Property

PETALING JAYA, Thomson Medical Group (TMG) has officially launched Johor Bay, an RM18 billion gross development value (GDV) project that is poised to become a transformative landmark within the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone (JS-SEZ). Spanning 26 acres of freehold land, the integrated master plan will be spearheaded by the upcoming Thomson Hospital Iskandariah, which will serve as the development’s healthcare nucleus. The hospital will be complemented by specialist medical suites, aged care and assisted living facilities, ensuring a comprehensive healthcare ecosystem that caters to the region’s growing cross-border demand. Beyond healthcare, Johor Bay will feature luxury residences, a five-star hotel, commercial zones, and lifestyle precincts, positioning the project as a world-class urban destination. Market observers have already likened the development to becoming the “Marina Bay of Johor,” reflecting its ambition to redefine the region’s skyline and investment landscape. Strategically located just 1.2 km from the upcoming Bukit Chagar rapid transit system (RTS) station, Johor Bay is designed as a holistic ecosystem that integrates healthcare, urban living, and long-term investment opportunities — making it a key anchor in the JS-SEZ blueprint. The project’s first phase, with a value of RM3.1 billion, will include the flagship hospital and a 47-storey luxury residential tower offering 180 exclusive units. This phase alone is expected to generate more than 1,200 new jobs, contributing meaningfully towards the JS-SEZ’s wider objective of creating 20,000 skilled jobs within five years. TMG executive vice-chairman Kiat Lim said the timing was ideal for the launch. “The time is right — economic tailwinds, infrastructure momentum, and demographic shifts are converging. Johor Bay will not only reshape the skyline but also play a defining role in the long-term growth of the JS-SEZ.”

KUALA LUMPUR, Haily Group Bhd, through its wholly-owned subsidiary Haily Construction Sdn Bhd, has bagged a RM50.08 million subcontract from Mandy Corp Sdn Bhd, a subsidiary of Gadang Holdings Bhd, for the development of a new residential project in Gelang Patah, Johor. In its statement, Haily said the contract involves the construction and completion of Laman Citra Phase 3, which will feature 91 units of double-storey terrace houses, another 45 units of double-storey terrace houses, as well as a Tenaga Nasional Bhd (TNB) substation. The scope of works under the agreement includes main building and external works, in addition to mechanical and electrical services required to complete the project. The development is scheduled to be completed within 20 months. This latest contract win further strengthens Haily’s order book, pushing its total secured contract value for 2025 to RM68.11 million. The company also highlighted that its portfolio now encompasses 25 active projects across various segments, with a combined contract value of approximately RM1.05 billion. According to Haily, the new project not only enhances its presence in Johor’s growing property market but also reinforces its role as a reliable construction partner for established developers. The group believes the steady stream of project wins will continue to support its growth trajectory and contribute positively to earnings visibility in the coming years.

KUALA LUMPUR, SkyWorld Development Bhd is banking on RM483.1mil in unbilled sales as at June 30, 2025, to drive its performance in FY26, supported by progressive revenue recognition from ongoing projects and sales of completed units. The property developer also plans to roll out new projects with a combined gross development value (GDV) of over RM2bil in Kuala Lumpur and Penang during the financial year ending March 31, 2026. SkyWorld Development Bhd chief executive officer Lee Chee Seng. “We are confident these upcoming launches will strengthen sales performance and keep us on track to achieve our RM4.6bil project launch target by end-2026,” said CEO Lee Chee Seng in a statement. For the first quarter ended June 30, SkyWorld’s net profit plunged 71.5% to RM2.8mil, or 0.29 sen per share, while revenue fell 24.5% to RM74.6mil. As of June 30, the group maintained a healthy financial position, with gross gearing at 0.57 times, net gearing at 0.12 times, and cash reserves exceeding RM300mil. “Despite economic headwinds locally and globally, the board remains cautiously optimistic of delivering stable financial and operational results in FY26,” it said.

Airports of Thailand Plc (AoT) has approved a 5.7-billion-baht project to build a new passenger terminal at Mae Fah Luang Chiang Rai International Airport, aiming to handle up to 7 million passengers annually. Airport general manager Sqn Ldr Somchanok Thiemthiabrat said the terminal is set to be completed by 2032, boosting the airport’s current capacity from 1.9 million to 6 million passengers per year. Consultants have already been appointed to prepare the terminal’s conceptual design. He emphasized that the new terminal is a crucial investment for Chiang Rai and will require strong cooperation among stakeholders to meet the seven-year target. Located on a 753-rai site, the airport has set aside around 50 rai for a maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) centre to support future demand. With China projected to become the world’s largest air transport market, Thailand is seen as a competitive MRO hub due to its location and cost advantages. The MRO project, which has passed its environmental impact assessment, is expected to begin construction soon. Somchanok said it will serve as a foundation for Thailand’s wider aerospace industry — similar to Singapore’s role in aircraft assembly and full-service repairs — and help transform Chiang Rai into an “Air Metropolis” for the region.

KUALA LUMPUR, Chinese electric vehicle (EV) giant BYD Co Ltd will set up its first automotive assembly plant in Malaysia at KLK TechPark in Tanjung Malim, Perak, marking a major step in the state’s push to position itself as a leading automotive hub. The investment, secured in just three months, was facilitated through the Muallim Speed-Lane (M-SL) fast-track construction initiative launched in 2023 to accelerate the district’s role in the global automotive industry. Global electric vehicle leader BYD Co Ltd will establish its first automotive assembling plant in Malaysia at KLK TechPark in Tanjung Malim, Perak. KLK Land Sdn Bhd said BYD’s presence is expected to be a catalyst for Malaysia’s EV sector, creating jobs, boosting technology transfer, and strengthening expertise in EV manufacturing while also driving the growth of supporting industries. This will allow local businesses to integrate into the global EV supply chain and reinforce Malaysia’s position in the regional automotive landscape. As an anchor tenant of KLK TechPark’s first phase, BYD will occupy 60.7 hectares of the 607-hectare integrated industrial hub, with future phases designed to attract vendors and complementary businesses to build a competitive automotive ecosystem. The hub is envisioned as a centre for advanced manufacturing and green technology, offering world-class infrastructure to attract high-value investments. KLK Land’s parent company, Kuala Lumpur Kepong Bhd, highlighted the collaboration with the Perak state government as pivotal to making the development possible. Executive chairman Tan Sri Lee Oi Hian said: “KLK’s roots are in Perak, where we first built our foundation, and we remain committed to creating a positive and sustainable impact for future generations. We are grateful for the support of Datuk Seri Saarani Mohamad and Yang Berhormat Loh Sze Yee, who played key roles in bringing all parties together.” The project aligns with the Perak Sejahtera 2030 Plan and the Perak Structural Plan 2040, both of which prioritise industrial and manufacturing growth as drivers of socio-economic progress.

KUALA LUMPUR, Citaglobal Bhd has secured a RM168.88 million contract from the Public Works Department (JKR) to undertake a major road upgrade project in Malaysia. The project, aimed at improving connectivity and enhancing road safety, underscores the government’s commitment to upgrading national infrastructure. Under the contract, Citaglobal will carry out comprehensive road improvement works, including pavement upgrading, drainage enhancements, and traffic flow optimization. The project is expected to not only improve travel efficiency but also support local economic growth by facilitating smoother transport of goods and people. From left: Public Works Department (JKR) director-general Datuk Roslan Ismail, Works Minister Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi and Citaglobal Bhd executive chairman and president Tan Sri (Dr.) Mohamad Norza Zakaria. A Citaglobal spokesperson said, “We are honoured to be entrusted with this significant project by JKR. Our team is committed to delivering high-quality workmanship while ensuring minimal disruption to road users during construction.” The project is scheduled to commence in the coming months, with strict adherence to safety and quality standards mandated by JKR. The initiative is part of broader national efforts to strengthen infrastructure, particularly in areas experiencing growing traffic volumes and increasing urbanisation. Industry analysts noted that securing such government contracts reinforces Citaglobal’s position as a leading player in Malaysia’s construction and infrastructure sector, demonstrating the company’s technical capabilities and reliability. JKR has stated that the upgraded roads will enhance connectivity across key regions, improve public safety, and support Malaysia’s long-term economic development objectives.

JOHOR BAHRU, Property developer MB World Group Bhd, formerly a listed company, has launched its 732-acre MBW Innexus Industrial City in Tanjung Langsat, Johor Bahru. The project, undertaken by its subsidiary Rising Gateway Sdn Bhd, is a freehold heavy industrial township within the Forest City Special Financial Zone (SFZ), which is part of the Johor–Singapore Special Economic Zone (JS-SEZ). The development carries a gross development value (GDV) of RM2.03 billion. Strategically located, MBW Innexus is just 6km from Tanjung Langsat Port and 14km from Johor Port, with connectivity to Senai International Airport and Singapore’s Changi Airport. To support the development, Rising Gateway has secured a bilateral financing agreement with Maybank Islamic Bhd valued at up to RM635.6 million. At the launch, TM One, the enterprise arm of Telekom Malaysia Bhd, handed over its Smart Industrial Park Blueprint, which will integrate advanced infrastructure such as enterprise 5G, Internet of Things (IoT), AI-powered surveillance, cloud solutions, and ESG-aligned systems. Phase 1 of MBW Innexus, covering 13 industrial plots, is scheduled for completion by the second quarter of 2027. MB World executive director Datuk Rohman Ahmad described the project as a transformative initiative to reinforce Johor’s position as a regional industrial hub. “This development is more than economic growth — it encompasses industrial parks, affordable housing, commercial spaces, and community facilities designed to create real value for local residents and workers,” he said. The launch was officiated by Investment, Trade and Industry Minister Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Tengku Abdul Aziz, who highlighted that MBW Innexus investors stand to benefit from pilot policies under the JS-SEZ aimed at reducing bureaucracy, expediting approvals, and easing immigration, customs, and talent mobility. “Being surrounded by a strong supplier and talent ecosystem will benefit investors like MBW Innexus and its customers,” he said, adding that the project would also spur co-location opportunities for SMEs and MNCs, strengthening supply-chain resilience.

KUALA LUMPUR, NCT Alliance Bhd (NCT) has signed a conditional share sale agreement (SSA) to acquire the entire equity interest in NCT World Sdn Bhd (NCT World) for a total consideration of RM490.26 million. Datuk Seri Yap Ngan Choy. In a statement, NCT said the acquisition is expected to be completed in the fourth quarter of 2025 (4Q 2025). The purchase will be settled via the issuance of up to 104.2 million new ordinary shares and 917.2 million new redeemable convertible preference shares (RCPS), both priced at 48 sen per share. “This structure minimises cash outflow and allows NCT to preserve reserves for ongoing and future property development projects,” the company said. NCT added that issuing RCPS will help manage potential earnings dilution, aligning with the timeline needed to realise contributions from NCT World’s projects. The group described the acquisition as a transformational milestone, expanding its portfolio beyond residential and commercial developments into the rapidly growing industrial property segment under NCT World. Key projects under NCT World include the NCT Smart Industrial Park (NSIP) and NCT InnoSphere (NIS). NCT executive chairman and group managing director Datuk Seri Yap Ngan Choy said the deal reinforces the group’s position as a leading Malaysian property developer. “This acquisition consolidates NSIP and NIS under the group, strengthens our industrial property footprint, and provides long-term growth visibility,” he said. “It will expand our landbank to 546.33 hectares, ensuring a strong pipeline through 2030 and beyond, while unlocking immediate profitability from ongoing projects. The transaction will also boost our financial strength, increasing gross development value (GDV) from RM5.36 billion to RM10.17 billion,” he added.

Central Pattana Plc (CPN), Thailand’s leading real estate developer, will open the first phase of its 43rd shopping centre, Central Park, on September 4, aiming to attract 25 million visitors annually. The new mall is part of the Dusit Central Park mixed-use development, which spans 130,000 square metres of gross building area. The project also includes an office tower, hotel, and residences, with a total investment of 46 billion baht across 23 rai of land. The Central Park brand specifically refers to the shopping centre and office tower. Nattakit Tangpoonsinthana, CPN’s chief marketing officer, said the first phase will launch under the theme “Here for All of You”, with a strong focus on gastronomy. One of the highlights is the Edible Exhibition, turning the mall into an immersive art experience where the building itself becomes edible art. The new shopping centre is part of the Dusit Central Park mixed-use development. The full opening celebration is scheduled for November and will feature additional global brands. CPN aims to position Central Park as Asia’s culinary landmark, offering international dining, art and fashion events, and curated lifestyle experiences throughout the year. After the grand opening, Central Park is expected to welcome over 25 million visitors yearly, or roughly 70,000 per day, including both locals and international tourists. Kunayudh Dej-udom, asset director at Central Park, said the development merges urban living with nature, strategically located near Silom and Rama IV roads, opposite Lumpini Park. Designed for future flexibility, all four components—shopping centre, hotel, office, and residences—are connected through green spaces, including a seven-rai rooftop park. Central Park will feature more than 550 top brands, including Thailand debuts for Kiwamiya, a teppanyaki restaurant serving authentic Japanese wagyu steak; Koubai, a premium shabu-shabu outlet; Long Jing, offering Chinese fusion cuisine from Hangzhou; and Super Matcha, a South Korean green tea brand. The mall will also showcase Michelin-listed eateries and 70 street food legends. Nattakit emphasized that the development aims to create a landmark destination that elevates Bangkok’s global profile while inspiring new lifestyle trends and experiences.

KUALA LUMPUR, Mah Sing Group Bhd has been appointed by the Kajang Municipal Council (MPKj) as the lead developer for a new RM52.5 million flyover at the Jalan Tasik Kesuma–Jalan Semenyih intersection in Bandar Tasik Kesuma. The project, involving 11 developers, is set to begin in early 2026 and targeted for completion by early 2028. Once finished, the three-kilometre flyover will be handed over to MPKj and supported by upgraded roads and junctions along Jalan Semenyih to improve traffic flow and safety. Mah Sing group chief executive officer Datuk Voon Tin Yow said the company is honoured to lead the project and committed to ensuring smooth delivery. He added that the flyover will ease congestion, shorten travel times, and improve accessibility for residents, businesses, and visitors. MPKj president Nazli Md Taib welcomed Mah Sing’s leadership and thanked the participating developers for their cooperation in jointly funding the project, describing it as a strong example of public-private collaboration. The project is also strategically located near Mah Sing’s M Legasi residential township in Semenyih.