah initiated value-added services Nora Ismail Hospital, in Muar such as sending them via post at Sultanah Fatimah Hospital and setting up drive-through and Maharani Health Clinic pharmacies. while in Kota Tinggi it is at Sg “For those requesting for Rengit Health Clinic. - by The medication to be sent via post, Iskandarian TI Goods Supply and Prices Checked at 2772 Premises State Domestic Trade supply of basic essential items. Based on the ministry’s inspection, Officers were mobilised to inspect the In addition to monitoring the there were no price hikes reported and availability of goods and ensure no and Consumer Affairs all businesses adhered to the rules and price hikes were found supply of controlled goods such as regulation imposed. Ministry (KPDNHEP) is sugar, cooking oil and wheat flour, the inspection also looked into basic The ministry however urged the public keeping a watchful eye necessities such as dry goods, fresh to channel information or complaints on goods, ready-made goods, drinks and lack of supply or price increase throughout A s of 28th April, 2772 premises other essentials. the MCO to https://eaduan.kpdnhep.gov. were checked by the State my, call 1-800-886-800 or email e-aduan@ Domestic Trade and Consumer Supply of items including rice, bread, kpdnhep.gov.my Affairs Ministry (KPDNHEP) milk powder, sardines, cookies, instant comprising of 2335 grocers and noodles, fresh chicken, eggs, coffee, tea, The public can also use the Ez Adu supermarkets, 283 wholesalers and 85 vegetables, face mask, hand sanitiser, KPDNHEP app, call 03-8882 6088/6245 factories to ensure there is adequate toilet paper, diapers, medicine among or WhatsApp 019-279 4317. - by Edey others were inspected. Suresh TI

05 ISSUE 93 | MAY 2020 THE ISKANDARIAN NEWS M ONTHLY D RILL Cheryl Lim Pei Shi is the Director of Property Development Division Director at AME Development Sdn Bhd, where her primary role includes sales EXCLUSIVE and marketing strategic planning, conducting presentations, planning and organising events in relation to marketing and publicity Cheryl Lim Pei Shi launches, organising site tours and exhibitions, and submitting the necessary information for various awards and accolades Director of Property for the property development division. She is also involved in Development Division at negotiating commercial terms including pricing and technical AME Development Sdn Bhd specifications and liaising with the project management teams on the completion and delivery of properties. Cheryl joined AME Development as a Marketing Administration Executive in August 2011 and was promoted to the position of Assistant Marketing Manager in March 2012, before being appointed as the Marketing Director in February 2013. In October 2018, Cheryl was appointed as the Alternate Director on the Board of AME Elite Consortium Berhad, the investing holding company of AME Development Sdn Bhd. AME Elite is listed on the Main Market of Bursa Malaysia Securities Berhad. AME Elite Consortium Bhd (which AME work environment. We started with i-Park@ design, nature, as well as environmental World Silver Winner in Industrial Category Indahpura in 2011, which quickly gained sustainability. The buildings at our industrial at the prestigious 2019 FIABCI World Prix development is a part of) was public listed popularity and won multiple awards due park are not only situated amongst lush d’Excellence Awards, Malaysia Property to its innovativeness. Encouraged by its greeneries and a host of lifestyle amenities, Award 2018 (Industrial Category) by FIABCI- last year. Share with us the journey of a overwhelming success, we set out to but also are designed based on green Malaysia, Malaysia’s Responsible Developer: develop i-Park@Senai Airport City in 2017, building concepts with environmentally Building Sustainable Development Award Johor-based company achieving this proud as we sought to continue setting new friendly features such as rain water 2018 by Edge Property and Platinum benchmarks among Malaysia’s industrial harvesting and emissions monitoring. Winner for “Most Conducive Workplace” feat parks. for 2016/2017 by The Iskandar Malaysia Our journey in the past 25 years has been As the modern workforce strives Accolades. nothing short of exhilarating! We have not All the features we have invested for a balance between work, lifestyle, and only extended the breadth of our scope of in go beyond the needs of next- sustainability, we also believe that our i-Parks What’s in the pipeline for 2020 and 2021? services, but more importantly emerged generation enterprises from Malaysia and are best positioned to enable our global We strive to continuously bring in new to be the preferred industrial space internationally. Our typical clientele desire customers to attract the best of talents. innovations and set new benchmarks in solutions provider for many domestic and a premier address that not only meets their our industrial parks in becoming a world- international companies through our i-Park latest industrial space requirements for long With share prices fluctuating due to the class leader in this space. industrial parks. term business growth, but also attracts the COVID-19 virus outbreak, is there a modern workforce who desires to immerse recovery plan being put together by your Having built considerable successes In 1995, we provided design-and-build themselves in the best of work, play, and team? with our existing i-Parks, we are now for industrial spaces as a main contractor lifestyle balance. Rather than worrying about our share raising the bar with Phase 3 of i-Park@Senai for local and international clients. We paid prices which is largely reflective of Airport City. The latest phase offers the close attention to our clients’ industry- The attractive amenities at our i-Parks the regional markets apart from Bursa same exemplary service to our clients, but specific requirements, and witnessed them include a clubhouse, gymnasium, swimming Malaysia, our core focus at this critical stands out from its predecessors with new undergoing the process of setting up and pool, outdoor sport facilities, jogging juncture would be to ensure that the detached factory designs and enhanced settling in, including the tedium and hassle track, cycling lanes, comfortable and well- entire Group is engaging with customers range of amenities. of administrative regulatory paperwork, managed i-Stay workers’ accommodation, and employees in a proactive manner to liaison with authorities and frequently versatile offices and a commercial hub. maintain a safe and secure environment We would also expand our existing delayed timelines. for all. i-Parks in Johor by acquiring new landbanks You have managed to secure a mix of sectors in their vicinities, just as we did for Phase 3 This sparked the idea of developing a to be based at i-Park, what’s your secret amid In the mid-term we will still execute our of i-Park@Senai Airport City, and recently well-managed full-service industrial park challenging markets? growth strategies, such as expanding our with Plot 108 at i-Park@Indahpura. We where customers could collaborate with The key component is that we take the i-Parks not only within Johor but also to also aim to bring the i-Park brand beyond an experienced designer-and-builder to time to listen to our customers’ unique various parts of Peninsular Malaysia, as well Johor and into various parts of Peninsular construct the building according to specific requirements. While we have deep as increasing sales and marketing activities Malaysia, and are currently working on requirements, benefit from the installed understanding of the industrial space in Malaysia and internationally to grow our identifying suitable landbanks in notable utilities infrastructure, and leverage on and business requirements across many client base. areas such as the Klang Valley and other our regulatory network with authorities to industries, our ability to cater to their Of course, apart from enhancing key industrial hubs. commence operations on time. customised requirements and provide a our business fundamentals, having a solution places us in a unique position to good communications plan to guide our What do you do in your free time? Today, we have succeeded in building offer our clients the best level of service interactions with existing and potential I enjoy taking part in various sports and three highly-regarded i-Parks, some of which quality, innovation, and execution. We take new investors is also important to share recreational activities sprouting from have even been recognised by international on the role of a friendly partner that strives price performance, and we would continue the flourishing i-Park community. My platforms like FIABCI World Prix due to our to ensure that they continue to succeed to engage in transparent and insightful favourites are yoga and rhythmic cycling, outstanding quality. We have also attracted and grow. communication with the investing public. which are reinvigorating after the end of a clients from various countries, such as busy workday. the United States, China, Japan, Germany, AME Development is known for synergising What are some of the notable awards United Kingdom, Switzerland, Singapore, nature and work. What motivated this received or CSR projects AME Development I am also interested in podcasts and and others. concept? is involved in? webinars in the areas of leadership and We believe that the modern workforce Over the years, i-Park@Indahpura and innovation as it helps me develop a stronger Tell us more about your award winning would thrive best in an environment i-Park@Senai Airport City developments skill set to lead our strategic marketing and that integrates the elements of modern have clinched numerous awards notably the planning team, so that the Group can reach i-Park the next heights. TI Our award-winning i-Parks combines a tranquil resort-concept with a gated and guarded industrial park to provide a soothing sanctuary amid natural surroundings for a wholesome and safe

06 The Iskandarian ISSUE 93 | MAY 2020 Advertisement

Mo vies Go on an adventure with Artemis Fowl!

The Iskandarian | WAVES Lifestyle MAY 2020 | Page 2 editor’s Music Updates note UMG Introduces blackbear Priya Manikam By Universal Music Singapore H [email protected] appy Labour Day from home the likes of Pharrell Williams and #5 at Top 40 radio and earning everyone! This is probably one of Linkin Park, and brought his top- platinum certification from the those rare moments where you don’t notch songwriting skills to Justin RIAA — eventually emerging as have to look forward to any public Bieber’s six-times-platinum single blackbear’s most successful smash holiday leaves as it is now granted to you on a “Boyfriend.” And in his unflinching since 2017’s double-platinum “do platter in the comfort of your homes to enjoy honesty about his own demons re mi.” TI a long weekend doing the stuff you please. and depression, blackbear creates For those who’ve been working hard juggling Since first crashing onto the a powerful sense of solidarity— between WFH, kids and chores, well sit back scene in the mid-2010s, ultimately moving forward with and think of something fun to do instead – multi-platinum-selling his longtime mission of “inspiring you deserve the break! singer/songwriter/producer everyone to be more unapologetic blackbear has continually turned about who they are.” Disney presents ‘Artemis Fowl’ this month heads and defied all expectation, – Descended from a long line of criminal effortlessly mixing his hedonistic Showing no signs of slowing masterminds, 12-year-old genius Artemis Fowl hell-raising and maniac humour down, blackbear recently joined in finds himself in a battle of strength against with deeply heartfelt emotion. a series of exciting collaborations, powerful, hidden race of fairies who may be including Marshmello’s epic 2019 behind his father’s disappearance. Hyper-creative and massively single “Tongue Tied” (also featuring prolific, he’s also collaborated with Yungblud). Additionally, he is set The beginning of the month is still the to return with a new body of work fasting season for the Muslims before it ends this year that pushes his brilliantly with Hari Raya celebrations by the fourth week warped artistry even further. of May. As we still face a unique situation, fret The first glimpse at his latest not as our hoteliers and the local bazaars have metamorphosis, the fantastically come up with buka puasa e-bazaar for you to zeitgeisty anthem “hot girl bummer” enjoy all your favourite goodies safely at home. dropped in August 2019, reaching Talk about technology! Fariz Jabba and Our travel plans may be halted for a while, but not our globetrotting minds. When the omarKENOBI Collaborate time is right for us to pack our bags and head somewhere, go on a magical culinary tour fTor the First Timeriple-threat Fariz Jabba resounding with self-assuredness.“We where you would not only feast with your collaborates with producer decided we weren’t going to think palate but your eyes too. and rapper omarKENOBI twice about how we felt when we for the first time on “Kalah”. wrote the lyrics, so the silly and witty As always, for those wishing to share their Following Fariz Jabba’s hit single lines in the song are my most honest fashion collection, travel tales, or like us to review your restaurant/hotel for a staycation, “Masa”, a track that shook his fans and thoughts,” confessed Fariz Jabba. drop me an e-mail at waves.lifestyle@gmail. com and be featured. For more news, do access garnered 2.5 million Spotify streams So is the chorus’ bold assertion. This www.theiskandarian.com and https://waves- lifestyle.com/ and almost 1.5 million YouTube confidence does not come unearned, May celebrates workers/employees, views, “Kalah” is poised to supersede but rather from an attitude the artiste mothers, teachers and Hari Raya too. The Iskandarian team would like to extend our the former’s success. In “Kalah”, the applies throughout his work and life: wishes to every celebrant out there. message is clear and the order is tall: “No matter how much life tries to Priya Fariz Jabba and omarKENOBI never knock you down, admitting defeat SEND LETTERS OR INQUIRIES TO lose. is not an option!” Fariz Jabba has not www.facebook.com/waveslifestyle With the release of “Masa”, Fariz and will never lose. artistic liberty. “What started out as a www.waves-lifestyle.com fun song for Fariz and I turned out to [email protected] Jabba began building his artistry omarKENOBI, who produced be something a lot bigger. Creating Waves Lifestyle ‘Kalah’ was one of those moments of beyond rap. The organic success of and raps on the song, created the pure unadulterated fun and I was so excited when I found out the release the single put doubts about Fariz beat for “Kalah” in his home studio was a go,”shared omarKENOBI.“Kalah” is the second solo release for rapper Jabba’s foray into singing to rest. with Fariz Jabba. The trap-inspired omarKENOBI, who has featured on singles by Sam Rui, Emir Hermono, “Kalah” moves further to fortify his hip hop track was fashioned from and Fauxe. artistic convictions: a chorus unfazed, his uninhibited and unapologetic The synth-driven track, which is built on the unabashed creativity of both rappers, will resonate with listeners for its honesty and candour - what you see is what you get, and what you get is a winning tune. Listen to ‘Kalah’: https://lnk.to/ KalahPremiere TI

The Iskandarian | WAVES Lifestyle MAY 2020 | Page 3 GAcetnioren:- Adventure Six Steps of 2R8etlehaMseayda2t0e2:0 Adaptation KDeirnencteotrh: Branagh JPuroddyuHcoefdflubyn:d , K enneth Branagh (Part 1) SCocrneoernMplcaPyhbeyrs:o n AJEexnnegkcuuinstsiMveorPeroGdourdcoerns,:Matthew Nothing is permanent. Life changes. EBoaisnedCoolnfe: r It always has. When changes appear JCFToaeasmrshdta:iGaraaSdhS,maawan,rdtL,JauNrdaoinMDzceoDnAocnnhonzeilel,, with drastically, it can pull us out of our comfort zones. This is where our D isney’s “Artemis Fowl,” based on the beloved him, and in doing so uncovers an ancient, underground mind steps in into a new territory. It can book by Eoin Colfer, is a fantastical, spellbinding civilisation — the amazingly advanced world of fairies. either gather information to move forward adventure that follows the journey of 12-year- Deducing that his father’s disappearance is somehow or it can go blank and not know what to do. old genius Artemis Fowl, a descendant of a connected to the secretive, reclusive fairy world, cunning Here, we may experience a certain degree long line of criminal masterminds, as he seeks to find Artemis concocts a dangerous plan — so dangerous of mental panic and this is what happened his father who has mysteriously disappeared. With the that he ultimately finds himself in a perilous war of to most Malaysians during the COVID-19 help of his loyal protector Butler, Artemis sets out to find wits with the all-powerful fairies. TI outbreak in the country. Source: The Walt Disney Company Malaysia When the government announced a Movement Control Order (MCO) on 18th March, most aspects of our social life had to undergo a drastic change. If we reflect on our social lives, it is commonly related to food, work, education and leisure. The first two are highly associated with our survival and that would explain the panic and chaos we experienced for the first few weeks of the MCO. But, at this point, are you still trying to cope with the drastic changes happening in your life? If you experience difficulties to cope with the situation regardless of family, work, learning or business; you may want to try these six steps of adaptation. Being humans, we have an inner strength to adapt to extreme changes. You can follow these six steps or find one that suits you. Step One - Stay Calm It is not as easy as we say it. When drastic changes happen in our lives, it affects the foundation and security that we have. The first response we would get is fear. Even though fear has its purpose, staying calm gives us the strength to measure our situation from all angles. Taking this step gives our body protection from panic and exhaustion. Step Two - Find Our Balance We certainly could not help but feel emotional with the changes. The emotions can be manifested in the form of anger, nervousness or panic. Finding our balance simply means not wasting so much energy on feelings. Even though expressing feelings is good, but to be drained by it is unnecessary. 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 MAY 2020 | Page 4 travel Cooking Class on a Holiday? Think beyond Thailand for cooking classes; for the world is like an oyster waiting for you to explore it By Priya Manikam under the guidance of a local expert. himself will accompany the group for a local The magnificent Machu Picchu in [email protected] meal at the brewery. Peru Compose Traditional Health Tonic in Isidro Fish Market to meet local Chef Gonzalo V acations that incorporate culture Indonesia Explore Croatia’s Vineyards and for a private cooking lesson where they will and culinary experiences have Countryside learn how to prepare a typical Peruvian meal grown in popularity in recent years, At Capella Ubud, resident Jamu Specialist, as well as the national drink, a Pisco Sour. with cooking classes and food- or ‘Mbok Jamu’ will guide guests through Embark on the unique culture of Croatia related activities providing opportunities for the complex medicine and fascinating and Slovenia, with trips that incorporate its Enjoy World-Class Cuisine in South Africa avid travellers to dig deep into a destination’s history, beginning with a trip through the bustling cities, scenic countryside and the As pioneers in low-impact luxury culture and flavours beyond the confines of rice paddies to a local fa rmers’ hut, where country’s varied local cuisine. Guests will sightseeing. guests will compose the celebrated health safari, Singita has phenomenal culinary tonic, using an ancient recipe which has Sample beer at Capella Breidenbacher programmes that showcase the heart However, travellers tend to associate been passed through the generations. Now Hof owf Africa and safari. Menus follow a cooking classes particularly with vacations a millennial health fix go-to, Jamu has been have once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to learn farm-to-table ethos and chefs use local, to Thailand, but there’s certainly more embedded in Indonesian life for centuries. the art of foraging for truffles from locals seasonal ingredients from the lodge’s on- than that on offer. As understanding a new and hear stories behind traditional Croatian culture is best through its food, here’s a list of Jamu is believed to have cuisine. Wine enthusiasts will also enjoy a Lunch Spread at Singita Serengeti captivating culinary experiences around the otherworldly healing powers private tour of the family-owned Kozlovic House in South Africa globe when the time is right to travel again! winery from one of the family members, The herbal medicine is made up of natural before tasting the delicious vintages. Food site vegetable gardens, nearby farmers Learn the Art of Soba Making in Japan ingredients, such as roots, bark, flowers, lovers can indulge in the freshest Croatian and small enterprises – Singita supports seeds and leaves, and is believed to have oysters in Ston before heading onto the the community as part of their 100-year Learn to make soba noodles in Japan otherworldly healing powers. Guests can take historical city of Dubrovnik. purpose, as well as ensure guests world- away a bottled version of their concoction to class cuisine. Alongside Singita’s food Curated and led by Walk Japan, the enjoy within three days. Experience a Feast in Lima offerings, guests will enjoy premier wine Kunisaki Retreat is a 7-day, 6-night guided Peru’s bustling capital Lima is fast from Singita’s extensive cellar, from South tour centred on the spiritual Kunisaki Sample Beer from the Finest Breweries in Africa and further afield TI Peninsula. Aside from immersing into Düsseldorf becoming the food capital of Latin America, Japanese culture of past and present, and it is home to an impressive selection venturing through ethereal scenery and At Capella Breidenbacher Hof, Düsseldorf, of Michelin-starred restaurants. Peruvian sleepy hamlets, travellers will also have the guests can embark on a tailor-made tour cooking combines traditional practices opportunity to dabble in the art of soba through the picturesque old town where with local ingredients, fusing together the making. Soba noodles have a long history in they are privy to an exclusive behind-the- country’s rich biodiversity and culture to Japan, and is part of washoku – traditional scenes of some of the city’s finest breweries. shape its food. Venture into the vibrant Japanese cuisine culminated across centuries Drinking ‘Altbier’, the indigenous beer Surquillo Market, one of Lima’s best food of cooking practices. During their stay in Fuki- of Düsseldorf, is arguably the city’s most markets, before journeying onto the San ji, guests will be taught to knead and roll out prominent tradition, harking back to over soba dough before cutting it into noodles 3,000 years ago. After the tour and a couple of samples along the way – the Master Brewer COAFLEEVNEDNATRS 1st May 10th May 16th May 23rd – 24th May MAY HAPPY LABOUR Happy Selamat DAY Teacher's Hari Raya 2020 Day Aidilfitri

11 ISSUE 93 | MAY 2020 THE ISKANDARIAN LIVE Tube Anemones: Flowers of the Sea… In MukimTanjung Kupang, the have two layers – the outer they prefer areas with strong Serina Rahman locals call them ‘bunga’ but ones are used to trap food, and currents as it helps them they are otherwise known as the inner ones pass the food catch their prey. This species is Serina Rahman is the co-founder tube anemones. They are not along to its mouth (the central also often used in aquariums of Kelab Alami and a Visiting actual anemones, but are in the cavity). These animals come in because of how weirdly Fellow at the ISEAS-Yusof Ishak sub-class Ceriantharia: falling in myriad colours and often seem beautiful they look. between corals and anemones. electrified against the substrate. Institute, Singapore. She is also a Their tentacles have stinging Kelab Alami runs guided winner of the Iskandar Malaysia They live in a long leathery cells which help it to entrap habitat walks in our seagrass tube that is buried about 2 small fishes and zooplankton. meadows during the low tide; Social Hero Awards (IMSHA) feet under the seabed, but Some tube anemones like to this lets you get up close and their tentacles can come out to trap food. Some anemones live in sandy substrates while personal with these amazingly can retract (or pull back) their others like to live in the softer striking creatures in the wild. tentacles when surprised, substrate around seagrass, but Log on to kelabalami.weebly.com others retract them at the low for more information TI tide to retain moisture within their tube homes. If a tube anemone loses its tentacles to a predator, it can grow them back. Some nudibranchs like to dine on these invertebrates. Tube anemones’ tentacles

12 ISSUE 93 | MAY 2020 THE ISKANDARIAN LIVE Breathing Right Health Late diagnosis of lung cancer results in higher mortality rate According to the Malaysia National Cancer and restaurants drive the point towards increasing public Your doctor will also select the correct treatment Registry Report 2012-2016, lung cancer is the awareness on the dangers of direct or indirect smoking. according to your cancer stage. For Stage I and Stage II – third commonly seen cancer in the nation, which are considered as early stage lung cancer – surgical accounting for at 9.8%. The same report cites There are also other risk factors for lung cancer, such resection is the mainstay of treatment.“Depending on the colorectal cancer as number two at 13.5%. as family history, existing chronic obstructive pulmonary size and location of the cancer, there are different ways disease or pulmonary tuberculosis, exposure to ionizing of surgery. For medically inoperable patients, stereotactic However, the survival rates for both are vastly different radiation, asbestos, chromium, silica, polycyclic aromatic ablative radiotherapy is also a choice of treatment”, adds despite the marginal difference. The Malaysian Study on hydrocarbons and diesel exhaust. Think you’re safe in Dr Lim. For stage II disease, neoadjuvant chemotherapy Cancer Survival (MySCan) 2018 notes that there is a 51.1% your home away from all these dangerous elements? follows by surgery or surgery follows by adjuvant chance of five-year relative survival for colorectal cancer Think again:“Never forget of indoor pollutants too as it is chemotherapy is the optimal treatment option. but for lung cancer, it is only 11% – the lowest recorded. a major risk factor for lung cancer in women who’ve never smoked before living in several Asian regions,” says Dr While lung cancer is mostly diagnosed at a later It is not just in Malaysia where this is evident; globally, Lim. The fact is anyone can get lung cancer, whether it is stage (Stage IIIB, IIIC or Stage IV), making it difficult to be the prognosis for stage IV lung cancer is poor where the because of your lifestyle choices or genetic predisposition. treated effectively, its treatment has entered a new era of survival rate is only around 5%. Why the difference? personalized medicine since the discovery of oncogenic Evidence points to a late diagnosis in lung cancer, and Treating the Cancer driver mutation. “At present, lung cancer is one of the that makes all the difference between surviving the Lung cancer can be categorised into two types – Small most successful personalized treatment-based cancers cancer or not. In Malaysia, only three to four percentages among all cancer type. Therefore, the best and effective of those diagnosed with lung cancer are in Stage I but up Cell Lung Cancer (SCLC) accounting for 15% of the all treatment for advanced lung cancer is to choose the right to 90% are already in Stage III or Stage IV. cancer cases, and Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC) drug for the right person and target at the right timing,” accounting for 85%. The type you have will determine the explains Dr Lim. Even those with the most symptoms are only kind of treatment you’ll get. diagnosed when their cancer is at an advanced stage, You don’t have to wait till it’s too late to get a diagnosis says Dr Ronald Lim Chor Kuan, Respiratory and Internal There have been lots of breakthrough improvements though, especially if you are in the high-risk group. Data Medicine Specialist, specialising in lung cancer from in the management of NSCLC, whether it is target therapy, shows that low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) in Regency Specialist Hospital. “This disease causes very immunotherapy, and chemotherapy as well as anti- those aged more than 55 year-old who have more than limited symptoms and may even be asymptomatic at angiogenesis therapy. Yet, the treatment efficacy and 30 pack-year history of smoking, or those aged more than the early stage, resulting in difficulty in early diagnosis.” prognosis for SCLC remains unsatisfactory.“SCLC is a rapid 50 years-old who have more than 20 pack-year history Symptoms of lung cancer include cough, chest pain, growing cancer cell type with shorter tumor doubling of smoking with addition risks factors that increase hemoptysis and shortness of breath, loss of weight or time. Recent two studies added immunotherapy to the lung cancer, picks up lung cancers earlier, thus reducing appetite, which many would brush off as a prolonged standard first line chemotherapy regimen – platinum and mortality. “LDCT has been shown to reduce the relative cold, adding to the reasons why lung cancer is often etoposide. The treatment arm with added immunotherapy mortality of lung cancer by 20%, in the National Lung diagnosed too late. Also, patients’ reluctance to have shows significantly prolonged overall survival as compared Screening Trial in United States,” says Dr Lim. these symptoms checked out – like a persistent cough – to chemotherapy alone – these are encouraging results can delay the diagnosis as well. and introduce a new page to the treatment of SCLC, which However, like many diseases, it pays to start early to before 2019 had limited treatment options,”says Dr Lim. reduce the risks of lung cancer, many of which you can Despite it being caught late, one of the risk factors for take your own initiative to do so. If you’re smoking, make a lung cancer is something that can be avoided early on concentrated effort to quit smoking. It can be hard for the before it impacts your health: Smoking. first few months but after that, your lungs will thank you for it. Also, if you are surrounded by secondhand smoke, It’s a well-known fact that cigarette smoking can lead walk away – you have the right to not inhale it. With to lung cancer – whether you are the one smoking or if everything else, eat in moderation, exercise regularly, and you are exposed to secondhand smoke. “Approximately go for regular health screenings if you’re in a high-risk 85 to 90% of lung cancer cases are caused by voluntary or group. - by Regency Specialist Hospital TI involuntary cigarette smoking. There are also a 20 to 30% of increased risks in lung cancer from secondhand smoke (Sources: http://www.moh.gov.my/moh/resources/Penerbitan/Laporan/ exposure associated with living with a smoker. Thus, both active and passive smokers carry the risks of developing Umum/Malaysian_Study_on_Cancer_Survival_MySCan_2018.pdf and lung cancer,” says Dr Lim. Therefore, it is essential for you to snub out that cigarette and make it a point to quit for https://lungcancer.net.my/Article_HCP/MNCR%202012-2016%20 your health’s sake. In fact, the smoking ban in eateries FINAL%20(PUBLISHED%202019).pdf) W ith the Movement Control Taking care of yourself by groceries to communities who need them Order (MCO) being extended contributing to others most (with permission from the authorities). to 12th May 2020 for now, some of us might feel a What you can do for Perhaps it is by helping others that heightened sense of anxiety and worry on others during Movement some could shift their focus on the sense of what will happen during and beyond these Control Order? isolation caused by MCO to the satisfaction uncertain times. of connecting with and creating a offer or seek for help during this pandemic supportive community for the well-being There have been several tips and season. of self and others. advice given such as finding a new hobby, engaging in meditative exercises, The most interesting thing about the Closer to home crusading with their maintaining connection with friends and portal is reading the experience of the charity efforts is the Iskandar Malaysia loved ones through online platforms, trying “caremongers.” Even though some of them social heroes (IMSHA). Find out more about new recipes, and many more other self-care feel down emotionally and tired physically their efforts via: https://www.facebook.com/ techniques. during this MCO season, they felt they socialheroawards/ have done something important at the Another useful way to improve our end of the day by coordinating the charity On the other hand, for people who well-being is getting involved in pro-social movements online or delivering bags of are stressed and might benefit from effort that benefits and contributes to a conversation with a helpline, call the community, as suggested by a recent Befrienders Johor Bahru, contact 07- research. Recently, a Facebook platform 3312300 or [email protected]. (The “Caremongering Malaysia”has been created organisation operational hours during to provide opportunities for Malaysians to MCO are from 1pm to 12 midnight daily.) - by Steffi Tan TI

13 ISSUE 93 | MAY 2020 THE ISKANDARIAN WORK Cost Cutting and Ranita Markandan Retrenchment: To Reduce or Legal Adviser Not To? Meca Employers Consulting Agency Sdn Bhd [email protected] A n employment contract is an agreement where the financial situation of the Company and the ability of later claimed that he was forced to sign the said letter the employee offers his service in exchange Managers to convey this concern to their subordinates. of early retirement. for salary to be paid by the employer. Along This is why MECA advice employers to undertake a with it comes related details such as number communication session and be transparent in terms Decision of working hours, allowances payable and benefits of the Company’s finances and business condition. The court has to take cognisance of the economic which are to be agreed upon by both parties to form the terms and conditions of the employment. We personally would emphasise on informing situation at the material time. The company had the employees that the exercise(s) is important to enjoyed economic prosperity and unilaterally offered If there are any changes to be made to the contract ensure the boat stays afloat and at the end of the day, generous perks, benefits and salary increases to its staff. But 1997 saw a dramatic change in the economic of employment, the employer is required to obtain everyone remains employed. situation of the country. Even Government servants had the employee’s consent. The consent is paramount, Be sure to allow employees agreed to their pay deduction in order to cushion the as the change in terms of employment amounts to a to ask questions as well. drastic impact of the economy. The company in tandem variation of contract. Consent equates to knowledge of The affected employees’ with the financial crisis came up with their survival plan the changed terms and agreement to abide by those consent should be obtained in order to survive the impact. In Harris Solid State (M) new terms of employment. in writing. As an employment Sdn Bhd v. Bruno Gentil Perera & Ors [1996] 4 CLJ 747, his contract is a personal lordship Gopal Sri Ram JCA at p. 766 had this to say:“An Based on the current climate in Malaysia that contract between an employer may reorganise his commercial undertaking has been engulfed with the COVID-19 pandemic, employer and an employee, for any legitimate reason, such as promoting better wherein the whole nation is under a Movement the Company should obtain economic viability, but he must not do so for a collateral Control Order (MCO) since 18th March 2020, many employees’ individual purpose, for example, to victimise his workman for their business enterprises had to rethink the survival of their consent. legitimate participation in Union Activities whether the organisation moving forward during and post MCO. particular exercise of managerial power was exercised The nagging issue that bona fide or for collateral reasons is a question of fact As such, the Company has embarked on cost cutting plaques this requirement is, that necessarily falls to be decided upon the peculiar measures such as pay cuts, unpaid leave, half-pay leave ‘What if some employees do circumstances of each case.” or “persuasively” requesting employees to utilise their not provide their consent?’ annual leaves. The court does not see any element of mala fide So, you have 2 on the part of the company. In all probabilities it is Such persuasive requests amount to a variation of choices here. One is to inherently apparent the company was only adopting contract and therefore, consent must be obtained prior only implement the cost a proactive stand to create a win-win situation for to the enforcement of the varied terms. This rule applies reduction on consenting the company and the employees. The company had across the board inclusive of contractual benefits such employees. Second is to to consider the staffs’ welfare of the whole company as fixed allowances. This position has been crystalized proceed with the majority instead of a selected few. The unabated economic with our Labour Department pursuant to their FAQs votes. As this is done with slowdown would adversely affect the company’s dated 31st March 2020. bona fide intention of survival. In the event of a closure the whole 200 staff keeping the Company in business and everyone of the company could face a bleak future. To ease the process of securing consent, it is remains employed, we believe this is a strong basis to important that employees understand the reason allow the cost cutting exercise by way of majority vote. MECA’s take from the above decision is that behind the request so as to manage their expectations, This point of view was reiterated in the case law the Industrial Court would take cognizance of the of Penas Realty Sdn Bhd -V-Chee Yew Kong (2002) 3 Company’s past conducts towards its employees’ Ilr 13. wellbeing, the current economic situation and the Company’s prerogative to organise its business Facts of the case structure as the Company deems fit. Before 1997, the company was doing very well in its When your cost cutting exercise involves reduction business. The company is involved in the construction to employees’ salary, the Labour Department makes of residential and commercial properties. In 1997 the it mandatory for Companies to inform them through whole country was faced with an economic downturn the submission of the PK Form. During the MCO period, and the construction industry was badly affected. In submissions were allowed to be made via email to the order to keep the company afloat, the company came nearest Labour Office. TI up with a cost-hyphen saving plan. The company tried not to reduce their staff but to reduce their overhead cost. One of the ways to reduce cost was to reduce the staffs’salaries. The claimant however refused to consent to the reduction of 25% of his salary. The claimant was the only one in his department of about 100 staff who refused to consent. The company then gave the claimant two options, the first was to agree to the salary deduction and the second was to go for early retirement and accept ex gratia payment. The claimant then signed the early retirement letter and accepted the ex gratia payment. But the claimant

14 ISSUE 93 | MAY 2020 THE ISKANDARIAN INVEST Accumulating Wealth Principal’s Perspectives on What Tips & Tricks Dealing with the Unknown Malaysians Can Expect from the Stimulus Packages Finally, the US had decided T he Prime Minister to lockdown the whole means some companies would Tey Bin Yuen recently announced Munirah country, so as most no longer be serving the needs of the PRIHATIN Rakyat Khairuddin countries around the world their customers as before, and its Binyuen is the founder of BY Economic Stimulus due to COVID-19 pandemic. prospects have changed. Enrich Resources and the author Package amounting to RM260 Chief Executive Officer Principal billion (inclusive of the RM20 Asset Management Berhad At the time of writing, there are Nevertheless, there are of‘Life beyond the Comfort billion in the initial package over two million COVID-19 cases opportunities around in either Zone’and‘Profit from Share announced on 27th February and maintained a stable rating reported and over 200,000 people good or bad times. I believe a Investment’. His books are 2020) and the SME incentives outlook, indicating acceptance lost their lives from this global company can survive and thrive if available in major bookstores in in a bid to soften the impact of temporary fiscal expansion. outbreak. At the same time, over it possesses the traits below: Malaysia, Singapore or online of the COVID-19 Movement Fitch and Moody’s, however, have 16 million Americans have lost http://www.teybinyuen.com/ Control Order (MCO) and increase yet to release their opinion on their jobs and more enterprises a) They are in the global profitfromshareinvestment cashflow to prevent the collapse the matter. Risk to fiscal outlook are expected to go bankrupt. To business, which means they are of Malaysia economy. now is the duration of COVID-19 salvage the situation, the Federal doing export or serving clients would be better to go for short pandemic and its economic Reserve took additional action from all over the world. It shows term (trading). The advantage of The RM260 billion stimulus impact. on 9th April 2020 to provide up their competitiveness. trading is that you only focus on is equivalent to 17% of GDP to $2.3 trillion in loans to support the technical chart, rather than compared to the 8% of GDP (or What is our investment the economy. While the US death b) Their products and services spending much time knowing the RM67 billion) package introduced strategy? tolls have seemed to stabilise by are always wanted as they’re on company thoroughly. during the 2008 Global Financial mid-April, some countries seemed the mega global trend, such as Crisis. Direct injection from the BNM when it released its to get worse. 5G, big data, automotive LED, Since the market sentiment Federal Government amounted Annual Report for 2020 on 3rd aerospace, automation, home is much affected by the US stock to RM35 billion or 2.3% of GDP. April, guided that GDP growth In Malaysia, the Movement appliances, online payment, market, it would be helpful to look Bank Negara Malaysia (BNM) for the year will range from +0.5% Control Order (MCO) enforced for artificial intelligence, medical at the S&P 500 charts. projected for the stimulus to -2.0%. It would be reasonable nearly two months has seen the equipment and so on. package to add 2.8% to GDP. to expect a contraction in GDP spread more contained. On the Below is the S&P 500 technical especially in 1H2020. This would flipside, the prolonged shutdown c) They have a strong balance chart as on 14th April 2020. You The primary focus of the capture the impact from the of business activities has caused sheet. For instance, Scicom, JHM, can see it has rebound strongly stimulus package is as follows: COVID-19 outbreak globally and dilemma to many Small and D&O, KGB, FPgroup, LCtitan, from 2200 three weeks ago to 2846 Malaysia’s containment policy. Medium Enterprises (SMEs), Penta, Frontken, Dufu, Zhulian. If on 14th April 2020. So will the S&P 1. RM126 billion to sustain especially retailers. The world they have good records in paying continue to go up? Most people private consumption and The Government is likely is moving into a recession that decent dividends, that is even would say ‘no’, considering the confidence to fund a portion of the RM25 would be more severe than the better. bleak economy outlook. However, billion direct injection from Great Depression, and no doubt, stock market is not the economy, it 2. RM111 billion to preserve the domestic bond market. we are facing a major health and d) Some of them had survived is the barometer of the economy, the viability and alleviate The rest would come from financial crisis. Unlike any other through 2008 subprime crisis and it moves six to nine months insolvencies of domestic higher dividends from GLCs financial crisis, people’s personal and are still growing afterwards. ahead of the economy. For the business entities, with and spending reallocation. This safety matters this time. Now, if It shows their resilience and market to be stable, the index will focus on small and is a balance that policymakers you asked a CEO of a big or small the ability to thrive after the need to stand above the Moving medium sale enterprises would need to strike with an eye company, he would tell you that turbulence. Average 50, which is the pink line (SMEs) on future funding and responses it is very difficult to forecast their in this chart. Therefore, can the S&P from rating agencies. companies’prospect. So what can Companies mentioned 500 continue sustaining above the 3. RM3 billon to strengthen we do? above are only examples. They pink line? Only time will tell. the domestic economy In addition, the probability would recover (or might not) at a of Bank Negara Malaysia (BNM) What can investors do? different pace. It depends on their Conclusion Larger budget deficit cutting rates in 2Q2020 has I guess the answer is ‘stay business model and the market To deal with the unknown; let increased. This is because fiscal they serve. If their customers The Minister of Finance measures need up to 6 months away’, unless you know the were badly hit, you would expect us make things simple – observe to take effect. company very well. If the leader of longer recovery time. the chart and feel the market highlighted during an interview the company doesn’t know what emotion. From there, we would Malaysia, to some extent, would happen, who else would So there is plenty of homework make better trade knowing that the budget deficit would has some room to manoeuvre know? Even if the company has to do, such as study in-depth for the market emotion is more because: strong fundamentals, it could the potential companies, read favourable. TI be capped at 4% of GDP. This is change. A storm like COVID-19 has their quarterly and annual reports 1. Interest rates could be changed people’s lifestyle and the and attend their AGMs and ask the lower than the estimated 4.9% of lowered further, global economic landscape. This management questions. GDP in the information released 2. Balance sheets of Trading may be an option corporates are generally Since the market and the by the Prime Minister Office. In healthy, business outlook is unclear, it the Budget 2020 announcement 3. No presence of any asset price bubbles, and in October 2019, the projected 4. Little mismatch between budget deficit was 3.2% of GDP. foreign debt and cash flows The lower budget deficit of For further complete reading 4% of GDP is due to mitigating of this article, visit www. theiskandarian.com – Business measures such as: section. TI 1. Redirecting RM2 to RM3 billion from the original Budget 2020, previously provisioned for Visit Malaysia Year 2020 and etc., and, 2. Po t e n t i a l l y h i g h e r dividends from Government-Linked Corporates (GLCs). The companies or strategies mentioned in this article are meant for study purpose only. It The reallocation doesn’t constitute any ‘buy’ or ‘sell’ recommendation. Please consult your financial professional exercise will have to go if you want to make any decision. through due process as the Parliament has passed Budget 2020 at end of 2019. Rating agency, Standard & Poor, on 26th March 2020 reaffirmed Malaysia’s “A-” sovereign rating

15 ISSUE 93 | MAY 2020 THE ISKANDARIAN PLAY Sudoku LEGOLAND Malaysia Resort Keeps Scan QR Code Families Entertained at Home for the solution with 30-Day LEGO Challenge DOODLE Be Responsible L EGOLAND Malaysia Resort (LMR) LEGOLAND will be releasing a series of and dispose your recently launched its 30-Day videos with tips and tricks from LEGO face masks in the LEGO Challenge on social media, Builders on how to build some of the most inviting families to build various creative builds at home rubbish bin LEGO creations based on daily themes. By joining in on the daily challenges, • Bring Back The Awesome Giveaway every month The Iskandarian families have a chance to stretch their – LEGOLAND will be running a giveaway shares what you should imaginations and win exclusive LEGO where winners will walk away with some themed prizes. exclusive LEGO sets. Participants simply and should not be doing in need to share their most awesome your communities ! The LEGO Challenge will take place memories from their last visit at the resort until 5th May as it is one of the many ways and stand a chance to win. families can continue to enrich the lives of their children while spending quality time • LEGO Themed Digital Puzzles and together. The challenge, so far has received Interactive Content - To be announced an overwhelming response with over 5,000 on socmeds. entries to date. For more updates, promotions and stay During the challenge, LEGOLAND’s at home activities by LEGOLAND Malaysia LEGO Builders Panel will select six winners Resort, please visit: https://www.facebook. based on overall coolness, originality and com/LEGOLAND.my - by The Iskandarian TI the best use of LEGO elements. Prizes range from exclusive LEGO sets and LEGO themed giveaways. There is even a surprise prize for all participants. So far, some of the most creative themes for the 30-Day LEGO Challenges included creating the coolest new dinosaur that ever existed, the coolest thing you can create with 50 bricks and the best LEGO Sandwich ever! After the LEGO Challenge has been completed, LMR has lined-up many more interactive activities that families can engage in including: - • The LEGO Build Tips & Tricks –

16 The Iskandarian ISSUE 93 | MAY 2020 Advertisement

17 The Iskandarian ISSUE 93 | MAY 2020 What is AKPK’s role PROPERTY INSIGHT in assisting business @home owners and employees of small and medium- sized enterprises (SMEs) affected by the business slowdown pg 18 PROPERTY RESIDENTIAL PROJECTS APARTMENTS VILLAS CONDOMINIUMS OFFICE/RETAILSPACE Sunway Property Extends Aid to Local Councils, Police and Public Healthcare Institutions pg 19 UMLand donated AME Elite Read this article on RM50,000 to Consortium Berhad our website ‘Tabung Bencana Donates 100,000 Negeri Johor’ Face Masks Connect with us on Facebook

18 ISSUE 93 | MAY 2020 THE ISKANDARIAN PROPERTY AME Donates 100,000 Face Masks AME Elite Consortium public officials battling the coronavirus Kelvin Lee Chai and Simon Lee Sai Boon from AME Elite Consortium Berhad disease (COVID-19). handing over the masks to the Menteri Besar of Johor, Datuk Ir. Haji Hasni Berhad donate face masks Bin Haji Mohammad “The global COVID-19 pandemic has to Johor State Government greatly impacted the lives of all facets agencies in Johor. of the communities around us, and would of society. Every assistance is impactful, “In order to help our frontliners continue to help contain the widespread Ifor COVID-19 frontliners hence we are playing our part to protect effects of COVID-19 in our vicinity to ntegrated industrial space solutions the health and safety of our medical succeed, we recognise the need to unite overcome these trying times together,” provider AME Elite Consortium Berhad frontliners and public officials, so that our efforts and stand in solidarity. We added Kelvin. - by The Iskandarian TI provided medical face masks to be they are able to focus on their critical have always sought to improve the lives distributed to healthcare workers and tasks of serving the community and public officials to ensure their health and those in need,”said Kelvin Lee Chai, Group safety. Managing Director, AME Elite Consortium Berhad. The masks which were handed over to the Menteri Besar of Johor, Datuk Ir. Haji The face masks will be allocated by Hasni Bin Haji Mohammad were meant for the Johor State Government to various the protection of frontline healthcare and public hospitals and public enforcement AKPK Supports SMEs What is AKPK’s role in Fazleen Zakaria, AKPK’s General Manager of non-governmental organisations, to offer is the entrepreneurial module that was Operations observes that it will take a while counselling at workplace. For example, developed for AKPK’s partner, Amanah assisting business owners before the aid makes a real difference on the AKPK collaborates with Jabatan Tenaga Ikhtiar Malaysia (AIM), to educate the ground. While that happens, SMEs may not Kerja Semenanjung Malaysia (JTKSM) ‘sahabat’ of AIM on prudent spending and and employees of small and be able to pay salaries due to lack of sales and JobsMalaysia to identify new job careful budgeting that has helped them and possibly closure of businesses. They opportunities for retrenched employees. both personally and in business. medium-sized enterprises may resort to use of credit cards to support their fixed costs, and only make minimum 2. Enrolment in Debt Management There is also a special retrenchment (SMEs) affected by the payments on the cards when due. The Programme module in view of AKPK’s strong inevitable burden from the loans could be engagement with JTKSM for employees business slowdown arising devastating down the road. Enrol individuals into AKPK’s who have been made unemployed. personalised programme, DMP, and provide from, but not limited to, As a lead agency that oversees eligible borrowers with solutions to their 4. Voluntary Arrangement (VA) Service and rehabilitates financially distressed financial situation. From there, they will be There is also an additional service called COVID-19 pandemic in individuals, including sole-proprietors, AKPK able to reschedule and restructure their is equipped to help individuals manage their various types of loans such as housing, Voluntary Arrangement (VA) pursuant to IMalaysia? money wisely, so that they spend within their hire purchase and personal as well as any the Bankruptcy (Amendment) Act 1967. n order to curb the spread of COVID-19 means and achieve their financial goals— outstanding credit/charge card balances. This rescue mechanism acts as a final that struck nationwide, the government resulting in a positive lifestyle change. option for a debtor to negotiate a feasible had imposed the Movement Control AKPK is tasked to proactively help repayment plan with creditors in order Order (MCO) on 18th March 2020 till 12th To achieve this, AKPK outlines five (5) individuals take control of their financial to avoid from being declared a bankrupt. May 2020 (*at the time of writing). However, proposals to support financially distressed standing and gain peace of mind. Based The debtor will appoint a nominee to act what stemmed from this economic wise is business owners and employees of SMEs: on our statistics: as an independent professional to oversee that the small and medium-sized enterprises and try to structure a debt arrangement (SMEs) were badly affected causing many 1. Financial review and counselling • A majority of people (69.9%) compromise with all the creditors. In this business owners to shut down their Conduct a thorough review of the who seek help in regaining control of their ‘second-chance’ scheme, AKPK acts as a businesses, or layoff staff. Some businesses finances are between 30 to 50 years of age. nominee which allows a debtor to enter had also experienced a slowdown at the individual’s cash flow position to provide The remaining is made up of those below 30 into an instalment plan as agreed upon by onset of the pandemic itself due to lack practical advice on money management years (13.7%) as well as those above 50 years all parties involved. of demand locally and globally. So what to help control spending and debt (16.4%). is being done to “safe” the day? Agensi management via financial counselling and 5. Lifestyle Change programmes Kaunseling dan Pengurusan Kredit (AKPK), advise services. During the counselling • Out of the approximately 315,000 Collaborate with the relevant authorities an agency set up by Bank Negara Malaysia sessions, options will be made available for individuals enrolled in DMP, 36.8% of since 2016 is offering assistance to business individuals to consider in managing their them admit that they encountered money to develop and promote a lifestyle change owners and employees of SMEs affected finances better. problems due to poor financial planning. This for the business owners and employees. by the business slowdown arising from fact is a strong indication of the importance Over the years, AKPK partners with many COVID-19 pandemic in Malaysia. Examples of counselling options of financial education that we hope could governmental and non-government include: create a more resilient household sector as agencies to achieve its objectives in helping SMEs are crucial in our country’s strategy well as a sound and robust banking system. financially distressed individuals. to become a high-income nation. They (i) recommending a change in lifestyle contribute about 40% to the country’s Gross by reducing certain expenditure (such as 3. Delivery of financial education As an agency set up by Bank Negara Domestic Product (GDP). Unfortunately, the entertainment) which is not necessary; and modules Malaysia, AKPS’s main services are SMEs are now adversely affected following Financial Education, Financial Counselling the coronavirus pandemic. (ii) in extreme cases, recommending As the lead agency for financial and Debt Management Programme. You liquidation of assets to allow some extra cash education in Malaysia, AKPK has financial can obtain more information about AKPK Laudably, the stimulus package during the difficult period. education modules that can be tailor- at https://www.akpk.org.my. TI announced by the Prime Minister is a made to the needs of SME business great step to assist SMEs to stay afloat AKPK leverages on its strategic owners and employees. Currently, there without substantial liabilities and without partners, including governmental and having to lay off employees. However, Nor

19 ISSUE 93 | MAY 2020 THE ISKANDARIAN PROPERTY Community Support: Sunway Property Extends Aid to Local Councils, Police and Public Healthcare Institutions Following Sunway Group’s commitment Sunway Berhad Executive beneficiaries in various Headquarters and Hospital of RM34 million in aid Director and Property Division communities nationwide. Sultanah Aminah (HSA) which will reach 40,000 Managing Director, Sarena to supply items needed Cheah had handed over In the KlangValley, Sunway for ongoing security and Property has worked with the beneficiaries nationwide Sunway Berhad’s RM1million Petaling Jaya City Council healthcare operations. The including COVID-19 patients donation to Prime Minister (Majlis Bandaraya Petaling private security personnel who have lost their jobs, public Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin for Jaya, MBPJ) to distribute and law enforcement hospitals and its healthcare the national COVID-19 fund. food to communities in need personnel received face frontliners, affected non- “ Today we stand and frontliners as well as the masks and sanitisers while essential tenants in Sunway’s in solidarity with the Kota Damansara Legislative the HSA received face masks, Malaysia PM Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yasin receiving malls, and contributions to communities we serve Assembly to distribute hand hand sanitisers and infrared RM1mil mock cheque for COVID-19 Fund from B40 communities, Sunway against the largest challenge sanitisers to frontliners. The forehead thermometers. Sunway Berhad Executive Director & Property Property’s regional teams has faced by humanity in recent aid to MBPJ had benefited Division Managing Director Sarena Cheah worked to extend additional history. While we are all doing the PJ City Food Bank which Harvest from Sunway Property’s organic farms aid to state and city councils, our part by staying at home, had distributed food to the in Ipoh, Perak is now the Penang State Welfare tips, please follow Sunway the police force and local our hearts go out to all the urban poor, orphanages, committed to serving Department to contribute Property’s Facebook https:// public healthcare institutions selfless heroes and frontliners organisations for the healthcare professionals groceries to the underserved w w w . f a c e b o o k . c o m / who are working to combat who are fighting for us during differently-abled, senior citizen and patients in the Raja community and families SunwayProperty/ TI COVID-19 within the local these trying times,” said homes and single mothers Permaisuri Bainun Hospital. which need them the most. communities in support of Sunway Property. throughout the city as well The twice weekly deliveries Sunway Property Penang their tireless fight to end the To date, Sunway Property’s as food to the frontliners in will benefit the patients’with also contributed face masks spread of the pandemic. additional initiatives have University Malaya Medical specific nutritional needs to the Majlis Bandaraya On 7th April 2020, benefitted another 3,500 Centre. The Kota Damansara as well as the healthcare Pulau Pinang council for Legislative Assembly had professionals until 14th April distribution to the frontliners. distributed hand sanitisers 2020, which has been set as Sunway Property’s staffs to frontliners around Kota the end of the second phase are also donating to the Damansara including of Movement Control Order. #Sunwayforgood Fund which Sunway Property Penang Assistant GM Fong Neighbourhood Watch Currently about 750 patients has been established by Sim Hoon Seng, Senior Choon Fuoi handed over 6,000 face masks to Dato’ groups (Rukun Tetangga), and healthcare workers are Sunway employees.The Fund Manager, Project Ar. Yew Tung Seang, Mayor of MBPP, accompanied Residents Associations,Village benefiting from the deliveries intends to provide Sunway’s Management, Sunway by Nicholas Theng, Councillor of MBPP Chiefs (Ketua Kampung) and which are carried out twice frontliners with additional Iskandar (from right) private security personnel in a week. More than 130 kgs support as well as benefit handed over face masks, residential areas who are on of vegetables have been more B40 families around hand sanitisers and patrol duties. delivered so far. Sunway’s communities. thermometers to Abd Halim bin Hj Jamil, Head In Johor, Sunway Property In Penang, Sunway For more information of Medical Social Work, has extended support to the Property is working with the on Sunway Property’s Hospital Sultanah Iskandar Puteri District Police Mutiara Food Bank under initiatives and useful family Aminah JB

20 ISSUE 93 | MAY 2020 THE ISKANDARIAN PROPERTY UMLand Donates to Johor COVID-19 Fund United Malayan Land Bhd Menteri Besar of Johor, Datuk Ir. Haji Hasni Bin Haji Mohammad and representatives from UMLand (UMLand) has donated Recognising itself as a facilitator hope to give our assistance wherever and situation may seem, it is only natural for us RM50,000 to ‘Tabung in infrastructural and community whenever possible. Whilst facing a global to work together and win the battle against development, UMLand’s CSR efforts aim pandemic, we would also like to stand by this global pandemic. Thus, we hope that Bencana Negeri Johor’ to create a cohesive and sustainable living the side of our frontliners to combat this our contribution will not only be able assist environment for all. outbreak together. Their contributions and the government efforts but also to ease the which will provide aid to sacrifices have allowed us Malaysians to be burden of those affected. Together, we shall “As a responsible corporate entity, we safe while they tirelessly take on the full prevail,” added Wong. medical frontliners and brunt of the battle to prevent the spread of COVID-19,”said KK Wong, Group Director UMLand’s award winning township – the community amidst the of Townships, UMLand. Seri Austin is among the inaugural winners of the Iskandar Malaysia Social Hero Awards Tongoing COVID-19 pandemic “We are facing an unprecedented time (IMSHA) in 2014 for their CSR efforts. The he contribution by UMLand will and we understand that many individuals developer prides itself for carrying out be utilised to purchase additional and families are also greatly affected due meaningful CSR activities over the years. - Personal Protection Equipment to the recent restrictions. As difficult as the by The Iskandarian TI (PPE) as well as providing food supplies and medical aid to low income families during this period. The initiative is spearheaded by “UMLand Cares”, the corporate responsibility arm for UMLand Group. Housing Loan iProperty.com.my Provides Much- Deferment Needed Assistance to Property Agents O n 1st April 2020 b) Settle other high Devadason we were given a interest bearing loans such as iProperty.com.my have announced an assistance plan in an effort to “once in a lifetime” credit cards, personal loan, cash CA(M), FCCA, MDRT help its partners, especially property agents, that are affected by the loan instalment advances, and etc. COVID-19 outbreak in Malaysia. The initiative, #iPropertyCares support, deferment by our Government Deva is a partner in the firm is provided to its active property agents during these difficult and and banks until 30th c) Anything that costs of Dason & Dason, Chartered unprecedented times, until 1st May 2020 on a complimentary basis. September 2020. No doubt, the higher than your mortgage Accountants who specialises in circumstance behind this “gift” loan should be “attacked tax advisory and consultancy. He The #iPropertyCares provides its active property agents with the is dire and grim. However, even aggressively” with the cash in following: the worst of situations has its hand. can be reached at advantages. [email protected] • All current active Premium and Featured listings will be extended d) Just simply save the to 1st May 2020. Although interest is amount and at the end of the in stock or Unit Trust selection accrued into the outstanding loan “honeymoon”, if there’s as well as price mitigation • All new Premium and Featured listings created between now to balance (except hire purchase), no reduction in income or strategy. Prices can suddenly 1st May 2020 will get an additional 30 days extension from listing the impact is likely to be retrenchment, pay into the go down and if all your capital expiry date. insignificant through increased outstanding mortgage in one has been invested at one go, instalments (when repayment lump sum. you can be stuck for a long • All account subscriptions that are due for expiry between 26th March resumes) or added tenure. time. to 30th April 2020 will automatically expire on 1st May 2020. So what do we do with the e) For those who are additional cash in hand? The financially unaffected, just On a positive note, the rate • New sign-up accounts activated in the month of March and April following can be considered:- continue with the instalments of COVID-19 recovery has been 2020 will be extended for another one month. by updating your Bank of your encouraging so far, indicating a) Reflect on your living intention to opt in. that measures being put in The support provided to the agents is meant to garner more exposure expenses and see whether place are yielding results. and, at the same time, allow property agents more time to bridge into any excesses can be trimmed. f ) Consider investing However, only time will tell a new way of business, maintaining their presence to high-intent Aim to accumulate at least 3 into Unit Trusts or Stocks. Prices whether this is true or just a property seekers. months of cash reserves. Better are beaten down so badly that temporary blip. Let’s continue yet, go for 6 months! good companies are going to abide and co-operate with iProperty.com.my initially announced the #iPropertyCares support for unreasonable prices. Go the authorities. to its property agents when the Movement Control Order (MCO) was for dividend paying counters. first imposed from 18th March till 31st March 2020. Thereafter, the Let’s be the change we want government announced the extension of the MCO and iProperty.com. These should provide to see in the world. We lead by my subsequently extended it from 1st April to 1st May 2020. you a good start action rather than just words. towards creating “The impact of the COVID-19 has resulted in unprecedented a post retirement Be strong. Be resolute. conditions for the local property market. Our partners, specifically income. property agents, were affected by it. Due to the MCO, any viewing of **The facts and views expressed properties between agents and buyers could not be done as well, and our However, a word are solely that of the author/ partners remain front-and-centre in all of our thinking. In the spirit of true of caution, it is wise authors and do not necessarily partnership, we want to help our partners with unconditional support to get proper advice reflect that of the editorial and understanding. We hope through the #iPropertyCares support, all our from a qualified board. TI partners can gain more exposure,”said David Mawer, General Manager of Financial Advisor iProperty.com Malaysia Sdn Bhd. who can assist you The #iPropertyCares support is initiated with the aim to provide property agent customers as well as developer and media customers with innovative tools and services that can help their businesses in these changing times as more potential homebuyers look online for their property needs. For more information on the support, property agents can contact their iProperty.com.my account manager or alternatively contact the customer service team via phone +603 6419 5188, WhatsApp +6017 943 9107 or email [email protected], Monday to Friday, 9am - 6pm. TI

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