Looks like everything is set for a great launch!
Showing posts with label living in JB. Show all posts
Showing posts with label living in JB. Show all posts
Thursday, August 16, 2012
Sunday, September 11, 2011
Iskandar Malaysia making progress
Living in JB has its ups and downs. Today, it is an up. Why? Well, read the report for yourself and bask in glorious confidence if you've already a foothold in JB properties. It is always to receive good news from independent sources. Or so, saiths I.
A special report by HwangDBS Vickers Research, On Saturday 10 September 2011, 23:45 SGT
http://sg.finance.yahoo.com
During our recent site visit to Iskandar Malaysia, we drove around the project sites for EduCity, Medini, SiLC, Horizon Hills, Setia Eco-Gardens, and Johor Premium Outlet, and made stops at the state administrative centre in Kota Iskandar, Columbia Hospital, and Puteri Harbour sales gallery. We also met up with representatives from the Iskandar Regional Development Authority (IRDA), Iskandar Investment Bhd (IIB), UEM Land Bhd, S P Setia Bhd and Eastern & Oriental Bhd (E&O).
The feedback from fund managers was encouraging — 53% and 41% of our survey respondents were positive or neutral on Nusajaya’s development progress. Respondents were generally satisfied with the progress on infrastructure, security, foreign and private investments, government policies, awareness and marketing, and property prices. Fund managers rated infrastructure, security, and government policies as the top three factors required for Iskandar to be a success.
On security, IRDA highlighted that a Safety and Security Blueprint is in place and the crime index had fallen by 21% and street crime by 47% compared with last year. Police manpower has been increased from 6,172 in 2007 to 9,115, and Iskandar now has five police districts compared with only three previously. An additional 273 mobile police vehicles and 12 mobile police stations have been deployed as tactical command centres in Iskandar’s five flagship zones — Johor Bahru City Centre, Nusajaya, Western Gate Development, Eastern Gate Development and Senai-Skudai).
We are encouraged that 64% of our survey respondents are keen to invest in Iskandar-related shares and properties within the next two years, of which 72% are interested in landed properties. Tourism should be a low hanging fruit as 67% of respondents would consider Iskandar as a weekend getaway, while 72% would likely visit the theme parks. The Johor Premium Outlet — the first Premium Outlet in Southeast Asia — should also be well-received based on our 89% positive response.
Some 49% of the fund managers are also interested in patronising Iskandar’s healthcare facilities. This concurs with our observation of the activity level at Columbia Hospital, which is positioned as a suburban/community hospital (41 beds). Since its launch in July 2010, Columbia Hospital has treated over 8,000 patients, of which 30% to 40% were foreigners. Occupancy rate is 80% to 90% and average length of stay is two days. This can be attributed to the scarcity of reputable private hospitals in Johor and relatively cheaper medical fees compared with Singapore (the single-bed room rate is only RM180 against S$498 (RM1,230) at Gleneagles Singapore). EduCity, however, needs more promotion (only 11% of respondents would consider sending their children there).
2012 tipping point on track
According to IRDA, committed investments in Iskandar Malaysia have reached RM76 billion as at 1H11 (about 59% from foreign investors), of which 40% or RM30 billion has been realised. Most of the infrastructure and catalyst developments in Iskandar are on track for completion from 2012 onwards, which should help to draw in critical mass to Nusajaya.
Under the Ninth Malaysia Plan, RM6.3 billion has been allocated to upgrade existing road infrastructure and build new roads to improve connectivity (four out of six road projects are in various stages of progress). The Coastal Highway, which will cut travelling time from Nusajaya to Johor Bahru by half to 20 minutes, looks on track for completion by December this year. Newcastle University (first in EduCity) is expected to commence enrolment by October this year, although hostels are still under construction and the food courts and retail facilities seem rather sparse for now.
Although construction of Legoland seems to be in the initial stages, we were assured that its September 2012 launch date is still achievable as fabrication of rides will be done concurrently offsite. We also noted several large projects slated for completion in 2012 (some of which have been overshadowed by other higher profile projects), as shown in Table 1.
Medini: Central business district of Nusajaya
IIB provided some insights on development plans for the 902ha Medini, which was acquired by a Middle East consortium comprising Kuwait Finance House, Abu Dhabi’s Mubadala Development Co and Saraya Group in August 2007 for RM4.1 billion (RM43 psf). Medini is divided into four components for mixed development: Medini North, Business, Central and South. To date, about RM4 billion has been committed and spent on infrastructure and building works.
There are robust development activities at Medini North to leverage on the September 2012 opening of Legoland, which is targeting one million visitors per year. Various listed construction and property players are keen to get a piece of the action:
• WCT Bhd is scheduled to launch its first phase (300 condo units) 1Medini residential project in Medini North this month at US$150 (RM450) psf (GDV RM200 million), with targeted completion by 2013. WCT will also be developing a RM688 million commercial project in the Medini Business District, just minutes away from Medini North;
• UEM Land Bhd is developing Lifestyle Retail Mall and Residences@Medini North, which will be directly connected to Legoland. Phase 1A, comprising 200,000 sq ft gross floor area, has been targeted for completion by September 2012, although the entire development of two million sq ft GFA will be spread over eight years;
• Bina Puri Holdings Bhd is scheduled to complete a RM500 million SOHO and retail development (Medini Square) at Medini North by 2013. The first phase of 1.05 million sq ft GFA is expected to be completed in 2012; and
• Pantai Holdings Bhd plans to build a 300-bed private hospital, Gleneagles Medini Hospital, on a 6ha site at Medini North, scheduled for completion in 2014.
For Medini Central, E&O will jointly develop 85ha at the iconic wellness township in Medini Central with Pulau Indah Ventures (Temasek-Khazanah joint venture). E&O has been appointed the project manager and sales and marketing consultant for the RM3 billion-GDV mixed development.
The project should do well given:
• its strategic location near the Second Link and public golf course, and Medini is the only area within Iskandar with special incentives (10-year tax exemption, no bumiputera quota, freedom to source capital and labour globally);
• Temasek’s stamp of approval which should see strong interest from Singapore buyers; and
• E&O’s strong execution track record (master plan likely to be similar to its flagship Seri Tanjung Pinang Phase 1).
Rising interest in Johor property
We saw an increase in landbank transactions at Iskandar recently, with Mah Sing Group Bhd and Dijaya Corp Bhd acquiring large parcels over the past five months. Nusajaya’s land price has continued to set new benchmarks, surpassing other areas in Johor, including Johor Bahru city centre. For example, Puteri Harbour was transacted at RM220 psf in June 2011 against Johor Bahru’s RM117 psf in August. Recent transactions at SiLC industrial land had touched RM35 psf, with UEMLand targeting RM60 psf in the longer-term as Senai Industrial Park is already asking for RM45 to RM60 psf. We understand SiLC buyers are required to construct their factories within two years of purchase, failing which UEMLand has the right to buy back the land at 90% of the purchase price.
Property launches are expected to pick up at Nusajaya and set new price benchmarks. UEMLand will be launching Imperia Condo at Puteri Harbour (700 to 1, 200 sq ft built-ups) soon at RM600 to RM700 psf, while WCT is aiming to launch 1Medini at RM450 psf. These prices are much higher than UEMLand’s Ujung apartments that were launched in 4Q09 at RM300 psf. The latest launches of link and semi-detached houses at Nusajaya are already touching RM800,000 and RM1.2 million per unit, almost comparable to property prices in some areas within the Klang Valley. Based on KGV Lambert Smith Hampton’s survey (highlighted in The Edge weekly), average prices of 2-storey terraced houses and semi-d/cluster houses at Nusajaya have appreciated by 21% and 48% since the start of 2009.
S P Setia remains market leader in Johor
SP Setia has seen consistent sales at its Johor projects, growing at a five-year compound annual growth rate of 17%. Sales for 9MFY11of RM798 million have surpassed FY10’s sales of RM607 million. Johor currently accounts for about 35% of S P Setia’s total sales (was about 70% prior to launch of Setia Alam and Setia Eco-Park in 2004). Johor will continue to feature prominently in S P Setia’s plans after the recent acquisition of two large parcels near Tebrau — Setia Eco Cascadia (105ha @ RM15 psf) and Setia Business Park 2 (106ha @ RM11 psf) for a combined RM295 million. S P Setia now has 608ha of land in Johor with RM8 billion potential GDV.
About six months ago, S P Setia ventured into industrial properties — a low hanging fruit given its established presence in Johor since 1997 and rising private/foreign investments at Iskandar. Setia Business Park (adjacent to Setia Eco Gardens) is well sought after with Phase 1 and 2 fully sold (80% to 90% locals). Phase 1 is completed and we will see Singapore-based companies such as Old Chang Kee, SYY Pte Ltd, Huiji and Windwell move in. S P Setia has also started to launch apartments in Johor to tap into the affordable homes segment, for example, Sky Gardens Residences at Setia Tropika (RM390 psf, 56% sold) and Sky Loft at Bukit Indah (RM462 psf, 75% sold).
Genting Plantations’ Johor Premium Outlet (JPO)
JPO, a 50:50 joint venture between Genting Plantations and US-listed Simon Property Group, is strategically located at the intersection of the North-South Highway and Second-link Expressway, and will span 18ha with approximately 175,000 gross lettable area.
It will be the first Premium Outlet in Southeast Asia, boasting 80 to 90 outlet stores with an average size of 1,800 sq ft per lot. There will be 3,000 parking bays and 30 bus bays to cater for four million visitors per year (first year target). Located between Resorts World Genting in Genting Highlands (3.5 hours drive) and Resorts World Sentosa in Singapore (one hour drive), JPO is likely to be packaged as part of the Genting Group’s travel packages/bus programme to attract more visitors to the shopping haven.
With the official launch (Nov 11, 2011) just four months away and its superstructure yet to be completed, we expect JPO to open in stages.
This article appeared in The Edge Financial Daily, September 8, 2011.
A special report by HwangDBS Vickers Research, On Saturday 10 September 2011, 23:45 SGT
http://sg.finance.yahoo.com
During our recent site visit to Iskandar Malaysia, we drove around the project sites for EduCity, Medini, SiLC, Horizon Hills, Setia Eco-Gardens, and Johor Premium Outlet, and made stops at the state administrative centre in Kota Iskandar, Columbia Hospital, and Puteri Harbour sales gallery. We also met up with representatives from the Iskandar Regional Development Authority (IRDA), Iskandar Investment Bhd (IIB), UEM Land Bhd, S P Setia Bhd and Eastern & Oriental Bhd (E&O).
The feedback from fund managers was encouraging — 53% and 41% of our survey respondents were positive or neutral on Nusajaya’s development progress. Respondents were generally satisfied with the progress on infrastructure, security, foreign and private investments, government policies, awareness and marketing, and property prices. Fund managers rated infrastructure, security, and government policies as the top three factors required for Iskandar to be a success.
On security, IRDA highlighted that a Safety and Security Blueprint is in place and the crime index had fallen by 21% and street crime by 47% compared with last year. Police manpower has been increased from 6,172 in 2007 to 9,115, and Iskandar now has five police districts compared with only three previously. An additional 273 mobile police vehicles and 12 mobile police stations have been deployed as tactical command centres in Iskandar’s five flagship zones — Johor Bahru City Centre, Nusajaya, Western Gate Development, Eastern Gate Development and Senai-Skudai).
We are encouraged that 64% of our survey respondents are keen to invest in Iskandar-related shares and properties within the next two years, of which 72% are interested in landed properties. Tourism should be a low hanging fruit as 67% of respondents would consider Iskandar as a weekend getaway, while 72% would likely visit the theme parks. The Johor Premium Outlet — the first Premium Outlet in Southeast Asia — should also be well-received based on our 89% positive response.
Some 49% of the fund managers are also interested in patronising Iskandar’s healthcare facilities. This concurs with our observation of the activity level at Columbia Hospital, which is positioned as a suburban/community hospital (41 beds). Since its launch in July 2010, Columbia Hospital has treated over 8,000 patients, of which 30% to 40% were foreigners. Occupancy rate is 80% to 90% and average length of stay is two days. This can be attributed to the scarcity of reputable private hospitals in Johor and relatively cheaper medical fees compared with Singapore (the single-bed room rate is only RM180 against S$498 (RM1,230) at Gleneagles Singapore). EduCity, however, needs more promotion (only 11% of respondents would consider sending their children there).
2012 tipping point on track
According to IRDA, committed investments in Iskandar Malaysia have reached RM76 billion as at 1H11 (about 59% from foreign investors), of which 40% or RM30 billion has been realised. Most of the infrastructure and catalyst developments in Iskandar are on track for completion from 2012 onwards, which should help to draw in critical mass to Nusajaya.
Under the Ninth Malaysia Plan, RM6.3 billion has been allocated to upgrade existing road infrastructure and build new roads to improve connectivity (four out of six road projects are in various stages of progress). The Coastal Highway, which will cut travelling time from Nusajaya to Johor Bahru by half to 20 minutes, looks on track for completion by December this year. Newcastle University (first in EduCity) is expected to commence enrolment by October this year, although hostels are still under construction and the food courts and retail facilities seem rather sparse for now.
Although construction of Legoland seems to be in the initial stages, we were assured that its September 2012 launch date is still achievable as fabrication of rides will be done concurrently offsite. We also noted several large projects slated for completion in 2012 (some of which have been overshadowed by other higher profile projects), as shown in Table 1.
Medini: Central business district of Nusajaya
IIB provided some insights on development plans for the 902ha Medini, which was acquired by a Middle East consortium comprising Kuwait Finance House, Abu Dhabi’s Mubadala Development Co and Saraya Group in August 2007 for RM4.1 billion (RM43 psf). Medini is divided into four components for mixed development: Medini North, Business, Central and South. To date, about RM4 billion has been committed and spent on infrastructure and building works.
There are robust development activities at Medini North to leverage on the September 2012 opening of Legoland, which is targeting one million visitors per year. Various listed construction and property players are keen to get a piece of the action:
• WCT Bhd is scheduled to launch its first phase (300 condo units) 1Medini residential project in Medini North this month at US$150 (RM450) psf (GDV RM200 million), with targeted completion by 2013. WCT will also be developing a RM688 million commercial project in the Medini Business District, just minutes away from Medini North;
• UEM Land Bhd is developing Lifestyle Retail Mall and Residences@Medini North, which will be directly connected to Legoland. Phase 1A, comprising 200,000 sq ft gross floor area, has been targeted for completion by September 2012, although the entire development of two million sq ft GFA will be spread over eight years;
• Bina Puri Holdings Bhd is scheduled to complete a RM500 million SOHO and retail development (Medini Square) at Medini North by 2013. The first phase of 1.05 million sq ft GFA is expected to be completed in 2012; and
• Pantai Holdings Bhd plans to build a 300-bed private hospital, Gleneagles Medini Hospital, on a 6ha site at Medini North, scheduled for completion in 2014.
For Medini Central, E&O will jointly develop 85ha at the iconic wellness township in Medini Central with Pulau Indah Ventures (Temasek-Khazanah joint venture). E&O has been appointed the project manager and sales and marketing consultant for the RM3 billion-GDV mixed development.
The project should do well given:
• its strategic location near the Second Link and public golf course, and Medini is the only area within Iskandar with special incentives (10-year tax exemption, no bumiputera quota, freedom to source capital and labour globally);
• Temasek’s stamp of approval which should see strong interest from Singapore buyers; and
• E&O’s strong execution track record (master plan likely to be similar to its flagship Seri Tanjung Pinang Phase 1).
Rising interest in Johor property
We saw an increase in landbank transactions at Iskandar recently, with Mah Sing Group Bhd and Dijaya Corp Bhd acquiring large parcels over the past five months. Nusajaya’s land price has continued to set new benchmarks, surpassing other areas in Johor, including Johor Bahru city centre. For example, Puteri Harbour was transacted at RM220 psf in June 2011 against Johor Bahru’s RM117 psf in August. Recent transactions at SiLC industrial land had touched RM35 psf, with UEMLand targeting RM60 psf in the longer-term as Senai Industrial Park is already asking for RM45 to RM60 psf. We understand SiLC buyers are required to construct their factories within two years of purchase, failing which UEMLand has the right to buy back the land at 90% of the purchase price.
Property launches are expected to pick up at Nusajaya and set new price benchmarks. UEMLand will be launching Imperia Condo at Puteri Harbour (700 to 1, 200 sq ft built-ups) soon at RM600 to RM700 psf, while WCT is aiming to launch 1Medini at RM450 psf. These prices are much higher than UEMLand’s Ujung apartments that were launched in 4Q09 at RM300 psf. The latest launches of link and semi-detached houses at Nusajaya are already touching RM800,000 and RM1.2 million per unit, almost comparable to property prices in some areas within the Klang Valley. Based on KGV Lambert Smith Hampton’s survey (highlighted in The Edge weekly), average prices of 2-storey terraced houses and semi-d/cluster houses at Nusajaya have appreciated by 21% and 48% since the start of 2009.
S P Setia remains market leader in Johor
SP Setia has seen consistent sales at its Johor projects, growing at a five-year compound annual growth rate of 17%. Sales for 9MFY11of RM798 million have surpassed FY10’s sales of RM607 million. Johor currently accounts for about 35% of S P Setia’s total sales (was about 70% prior to launch of Setia Alam and Setia Eco-Park in 2004). Johor will continue to feature prominently in S P Setia’s plans after the recent acquisition of two large parcels near Tebrau — Setia Eco Cascadia (105ha @ RM15 psf) and Setia Business Park 2 (106ha @ RM11 psf) for a combined RM295 million. S P Setia now has 608ha of land in Johor with RM8 billion potential GDV.
About six months ago, S P Setia ventured into industrial properties — a low hanging fruit given its established presence in Johor since 1997 and rising private/foreign investments at Iskandar. Setia Business Park (adjacent to Setia Eco Gardens) is well sought after with Phase 1 and 2 fully sold (80% to 90% locals). Phase 1 is completed and we will see Singapore-based companies such as Old Chang Kee, SYY Pte Ltd, Huiji and Windwell move in. S P Setia has also started to launch apartments in Johor to tap into the affordable homes segment, for example, Sky Gardens Residences at Setia Tropika (RM390 psf, 56% sold) and Sky Loft at Bukit Indah (RM462 psf, 75% sold).
Genting Plantations’ Johor Premium Outlet (JPO)
JPO, a 50:50 joint venture between Genting Plantations and US-listed Simon Property Group, is strategically located at the intersection of the North-South Highway and Second-link Expressway, and will span 18ha with approximately 175,000 gross lettable area.
It will be the first Premium Outlet in Southeast Asia, boasting 80 to 90 outlet stores with an average size of 1,800 sq ft per lot. There will be 3,000 parking bays and 30 bus bays to cater for four million visitors per year (first year target). Located between Resorts World Genting in Genting Highlands (3.5 hours drive) and Resorts World Sentosa in Singapore (one hour drive), JPO is likely to be packaged as part of the Genting Group’s travel packages/bus programme to attract more visitors to the shopping haven.
With the official launch (Nov 11, 2011) just four months away and its superstructure yet to be completed, we expect JPO to open in stages.
This article appeared in The Edge Financial Daily, September 8, 2011.
Tuesday, September 6, 2011
Concession for Malaysian Cars to be driven into Singapore
Copied from a forum - for those who own Msia registered cars intending to drive in Sg.
"In recognition of the needs of bona fide Singaporeans or Singapore PRs working and residing in Malaysia to make home visits to Singapore, we could consider you for the special concession scheme. Under the scheme, all approved applicants are allowed to drive their Malaysia-registered cars into Singapore for all weekends, all Singapore public holidays and another 28 weekdays in a calendar year. Approval will be given on a case-by-case basis with consideration to the following:
The applicant (his spouse or his company) is the registered owner of the vehicle. If the vehicle is rented/leased by his company, he has to submit an official letter from the company stating the period the vehicle is leased for and that the vehicle is provided solely for his use;
He is physically working and residing in Malaysia;
He is required to apply to Land Transport Authority for approval when his earlier approval letter (if any) has expired (i.e. upon expiry of his vehicle's insurance/road tax or 6 months, whichever is earlier);
His vehicle has a valid Malaysia road tax disc and insurance coverage for the period it is used in Singapore; and
He must keep, in each of his visit, his vehicle outside Singapore before the vehicle entry permit grace expiry of 14 days from the date of the last entry.
(Note: Unless further extension is granted, the vehicle entry permit valid for 14 days is issued upon each entry and encoded in its Autopass Card electronically at land checkpoint.)
If you wish to apply for the scheme, please fax your request and the following documents to us at (02)-65535329 or (02)-65535802 (from Malaysia) or by email to rp@lta.gov.sg:
A photocopy of your Singapore identity card (front and reverse sides);
A photocopy of your passport with the relevant page of your employment pass endorsed by Malaysian Immigration or Malaysian identity card (if any);
A photocopy of your company's letter confirming that you are currently working and residing in Malaysia;
A photocopy of your vehicle's valid registration card (front and reverse sides) with latest valid road tax endorsement by Road Transport Department, Malaysia;
A photocopy of your vehicle's valid insurance certificate;
If the vehicle in your application is registered under your company's name (or is rented/leased by your company), we would also require an photocopy of your employer's letter stating the period the vehicle is leased for and that the vehicle is given solely for your use and that only you can drive the vehicle; and
A photocopy of your marriage certificate (if you are applying with your spouse's vehicle).
Please also provide us your residential address in Malaysia and your residential address during your intending visit in Singapore and indicate your intended date(s) of visit (if available) to Singapore.
Important Note
Your application must reach us at least 5 working days (excluding Saturdays, Sundays and public holidays) before your intended visit to Singapore to allow us to process your application. Please note that we may not be able to process your application on time if your submission is incomplete or late.
Electronic Road Pricing and Vehicle Entry Permit Fees and toll charges
Please refer to our website at http://www.lta.gov.sg =>'Motoring' =>'Driving Into and Out Singapore' =>`West-Malaysian Registered Vehicles' =>'Vehicle Entry Permit/Tolls' and `Autopass card matters' for more details on payment of vehicle entry permit (VEP) fee, electronic road pricing (ERP) fee and toll charges.
Driving Licence to drive in Singapore
You may also wish to check on the type of driving licence required to drive in Singapore for Singapore citizen or Singapore permanent resident from the following Singapore Traffic Police's portal:
http://driving-in-singapore.spf.gov....ence_legal.htm
Please contact our Customer Service Hotline at 1800-CALL LTA (1800-2255582) or email us at rp@lta.gov.sg or vep_feedback@lta.gov.sg if you need clarification.
We thank you for writing to us."
"In recognition of the needs of bona fide Singaporeans or Singapore PRs working and residing in Malaysia to make home visits to Singapore, we could consider you for the special concession scheme. Under the scheme, all approved applicants are allowed to drive their Malaysia-registered cars into Singapore for all weekends, all Singapore public holidays and another 28 weekdays in a calendar year. Approval will be given on a case-by-case basis with consideration to the following:
The applicant (his spouse or his company) is the registered owner of the vehicle. If the vehicle is rented/leased by his company, he has to submit an official letter from the company stating the period the vehicle is leased for and that the vehicle is provided solely for his use;
He is physically working and residing in Malaysia;
He is required to apply to Land Transport Authority for approval when his earlier approval letter (if any) has expired (i.e. upon expiry of his vehicle's insurance/road tax or 6 months, whichever is earlier);
His vehicle has a valid Malaysia road tax disc and insurance coverage for the period it is used in Singapore; and
He must keep, in each of his visit, his vehicle outside Singapore before the vehicle entry permit grace expiry of 14 days from the date of the last entry.
(Note: Unless further extension is granted, the vehicle entry permit valid for 14 days is issued upon each entry and encoded in its Autopass Card electronically at land checkpoint.)
If you wish to apply for the scheme, please fax your request and the following documents to us at (02)-65535329 or (02)-65535802 (from Malaysia) or by email to rp@lta.gov.sg:
A photocopy of your Singapore identity card (front and reverse sides);
A photocopy of your passport with the relevant page of your employment pass endorsed by Malaysian Immigration or Malaysian identity card (if any);
A photocopy of your company's letter confirming that you are currently working and residing in Malaysia;
A photocopy of your vehicle's valid registration card (front and reverse sides) with latest valid road tax endorsement by Road Transport Department, Malaysia;
A photocopy of your vehicle's valid insurance certificate;
If the vehicle in your application is registered under your company's name (or is rented/leased by your company), we would also require an photocopy of your employer's letter stating the period the vehicle is leased for and that the vehicle is given solely for your use and that only you can drive the vehicle; and
A photocopy of your marriage certificate (if you are applying with your spouse's vehicle).
Please also provide us your residential address in Malaysia and your residential address during your intending visit in Singapore and indicate your intended date(s) of visit (if available) to Singapore.
Important Note
Your application must reach us at least 5 working days (excluding Saturdays, Sundays and public holidays) before your intended visit to Singapore to allow us to process your application. Please note that we may not be able to process your application on time if your submission is incomplete or late.
Electronic Road Pricing and Vehicle Entry Permit Fees and toll charges
Please refer to our website at http://www.lta.gov.sg =>'Motoring' =>'Driving Into and Out Singapore' =>`West-Malaysian Registered Vehicles' =>'Vehicle Entry Permit/Tolls' and `Autopass card matters' for more details on payment of vehicle entry permit (VEP) fee, electronic road pricing (ERP) fee and toll charges.
Driving Licence to drive in Singapore
You may also wish to check on the type of driving licence required to drive in Singapore for Singapore citizen or Singapore permanent resident from the following Singapore Traffic Police's portal:
http://driving-in-singapore.spf.gov....ence_legal.htm
Please contact our Customer Service Hotline at 1800-CALL LTA (1800-2255582) or email us at rp@lta.gov.sg or vep_feedback@lta.gov.sg if you need clarification.
We thank you for writing to us."
Monday, August 22, 2011
Johor Sales!!!!
Today, stumbled upon this gem when I deviated from my usual searches on Nusajaya. I guess this is probably a convenient way to check out the latest deals at the comfort of your home or mobile.
Do share your lobangs (opportunities) if you have any. Everyday is GJBS! (I think most Singaporeans will know what this means...lol!)
Saturday, August 20, 2011
UMobile Introduces 42mbps Network Services In Johor Bahru
This is good news. I believe by the time I move into HH 2 years from now, the infrastructure would be ready for my enjoyment. Things are looking up by now. :)
http://www.bernama.com.my
Published on 18th August 2011
KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 18 (Bernama) — UMobile Sdn Bhd has expanded its 42-Mbps (megabits per second) coverage in Johor Bahru as part of its expansion plan across the nation.
In a statement today, UMobile said currently the service was mainly available in the city area with other cities in the region set to enjoy it within this year.
Its chief executive officer, Dr Kaizad Heerjee, said for the remainder of the year, the company would continue to grow and expand its 42Mbps offering to other places like Klang Valley, Penang, Seremban and Port Dickson.
“We are making steady progress nationwide with the implementation of our 42Mbps service,” he said.
http://www.u.com.my
Published on 18th August 2911
~ Johor Bahru leads the way as a “42Mbps city” with the fastest internet speed at the lowest rate and largest data volume ~
Kuala Lumpur, 18th August 2011 – U Mobile Sdn Bhd, Malaysia’s most dynamic and innovative telco service provider today announced the availability of its 42Mbps coverage in Johor Bahru, giving internet users within the state the fastest internet speed with the largest volume at the lowest rate available.
Currently there are over two hundred U Mobile sites in Johor Bahru offering fast speed mobile internet which are available in most of the commercial and residential areas, including Taman Molek 1, 2 and 3, Taman Gembira, the Free Trade Zone, Taman Delima, Desa Harmoni, Bukit Kempas, Stulang Laut, Jalan Ibrahim Sultan and many more. Customers of U Mobile in these areas will experience fast internet that are three to five times speedier compared to existing offerings that are currently available in the market.
To enjoy its 42Mbps services, U Mobile is offering a package plan to internet users within the city which include the fastest download speed of up to 42Mbps at an affordable rate starting from RM68 month with the largest data volume of up to 20GB per month. All this comes with a 7-day money-back guarantee for its postpaid customers. Speaking about the expansion, Dr. Kaizad Heerjee, CEO of U Mobile Sdn Bhd said, “We’re making steady progress nationwide with the implementation of our 42Mbps services. In Johor Bahru, we began with only a few selected areas and now I’m proud to say that we have covered most of the city area and are bringing the most cutting edge communication services to the residence in Johor Bahru. As for the rest of the major cities in the region, they will be able to enjoy the 42Mbps coverage within this year.
Our strategic partnership with ZTE as announced earlier this year for a three-pronged development strategy will see consistent and steady upgrades from 42Mpbs to 84Mbps and eventually 100Mbps across Malaysia. We are on track, on target and are progressing well within the planned time frame. I believe that we are leading in this space and will continue to innovate and grow to meet the demands of today’s changing consumer demands,” he added.
For the remainder of the year, U Mobile will continue to grow and expand its 42Mbps offering across the nation including the Klang Valley, Penang, Seremban and Port Dickson while continuing to offer a selection of innovative and exciting offerings with surprising affordability in keeping up with the demand of today’s technology-savvy generation of consumers.
To celebrate the announcement, U Mobile recently held a roadshow in Johor Bahru to launch the availability of its 42Mbps offering within the state. For more information, please visit http://www.u.com.my/
http://www.bernama.com.my
Published on 18th August 2011
KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 18 (Bernama) — UMobile Sdn Bhd has expanded its 42-Mbps (megabits per second) coverage in Johor Bahru as part of its expansion plan across the nation.
In a statement today, UMobile said currently the service was mainly available in the city area with other cities in the region set to enjoy it within this year.
Its chief executive officer, Dr Kaizad Heerjee, said for the remainder of the year, the company would continue to grow and expand its 42Mbps offering to other places like Klang Valley, Penang, Seremban and Port Dickson.
“We are making steady progress nationwide with the implementation of our 42Mbps service,” he said.
http://www.u.com.my
Published on 18th August 2911
~ Johor Bahru leads the way as a “42Mbps city” with the fastest internet speed at the lowest rate and largest data volume ~
Kuala Lumpur, 18th August 2011 – U Mobile Sdn Bhd, Malaysia’s most dynamic and innovative telco service provider today announced the availability of its 42Mbps coverage in Johor Bahru, giving internet users within the state the fastest internet speed with the largest volume at the lowest rate available.
Currently there are over two hundred U Mobile sites in Johor Bahru offering fast speed mobile internet which are available in most of the commercial and residential areas, including Taman Molek 1, 2 and 3, Taman Gembira, the Free Trade Zone, Taman Delima, Desa Harmoni, Bukit Kempas, Stulang Laut, Jalan Ibrahim Sultan and many more. Customers of U Mobile in these areas will experience fast internet that are three to five times speedier compared to existing offerings that are currently available in the market.
To enjoy its 42Mbps services, U Mobile is offering a package plan to internet users within the city which include the fastest download speed of up to 42Mbps at an affordable rate starting from RM68 month with the largest data volume of up to 20GB per month. All this comes with a 7-day money-back guarantee for its postpaid customers. Speaking about the expansion, Dr. Kaizad Heerjee, CEO of U Mobile Sdn Bhd said, “We’re making steady progress nationwide with the implementation of our 42Mbps services. In Johor Bahru, we began with only a few selected areas and now I’m proud to say that we have covered most of the city area and are bringing the most cutting edge communication services to the residence in Johor Bahru. As for the rest of the major cities in the region, they will be able to enjoy the 42Mbps coverage within this year.
Our strategic partnership with ZTE as announced earlier this year for a three-pronged development strategy will see consistent and steady upgrades from 42Mpbs to 84Mbps and eventually 100Mbps across Malaysia. We are on track, on target and are progressing well within the planned time frame. I believe that we are leading in this space and will continue to innovate and grow to meet the demands of today’s changing consumer demands,” he added.
For the remainder of the year, U Mobile will continue to grow and expand its 42Mbps offering across the nation including the Klang Valley, Penang, Seremban and Port Dickson while continuing to offer a selection of innovative and exciting offerings with surprising affordability in keeping up with the demand of today’s technology-savvy generation of consumers.
To celebrate the announcement, U Mobile recently held a roadshow in Johor Bahru to launch the availability of its 42Mbps offering within the state. For more information, please visit http://www.u.com.my/
Sunday, July 24, 2011
Getting acquainted with JB property developments
In preparation for living in JB, some research must be done...
Yesterday, I visited a few developments for the first time. Started with Nusa Idaman, dropped by HH to chat with the sales people, went over to East Ledang and did a final stop at Setia Tropika. Of course, we recuperated at Old Town Coffee after the Saturday morning over Link 2. This was what I had:
Alright, on with my journey...
Nusa Idaman: Really liked their Semi-Ds. Unfortunately, all sold out. Told sales to keep me updated about the upcoming cluster launch. This development is value for money.
Horizon Hills: They have just launched a row of Super-links (for the unfamiliar, a.k.a. super-sized terrace houses). Prices going for RM 8XXk for the intermediate and slightly more than 1mil for the corner unit. Although these super-links are larger in build-up than my cluster semi-d, I'll still go for the cluster because of the view. Well, that remains to be seen. :) Can't wait to collect the key in 2 years time...
East Ledang: I was really impressed with the security of EL. They really took time to scrutinise each and every visitor before permitting them entry. It took all of 8min before I finally managed to speak to the guard who gave me the directions to the sales office. Haha. I only found out what I knew all along after speaking to the sales person---everything was sold out! Well, except for the Luxury Pool Villas which are bungalows. Even then, there were only 3 units left. Will sit this one out. :)
It was a day that I felt was very well spent. First and foremost, it was quality time spent with mom. The bonuses were that I got to get a better overview of the properties and developments in Johor, adjusted my sense of safety and expectations in JB, got to drive my car for almost the whole day (210km) and came home knowing that I had made the right decision getting HH as my future home. :)
Sales persons who served me:
NI - Lee Irene (+6014-315-1618)
HH - Premila Velu (+6016-742-2291)
EL - Spiritu Santha (+6016-791-4688)
ST - Zanareyah Salim (+6012-742-3312)
Yesterday, I visited a few developments for the first time. Started with Nusa Idaman, dropped by HH to chat with the sales people, went over to East Ledang and did a final stop at Setia Tropika. Of course, we recuperated at Old Town Coffee after the Saturday morning over Link 2. This was what I had:
Ipoh Chicken Horfun
Alright, on with my journey...
Nusa Idaman: Really liked their Semi-Ds. Unfortunately, all sold out. Told sales to keep me updated about the upcoming cluster launch. This development is value for money.
Horizon Hills: They have just launched a row of Super-links (for the unfamiliar, a.k.a. super-sized terrace houses). Prices going for RM 8XXk for the intermediate and slightly more than 1mil for the corner unit. Although these super-links are larger in build-up than my cluster semi-d, I'll still go for the cluster because of the view. Well, that remains to be seen. :) Can't wait to collect the key in 2 years time...
East Ledang: I was really impressed with the security of EL. They really took time to scrutinise each and every visitor before permitting them entry. It took all of 8min before I finally managed to speak to the guard who gave me the directions to the sales office. Haha. I only found out what I knew all along after speaking to the sales person---everything was sold out! Well, except for the Luxury Pool Villas which are bungalows. Even then, there were only 3 units left. Will sit this one out. :)
I will get one of these for my HH cluster home.
KFC: Mom and I were famished by 4.30pm. We took a much-needed break at the new KFC @ Setia Tropika Connection. There were Macs, Starbucks, Pizzahut as well as a Maybank branch as far as I had noticed. Really convenient place.
Setia Tropika: I was really impressed with their sales office. Very professionally done, felt like I was visiting the typical car showrooms back in Singapore. Anyway, this development was one of the few that really interested me as I did my research online mainly because of the low prices and interesting concepts such as the garage houses being offered (1 more international unit left). Admittedly, I rather liked the of 2 types Cluster homes offered. The Bridge (2.5 storeys) was going for RM 932,500 while The Louvre (2 storeys) was being snapped up at RM100k less. I was told that Singaporeans made up the majority of new home owners here. The figure? 60%. Visited the show houses and these images resulted:
Sales persons who served me:
NI - Lee Irene (+6014-315-1618)
HH - Premila Velu (+6016-742-2291)
EL - Spiritu Santha (+6016-791-4688)
ST - Zanareyah Salim (+6012-742-3312)
Wednesday, July 13, 2011
I booked my first property @ Horizon Hills
Living in JB - Today, I purchased by very first landed freehold property. I left my cheque with the developer and obtained my option to purchase.
Some basic information:
Image edited to remove confidential information.
One week was all it took for me to make a decision? Well, let's just say that I had been scouring the internet for information about buying a home in JB from at least a week before the 5th. That makes it a total of 2 weeks of intensive reading and research. Sufficient enough for me, I guess. :)
What did I buy? The most recent launch would be The Hills Precinct. There are 3 products offered in this precinct---superlink/terrace, cluster semi-D and Bungalows. I decided to take the plunge with...
I got the intermediate-cluster (represented on the right) with a south-west facing, hence I'd get the morning sun. I would have liked the corner-cluster unit so much more, if it wasn't already taken. My neighbour is a non-native Singaporean, btw. Shall not reveal his roots in my blog. :)
Yup. I took the plunge. (note to self again)
Some basic information:
- land: 2400sf
- build-up: 2887sf
- RM$3XXpsf
- TOP: estimated end 2013
- 2 years defects warranty
- lifetime clubhouse membership (50 years)
- legal fees absorbed by developer
Wednesday, July 6, 2011
Horizon Hills
Taken from http://www.horizonhills.com.my/
Went down to view Horizon Hills on 5th July 2011 after reading so much about it from a local forum about living in JB. Upon entering the development, one can aptly describe the drive in as breath-taking. I could not help but to slow my vehicle to a crawl (it's hard to do so, if you know what I am driving) as I stretched my neck to peer out of my side windows. What greeted me were rows of landed properties I could only habour a guess that they were from the Gateway Precinct. As I continued the drive in, I could only feel lightness as I approached the first roundabout. The Golf Precinct found me on both sides. It was a moment of epiphany. I understood why this was such a popular development!
In the next minutes, I begun to realise I wasn't alone. There were two other vehicles advancing at a very slow pace, and my assumption was that they had bouts of breathlessness, very much like the ailment I had very suddenly assumed. Very soon, I arrived at the Club House. However, if you made your trip there, you would realise too that it will be the designer golf course that would greet you first.
Images taken from my iPhone 4.
Of course, I went straight to the sales office to find out more about HH. I'll skip the details, but suffice to say, those of you who are interested should make your way down to have a friendly and informative chit chat with the sales team at the Clubhouse.
Before I left, I decided to try a western delight offered by the Clubhouse restaurant. I really liked the Fillet of Garoupa with lemon butter sauce shown below. Just RM$32 for this and a glass of fresh starfruit juice!
On 5th of July, I learnt to spell "love" very differently.
I spelt it H-O-R-I-Z-O-N-H-I-L-L-S.
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