Property

Property

Trinity Rainfora: Where Urban Living Meets Nature’s Serenity

KUALA LUMPUR: Trinity Group has unveiled its latest flagship development, Trinity Rainfora, a distinctive transit-oriented project inspired by the rainforest, nestled in the heart of the Klang Valley. This RM388 million, 31-storey development spans a 2.4-acre freehold plot and comprises 535 residential units ranging from 739 to 1,184 square feet. Situated in Bandar Kinrara 5, Puchong, Trinity Rainfora enjoys superb connectivity, located just 400 meters from the Kinrara BK5 LRT station and offering easy access to major highways like Bukit Jalil, LDP, and KESAS, linking residents seamlessly to Kuala Lumpur and beyond. Embracing the concept of urban living amidst nature, the development is conveniently surrounded by educational institutions, shopping centers, and healthcare facilities within a 5-kilometer radius. Dato’ Neoh Soo Keat, Founder and Managing Director of Trinity Group Sdn Bhd, emphasized the project’s response to evolving consumer preferences shaped by recent global shifts: “Buyers today seek simplicity and profound wellbeing. They desire homes that serve as sanctuaries from urban demands. Understanding this, we’ve crafted living spaces that blend urban vitality with the tranquility of nature.” “As we mark our 20th anniversary, Trinity Rainfora represents our vision to redefine urban living in Malaysia. This development not only offers exceptional living spaces but also underscores our commitment to sustainability and innovation,” he added. Trinity Rainfora boasts a wealth of amenities including a Rainforest Canopy, Moonlit Skyrun Track, Glamping Forest, Infinity Pool, Aqua Gym, and more, with over 40% of the podium and 53% of the sky terrace dedicated to lush green spaces. Catering to upper-middle-class families and young professionals, Trinity Rainfora features various unit sizes conducive to multi-generational living, ensuring ample space for growth and recreation. In conjunction with its launch, Trinity Group introduces the Gold Assurance Programme, enhancing buyer confidence with extended warranties beyond industry standards:  36-Months Defects Liability Period 10-Year Warranty for Roof Leak  5-Year Warranty for Tiles Pop-Up “Our Gold Assurance Programme ensures long-term value and peace of mind, setting a new standard in quality assurance for homeowners,” concluded Dato’ Neoh. Scheduled for completion in 2028, Trinity Rainfora exemplifies Trinity Group’s evolution into an award-winning developer renowned for delivering outstanding residential properties.

Lifestyle, Property

Elmina Lakeside Mall Now Open

SHAH ALAM: Set to redefine the shopping experience in the northern Shah Alam area, Sime Darby Property Berhad (“Sime Darby Property” or “the Company”) officially marked the soft opening of Elmina Lakeside Mall (“ELM”) with over 98% of its retail spaces confirmed with tenants. ELM is Sime Darby Property’s second wholly-owned mall after KL East Mall. The mall’s opening marks a significant milestone in the ongoing development of the City of Elmina, complementing other upcoming facilities such as new schools and improved infrastructure. Located in the heart of Elmina City Centre and spanning over 17.18 acres, ELM embodies a unique biophilic concept that reflects Sime Darby Property’s commitment to sustainable development and enhancing the quality of life for City of Elmina’s growing population of 67,000 and surrounding areas. The soft launch of ELM was celebrated with tenants, the community and visitors on its recent opening day. Senior management from Sime Darby Property, along with esteemed anchor tenants, Jaya Grocer and Harvey Norman, officiated the event. The celebration featured a spirited cheerleading routine and a breathtaking acrobatic lion dance performed on the lake, paying homage to Malaysia’s diverse cultural heritage. In a gesture of appreciation, the first 600 shoppers received exclusive ELM merchandise, enriching the overall experience for visitors. Demonstrating ELM’s popularity, the mall attracted over 180,000 patrons throughout its opening week from 22 August to 29 August 2024. Sime Darby Property’s Chief Operating Officer of Township Development, Appollo Leong, said, “Elmina Lakeside Mall represents a new chapter in retail experiences. Bringing together a synthesis of nature-inspired elements with modern amenities, we are shaping a vibrant lifestyle hub for residents and visitors alike. This mall embodies our vision of creating sustainable communities that cater to the evolving needs of modern, eco-conscious consumers.” This 214,000 square feet retail destination seamlessly blends retail, dining and recreation within a stunning natural setting. Embracing an open concept design, the mall integrated lush greenery and abundant natural light, harmonising indoor and outdoor spaces. The retail space’s nature-inspired concept is further complemented by its proximity to the sprawling 35-acre Elmina Urban Park and a tranquil lake, creating an inviting and serene atmosphere. This design minimises the need for artificial lighting and climate control, resulting in a lower carbon footprint. ELM also prioritises eco-friendly initiatives, such as recycling segregation and food waste management, and adopts energy-efficient technologies such as solar panels and LED lighting. Additionally, the mall offers amenities such as EV chargers to promote sustainable transportation.   The mall offers a curated selection of over 100 stores and services, including trendy and artisanal dining options, home and living stores, health and wellness centres, edutainment facilities and fashion boutiques. This diverse mix of retailers provides a convenient one-stop destination to shop, play and dine. Shoppers can find everything from groceries at Jaya Grocer to home and IT-related products at Harvey Norman, and enjoy a diverse array of dining options including Kenny Hills Bakers, Sushi Zanmai, Dolly Dim Sum, Jibby Chow, Ole Ole Bali, CHAGEE and Inside Scoop, among many others. The mall also features three drive-through restaurants, adding ease for on-the-go shoppers. Designed to foster community interaction, ELM’s distinctive architectural elements such as accents of red bricks and steel are harmonised with soothing water features that create a contemporary ambiance. This single-level neighbourhood haven is accessible to all visitors, offering ample parking with 693 car bays and 330 motorcycle bays.   ELM also has excellent connectivity via five major highways, namely, the Guthrie Corridor Expressway (“GCE”), Damansara–Shah Alam Elevated Expressway (“DASH”), North-South Expressway (“NSE”), New Klang Valley Expressway (“NKVE”) and Kuala Lumpur–Kuala Selangor Expressway (“LATAR”), positioning it as a key lifestyle destination. In conjunction with the launch, children’s activities, exclusive promotions, redemption offers, and live performances will be available for visitors until 16 September 2024. This will be followed by a series of thoughtfully curated events and programmes throughout the year focusing on community engagement, diversity, and sustainability. For more information about ELM and its multitude of offerings, please visit http://www.elminalakesidemall.com/

Property

Banyan Group Launches Skypark Elara Lakelands at Visionary New Laguna Lakelands in Phuket

SINGAPORE: Banyan Group is launching a new collection of stylish Skypark residences at its pioneering new eco-friendly residential community in Phuket, following the successful sale of the Laguna Lakeview Residences. Skypark Elara Lakelands, which is located on a site adjacent to the Lakeview Residences, with equally serene lagoon views, provides residents with beautifully designed luxury condos that add convenience and style to tropical living. Three blocks of the low-rise seven-storey Skypark Elara Lakelands, totalling around 220 units, are being released in the first phase. Skypark Residences is one of Banyan Group’s contemporary lifestyle brands which allows residents to literally “reach for the sky”, with rooftop living experiences and stunning interiors, in a range of live-in and residential properties across the world’s most premier destinations. The Skypark Residences at Laguna Lakelands represents a significant evolution of the brand, with luxurious fit outs and bigger sizes than previous developments, with units ranging from 54 sqm all the way up to 183 sqm, in one to three-bedroom configurations. Residents at Skypark Elara Lakelands will enjoy exclusive access to leisure facilities on the rooftop including the signature infinity-edge swimming pool with stunning views and an expansive outdoor terrace with a barbecue area, comfortable sitting out spaces and walking paths overlooking the forest and tranquil lagoons. With prices starting from THB 8m, the Skypark Elara Lakelands residences are expected to be swiftly snapped up by buyers from all over the world, like the previously released Laguna Lakeview Residences.   Developed by the Banyan Group, whose iconic Banyan Tree brand has become one of the most admired and successful Asian hospitality brands, Skypark Elara is located at Laguna Lakelands on the Central West coast of Phuket next to Asia’s biggest and most iconic integrated resort, Laguna Phuket, to which residents also have access.   Spanning no less than one million square metres (700 rai or 276 acres) of botanical gardens, parks, rainforest, tranquil lagoons and rolling hills, Laguna Lakelands will be Phuket’s largest private residential community, and a self-contained green sanctuary designed for a new community of global citizens seeking high quality lifestyle balanced by nature.   Designed in a neutral palate of natural woodland colours, the stylish and contemporary Skypark Elara residences are designed to evoke the feeling of being hidden away in the forest, with the interior design reflecting its lush colours and textures. The generously proportioned one, two and three bedroom open-plan configurations ranging from 54 to 183 sqm are ideal for all needs and budgets, and all feature unique foldable “work closets” which have been purpose built for today’s flexible work-from-home lifestyle. Inspired by the colours and textures of the forest, the open and spacious designs accentuate nature and blend harmoniously with the natural tropical garden surroundings. Each has a private balcony and all are set within verdant lawns and parks.   The launch of Skypark Elara Lakelands comes as the Phuket real estate market is booming, fuelled by an increasing desire for families from all over the world to enjoy a second home in Phuket, or even to relocate there.    “We decided to launch Skyark Elara Lakelands now after the strong demand we have seen for the first phase of Lakeview Residences, which has exceeded our own expectations by a long way,” said Banyan Group founder and Executive Chairman KP Ho.    “This latest addition to Laguna Lakelands brings more spacious room configurations than our previous Skypark projects and a brand new attractive design with more elevated materials, which we think will appeal to the many people now looking for a place in Phuket either as a second home or as a primary residence.” “High-quality property is still significantly cheaper in Phuket than in most of the buyer source markets like Hong Kong, Singapore or Europe, which is also an important factor,” he said.    Phuket’s strategic location within 5 or 6 hours flight of over 40% of the world’s population,  its attractive year round climate and world-class international schools and hospitals are also part of its growing attraction. Uniquely for Thailand, the developer also offers financing options which allow owners to purchase residences with staged payments over several years. 

Property

168 Park Selayang Ready to Deliver Vacant Possession of Block C

SELAYANG: The 660 units in Block C of 168 Park Selayang comprising commercial units and designer suites are now completed and ready for vacant possession, with the first letters going out to their respective owners on Aug 30, 2024. “This is truly a major milestone for this maiden project of ours. We were taking over a project that had been abandoned. Our expertise was in construction, not in property development. We are extremely proud to say that we will meet the deadline of delivering the 660 units for Block C on time, as promised. For the affected buyers, who have waited eight to ten years for this day, the wait is finally over,” said 168 Park Selayang Sdn Bhd’s Director of Business Development Mr Lorenz Tong.    168 Park Selayang Sdn Bhd was established by the founders of Infra Segi Sdn Bhd in 2021 after the latter was the approved white knight by the High Court to revive the Selayang Star City project which had been abandoned in 2016. Under the judicial management order (JMO), Block C of 168 Park Selayang is to comprise the units for all the affected buyers of the abandoned Selayang Star City project.     “It is common practice that when a development project gets revived, buyers will be asked to top up on the original purchase price, especially if some time has passed. We decided that we would not place this heavy burden on the affected unit owners,” said Tong.     He also shared that although the JMO only required that the specifications of all affected units be built as per the old sale and purchase (S&P) agreement, 168 Park Selayang decided to showcase its sincerity and workmanship capabilities as a first-time developer by implementing some upgrades to affected units.    “In the original S&P, certain internal floor areas and the balcony were cement rendered only, which we have now upgraded to tiles. Bathroom tiles were originally up to a height of 1500mm, but we have increased it to ceiling height. Air conditioning points which were previously not available, have now also been added,” he said.    Talking about the upgrades, Tong also shared that facilities have been upgraded from 12 to 26 features and that a lift lobby for Block C is also an added feature. The entire facade, which was supposed to be the dated smooth concrete block design, has now been upgraded to spray tiles for a more modern look.    “Depending on the type of unit they originally bought in the previous development, we also provided an extra car park or a larger unit size, without requiring buyers to pay a single cent,” he said.     “I firmly believe we have undertaken every possible care and consideration for Block C unit owners, who were unfairly burdened with worry and uncertainty when the project was abandoned. We want to assure all the affected buyers that 168 Park Selayang is capable, fully committed, and sincere. We are here to do business the right way,” Tong emphasised.    “On our initiative and cost, we engaged an external team to conduct defect checking on all the Block C units that will be handed over soon. We are holding ourselves to high standards of quality delivery for all our customers.”     Block C unit owners can look forward to a smooth process when they finally get the keys to their units, Tong assured.     “This is the very first handover process for 168 Park Selayang. We are committed to making sure we do well. To ensure seamless support throughout the whole process, unit owners can contact our dedicated VP team through 012-3377969,” Tong added.     The original Selayang Star City development, sitting on seven acres of land, comprised three residential blocks with 2,269 designer suites and another block – operated as a hotel – comprising 305 serviced suites. A five-storey mall with a net lettable area of 550,000 sq ft (square feet) would be situated under the hotel block.     The redesigned 168 Park Selayang has a gross development value of RM945 million and consists of three residential towers, a four-acre facility floor on Level 9, and a two-storey community mall with a total lettable area of 235,500 sq ft.     Lush Residence, or Block A, has a total of 477 units with built-ups ranging from 560 sq ft to 1,050 sq ft and prices starting at RM294,000. Block A has achieved a 90 per cent take-up rate and targets to complete by 3Q2025.    Bole Residence, or Block B, is a 49-storey tower comprising 956 units with built-ups ranging from 674 sq ft to 1,074 sq ft and prices starting at RM397,000. Block B has achieved a 45 percent take-up rate and construction has just begun. Bole Residence is the tallest building in Bandar Selayang, Selangor and is targeted for handover by 2Q2026.    Tong shared that the mall, which includes 850 parking spaces has a net lettable area of 235,000 square feet, which is significantly less than the 550,000 sq ft in the original Selayang Star City development. The opening date of the mall is targeted for 11th November 2024.    168 Park Selayang is easily accessible via Jalan Ipoh, Jalan Kuching, Middle Ring Road 2, DUKE, and Kepong-Selayang highway. 

News, Property

PKNS-HCK Capital Group to Develop Smart City e.Sentral in Subang Perdana

SUNGAI BULOH: The Selangor State Development Corporation (PKNS) will jointly develop the e.Sentral smart city project with property developer HCK Capital Group Bhd as part of a move towards building low-carbon cities. PKNS Deputy Chief Executive Officer (Development) Md Kamarzan Md Rais said the ‘mixed-used development’ in Subang Perdana will be developed on 4.05 hectares (10 acres) with environmental, social and governance (ESG) elements. “This is our first collaboration with HCK and this is their first smart city project,” he said, adding that the Selangor state developer will have a 30% stake with the development executed according to mutually agreed plans. “PKNS always welcomes cooperation with other developers to develop smart cities with various facilities,” he said at the groundbreaking ceremony. HCK Group Managing Director Datuk Dr Dennis Ling said the project will have 2 phases with the first phase to begin next month. “The entire project is expected to be completed within 3 and a half years. We are offering 3,000 units (housing and shop lots) for both phases at an offer price of between RM300,000 and RM550,000. “PKNS brings expertise in developing sustainable communities, while HCK contributes its smart technology and eco-friendly design. Together, we are setting new standards for smart cities,” he said. “Subang Perdana was selected because of its strategic location to forested areas and its development will be part of our low-carbon city plan,” he added. The e.Sentral development will offer advanced features including care plate recognition at barrier gates, facial recognition in lobbies and motion sensor technology to reduce energy consumption. — BERNAMA

Property

Christie’s International Real Estate Enters Singapore as Luxury Brand Continues Expansion in Southeast Asia

SINGAPORE: Christie’s International Real Estate, a global leader in luxury real estate, has officially launched in Singapore, marking a significant milestone in its Southeast Asia expansion strategy. Operating from a newly refurbished historic shophouse on China Street in Singapore’s Central Business District (CBD), Christie’s International Real Estate Singapore will specialise in residential brokerage services with a focus on Singapore’s well-established luxury real estate market. It will also assist Singapore-based capital, both individual and institutional, with investing in real estate opportunities around the world through the brand’s extensive global network. The firm is led by Singapore-based Harmeet Singh Bedi & Dipika Bedi, and Himmat & Rohini Singh, longtime owners of Christie’s International Real Estate’s affiliate in India. The team brings a wealth of experience to this new venture. Himmat and Rohini Singh each have over 25 years of experience in luxury real estate, while Harmeet Singh Bedi has more than 30 years of banking and real estate investment management expertise, including a decade in C-suite roles, most recently as CEO of Singapore-based Prime US REIT Management Pte. Ltd. Dipika Bedi complements the team with over 20 years of experience in advertising, marketing, art sales, and event management. The business partners will re-introduce Christie’s International Real Estate under new ownership and management to the Singapore market, where luxury real estate has experienced over a decade of continuous growth. Singapore’s high standard of living, stable political environment, robust economy, and favourable tax policies continue to attract a steady stream of buyers and investors, reinforcing the strong long-term growth fundamentals of the luxury real estate market.  For instance, single-family homes, especially the highly coveted Good Class Bungalows (GCBs) which typically feature land sizes exceeding 15,000 square feet, are valued between S$35 million and S$65 million, which is reflective of Singapore’s reputation as one of the most prestigious real estate markets in the world. Notable developments further solidify Singapore’s position as a prime destination for luxury real estate. The exclusive 32 Gilstead in District 11, which has seen units sell for S$14 million each, and the recent en bloc sale of Kew Lodge on Kheam Hock Road for S$66.8 million, further emphasise the escalating value of prime land in this highly desirable district. Additionally, the redevelopment of 19 Nassim by Keppel Land in the prestigious Nassim neighbourhood underscores the sustained demand for luxury properties in Singapore’s most sought-after areas. Upcoming launches in Marina Bay and River Valley highlight the ongoing vibrancy and allure of Singapore’s high-end real estate market, reinforcing its status as a premier destination for luxury investments. “Singapore is a tight-knit, highly capitalised, and brand-conscious luxury real estate market, with buyers and sellers who expect the highest level of service—exactly what Christie’s International Real Estate provides,” said Harmeet Singh Bedi, Managing Director, Christie’s International Real Estate Singapore. “We are confident that discerning clientele from Singapore and the region will appreciate the brand’s tailored service and international network.” “The current dynamism and potential in Singapore’s luxury residential real estate market, combined with the increasing need for global investment opportunities from both individual and institutional capital based in Singapore, makes this the perfect time to reintroduce the Christie’s International Real Estate brand here,” adds Himmat Singh, joint Managing Director, Christie’s International Real Estate Singapore. “Rohini and I are excited to expand our long-standing partnership with Christie’s International Real Estate. With the brand’s world-class marketing, unmatched international network, and commitment to premier service, we’re bringing the most recognised and trusted name in luxury real estate to one of the most sophisticated real estate markets in the world” Christie’s International Real Estate Singapore will offer national and international exposure for listings through the Christie’s International Real Estate network, which has brokerages in nearly 50 countries and territories. Clients will also gain access to exclusive marketing partnerships and a relationship with the iconic Christie’s auction house for the sale of fine art and luxury goods, including wine and watches. Christie’s International Real Estate maintains a close relationship with Christie’s auction house, enabling clients on both sides to leverage the unique synergies between the worlds of high-end real estate, art, and luxury items. “As we expand our presence in Southeast Asia, we see great potential for the Christie’s International Real Estate brand in Singapore, especially with Harmeet and Himmat at the helm”, said Helena Moyas de Forton, Managing Director, Head of EMEA and APAC at Christie’s International Real Estate. “Their extensive industry experience, unrivalled knowledge of Singapore’s real estate market, and commitment to bespoke, first-class service will make Christie’s International Real Estate Singapore the firm of choice for Singapore’s luxury real estate clientele.” Christie’s International Real Estate has affiliates throughout Asia, including in Dubai, India, Taiwan, Vietnam, and Japan.

News, Property

Lexis Hotel Group Launches KL’s Latest Iconic Landmark, Imperial Lexis

KUALA LUMPUR: Imperial Lexis Kuala Lumpur by Lexis Hotel Group has officially opened its doors, setting a new standard for opulent living and world-class hospitality and is poised to become the city’s latest iconic landmark. In a statement, the group said that the 53-storey hotel is the only one in Kuala Lumpur to feature a private pool in each of its 275 serviced rooms and suites. The property integrates eco-friendly materials in its amenities and packaging, while also incorporating energy-efficient technologies, allowing guests to indulge in luxury with a minimal environmental footprint. “Embracing innovation, Imperial Lexis Kuala Lumpur champions the use of technology in its daily operations, offering seamless mobile check-in via tablets and mobile devices, effectively reducing the reliance on printed materials. “This forward-thinking approach ensures a stay that is both sophisticated and sustainable,” Lexis Group said. — BERNAMA

Investment & Market Trends, Property

Mah Sing Group Berhad’s Budget 2025 Wishlist

In light of Malaysia’s robust economic performance and buoyant property market, Mah Sing, under the leadership of Tan Sri Dato’ Sri Leong Hoy Kum, Founder and Group Managing Director, has outlined a strategic wishlist aimed at bolstering the country’s housing sector and fostering economic growth. As Malaysia’s economy expanded by 5.9% in the second quarter of 2024, driven by increased household spending and favourable labour market conditions, Mah Sing underscores the pivotal role of government support in sustaining this momentum. The property landscape has shown significant resilience, with over 104,000 transactions recorded in the first quarter of 2024—a 17% surge from the previous year—indicating robust market demand and economic vitality. Against this backdrop, Mah Sing emphasizes the importance of proactive governmental measures to sustain the sector’s growth trajectory and support broader economic recovery efforts. Key Proposals for Budget 2025   Revival of the Home Ownership Campaign (HOC) Mah Sing advocates for reinstating the Home Ownership Campaign, citing its pivotal role in facilitating home purchases and reducing housing overhang. The proposal includes reinstating incentives such as a 100% stamp duty exemption for properties priced between RM300,001 to RM1 million and offering a 10% discount on property purchase prices for first-time homebuyers. One-off First-Time Home Buyers’ Grant and Lower Fixed-Rate Financing To alleviate financial barriers for first-time buyers, Mah Sing proposes a one-off First-Time Home Buyers’ Grant of RM30,000 for properties priced up to RM500,000. Coupled with lower fixed-rate financing options, these initiatives aim to enhance affordability and stability in urban housing markets. Re-introduction of Tax Deduction for Housing Loan Interest The reintroduction of tax deductions for housing loan interest is highlighted as a critical measure to support new homeowners. Previously implemented from 2009-2010, this policy allowed deductions of up to RM10,000 per year on interest paid for housing loans over three years, significantly easing financial burdens and encouraging property investments. Reduction of Compliance Costs and Streamlining Approval Processes Mah Sing urges the government to reduce compliance costs and streamline approval processes to mitigate development expenses and housing costs. Proposed measures include reducing development charges, lowering land conversion premiums, and exempting utility contribution charges. Simplifying regulatory frameworks would expedite project timelines and enhance affordability for homebuyers. Incentives for Green Building and Sustainable Development In alignment with Malaysia’s environmental goals, Mah Sing proposes enhanced tax reliefs and grants for developers adopting green building technologies and sustainable practices. These incentives aim to accelerate the adoption of eco-friendly construction methods, supporting Malaysia’s commitment to carbon neutrality by 2050 and promoting sustainable urban development. Mah Sing’s Budget 2025 wishlist underscores the synergistic relationship between robust governmental support and sustained economic growth in Malaysia’s property sector. By implementing these proposals, the government can stimulate homeownership, reduce housing affordability barriers, and foster a resilient property market that contributes positively to Malaysia’s economic development and societal well-being.

ESG, News, Property

BDB, Seterra Collaborates to Develop Elder Care Project in Langkawi

KUALA LUMPUR: Property developer Bina Darulaman Bhd (BDB) has embarked on a new business venture in partnership with the Seterra group to meet the increasing demand for elder care services in Malaysia. BDB Executive Director, Raja Shahreen Raja Othman announced that the initiative, dubbed Aman Seterra Sanctuary is set to launch in 2 years in Langkawi. The 5.36-hectare development will be located in Kuala Temoyong, Langkawi. He said BDB had previously explored opportunities in the hospitality sector such as hotels and resorts in Langkawi. “However, we realised that our partner, the Seterra group, is more focused on elderly care services. “After reassessing, we decided to shift our focus. We considered whether Langkawi could offer something more aligned with elderly care concepts,” he said. Raja Shahreen noted that Langkawi’s demographic includes many foreigners from Europe, the Middle East, Russia, Japan, and other countries who stay for extended periods to escape harsh climates. “Langkawi offers a unique appeal for such visitors, and we wanted to capitalise on this. So, we analysed the market and developed a concept catering to these international visitors who want to stay longer in Langkawi. “For the international market, we are focusing on the Japanese and European markets as they tend to live longer and have the budget to spend. Thus, there is a market for this in the elder care segment. However, our overall target market will include both local and international clients,” he said. He said BDB is close to launching the initiative near the navy base in Langkawi. “If everything goes as planned, we intend to have a soft launch in May 2025 during the Langkawi International Maritime and Aerospace Exhibition 2025 (LIMA 2025). “This venture with the Seterra group is about offering a unique blend of ageing care and lifestyle services, catering to those who seek relaxation and care in a tropical setting. “We aim to provide not only elderly care but also tailored experiences that suit the preferences of long-term visitors, such as gardening or golfing,” Raja Shahreen added. Regarding investment, he said BDB has significant land assets in Langkawi and plans to develop and utilise these properties further. “We are also evaluating how to balance insurance, medical care and other essential services for our target market. “In the future, we hope to collaborate with various agencies and partners to ensure a comprehensive care model. We are keen on working with insurance providers and exploring partnerships to address the needs of our clients effectively,” he said. Raja Shahreen noted that the ageing care sector in Malaysia is evolving with a growing demand for such specialised services. “We believe that our approach will fill a niche in the market and contribute positively to the company’s revenue stream,” he added. — BERNAMA

News, Property

IOI Properties Acquiring Gardens Mall is Opportunistic Move

KUALA LUMPUR: Kenanga Investment Bank Bhd believes IOI Properties Group Bhd’s acquisition of the loss-making Tropicana Gardens Mall from Tropicana Indah Sdn Bhd is an opportunity for the property developer. The investment bank said IOI Properties is acquiring the mall for RM680 million, a 28% discount to book value or replacement cost of RM943.6 million. Tropicana Indah Sdn Bhd is a 70%-owned indirect subsidiary of Tropicana Corp Bhd. Tropicana Gardens Mall was only profitable for one year following its opening in March 2020. “It only made RM500,000 in the financial year 2021 (FY2021) but was in the red in FY2020 (-RM30.1 million), FY2022 (-RM11.9 million) and FY2023 (-RM16 million),” said Kenanga Investment Bank. In a research note, Kenanga Investment Bank said the intention to turn the loss-making mall around was backed by the IOI Properties’ multi-decade experience in developing and managing shopping malls. “The acquisition will increase the group’s net gearing of 0.73 times as at the end of March 2024 to 0.76 times, which is still manageable. “While we expect the mall to remain in the red over the immediate term, it is unlikely to put a significant dent in IOI Properties’ profits,” it said. Kenanga Investment Bank also maintained its ‘underperform’ call on IOI Properties, with a target price of RM1.75. “Maintaining revalued net asset value – target price (RNAV-TP) of RM1.75 based on a 60% discount to its RNAV, in like with assumption for the property sector,” it added. — BERNAMA

Scroll to Top

Subscribe
FREE Newsletter