the champion of affordable...

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THE BRANDLAUREATE • BUSINESS WORLD REVIEW DECEMBER-JANUARY ‘16 #ISSUE31

COVER STORY

Helming the success of the company is the astute Managing Director Tan Sri Lim Hock San and his visionary leadership. Looking calm and in control, Lim seemed unperturbed by the speculation of property slump, due to the current economic climate, and negative reports in social media.

Looking far into the horizon, Lim is optimistic and believes there is always a silver lining, which is the vision the company has held for years – Believe, Become, Behold; and he believes that the country is not in such a bad shape afterall despite the naysayers. Lim said: “Decent, affordable, and secure homes are fundamental to family and community life. This has propelled LBS to do everything we can to ensure this project provides opportunities for Malaysians to have a home that is not only strategically located, but comfortable and at the same time a valuable asset for the family,

“At LBS, we believe that property development is never just about bricks and mortar, it is about providing the means for fellow Malaysians to fulfil their inherent quest for betterment - to reach for higher quality of living, better experiences, peace of mind and the need to belong in a better community,” as he outlined their mission statement:

“Our Vision: To be an internationally recognised developer enhancing community living by building and inspiring delightful spaces, and

Our Mission: To consistently deliver exceptional performance through progressive creations, realising value to all stakeholders and enriching communities at large.”

THE BEGINNINGThe LBS journey began in the 80s as a construction business, inspired by the vision of its founder Dato’ Seri Lim Bock Seng. After a decade of rapid growth, LBS ventured into the property development sector in 1992 where it started its first project of Jelapang Maju Light Industrial Park in Ipoh. Lim joined the family business soon after completing his BSc Civil Engineering with 1st Class Hons 1982 from University of Wales. Recounting his early days, Lim said he helped his dad to collect debts around Taman Cempaka area. “As I moved around, I saw a big demand for affordable properties amongst the low and medium income group and I thought we should take the business upstream into property development. Although it was challenging, we slowly worked our way there, and there was no turning back since ”.

Another project by LBS in the early years was the 70-acre industrial park in Seri Kembangan which was completed within 5 years, and they soon began to invest in more land as the demand for property increased, and built many houses in Seri Kembangan and Balakong areas. Within a few years, its stable of projects established LBS as a reputable developer and a dominant player the Malaysian property sector.

AFFORDABLE HOMESThe Champion of

BY GERALD CHUAH

LEADING PROPERTY DEVELOPER, LBS BINA GROUP BERHAD (LBS) STARTED FROM HUMBLE BEGINNINGS AS A SMALL CONSTRUCTION COMPANY 33 YEARS AGO, BY A FAMILY OF FOUR BROTHERS. TODAY IT IS ONE OF THE MOST SUCCESSFUL DEVELOPERS IN MALAYSIA, HAVING BUILT MORE 30,000 HOMES OVER THE PAST THREE DECADES AND STILL GOING STRONG - HITTING THEIR CURRENT TARGET OF RM1 BILLION IN PROPERTY SALES IN 2015.

LEADING PROPERTY DEVELOPER, LBS BINA GROUP BERHAD (LBS) STARTED FROM HUMBLE BEGINNINGS AS A SMALL CONSTRUCTION COMPANY 33 YEARS AGO, BY A FAMILY OF FOUR BROTHERS. TODAY IT IS ONE OF THE MOST SUCCESSFUL DEVELOPERS IN MALAYSIA, HAVING BUILT MORE 30,000 HOMES OVER THE PAST THREE DECADES AND STILL GOING STRONG - HITTING THEIR CURRENT TARGET OF RM1 BILLION IN PROPERTY SALES IN 2015.

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Soon the name LBS became popular amongst the residents and many people were happy with the quality of homes built, as the company gained a foothold amongst the Chinese community there. Part of the credit goes to the visionary patriarch of LBS, having groomed, educated, and instilled in his family the values of respect, hard work with good business acumen as well as giving back to community.

“In the 80s, we built low to medium cost houses all the way, and we were known as `Champion of middle-cost houses’ but today we focus more on affordable and medium cost houses, depending on the location. When we started, we tried to convince people to buy our houses, but today, we don’t need to do that anymore because people know who we are. We take pride in building affordable homes, but there must also be profit,” added Lim.

BRAND LEADERSHIPOn December 6, 2001, Lim was appointed Managing Director of LBS Bina Group Berhad (LBS). His excellent business foresights, technical expertise and 33 years of management experience have well positioned him as the Key Leader.

Under Lim’s capable leadership, LBS and its subsidiaries (Group) have grown and developed as one of the major players in property development, and was listed on the main market of Bursa Malaysia Securities Berhad in 2002.

In 2003, LBS went through a major restructuring and that’s when he appointed his dad as the chairman. Since then, the group has re-strategised their business model, launching a brand new image, identity, and direction as part of its long term objective to be an internationally recognised developer, building inspiring lifestyle spaces that enhance community living. As a leader, Lim believes that business, friendship and family are separate matters, and the best decisions must be made for the sake of the company.

Today, LBS has grown tremendously, and will further rebrand itself in line with its aggressive growth and expansion drive. To mark this new direction, LBS extended its portfolio of quality homes to the high-end market and has embarked on a progressive journey of change, which includes the areas of product, customer experience, after-sales services, sustainability, green technology and design.

Over the years, Lim has seen property prices increase several folds and even weathered the storm during the economic downturn in 2007. Things have never been same since then. “At the turn of the millennium, you could still buy a house for less than RM100,000, and even as low as RM60,000 but those days are gone now. Today we focus on mid to high price properties from bungalows to condominiums costing RM500,000 and above.”

Presently, LBS is engaged in the development of residential and commercial properties primarily in Malaysia. It also offers turfing and landscape contracting, insurance agency, building, project planning, implementation contracting, project consultancy and civil engineering services.

With currently 17 projects at hand, Lim is taking things in his stride and not unduly worried about the property outlook despite warnings of market slum ahead. He said many people have warned him, including his father that next year will be a tough year in the property market.

“So what if times are bad? Sit down and do nothing?” he retorted, choosing to remain optimistic as the Chinese saying goes: “There is always a Better Tomorrow”.

NOTABLE AWARDSOver the years, Lim has also won many international awards for his outstanding entrepreneurship, leadership and achievements in raising the profile of the company in the country and abroad. On November 5, 2015, he received the The BrandLaureate Lifetime Achievement Brand ICON Leadership Award 2015. Held at The Majestic Hotel Kuala Lumpur, The BrandLaureate is a prestigious leadership award to honour individuals who take on the baton and drive their organizations and countries to greater heights.

On top of that, Lim was conferred the Lifetime Achievement Award for Leadership in Enhancing Relations with China (Guangdong Province) at the World Chinese Economic Summit 2015 held at Savoy Hotel, London from November 10-12, 2015. The award by WCES serves to honour individuals who have made significant fundamental contributions in their respective field of work. In respect of his endeavours in China, the award recognizes Lim for enhancing bilateral relations with China, especially Guangdong Province. The award was presented by Sultan of Perak, Dr. Nazrin Muizzuddin Shah and former President of Indonesia, Susilo Bambang. This prestigious annual event brought together over 200 policy-makers, entrepreneurs, researchers and thought-leaders from all around the world.

In June 2015, Lim was among 24 people to receive the Darjah Panglima Setia Mahkota (PSM) which carries the title “Tan Sri” in conjunction with the official birthday of the Yang di-Pertuan Agong Tuanku Abdul Halim Mu’adzam Shah.

Lim said: “We are delighted and honoured to have received these awards over the years. This recognition proves that we are on the right track to achieve our vision as an internationally recognised developer. This inspires us to continue building a place that is comfortable, safe, and secure for our prospects - a place called home,” said Lim.

In the 80s, we built low to medium cost houses all the

way, and we were known as `Champion of middle-cost houses’ but today we focus more on affordable and medium cost houses,

depending on the location. When we started, we tried to convince people to buy our houses, but today, we don’t need to do that anymore

because people know who we are. We take pride in

building affordable homes, but there must also be profit.

images:01)Tan Sri Lim Hock San winning The BrandLaureate Hall of Fame

Lifetime Achievement Brand ICON Leadership 201502) Tan Sri Lim Hock San is presented the WCES award by HRH Sultan Nazrin Muizzuddin Shah,

Sultan of Perak Darul Ridzuan, Malaysia (second from left) & H. E. Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono, Former President of Indonesia (second from right). Also in the picture are Tan Sri Lee Kim Yew,

Co-Founder and Patron of WCES (most left) and Tan Sri Dr. Jeffrey Cheah, Chairman of ASLI and Sunway Group (most right)

image:The aeriel view of BSP21 serviced residence during the day

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FUTURE PLANS2015 has been an exciting year for the family and the company. On the family turf, the chairman Dato’ Seri Lim Bock Seng and Datin Seri Liew Sok Boon celebrated their 65th wedding anniversary on June 6, 2015. The couple have led the family through good times and bad, and today their greatest joy is centered around their 10 children and their families, which include 49 grandchildren and 15 great grandchildren. They celebrated marital bliss with family members, relatives and friends at SJK (C) Sungai Way convention hall. The reason for not celebrating the event at a major hotel is because they were brought up here - Sungai Way, from courtship to starting their big family. This is a place rich with the fondest memories.

On the business front, LBS announced their ambitious planned to line up RM6 billion worth of new projects with a series of aggressive expansion activities to be launched in the next three years. In its continuous effort to create living spaces to enhance communities, LBS plans to launch 12 projects for 2016 in various parts of the country. These new projects are mainly featured in the Group’s key development areas namely Bandar Saujana Putra and D’ Island Residence in Klang Valley, Cameron Highland in Pahang, as well as Batu Pahat in Johor. Among the exciting projects include BSP Village Shop Offices and BSP21 serviced residence in Bandar Saujana Putra, Corallia semi-detached homes, Skyvilla condominium, and D’ Island Residence amongst others.

images :BSP21-Entrance View and BSP Village-Boulevard View

2015 has been a good year for LBS. We achieved RM234 million of sales in the first

quarter, which is an increase of 38 per cent over the same

period last year. This year, we outperform and achieved

RM1 billion of sales by November, which is our sales

target for 2015.

Lim said: “2015 has been a good year for LBS. We achieved RM234 million of sales in the first quarter, which is an increase of 38 per cent over the same period last year. This year, we outperform and achieved RM1 billion of sales by November, which is our sales target for 2015. The stellar performance of 2015 was mainly due to the overwhelming response from the Corallia semi-detached homes and Skyvilla condominium in D’ Island Residence and BSP21 serviced residence in Bandar Saujana Putra which is affordably priced. These sought-after developments are strategically located and contributed 84 per cent of the total sales as at November 2015.

LBS reported revenue of RM 668 million for its financial year ended December 31, 2014, up 20 per cent as compared to the RM 534 million reported a year ago. “For this, we are confident and bullish that with the new launches over the next three years, worth RM 6 billion, we can further demonstrate our commitment towards a sustainable business that contributes towards the social and economic development of the country.”

In 2015, the projects totalled 2,600 units with a GDV of RM1.7 billion. It is projected in 2016, some 4,000 units will be launched in Selangor, Pahang, and Johor with a total GDV of RM2 billion; and another 5,100 units by 2017 with a GDV of RM2.2 billion, bringing the grand total to RM6 billion in three years.

FLAGSHIP PROJECTS:• BANDAR SAUJANA PUTRA (BSP)Launched in 2003, LBS’s flagship development, Bandar Saujana Putra (BSP) is a self-sustainable township located at a strategic location near Petaling Jaya and Kuala Lumpur. It is a self-contained, matured township with approximately 8,400 properties completed to-date with a population of 30,000, and still growing. The well-planned township offers modern style living in an exclusive yet affordable setting which makes it very attractive to homebuyers with accessibility to education, commercial and leisure establishments, as well as infrastructure and amenities such as schools, hospitals, recreational parks, shopping centres and hypermarkets.

This is one of the projects that Lim is most proud of, as it caters to the middle income group. He said: “We managed to turn a huge piece of deserted land into a residential hub. We even built a road interchange there”. Today, Bandar Saujana Putra is the hub for education, commercial and leisure as well as residence to form a modern township, equipped with fully developed first-class infrastructure and amenities.

“We believe in making Bandar Saujana Putra a connected community, not just connected to all other major locations in Klang Valley, but a township that is connected to the future,” added Lim. BSP is also strategically located in the southern corridor of Klang Valley, and is easily accessible via Puchong and several

For this, we are confident and bullish that with

new launches over the next three years, worth RM 6 billion, we can

further demonstrate our commitment towards

a sustainable business that contributes towards the social and economic development of Malaysia.

ENTREPRENEURSHIP/ LEADERSHIP AWARDS: 1. 2014: International Alternative Investment Review (IAIR) – Best Company for Leadership of Property Development 2. 2012: Asia Pacific Entrepreneur Awards 2012 – Entrepreneur of the Year Award 3. 2011: SME Recognition Award 2011 – Platinum Entrepreneur Award 2011

CORPORATE AWARDS: 1. 2015: Asia Pacific Property Awards 2015 – 2016 a.Title: Best Architecture Single Residence Malaysia Project: Barrington Homes Star: 5 stars

b. Title: Best Development Marketing Malaysia Project: BSP Township Star: 5 stars

c. Title: Apartment Malaysia Project: BSP21 Star: Highly Commended

2. 2014: Asia Pacific Property Awards 2014 – 2015 a. Title: Best Residential Development Asia Pacific Project: Skyvilla@ D’ Island Residence

b. Title: Best Residential Development Malaysia Project: Skyvilla @ D’ Island Residence Star: Highly Commended

c. Title: Interior Design Show Home Malaysia Project: Nautilus @ D’ Island Residence Star: Highly Commended

3. 2013: Asia Pacific Property Awards 2013 – 2014 a. Title: Best Interior Design Show Home Malaysia Project: Balvia @ D’ Island Residence Star: 5 stars

b. Title: Development Multiple Units Malaysia Project: Apicalia @ D’ Island Residence Star: Highly Commended

c. Title: Development Marketing Malaysia Project: D’ Island Residence Star: Highly Commended

4. 2013: Malaysia PR Awards 2012 a. Title: Corporate Branding Campaign of The Year Project: Corporate Rebranding Exercise Star: Honourable Mention

5. 2013: Marketing Excellence Awards 2013 a. Title: Excellence in Product/Packaging Design Project: Cameron Golden Hills (The Way Life Should Be) Star: Bronze

b. Title: Excellence in Public Relations (Internal/ Employee) Communication Project: LBS Corporate Rebranding Exercise Star: Bronze

6. 2013: Property Press Awards 2013 a. Title: Best Urbanic Scenic Development Project: D’ Island Residence

7. 2011: BCI Asia Top 10 Developers 2011

images :1) Lim Associations

2) Tan Sri Lim Hock San visiting project sites

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LBS BINA GROUP BERHAD’S AWARDS & ACCOLADES:

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major highways -- the New Klang Valley Expressway (NKVE), Lebuhraya Damansara-Puchong (LDP), Maju Expressway (MEX) and North-South Expressway (ELITE). It only takes minutes to reach Petaling Jaya, Sunway, USJ. Subang Jaya, Shah Alam, Puchong, Seri Kembangan, Cyberjaya and Putrajaya.

• BSP21 Serviced Residence - Located at Bandar Saujana Putra, this high-rise residential development incorporates the most extensive range of lifestyle-inspired facilities and infrastructures that Bandar Saujana Putra has to offer. This project comprises 10 blocks of serviced residences, and is situated on a 21-acre piece of land within BSP township designed for singles and young families, offering an extensive range of lifestyle-inspired facilities with over 70 fitness and recreational amenities for residents of all ages, designed to inspire creativity, active, healthy lifestyle and community for urban living. It was the main sales contributor in 2015 with the launch of new phases for BSP 21 serviced residences and BSP Village shop offices.

• RUMAH SELANGORKU - This is an affordable housing project, located in the flagship BSP neighbourhood and was officiated by Y.A.B Tuan Mohamed Azmin Bin Ali, Dato’ Menteri Besar of Selangor Darul Ehsan, this May. The 5-block, 12 and 13-storey apartment comprising 1,312 housing units and 24 shop units, is built to help lower and middle income earners to own houses at reasonable prices, in line with the state government’s commitment to build more affordable homes in Selangor.

Lim said: “Every person needs a place to call home and this affordable home supports the state government’s effort in realizing the goal of providing affordably priced homes for every family”. LBS is happy to partner with the state government on this programme, and thanked Y.A.B Tuan Mohamed Azmin Bin Ali, Dato’ Menteri Besar of Selangor Darul Ehsan for officiating the event, in line with LBS’s commitment to address homeownership gap amongst first time home buyers and the rising cost of living. “We are truly delighted to witness the extraordinary response by the public during the launch. We believe that Rumah Selangorku will open doors of homeownership for more first-time homebuyers, from young graduates and the middle income group, to realize their dream of home ownership at an affordable price.”

With a selling price of RM 150,000 and RM 180,000, for 800 sq feet and 900 sq feet respectively, the total gross development value (GDV) of the project is RM 234 million. The project is also blessed with a wide range of amenities and infrastructure in Bandar Saujana Putra, LBS’s self-contained township - and easily accessible to major cities around Klang Valley as well as Kuala Lumpur International Airport. Among the criteria for eligibility are: one must be a Malaysian citizen above 18 years old, household monthly income of RM3,001- RM8,000, applicant (husband/wife) does not own any type of property in Selangor, single/unmarried applicant with family commitments may apply. The purchase of residence is strictly for own stay, and transfer of ownership is only allowed after 5 years.

• D’ ISLAND RESIDENCE - This is another unique project that LBS is working on. It is surrounded by the scenic lakes of Puchong; a habitat born of a vision of exquisite living for the privileged few. Imagine luxury homes nestled amidst lush blooms and natural flora. Lim said, “Imagine jogging past a scenic lake with your children, a life of complete serenity and security. This is another quality home development, made unique due to its prime location, about 15 minutes from the capital of Kuala Lumpur.”

• SKYVILLA – The first condominium project set within the idyllic enclave of D’ Island Residence, Skyvilla delivers an island-themed contemporary living experience surrounded by lakes. Close to various commercial centres, this project has an easy access to many important highways within the Klang Valley.

• CORALLIA – Free from high-rise development within the parcel in Puchong, Corallia offers ideal homes for families that look particularly for exclusivity and privacy. Designed with contemporary modern facade with spacious layout, this landed property is an idyllic getaway.

• BARRINGTON HOMES - This award-winning 2-storey semi-detached home with Tudor country-style luxury and modernity is located in the township of Cameron Golden Hills. It is designed as the ideal getaway from the hustle and bustle of city life, so that the entire family can enjoy a retreat for family bonding.

We are truly delighted to witness the extraordinary response by the public during the launch. We believe that Rumah Selangorku will open doors for homeownership amongst first-time homebuyers, from young graduates to

the middle income group, to realize their dream of property ownership at an affordable price.

images :1) D’ Island Residence Aerial View ( Night)2) Corallia Elevated facade view and street view

We believe in making Bandar Saujana Putra a

connected community, not just connected to all other major locations in Klang

Valley, but a township that is connected to the future.

images :1) BSP Rumah Selangorku was officially launched by Y.A.B. Tuan Mohamed Azmin Bin Ali, Dato’ Menteri Besar of Selangor, Tan Sri Lim Hock San, Managing Director of LBS, Dato’ Noordin bin Sulaiman, Selangor State Financial

Officer, Dato’ Iskandar bin Abdul Samad, Selangor Housing, Building Management and Urban Life Executive Councillor, Datuk Wira Joey Lim Hock Guan, Executive Director of LBS.

2) Group photo taken during the Launch of BSP21.3) Tan Sri Lim Hock San visiting project sites

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images :1) Dato’ Seri Lim Bock Seng, Chairman of LBS Bina Group Berhad

together with his four sons contributed to PIBG Sungai Way during the launch of LBS Foundation.

2)The signing of MoU by Datuk Wira Lim Hock Guan (second from right) & YB Datuk Wira Hj Naim Bin Abu Bakar (second from left) and

witnessed by Chief Minister of Melaka, Datuk Seri lr. Hj. Idris bin Hj. Haron (third from left) and Tan Sri Lim Hock San (third from right) at

Chief Minister’s office at Ayer Keroh, Melaka

images :1) LBS contributed RM 120,000 at the 32nd Kiwanis Motor Treasure Hunt 2015 in support of the Kiwanis Down Syndrome Foundation. 2) LBS sponsored the STEP-UP Programme by The Star for 3 consecutive years. (Below, from left) The principal of SJK (C) Sungai Way, Datuk Seri Wong Chun Wai, Managing Director of Star Publications (M) Bhd, Tan Sri Lim Hock San, Managing Director of LBS, Puan Sri Karen Lim, wife of Tan Sri Lim Hock San.

Other property projects in the pipeline include: Midhills at Genting Resort-Style development, Somer Homes 2-storey semi-detached homes, Ivory Garden 2 double-storey terrace house, Royal Garden double-storey semi-D from Batu Pahat, 2 & 3 storey shop office from BSP Village @ ONE BSP, Sinaran Mahkota latest social hotspot in Kuantan, High Rise - Bandar Saujana Putra and BSP Rumah Selangorku.

BRIDGE TO CHINAIn April 2015, Lamdeal Investments Limited, a wholly-owned subsidiary of LBS signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Chief Minister of Melaka to establish a cultural museum in China. The Made-In-Malaysia Excellence exhibition hall one-stop centre within Zhuhai International Circuit (ZIC), will showcase the heritage and culture of Melaka. ZIC, is a joint effort between Lamdeal and Zhuhai Jiuzhou Holdings Group Limited, a Zhuhai state-owned enterprise, which was formed in 1992.

ZIC is in the process of upgrading into an integrated modern mixed commercial development. The cultural museum and exhibition hall will be built to showcase the rich heritage and significant culture and customs of Melaka to Guangdong Province, People’s Republic of China (PRC).

Lim said: “This is a good platform to build the bilateral diplomatic ties between Malaysia and China in line with the 21st Century Maritime Silk Road strategy introduced by China’s President Xi Jinping, and the strategic location of Guangdong being an important province in the forefront of commerce, culture and politics. We believe this friendly cooperation, will further promote Malaysia’s tourism and attract more investment to the country.”

Lim said LBS is happy to be able to play the bridging role to build stronger ties between both countries through the “One-Stop Centre” to smoothen the flow of information on tourism, trade and cultural activities for Melaka in the Guangdong Province in China. LBS is also the management company of the Zhuhai International Circuit, a prestigious car racing site of international recognition, which is visited by people from around the world.

GIVING BACK TO SOCIETYLaunched on June 6, 2015, LBS Foundation is a corporate social responsibility platform for the Group to accelerate their ongoing efforts to give back to the community - improve the quality of life and benefit the community at large. So far, it has contributed a total of RM400,000 to 20 organizations and associations.

As an advocate of social and community work, Lim’s leadership and commitment to philanthropic causes is reflected in his position on various board of charitable organizations. Lim said: “LBS Foundation aspires to create a strong and harmonious society by improving the well-being of the community, and promoting a sustainable development where we can provide, promote, assist and enlist positive actions towards making a sustained positive impact,

“When my father, Dato’ Seri Lim Bock Seng started his entrepreneurial journey in 1961, he believes it is apt to seek better ways to give back to the community, and the belief was nurtured in me since young. He once said to me. “Giving back to the community essential.”

“Now, as we approach 55 years since the company was established, it is our commitment to build a better community together, and give back to the community where we come from and where our business is located,” he said, adding that the foundation’s launch is extra meaningful for the family, as it coincides with the 65th wedding anniversary of their parents!

Over the years, many people have benefited from charitable efforts made by LBS, and this commitment is delivered in many forms, that benefit the younger generation and underprivileged, including partnering with the Selangor State Government to build Bandar Saujana Putra Rumah Selangorku.

To kickstart the fund, an additional RM1,000 was added to the foundation for each property sold in June, July and August 2015, which will be channelled towards four pillars: Education – to create a better nation by providing financial assistance and better learning environment to students and schools; Community – to build a strong and harmonious society by improving the general well-being of the underprivileged group and promoting heritage, sports, arts and culture; Environment – to protect and preserve the environment through education and partnering programmes; and Health – to improve the health and welfare of the needy.

MOVING FORWARDLim has no thoughts about retiring soon. He clearly enjoys his work and looks forward to more profitable years ahead. His sound reasoning and clear direction of the business has steered it to where it is today, and even helped open doors to mega development projects in China, which can be a challenging and risky endeavour if you do not know what you are doing.

Lim is no ordinary person, he is currently the President of The Federation of Malaysia Lim Associations, Director of Zhuhai International Circuit Ltd, Committee of China Federation 9th Plenary Session, Committee of China Chamber of International Commerce, Vice President of Fujian Overseas Exchanges Association Fifth Council, Committee of Fujian Provincial Federation, Committee of Zhuhai Municipal People’s Political Consultative Conference (Zhuhai CPPCC) China, President of Malaysia-Guangdong Chamber of Investment Promotion, President of The Malaysian Chamber of Commerce and Industry in China – Guangdong, President of Gabungan Persatuan Cina Petaling Jaya, Selangor, Vice President of the Ann Khoe Association Selangor & Wilayah Persekutuan, Director of Selangor/KL Lim Clansmen Association, Chairman of the Board of Governors of SMJK Katholik and Chairman of the Board of Governors of SJK (C) Sungai Way. With a successful track record and huge network, he continues to attract new opportunities. Even land owners from China have personally offered Lim to develop more properties there.

Now, as we approach 55 years since LBS Bina Group was established, it is our commitment

to build a better community together

and to give back to the community where we come from and where

our business is located. Back home, Lim has no problems juggling 17 projects at once, with a capable team of leaders and engineers at his command. “Nowadays, I just give them instructions via SMS. I may not know the fine details, but most importantly I let them know what I want, and it is easier to communicate this way.” Lim also offers a personal touch whenever it comes to problem solving, and makes frequent site visits to ensure that everything is on time and on track.

“I take pride in solving problems fast, and I’ll do whatever I can to ensure their needs are met. If there are problems, I will inform the engineers to rectify repair works within 30 days as stipulated in the agreement. I give the homebuyers the value that they pay for. If they pay RM400K for the property, I will give them back RM400K worth of building materials, and likewise for a RM1 million property. I appreciate happy customers and I will go out of my way to attend to their needs, within reason”.

For Lim, it is always a sunrise industry where properties are concerned. As the company marches into 2016, he believes that the next few years will be even better, as he executes his LBS Masterplan.

Nowadays, I just give them instructions via SMS. I may not know the fine details, but most importantly I let them know what I want, and it

is also easier to communicate this way.

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TAKE YOUR BRAND POSITION

PRIDE VS. POSITION

Pride vs PositionThe first step when it comes to stepping into your position is to dispel false thoughts. Such bogus judgements often come from within – what you deem others may be thinking about you or what you may believe your limitations are. These thoughts may range from your inner voice telling you that you’re not good enough to claiming your rightful position is in fact prideful (false or otherwise). So we may make the common mistake of thinking that our rise to position is somewhat impaired or limited by the world outside us. The reality of the matter is the actual challenge most often lies within. Face the inner demon! In similar reflection, when it relates to Country Branding, our homeland constraints tend to obscure our vision and hamper us; when in reality the whole world is our playing field! If we can move past such petty distractions and remove the false veil of blind pride and instead focus on the bigger picture; for instance the pressing matters at hand which require our urgent, undivided attention, then coming into position is no longer an option – it becomes a necessity, and in certain instances, compulsory. In short, your brand must take its rightful position. So be bold and rise up to claim it!

“The reality of the matter is our real challenge lies within.”

FIND YOUR BRAND’S PURPOSE

Position Equals PurposeThe next step is to view position as you would purpose. In truth, it is position that gives purpose to a

brand; and in that purpose a higher position is born. Unless and until you embrace that position, you will never know what your true purpose is; nor will you be able to fathom the full extent of said purpose. A brand is set to discover its purpose through position. For coming into position will open up new dimensions – new horizons. When a brand is placed in its rightful place, it does what it is ordained, purposed or even destined to do. It’s just like our bodily organs – each part has its own function and we will not even know it is doing its work unless something goes wrong, for instance an organ failure. But don’t wait for t to come to that. In the arena of Country Branding, placing your country, the ultimate brand, aptly in the global jigsaw is a wise thing to do. If the nation has a dream, a vision, or a mission – do everything in your power to make it a global dream, a global vision, a and global mission!

“In truth, it is position that gives purpose to a brand; and in that purpose a higher position is born.”

MULTIPLY YOUR BRAND

The Rightful Position Enables Replication on a Larger Scale

It is vital to ask yourself this when it comes to brand positioning: Why is it important for a brand to take its position? The answer is simple: To make a difference. When a brand chooses to be seen, perhaps as a role model or leader, what it is actually doing is putting itself out there for everyone to appreciate and emulate. The brand inadvertently evolves from a singular entity that was only concerned about its own survival at one time to one that is reborn a pacesetter, trendsetter and even market leader. In the

co u n t ry b r a n d i n g s e r i e s

What is a brand if it is not in its rightful place?

DR KKJOHAN

the champion of affordable...

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