the iskandarian june 2015 issue

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Red Crescent Association of Malaysia (PBSM) donated 10 new baby cots for the use of newborn babies at Hospital Sultanah Aminah (HSA) JB pg 6

Back To English?

Malaysia’s education system has been through multiple shifts in its paradigm concepts.

Chronologically, Malaysia went from Sekolah Pondok which is Hut Schools that teaches basic languages, ethics and religion to a secular education system introduced by the British during colonial times.

Off late, the whole country has gone into a frenzy of discussion in social media, blogs, forums, and even at coffee shops on the recent statement made by the Johor Ruler, DYMM Sultan Ibrahim Sultan Iskandar as he called upon a change in the education system.

The Sultan made the statement in his opening address of the Johor State Assembly that Singapore’s education system should be emulated here as it has helped unite the various races in the country.

Adam Low, a private English tutor told The Iskandarian, “Personally, as an English language tutor I agree with the recommendations of the Sultan. Learning English opens up ones’ view of the world, and broadens your professional horizons.

Moreover, English is still mainly used in science and technology.”

“However as a language practitioner, I beg to differ. My views as a language practitioner are in contrast to the above mainly because things are different nowadays. English is no longer the lingua franca of the world and that its status is being challenged not only by the other main languages of the world but also the versatility advancement of the Internet,” he added.

Deputy Education Minister II, P. Kamalanathan expressed the ministry’s welcome to the Sultan’s call for a single stream education system.

“The ministry has always given emphasis on strengthening the use of the English language in the education system,” said Kamalanathan in a local newspaper.

A recent study of countries ranked on maths and science shows Malaysia ranked 52, which is considered as quite far behind most Asian countries and miles away from

our neighbour, Singapore who is ranked number one.

However, a website called EF which ranks countries on their English skills, sets Malaysia as a country with a high-proficiency in the English language. But somehow, these studies and survey data do not tally with the state and level of English proficiency in the country.

Majority shows support for the shift back to English as the medium of instruction in the Malaysian education system but questions its feasibility

Issue

By Harish [email protected]

More on pg5

1000 trees were planted under the Hutan Kita initiative to green Iskandar Malaysia at Taman Tasik Bandar Seri Alam graced by Tun Jeanne Abdullah &Pak Lah


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Due to overwhelming response from developers and stakeholders in Medini, ten sponsors and

partners were announced at the event countdown of Medini Live.

Officiating the launch was IRDA’s Chief Executive Datuk Ismail Ibrahim who said, “I am very pleased with this collaboration between all the stakeholders in Medini to promote positive and innovative values through music, film and the arts.”

The two-day music, film, arts and community festival is an initiative mooted by the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of Medini Iskandar Malaysia, Ir. Khairil Anwar Ahmad.

“I’m from Johor and we would like to see more lifestyle activities evolving in Medini. We’re also hoping to make this an annual event,” said Khairil.

The two- day event kicks off on the 6th of June and will feature performances by Joe Flizzow, SonaOne, Najwa, Datin Sofia Jane, Lisa Foo and Havana Social Club to name a few.

For more information on the programmes, log on to www.medinilive.com or email info@

medinilive.com. Follow them on Twitter @MediniLive or facebook at /MediniLive

Medini Live FestivalMedini Iskandar Malaysia is organising a two-day music, film, arts and community festival at Mall of Medini

Interest

Joe Flizzow, SonaOne (pic), Najwa, Datin Sofia Jane, Lisa Foo and Havana Social Club will be among the performers at Medini Live Festival

By Edey [email protected]

Kids Can Cook Campaign!

Ayam Brand’s annual CSR Programme introduces the ‘Kids Can Cook’ campaign

Responsible

The nationwide Ayam Brand Charity Campaign is now in its eighth year, and has benefitted

more than 14,800 people from 312 charity organisations.

This year, 48 charity homes from across the nation will receive Ayam Brand tuna, mackerel, kernel corn, processed peas, peach slices and baked beans sufficient for daily meals for all residents for two months. More than 1,600 children, disabled, single mothers and old folks will benefit from this sustained aid.

In Johor, the recipients include Persatuan Kebajikan Berkat Johor Bahru, Pertubuhan Kebajikan Insan Istimewa Johor Bahru, Rumah Cheshire and Pusat Kebajikan Kalvari Johor Bahru.

Its newly introduced ‘Kids Can Cook’ campaign saw children from

participating charity homes learning how to cook simple, well-balanced, nutritious meals under the guidance of celebrity Chef Loke from T-Garden Cooking School.

Raymond Choong, Home Director from Persatuan Kebajikan Berkat Johor Bahru said that the contribution from Ayam Brand was valuable.

The Maritime Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) and Malaysian Johor Port Authority have signed an agreement to improve the ferry service between Singapore’s Changi Ferry Terminal and Tanjung Belungkor in south-eastern Johor.

Currently, ferry services run twice on weekdays and four times on weekends and

public holidays, the MPA said. The agreement will enable an increase in services but there were no immediate details given on the number.

Talks are already ongoing between the maritime authorities of the two countries for more elaborate ferry services beyond current routes, and the ferries will most likely depart from Singapore’s HarbourFront.

Petroliam Nasional Bhd (Petronas) will rephase some work being planned at the Refinery and Petrochemicals Integrated Development (Rapid) project in Pengerang, Johor, to lower the project’s cost.

The revised deadline to complete the massive project,

the third time it has been done since Rapid was launched in May 2012, has now been pushed to the middle of 2019.

It is now estimated that Rapid will cost RM89bil to be developed, compared with its original price tag of RM97bil.

More JB-Singapore ferries

RAPID Pengerang to lower cost

Quick Reads

Marie-Magali Falcoz, Ayam Brand Representative with the children from Rumah Berkat

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The IskandarIan

The good, the bad and the ugly of fellow Iskandarians.

Do’s & Don’ts

Stern action taken by AEON Bukit Indah against irresponsible parking -Sent by Ramli Bujang

03

Cosmopoint College relocates

Cosmopoint College rebranded and launched their new campus

Highlight

Cosmopoint College recently had a launch ceremony which is an integral part of the college’s rebranding efforts, marking the relocation of

the campus to Johor Bahru City Square Office Tower from Wisma Hock Yee Hin.

Additionally, the college will now be known as Cosmopoint College and no longer Cosmopoint International College of Technology.

The launch was attended by the Mayor of Johor Bahru, Yang Berhormat Dato’ Haji Abdul Rahman Bin Mohamed Dewam who sees the new campus being located in the heart of Johor Bahru city.

Cosmopoint College acts as an education hub that brings together all students from the districts of Johor including Muar, Segamat and Kluang. This is parallel to Cosmopoint’s core belief, which is to bring high

quality education back to the community.In conjunction with the launch, a

Memorandum of Understanding signing ceremony took place between Cosmopoint College Johor Bahru and Marrybrown, to solidify Marrybrown’s commitment in offering internship and job placement opportunities to students from Cosmopoint.

Mayor of Johor Bahru Dato’ Haji Abdul Rahman Bin Mohamed Dewam (second from left) officiated the launch



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Hotlines

Johor Police HQ07-221 2999 / 07-225 4499

JB South Police IPD07-2218 999

Nusajaya Police IPD07-511 4222

Ministry of Tourism (Johor)07-223 3171

Tourism Malaysia Hotline1300 88 5050

Tourism Malaysia Johor 07-222 3590 / 91

Johor Tourism07-223 4935 / 224 9960

Immigration 07-224 4233

Senai International Airport07-599 4500

Iskandar Regional

Development Authority (IRDA)07-233 3000

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JAC: Let the Adventure Begin!

In conjunction with the coronation of His Royal Highness The Sultan of Johor Sultan Ibrahim Ibni

Almarhum Sultan Iskandar, the District Office of Kluang collaborates with the Malaysia Cancer Foundation Johor Branch, Associate Members of the International Orienteering Federation (IOF) and the National Sports Enthusiasts Council Malaysia (NASEC) to organise the first ever Johor Adventure Challenge (JAC2015).

The inauguration of JAC2015 will commence from June 12-13 in the district of Kluang with a target of 50 participants. JAC2015 is open to all Malaysian citizens especially to the eco-sport enthusiasts. The challenge is also open to international par t ic ipants. So far, registrations for participation have been received from the United Kingdom, Singapore and Indonesia.

As a cancer survivor himself, YAM Tunku Abdul Jalil Iskandar Ibni Sultan Ibrahim is the Royal Patron of JAC2015. The purpose of JAC2015 is to

encourage healthy lifestyle and give support and hope to people who are going through tough challenges in life like fighting diseases and illness.

“The money raised from this event will be funneled to a fund that will be used to open up a cancer research institute in Johor,” said Datuk Rashidi Mohd Noor, Advisor to the Malaysia Cancer Foundation at the JAC2015 press conference.

“Participants will have a chance to experience a plethora of eco-sport challenges such as biking, tree climbing, rock scrambling, orienteering, trail running,

abseiling, climbing, swimming, running, flying fox, and kayaking,” said S. Rajasegram, Race Coordinator for JAC2015.

Every team consists of two participants of either 2 men or 1 man and 1 woman. Participation fees are RM300 and winners will stand a chance to bring home medals and cash prizes of up to RM5,000. There will also be consolation prizes up to 10th place.

For more information, please contact the race coordinator, S. Rajasegram (+6014-7064048) or visit the JAC2015 website at www.johoradventurechallenge.com.my

Johor Adventure Challenge to raise funds for Cancer Research Institute

Highlight

The league of sponsors for JAC 2015 alongside Datuk Rashidi Mohd Noor

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Southern Brigade cycling club recently organised a downhill riding challenge at Bandar Seri Alam, Masai. The

Downhill Challenge 2015 is a 5 series event that will be held throughout the year and this BSA Downhill Challenge is the 2nd series.

Faiz Fahrin, President of Southern Brigade organised this event with help from volunteers of the Southern Brigade cycling team who were also among his friends. The cycling event was open to all from local and international riders.

BSA Downhill Challenge saw participation of over 250 riders from Malaysia, Indonesia, Philippines, Iran, China and Japan.

The participants were from

different levels and expertise. They were placed into their respected categories which range among the Elite, Open, Junior, Women, Master A, Master B and Master C.

“We want to promote downhill riding as a popular sport among all, especially the youth. It is also a healthy lifestyle that we can make into a hobby. We can meet people from all over the world sharing the same interest with this

hobby,” said Faiz.The downhill track that was

prepared by Southern Brigade was about 1km long and had a couple of sharp turns and ramp jumps.

Beside the main downhill event, there were also local and international vendors promoting their bicycle merchandise.

Ex-Malaysian-Top-Rider, Shahril Haizat also participated at the event in the Elite category. “It’s

extreme. There are big possibilities for big injuries but never give up when you fall,” said Shahril encouragingly before the challenge.

The BSA Downhill challenge is a time-attack trail whereby riders

race to record the fastest time from the top to the bottom of the hill. Winners brought home medals and cash money, and the others also stood a chance to win something more from the lucky draw.

JARO recently hosted the visit of London’s Mayor, His Excellency Alan Yarrow,

his wife as well as acting High Commissioner of Britain.

The event signified the strong historic relationship between JARO and the Mayor.

His Excellency Alan Yarrow was born in Johor Bahru (JB) in 1951 and had lived at Bukit Serene. His mother was part of the founding team and volunteers at JARO.

The Mayor started

off his speech with “Saya adalah orang Malaysia,” and continued to express how emotional he felt to be back here in JB.

Also present to greet his Lord Mayor’s arrival were MP of Pulai YB Datuk Nur Jazlan and wife along with JARO Board of Directors.

JARO or Johor Area Rehabilitation Organisation is an established organisation which sells handicraft products produced by their disabled employees. The organisation was established in 1952 by Dr. Mrs Beryl Wilberforce Smith and was awarded the Iskandar Malaysia Social Hero Awards (IMSHA) 2014’s Tun Badawi award for their relentless efforts.

Perhaps, rather than changing the language of the education, why not change the education system framework itself, some might ask.

“The proposal is a way out for local graduates because thousands of graduates could not get a job in the private sector because of a poor command in English. As a result, they have no choice but to join the public sector upon graduating,” said Datuk Tengku Putra Haron

Aminurrashid Tengku Hamid Jumat (BN-Kempas).

In other reports, Centre for Public Policy Studies Chairman Tan Sri Ramon Navaratnam said having a single-stream education system in Malaysia sounds logical but it is not practical to be implemented.

“ This is because vernacular schools are protected under the Federal Constitution and must be allowed to continue to grow while students and parents must be given a choice as to

whether they wish to attend the vernacular school or the single-stream national school where the vernacular languages are taught,” commented Tan Sri Ramon.

Both changing of the education framework or the shift to an English stream education can be a boon for the society and generations to come. However, frequent changes will bring about another constant variable, which is inconsistency, and we wouldn’t want that.

Lulus Motor, the main sponsor of the event giving out the prizes

Local and international riders flocked to the hills of Bandar Seri Alam for the BSA Downhill Challenge

Highlight

His Excellency Lord Mayor of London, Alan Yarrow’s visit to Johor Area Rehabilitation Centre (JARO) brings back fond memories

Highlight

His Excellency Lord Mayor tries his hand at basket weaving

The Land Public Transport Commission (SPAD) will take stern action against express bus operators found selling tickets at higher prices to make profits, especially during the festive seasons or holidays.

Its enforcement chief, Datuk Che Hasni Che Ahmad, said there were express bus operators who conspired with ticket touts to sell tickets at higher prices outside the ticket counters.

He said they could be charged under Section 205(1) of the Land Public Transport Act 2010 (Act 715) which provides for a maximum fine of RM50,000

or imprisonment not exceeding five years or both, if convicted.

“We hope passengers who experience this situation will report to SPAD,” he told reporters.

He said there were also ticket sellers who did not issue tickets to the passengers to cover the price increase.

He added that an express bus en route from Larkin, Johor, to Kuala Lumpur was suspected to be involved in ticket touts because the passengers were issued different prices of tickets and some of them did not have tickets.

SPAD against errant express bus operators

Quick Reads

It’s All Downhill from Here

London Mayor Visits Jaro

Changing the Education System, Again?

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pic by M.Fauzi Salim

FromCover



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JB-Bangkok flights Timeless Classical Music despite lack of fundsAirAsia will begin direct flights

from Johor Bahru to Bangkok four times a week from July

Highlight

The World Red Cross/Crescent Day 2015 was conveniently celebrated on the same weekend

as Mother’s Day this year, and what better way to do so than to celebrate both occasions with the mothers and children at the Sultanah Aminah General Hospital.

In conjunction with both events, the Red Crescent Association of Malaysia (PBSM) donated 10 new baby cots for the use of newborn babies at the hospital.

Hampers were also given out by HRH Tuanku Raja Zarith Sofia, Tunku Temenggong Idris,

Tunku Tun Aminah and Che Puan Khaleeda to 80 mothers who just gave birth and 40 children from the children’s ward.

Royal patrons were on location to grace the event and presentation of the goods to the recipients as well as to have short but sweet conversations with their subjects.

Datuk Rashidi Mohd. Noor, Vice Chairman of the PBSM National Community Service Committee was also present at the Hospital on the occasion.

“We want the society to feel the love that we try to propagate and we hope that these efforts will continue in times to come,” said Datuk Rashidi.

“We have planned and will be organising more charity events in the near future, and the nearest would be for the fasting month

where we will be cooking up pots of bubur lambuk (mixed porridge) for selected villages around Johor,” added Datuk Rashidi.

Ai r A s i a h a s announced a new route connecting its southern hub

of Johor Bahru with the Thai capital Bangkok. This new route was made available for booking from 18th of May 2015.

S c h e d u l e d t o commence on July 17 with four weekly flights, this is AirAsia’s eighth route into Thailand after Kuala Lumpur-Phuket, Bangkok,

Chiangmai, Hat Yai, Krabi, Surat Thani and the most recent, Pattaya.

T o c e l e b r a t e the launch of the new

route, AirAsia offered promotional all-in-fares from RM69 one way, available for booking to travel from July 17 until May 31 next year.

The promotional fares are available at www.airasia.com as well as AirAsia’s mobile app on iPhone and Android devices and their mobile site mobile.airasia.com.

Tuanku Raja Zarith Sofia presented hampers to mothers who just delivered at the maternity ward

A magical performance from the Foon Yew String Orchestra

Red Crescent Association of Malaysia (PBSM) pays tribute to mothers and their children

Responsible

10 New Baby Cots Donated to HSABy Harish [email protected]


Fo l l o w i n g t h e successful JB Jazz Festival in February which showcased

a star-studded line-up of performances, headlined by jazz titan Sadao Watanabe, the Johor Society for the Performing Arts (JSPA) and the Euroasia Association of Performing Arts jointly organised and presented the inaugural Johor Bahru Classical Music Festival.

The festival was graced by the attendance of Her Royal Princess, YAM Tunku Aminah Maimunah Ibni Sultan Ibrahim who is also the Royal Patron of JSPA and YM Che’ Puan Khaleeda binti Bustamam, consort of Tunku Makhota Johor.

“Overall, we had a fantastic lineup, featuring a good blend of established and respected musicians as well as up-and-coming talents. It’s time for Johor Bahru to rediscover the timeless genre of classical music,” said Yap Siong Cheng, founder of the Johor Society

for Performing Arts, the organisers of the JB Classical Music Festival.

T h e t h r e e - d a y educational and interactive musical experience was held at the Berjaya Waterfront Hotel in Johor Bahru. The highlight of the event was the National Symphony Orchestra from Istana Budaya under the baton of conductor Mustafa Fuzer Nawi featuring powerful soprano songstress Cecilia Yap.

The festival also saw the appearances of some of Malaysia’s most respected musicians and educators such as renowned classical pianist Loo Bang Hean; Journal of the American Viola Society’s editor, violinist Dr. Andrew Filmer; president of the Euroasia Association of Performing Arts, Angel Lee, who is also on the Panel of Music Examiners for Trinity College London; and former sub-principal cellist of the National Symphony Orchestra, Johnathan Oh.

Enthusiastic students from the Foon Yew High School String Orchestra (FYSO) rounded up the performance with a mixture of eastern and western classics that won the

hearts of the local community in support of Johor Bahru’s very own young talents.

Two workshops were conducted during the festival by Ryan Lewis, Malaysia National Consultant of the Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music (ABRSM), providing a platform students and teachers to gain a deeper understanding and appreciation of chambers music, while aiming to increase the standards of classical music in Johor Bahru.

“The year long JB International Festival City perfectly complements the government’s initiative in promoting Malaysia Year of Festivals (MYFest 2015),” said Yap Siong Cheng.

The JB Classical Music Fest is the second in the series of festivals after the JB Jazz Fest under the Johor Bahru: International Festival City (JB:IFC) organised by JSPA. JB:IFC festivals scheduled later this year are the JB Film Festival (June 11 to 13), the 12th JB Arts and Fringe Festival (September to October 9) and the JB Food & Visual Arts Festival (from October to December).

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GST: No Brainer

Singapore Terminus announced for High-Speed Rail

Sultan Ibrahim voices out his opinion on the implementation of GST

HighlightA 10-tonned artificial coral reef in form of the Johor coat of arms with a replica of the Sultan’s crest is the latest attraction in Taman Dasar Laut Sultan Iskandar, Mersing

Attraction

By Jazmyn [email protected]

Malaysia and Singapore Prime Ministers Datuk Sri Mohd Najib Razak and Lee Hsien Loong recently announced during a joint press conference that the terminal in Singapore for the high speed rail link to Kuala Lumpur will be in Jurong East.

Prime Minister Lee explained that Jurong East was chosen over the city centre or Tuas, because the dense nature of the city centre would make the required construction works difficult, while there are too few businesses located in Tuas.

The leaders re-affirmed both countries’ full commitment to the success of the project, which will cut travel time between Singapore and KL to 90 minutes.

PM Najib said that the high-speed rail link is “the most important project” between the two countries, which marks the 50th anniversary of bilateral ties this year.

A new deadline for the completion of the link should be announced at the end of this year, after the full, official agreement between both sides on the link is done, said both the PMs.

They noted that an agreement has already been reached on several details of the link, such as the frequency bands to be reserved for operations, dual co-location of Customs, Immigration and Quarantine configuration and that the depot and stabling facilities for the rail link will be located in Malaysia.

But PM Lee noted that major decisions have yet to be made, such as on “where the funding is going to come from, how is equity going to be divided between the two parties, and structuring issues like does Singapore build its part and Malaysia build its part and we meet in the middle?” TI

The Johor government and local councils received directives from the Sultan of Johor, DYMM Sultan

Ibrahim Ibni Almarhum Sultan Iskandar to request for an exemption for GST on public services.

At first, it was thought that the sultan had made a bold statement in opposition with the governments’ administration, but the decision of the state government to absorb GST is surprising and a good call.

Datuk Abdul Latiff Bandi, Johor Housing and Local Government exco said that the state government had absorbed the GST charges sometime after the implementation of the taxation in April.

“The state government will absorb the GST and reimburse the Customs Department instead of passing it to the rakyat,” he told to a local newspaper.

The Sultan said that it was a no brainer and not logical to impose GST on public services because it is the responsibility of the state government to provide free services to the taxpayers.

According to the Rakyat Post, the move by the Johor state government to absorb the Goods and Services Tax (GST), imposed on

services provided by local authorities, has been labelled as “regrettable” by Johor DAP Chairman and Kluang MP Liew Chin Tong.

This means an estimate of RM 3million worth of GST will be absorbed by the state government.

Liew added to his statement that Johor should join other states in opposing the implementation of GST. However, contrary to his suggestion, it is confirmed that even Penang have decided to absorb GST on public services.

The Customs Department will be paying a visit to the Johor council to enlighten the state government about the implications of their dramatic move. The Customs Department insisted that GST brings goods to the rakyat instead of the setback that everyone is distressing about.

“I still don’t understand this GST thing. It’s not that I don’t understand the imposing of taxes and its procedures, but I just don’t get why the responsible parties did not take all aspects into account before such implementation was set underway. Now, everybody is at loggerheads in the matter of GST. To implement or not to implement, that is the question,” ranted a fellow

citizen who only wanted to be known as John.

The Iskandarian met John while having his breakfast and a conversation was struck when some people started complaining about GST.

“I’m happy that the Sultan actually spilled the beans. I mean, someone had to step in and say something. It’s quite logical what he said. There is no need for GST in any way in the public service,” said John.

Moreover, “The government wants the telco to fully implement this method and approach within six months. Within that period, the charging of GST on top-ups will remain until the formula of ‘buy RM10, get RM10 is implemented,” he added.

This means the current charge of RM10.60 for a RM10 reload still applies for the next six months.

Meanwhile, according to the Rakyat Post, Communications and Multimedia Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Shabery Cheek said the GST on prepaid top-ups would be usage-based. He said that this move would be reasonable because users will only be charged GST upon using the service which implies that telcos will still be charging GST.

Artificial Coral Reef in the form of coat of arms

Jo h o r N a t i o n a l Pa r k s Corporation director Md Shakib Ali said the reef designed by Politeknik

Ibrahim Sultan’s Design and Visual Communication Department officers and students, was presented to the Sultan of Johor Sultan Ibrahim Sultan Iskandar, who approved the design.

“The artificial reef which is 3.5 meters in height, 4.5meters in length and 2.5 meters in its base width will be lowered and installed in the seabed, some 20 meters deep.

“In conjunction with the

Kembara Kemahkotaan Johor (Johor royal tour: island series), the state’s coat of arms reef was installed at Taman Dasar Laut Sultan Iskandar, which was gazetted as an underwater park on August 15, 2013 under the Fisheries Act 1985,” he said.

In the past, Sultan Ibrahim in his annual Kembara Mahkota Johor which was first introduced in 2001, used various methods including motorcycles, speed boats and coaches among others to reach out to his subjects in all 10 districts in the state.

After the Sultan’s coronation on March 23 this year, the royal tour has now been renamed Kembara Kemahkotaan Johor. This year’s edition saw the recently crowned Sultan Ibrahim visiting his subjects who have made the islands in Johor their homes.

On April 28 and 29, Sultan Ibrahim took a dive and placed the replica crest (which is also an artificial reef) on the state’s coat of arms reef in Pulau Mentinggi. Sultan Ibrahim also dived with the villagers at Taman Dasar Laut which consist of six islands including Pulau Sibu, Pulau Tinggi, Pulau Besar, Pulau Rawa, Pulau Pemanggil and Pulau Mentinggi.

Mohd Shakib said the Sultan Iskandar seabed park will see more reefs installed in six phases within the next five years, aimed at creating an eco-tourism underwater park. “Besides creating an eco-tourism underwater park to attract more divers and enhanced tourism, Taman Dasar Laut will also be used to research coral growth and create an underwater ecosystem.

“The artificial reef will also promote marine life, control erosion, block ship passage which normally damage or destroy marine-life, create awareness and educational site of marine diversity,” Md Shakib added.

The artificial coral reef built by Politeknik Ibrahim Sultan earned them a spot in the Malaysian Books of Record for the biggest artificial coral reef.

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Frost & Sullivan Iskandar Malaysia Is Hiring

Siti Sariah Sariman collects Coca Cola memorabilia like nobody’s business. She started

her collection 15 years ago and has been picking up the rarest and most weirdest design. Her hobby started off with just one Coke item and now it has turned into her passion.

Known by many as a loving mother and caretaker at Sari Saujana Handicapped Children Home in Stulang Darat, Siti has a Charity Shop at Danga City Mall, Johor Bahru. This is where she keeps her stash of Coke memorabilia and other items given by philanthropists.

She has been running the Charity Shop on her own since 2008 and had shifted a number of times. No matter where she goes, word of mouth would spread and Coca Cola memorabilia collectors would still be able to find her.

Besides selling other items like clothes and toys, Siti also puts up part of her Coke collection for sale. This is all done for charity. All

the profit from the shop goes to the home.

Items at the shop are generally in good condition. Clothes and apparel are mostly “pre-loved” items. The toys and gadgets may be in less than new condition but can still function well. Certain items like old radios and paddle-cars may need a bit of restoration.

Siti also joins the local flea

market and Pasar Tani once a week to add to the funds for the children’s home.

The charity shop is always open but before dropping by, Siti

requests that you give her a call first at +6016-7117727. Siti welcomes all to her Charity Shop to marvel at her collection of Coke memorabilia and shop for charity at the same time.

Membeli Sambil Menderma is the tagline for the Charity Shop which means ‘Donate While Shopping’

Frost & Sullivan is a global leader in growth consulting with a proud history of providing cutting-edge innovative growth solutions and strategies to many of the world’s leading Global 1000 companies. Frost & Sullivan has expertise in the areas of technology research, market research, mega trends, economic research, best practices, training, customer research, competitive intelligence, and corporate strategy.

Frost & Sullivan Malaysia was established in 2000 where it expanded rapidly and was awarded the MSC-status in 2007. In 2012, with the support of Multimedia Development Corporation and i2M Ventures Sdn Bhd, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Khazanah Nasional Berhad, they set up a Global Innovation Centre (GIC) of Excellence in Medini Iskandar.

The Global Innovation Centre serves their global operations and offices, providing opportunities for local employees to work on global projects, while developing and delivering capabilities that assist in driving Growth, Innovation and Leadership for our local and global clients.

Malaysia is currently Frost & Sullivan’s second biggest office in Asia Pacific with 120 employees in Kuala Lumpur and 100 staff in Iskandar Malaysia (IM).

“We are constantly on the lookout for local talents to join us and our GIC allows us to cultivate these talents. Iskandar is a strategic location in the region due to its proximity to

Singapore and other high growth economies such as Indonesia, Vietnam and Philippines, which allows us to drive growth in a more accelerated manner,” said Manoj Menon, Senior Partner and Asia Pacific Managing Director, Frost & Sullivan.

Frost & Sullivan’s team of analysts in IM will also be supporting clients in Japan and Korea, who are increasingly looking to invest in ASEAN. Malaysia has the potential to become the biggest office for Frost & Sullivan globally, with the company’s aggressive hiring plan in IM; Frost & Sullivan hopes to have roughly 800 employees to be based in its IM office in the next 6-7 years. The IM office will be the engine of growth for Frost & Sullivan’s Asia Pacific growth.

Some of the immediate vacancies available are:

• Part Time Data Entry/QC - Customer Research

• Consultant - Energy & Environment - Environmental Technologies (Water treatment, Waste Management)

• Senior Industry Analyst - Mobile & Wireless (Information & Communication Technologies)

• Principal Consultant, Chemicals, Materials & Food

Find our more on latest vacancies at http://careers.frost.com/career-opportunities/asia-pacific or email your CV to [email protected]


Coca Cola (Coke) memorabilia collector, Siti Sariah Sariman invites you to her Charity Shop in Danga City Mall, Johor Bahru

Interest

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Coke Chronology

“Always Be Clean” Campaign

Ant a b a x re ce nt l y joined forces with the Ministry of Health

to reduce the spread of communicable diseases by introducing the Always Be Clean (ABC) Health education and awareness campaign for the Johor region.

The launch was held at SJK (C) Chien Chi. During the launch, correct hand washing and sanitising techniques were taught as a step to reduce the spread of communicable diseases not just Hand Foot Mouth Disease (HFMD) but many

others among the students. T h e c a m p a i g n

will benefit 10 schools in Johor, reaching more than 10,000 students with the distribution of education material developed in collaboration between

Antabax and the Ministry of Health.

More than 2,500 Antabax Care Kits were also distributed as a starter kit to equip children and their parents with basic hygiene products.

Born in Johor Bahru (JB), Ivan is the General Manager of Ponderosa and most recently took on an additional portfolio in the property industry with Rawhide Sdn Bhd, the developer of Ponderosa Woods in Taman Molek, a company which is co-owned by the Kuok Group, Lee Rubber Group and Tai Tak Group.

Prior to this, he has over 18 years of experience in the hospitality and golf industry starting with Orchid Country Club, Singapore where he was first exposed to the glamorous world of golf. Gaining experience in hospitality, operations and membership in a golf resort, Ivan returned to serve Malaysia in 2003 and was a Resort Manager at Legends Golf and Country Resort, Sedenak, Johor. Being a Johorian, Ivan decided to continue his career in Johor and went on to manage IOI Palm Villa, Kulai, Johor for 5 years. Ivan’s business acumen, charismatic nature and ability to lead had gained him a good reputation in the industry and was signed on as the General Manager of Ponderosa before the age of 40.

Ivan also obtained his Master of Business Administration (MBA) degree from the United Kingdom before he was 30 years old and prior to that was also a hospitality graduate from Switzerland. With interest in education and training, he had also being actively involved in management and leadership training in Singapore and JB until today. Ivan also has an artistic side whereby he has played different musical instruments in different genres since young such as the erhu, piano, guitar and even digital musical instruments.

Share with us some of the big names that have stayed or golfed at PonderosaHis Excellency, Ong Teng Cheong, the 5th President of Singapore who was in

office from 1993-1999, Lam Chih Beng, Singaporean Professional Golfer who participated in 5 consecutive World Cups from 2002 – 2011, Mardan Mamat; Singaporean Professional Golfer who was the first player to win a European Tour Event, Former IGP Tan Sri Rahim Noor, Former Chief Minister of Johor, Tan Sri Dato’ Haji Abdul Ghani Othman, Current Chief Minister of Johor, Dato’ Mohamed Khaled Nordin to name a few.

Tell us more about the Lunch Shuttle service provided by PonderosaPonderosa is located in a tight community of high-end residents, surrounded by a thriving commercial environment with shopping, banking and all conveniences you can possibly think of.

We are within a self-sufficient township and our target marketing is pragmatic i.e. to “think local.” Further, we have recently coined a new tagline “Close To You”, and we intend our actions to be more than just words.

We realise that a portion of our community have kept away thinking that we are a membership club and therefore, beyond their access. To a certain extent we owe it to our members to protect their privileges such as in golf and in certain facilities, but we are otherwise open to the public to regard as a recreational, dining and social centre at the doorstep.

For a start, we need to get them into our resort and we created the shuttle service to pick them up from several strategically located banks in Taman Molek for lunch daily, and drop them off after. The time is between 11.45 am and 1.45 pm.

Ponderosa is quite known for its good food; tell us more about the chefs’ and the specialties availableOur team at Hop Sing consists of pioneers. We are proud that since Ponderosa’s opening, many people in the area have patronised us and are fully aware of what we are capable of.

Undeniably, the Chinese restaurant business around the area is quite competitive and what we have been doing to make ourselves different is by making usually expensive delicacies affordable for everyone. For example, our ‘Buddha Jumps Over the Wall’ comes in individual portions and is only priced at RM28.00+ GST per person. The promotion also applies to dishes such as ‘Abalone Fried Rice’, ‘Peking Duck’, ‘Slipper Lobsters’ and ‘Bird’s Nest’.

Another outlet we pay special attention to is our Sports Café and Pub called Cantina. Recently we have introduced a special Western set lunch priced only at RM23.30 nett per person, all inclusive of soup, appetiser, main course and dessert, as well as a revamp of the entire menu to include delicious, popular Western dishes and snacks, and a fine selection of wines, cocktails and mocktails to go with them. We have recently introduced the Cantina Ladies’ Card – as at night we bring the place to life with a 4-piece band and aim to turn the outlet into a ladies’ social hangout where they can safely get together with friends and family to wine, dine and sashay to music, with optimised security. We hear that you like to promote training and ‘service-intelligence’ among your staff. Tell us more about thisWe have recently started a training programme called the Ponderosa Learning Curve which was created and conducted by our consultant/trainer partner company, IAAYS PLT. Our employees underwent a six months training and I could see an obvious improvement.

I strongly believe that training was, is and always will be a vital factor in ensuring the long-term success and profitability of the hospitality business. Service intelligence is not only about physical skills but also soft skills such as maintaining a good EQ during challenging moments with difficult guests, at the same time making decisions that break away from the norm in creative problem-olving to

leave our guests happy. More so now that Johor is

very much in lack of good hotel service staff, as many of them with the right experience has moved to our neighbouring Singapore to capitalise on the highly-favourable exchange rate and generally higher salary scale. Through spearheading the above Learning Curve Training Programme and together with IAAYS PLT, we hope to make Ponderosa as the springboard for other hotels in Johor.

What are your aspirations for the club?I hope to position Ponderosa close to the hearts of our immediate public – as a getaway of sorts close by. They can come here for recreation, stay-cation, private social get-togethers, family or corporate events, a beautiful place to get married and generally as a neighbourhood club where they feel comfortable, safe and can easily access. We are open to any possibilities to cater to the wants and needs of our potential customers and we want to be more than just a golf destination.

Recently, we have started refurbishing our 16 rooms and suites at The Lodge phase by phase. Then at the end of the year, we will be launching a brand-new 40-bay driving range with more Golf Professionals to teach and train golf to both the young and old.

We also want to support our sister hotel properties in JB that do not have golf courses but want to fulfil their guests’ requests who want to play golf and provide the means to transport them to and from Ponderosa, together with provision of golf equipment. As we are also managing the Impian Emas Golf & Country Club in Taman Impian Emas in Skudai, there is much more that we can offer to golfers who wish to experience more than one golf course. Every golf course is different and every challenge is unique.

If I am able to fulfil this within the next year or two, then I would have realised my self-achievement goals for Ponderosa and justify the trust placed on me by our owners.

Ponderosa / Rawhide Sdn Bhd

The Iskandarian aspires to be the voice of the rakyat and with that in mind, our Editor touches base with CEOs and Chairmen of organisations to Drill them with questions to hear their opinions and perspectives.

DRILLFREE COPYThe Iskandarian ISSUE 34 | JUNE 2015


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streets

If you have visited small towns, be it local or abroad, you will notice that each settlement has a place of worship as their social centre, and particularly in European

towns, there will inevitably be a Church Road. Johor Bahru is no different because we too have a Jalan Gereja. The original simple, modest structure for the towering Church of Immaculate Conception (CIC) here dates back to 1883. To better appreciate the religious and cultural unity that exists in our community, take a walking tour from Jalan Gereja down Jalan Trus to Jalan Dhoby and Jalan Duke to discover fresh insights on our Streets of Harmony.

CIC is the oldest church in JB with the original church built on the same site donated by Sultan Abu Bakar known as the Church of Our Lady of Lourdes. When the present building, designed in British Colonial architecture was completed in 1921, the old building was used as a funeral parlour. The marble statue of Our Lady, a gift from Sultan Ibrahim (1895 to 1959), still occupies a place of pride in front.

In the early 1960’s, a one-storey parish hall was built to cater to more activities in the church. With the increasing number of parishioners, children’s catechism classes were held in borrowed premises in neighbouring St Joseph’s School. Recently an extension designed with modern facilities in the Notre Dame Hall, was built with a multi-purpose hall, funeral parlour, classrooms, seminar and meeting rooms and guestrooms as well as priests’ living quarters.

The Presbyterian Holy Light Church at nearby Jalan Gertak Merah, was founded by Presbyterian missionary, Reverend John Angus Bethune Cook in 1886. Started by British missionaries fluent in Teochew

dialect to minister to the Chinese-speaking community here, it is the oldest Chinese-speaking church in Malaysia. Cook was helped by Scotsman, James Meldrum who was the son-in-law of Reverend Benjamin Keasberry, a tutor to Sultan Abu Bakar.

In 1860, Meldrum established the Johor Steam Sawmill at the mouth of Sungai Segget to process timber harvested from the jungle in Johor that was being opened by farmers for pepper and gambier cultivation in the kangchu system. The steam sawmill was JB’s first industry and its timber was exported to China, Mauritius, Java and India where it supplied sleepers for the Indian railways. When Sultan Abu Bakar presented the church with land at Jalan Gertak Merah, Meldrum supplied timber to build the original church which is now used as the Youth Hall.

The Church had a small English service for the Meldrum family and other expatriates in JB but it ceased with the demise of Meldrum and Cook’s retirement in 1924. The English service was revived in 1952 and in 2009, the English-speaking congregation relocated to new premises at Hillville near Ponderosa Golf Club where a new sanctuary was completed in 2012.

A walk down Jalan Gereja and a right turn will lead to Jalan Trus and the Johor Gu Miao or Ancient Temple. Built in the late 19th century by a group of Chinese community leaders led by the leader of the Ngee Heng kongsi, Tan Hiok Nee (1827 – 1902), it is dubbed “the temple of unity” because deities revered by the five main clans or Chinese dialect groups, are housed under one roof. Chinese temples traditionally bear the name of a particular deity but this may be the first Chinese temple in Malaysia to be named after a State in honour of the sultan.

The temple was declared open by Sultan Abu Bakar in 1870 and the early Chinese community lived together in peace with their worship of the five deities, Zhao Da Yuan Shuai (Hainanese), Hua Guang Da Di (Cantonese), Gan Tian Da Di (Hakka), Hong Xian Da Di (Hokkien) and Yuan Tian Shang Di (Teochew), united in one temple. The Johor Bahru Chingay, the annual night parade which is a uniquely JB tradition now recognised as a national heritage, is part of the temple’s 3-day religious celebration for the lunar new year.

The development of rubber plantations in the outskirts of JB in the early 20th century saw the arrival of Indians who were employed as labourers or mandor / supervisors. When a mandor in Sultan Ibrahim’s Pasir Pelangi Estate appealed to him for land to build a temple for the religious needs of labourers, a site was granted at Jalan Ungku Puan. The sultan also generously donated $500 (a huge sum in those days) towards its construction and when the Arulmigu Raja Mariamman Devasthanam Temple was completed in 1911, the word “Raja” was incorporated in the temple’s name to honour the sultan.

Like their compatriots elsewhere, Sikhs found ready employment in the police force and as watchmen or security guards

Explore JB’s Streets of Harmony

PEGGy LOH

My johoR SToRiES

while others were labourers and cattle herdsmen. It’s interesting that the founding of the Gurdwara Sahib Sikh Temple around 1921 was attributed to the boldness and quick-thinking of Sikh policemen. When Sultan Ibrahim’s rubber store caught fire and the estate workers could not put it out, the police was called and Sikhs ran carts of water to the scene and cut branches to beat out flames. In gratitude, the sultan granted them land on Jalan Trus to build their temple where the first school for Sikh children was also housed.

When you walk through Little India and turn right into the domain of the Indian-Muslim community, you will find Masjid India at the corner of Jalan Dhoby and Jalan Duke. The original structure has been replaced by a new building but its distinct identity is evident from regular sermons in Tamil and the Tamil inscriptions on its façade.

Our Streets of Harmony clearly reflects the peaceful coexistence and unity of diverse groups of people from different cultural and religious origins. Early immigrants, who are our forefathers, contributed to the economy and development of JB since the 1800s and as Iskandar Malaysia transforms into a modern metropolis, let’s treasure the precious peace in our multi-cultural community and work hard to strengthen the foundations rooted in shared struggles and the search for better livelihoods.

Peggy is a regular contributor to NST and The Malaysian Insider. She actively writes in her blog www.peggyloh.com about matters that are close to her heart. She can be reached at [email protected]

Church of Immaculate Conception at Jalan Gereja

View of the refurbished Masjid India at Jalan Duke, off Jalan Dhoby

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The Johor Gu Miao or Ancient Temple at Jalan Trus is dubbed “the temple of unity” because deities revered by the five main clans or Chinese dialect groups, are housed under one roof

Arulmigu Raja Mariamman Devasthanam (Hindu) Temple at Jalan Ungku Puan



Th e J o h a n C r y u f f Foundation aims to give every child with disability a n o p p o r t u n i t y to

experience the pleasure of sports in the company of others. Iskandar Investment Berhad (IIB) emulates this every year by organising a mini-carnival for kids with special needs.

100 special kids from Johor Bahru and Kuala Lumpur displayed

their skills at the Cryuff Court Iskandar in Kampung Melayu Majidee. The kids were divided into four categories based on the types of disability and each had their own special rules of the game.

The games were Pan-Disability Football Club CCKL against Team CCI Johor in the Cerebral Palsy category, Pan-Disability Football Club CCKL versus Maktab Sultan Abu Bakar CCI Johor

in the Visually Impaired category and for the intellectually disabled kids’ category, Pan-Disability Football Club CCKL against Sekolah Kanak-Kanak Istimewa Johor Bahru (SKIJB) CCI Johor.

Sunny Shalesh’s Blind Football team demonstrated a blind football game before they played against Team IIB; who were not visually impaired or blind but had to put on blindfolds to make it a fair game and to experience the uniqueness of blind football.

Team IIB was made up of IIB’s very own employees and found

that it was not that easy to kick and chase, let alone to dribble the ball.

“I hope football will be a choice sport for special children. We are constantly looking for new talents and they will be trained to represent the National Paralympic squad. We hope more talents will surface in Johor with the help of forward-thinking companies such as IIB. Pan-Disability Football Club is happy to work with Johor communities, providing professional coaching and volunteers to support the mission,” said Head Coach of Pan-Disability

Football Club and Malaysia Blind Football Team, Sunny Shalesh.

President and Chief Executive Officer of IIB, Datuk Syed Mohamed Syed Ibrahim said, “One will marvel at the effort, speed and competitiveness displayed by these kids. They overcome their disabilities with such grace and enthusiasm displaying outstanding capabilities in a sport that has even the fittest of person panting for air sometimes. To spur growth in special kids’ football scene, IIB welcomes the usage of Cryuff Court Iskandar as a training ground.

Special Kicks for Special KidsSpecial kids from Johor Bahru and Kuala Lumpur displayed their football skills at Cryuff Court Iskandar’s (CCI) Special Football Carnival 2015

Highlight

Pan-Disability Football Club CCKL versus Maktab Sultan Abu Bakar CCI

IIB’s very own employees playing against the National Blind Football Team

The special kids with their par-ents, coaches and support-ers at the IIB Special Football Carnival 2015

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The Iskandarian ISSUE 34 | JUNE 2015 Advertisement12



It’s the third year and the biggest IMELC children’s environmental education programme in the country will now see 226 primary

schools in Iskandar Malaysia compete with each other.

Competition aside, the programme will spread the importance of conserving the environment and the awareness of a low carbon society amongst children.

The programme inculcates eco-household accounting that requires primary six students to record, evaluate and reflect on their household’s consumption of electricity and water usage in a workbook module. The workbook submissions will then contribute points towards the school-level electricity, water savings and waste recycling competition.

Through IMELC, students will be able to monitor their own behavioural patterns as well as their families’ and move towards a low carbon lifestyle.

Income generated from the recycling and money saved on electricity and water usage can help Iskandar Malaysia’s primary schools strengthen their financial status to at

least RM3.5 million. “Education and awareness are

important to assist Iskandar Malaysia to achieve its planned 40% reduction in Greenhouse Gas emissions as it reaches maturity in 2025,” said IRDA’s Chief Executive Datuk Ismail Ibrahim.

IMELC is organised by IMkiko PLT, a social enterprise based in Johor Bahru and its partners IRDA,

UTM, Jabatan Pendidikan Negeri Johor, Science and Technology Research Partnership for Sustainable Development (SATREPS) and joined

by Rural Transformation Centre Johor (RTC) and Malaysian Industry – Government Group for High Technology (MIGHT) this year.

The launching of Iskandar Malaysia Eco-Life Challenge 2015

Iskandar Malaysia Eco-Life Challenge (IMELC) 2015 will see the participation of 226 primary schools

Benchmark

Biggest Environmental Competition

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Happenings Sharing with you the happenings from last month

iProperty Expo @ KomtarJBCC Teacher’s Day at MSABEC Effort

Swiss Dream CircusAngsana Exporters Forum 2015MATRADE

recap132 More Ambulances

Th e J o h o r s t a t e g o v e r n m e n t h a s r e q u e s t e d 1 3 2

ambulance s under the 11th Malaysia Plan (11MP) allocation to meet the service requirements of all government hospitals throughout the state.

H e a l t h a n d Environmental Committee chairman Datuk Ayub Rahmat said so far, Johor had 132 ambulances with 68 of them in hospitals, and another 64 at health clinics.

By region, the distribution of ambulances are 28 ambulances for Johor Bahru, Kulaijaya (6), Pontian

(9), Ledang (9), Kota Tinggi (12), Mersing (10), Muar (12), Segamat (15), Kluang (11) and Batu Pahat (20).

“We have requested for another 132 new ambulances under 11MP and the decision on the request will be known in the third week of this month,” said Datuk Ayub.

In the 10th Malaysia Plan, the federal government had provided a total of 31 new ambulances involving an allocation of RM8.525 million to the State Health Department (JKNJ).The JKNJ had also allocated RM132,000 a year to maintain all ambulances in the state, he added.

Rotary Pasir Gudang joined hands with Iskandar Expats to raise over RM 10,000 for victims in Nepal. Incoming President, Clifford Lobo thanked Iskandar Expats (an organisation for both men and women expats in Iskandar Malaysia) who managed to attract close to a hundred attendees to purchase the ticketed luncheon event. The funds raised will be transferred to the Rotary International Nepal Disaster Aid Fund

MUSICJames Taylor &Robert Glasper

CoverInsidiousChapter 3

www.facebook.com/waveslifestyletwitter.com/waveslifestyle

4 PoweRfUl ThInGS To Do In a RelaTIonShIP (PTII) BY RoSe oSMan

JUNE 15’

JUNE 2015 | Page 2 The Iskandarian | WAVES Lifestyle

Ten years after making his Blue Note debut, and following two GRAMMY-winning volumes of his critically and commercially

successful R&B-oriented Black Radio albums; Robert Glasper has announced a return to his acclaimed acoustic jazz trio for his new album - “Covered” (The Robert Glasper Trio recorded live at Capitol Studios), which will be released on June 16 via Blue Note Records. The trio, featuring Vicente Archer on bass and Damion Reid on drums, begins a week-long run tonight at the famed Village Vanguard in New York City to preview the album.

Glasper, Archer and Reid who form the original trio featured on Glasper’s first two Blue Note albums: Canvas (2005) and

In My Element (2007) reconvened at the legendary Capitol Studios in Hollywood, California in December to record “Covered” in front of an intimate live audience. The material mainly consisted of covers, drawing from some of Glasper’s favourite songs by Radiohead, Joni Mitchell, Jhené Aiko, John Legend, Kendrick Lamar, and more, as well as several Glasper originals.

Earlier, Glasper won his 2nd GRAMMY Award when Robert Glasper Experiment’s Stevie Wonder cover “Jesus Children Of America” from Black Radio 2 won the award for Best Traditional R&B Performance. The song, which features vocals by Lalah Hathaway and a spoken word poem by Malcolm-Jamal Warner, is dedicated to the victims of the Sandy Hook

Before This World,” a behind-the-scenes documentary about the making of the album on DVD.

Recorded at his home studio TheBarn, in Washington, Taylor enlisted the long-time members of his band for the sessions including bassist Jimmy Johnson, drummer Steve Gadd, guitarist Michael Landau, keyboardist Larry Goldings, percussionist Luis Conte, fiddler and vocalist Andrea Zonn and vocalists Arnold McCuller, David Lasley and Kate Markowitz. Taylor also called on close friends Yo-Yo Ma and Sting to add their remarkable talent to the new album, (Ma’s cello is heard on “You And I Again” and “Before This World”; Sting added vocals to “Before This World.”) Additionally, Taylor’s wife Kim and son Henry sing harmony on “Angels Of Fenway” and the classic folk tune “Wild Mountain Thyme.”

Offering heartfelt reflection and insight from a life well lived, Taylor traces the road’s healing allure (“Stretch of the Highway”), revisits themes of recovery, (“Watchin’ Over Me”), offers a song for agnostics (“Before This

World”), looks at love’s mystical properties (“You And I Again”) as well as the redemptive spirit of baseball (“Angels Of Fenway”), and the beginning of his remarkable journey, (“Today Today Today”), the album’s first track.

“When I set out to record a new song, I have an idea, in my mind’s ear, of how it should sound,” he explains in the album’s liner notes.

One of the defining musical figures of our time, Taylor continues to express himself and touch our lives with the enduring songs he creates.

Tracklisting:1. Today Today Today (3:09)2. You And I Again (3:53)3. Angels Of Fenway (3:18)4. Stretch Of The Highway (5:32)5. Montana (3:26)6. Watchin’ Over Me (4:07)7. SnowTime (5:48)8. Before This World / Jolly Springtime (5:34)9. Far Afghanistan (4:04)10. Wild Mountain Thyme (2:57)

Five-time GRAMMY Award winner James Taylor will release Before This World

on June 15. This is the legendary singer/songwriter’s first album of new songs since 2002’s platinum-selling October Road. Produced by Grammy Award-winner Dave O’Donnell, Before This World features ten songs, nine of which are brand new James Taylor compositions.

In addition, the special 2-Disc CD/DVD Before This World Deluxe Edition includes the full-length album on CD plus “There We Were: The Recording of James Taylor’s

Singer/Songwriter James Taylor announces Before This World

Robert Glasper returns with “Covered”

Glasper trio featuring Vicente Archer & Damion Reid opens week-long run at the famed Village Vanguard in NYC

Robert Glasper

editor’snote

Mid-year is officially here and it’s also the month where 1Malaysia Sales begin all across Malaysia and it

would be interesting to know if there is indeed a good offer out there since the implementation of GST. June is also the month where our Muslim friends begin their month-long fast. As I repeat every year – “Moderation is the key word here”.

On the music front, iconic singer / song writer – James Taylor brings us his first album in 13 years and Robert Glasper has announced a return to his acclaimed acoustic jazz trio for his new album - “Covered”. Rose brings you the second part of the four powerful things to do in relationship and get ready to be spooked when Insidious: Chapter 3 by Sony Pictures makes it to the big screens this June!

This time we bring you a special feature on Chef Eddy of Thistle Johor Bahru where his magical skills (culinary wise) speaks for itself under our “Go local, Eat local and Stay local” travel column. As for our must eat; Tony brings us great new choices from The Marco Polo Kitchen. Be sure to check it out.

As always, for those wishing to share their fashion collection, travel tales, or like us to review your restaurant/property, drop me an e-mail at [email protected] and be featured. For more reads, do access www.theiskandarian.com

Wishing all our Muslim readers a blessed Ramadan Kareem!

Priya [email protected]

Priya

Source:Universal Music Singapore

MUSIC UPDATES

Elementary School shooting in Newtown, Connecticut.

The Experiment’s 2012 album Black Radio laid out a new paradigm for creative music, reaching beyond entrenched genre boundaries to create a singular vision that drew from all reaches of contemporary black music and beyond. The album also won the 2013 GRAMMY Award for Best R&B Album.

Glasper has also been named an official Steinway Artist, joining a select group of world-class pianists who have chosen to perform exclusively on The Family of Steinway-Designed pianos. As a Steinway Artist, Glasper joins a roster of some of the most dynamic names in piano, including Billy Joel, Lang Lang, Diana Krall, Jason Moran, and Harry Connick, Jr. Additionally, Glasper has been hard at work composing the original music for the Miles Davis film Miles Ahead, which is currently in production.


Four Powerful Things to Do in a Relationship (pt II)

I Own You is a destructive belief in any relationships. The feeling of ownership derives from the role we play as parents, lover, husband or wife. This feeling also leads to jealousy

and the need to conquer the other person’s entire being. When we choose a relationship, we actually ask the other person (indirectly) to walk with us in all levels of our life. This higher level request we make comes with noble respect, but we fail to see it because the moment we step into the relationship, we start to play our roles unconsciously.

These roles are impermanent and are

only on the surface of a relationship. What we should do is to honour each other in a much deeper level. Understand that the other person we are spending our life with agrees to be here to accompany us. That’s all we can offer and accept. We certainly cannot own what we don’t have in the first place.

Respect and compromise should be given to the other person at all times. When a person made a decision to spend his/her life with us, therefore, the person is willing to compromise many things in order to bring harmony into the relationship. However, harmony is a two-way road.

When one is willing to compromise, the other should do the same. Compromise is an act of love too. When we compromise, we are giving space for the other person to grow the way he/she is supposed to grow.

The best way is by practising all the methods together. Willingness to learn from each other is the best gift we can give to our relationship. Practise to observe the ego in ourselves and others without labelling it as good or bad. Then communicate about all the experiences with each other so the interchange of energies, love and wisdom can take place easily in our relationship.

By Rose Osman

yourpersonalmotivatorBucketOfRoses

Personal Motivator & Energy Coach

Motivation

A Energy Coach, A Reiki Master and A Personal Motivator.Rose Osman uses her knowledge in energy and Reiki to help people achieve their goals in personal growth, life, love, career & relationships.

MoViE pREViEW

SynopsisThe newest chapter in the terrifying horror series is written and directed by franchise co-creator Leigh Whannell. This chilling prequel, set before the haunting of the Lambert family, reveals how gifted psychic Elise Rainier (Lin Shaye) reluctantly agrees to use her ability to contact the dead in order to help a teenage girl (Stefanie Scott) who has been targeted by a dangerous supernatural entity.

Insidious: Chapter 3

Genre: Horror

Malaysia release date: 4th June 2015

Rating: na

Cast: Dermot Mulroney, Stefanie Scott, Lin Shaye, Angus Sampson, Leigh Whannell

Director: Leigh Whannell

Producer: na Executive Producer: na

Written by: Leigh Whannell

*credits not final

Source :Sony Pictures Malaysia

Oasis restaurant in Thistle Johor Bahru is synonymous with its pool side and lush garden view setting giving it an exquisite

dining experience. Previously famous for its Japanese and Italian cuisine, but currently this fashionable diner breaks new grounds with innovative Italian cuisines through Executive Chef Eddy Yap who revamped their menu to give diners more choices.

Chef Eddy who is originally from Penang had moved to JB since young. It can be said that he comes from a family of chefs as his mother was a chef at a restaurant and his dad specialises in Nyonya cooking and his two other brothers are also chefs – so it kind of runs in the blood!

His love for cooking actually started in 1989 when his brother became a chef and took him to Singapore to be a kitchen help at Oriental Singapore. In his time, Chef Eddy took part in various food competitions in Penang and Singapore and won notable medals particularly in the “Live hot cooking” section.

Although it has been only five months at Thislte, he has created magic with his dishes and his Italian creations are a big hit among diners. Among the featured cooking style is the slow cooking or braising method as opposed to vacuum style cooking. Signature dishes are mainly the Lamb Shank and Beef Goulash, a Hungarian Dish. The traditional approach to cooking has now been reintroduced in Thistle! Slow cooking makes the meat nice and tender and would melt in your mouth.

Being in Thistle has given him a lot of freedom to change the menu. Chef Eddy says, “I take guests’ opinion seriously. I once changed the layout of the buffet between hot and cold dishes and it started to interest the guests as - “We first eat with our eyes”!

The dishes to look out for currently is the signature dishes such as the Braised

Lamb Shank, Pan Seared Australian Beef Tenderloin, Succulent Barbecue Beef Spare Ribs, Pasta Aglio Olio and the thin crust Hawaiian Pizza at the Oasis Restaurant.

There is an Italian Dinner Buffet every Fridays at Oasis and priced RM88 nett for adults and RM44 nett for children aged 6-12. Besides that, the hotel has “Flavours of Malaysia” lunch buffet daily, priced RM 68.00 nett for adults and RM 30 nett for children below 12 at the Fresh Restaurant located in the lobby.

On 21st of June which is Father’s Day, Thistle will have an International Buffet and some father’s favourites such as Sup Kambing, Roasted Peking Duck, Duck Soup with salted vegetables and more will be prepared for fathers’ to indulge in.


JB, 6th June 2015

JB, 11th - 13th June 2015


18th June 2015 (t.b.c)

Spore, 20th June 2015


21st June 2015

JB, 28th May - 7th June 2015

JB, 27th - 31st Aug 2015

Spore, June - July 2015

Spore, 5th - 16th June 2015

• Agong’s Birthday

• Johor Treasure Hunt @ Muar

• Penawar Pengerang Run @ Bandar Penawar KT

SEA Games - Singapore

JB Film Festival 2015 @ MMU Nusajaya

Medini Live Festival at Mall of Medini

Start of Ramadan

Dragon Boat Festival - Singapore

Islamic Lifestyle Expo @ Danga City Mall

Father’s Day

Big Bad Wolf Book Sale @ EXPO Danga City Mall

1Malaysia Mega Sale Carnival

Great Singapore Sale

Calendar of Events

June2015

If you need more information on the above mentioned events,

drop us an email at:[email protected]

go localeat localstay local

An oasis within the CityWeekend is approaching and you have no plans and don’t wish to go far but yet want to enjoy good food and ambi-ence?

Not a mirage

Agnello Brasato di Stico di Ossobuco - Braised Lamb Shank Ample

Succulente Barbecue Costola di Manzo di Ricambio - Succulent Barbecue Beef Spare Ribs

Pan di Manzo Scottato Filetto - Pan Seared Australian Beef Tenderloin Chef Eddy with his signature dishes

Thistle Johor Bahru, Jalan Sungai Chat, Johor Bahru. Tel : 07-222 9234

liveFREE COPYThe Iskandarian ISSUE 34 | JUNE 2015


The concept of a Smart Healthy City is in line with many other concepts with differing names and focus aspects, one is as good as the other.

Rather than concentrating on the differences, we should instead look at the aspirations and strive for the practical realisation of the intended outcome – to improve the community’s quality of life and sustaining it. This guide shall help assess the readiness of aspects of the Smart Healthy City for every targeted community and assist the project proponents to strategise the way forward for each aspect:

1. Increasing Smart and Healthy City Awareness

Successful projects must work together in order to achieve the principles of good quality of life and health for all and understanding of the meaning of their application in practice. Efforts to increase awareness and understanding of these issues must be comprehensive, visible, consistent and continuous.

1.1 Accessibility1. The location and work style of the

project are visible for the general public to create awareness.

2. Source of information are readily accessible and easily available.

3. Personnel are courteous and helpful; the basis for continuing communication is established.

4. Business meetings are open to the public as a way of being accessible.

1.2 Information access1. Raise awareness by producing

information on health issues that is interesting, provocative and useful.

2. Continuous improvement in the form of in content and format that is attractive, innovative and previously not available.

3. This requires assembling data from several different sources, carrying out a different kind of analysis and finding new ways of reaching people.

1.3 Campaigns1. Raise awareness by associating

with highly visible publicity campaigns.

2. They deal with lifestyle issues such as fitness or nutrition.

3. Campaign is undertaken by another organisation with project co-sponsorship and support.

1.4 Audits1. Audits involve systematic

review of programmes in city departments to identify their present and potential contribution to the outcome.

2. The results of the review are presented in booklet form or in a display for location in public areas.

3. They sensitize city workers as well as the public to the implications of their programmes for quality of life.

1.5 Neighbourhood action1. Local initiatives supported

by the project contribute to visibility if they are selected to produce immediate, clear and practical results.Examples are neighbourhood clean ups, local garden projects and changes in local services such as refuse collection.

1.6 Sponsorship1. Raise awareness by sponsoring

contests or events through which organisations in the community are recognised for their contributions to health. Examples are Smart & Healthy Cities & Communities designations or awards through which public buildings are identified as being accessible for people with disabilities or restaurants are acknowledged for having smoke-free areas and menus that recognise.

1.7 Media Relations1. Traditional and new media

provide valuable access to the community.

2. Good working relationships with the media require openness, accessibility and a supply of newsworthy stories.

3. Ready professionals who are skilled at media relations.

The Aspects of a Smart Healthy City

HappeningsSharing with you the happenings of Iskandar Malaysia’s Smart Healthy City & Communities

recap

Southern Downhill Challenge at Bandar Seri Alam Exciting

Traditional games being introduced during the recent JB Car Free DayCar Free



live20

HE Harry Molenaar and Captain Razali observe how the RescueSim software is used

Strengthening ties with Netherlands

The Malaysian Dutch Business Council (MDBC) to further facilitate investments in both Malaysia and Netherlands

Highlight

TI

The Malaysian Dutch Business Council (MDBC) established in 1996, is a private, trade

organisation with over 200 member companies. It is considered one of the most active councils in Kuala Lumpur and Malaysia as a whole.

They recently organised a comprehensive 2-Day fact-finding trip to Johor Bahru which was focused on Pengerang and Nusajaya.

Besides forging and fostering business ties between Malaysia and the Netherlands, the visit aimed to learn about the current and future developments in the Iskandar Malaysia region.

MDBC took the opportunity to see the developments and meet the key players at Pengerang Integrated Petroleum Complex (PIPC). Accompanying the trip were MDBC colleagues DutchCham Singapore, as well as Netherlands Embassies KL and Singapore, HE Harry Molenaar and HE Jacques Werner.

MDBC brought the trip to Netherlands Maritime Institute of Technology (NMIT) for the trip. As a Malaysian Dutch private higher learning institution, NMIT were honoured to welcome the delegates to the institute.

The visit to NMIT was enlightening as the delegates were brought around for a tour of the institute and were present for the launch and presentation of the new simulator system, “RescueSim - Incident Command Simulator”.

Present for the launching ceremony of the RescueSim were NMIT Founder Captain Razali Yaacob and Head of NMIT Incident Command Simulation Centre Major Shuhaimi Shahidan.

“We are still new in this region but we can see a lot of development around us and especially the ones that we can relate with like in Pengerang and Nusajaya. NMIT has the facilities and

know-how that if possible, with help from other industries and catalysts in the region, it can be utilised for the development and operation of the maritime industry and facilities in the region,” said Captain Razali.

NMIT believes that one of the pillars of attaining global competitiveness in the maritime industry is developing adequate and well-trained human capital. It now offers Diploma in Maritime Transport Management, Port Management and Shipping Management. Other than Diploma courses, NMIT will soon offer short courses that include Occupational Safety and Health, Management Simulator and the list goes on.

Seri Alam plants 1000 trees

A total of 1000 trees were planted under the Hutan Kita initiative to green Iskandar

Malaysia at Taman Tasik Bandar Seri Alam, Masai. Over 400 residents from Bandar Seri Alam were joined by staff from IRDA, UMLand and Landskap Malaysia.

Launched by Tun Jeanne Abdullah, Chairman of Landskap Malaysia, the event helped strengthen the commitment towards a low carbon society for Iskandar Malaysia.

“I hope to see a park that is filled with vibrant activities for families and its utilities being well maintained by its users,” said Tun Jeanne when asked by The

Iskandarian on her aspirations for the park.

Seri Alam Properties, a subsidiary of UMLand was represented by Executive Directors Dennis Ng and Freddie Lee.

“Our development projects emphasise a concept that blends in perfect harmony with the natural environment, surrounded by green open spaces and beautiful landscapes and Hutan Kita programme fits perfectly with our direction,” said Freddie.

The slight drizzle didn’t dampen the day as residents and community leaders came out in full force to ensure the success of the programme.

Hutan Kita @ Bandar Seri Alam was graced by Tun Abdullah Ahmad Badawi and Tun Jeanne Abdullah

Highlight

Pak Lah and Tun Jeanne officiate the ‘Hutan Kita’ initiaitve at Bandar Seri Alam

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workFREE COPYThe Iskandarian ISSUE 34 | JUNE 2015


The thought of launching a startup can be both exhilarating and anxiety inducing at the same time.

But once you have your concept and your finances in line, there are a bunch of basic things that every entrepreneur should take into consideration before surging forward.

Do bear in mind that the checklist provided here is merely a guide and further research is needed before launching your own startup.

Know your demand

“Chase the vision, not the money; the money will end up following you.” –Tony Hsieh, Zappos CEO

One of the biggest mistakes new entrepreneurs make is starting to work on a startup before confirming if there is a market demand. If your startup intends to sell a 2 feet ladder, make sure that the world actually needs a 2 feet ladder to begin with. Remember that the blue ocean and the red ocean are both part of the same sea, so save yourself a lot of trouble by doing a reality check first before commencing. If there is a need for your product, then make sure the people are willing to pay for it. Market research proves especially

critical for startups with big dreams. If you’re aiming to become a billion-dollar business, take steps to ensure that the market can satisfy your aspirations.

Plan, plan and plan

“Your work is going to fill a large part of your life, and the only way to be truly satisfied is to do what you believe is great work. And the only way to do great work is to love what you do.” –Steve Jobs, Co-Founder, Chairman and CEO, Apple

Successful startups will expect the unexpected and have counter measures in place beforehand. The plans should range from your startup’s mission right to its business structure. Identify a core mission and vision and make sure your entire team knows about it. Business structure plans will encompass knowing whether to start a sole-propriety, SDN BHD or a Limited Liability Partnership (LLP/PLT) company and understanding tax structures. When budgeting startup’s cash needs, assume your business will generate zero revenue for the first year but you still have to cover rent, utilities, inventory and salaries.

Get your team right

Life is about making an impact, not making an income. –Kevin Kruse

The most critical step in the evolution of your startup is assembling a team that works well together and can deliver the goods. Your teammates need to share your ideas about how the business should be run. If you bring on employees and partners, and you agree upon common values, you can use those values to make decisions. Businesses exist to build and sell product, so make sure your team remembers that all the time.

Respond to feedback

Every strike brings me closer to the next home run. –Babe Ruth

Enquire and solicit feedback from clients and experts to fine tune your business. For start-up entrepreneurs, the need to constantly think along the lines of our business approach is essential. Do realise that not all feedback should be treated as gold but there’s no harm in just gathering the response.

The pre Startup Checklist

Know Your Demand

Plan, Plan,

& Plan

Respond to

Feedback

Read Startup

Tips!

Get you team right

investFREE COPYThe Iskandarian ISSUE 34 | JUNE 2015


T wo weeks ago, I attended a charity run in town and throughout my observation of the crowd’s behavior and the run; I can feel

running is similar like investing. Here’s how you can relate to both and become a wiser investor:

Training / PreparationRegardless of your age, you’d always see experienced runners doing warm-up exercises before the run. That’s what we can see before the run starts, but what we cannot see is the weeks and months of training before the day comes.

This is no different from investing. Runners train their body before a run; investors invest in themselves through reading books or attending courses. This is because they know investing is a total different skill set compared to their profession, whether you’re a doctor, accountant or a business owner.

Consistency is the KeyOnce you hear the whistle, you can see people start running with excitement. Amusingly, you can also see many people run pretty fast at the beginning, but soon they run out of steam and start to slow down. On the contrary, you’d see some start running steadily, and gradually increasing their speed and build their momentum. Eventually, they become the medal winners.

In investment, if you’re trying to make a fast buck, you’d tend to make impulsive decision and as a result, you’d lose money fast. However, if you’d allow yourself to start steadily and aim to achieve consistent results, you’re building yourself a solid foundation. For this reason, your return will become consistent.

Knowing yourselfOne of the challenges during a run is that you’d come to a point where you’d feel out of breath especially running uphill. You may want to slow down a little and once the uphill part is over, you may resume your speed. If you push yourself too hard without taking hints given by your body, you’d also run out of stamina and lose momentum.

The uphill is like the market or stock downtrend; where the share price could go below your entry price. You start feeling the stress, and you have no idea how low it’ll go. Instead of doing nothing, be proactive and execute your plan. It could be selling

t h e share if it has

gone down more than 5% - 8% or more.

The key is that you need to know yourself, especially your risk

appetite.

Have a visionIt’s very obvious that everyone in the marathon knows where the finishing line is; so just follow the crowd. But let’s say if you want to be the first 5% who reach the finishing line, can you just follow the ‘crowd’? To know which road to take, the best thing is to look at the running roadmap in advance.

In investment, if you always buy what most people are buying, then you’d be getting what most people are getting, which is losing money. Having a vision of knowing where you’ll be going would help you focus throughout your journey. For example, if you have a vision of getting an average of 20% return per year, you’d know that you can double your capital in four years; triple in seven years and increase your wealth 50 times in 22 years! Yes, this is the power of compounding! Having this ‘roadmap’ in mind would help you behave more rationally and consistently.

In conclusion, investing is like running a marathon. If you’re yet to be a marathon runner or investor, it’s time to join the fun and start learning first and don’t rush into getting fast results. Instead, start steadily and aim for consistency. Remember: Consistent results come from consistent behavior.

Accumulating Wealth

Binyuen is the founder of BY Enrich Resources and the author of ‘Life beyond the Comfort Zone’. He’ll be conducting a mini workshop ‘Turn Stock Market as your ATM Machine’ on 12 June 2015. Collect this article to exchange a ticket worth RM20 for FREE. Reach his team at: [email protected]

Tey Bin Yuen

Investment

Investing is like Running a Marathon

playFREE COPYThe Iskandarian ISSUE 34 | JUNE 2015


What is Ayurveda?

Ayurveda (pronounced eye-yur-vay-dha) is the way of life that enables you to create harmony in daily life by applying self- knowledge and self-care. The word, Ayurveda, is from the ancient Sanskrit language and literally means “Knowledge of Life”. Inherent in Ayurvedic principles is the concept that you are capable of taking charge of your own life and healing according to the universal forces.

The Ayurvedic approach to life is based on the concept of considering human body as an equipment to perform higher functions, it involves listening to and addressing the unique needs of your body, recognising and balancing your mental and emotional state while deepening your connection with your spirit.

It all begins with Knowing you...Ayurveda recognises three main energies that combine to form all things in the universe. They are recognised as being fundamental to all life and are seen in the processes of growth, maintenance and degenerate. Their actions could be named anabolism, metabolism, and catabolism in the western sciences. All these energies and are found in our environments at every moment on every level.

These energies combine in limitless ways to create the unique qualities of each individual. When you become aware of these qualities within yourself, you take the first steps toward creating a healthy life. Ayurveda assists you in identifying

these energies in your body and shows you how to more fully experience their gifts and to gain freedom from their limitations. By working with the body’s unique nature, you are able to create true health.

Ayurveda names these basic energies Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. In the Ayurvedic approach to life and health, we recognise how these energies are at work at each moment in our bodies and minds.

How does this work? With Ayurveda, we acknowledge that beneficial daily habits are different for each person, because each person is a unique combination of these three energies. Everybody has all three energies- though people experience each of them to a greater or lesser degree. Ayurveda can be a mirror that reflects our true nature and maps out the path for a return to the lives of vitality that we are meant to have.

Once you are familiar with this, you can bring balance to the body through the foods you eat and how you eat them, daily practices including exercise, rest and massage, and five-sense therapies utilisng colour, aroma, taste, touch, and sounds.

A healthy body, healthy mind and healthy society may be achieved through Ayurveda. There are introductory classes on Ayurvedic principles and how you can apply these principles to live a fully balanced life. Ayurveda is an affordable, accessible daily practice for creating health and harmony in your body and in your environment. Once you begin to incorporate these principles in your daily activities, you will see positive benefits in

every aspect of your life. Ayurveda is applicable to every

living thing, as implied by its name, the science of life. Vedic sciences attribute

life to more things than we normally do - the things such as air, wind, fire, the earth, planets, stars, etc. are all thought to possess conscience like living beings.

Ayurbumi...



play

johoR kAki

I was recently invited to a tasting at The Marco Polo Kitchen (MP) in Bukit Indah, Johor Bahru. The spacious interior was simple

yet distinctive. It was bright, clean and there was ample room for customers. I liked the stylish “raw” brick wall and high ceiling.

MP has an extensive (mostly) Italian menu. I sampled

some of their starters, pastas and pizzas, and liked the food here. As there were too many dishes, I am sharing a few here with the readers.

We started with MP Cream of Mushroom Soup (RM11.99++). The soup was creamy, savoury and sweet with spongy soft chopped mushrooms, onion and garlic.

Next was the Pumpkin Salad (RM19.99++). Personally, I am not big on salads but this pumpkin salad was delightful. The pumpkin was roasted till it was like a sweet golden pudding and definitely a good try.

Bruschetta (RM13.99++) – is another favourite starter. The crispy and light house-made baguette was well infused with savoury basil garlic butter flavour. The baguette’s savoury flavour and crackly texture was well balanced by the refreshing sweetness from the pulpy, juicy cubed tomatoes.

I went on to try a few mains such as the Angel Hair Prawn Aglio Olio (RM18.99++). The al dente pasta simply dressed with garlic and olive oil is all it takes to keep me happy. This spaghetti had a few

shelled fresh prawns and chili flakes for added crunch, flavour and spicy kick.

Another must try main is the Seafood Paella (RM36.99++). The risotto rice was nutty with shelled prawns, squid and mussels held together by a thick flavourful sauce of melted cheese, tomatoes, olive oil and etc. I liked the soft nutty texture of the risotto rice and robust flavours of this paella; couldn’t resist taking

mouthful after mouthful. It’s a nice rendition of the Spanish staple at a reasonable price.

The deserts at MP were really good too and I made room to try the classic Tiramisu and Crème Brulee.

Next time, I shall try their steak, fish and burger and take some time to taste their speciality coffee. Overall, I felt that The Marco Polo Kitchen serves good quality, delicious food at reasonable prices.

Angel Hair Prawn Aglio Olio

Marco Polo’s Signature Dish – Seafood Paella

Tony is a very passionate Johor food blogger. He is fascinated by Johor’s unique culinary heritage created by its melting pot of diverse cultures. He hopes that his writings about the delightful experiences with Johor food and the people behind it, visitors from around the world will appreciate the potpourri of Johor culinary art.

Restaurant name: The Marco Polo KitchenAddress: No. 35, Jalan Indah 15/2, Taman Bukit Indah, Johor, Johor Bahru, MalaysiaMap: http://bit.ly/MarcoPoloKitchenGPS: 1.482513, 103.660577Hours: Mon - Thu: 11:30 am - 11:00 pm | Fri: 11:30 am - 2:00 am | Sat: 10:00 am - 2:00 am | Sun: 10:00 am - 11:00 pmNo pork, no lard, no Halal cert

LOCATION

Marco Polo’s Bruschetta

The Marco Polo Kitchen

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playFREE COPYThe Iskandarian ISSUE 34 | JUNE 2015


Remember the guy dressed up as Captain America and gone viral on social media riding around Johor Bahru

town on his Ducati bike? Yes, he’s back in town and this time he popped over at AEON Tebrau City for a meet and greet session with the children from 3 foster homes.

Kimberly Lee Tan from the Philippines who humbly said that he’s working as an instructor at REPS Fitness; a fitness gym located in Taman Nong Chik, Johor Bahru, puts on his Captain America mask,

tailor-made jacket, boots and the replica shield which he ordered from the USA to surprise the kids right before their movie started.

The outing was planned by Rotary Club of Johor Centennial with help from the Johor Ducati Club. Starting off with a lunch-date with the children at McDonalds by the Rotary Club, they then continued at TGV Cinemas, AEON Tebrau City to catch the new Avengers movie, Age of Ultron sponsored by the Ducati Club.

Children from Berkat Home, Bethel’s Children Care and the youth from the Dunamis Deliverence Ministry were ecstatic upon the sight of their hero, Captain America on location. They were exceptionally excited because the appearance of Captain America happened just before they were going to catch the new Avengers movie.

“It was Mother’s Day weekend and I was thinking, how about the kids? They don’t have mothers. I just want to show them

love and hope,” said Kim.Kim has always been a fan of

the Marvel Comic Universe (MCU) and his favourite has always and obviously been Captain America from the Avengers.

At first, Kim only did it for fun. He promised his Ducati mates

that he would dress up as Captain America when coming for his next bike service and indeed he held his promise. His popularity grew from the moment he was spotted around the streets of Johor Bahru while on his way to send his bike for servicing.

Kim told The Iskandarian

his thoughts and future plans, “Who would have known that this was going to be a thing? I still have some upgrades to work on this costume. I also will be gearing up for the premier of the new Star Wars movie. As for what costume I will be wearing then, it’s a surprise.”

Captain America Saves the Day! Highlight 52 kids from 3 homes enjoyed a fun-filled day at McDonalds, a

trip to the cinema to catch the new Avengers movie and a surprise visit from Captain America

Interest LEGOLAND Malaysia Resort celebrated May the Fourth with LEGO Star Wars Days, a whole month of Star Wars themed celebrations

All the kids, Rotary Club members and Ducati Club strike a pose with Captain America himself

The 501st Legion Malaysia Outpost and Star Wars Malaysia Alliance members

TI

May the Fourth Be With YOU!

Synonymous with the line from the movie, “May the force be with you”, the Star Wars phenomenon is and has always been aptly celebrated on May

the Fourth every year. This year, throughout the month of

May, LEGOLAND Resort Malaysia extended the festivities at the Park with the LEGO Star Wars month where fans and families alike indulged in their love of Star Wars.

Visitors participated in activities that include building LEGO Star Wars Microfighters, put together a LEGO Star Wars Mosaic mural and have photo opportunities at the special LEGO Star Wars photo wall. Guests were also entertained with LEGO Star Wars movies and took part in LEGO Star Wars themed workshops.

The celebrations kicked-off with an Imperial March led by the 501st Legion Malaysia Outpost and Star Wars Malaysia Alliance members dressed in their favourite characters from the famous movie series.

During the celebration weekend, winners of the various categories for the four-month long Star Wars themed LEGO MY Own Creation (MOC) competition was also

announced. Winners received LEGO Star Wars systems and a certificate of appreciation.

Earlier in the months of January to March, LOM (LUG of Malaysia) a leading LEGO fan group in Malaysia held a competition where LEGO and Star Wars fans all over Asia were invited to submit their Star Wars themed LEGO model creations. The winning creations will be displayed at the various selected locations in the Park until August 2015.

First 500 fans who showed up early dressed as their favourite Star Wars characters walked away with special goodie bags containing a LEGOLAND Malaysia Resort shopping voucher worth RM100, an exclusive LEGO Star Wars Stormtrooper

Sergeant Minifigure, LEGO Star Wars Microfighter set and special LEGO Star Wars key-chains.

“The Resort is delighted to celebrate May the Fourth with more fanfare than before. The LEGO fans truly added a special touch with the various activities for the Park visitors. The celebrations will continue to be an annual event since the opening of our fully air-conditioned LEGO Star Wars Miniland model display last year,” said Mark Germyn, General Manager of LEGOLAND Malaysia Resort.

May the 4th Imperial March All the winners of the LEGO MOC Competition with GM Mark Germyn


TI

P R O P E R T Y I N S I G H Thome@

PROPERTY | RESIDENTIAL PROJECTS | APARTMENTS | VILLAS | CONDOMINIUMS | OFFICE/ RETAILSPACE

27 FREE COPYThe Iskandarian ISSUE 34 | JUNE 2015

Menteri Besar Dato’ Mohamed Khaled Nordin officiated the celebrations alongside UMLand’s Chairman Tun Musa Hitam & UMLand’s top brass

Cover: UMLand celebrates UMCity Medini Lakeside Groundbreaking

pg 29

plusMah Sing Group Berhad launched their city sales gallery in Sierra Perdana Connect with us on

FacebookRead this article on our website



home@29

Approvals to build serviced apartments in Johor will be postponed from this year as a step towards countering oversupply in the market.

Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin said the postponement is to allow the department of town and country planning to draft guidelines to address the issue.

Kimlun Corp Bhd has signed an agreement to purchase 140.8 acres of land worth RM 28.3mil in Kota Tinggi, and plans to develop it into a residential property project. Located 2km from Kota Tinggi town, the agricultural land will be converted to residential status after acquisition.

Glomac Bhd, which is launching a RM710mil mixed housing project in Bukit Batu, Johor, in a joint venture with Kumpulan Prasarana Rakyat Johor (KPRJ), is calling for state governments to follow Johor’s lead in keeping development charges and land premiums low. Glomac and KPRJ is building 1,705 terrace houses on a 70.5 ha in Bukit Batu, Kulai.

Sungai Danga, one of the most polluted rivers in the state is poised to undergo a facelift with the first development phase of the River City@Danga project here valued at RM2.5 billion.

The project being developed by Riverside Terra Sdn Bhd, a wholly owned subsidiary of Iskandar Waterfront Sdn Bhd, focuses on clean-up and beautification efforts to turn the river into a ‘Venice of the East’ and make it a renowned riverine tourism destination.

Serviced apartment projects halted

Kimlun looks at Kota Tinggi

Keep charges low

Venice-style project

Quick Reads

We all want financial freedom but what is financial freedom? It

varies from person to person and some say, it’s when passive income surpasses living expenses or when there’s no debt to pay. Another says it’s when one does not have to work.

All are correct. The journey to financial freedom has many routes. It’s like climbing a mountain but what you have to bear in mind is to get two important insurances,

i.e. medical and debt cancellation plans.

How to choose a medical plan?

a. Make sure it’s renewable at your option. You don’t want a plan where the insurer kicks you out when the next premium is due.

b. Ensure that there are no internal limits, where different illnesses are subjected to different coverage. What one wants is the same coverage for all kinds of illness. In a nutshell, don’t take a policy that discriminates.

c. Choose whether you want a plan that has deductible or co-insurance. Deductible is where your liability is fixed, while co-insurance is where you absorb a percentage of the bills.

d. Decide whether you want medical coverage that grows with inflation or a coverage that remains stagnant. What RM100k can do today is not the same as what RM100k could do 20 years ago.

MRTA or MLTAThe next insurance that’s important is known as Debt Cancellation. Many people take this when they buy property, where an option to take an MRTA (Mortgage Reducing Term Assurance) is given.

Here’s the problem, most people don’t know that MLTA (Mortgage Level Term Assurance) is also available.

The MRTA will reduce in accordance with the outstanding loan while MLTA remains the same level even though the loan amount may fall. For those who intend to purchase more than one property,

MLTA is preferred as the same policy could be used to cover 2 separate loans.

Also important when choosing MRTA/MLTA, is whether one wants to cover only Death and Disability or want to add the Optional 36 Critical Illness cover. I usually advice that the 36 CI be added as the probability of falling ill is far superior to just dying.

ConclusionWhen taking MRTA/MLTA, don’t deal with banks. They are specialist lenders and deposit takers. Take it from an insurer as that’s their core business. When you deal with generalists, they don’t give options. More likely than not, they only offer a limited range of choice. Always set your Protection element right and the first step of Financial Freedom has started.

Investment CornerReal life case studies Medical & Debt Cancellation

Deva is a partner in the firm of Dason & Dason, Chartered Accountants who specialises in tax advisory and consultancy. He can be reached at [email protected]

A.Devadason CA(M), FCCA, MDRT

United Malayan Land Bhd (UMLand) today held a groundbreaking celebration for UMCity Medini Lakeside,

its premiere mixed integrated development in Medini Iskandar, with award-wining builder Samsung C&T.

The ceremony was officiated by Dato’ Mohamed Khaled Nordin, Chief Minister of Johor and marked the beginning of construction works at the 5-acre development which fronts a beautiful landscaped lake park. Also in attendance were His Excellency Carlos Domínguez Díaz, Ambassador of Spain to Malaysia, His Excellency Suh Chung-Ha, Ambassador of the Republic of Korea to Singapore, and Chi Hun Choi, the President and CEO of Samsung C&T Corporation.

This is a significant milestone for UMLand in positioning itself to become the lifestyle developer of quality products in all their projects. UMCity is UMLand’s award-winning flagship mixed commercial development with a Gross Development Value (GDV) of RM1.2bil in Medini Iskandar. Its UMCity Office Tower was named the Best Office Development at the recent Asia Pacific Property Awards which was held in early May 2015.

In his officiating speech, Dato’ Mohamed Khaled Nordin said, “UMLand’s UMCity development reflects the highest level of confidence in the efforts to position Medini as the preferred destination

for investment. This catalyst development will become the new nexus in Medini, bridging the lifestyle components to Medini’s fast growing business components”.

The groundbreak ing celebration also witnessed the welcoming onboard of a new partner from Spain for UMCity - Roca, which is renowned for their complete bathroom solutions. UMCity also announced that AECOM, an internationally acclaimed multidisciplinary design company was responsible for the design of the Medini Lakeside public park. This partnership will be setting the benchmark in quality service in Medini Iskandar.

Earlier this year, UMLand cemented strategic alliances with established and international brands such as The Ascott Limited, ONYX Hospitality Group, Samsung S-1 Corporation, and Regus for the same development. With Samsung C&T headquartered in Korea as the main contractor for the UMCity project, the UMCity development is well en route to assured quality and timely delivery.

“We are honoured to be part of the UMCity Medini Lakeside project,” said Chi Hun Choi, the President and CEO of Samsung C&T. He added, “We look forward to continuing our support for Malaysia’s development, having participated in large scale projects including Petronas Twin Towers. We are certain that by working closely together with

our trusted partners, the project will be successful”.

Upon completion in 2018, UMCity will be the home to the renowned brands of Citadines, Shama, OZO, and Regus, with Samsung as the comprehensive solutions provider. With these brands onboard, UMCity has one of the most comprehensive international collaborations in a mixed development in Iskandar Malaysia.

UMLand Group CEO, Datuk

Charlie Chia said, “Positioned as the commercial hub in Medini, UMCity is a one of its kind waterfront mixed integrated development designed for a vibrant community living and work. UMLand is a long established developer, and we are continuously striving to push boundaries while creating quality lifestyles and communities. This is especially true for UMCity which is poised to become a world-class commercial hub in Iskandar”.

UMCity shows off Lakeside Development Benchmark Groundbreaking at Award-Winning UMCity Medini

Lakeside by UMLand and Samsung C&T Corporation

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UMCity Medini Lakeside artist impression

homeFREE COPYThe Iskandarian ISSUE 34 | JUNE 2015


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GENSHI 15: Smart and Healthy Lifestyle

Generasi Sihat & Hijau 2015 (GENSHI 15’) is one of Rumah Iskandar Malaysia’s (RIM) initiatives towards the Green and Healthy Community and Development which is in line with the Low Carbon Society Blueprint for Iskandar Malaysia.

The programme aims to promote RIM as a Smart Healthy City Township and as a Smoke Free Zone in line with Johor State Health Department’s (JKNJ) vision of Johor Bebas Asap Rokok.

Also, fruit trees were planted around the vicinity to add to the

green landscape. Other activities such as Strong Man Competition and Pasar Kawan Iskandar Malaysia (KIM) were part of the event.

Datuk Ismail Ibrahim, Chief Executive of Iskandar Regional Development Authority (IRDA) was on location to officiate the launch of the Rumah Iskandar as A Smart Healthy City Township and Rider’s Corner for the cyclist.

A whole day of healthy and green activities in conjunction with the launch of Generasi Sihat & Hijau 2015

Highlight

Mah Sing Group welcomes all to Meridin East with official opening of the city sales gallery at Sierra Perdana

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Exclusive insight by Mah Sing

Meridin East is Mah Sing’s fifth township in Johor and its largest township to-date where it extends

to tap into the Group’s expertise in township master-planning.

Mah Sing recently opened its city sales gallery in Sierra Perdana, one of Mah Sing’s developments in Johor Bahru, showcasing Meridin East to the public.

Guests were treated to an exclusive insight on the township concept and product details by the township planner.

Eager property hunters were also able to register for The Willows, which comprises of double-storey linked homes measuring 18 x 65 sqft in Meridin East. The Willows is the first component to be previewed in the first precinct fondly named CasaEden in Meridin East.

“Iskandar Malaysia is such an astonishing development idea and is being executed very well. Soon we will see so many parts of south Johor become a more developed region and investors will eventually compete for a chance to be a part of it. Meridin East has a great location close to Flagship D which is the Eastern Gate Development region of

Iskandar Malaysia,” explained Vincent Tan, Head of Mah Sing Investment Singapore.

The freehold land has an estimated Gross Development Value of RM5billion and proposed upgrades such as road widening for Jalan Kong Kong, the Rapid Transit System (RTS) and third bridge from Desaru to Changi will further prompt growth of the area.

“Located in the heart of Iskandar Malaysia’s Flagship D, Meridin East sits on 1,313 acres of freehold land situated just about 28km away from Johor Bahru City Centre and the CIQ at Bukit Chagar. In fact, Meridin East is served by four major highways, namely the Pasir

Gudang Highway, Senai-Desaru Expressway, Johor Bahru East Coast Highway and the Eastern Dispersal Link (EDL),” said Ng Chai Yong, Chief Executive Officer of Mah Sing Group Berhad.

Meridin East is designed with an emphasis on the sense of belonging, whereby Mah Sing aims to create an emotion towards “a place called home”.

The township will feature a tapestry of lush natural green landscapes with the blend of modern architecture to provide an ideal neighbourhood recreation experience. For further information, please call +607-3874888 or register at www.meridin-east.com.my.

Premier lifestyle developer, Mah Sing Group Berhad opens its city sales gallery in Sierra Perdana

Interest

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Datuk Ismail with the Happy Riders community at the launch of the Rider’s Corner

Datuk Ismail planting a fruit tree to add to the green landscape

IRDA’s Social Development’s Director Nor Hisham Hussein doing his part



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Ed is the Singapore founder of the Iskandar Malaysia Investors Forum and Rafflesland Group of Companies which provides platform for property investors to gain insights and world-class investment strategies. He is contactable [email protected]

Ed Cheong

Opinion A mixed bag of news for investors in IskandarProperty Investment

During the just completed Annual Singapore-Malaysia Leaders’ Retreat in Singapore on May 4 2015, both countries made a joint statement that

the High Speed Rail project will progress albeit with a later implementation date past 2020 as originally scheduled.

Other announcements concerned

minor developments including increasing ferry services between the current eastern points of Singapore and Johor.

A few days later, Singapore also announced that the Jurong Country Club located in the western part of the island will make way for the High Speed Rail Terminus. Jurong East is selected based on plans to develop it as the second business district in Singapore after the Central Financial District in the heart of the city. Jurong Country Club will vacate the land by 2016.

Later during the current Singapore Parliament Session, it was reported that the number of new private homes in Iskandar Malaysia (IM) will exceed the total number of private homes in Singapore. That sent a cautionary warning of an impending bust in IM’s property market. This news created a shock wave of pessimism in the online community of property investors.

A few days later, we also have news

reports that only certain areas of IM will be opened to foreign investors. This possibility also caused those who have bought property in IM to feel a little jittery on the resale value of their homes.

What a mixed bag of news! As Jim Rohn once quipped, “Learning is the beginning of wealth”, we must watch these developments with an eagle eye.

What I can say to home owners is that they should never lose hope on the vision that IM will be another Klang Valley of Malaysia but neither should speculators be happy that nothing will go wrong. Things that can go wrong do so and bubbles can happen. I foresee that the current lull in the market will persist for a year or two more.

However, as long as the global economy has no near future shocks, we will see increasing prosperity for both countries as closer coupling between Singapore and Johor region materialises.

Whether we will complete the High Speed Rail by 2020 or later, it is not so important although the earlier we have better connection the better it is for all. I have always preferred Nusajaya over other regions in IM. The main reason is that Nusajaya was planned way back before the 1998 Asian Financial Crisis and it has a delayed birth. With the High Speed Rail and the impending rezoning of foreign investible zones, I believe we will see further impetus for progress in Nusajaya.

Jurong East is a big industrial sub city in Singapore. Gerbang Nusajaya can play the complementary base for resource intensive activities. We can expect a close symbiotic development between these two regions.

Therefore, I am optimistic under the dynamic leadership of the Johor Government and strong support from the private sectors of both countries to create more jobs in IM, more and more will choose to live in the IM region with an ever better standard of living.

Property developer UEM Sunrise Bhd expects RM2 billion in sales this year with

the launch of eight new projects.Managing Director and

Chief Executive Officer Anwar Syahrin Abdul Ajib said the target is however lower than last year’s RM2.4 billion.

“The first half of 2015 is likely to see property transactions falling due to the cooling measures, tightening credit and rising costs, however it is expected to regain momentum in the second half,” he said.

“UEM Sunrise will continue to provide affordable houses as

well as exclusive and premium ones,” he added.

The company will also acquire more land over the next three to four years with an annual allocation of RM500 million.

“We want to introduce more unique products that give high value to our customers,” he

added.One of UEM Sunrise’s

catalyst developments is in Puteri Harbour, Nusajaya in Johor.

“But more so, we would benefit from the high speed rail project which will pass through Nusajaya before Tuas,” said Anwar.

Of the new projects to

be launched this year, four are located in the central region (Residensi Sefina Mont Kiara, Artisan Hills, Phase 1 of Serene Heights and Solaris 3), three in the southern region (Estuari, Signature Residence and Denai Nusantara), and one in Australia (Conservatory).

RM2 billion in sales this year for UEM Sunrise

the iskandarian june 2015 issue

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