Awesome Johor Bahru! 3 [Archive] - Page 4

benz

August 6th, 2009, 02:43 AM

Construction Work On Rm2.7 Bln Lido Boulevard Begins In September

JOHOR BAHARU, Aug 5 (Bernama) -- Construction work on the RM2.7 billion Lido Boulevard development project along the Johor Straits is expected to start in September after obtaining the approval for the Environment Impact Assessment (EIA) Report.

Johor Menteri Besar Datuk Abdul Ghani Othman said construction of the real estate development project by Central Malaysian Properties Sdn Bhd (CMP) would begin with land reclamation works.

"The project, when fully completed in 2016, will become a landmark for Johor Baharu city especially along the coast of the Johor Straits," he said at a ceremony to hand over a cheque for RM750,000 to the Southern Region Fishermen's Association, here today.

The Fishermen's Association is the trustee for 300 fishermen from Kampung Teluk Serdang, Kampung Sungai Danga, Kampung Sungai Melayu and Kampung Skudai Kini located along the Johor Straits.

Meanwhile, CMP managing director Datuk Chan Tien Ghee said, the company would ensure the construction of the Lido Boulevard would not affect the livelihoods of coastal villagers or harm the marine environment along Lido beach.

According to him, about 6.3 million cubic meter of sand sourced from Teluk Ramunia located on the east coast of Johor will be used for the reclamation works.

The sand would be transported by a dredger anchored at Stulang Laut near the Causeway and pumped to the construction site via a 2 km-long floating and sunken pipeline, said Ghee.

"To facilitate this, CMP has cleared and cleaned two culverts under the Causeway. One will be used to transport the sand, while the other to ensure a continuous flow of water, which is imperative to improve the quality of water at Lido beach," he said.

The development of Lido Boulevard will feature the construction of eight blocks of high-end condominiums, eight blocks of waterfront office suites, a 296-room-hotel-cum-serviced apartment and three-storey shopping complex.

In addition, the project will also have a Snow Park, an Arts and Cultural Centre as well as a 24-acre man-made lagoon for water-based activities, said Ghee.

rizalhakim

August 6th, 2009, 06:53 AM

rizalhakim

August 6th, 2009, 07:21 AM

Johor tarik RM11.7b pelaburan

Oleh HANIZA HASSAN
utusanjohor@utusan.com.my

http://www.utusan.com.my/pix/2009/0806/Utusan_Malaysia/Johor/wj_03.1.jpg
Abdul Ghani Othman menurunkan tandatangan di atas plak sambil diperhatikan Paul Poh (kiri) dan Philip Skitch sempena perasmian Hotel Thistle di Johor Bahru, kelmarin.

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JOHOR BAHRU 5 Ogos - Johor berjaya memperoleh pelaburan bernilai RM11.7 bilion tahun lalu, meningkat 26 peratus berbanding tahun sebelumnya.

Menteri Besar Johor, Datuk Abdul Ghani Othman berkata, antara Januari hingga Mei tahun ini pula, sebanyak 54 buah projek dalam sektor pembuatan yang membabitkan nilai pelaburan berjumlah RM2.4 bilion telah diluluskan di negeri ini.

Beliau berkata, daripada jumlah projek yang diluluskan itu, sebanyak RM1.53 bilion atau 60 peratus adalah membabitkan pelaburan langsung asing (FDI).

''Dalam cabaran mengharungi krisis ekonomi global yang masih lagi tiada penamatnya, Johor tidak menunjukkan sebarang kemerosotan pada jumlah pelaburan sejak dari mula lagi.

''Saya penuh yakin kita akan lebih berdaya saing pada tahun ini dan memperoleh lebih banyak pelaburan yang akan menanam modal di negeri ini," katanya semasa merasmikan pembukaan Hotel Thistle Johor Bahru, di sini semalam.

Turut hadir isterinya, Prof. Datin Paduka Dr. Jamilah Arifin; Speaker Dewan Undangan Negeri, Datuk Mohd. Ali Hassan; Pengurus Besar Thistle Johor Bahru, Philip Skitch dan Pengarah Urusan GuocoLand (M) Berhad, Paul Poh.

Dalam perkembangan lain, Abdul Ghani berkata, jumlah pelancong ke negara ini antara Januari hingga Mei tahun ini mencecah 9.4 juta orang.

Jumlah berkenaan, menurutnya, meningkat 2.6 peratus berbanding tempoh yang sama tahun lalu.

''Namun, kita menjangkakan jumlah berlaku sedikit penurunan ekoran keadaan ekonomi dunia dan penularan wabak virus selesema babi atau Influenza A (H1N1)," ujarnya.

Sementara itu, mengenai pembukaan hotel berkenaan, Paul berkata, Thistle Johor Bahru telah memulakan operasinya pada awal bulan lalu selepas melakukan kerja-kerja menaik taraf sejak Januari dengan kos RM30 juta.

Hotel itu menyediakan pusat kecergasan, spa terkini, dua restoran, dua bar, gelanggang tenis, ruang majlis dewan besar yang mampu memuatkan 650 tetamu pada satu masa serta kolam renang luar ala resort.

''Hotel bertaraf lima bintang itu menyediakan 381 bilik penginapan termasuk 125 bilik mewah, manakala bagi tetamu jangka panjang, hotel juga menawarkan 19 unit pangsapuri untuk disewa.

''Tahap piawaian hotel kami, Thistle Johor Bahru memang tiada tandingannya di bandar raya ini. Kami tidak sabar untuk membuka pintu dan menawarkan kepada tetamu sesuatu yang serba baru dengan gaya kontemporari British serta layanan mesra Asia," katanya.

Hotel Thistle merupakan sebahagian daripada Guoman Hotel Management (UK) Limited, dimiliki oleh Guocoland (Malaysia) Berhad, anak syarikat Kumpulan Hong Leong.

rizalhakim

August 6th, 2009, 07:21 AM

RM30 juta bangunkan semula Pasar Awam Kg. Melayu Majidee
JOHOR BAHRU 5 Ogos - Projek pembangunan semula Pasar Awam Kampung Melayu Majidee yang kini berusia 25 tahun dijangka menelan kos melebihi RM30 juta.

Ahli Parlimen Johor Bahru, Datuk Shahrir Abdul Samad berkata, projek itu memerlukan sumbangan modal pembiayaan daripada Kementerian Perumahan dan Kerajaan Tempatan (KPKT) atau Pihak Berkuasa Wilayah Pembangunan Iskandar (IRDA).

Beliau berkata, projek pembinaan melibatkan bangunan tiga tingkat termasuk tempat meletak kereta bawah tanah itu akan dimulakan sebaik sahaja meneliti semua maklum balas daripada para peniaga.

"Apa yang menjadi masalah utama mengenai projek ini kepada peniaga adalah tempoh pembinaan yang akan mengambil masa panjang berikutan kerja-kerja menggali bagi tempat meletak kereta bawah tanah.

"Selain itu, masalah lain yang berbangkit ialah penempatan pasar awam sementara yang perlu memenuhi keperluan semua pihak seperti kemudahan tempat meletak kereta dan sistem pengangkutan awam," katanya.

Beliau berkata demikian pada sidang akhbar selepas Program Gerak Mesra Rakyat Gotong-Royong dan Taklimat Pembangunan Pasar Awam Kampung Melayu Majidee di sini hari ini.

Turut hadir, Ahli Dewan Undangan Negeri (ADUN) Tanjung Puteri, Adam Sumiru dan Yang Dipertua, Persatuan Peniaga Kampung Melayu Majidee, Nik Hasni Melan.

Shahrir berkata, projek pembangunan semula Pasar Awam Kampung Melayu Majidee itu akan dilaksanakan berdasarkan kepentingan peranan pasar awam yang berkonsep mesra peniaga dan pelanggan.

Jelas beliau, projek itu bakal direka bentuk sebagai pusat sehenti (one stop centre) yang memenuhi ciri-ciri pembangunan bersepadu.

Katanya, apabila siap kelak, projek berkenaan dapat menampung lebih 300 peniaga basah di aras satu dan peniaga komersial di aras atas selain jumlah tempat meletak kereta sebanyak 300 petak.

"Pada masa sama, saya akan memastikan kadar sewa tapak adalah sama seperti sekarang, manakala bayaran letak kereta adalah RM1 sekali masuk.

"Saya mengalu-alukan maklum balas daripada semua pihak untuk memberi pandangan masing-masing dalam usaha menjadikan projek ini lebih terbuka dan telus serta tidak menimbulkan sebarang rasa tidak puas hati apabila siap kelak," katanya.

Shahrir berharap agar projek pembangunan semula Pasar Awam Kampung Melayu Majidee itu boleh menjadi sebahagian daripada projek di koridor Iskandar Malaysia apabila Majlis Bandaraya Johor Bahru (MBJB) bertindak sebagai pencetus idea.

rizalhakim

August 6th, 2009, 07:23 AM

http://www.thistle.com/media/Images/Hotels/Malaysia/Johor_Bahru/Thistle_Johor_Bahru/pageBanner/full_Thistle_Johor_Bahru_Hotel_Exterior.jpg

http://www.thistle.com/hotels/malaysia/johor_bahru/thistle_johor_bahru/index.html

rizalhakim

August 7th, 2009, 04:57 AM

Bonsai added as a new attraction this year
By MOHD FARHAAN SHAH

JOHOR BARU: The International Orchid Exhibition is back in town with bonsai added to the list of exhibits at the show that opened here yesterday.

State Tourism, Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs Committee chairman Hoo Seong Chang said this was the largest orchid exhibition to be held at the Danga Bay Convention Centre and would attract many despite the rising number of Influenza A (H1N1) cases in the state.

http://thestar.com.my/archives/2009/8/7/southneast/se_02decorating.jpg
Colour coordination: Workers decorating an orchid exhibition area at the show.

“We expect more than 250,000 visitors. Besides orchids, the exhibition will be interesting for people fascinated by bonsai,” he said at a press conference here.

Hoo said that 11 countries had confirmed participation along with 40 local organisations.

“The countries are Brunei, China, India, Indonesia, Japan, Myanmar, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam.

“It is the first time the biennial event is being held at the convention centre,” he said, adding that 20,000 cut orchid flowers and 5,000 orchids plants would be on display during the four-day event.

http://thestar.com.my/archives/2009/8/7/southneast/se_02orchids.jpg
Refreshing:Visitors viewing orchids sold at the International Orchid and Bonsai Show in Johor Baru.

“A special attraction this year is the bonsai collection with no less than 250 exhibits,” he said, adding that Malaysia was the second-largest orchid exporter in the world after Thailand.

Hoo said there would be 50 booths selling orchids and bonsai plants besides food and beverages at the venue.

“In conjunction with the show, an orchid seminar will be held at Grand Paragon Hotel with speakers from the Philippines, Japan, Singapore and Myanmar. Admission is free,” he said.

He added that RM80,000 in prize money would be up for grabs in eight categories in a contest where the orchid landscaping category was open to both Malaysian and international exhibitors.

He said that cash awards would be given in three other categories namely Best Orchid Decoration in Hotels and Shopping Malls, Best Photograph and Best Table Display, which was open to students.

“Judges will also look for the most beautiful flower in the Best Individual Plant category,” he said, adding that more than 100 local and foreign professors in botany would be the judges.

The exhibition will end on Sunday.

rizalhakim

August 7th, 2009, 05:45 AM

Johor cadang bina akuarium gergasi, taman orkid

JOHOR BAHRU 6 Ogos - Kerajaan Johor bercadang membina sebuah akuarium gergasi untuk menternak ikan hiasan bagi tujuan eksport. Menteri Besar, Datuk Abdul Ghani Othman berkata, bilangan pengusaha dan nilai eksport yang tinggi menjadikan Johor sebagai negeri utama pengeluar ikan hiasan di negara ini.

"Cadangan membina akuarium ini dapat menambahkan pengeluaran ikan hiasan sekali gus meningkatkan pengeksportan ikan tersebut," katanya.

Beliau berkata demikian semasa merasmikan Pameran Orkid dan Bonsai Antarabangsa Johor Bahru 2009 di Pusat Konvensyen Teluk Danga, di sini hari ini.

Selain itu, kerajaan negeri juga berhasrat mewujudkan satu kawasan khas untuk pameran orkid.

Menurutnya, dengan adanya pusat pameran itu atau dikenali sebagai taman orkid, ia akan meningkatkan lagi pengeluaran bunga tersebut.

"Pasaran eksport untuk bunga orkid di Malaysia meningkat secara konsisten iaitu sebanyak 10 peratus setahun sejak 10 tahun lalu.

"Nilai pasarannya pada tahun 1999 adalah sebanyak RM30 juta, tahun lalu sebanyak RM60 juta dan tahun ini dijangka mencecah RM63 juta," katanya.

Sementara itu, sebanyak 13 buah negara mengambil bahagian dalam pameran tersebut tahun ini dengan sebanyak 5,000 orkid serta 20,000 bunga orkid yang dipotong dipamerkan kepada orang ramai.

Pameran empat hari bermula hari ini turut mempamerkan sebanyak 250 bonsai yang dibawa dari Terengganu, Kelantan, Pahang, Selangor dan Singapura selain Johor.

Sebanyak 40 kumpulan dan persatuan dari seluruh negara termasuk kerajaan tempatan mengambil bahagian pada pameran itu.

Bagi para penggemar orkid, pihak penganjur menyediakan 50 gerai terbuka yang menjual pelbagai barangan serta keperluan orkid dan bonsai, di samping makanan, minuman dan persembahan hiburan.

Acara kemuncak pameran itu adalah jualan lelong orkid pada hari terakhir pameran iaitu Ahad ini.

Justeru, penggemar orkid dan bonsai dijemput datang beramai-ramai untuk mengunjungi pameran yang menawarkan spesies terbaru pada harga berpatutan.

rizalhakim

August 10th, 2009, 09:11 AM

SPV laksana projek ubah bandar JB

JOHOR BAHRU: Prihatin dengan masalah yang melanda pusat bandar raya ini, selepas pembukaan Bangunan Sultan Iskandar (BSI), Oktober lalu, kerajaan negeri bersetuju untuk melaksanakan Pelan Transformasi JB Sentral dengan menubuhkan Syarikat Tujuan Khas (SPV) untuk melaksanakan projek berkenaan.

Menteri Besar, Datuk Abdul Ghani Othman yang juga Pengerusi Bersama Pihak Berkuasa Wilayah Pembangunan Iskandar (IRDA), berkata kerajaan bersetuju menubuhkan SPV pada mesyuarat IRDA tiga minggu lalu, di Putrajaya bagi melaksanakan perubahan terhadap pusat bandar raya ini, terutama sekali di Jalan Wong Ah Fook.

"Perdana Menteri, Datuk Seri Najib Razak selaku Pengerusi Bersama IRDA sudah memberi lampu hijau bagi menubuhkan SPV berkenaan yang akan melaksanakan pelan berkenaan dianggarkan bernilai RM200 juta," katanya kepada Berita Harian di sini, kelmarin.

Sebelum ini, peniaga dan masyarakat di pusat bandar mendesak kerajaan supaya segera bertindak bagi menyelamatkan kawasan berkenaan, yang semakin malap daripada aktiviti ekonomi berikutan kurangnya pengunjung khusus di kalangan rakyat Singapura apabila BSI dibuka pada Oktober lalu.

BSI yang beroperasi sebagai Kompleks Kastam, Imigresen dan Kuarantin (KIK) baru menggantikan Tambak Johor mengubah aliran trafik dari Singapura ke bandar raya ini dan sebaliknya, dengan kenderaan tidak lagi perlu melalui pusat bandar.

Ia menyebabkan peniaga di pusat bandar kehilangan pelanggan terutama di kalangan rakyat Singapura, yang akan singgah ke premis perniagaan mereka sebelum pulang ke negara jiran itu.

Desakan turut dibuat dua Ahli Parlimen di pusat bandar berkenaan, iaitu Ahli Parlimen Johor Bahru, Datuk Shahrir Samad dan Ahli Parlimen Pulai, Datuk Nur Jazlan Mohamed yang khuatir pusat bandar berkenaan akan 'mati' kerana kakitangan kerajaan di Bangunan Sultan Ibrahim juga turut berpindah ke Kota Iskandar yang menjadi pusat pentadbiran kerajaan negeri baru.

rizalhakim

August 11th, 2009, 08:27 AM

KSL - Condominium with golf course in the sky

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3473/3810919192_164553a76e_o.jpg

KSL Holdings Bhd is targeting the foreign market for its latest project, D’Esplanade Residence @ KSL City. It is a freehold condominium with golf course in the sky.

They are targeting residents and expatriates in Singapore, also attracting Malaysian professionals working and residing in Singapore,

D’Esplanade Residence will comprise a four-storey retail podium block, two 20-storey hotel blocks with 1,000 rooms, and two 33-storey apartment towers with 346 units when fully completed in about three years. The fully furnished unites start from $128,888 (I believe is SGD), wih 8% Guarateed rental return for 3 years. .

The KSL City is located within the matured Century Gardens, opposite the Holiday Plaza shopping complex and near Jalan Datuk Suleiman. It is about 2km from the Johor Baru central business district and the new Johor Baru Customs, Immigration and Quarantine complex.

For enquire, call +65-8383 3373.

Vince

August 12th, 2009, 07:55 AM

Funds for Johor Baru rehabilitation, Fed Govt to give RM200m
By ZAZALI MUSA

JOHOR BARU: Iskandar Regional Development Authority (Irda) has agreed to set up a special purpose vehicle (SPV) to rehabilitate Johor Baru city centre.

Mentri Besar Datuk Abdul Ghani Othman, who is also Irda co-chairman with Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak, said the SPV would come under the state government.

“The Federal Government is allocating RM200mil for the project including cleaning up Sungai Segget which flows along Jalan Wong Ah Fook in the city centre,’’ he told a press conference yesterday.

He was speaking after handing over RM750,000 to the Southern Area Johor Fishermen’s Association and RM15,000 each to four Village Development and Security Communities by Central Malaysian Properties Sdn Bhd, the developer of the RM2.7bil Lido Boulevard waterfront development project near here.

Ghani said the SPV would come out with the project details within the next three months including the designs of façade of the buildings along the street.

He said the 1.6km Jalan Wong Ah Fook would be converted into a pedestrian mall starting from Kompleks Tun Abdul Razak to a pocket garden at Jalan Tun Sri Lanang.

He said vehicles would no longer be allowed to enter Jalan Wong Ah Fook while the existing bus stops and taxi stands along the road would be moved to Jalan Tun Abdul Razak near the railway station.

“The rehabilitation project is part of the Comprehensive Development Plan under Iskandar Malaysia which started in 2006 and ends in 2025,’’ said Ghani.

He said the main objective of the rehabilitation project was to ensure that Johor Baru city centre remained a vibrant place in line with the transformation of Lido Beach into an international waterfront development.

On an unrelated matter, Ghani said the state government was currently negotiating with several local investors including public-listed companies to invest in Johor.

The potential investors are in the property, manufacturing, and oil and gas sectors.

“We are looking at the medium rather than the huge-scale investments as they can take off faster,’’ said Ghani.

This is one big dumb idea. When the Australian consultant did a city study for the Johor government about how to improve JB in the early 90s, turning Jalan Wong Ah Fook into a pedestrian street mall was mooted. However the study also came with the adoption of an LRT system that would run through the city centre, allowing people to ride into JB central without having to bring their cars in. Now with no mass transit in sight, how can you close down the only major street (Yes, it is the only major street) in JB without having the businesses badly affected? Also, back in the 90s, the Johor State government also wanted to remove the name "Jalan Wong Ah Fook". I wonder if they are still considering doing that. Anyhow, enough money has been pumped in to "clean up" Sungei Segget but it is still one stinking mess. The city actually "solves" this problem downtown by simply covering it up with concrete slabs and turn them into a walkway..... ingeneous huh?

rizalhakim

August 12th, 2009, 08:05 AM

Kerajaan diminta bina segera lorongpejalan kaki di CIQ Tanjung Puteri

http://www.utusan.com.my/pix/2009/0812/Utusan_Malaysia/Johor/wj_05.1.jpg
SHAHRIR Abdul Samad (dua dari kiri) bersama Datuk Bandar Johor Bahru, Mohd. Jaafar Awang (kiri) dan Pengarah Urusan Gerbang Perdana Sdn. Bhd, Datuk Yahya A. Jalil (tiga dari kiri) ketika melawat Tambak Johor di Johor Bahru, semalam.

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JOHOR BAHRU 11 Ogos - Kerajaan diminta mempercepatkan pembinaan lorong pejalan kaki di Kompleks Kastam, Imigresen dan Kuarantin (CIQ) yang lama di Tanjung Puteri di sini.

Ahli Parlimen Johor Bahru, Datuk Shahrir Abdul Samad berkata, biarpun ia sudah beberapa kali dibangkitkan, pembinaannya masih lagi belum menampakkan sebarang keputusan.

Malah, menurutnya lagi, bangunan CIQ yang lama juga sudah dirobohkan.

''Pembinaan lorong pejalan kaki itu adalah bagi memudahkan pengguna apabila tiba waktu puncak. Ini kerana pejalan kaki perlu menunggu lama untuk menyeberangi dari CIQ Bangunan Sultan Iskandar ke bandar raya.

''Ia juga boleh menghidupkan kawasan bandar raya Johor Bahru terutama di Jalan Wong Ah Fook yang sudah menerima tempias akibat pembinaan CIQ baru,'' katanya.

Beliau berkata demikian kepada pemberita selepas mengadakan lawatan di JB Sentral, CIQ lama dan CIQ Bangunan Sultan Iskandar di sini hari ini.

Mac lalu, Menteri Dalam Negeri yang ketika itu Tan Sri Syed Hamid Albar berkata, kerajaan sentiasa prihatin dan bersimpati terhadap kesusahan pejalan kaki termasuk golongan pekerja yang tidak mampu berjalan sejauh satu kilometer dari tambak ke Bangunan CIQ baru di Bukit Chagar.

Katanya, keputusan itu dimuktamadkan pada mesyuarat Kabinet dan Jabatan Imigresen telah diarah untuk mengkaji dan seterusnya mengemukakan pelan bagi mengatasi masalah itu secepat mungkin.

Dalam perkembangan yang sama, Shahrir juga meminta agar kemudahan infrastruktur di Bangunan Sultan Iskandar yang menempatkan CIQ perlu dikaji semula bagi mencapai matlamatnya.

Tambahnya, kemudahan yang perlu diambil kira adalah tempat meletak kenderaan yang dilihat tidak fleksibel dan mesra pengguna.

Kata Shahrir, kemudahan tempat meletak kenderaan hanya disediakan di pintu masuk bahagian barat sahaja.

''Hakikatnya, tidak semua pengguna CIQ masuk melalui pintu barat. Ada juga yang masuk di pintu timur. Apabila terjadi keadaan seperti ini, pengguna perlu pusing bangunan untuk ke kawasan tersebut," katanya lagi.

rizalhakim

August 12th, 2009, 10:21 AM

I&P to develop 572.23ha land in Johor
Published: 2009/08/12

THE I&P Group has earmarked 572.23 hectares of land bank here currently under its wholly-owned subsidiary, Pelangi Sdn Bhd, for future development.

Managing Director Datuk Jamaludin Osman said the new launches would begin as soon as the group had cleared the existing stock of 300 houses and shoplots here valued at over RM100 million.

He said the land bank was the balance from past project - Taman Pelangi - and existing projects - Taman Pelangi Indah, Taman Perling and Taman Rinting.

It was part of the 2,266.24 hectares owned by the I&P Group formed following a successful merger between Island & Peninsular Sdn Bhd, Petaling Garden Sdn Bhd and Pelangi Sdn Bhd on April 31 this year, he said.

The development will be for the RM300,000 and above niche market, he told a press conference on a three-day JB Mega Sales Carnival to be held from Friday at the Pelangi Leisure Mall here to clear the stocks spread over Taman Pelangi Indah, Taman Pelangi, Taman Rinting and Taman Perling.

They also include units in newly-launched projects such as the high-end D'Serambi gated community in Taman Perling, Tiara Pelangi II in Taman Pelangi Indah and 16 residential units in Taman Rinting.

"We are giving price discounts up to 28 per cent," said Jamaludin, noting that the prices ranged from RM190,000 to RM850,000 each.

Potential buyers only need to pay a RM5,000 deposit for completed units and RM10,000 for houses under construction with all other fees absorbed by the developer.

They include legal fees for the sales and purchase agreement, bank loan, stamp duty for the property transfer and disbursement.
Most of the houses on offer are double-storey terrace link units.

Pelangi Sdn Bhd, one of the oldest and most established housing developer in Johor, has todate delivered over 22,000 homes to families in Johor Baharu. - Bernama

peromyvi

August 12th, 2009, 11:30 PM

I heard the govt hv demolished the old CIQ. I wonder what are they gonna build there. Dono how long must we wait till JB Sentral is opened

rizalhakim

August 13th, 2009, 05:03 AM

I&P taking cue from Klang Valley
By ZAZALI MUSA

JOHOR BARU: I&P Group Sdn Bhd plans to introduce the Klang Valley lifestyle to the Johor Baru property market via wholly-owned subsidiary Pelangi Sdn Bhd.

Group managing director Datuk Jamaludin Osman said it would be bringing in the new concept and new design for its future property launches in Johor Baru.

http://biz.thestar.com.my/archives/2009/8/13/business/b_p7Jamaludin.jpg
Datuk Jamaludin Osman (right) with a model of Tiara semidetached houses. With him are I&P southern region deputy general manager Abd Razak Mohd Yusof and group marketing and communications general manager Noor Lida Nazri

He said the company wanted to repeat the success story of its projects in Kuala Lumpur and Selangor, such as Seri Beringin Bukit Damansara and Temasya Glenmarie, for buyers in Johor Baru.

“We are looking at the niche category for residential properties priced above RM300,000 with larger built-up area and better design,” Jamaludin said at a briefing yesterday on its JB Mega Property Sales Carnival to be held at Pelangi Leisure on Aug 14-16.

He said the three-day event would showcase an existing stock of 300 residential and commercial properties valued at over RM100mil at prevailing market prices.

All the properties are located in its existing development schemes near hear in Taman Pelangi Indah, Taman Perling and Taman Rinting.

He said once the existing stocks were cleared, the company would roll out new launches under Pelangi as it still has 107.24ha left in the ongoing Taman Pelangi Indah and 364.21ha for the yet-to-be-launched Taman Pelangi Indah II.

To date, I&P Group has about 606.21ha land bank in Johor, including 134.76ha in Gelang Patah near the Port of Tanjung Pelepas.

“We are going for high-end properties in limited units for our future launches in Johor as we believe that this segment is growing,” Jamaludin said.

I&P Group, wholly-owned by the Permodalan Nasional Bhd, is the new entity following the successful merger of three properties companies – Island & Peninsular Sdn Bhd, Petaling Garden Sdn Bhd and Pelangi Sdn Bhd – in May.

rizalhakim

August 14th, 2009, 05:32 AM

Home expo draws 38,000 visitors
By DESIREE TRESA GASPER

JOHOR BARU: The three-day Homedec exhibition was a crowd-puller with over 38,000 visitors crowding the one-stop expo to view current trends and buy the latest gadgets for their homes.

G. Mary, 50, said she visited the exhibition every year to keep up with latest home-decoration styles.

“I love interior design and I always try to keep up to date with the trends.

“I find exhibitions like this very convenient as they feature a variety of interesting concepts I can learn from,” she said.

She added that she had come the previous day and did not have time to tour all the booths.

http://thestar.com.my/archives/2009/8/14/southneast/ms_pg09homedec.jpg
Variety: Visitors looking at designer fans at the Homedec exhibition in Johor Baru recently.

“I think there are more booths and more interesting items to look at this year.

“I was especially drawn to wall stencils, which seem to be budding into a craze,” she said, adding that she spent almost an hour choosing a design for her house.

Another visitor, Farah Khairil, 26, who is a housewife, said she initially came to accompany her mother but found herself fascinated by the variety of items on display.

“I usually don’t splurge on household goods, but Hari Raya Aidilfitri is around the corner and some of the items are reasonably priced,” she said.

She said it was a financially tight year, but Raya would not be the same without new carpets and window trimmings.

Organiser C.I.S. Network Sdn Bhd’s events director Janice Gan said the exhibition featured over 130 companies specialising in various areas.

“We have segregated the booths according to categories like kitchen, bathroom, garden, landscape and security products,” she said.

She said the exhibition also featured a “Just Married” bedroom showcase catering to newlyweds and those about to get married.

rizalhakim

August 17th, 2009, 04:25 AM

New museum to spur Johor Baru
By GLADYS TAY

JOHOR BARU: The opening of the first Chinese history museum here will help bring the city back to life and spur tourism.

Johor Baru Tiong Hua Association manager Eric Ku said besides conserving the culture of the Chinese in Johor, the museum would add to the variety of cultural attractions in the city that could draw tourists to the area.

http://thestar.com.my/archives/2009/8/17/nation/n_pg24museum.jpg
Majestic: The first Chinese history museum located along Jalan Ibrahim in Johor Baru.
Located at a 60-year-old building along Jalan Ibrahim in the heart of the city, the museum would feature a collection of artefacts related to the Cantonese, Hokkien, Hainanese, Hakka and Teochew clans, he said.

He added that the presence of pre-war shops near the museum would add to the “traditional” atmosphere in the area.

“For example, a famous traditional bread factory and a kueh teow soup outlet which is now operated by the third generation are only a few minutes’ walk from the museum.

“Besides that, the buildings in the area are all above 60 years old and the Chinese Old Temple that has existed since 1870 is also located nearby,” he said.

On the items to be displayed at the museum, Ku said it would mainly comprise of pictures on cultural events celebrated in the olden days and also cultural tools and equipment used in the past that are rarely found now.

“The representatives from the different clans and associations have spent about five years to gather the objects and documents.

“We are now finalising the items to be displayed and all descriptions will be written in Malay, English and Chinese,” he said, adding that the estimated investments on the museum was about RM1.5mil.

He said that Johor Mentri Besar Datuk Abdul Ghani Othman is expected to open the museum on Oct 3, which falls on the Mid-Autumn Festival day.

Ku said that among the events to be held in line with the opening was a special exhibition on traditional weddings of all the five clans.

“Subsequently, we will conduct exhibitions related to the traditions and cultures of the clans to attract visitors,” he said.

Those who wish to contribute to the museum can contact the association at 07-2788 999.

Real wannabe

August 17th, 2009, 07:47 AM

its obvious to notice the Chinese invasion in other countries, right?

Lastresorter

August 17th, 2009, 07:56 AM

^^ I'm sorry?

nazrey

August 19th, 2009, 07:00 PM

JB

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3465/3222437706_662d99a6c3_b.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2258/2083393210_1c6da085cb_o.jpg

from flickr

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2479/3829607453_e4a955e0de_o.jpg

nazrey

August 20th, 2009, 10:00 AM

http://www.sgwiki.com/images/3/39/Bridge.jpg

C.P Tan

August 20th, 2009, 12:58 PM

its obvious to notice the Chinese invasion in other countries, right?

Chinese invasion? What are you talking about?:bash::bash:

TYW

August 20th, 2009, 02:08 PM

Chinese invasion? What are you talking about?:bash::bash:

obviously racism... :bash:

C.P Tan

August 20th, 2009, 05:34 PM

I think real wannabe is a racist and perhaps a religious fanatics. We should promote "One Malaysia" concept (is it a concept?). We are all Malaysians regardless of what race and religion we belong to.

khosim

August 20th, 2009, 07:00 PM

please stop any racial remarks here!it has nothing to do with the forum..cheers!

nazrey

August 22nd, 2009, 08:41 PM

from flickr

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http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2552/3821702099_4990bcd0f4_b.jpg

nazrey

August 23rd, 2009, 12:38 AM

from flickr

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New JB Sentral Railway Station

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3105/3157000614_61b4fd217a_b.jpg

nazrey

August 23rd, 2009, 12:48 AM

Danga City Mall, Johor Bahru

This shopping mall had bring back live again! It was named Best World Shopping Mall those day, then it took over by Danga Bay Management and re-renovate the mall call - Danga City Mall today.

http://www.picamatic.com/show/2009/06/19/07/37/4053011_640x482.jpg

The mall was open on December 2008.

On the 5th of January 2009, they provided the Train and Shuttle Bus services.
The KTM Train ticket counter located at the 2nd Floor of the Mall.

http://www.picamatic.com/show/2009/06/19/07/39/4053038_640x482.jpg

Just beside an optical shop

The Train Schedule :-

From Singapore ->Danga Mall->Kempas Baru (Fare : SGD3.00)
-------5.35am------>6.21am------->6.45am (Train no. 26)
-------7.40am------>8.34am------->8.50am (Train no. 2)
-------2.00pm------>2.54pm------->3.10pm (Train no. 6)
-------6.00pm------>7.05pm------->7.29pm (Train no. 14)
-------7.10pm------->8.18pm------->8.30pm (Train no. 28)
-------10.00pm----->11.30pm------>11.35pm (Train no. 10)

From Danga Mall->Woodlands->Singapore (T. Pagar) (Fare : MYR3.00)
-------5.10am------->6.55am------->8.15am (Train no. 11)
-------8.50am------->9.15am------->10.10am (Train no. 15)
-------9.37am------->9.52am------->11.00am (Train no. 29)
-------2.19pm------->2.34pm------->4.11pm (Train no. 5)
-------8.08pm------->8.28pm------->9.35pm (Train no. 1)

The Free Shuttle Bus Schedule :-
(Pickup at the Main Entrance of the Mall)

From Tmn Universiti ->Danga City Mall
9.00am
11.30am
2.30pm
5.10pm
7.30pm

From Danga City Mall ->Danga Festive Mall - Danga Bay
4.10pm
5.40pm
7.10pm
8.40pm
10.10pm

From Danga Festive Mall - Danga Bay -> Danga City Mall
10.30am
1.00pm
4.00pm
6.30pm
9.30pm

http://www.picamatic.com/show/2009/06/19/07/37/4053007_640x482.jpg

The walkway from the Mall to the platform

http://www.picamatic.com/show/2009/06/19/07/37/4053010_640x482.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3409/3274941109_08219357db_o.jpg

from flickr

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3503/3792987125_5f85b3ea00_o.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3440/3793803536_7ce9c4c97c_o.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2487/3792987851_350a2ee4df_o.jpg

bonoslack7

August 23rd, 2009, 02:43 PM

http://www.worldarchitecturenews.com/index.php?fuseaction=wanappln.showprojectbigimages&img=1&pro_id=12161

nazrey

August 24th, 2009, 07:11 PM

from picasaweb

http://www.picamatic.com/show/2009/08/24/08/56/4841413_768x571.JPG

http://www.picamatic.com/show/2009/08/24/08/55/4841410_768x571.JPG

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http://www.picamatic.com/show/2009/08/24/09/06/4841532_766x1152.JPG

nazrey

August 24th, 2009, 07:18 PM

Bangunan Sultan Ibrahim

http://lh5.ggpht.com/_5nPN1VKlBCw/SMyH4RRTIfI/AAAAAAAAAmE/1xaedaNLOuU/s640/IMG_8405.JPG

nazrey

August 24th, 2009, 07:21 PM

from picasaweb

http://www.picamatic.com/show/2009/08/24/09/22/4841679_765x1019.JPG

rizalhakim

August 26th, 2009, 08:01 AM

Taman Bandar Pasir Gudang kian popular

JOHOR BAHRU 25 Ogos - Taman Bandar Pasir Gudang di sini kini semakin popular sebagai lokasi tumpuan bagi aktiviti rekreasi dan riadah keluarga.

Yang Dipertua Majlis Perbandaran Pasir Gudang, Lukman Abu Bakar berkata, taman itu adalah taman rekreasi terbesar di daerah ini dan merupakan kawasan hijau untuk manfaat penduduk.

"Taman Bandar seluas 56.65 hektar ini adalah kawasan hijau terbesar yang diwartakan kerajaan negeri untuk manfaat penduduk," katanya ketika merasmikan majlis penanaman pkok laman rimba tropika di taman tersebut di sini baru-baru ini.

Beliau berkata, taman tersebut akan merubah wajah Pasir Gudang bukan sahaja menjadi bandar perindustrian yang menempatkan lebih 350 kilang, tetapi juga pada kawasan riadah di Johor Bahru.

Menurutnya, struktur fizikalnya yang beralun dan permukaan tanah lapang yang berumput serta kedudukannya yang tinggi dari aras laut merupakan satu keunikan dan keistimewaan Taman Bandar berbanding tempat lain.

"Taman Bandar kini menjadi tumpuan bukan sahaja penduduk Pasir gudang tetapi juga pengunjung luar daerah ini," katanya.

Lukman memberitahu, taman tersebut melengkapkan lokasi-lokasi menarik di sekitarnya antaranya Bukit Layang-Layang, tiga tasik, masjid jamek dan beberapa taman rekreasi lain.

Beliau berkata, kawasan-kawasan berkenaan terletak dalam kawasan hijau yang tidak kurang daripada 10 peratus daripada keseluruhan daerah itu.

Menurutnya, Pasir Gudang mempunyai lebih 19 peratus kawasan hijau dan ia merupakan keluasan tertinggi bagi sesebuah kawasan pembangunan.

Vince

August 27th, 2009, 05:45 AM

There is not a single highrise construction in and around downtown JB for the past 10 YEARS already! I wonder when anything is going to happen, and please, no more CGs....

khosim

August 27th, 2009, 06:19 AM

what is CG btw?

Vince

August 27th, 2009, 06:21 AM

Ohhhh, CG = Computer Graphics. I see many of these nowadays.

rizalhakim

August 27th, 2009, 07:54 AM

^^ dis guy totally weird!!!

The 'suite' taste of luxury
Ahmad Fairuz Othman
2009/08/27

http://www1.nst.com.my/JohorBuzz/Thursday/Stories/20090827091207/insidepix1?display=small
The CintaAyu all-suites hotel at the Pulai Springs Resort.

Pulai Springs Resort gives new meaning to the words ‘luxury’ and ‘hospitality’, discovers Ahmad Fairuz Othman

Resort general manager Mike Ryan (left) and staff at the entrance of the newly-renovated Anugraha boutique hotel.
ALONG the trunk road between Skudai and Pontian, lies an oasis of lush greenery and blue waters.

Pulai Springs Resort is the name of this haven for those seeking respite from the city, without having to travel far, as well as holiday-makers from all over the world.

Equipped with two US PGA championship golf courses, the five-star resort offers the choice of accommodation in a suite or an apartment. Its many food and beverage outlets, including the award-winning Qing Palace Chinese restaurant, will please even the most discerning of gourmets.

And with a new management team in place, the resort is set to become even better than it was.

Accolades have been heaped on Pulai Springs Resort -- it is among the world's top 50 golf resorts in "The Finest Golf Resorts of the World Collection 1999 and 2000", which is ranked by a society made up of the world's most distinguished clubs, based in St Andrews, Scotland.

It had received two awards for excellence from Fiabci, or the International Real Estate Federation.

The resort's Qing Palace Chinese restaurant was consistently listed as one of Malaysia's best restaurants by Tatler magazine, from 1999 to 2008.

The new management have set their sights firmly on making Pulai Springs Resort the resort of choice for the people of Johor, Malaysia, and, of course, the world.

Resort general manager, Mike Ryan, who joined the team 14 months ago, said maintaining and even improving the high standard of service was the main priority.

"My goals are to improve our service through the continuous training of our people," said Ryan, who has more than 11 years' experience in managing hotel chains in South Australia.

"The development of better facilities is another priority."

To that end, they have renovated the 22-apartment boutique hotel, Anugraha, which means "blessing of God".

The boutique hotel was recently reopened, luxuriously refurbished and fitted with amenities fit for royalty. Its facade is modelled after the traditional Malay palace, while its interior is lavishly appointed with original designs and details. Each of the apartments command a spectacular view of the resort's golf course.

The other lodging option is CintaAyu, an all-suite hotel. There are 350 apartment suites in different sizes. Up to eight guests can be comfortably accommodated in some of the suites.

For excitement, entertainment and relaxation, there are a wide variety of facilities.

There are the aforementioned two 18-hole golf courses, two swimming pools, a jacuzzi, spa, sport and recreation centre, gymnasium, a golf driving range and tennis courts.

Children are also catered for. "Parents need not worry about their kids as there is a host of activities to keep them occupied. Parents can drop their kids off at the Tee Tee Club, which has fun, educational healthy activities like guided tours and nature walks," said Ryan.

Pulai Pavilion, which is the resort's main activity centre, houses a cineplex with a capacity for 72 people, bridal shop, the Qing Palace Chinese restaurant, Ramayana Lounge, Gleneagles Terrace, and Elephant & Castle.

Gleneagles Terrace serves local and Western cuisine in a casual ambience beside the golf course. For Ramadan, it has seven types of menus proffering seafood, grilled meats, ulam and much more.

Elephant & Castle has a bar, pool table and karaoke lounge. On Friday and Saturday nights, there are live music performances.

For corporate guests, the resort offers conference and seminar venues at the Kayangan Suites, Dewan Kencanapuri and Dewan Inderaputera.

"Many think of Pulai Springs as just a golf resort. But it is so much more than that. My aim is to make that fact known to all," said Ryan.

As it is, the hotel is already highly popular. During the nearby Universiti Teknologi Malaysia's convocation over the weekend, the resort recorded an occupancy rate of 11,000 guests.

For details, rates and reservations, call 07-521 2121 or visit www.pulaisprings.com.

rizalhakim

August 28th, 2009, 09:14 AM

Austin heights JB

http://austinheights.com.my/en/image/Aspen3B_TypeH_1.jpg

http://austinheights.com.my/en/image/Aspen3B_TypJ_1.jpg

http://austinheights.com.my

Austin Heights LUXURY ACADEMIC SUITE - Open For Registration

http://austinheights.com.my/en/image/AcademicSuite_01.jpg
Austin Heights seek to make a different that is truly unique combination of resident accommodation and academic place. Every effort is made to ensure that buyers are accommodated in a comfortable environment as well as learning atmosphere.

It shall Sound investment to Buy & Stay with Peace of Mind or Buy & Lease Back for Sound Returns with the immediate tenants from Sunway College as expected up to 6~8%leaseback guarantee return for 3+3 years*.

Register now to entitle for early bird discount.

rizalhakim

August 29th, 2009, 04:48 AM

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3117/3864491254_1041dbc29e_o.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2576/3864491034_782a5c0e7c_o.jpg

Austin Heights Private School

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2523/3864490806_262beb9c7e_b.jpg

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http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2437/3863707783_81b04fa2e6_b.jpg

http://austinheights.com.my

Austin Heights LUXURY ACADEMIC SUITE - Open For Registration

http://austinheights.com.my/en/image/AcademicSuite_01.jpg
Austin Heights seek to make a different that is truly unique combination of resident accommodation and academic place. Every effort is made to ensure that buyers are accommodated in a comfortable environment as well as learning atmosphere.

It shall Sound investment to Buy & Stay with Peace of Mind or Buy & Lease Back for Sound Returns with the immediate tenants from Sunway College as expected up to 6~8%leaseback guarantee return for 3+3 years*.

Register now to entitle for early bird discount.

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2534/3863707029_b9c0b7b5c2_b.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2462/3863707151_1d6ae11db9_o.jpg

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Senibong Cove
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Pelangi Junction Plaza - Another Proposal
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rizalhakim

August 29th, 2009, 04:49 AM

Johoreans want development, cleanliness and city revived
BY NELSON BENJAMIN AND AUSTIN CAMOENS

http://thestar.com.my/archives/2009/8/29/southneast/se_01johor.jpg

http://thestar.com.my/archives/2009/8/29/southneast/se_02clean.jpg
Taking care: An MBJB worker tending to the plants in the city.

JOHOR BARU: Johoreans and non-governmental groups in the state capital are pinning their hopes on new mayor Mohd Jaffar Awang to revive the city and improve its cleanliness and infrastructure development.

They feel that Johor Baru must emulate better-developed and cleaner cities such as Malacca and Ipoh.

Mohd Jaafar is the sixth mayor, having taken over from Datuk Mohd Naim Nasir early this month.

Safety and conducive development are topmost on the minds of folks here.

Johor Baru Indian Business Association chairman P. Sivakumar said that the mayor needed to make Johor Baru a vibrant city “Cleanliness must be emphasised.

There should be more rubbish bins available and council officers should conduct spot checks on eateries and against litterbugs,” he said.

Johor Baru Tiong Hua Association manager Eric Ku opined that the mayor should work towards turning Johor Baru into a tourist and heritage centre.

“With the state administrative centre now located in Nusajaya, the mayor will have to carry out projects to preserve the city,” he said.

Civil servant Shahir Kahdirman, 50, agreed: “Our city is the southern gateway into the peninsula and we should develop more places of interest to boost the tourism industry here.

He pointed out that Johor Baru needed more recreational areas and its infrastructure was in need of upgrading.

Rozana Moktar, 26, shared the sentiment, saying that there was a lack of pedestrian pathways.

Also concerned with safety, tourist guide Anne Molly Camoens, 51, said that the city council should increase the network of CCTV cameras, especially in areas where the new night bazaars were located.

Dorris Wee, a retiree, was of the same view.

She said snatch thefts was a growing menace in this city and suggested that the local council form a special task force with the police to curb the crime, along with the problem of illegal moneylenders.

Another major problem here, said college student Kimberly Angkangon, was flood and that Johor Baru City Council (MBJB) must take immediate steps to solve it.

Road and garbage disposal systems are among other areas that land surveyor Seow Chin Leng, 47, hoped the MBJB would look into.

While quality infrastructure is vital, Johor Baru denizens such as Margaret Er and Magdlane Tuborng place just as much importance on the city looking good.

Er, also a tourist guide, said abandoned projects that dotted the city were an eyesore.

She cited Pacific Mall as an example, saying that vandals had painted graffiti on the walls and drug addicts had been stealing the metal fixtures.

Tuborng, 33, summed it up: “Our city still has room for improvement so that it can live up to its metropolitan status.”

http://thestar.com.my/archives/2009/8/29/southneast/se_03jam.jpg
Congested: One of the main roads in the city centre.

StarMetro welcomes feedback from readers. E-mail to metrose@thestar.com.my.

Vince

August 29th, 2009, 07:39 AM

Ceass

September 2nd, 2009, 04:04 PM

There is not a single highrise construction in and around downtown JB for the past 10 YEARS already! I wonder when anything is going to happen, and please, no more CGs....

Hi Vince, just some updates for you. Currently Oakwood Residence at Danga Bay and KSL City are the latest highrise project in town.

IJM's Apartment at Taman Tasik (called "Lagenda") is almost done too.

Anyway the city is still lack of highrise projects. JB shall be able to do better. The town council shall work harder to improve the city's image in my opinion.

James Foong

September 2nd, 2009, 04:32 PM

nazrey

September 2nd, 2009, 06:16 PM

^^ But we dont see any progress pic here.

No progress pic...does not mean it is not yet start at the meanwhile :cheers:
Your mind is too simplistic to gauge the situation! Lebih2lagi mamat Vince was in JB...pegi tengok ngan mata dulu baru nak cakap... :) (oh jangan lupe ambil gambar!)

Ghani yakin projek Iskandar Malaysia siap ikut jadual

http://www.utusan.com.my/pix/2009/0615/Utusan_Malaysia/Johor/wj_04.1.jpg

Abdul Ghani Othman meninjau projek pembangunan di kawasan Teluk Danga
serta kerja-kerja menanam cerucuk untuk membina pangsapuri di Teluk
Danga, Johor Bahru semalam.

JOHOR BAHRU 14 Jun - Menteri Besar, Datuk Abdul Ghani Othman yakin projek pelaburan swasta atau kerajaan di kawasan pembangunan Iskandar Malaysia dapat disiapkan mengikut jadual.

Beliau berkata, setakat ini, 30 peratus daripada projek yang diumumkan telah menerima anugerah untuk dilaksanakan.

"Baik projek infrastruktur, pihak Kerajaan Persekutuan atau swasta yang diberi melalui belanjawan Rancangan Malaysia Kesembilan (RMK-9) atau peruntukan koridor Iskandar Malaysia, rata-rata telah mendapat anugerah pelaksanaannya," katanya.

Beliau berkata demikian selepas melawat tapak projek pembinaan penginapan mewah yang menghadap Selat Tebrau di Teluk Danga di sini semalam.

Turut hadir Pengerusi Iskandar Waterfront Development Sdn. Bhd. (IWD), Arlida Ariff dan Ketua Pegawai Eksekutifnya, Datuk Lim Kang Hoo.

Abdul Ghani berkata, antara projek yang sedang dibangunkan adalah penginapan Iskandar dan Oakwood yang menelan belanja sebanyak RM650 juta di Teluk Danga.

Projek berkenaan dibangunkan menerusi kerjasama antara IWD dan Danga Bay Sdn. Bhd. (DBSB).

"Sebanyak 280 unit penginapan Oakwood dan 500 unit penginapan Iskandar dijangka akan siap pada 2012 dan boleh dibuka untuk pasaran dalam beberapa bulan akan datang," katanya.

Pada majlis sama, Abdul Ghani turut memberitahu, kerja-kerja pelebaran Jalan Skudai daripada dua atau empat lorong menjadi enam lorong sedang dilaksanakan bagi mengatasi kesesakan lalu lintas di situ.

"Apabila kerja-kerja pelebaran dilakukan ia mampu untuk menampung arus kenderaan sekarang. Selain itu, pembinaan persimpangan jalan bertingkat di hujung Jalan Skudai juga sudah bermula," katanya.

Piling starts on Johor's biggest condo project
By Sim Bak HengPublished: 2009/06/15

http://www.btimes.com.my/articles/dbay14/pix_topright

CONSTRUCTION has started on the RM650 million Iskandar and Oakwood Residences in Danga Bay, touted as Johor's biggest condominium development.

The contract for piling works was awarded to Econpile (M) Sdn Bhd, a specialist piling contractor, which is expected to finish the job by October.

Actual building of the three-tower project, comprising about 750 luxurious units, will begin soon. Completion is scheduled for 2012.

The condominium project, taking up 2.5ha, is being developed by Global Corporate Development Sdn Bhd, a joint venture between Iskandar Waterfront Development Sdn Bhd (IWD) and Danga Bay Sdn Bhd (DBSB).

IWD is majority owned by Iskandar Investment Bhd, in which Khazanah Nasional Bhd holds a 60 per cent stake; the Employees Provident Fund, 20 per cent; and Kumpulan Prasarana Rakyat Johor, a state government-linked company, 20 per cent.

Johor Menteri Besar Datuk Abdul Ghani Othman, who is also Iskandar Regional Development Authority (Irda) co-chairman with the Prime Minister, visited the site last Saturday.

Present were IWD chairman Arlida Ariff and chief executive officer Datuk Lim Kang Hoo.

The 28-storey Oakwood Residence, with 230 units, is the southern region's first high-end serviced apartments to be managed by Oakwood Asia Pacific Pte Ltd.

The other two 38-storey towers, called Iskandar Residences, will have 523 residential units.

The podium block will offer a wide range of shopping, food and beverage facilities. Also available will be some 150,000 sq ft of corporate suites for local and multinational corporations keen to set up office in Iskandar Malaysia.

Several other signature waterfront developments in Danga Bay will be announced soon, including at least three hotel properties, an international convention and exhibition centre, office towers, and a wet and dry theme park.:banana::banana:

Hi Vince, just some updates for you. Currently Oakwood Residence at Danga Bay and KSL City are the latest highrise project in town.

IJM's Apartment at Taman Tasik (called "Lagenda") is almost done too.

Anyway the city is still lack of highrise projects. JB shall be able to do better. The town council shall work harder to improve the city's image in my opinion.

Oakwood Residence

http://www.iskandarwaterfront.com/news_img/imgbig_oakwood(1).gif

nazrey

September 2nd, 2009, 06:32 PM

IJM's Project:
Lagenda Tasek
http://www.ijmland.com/projectdetail.php?projectid=lagendatasek&type=Residential#01

http://www.ijmland.com/global/php-bin/include/gd/gd.php?gd=2&src=http://ijmlandweb.ijmland.com/img/project/315.jpg&maxw=500

http://www.ijmland.com/global/php-bin/include/gd/gd.php?gd=2&src=http://ijmlandweb.ijmland.com/img/project/316.jpg&maxw=500

SuriaMas Suites
Don't forget completion of SuriaMas Suites, Johor Bahru
- http://www.ijmland.com/projectdetail.php?projectid=suriamas&type=Residential
- http://www.skyscrapercity.com/showthread.php?t=487404

http://www.ijmland.com/global/php-bin/include/gd/gd.php?gd=2&src=http://ijmlandweb.ijmland.com/img/project/506.jpg&maxw=500

http://www.ijmland.com/global/php-bin/include/gd/gd.php?gd=2&src=http://webadmin.ijmproperties.com/img/project/420.jpg&maxw=500

nazrey

September 2nd, 2009, 06:38 PM

KSL City
Targeted to be End year 2011
- http://www.mywill.com.sg/desplanade.html
- http://www.kslcity.com.my/main.htm

http://www.mywill.com.sg/images/dsplanade.jpg

KSL - Condominium with golf course in the sky

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3473/3810919192_164553a76e_o.jpg

KSL Holdings Bhd is targeting the foreign market for its latest project, D’Esplanade Residence @ KSL City. It is a freehold condominium with golf course in the sky.

They are targeting residents and expatriates in Singapore, also attracting Malaysian professionals working and residing in Singapore,

D’Esplanade Residence will comprise a four-storey retail podium block, two 20-storey hotel blocks with 1,000 rooms, and two 33-storey apartment towers with 346 units when fully completed in about three years.(2011-2012) The fully furnished unites start from $128,888 (I believe is SGD), wih 8% Guarateed rental return for 3 years. .

The KSL City is located within the matured Century Gardens, opposite the Holiday Plaza shopping complex and near Jalan Datuk Suleiman. It is about 2km from the Johor Baru central business district and the new Johor Baru Customs, Immigration and Quarantine complex.

For enquire, call +65-8383 3373.

http://www.ckgraphic.com/exterior_33.jpg

http://www.kslcity.com.my/images/location.jpg

nazrey

September 2nd, 2009, 08:46 PM

JB To Host Inaugural Asia U-16 Basketball
September 01, 2009 18:26 PM

JOHOR BAHARU, Sept 1 (Bernama) -- Johor Bahru will play host to the inaugural Asia U-16 (Men's) Basketball Championship scheduled from Nov 19-27.

Which means the best of the young Asian talents from 16 countries will gather at the Johor Bahru City Council Indoor stadium here for the nine-day championship.

China, the power-house of Asian basketball, will be represented and so are the South Koreans and Japanese, together with the Iranians and Qataris.

At the launch of the championship logo here on Tuesday, state executive councillor for tourism and domestic trade Hoo Seang Chang, who is also Johor Basketball Association president, is confident the 16-team tournament would provide Malaysian basketball fans a chance to see Asia's budding talent in action.

"With China, Japan and Middle East countries taking part, you are assured of stiff competition and top-level basketball. I believe basketball fans here are in for a treat," he added.

Ten countries have confirmed participation so far, including host Malaysia.

They are China, Iran, Qatar, Taiwan, Kazakstan, Japan, India, Hong Kong and South Korea.

"Two South East Asian countries will join the 16-team tournament after a special qualifying tournament and two more from Central Asia/Middle East and another two from East Asia, will make up the rest of the participating teams," said Hoo.

Malaysia, by virtue of being host, will field a team and in the words of Hoo, "Do not expect much from the team".

"At best, we are good only for ninth or 10th placing. But the Malaysian Basketball Association (Maba) are hoping that the home crowd support will give the team a lift.

"In fact, the top three teams from this championship will qualify for the World U-18 championship to be held in Germany in 2010," he added.

-- BERNAMA

Vince

September 2nd, 2009, 09:05 PM

Hi Vince, just some updates for you. Currently Oakwood Residence at Danga Bay and KSL City are the latest highrise project in town.

IJM's Apartment at Taman Tasik (called "Lagenda") is almost done too.

Anyway the city is still lack of highrise projects. JB shall be able to do better. The town council shall work harder to improve the city's image in my opinion.

I did say in and around downtown. I would like to see this area better built-up. There should be more residential condos in the city centre area to encourage more people living there. Then the local malls would do better. Better supermarkets can then be opened downtown and perhaps a beautiful park built? At the moment, there is nothing like that planned at all! Danga Bay and Lagenda are projects that would encourage urban sprawl, causing more traffic congestions, road maintenance issues etc. And yes, the city council spent millions building the Jalan Wong Ah Fook pedestrian mall park. They have to keep maintaining it to make it look beautiful. Now it is just getting dirty and worn.

rizalhakim

September 3rd, 2009, 05:38 AM

Fairyland of bonsai trees and orchids
Story and photos by DESIREE TRESA GASPER

http://thestar.com.my/archives/2009/9/3/southneast/p1scarecrow.jpg

http://thestar.com.my/archives/2009/9/3/southneast/p6orchid.jpg
Amazing sight: A uniquely-shaped orchid.

JOHOR BARU: There was a photo-taking frenzy at the recent Johor Baru International Orchid and Bonsai Show as visitors were so amazed by the gorgeous orchids and bonsai trees that they could not stop snapping away with their cameras.

Landscape architecture student Nurfarhana Abd Aziz, 21, who came with her classmates, said she was impressed by the variety of plants and flowers.

“I like the way they used lighting, water features and other props to enhance the exhibits,” she said, adding that her favourite display was by the Pasir Gudang Municipal Council.

Housewife Liew Swee Ping, 26, said she loved flowers and found the exhibition interesting.

“I spend a lot of my time tending to my garden and I understand the amount of care needed to make flowers look healthy and beautiful.

http://thestar.com.my/archives/2009/9/3/southneast/p6bonsai.jpg
Close up: View of the intricate leaves of a bonsai plant.

She said the exhibition was a learning experience as she discovered many types of orchids and was awed by the uniqueness of the flowers.

“There are many hybrids of the flowers and they come in many shapes and sizes,” she said, adding that she might expand the orchid range in her garden.

For A. Leena, 23, the bonsai plants were a beautiful representation of living art.

“Since young, I have been amazed by the intricate shape of bonsai trees.

“They look fragile and difficult to handle. I am sure the plant’s beauty reflects the time and commitment invested by the owner,” she said, noting that each tree was unique.

http://thestar.com.my/archives/2009/9/3/southneast/p6hornbill.jpg
Outstanding: Exhibit by a team from Sarawak featuring a hornbill.

Johor Mentri Besar Datuk Abdul Ghani Othman, in launching the event, said he was happy that 11 countries participated in the show, which had more than 40 local exhibits featuring various themes and concepts.

http://thestar.com.my/archives/2009/9/3/southneast/p6tree.jpg
Big winner: This bozai tree clinched first place in the Large Category.

Featured were more than 20,000 cut orchids and 5,000 orchid and bonsai plants.

There were also orchid clinics, traditional dances, music performances and stalls selling orchids and gardening products.

http://thestar.com.my/archives/2009/9/3/southneast/p6students.jpg
Their favourite: Students Nurfarhana Abd Aziz, 21, (left), Musleha Ahmad, 21 (centre) and Siti Norhasyithah Zulkifli, 21, posing at a flower exhibit by Pasir Gudang Municipal Council.

James Foong

September 3rd, 2009, 04:14 PM

No progress pic...does not mean it is not yet start at the meanwhile :cheers:
Your mind is too simplistic to gauge the situation! Lebih2lagi mamat Vince was in JB...pegi tengok ngan mata dulu baru nak cakap... :) (oh jangan lupe ambil gambar!)

^^ well, i thought your wisdoms 101 hv something new to me, but it isnt. quite silly of you to see me in tht narrow perspective.

Earlier, sorry if you dont understand my words. What i mean is, besides Ceass had put some notes of updating here, is there progress pic from (Anyone) if possible beside notes, so tht we can see it?

nazrey

September 3rd, 2009, 07:23 PM

^^ well, i thought your wisdoms 101 hv something new to me, but it isnt. quite silly of you to see me in tht narrow perspective.

Earlier, sorry if you dont understand my words. What i mean is, besides Ceass had put some notes of updating here, is there progress pic from (Anyone) if possible beside notes, so tht we can see it?
Ternyata you are always rude to me I must say...never soft to talk in between!
Someone said "You have the right to remain silent, everything you say will be misquoted and used against you in the forum" ..saya baru faham! :cheers:

rizalhakim

September 4th, 2009, 05:31 AM

Unhappy over RM1 payoff
Chuah Bee Kim
2009/09/04

A GROUP of housebuyers in Johor Baru has alleged that their property developer was willing to pay only RM1 as compensation for the late completion of their houses.

http://www1.nst.com.my/JohorBuzz/Friday/Stories/20090904072024/insidepix1?display=small
Housebuyers voicing their dissatisfaction with the compensation offered by the developer for the late delivery of their homes.

Their housing project has been delayed for two years.

Abdul Razak Mohd Yusuf, 40, a representative of the housebuyers, claimed that the developer was not being responsible for the delay and did not show an understanding of the housebuyers' plight.

"It is shocking that the developer was only willing to pay RM1 as compensation for liquidated and ascertained damages for not delivering the houses within the period stipulated in the sales and purchase agreement," Razak alleged.

Another housebuyer, Ezad Daud, 44, who bought a double-storey terrace house under Phase 3A, claimed that he had to pay RM1,000 to the bank monthly eventhough his house was not completed.

The houses were sold between RM180,000 and RM200,000.

"Many housebuyers had to rent a place to stay for two years while waiting for their units to be completed," Ezad said.

He also claimed that the delay had caused some of the housebuyers to be blacklisted by the banks as they could not settle their monthly loan payments.

Ezad said the housebuyers come from all walks of life, which include civil servants, retirees and those from the middle-income group.

"We want the property developer to compensate us in accordance with the Housebuyers' Act," he said.

nazrey

September 5th, 2009, 02:55 AM

http://www.picamatic.com/show/2009/08/24/09/09/4841564_768x571.JPG

http://media-cdn.tripadvisor.com/media/photo-s/01/2a/b6/f5/old-bridge-tunnel-goes.jpg

nazrey

September 5th, 2009, 05:04 AM

From flickr

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2573/3796799002_fc6ba6060c_b.jpg

nazrey

September 6th, 2009, 08:58 AM

From flickr

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3097/3085586207_47af85c8d1_b.jpg

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/4/4027238_02c76d6f97_b.jpg

peromyvi

September 6th, 2009, 11:41 PM

When will JB sentral be completed? Is the old CIQ being demolish now?

nazrey

September 6th, 2009, 11:49 PM

When will JB sentral be completed? Is the old CIQ being demolish now?

>>>
http://www.skyscrapercity.com/showthread.php?t=179984&page=7

rizalhakim

September 7th, 2009, 10:17 AM

Aspiring racers find a perfect spot in Pasir Gudang
By AUSTIN CAMOENS

JOHOR BARU: Aspiring racers from Johor and Singapore have found a haven in Pasir Gudang where they can hone their driving skills safely and responsibly.

One of them is Ashween Gomez, 26, who has spent almost RM7,000 to equip his Proton Saga for circuit racing.

“I have rebuilt the engine, upgraded the brake system, added sports rims and tyres as well as a sports suspension,” he said.

http://thestar.com.my/archives/2009/9/7/southneast/se_16circuit.jpg
Adrenaline rush: Cars speeding around one of the circuit’s corners.

Gomez said he would not hesitate to spend money on this passion of his.

He started visiting the Johor Circuit two years ago, at first just to watch amateur racers compete. Then, since last year, he began taking part in the races.

“Driving on this track is very challenging as it is narrow and relatively bumpy.

“It keeps you on the edge of your seat,” he said, adding that racing here was affordable.

Another racing fan, Jonathan Goh, said the Johor Circuit was a dream come true for car lovers.

The 25-year-old from Singapore said that many car owners drove here to test their vehicles’ limits.

http://thestar.com.my/archives/2009/9/7/southneast/se_16revving.jpg
Revving away: Cars waiting at the starting line.

Car fans got to see highly-tuned cars that were good race machines, he added.

Besides regular racing known as grip racing, Goh enjoys drifting.

In drifting, the driver oversteers his car at high speed while attempting to maintain control of the vehicle.

“I frequent the drift circuit in Gelang Patah with my friends to practise our manoeuvres,” said Goh.

Johor Circuit public relations officer Avin Virick said the venue, which started operations in 1986, offered a safe and affordable place for racing.

“We have an in-house emergency centre and our staff is trained in medical emergencies,” said Virick.

The 3.86km circuit is open daily. Weekday charges are RM60 per hour for cars and RM35 per hour for motorcycles while the hourly fees on weekends are RM70 (cars) and RM50 (bikes).

Virick added that the track would hold track-day promotions every month where cars would be charged RM120 for three hours while motorcyclists paid RM80. The next track day is this Sunday.

For enquiries, visit www.johorcircuit.com.my or call 07-252 1313.

nazrey

September 8th, 2009, 03:22 AM

Johor to host international Under-16 Fiba tourney
Tuesday September 8, 2009 By AUSTIN CAMOENS

http://thestar.com.my/archives/2009/9/8/southneast/se_16hoo.jpg

Boosting basketball: Hoo (left) and Johor Basketball Association vice-
president Mok Chek Hau launching the Fiba Under-16 basketball
championship in Johor Baru recently.

JOHOR BARU: Sixteen teams from around Asia will sweat it out at the International Under-16 basketball championship in November.

Johor Basketball Association president Hoo Seong Chang said it was the second time that Johor was hosting an International Basketball Federation (Fiba) tournament. The last Fiba Asia tournament was held in the state 13 years ago, for the Under-18 category.

“The countries participating in this Under-16 championship include Iran, Qatar, China, Hong Kong, South Korea, Japan and India,” he said.

The tournament would be held from Nov 19 to 27 at the Johor Baru City Council Indoor Stadium, said Hoo after launching a four-colour logo for the championship recently.

At a press conference later, he said the red and blue in the logo were Johor’s state colours while green represented youth and yellow was the official Fiba colour.

“We will carry out the necessary upgrading and maintenance work to make sure the stadium is equipped to host the tournament,” he added.

Hoo, who is also State Tourism, Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs Committee chairman, said the Malaysian team of 18 players was currently undergoing training in Kuala Lumpur.

“We hope to see our national team win the tournament, but there are many strong teams in the competition.”

He said the tickets priced at RM5 per game would be available from Oct 15 at the tournament secretariat in Taman Pelangi.

Those who want to watch the whole tournament can opt for the season ticket priced at RM50.

For more information on the meet, call Yap at 019-750 0776 or Ang at 019-776 0860.

rizalhakim

September 8th, 2009, 07:43 AM

Expensive fare doesn’t sit well with passengers
By MOHD FARHAAN SHAH

JOHOR BARU: People in the city are complaining that the new taxi rates are too expensive.

ANWAR KARTH: The Government should have studied the matter before approving the new fares
Sherenna Dharmusha, 24, who regularly takes a taxi to work in Jalan Datuk Abdullah Tahir, said that taxi fares had become very expensive since the new meter system was introduced.

“I used to pay between RM8 and RM9 from my house in Bandar Baru Uda to my work place, but now it costs me RM12,” she said, adding that if she called for a cab, she had to pay an additional RM2.

Lorry driver Anwar Karth, 54, said that with the new rates taxi drivers were more willing to comply with the meter ruling as it benefitted them.

IZZUDDIN: They should not be charging passengers more if they do not provide better service.
“The Government should have studied the matter before approving the new fares as those who use taxis daily are badly affected.

Accountant Muhammad Izzuddin Zainal, 27, said that before the new rates were introduced, taxi drivers had been known to ask more from customers than what it would actually cost if the meter was used.

“The Government has granted what these taxi drivers wanted, so they should improve their service.

“They should not be charging passengers more if they do not provide better service.”

Izzuddin said that there had been occasions when taxi drivers refused to go to certain destinations, especially during peak hours.

“Some of them even smoke while driving, which is very annoying to passengers who are non-smokers,” he added.

Izzuddin said the Commercial Vehicle Licensing Board (CVLB) and the Road Transport Department (JPJ) should regularly check on taxis.

http://thestar.com.my/archives/2009/9/5/southneast/se_04taxi.jpg
LUCKY DRIVERS: Cabbies waiting for customers at a taxi stand in Jalan Wong Ah Fook.

“The agencies should look into passengers’ complaints seriously as taxis are public transport,” he said.

When contacted, CVLB chairman Datuk Halimah Mohd Sadique said that the decision to increase the rates was approved by the Cabinet. On taxi drivers who purposely chose to use routes with traffic jams since the fare increase, she said that passengers could tell the drivers their preferred routes.

“Customers can complain to CVLB if the taxi driver purposely use a route that is congested just to get more from the fare,” said Halimah.

nazrey

September 9th, 2009, 02:32 AM

More CCTV cameras to prevent crime in Johor Baru
Wednesday September 9, 2009

THE number of closed-circuit television (CCTV) cameras will be increased from 40 to 2,000 in an effort to boost security in the state capital, especially at Iskandar Malaysia.

Mentri Besar Datuk Abdul Ghani Othman said the CCTV cameras would be placed at various crime hot spots.

“Currently, the state has only 40 CCTV cameras and the added cameras will help in crime prevention,” he said.

Abdul Ghani said in addition to the surveillance cameras, Johor would also increase the number of police personnel, adding that 948 officers would join the force.

“We are also looking at building community policing posts at various residential areas statewide.

“At least 100 posts will be erected at housing areas to reduce the crime rate,” he added.

Abdul Ghani was replying to Datuk Baderi Dasuki (BN - Panti) who said the crime rate, especially snatch theft incidents, was rampant.

rizalhakim

September 9th, 2009, 05:52 AM

Where your comfort is their business
By Jassmine Shadiqe
2009/09/08
WHETHER you are traveling for business or leisure, check into Naza Talyya Hotel Johor Baru to enjoy food and accommodation that embody the spirit of warm hospitality.

http://www1.nst.com.my/JohorBuzz/Wednesday/Stories/20090908211023/insidepix1?display=small
Naza Talyya Hotel Johor Baru offers fantastic views of the city skyline and the Straits of Tebrau.

http://www1.nst.com.my/JohorBuzz/Wednesday/Stories/20090908211023/insidepix2?display=small
The hotel’s superior rooms are touted to be of five-star quality.

Naza Talyya Hotel in Jalan Tenteram, Tanjung Puteri, is located in the southern tip of Peninsular Malaysia.

Located well within the city's commercial and entertainment area, just about two kilometres away from the Customs, Immigration and Quarantine Complex, the business class hotel offers top-notch facilities, amenities and service at reasonable prices.

Each of its 134 rooms is comfortably furnished with standard modern hotel amenities, plus a generous supply of essential toiletries and coffee and tea making facilities.

The rooms are spacious and well laid out for a relaxing ambience.

Its superior room comes with either a king-sized bed or two single beds.

The room can easily accommodate three adults and if you are travelling with children, there is more than enough space for an extra bed.

Guest will enjoy sweeping views of the city skyline or Straits of Tebrau all the way to Singapore.

Dining options include local and Western cuisine at the hotel's Kafe Ria Coffee House.

The cafe has an a la carte as well as buffets for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Stays come with complimentary breakfasts served at Kafe Ria Coffee House.

Room service is available all day long for those too tired or lazy to get dressed for meals.

The hotel is, above all, a business hotel, hence its complete convention facilities.

The Astana Ballroom can accommodate up to 200 persons, and there are also three seminar rooms.

The fully-equipped business centre provides a comprehensive range of facilities and services including Wi-Fi to meet the needs of business executives.

The hotel is also located near shopping complexes and entertainment spots.

Guests can indulge in golf, visit Johor Zoo and Danga Bay, or just take a one-kilometre stroll to the Johor Baru International Ferry Terminal.

Until Sept 17, Naza Talyya Hotel is offering promotional rates for its rooms.

Its superior room is priced at RM130++ inclusive of one free breakfast buffet worth RM40, and its standard room is priced at RM98++.

rizalhakim

September 9th, 2009, 06:16 AM

Kadar sewa premis Larkin Sentral disemak
NUSAJAYA 8 Sept. - Kerajaan negeri akan menyemak kadar sewa premis perniagaan di Blok Pengangkutan Awam Larkin Sentral di Johor Bahru bagi membantu meringankan beban golongan peniaga kecil.

Pengerusi Jawatankuasa Kerajaan Tempatan, Perumahan, Kerja Raya dan Kemudahan Awam negeri, Datuk Ahmad Zahri Jamil berkata, ia bagi memastikan kerajaan negeri dan Johor Corporation (JCorp) yang menguruskan Larkin Sentral bersama-sama membantu golongan tersebut.

"Kerajaan negeri akan menyemak supaya JCorp tidak hanya mementingkan keuntungan semata-mata, sebaliknya lebih banyak membantu peniaga kecil yang menjalankan perniagaan di Larkin Sentral," katanya.

Beliau berkata demikian semasa menjawab soalan Adam Sumiru (BN- Tanjung Puteri) pada Persidangan Dewan Undangan Negeri (DUN) di Kota Iskandar di sini hari ini.

Ahmad Zahri berkata, pelbagai faktor perlu diambil kira termasuk peningkatan kadar sewaan sebanyak 25 peratus dalam tempoh empat tahun.

"JCorp perlu mengambil kira semua faktor dan membiarkan keuntungan mereka dikongsi bersama dengan peniaga kecil, ini pandangan saya.

"Mereka (JCorp) perlu melihat semula peranan penubuhannya yang diwujudkan untuk membantu peniaga kecil di negeri ini," katanya.

Beliau berkata, kenaikan kadar sewa itu seiring dengan pengubahsuaian ke atas kawasan Blok Terminal dengan kadar baru dikenakan setiap kali penyewa melakukan penyambungan sewa.

Setakat ini, sebanyak tiga fasa pengubahsuaian telah dilaksanakan ke atas Larkin Sentral yang mengandungi dua blok iaitu Blok Terminal Pengangkutan Awam dan Blok Pasar Awam.

Katanya, sebanyak RM3.7 juta dibelanjakan dalam pengubahsuaian fasa I bagi tempoh 2004 hingga 2007.

Jelasnya, sebaik diambil alih JCorp melalui anak syarikatnya, TPM Management Sdn. Bhd. (TPM Management) pada tahun lalu, Blok Terminal melalui pengubahsuaian fasa II dengan kos RM6.8 juta bagi membina bangunan tambahan di tingkat tiga termasuk membina Masjid An-Nur dan menaik taraf tempat letak kereta.

"Ketika ini, Larkin Sentral melalui pengubahsuaian fasa III membabitkan kos RM8.9 juta bermula tahun ini yang dijangka siap tahun depan membabitkan kerja menyediakan lif, ubah suai medan selera, menambah eskalator, membina jejantas dan memasang sistem litar kamera tertutup (CCTV).

"Pengubahsuaian fasa IV pula akan bermula 2011 serta dijangka siap pada 2013 membabitkan kerja menaik taraf bazar dan terminal, penyusunan semula platform dan keluar masuk bas supaya lebih tersusun dengan kos RM28 juta," katanya.

Ahmad Zahri berkata, kadar sewa premis di Blok Terminal daripada RM787 pada 2004 hingga 2005 dinaikkan kepada RM865 dan RM960 sebulan pada tahun berikutnya.

Katanya, enam bulan selepas mengambil alih pada 2008, TPM Management kadar sewa itu dinaikkan lagi kepada RM1,005 sebulan.

Bagaimanapun, setakat ini kadar sewa premis di Blok Pasar Awam masih belum dinaikkan dan ia antara RM244 dan RM396 sebulan tetapi semakan

rizalhakim

September 10th, 2009, 06:08 AM

Singaporeans flock to Larkin Hari Raya Bazaar

JOHOR BARU: The Hari Raya Bazaar at Larkin Central is a popular spot for festive shoppers, especially Singaporeans.

Many Singaporeans make the trip across the Causeway to the bazaar weeks before Hari Raya Aidilfitri. It offers a wide array of Hari Raya cookies and snacks.

Singaporean Mohd Ali Abd Manaf said that he brings his mother and other family members to the bazaar to buy cookies for Hari Raya.

“I will usually come to this bazaar about two weeks before Hari Raya as I don’t believe in last-minute shopping.

“I want to make sure the best cookies are still available,” he said, adding that his favourites include mini popia and pineapple tarts.

http://thestar.com.my/archives/2009/9/10/nation/n_10rayabazaar.jpg
Spoilt for choice: Shoppers buying cookies at the Hari Raya Bazaar in Johor Baru yesterday.

Singaporean housewife Fauziah Mohd Sultan, 52, said that she has been shopping at the bazaar for 10 years and was glad that the quality of cookies had been maintained.

“I have yet to find another place that sells good quality cookies and snacks.

“Shopping here has become something of a tradition for my family,” she said, citing kuih makmur and bahulu as her favourites.

rizalhakim

September 10th, 2009, 08:33 AM

new from Mayland
nice and cheap!!!
but Mayland??....hmmmmm!!

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3440/3906309980_c6dd782c7f_o.jpg

http://i49.photobucket.com/albums/f294/cchewhoong/Brochure-Page1.jpg

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http://i49.photobucket.com/albums/f294/cchewhoong/Brochure-Page5.jpg

http://i49.photobucket.com/albums/f294/cchewhoong/Brochure-Page6.jpg

http://i49.photobucket.com/albums/f294/cchewhoong/Brochure-Page7.jpg

http://i49.photobucket.com/albums/f294/cchewhoong/Brochure-Page8.jpg

http://i49.photobucket.com/albums/f294/cchewhoong/Brochure-Page9.jpg

LoveArki

September 10th, 2009, 08:53 AM

not impressive. Haha:nuts:

rizalhakim

September 11th, 2009, 04:36 AM

Johor wants more tourism investors in two districts
By ZAZALI MUSA

ULU TIRAM: Johor plans to attract more investors into the tourism industry of Kota Tinggi and Mersing as the two eastern districts are less developed compared with the other eight districts in the state.

Mentri Besar Datuk Abdul Ghani Othman said the two districts offered good potential in tourism-related investments, noting that they had natural tourism products such as white sandy beaches, river cruising, jungle trekking, mountain climbing and historic places.

“However, the main problem is the poor accessibility and motorists and holiday makers take longer to reach these areas by road,’’ he said yesterday at the opening of Phase One of the Senai-Pasir Gudang-Desaru Expressway.

The RM1.4bil expressway links Senai to Desaru and connects users to Pasir Gudang at the Tanjung Langsat industrial area via the Pasir Gudang interchange.

Ghani said the Johor government, Khazanah Nasional Bhd and Desaru Development Corp Sdn Bhd had formed a joint-venture company this year to attract investors to the eastern part of Johor.

He added that the opening of the expressway would help boost economic activities in the area and the company had identified a 809.37ha site along Desaru beach for development.

“When the expressway fully opens next year, it will only take 45 minutes to reach Desaru compared to two hours now (from Johor Baru),’’ he said.

The opening of Phase One involves a 50km stretch from Senai to Cahaya Baru in Masai with a connection to Pasir Gudang and reduces travelling time from one hour to 23 minutes.

The remaining 27km of the expressway from Cahaya Baru to Desaru will be opened by early 2010.

Ghani said the expressway, when fully opened, would boost tourism activities in Desaru, a popular holiday spot for the locals and Singaporeans in the early 1970s and mid-1980s.

Asked whether there could be a third bridge in the eastern part of Johor linking Malaysia and Singapore as proposed by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak, Ghani said it was possible.

He added that the bridge need not necessarily be located in Penggerang, and that it could be built elsewhere in south-east Johor.

Meanwhile, Tan Sri Hamdan Mohamad, a director of Senai-Desaru Expressway Bhd (SDEB), the concessionaire of the expressway, said the company would take 18 years to break even.

“We are looking at some 30,000 vehicles using the 50km stretch daily,’’ he said.

SDEB’s majority shareholder is Ranhill Bhd with a 65.6% stake, while Islamic Development Bank holds 29% equity.

rizalhakim

September 14th, 2009, 10:35 AM

pontian

Kompleks sukan RM20j dibina

PONTIAN 11 Sept. - Sebuah kompleks sukan bernilai RM20 juta akan dibina di Tanjung Piai bagi memberi kemudahan kepada orang ramai bersukan dan beriadah.

Timbalan Menteri Belia dan Sukan, Wee Jeck Seng berkata, ia akan dibina dalam tempoh terdekat ini sebagai tambahan kepada beberapa kemudahan sukan dengan yang terbaru ialah lima buah gelanggang futsal.

Menurutnya, ia perlu bagi memastikan orang ramai di kawasan itu khususnya golongan muda dapat bersukan dengan kemudahan yang lengkap.

"Tumpuan bukan sahaja kepada kemudahan sukan tetapi kemudahan asas lain kepada para penduduk di kawasan ini sentiasa diberi perhatian seperti balai raya, surau, jalan-jalan kampung dan sebagainya," katanya.

Beliau berkata demikian pada majlis berbuka puasa dan penyampaian sumbangan Ramadan bagi kawasan Parlimen Tanjung Piai di Pekan Nanas, di sini semalam.

Pada majlis tersebut, Jeck Seng yang juga Ahli Parlimen Tanjung Piai menyampaikan sumbangan kepada 105 orang golongan miskin, ibu-ibu tunggal, golongan kurang upaya.

Selain itu, beliau turut menyampaikan sumbangan kepada 70 buah surau dan 35 buah masjid dalam bentuk barangan makanan dan wang tunai bagi kegunaan sepanjang Ramadan kali ini.

Hadir sama ialah Ahli Dewan Undangan Negeri (ADUN) Pekan Nanas, Tang Nai Soon; Penghulu Mukim Jeram Batu/Pengkalan Raja, Md. Ilham Mahujan dan Ketua Pergerakan Wanita UMNO Bahagian Tanjung Piai, Normah Mohammad.

Tambah beliau, pihaknya sentiasa prihatin dan komited terhadap setiap permohonan atau permintaan oleh orang ramai bagi mendapatkan projek-projek kecil pembangunan dan sebagainya.

rizalhakim

September 15th, 2009, 04:49 AM

Unifiber secures RM92m contracts

SINGAPORE: United Fiber System Ltd’s (Unifiber) wholly owned subsidiary Sin Poh Lian Sdn Bhd has been awarded building contracts worth RM92.2mil from Niceyear Development Sdn Bhd in Johor Baru, it told Singapore Exchange yesterday.

The contracts awarded consist of two development projects at Taman Mount Austin and comprise 268 single-storey terrace houses, 588 double-storey terrace houses and 52 cluster houses. Construction is expected to begin next month and is scheduled to complete by September 2012.

“The project is in line with the group’s strategy to expand its presence in the construction industry in the region and is expected to contribute positively to the group,” Unifiber said.

The project is not expected to have any material impact on the results for the year ending Dec 31, 2009.

rizalhakim

September 15th, 2009, 05:45 AM

Facelift for Larkin bus terminal
By DESIREE TRESA GASPER and KC CHAN
Photo by ABDUL RAHMAN EMBONG

JOHOR BARU: The Larkin Bus Terminal’s massive RM46.6mil facelift is expected to be completed in four years time.

Local Government, Housing, Arts, Culture and Heritage Committee chairman Datuk Ahmad Zahri Jamil said the renovation was being carried out in phases.

“So far, two phases have been completed.

http://thestar.com.my/archives/2009/9/15/southneast/se_03newwing.jpg
New name: The new wing at the terminal which has been renamed Larkin Sentral

“Work on the third phase is ongoing now, involving the construction of a pedestrian bridge and new public toilets and installation of CCTV cameras,” he said.

It is expected to be completed by the year end.

The fourth phase, meanwhile, amounts to RM28mil. It will include additional bus platforms and a new systematic entry point for buses.

With the facelift, the terminal would be renamed Larkin Central and equipped with 63 new seats for passengers who are waiting for buses, Ahmad Zahri told the Johor state assembly here.

The comprehensive makeover for the bus terminal began in 2004 with general renovation work in the first phase which took three years.

The second phase included the construction of a three-storey building, a mosque and new parking lots.

Ahmad Zahri addressed the issue of constant rental increase by Johor Corporation, saying that he would look into the complaints from traders.

http://thestar.com.my/archives/2009/9/15/southneast/se_03buses.jpg
A major facelift: An aerial view of the terminal

“I admit that there has been an increase in rental every time the terminal is renovated.

“I will have a discussion with Johor Corporation to ask that they take into consideration the small-time traders when it comes to raising the rent,” he elaborated.

Osman Sapian (BN - Kempas) had earlier posed a question, explaining that many traders were complaining about the increasing rental cost and snatch thefts at the bus terminal.

In June, traders located on the third floor of the terminal had voiced concerns about losing business due to unfair competition by food vendors on the ground level of the complex.

According to them, the initial tenancy agreement did not permit any food outlet at the lower levels.

The traders at the terminal submitted a memorandum in July stating their dissatisfaction over the high rental.

The rental for outlets at the terminal had increased by 10% every two years. It was RM679 in 2003 but has since been increased to RM960.

rizalhakim

September 17th, 2009, 08:32 AM

Floating bookshop docks at Johor port
Peggy Loh
2009/09/17
FLOATING bookshop MV Doulos will make a call at the Port of Pasir Gudang from Sept 25 to Oct 6.

http://www1.nst.com.my/JohorBuzz/Thursday/Stories/20090917080742/insidepix1?display=small
The international crew of volunteers made up of 320 people from 50 countries in front of the ‘MV Doulos’.
Visitors will have a wide range of books to choose from in a book exhibition onboard the ship.

These include science, sport, hobbies, cookery, arts, religion, philosophy and many more family-related and children's books.

With over 6,000 titles in English and Bahasa Malaysia, the book exhibition will be opened by the wife of the Tunku Mahkota of Johor, Raja Zarith Sofiah, on Sept 25.

Operated by GBA Ships e.V, a non-profit charity organisation based in Germany, MV Doulos has visited about 600 ports in more than 100 countries for the last 31 years.

She is recognised by the Guinness World Records as the world's oldest ocean-going passenger ship.

Originally built in 1914 and systematically upgraded and maintained, she is only two years younger than the legendary RMS Titanic.

MV Doulos has been crossing oceans to build bridges between nations and promote knowledge.

This unique floating book exhibition presents a rare opportunity to see the MV Doulos up close and to meet the international crew of volunteers.

They are made up of 320 people from 50 countries, including three Malaysians.

The bookshop is open from 10.30am to 10pm from Tuesday to Saturday and from 2pm to 10pm on Sunday and Monday.

The "Discover Doulos" open day displays will be held from 3pm to 6pm on Sept 27 and Oct 4.

For more information, call 016-793 5684 or 016-720 4773 or email to doulos.pasirgudang@gbaships.org.

nazrey

September 19th, 2009, 01:18 AM

Danga City Mall Tressure Store

http://jbcool.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/08/danga-city-mall1.jpg

nazrey

September 19th, 2009, 01:20 AM

Floating bookshop docks at Johor port
Peggy Loh
2009/09/17
FLOATING bookshop MV Doulos will make a call at the Port of Pasir Gudang from Sept 25 to Oct 6.

http://www1.nst.com.my/JohorBuzz/Thursday/Stories/20090917080742/insidepix1?display=small

The international crew of volunteers made up of
320 people from 50 countries in front of the ‘MV Doulos’.

Visitors will have a wide range of books to choose from in a book exhibition onboard the ship.

These include science, sport, hobbies, cookery, arts, religion, philosophy and many more family-related and children's books.

With over 6,000 titles in English and Bahasa Malaysia, the book exhibition will be opened by the wife of the Tunku Mahkota of Johor, Raja Zarith Sofiah, on Sept 25.

Operated by GBA Ships e.V, a non-profit charity organisation based in Germany, MV Doulos has visited about 600 ports in more than 100 countries for the last 31 years.

She is recognised by the Guinness World Records as the world's oldest ocean-going passenger ship.

Originally built in 1914 and systematically upgraded and maintained, she is only two years younger than the legendary RMS Titanic.

MV Doulos has been crossing oceans to build bridges between nations and promote knowledge.

This unique floating book exhibition presents a rare opportunity to see the MV Doulos up close and to meet the international crew of volunteers.

They are made up of 320 people from 50 countries, including three Malaysians.

The bookshop is open from 10.30am to 10pm from Tuesday to Saturday and from 2pm to 10pm on Sunday and Monday.

The "Discover Doulos" open day displays will be held from 3pm to 6pm on Sept 27 and Oct 4.

For more information, call 016-793 5684 or 016-720 4773 or email to doulos.pasirgudang@gbaships.org.

Interesting!!!

coolman89

September 21st, 2009, 01:45 PM

Ikea sells Shah Alam warehouse for RM90m
By Vasantha Ganesan
vasantha@nstp.com.my
2009/09/10

The 560,000-sq-ft warehouse was sold to a Malaysian property fund as part of the Swedish company's plan to relocate its distribution network to China.
Swedish home furnishing giant Ikea has sold its warehouse in Shah Alam, Selangor, to a Malaysian property fund for about RM90 million.

The 560,000-sq-ft warehouse, which is located on a piece of land measuring 8.51ha, was sold as part of the furnishing company's plan to relocate its distribution network to China.

China is now the hub for Asia Pacific. Ikea moved out of Shah Alam about two months ago.

The sale of the warehouse, owned by Ikea Handel Sdn Bhd, in Section 26 Shah Alam, was handled by Jones Lang Wootton (JLW).

Sources told Business Times that the buyer is Pelaburan Hartanah Bumiputera Bhd (PHBB). JLW, however, declined to confirm this.

Ikea started operations at the premises in 1997. About five years ago, when business picked up it added an extension to the original building.

On advice from JLW, its exclusive marketing agent, the building was leased and only then sold, as this would make the property attractive to buyers. Executive director Rohan Padmanathan and vice-president Danial Gan of JLW were instrumental in sealing this deal.

The property was leased to IDS Logistics Servicer (Malaysia) Sdn Bhd for seven years with options to renew.

IDS Logistics is a member of the Integrated Distribution Services Group Ltd. The IDS group is in turn a member of the Li & Fung Group.

While Ikea's warehouse may have moved to China, Ikea's retail arm is expected to continue its investments in Malaysia.

In an interview with Business Times in April this year, Ikea Malaysia said it was scouting for suitable land in the densely populated Cheras and Ampang in Kuala Lumpur for a new store.

Ikea is keen to to have a 6ha site next to a highway, to provide both ample car park space and easy access. This is to have room for future expansion.

Industry experts estimate that a piece of land that size in that area, could cost Ikea as much as RM100 million.

Ikea has also confirmed the opening in Desa Tebrau Johor where it bought a piece of land for RM64 million.

The retailer first opened at the 1Utama shopping mall, but moved to its own site in Mutiara Damansara in 2003. It was reported that it had invested RM180 million in the store and land.

An additional RM120 million was pumped into the adjoining building of 45,000 sq ft where the Ikano Power Centre is set up.

Ikea is also keen on a store in Penang, after Johor and a second one in the Klang Valley.

rizalhakim

September 24th, 2009, 04:09 AM

Digital Valley To Open At Danga City Mall

JOHOR BAHARU, Sept 23 (Bernama) -- Smart and savvy computer and information technology (IT) enthusiasts can now shop with confidence and ease at the all-new Digital Valley at Danga City Mall here.

The dedicated space featuring more than 25 shops on the second floor of the mall will be the biggest one-stop IT centre here for computers, digital electronic products and accessories.

Due for opening in November, the centre will offer 2,787.09 square metres of shopping space exclusively dedicated for IT-based convenient stores and branded products.

" Digital Valley is the newest offing in our continuing drive to make Danga City Mall the preferred shopping destination for locals and visitors to Johor Baharu," said Danga City Mall Sdn Bhd managing director Gary Lee Seaton.

The mall, which opened in March 2008, is the biggest shopping complex here, with 500 retail lots spread over seven floors and with over 46,451.5 square metres of retail space. The occupancy rate now is nearly 90 per cent.

With free on-site parking for 2,000 cars and free Wifi Internet capability, the mall also boasts of unique features, including a children's one-stop education centre, nursery room, SPA & Fitness Centre, dance studio, art gallery and built-in KTM station.

Seaton said the Digital Valley has already attracted some of the biggest names in the IT retail industry, including the Lenovo concept store, Panasonic digital centre, Apple retail store and Acer Computers.

He said a host of other major retailers dealing in anything from desktop PCs to laptops, notebooks, mobile phones and other multi-media products and accessories will also be setting up shops in Digital Valley.

" These stores will have more than RM10 million worth of merchandise at any one time, making this the biggest one-stop IT centre in the south," he said.

Another special feature will be product service centres of established IT brands, making it a convenient destination for purchasers who require personalised after-sales service for goods purchased, he added.

-- BERNAMA

nazrey

September 29th, 2009, 11:59 AM

From flickr

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2444/3963901503_7d0d7739ff_b.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2539/3871121586_6579be9e8b_o.jpg

rizalhakim

September 30th, 2009, 07:10 AM

UTM Skudai destinasi pelancongan
Oleh Mohd Zin Ali
mdzin@nstp.com.my

JOHOR BAHRU: Mulai November ini, orang ramai boleh melancong ke Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) Skudai yang kini melancarkan konsep eko pelancongan kampus dengan memberi peluang pelancong bermalam di Rumah Tamu universiti berkenaan yang bakal dijenamakan semula sebagai Scholar's Inn.

Naib Canselornya, Prof Datuk Dr Zaini Ujang, berkata program pelancongan kampus yang pertama dilaksanakan di institusi pengajian tinggi awam (IPTA) di negara ini bertujuan menonjolkan UTM sebagai pusat budaya ilmu dan pelestarian alam sekitar.

Beliau berkata, pihaknya berharap orang ramai berkunjung ke UTM bukan saja untuk menuntut ilmu tetapi juga melancong bagi mendapatkan motivasi untuk meningkatkan tahap pendidikan masing-masing seperti dilaksanakan Universiti Oxford dan Cambridge di United Kingdom.

"Sehubungan itu, kami kini dalam proses mengubahsuai dan menaik taraf 40 bilik Rumah Tamu UTM sedia ada untuk dijadikan Scholar's Inn yang akan dapat digunakan sepenuhnya menjelang November depan.

"Setiap bilik di Scholar's Inn akan dinamakan dengan nama tokoh ilmuan terkenal seperti Zaaba, Raja Ali Haji, Pak Sako, Abdullah Munsyi, Ar-Raniri, Tun Sri Lanang dan Aristotles yang banyak memberi sumbangan dalam pelbagai bidang," katanya.

Dr Zaini berkata, apabila siap kelak, setiap bilik berkenaan akan diletakkan potret dan karya terkenal tokoh berkenaan untuk dijadikan bahan rujukan oleh mereka yang menginap di premis berkenaan.

”Orang ramai yang menginap di Scholar's Inn juga boleh melakukan pelbagai aktiviti rekreasi seperti memancing, berkuda serta menghayati keindahan flora dan fauna, yang disediakan dalam bentuk pakej,” katanya.

nazrey

October 1st, 2009, 04:37 PM

From flickr

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3012/3061444886_5340f4be7d.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3244/3060607855_61b31863be.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3006/3061446230_5b2cbe58b3.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3176/3060610379_0d3b457d54.jpg

LoveArki

October 2nd, 2009, 05:59 AM

nazrey

October 5th, 2009, 04:30 AM

Jalan Tan Hiok Nee In Johor Is Made Cultural Street
October 03, 2009 18:37 PM

JOHOR BAHARU, Oct 3 (Bernama) -- Johor government has agreed to make Jalan Tan Hiok Hee in the city into a cultural street to preserve the culture of the Chinese community there.

Menteri Besar Datuk Abdul Ghani Othman said the move was also to appreciate and in memory of Tan Hiok Nee, a successful pepper and clove merchant during the reign of Sultan Abu Bakar.

"In the process of transformation, we should not forsake historical elements so that they can be inherited by future generations," he said at the opening of a Chinese Heritage Museum here Saturday.

Jalan Tan Hiok Nee has been make a pedestrian mall and links the business area in Jalan Wong Ah Fook to Jalan Dato' Onn in front of the Johor Baharu City Council Building.

Meanwhile, president of the Johor Baharu Chinese Federation, Lim Ik Kim, said the street would be made a venue for various Chinese cultural activities.

-- BERNAMA

rizalhakim

October 5th, 2009, 04:34 AM

Pasir Gudang council moving to RM51m building
By AUSTIN CAMOENS

PASIR GUDANG: The Pasir Gudang Municipal Council (MPPG) will soon move to its own RM51mil building near Pasir Gudang Complex in the town centre.

MPPG president A. Rahim Nin said the council would be moving its departments in stages from Oct 15.

“We will move our offices to Menara Aqadah in phases beginning with the president’s office,” he said after the MPPG full council meeting held at the new building on Sept 30.

http://thestar.com.my/archives/2009/10/5/southneast/se_02towerblcok.jpg
Impressive: The tower block of the new Pasir Gudang Municipal Council building.
The council hoped to complete the move by the end of the year, he added.

“We will occupy eight floors, including the ground floor which will house counters for tax and compound payments,” said Rahim.

He said the initial plan was for a 16-storey building costing RM30mil, but after some deliberation, it was decided that a 20-storey building would be more suitable.

“We are planning to rent out the additional office floors.”

He said the new building would allow the council more room to expand to serve Pasir Gudang residents more effectively.

On a separate matter, Rahim said the council recently shut down an unlicensed recycling facility along the Masai-Kong Kong road.

He said the council had received complaints about open burning from residents in the surrounding area.

“They complained about air pollution as the open burning emitted pungent smoke,” he said.

MPPG stepped in and demolished the recycling facility in August as it was unlicensed, he added.

rizalhakim

October 5th, 2009, 06:27 AM

Nod for cultural street in JB
2009/10/05

By Ahmad Fairuz Othman

JOHOR BARU: The downtown area here may soon have its own "Cultural Street" and "Streets of Harmony".

Menteri Besar Datuk Abdul Ghani Othman has agreed to the proposal which was mooted by the Johor Baru Tiong Hua Federation.

He said the idea encapsulated the 1Malaysia concept introduced by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak.

The Cultural Street is Jalan Tan Hiok Nee, which was named after a prominent figure in the Chinese community here.

Tan was the second leader of the Ngee Heng kongsi or company of Johor Baru, and was responsible for turning it into a bustling organisation of kapitans, kangchus and revenue farms.

Ghani said the state government had agreed to transform the street, located barely a kilometre from the Causeway into a centre for culture and heritage.

The proposal includes having a permanent stage in the street to hold multicultural shows.

http://visitedasia.com/UserFiles/2009/8/17/New%20museum%20to%20spur%20Johor%20Baru.jpg

"The state government fully accepts the proposal to turn Jalan Tan Hiok Nee into a cultural street," said Ghani during the launch of the Chinese Heritage Museum at the former Tiong Hua Federation building in Jalan Ibrahim here on Saturday.

The three-storey RM1.2 million museum houses more than 300 artefacts and almost 1,000 documents related to the history of the Chinese community here.

Ghani lauded the Johor Baru Tiong Hua Federation for developing the museum over the past two years.

"It is a meaningful project as it aims to document and exhibit the history of Johor Baru.

"The history of the Chinese community in Johor spans more than 200 years."

Ghani said the setting up of the museum augured well with plans to transform the downtown area into a melting pot of commerce and culture.

During his speech, Ghani also spoke about the "Streets of Harmony" -- Jalan Gereja, Jalan Trus and Jalan Duke.

There are two churches, a Chinese temple, a Sikh gurdwara, Hindu temple, Indian Muslim mosque and a mosque in these streets.

Pulai member of parliament Datuk Jazlan Mohamed, who attended the museum's opening, expressed support for the "Cultural Street" and "Streets of Harmony".

"These locations will be a boon to tourism in Iskandar Malaysia."

tahoo

October 7th, 2009, 10:55 AM

Will this change in strategy affect the plans in JB?
Will JB outlet a hyper-mart? or warehouse?

Anyone knows more information about it?

Ikea sells Shah Alam warehouse for RM90m
By Vasantha Ganesan
vasantha@nstp.com.my
2009/09/10

The 560,000-sq-ft warehouse was sold to a Malaysian property fund as part of the Swedish company's plan to relocate its distribution network to China.
Swedish home furnishing giant Ikea has sold its warehouse in Shah Alam, Selangor, to a Malaysian property fund for about RM90 million.

The 560,000-sq-ft warehouse, which is located on a piece of land measuring 8.51ha, was sold as part of the furnishing company's plan to relocate its distribution network to China.

China is now the hub for Asia Pacific. Ikea moved out of Shah Alam about two months ago.

The sale of the warehouse, owned by Ikea Handel Sdn Bhd, in Section 26 Shah Alam, was handled by Jones Lang Wootton (JLW).

Sources told Business Times that the buyer is Pelaburan Hartanah Bumiputera Bhd (PHBB). JLW, however, declined to confirm this.

Ikea started operations at the premises in 1997. About five years ago, when business picked up it added an extension to the original building.

On advice from JLW, its exclusive marketing agent, the building was leased and only then sold, as this would make the property attractive to buyers. Executive director Rohan Padmanathan and vice-president Danial Gan of JLW were instrumental in sealing this deal.

The property was leased to IDS Logistics Servicer (Malaysia) Sdn Bhd for seven years with options to renew.

IDS Logistics is a member of the Integrated Distribution Services Group Ltd. The IDS group is in turn a member of the Li & Fung Group.

While Ikea's warehouse may have moved to China, Ikea's retail arm is expected to continue its investments in Malaysia.

In an interview with Business Times in April this year, Ikea Malaysia said it was scouting for suitable land in the densely populated Cheras and Ampang in Kuala Lumpur for a new store.

Ikea is keen to to have a 6ha site next to a highway, to provide both ample car park space and easy access. This is to have room for future expansion.

Industry experts estimate that a piece of land that size in that area, could cost Ikea as much as RM100 million.

Ikea has also confirmed the opening in Desa Tebrau Johor where it bought a piece of land for RM64 million.

The retailer first opened at the 1Utama shopping mall, but moved to its own site in Mutiara Damansara in 2003. It was reported that it had invested RM180 million in the store and land.

An additional RM120 million was pumped into the adjoining building of 45,000 sq ft where the Ikano Power Centre is set up.

Ikea is also keen on a store in Penang, after Johor and a second one in the Klang Valley.

tahoo

October 7th, 2009, 11:01 AM

Hi everyone, I will like to find out the rental demand in JB. Any good web site for me to find out what is the expected rent in JB?

rizalhakim

October 8th, 2009, 04:51 AM

http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/2/21/IBSJB.jpg

Royal building that will never lose its lustre
PEGGY LOH
2009/10/08

Being inside the Sultan Ibrahim Building is always an over-the-moon experience for PEGGY LOH. She cherishes the moment while covering a recent Ramadan aid presentation ceremony

http://www1.nst.com.my/JohorBuzz/Thursday/Stories/20091008101414/insidepix1?display=small
Facade of the main entrance and grand stairway.

http://www1.nst.com.my/JohorBuzz/Thursday/Stories/20091008101414/insidepix2?display=small
View through windows in its square tower.

http://www1.nst.com.my/JohorBuzz/Thursday/Stories/20091008101414/insidepix3?display=small
Cannon relics in the forecourt, at the top of the majestic central stairway.

http://www1.nst.com.my/JohorBuzz/Thursday/Stories/20091008101414/insidepix4?display=small
The Johor coat of arms with its motto written in Jawi.

FOR a long time, I stood in the central atrium of Johor's iconic Sultan Ibrahim Building, tilting my head back to view in awe the carvings on the tall concrete pillars, and intricate Islamic designs on the ceiling.

I inched closer to the throne made of granite and ran my fingertips across its smooth, cool surface, imagining how past royals graced this room to meet the people who were privileged to get an audience.

Set against an arched backdrop bearing the Johor coat of arms above, it's a majestic centrepiece in the throne room.

It was a week before Hari Raya Aidilfitri and I was there for the Johor government's annual presentation of Ramadan gifts to the poor and needy.

The event, usually held on a grand scale in the menteri besar's official residence called Saujana, was instead held in the Sultan Ibrahim Building this year.

While Menteri Besar Datuk Abdul Ghani Othman wanted to keep the event small to protect guests against the spread of influenza A, the gifts presented were, in contrast, generous and substantial.

The presentation ceremony was organised by the state government in cooperation with Juita (Johor State Assemblymen's Wives Welfare Association), the National Security Council of Johor and the Johor Islamic Council.

The presentation of cheques to representatives of various groups was held in the Tun Hussein Onn Room.

Juita sponsored gifts worth RM84,000. Recipients included army and police personnel who were wounded in the line of duty or their widows, visually impaired children, single mothers who have disabled children and 61 community-based rehabilitation centres in Johor.

One thousand packages of Raya cookies valued at RM30,000 were also presented to security personnel who were on duty during the festive season.

Ghani, on behalf of the Johor Islamic Council, also received last year's annual zakat from 13 companies totalling RM12,480,655.65 and distributed it to the hardcore poor in each of Johor's 10 districts.

In spite of the current economic climate, the sum contributed by the companies were substantial and Ghani expressed his appreciation for their compassion and generosity.

He reiterated that the state government is committed to eradicate poverty by 2010 and commended the armed forces for their sacrifices.

From my front-row seat in the auditorium, I had a clear view of the Johor emblem embossed on the lectern.

It carried the state motto written in Jawi: Kepada Allah Berserah, or "Unto Allah we resign".

Those who work in this building may have casually gone in and out countless times. But for me, I can count the number of times I've been inside on one hand.

I deeply treasure the rare privilege of visiting this imposing square tower designed with a distinctive Rumah Limas feature.

I remember climbing the final flight of stairs that wound up the tower and lingered for a long time at each window, soaking up the panoramic view of the Johor Straits and trying hard to identify landmark buildings in Johor Baru.

Records state that the Sultan Ibrahim Building was designed with a blend of Johor Malay, Saracen and colonial architecture by Palmer & Turner Architects.

It was built by local craftsmen under the architect's supervision.

After the groundbreaking ceremony by the then Tengku Mahkota Sultan Ismail, foundation works began on Nov 7, 1938.

Sultan Ibrahim laid the foundation stone on March 10, 1940, and construction of the building was completed in 1942.

To mark its opening as the state government office, a banquet was held at the Royal Palace on Nov 3, 1942, and it was then generally called the "government office".

Johor's most distinctive structure on Bukit Timbalan had withstood the test of time.

It survived the Japanese occupation where it was used as a store and fortress before the Japanese launched their final assault on Singapore in January 1942.

While its walls still bear scars left by the war, its unpainted concrete structure remains an impressive sight in the Johor Baru skyline.

On Aug 9, 1982, it was officially renamed as the Sultan Ibrahim Building by Sultan Iskandar.

Johor's first economic cash crop, the pepper gambir, is a consistent motif around the state emblems inside the building, including the ones at the entrance to the menteri besar's office and above the elevator doors.

Although the bulk of the Johor government offices had relocated to the new administrative centre in Kota Iskandar, the Sultan Ibrahim Building is still relevant as a state icon.

This is not only because of its historical value, but because it still houses several offices that provide public services.

The menteri besar's office and sections of the state secretariat will maintain offices both here and at Kota Iskandar, significantly creating a link between the past and present in a new chapter of history and development in Johor.

With its iconic facade for a beautiful backdrop and equipped with facilities to host prestigious events, the Sultan Ibrahim Building on Bukit Timbalan certainly continues to command a special place in Johor Baru's changing landscape.

rizalhakim

October 9th, 2009, 05:18 AM

Senai to Desaru toll charges from RM1.40 to RM15.20

JOHOR BARU: Motorists using the stretch of the Senai-Desaru Express*way opened to traffic will now have to pay toll of between RM1.40 and RM15.20 beginning today.

The first phase of the expressway between Senai and Pasir Gudang was open to public on Sept 10 and users have so far been travelling for free.

Malaysian Highway Authority director-general Datuk Ir Ismail Md Salleh said in a statement that the toll collection would begin at the three locations namely Senai, Ulu Tiram and Cahaya Baru.

Buses will enjoy a 50% toll reduction until Sept 14 next year, he said.

The RM1.3bil expressway, constructed by Senai-Desaru Expressway Berhad, is expected to cut travel time from Senai to Pasir Gudang from one hour to 23 minutes.

rizalhakim

October 9th, 2009, 05:41 AM

http://www1.nst.com.my/JohorBuzz/Friday/Stories/20091009085635/insidepix2?display=small
The seaview from the Zon Regency Hotel

http://www1.nst.com.my/JohorBuzz/Friday/Stories/20091009085635/Article

nazrey

October 12th, 2009, 10:10 PM

http://www1.nst.com.my/JohorBuzz/Friday/Stories/20091009085635/insidepix2?display=small
The seaview from the Zon Regency Hotel

http://www1.nst.com.my/JohorBuzz/Friday/Stories/20091009085635/Article

From flickr

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3367/3474439233_3caf34b193_b.jpg

rizalhakim

October 14th, 2009, 06:02 AM

Projects to boost tourism in Johor Baru

JOHOR BARU: The city council has drawn up projects to lure more local and foreign tourists to the city.

Mayor Mohd Jaffar Awang said the council would work with Iskandar Regional Development Authority to implement the projects.

“They include heritage tourism in the central business district and the promotion of food and culture at Rumah Johor in Hutan Bandar,” he said.

Mohd Jaffar also said that tourist spots would be upgraded.

“This includes having support facilities and human resources for activities,” he said, adding that the projects would be completed in December.

“I have directed the MBJB (Johor Baru City Council) tourism unit to come up with a book or brochure featuring restaurants or stalls that sell Johor delicacies,” he said.

Mohd Jaffar added that the authorities planned to organise a publicity blitz to promote the city next year.

On another issue, he said that proactive measures taken by the council averted a flash-flood crisis during Hari Raya, especially in low-lying areas.

This included informing residents about rising tides in Johor Straits, he said.

“We also opened a flood-action centre in Dataran Bandaraya during the period to provide early warnings and alert residents,” he said.

The council had carried out checks and maintenance work at all sea gates and pump houses to ensure everything was working, he added.

“We froze leave for our 21 workers during the period,” he saidd.

On the council’s Gerak Mesra community programme, Mohd Jaffar hoped that zones which had not held the programme would organise activities soon.

“The programme was launched in June and covered all 24 zones in MBJB.

“We have had the programme in Taman Pelangi, Taman Jaya, Serena Park and Taman Rinting,” he said, adding that it would be held in Taman Kebun Teh this month.

Among the activities are the cleaning of drains and billboards and tree-trimming.

khosim

October 16th, 2009, 02:45 AM

UDA cadang bina Plaza Angsana 2

JOHOR BAHRU 14 Okt. - Sebuah kompleks membeli-belah, Plaza Angsana 2, bernilai lebih RM100 juta akan dibina bersebelahan Plaza Angsana sedia ada di Tampoi di sini tidak lama lagi.

Pengarah Urusan UDA Holdings Berhad (UDA), Datuk Jaafar Abu Hassan berkata, Plaza Angsana 2 yang menampilkan ciri-ciri moden, lengkap dan sesuai untuk seisi keluarga itu akan dibina di tapak seluas 5.2 hektar.

''Pada waktu ini, UDA sedang menjalankan kajian pasaran dan dijangka dalam tempoh setahun atau setahun setengah lagi kerja-kerja pembinaan kompleks itu akan dimulakan,'' katanya.

Beliau berkata demikian kepada Utusan Malaysia pada majlis Rumah Terbuka Aidilfitri UDA Land (South) Sdn. Bhd. dan UDA Angsana Sdn. Bhd. di Plaza Angsana di sini hari ini.

Turut hadir Pengurus Besar UDA Land South, Arbain Paiman; Pengurus Besar Bahagian UDA Mall, Salamah Ismail dan Ketua Pegawai Operasi UDA Angsana, Ainul Adnan Ibrahim.

Pada majlis tersebut seramai 78 anak-anak yatim dari tiga sekolah di sekitar daerah ini diraikan dan diberikan sumbangan Aidilfitri sebanyak RM100 seorang.

Jaafar berkata, selepas kerja-kerja pembinaan dimulakan, Plaza Angsana 2 dijangka akan siap dalam tempoh kurang daripada 24 bulan.

Menurutnya, Plaza Angsana 2 yang merupakan bangunan bertingkat dijangka mempunyai daya tarikan tersendiri termasuk kemungkinan dibina taman tema air untuk para pelanggan.

Menurutnya, ia merupakan antara kelainan berbanding pusat membeli belah lain disamping mempunyai kedai dan premis perniagaan menjual pelbagai barangan dan perkhidmatan serba lengkap untuk memenuhi setiap keperluan pelanggan.

''Bagi kami apa yang pelanggan hendak maka itulah yang mustahak," jelasnya.

Selain itu, menurutnya, perbincangan juga akan diadakan dengan beberapa penyewa utama dan syarikat pasar raya besar seperti Carrefour, Tesco dan sebagainya untuk turut membuka perniagaan di Plaza Angsana 2.

Jaafar memberitahu, keadaan ekonomi negara yang semakin baik dan permintaan pelanggan yang menggalakkan terhadap Plaza Angsana sedia ada adalah antara faktor untuk Plaza Angsana 2 dibina.

''Di Plaza Angsana 2, para pelanggan boleh pergi membeli belah dari pagi hingga ke malam dengan selesa kerana ia amat lengkap dan sesuai untuk semua," katanya.

Beliau yakin Plaza Angsana 2 itu turut mencatatkan nilai jualan dan keuntungan menggalakkan sebagaimana diperoleh oleh Plaza Angsana sedia ada.

Katanya, ini kerana pasaran di Johor Bahru adalah berbeza dengan lokasi lain dari segi kuasa beli dengan ditambah oleh limpahan para pelanggan dari Singapura.

rizalhakim

October 20th, 2009, 05:28 AM

Motorists see red over high toll rates
BY AUSTIN CAMOENS

JOHOR BARU: Motorists on the new Senai-Desaru Expressway (SDE) have expressed dismay over the road quality and the expensive toll.

Security guard Amin Senan, 47, said that most people were still choosing to use the untolled roads because the highway was not only expensive, it was also bumpy.

“It is an uncomfortable drive,” he said.

http://thestar.com.my/archives/2009/10/20/southneast/se_03tollgate.jpg
Slowing down: A truck reaching the toll booth at the Senai Desaru Expressway. Motorists complain of the uneven road surface along several sections of the highway.

He added that presently, it was mostly lorries that used the highway which provided a quicker alternative route to Pasir Gudang.

He also hoped that the toll rates would be reduced to make the highway more affordable for motorists.

Chinayah Lechimannan, 60, echoed Amin’s views, saying that the highway was being used more by lorries and commercial vehicles than private cars.

The father of four from Kampung Oren said that there should have been more quality control during its construction.

“It is too bumpy and uneven for daily usage,” he said, adding that he hoped the problem would be rectified soon.

Law student S. Shashi, 23, said that although the highway made commuting between Senai and Ulu Tiram more convenient, it was not affordable.

“I have no doubt that the highway will cut down commuting time, but the toll rates have to be reduced,” he said.

He also believed that the highway’s usage would increase once the remaining 27km of the expressway from Cahaya Baru to Desaru was opened early next year.

The RM1.4bil expressway links Senai to Desaru in the eastern part of Johor and connects users to Pasir Gudang at the Tanjung Langsat industrial area via the Pasir Gudang interchange.

Only the 50km stretch from Senai to Cahaya Baru with a connection to Pasir Gudang is operational now. The Layang-Layang Rest & Recreational site is expected to open by December.

The first phase of the expressway between Senai and Pasir Gudang was open to public on Sept 10 and users were travelling for free for a month. The toll was imposed beginning Oct 9.

The rate on SDE for Class 1 (private cars) is 15sen per kilometre, a sen more than the rate charged by PLUS Expressways Bhd which operates the North-South Highway. Car owners using SDE pay between RM3.70 from Senai to Ulu Tiram, a distance of 24km, and RM7.60 for the furthest distance from Senai to Cahaya Baru (see accompanying table).

http://thestar.com.my/archives/2009/10/20/southneast/se_03tollChart.jpg

SDE chief executive officer Mustaza Salim said that a road roughness index was conducted on the highway about three months ago.

“When we conducted the index in July, we discovered several sections of the highway that were in poor condition,” he said, adding that those sections had already been repaired and resurfaced.

Mustaza said that the highway would be inspected and maintained twice yearly, adding that he would look into the complaints about the road quality.

However, he would not comment on the issue of expensive toll.

Motorists with complaints about SDE can contact its hotline at 07-861 2222.

nazrey

October 27th, 2009, 06:46 PM

From flickr

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2493/4028923935_67387f1ea2_o.jpg

nazrey

October 27th, 2009, 06:48 PM

From flickr

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2541/4028812155_bec628099f_o.jpg

nazrey

October 27th, 2009, 06:49 PM

From flickr

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2629/4027814067_e853aeef61_o.jpg

nazrey

October 27th, 2009, 06:49 PM

From flickr

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3272/4041164095_933f6f98ee_b.jpg

nazrey

October 27th, 2009, 06:54 PM

From flickr

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2552/3821702099_4990bcd0f4_b.jpg

nazrey

November 11th, 2009, 06:41 AM

From flickr

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2542/4090636617_4e82a90d32_b.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2765/4090635753_fd7cd91a2c_b.jpg

rizalhakim

December 1st, 2009, 06:55 AM

Lotus to help abandoned project bloom again

http://lotusdesaru.com/1.jpg
http://lotusdesaru.com/

DESARU: An eight-year abandoned project — which was supposed to be the largest resort in Johor with 2,000 rooms — will be revived at a cost of RM50mil.

Formerly known as Impiana Beach Resort, the refurbished resort will be called Lotus Desaru Beach Resort and is expected to be opened by next month.

It will be the only resort in the popular holiday area with a water theme park.

Lotus Corporation chief operating officer Datuk Ramalingam Pillai said his company took over the resort last year.

“It took us more than a year to make the resort what it is today,” he said.

Ramalingam added that the huge resort also featured three swimming pools.

“We hope to lure more tourists especially from Singapore,” he said, adding that the opening of the new Senai Desaru Highway would also help develop the area.

On the activities for potential tourists, Ramalingam said these included jet skiing, banana boat rides, snorkelling, fishing and kayaking.

He added that holidaymakers could also enjoy other activities like 4x4 adventures, light aircraft flying lessons and golfing in the area. The resort offers more than 2,000 rooms at rates between RM160 and RM736 per nite.

nazrey

December 2nd, 2009, 06:34 PM

From flickr

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2481/4108352290_76eb9af95c_b.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2542/4090636617_4e82a90d32_b.jpg

rizalhakim

December 3rd, 2009, 05:23 AM

Property demand in Johor Baru improves in H2
By ZAZALI MUSA

JOHOR BARU: The property market here, like in other parts of the country, is regaining momentum after experiencing a slowdown almost a year ago following the global economic recession.

According to Dynasty View Sdn Bhd general manager Wong Kuen Kong, demand for residential property in Johor Baru has improved in the second half year and “with the signs of a global economic recovery, we can expect a better year ahead.”

Wong was speaking to StarBiz at the launch of 58 double-storey Deanna III terrace houses at Taman Seri Austin near here by the Johor Baru City Council corporate and public relations director Abd Rahman Abdullah.

The four-bedroom and three-bathroom houses with a built-up area of 196.39 sq m in a gated and guarded precinct are priced from RM286,800. He said July’s launch of 122 units of Deanna II double-storey terrace houses priced from RM300,048 was already 80% taken up.

Wong Kuen Kong (left) and Abd Rahman Abdullah at the Deanna III showhouse

Wong said demand for houses priced from RM250,000 and below RM300,000 in Johor Baru was relatively good and the company, a unit of United Malayan Land Bhd, planned to launch more of such houses next year.

He said the company would only launch high-end properties comprising bungalows and semi-detached houses in 2011 when the economy was expected to have fully recovered.

“The Johor Baru property market is now becoming more consumer-driven and apart from design and quality finished products, buyers are also looking at location,” said Wong.

He said Taman Seri Austin’s location in the Tebrau growth corridor, one of the current hotspots for property development in Johor Baru, augured well for the company.

The housing scheme on 202.34ha site was launched in 2005 and is now 25% developed with 1,300 units of residential and commercial properties, of which 90% has been sold.

Wong said upon completion within the next eight years, the project would have 5,700 properties and 30,000 residents and generate RM1.2bil in gross development value.

nazrey

December 3rd, 2009, 08:08 AM

From flickr

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2545/4111643429_23ba20684c_b.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2525/4114856480_97fc8d143c_b.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2648/4112580088_4d840f0d31_b.jpg

JB Citizens (+_+)

December 7th, 2009, 03:41 PM

http://img163.imageshack.us/img163/2606/dsc03274r.jpg (http://img163.imageshack.us/i/dsc03274r.jpg/) http://img163.imageshack.us/img163/dsc03274r.jpg/1/w1024.png (http://g.imageshack.us/img163/dsc03274r.jpg/1/)

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nazrey

December 8th, 2009, 07:02 AM

JB street level
From flickr

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3480/3712342731_719685f985_b.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3556/3771371637_d58e6da06d_b.jpg

nazrey

December 8th, 2009, 07:12 AM

From flickr

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2447/4059682577_8f703b3dc0_o.jpg

nazrey

December 8th, 2009, 07:16 AM

From flickr

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1069/3165853477_273d507972_o.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3112/3165853467_eda7fb243b_o.jpg

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1343/3165853473_319986f956_o.jpg

rizalhakim

December 9th, 2009, 09:57 AM

JB citizens...
do u have any idea wat hapen to kebun teh megamall???

JB Citizens (+_+)

December 9th, 2009, 12:58 PM

At the moment, only shop houses being build there.... no sign of a mall + condo construction yet....

nazrey

December 10th, 2009, 06:15 AM

SP Setia eyeing more land in JB
Thursday December 10, 2009
By ZAZALI MUSA

JOHOR BARU: SP Setia Bhd is eyeing more land in the Johor Baru district for future development projects in view of the good long-term business prospect, said president and chief executive officer Tan Sri Liew Kee Sin.

To date, the company has 607ha left for development from four projects in Johor Baru, namely Bukit Indah and Setia Eco Gardens in the Nusajaya Corridor, Setia Indah in the Tebrau Growth Corridor and Setia Tropika in Kempas, according to Liew.

“The remaining land here will keep us busy for the next three to five years and we are looking to add 607ha for future projects,’’ he said yesterday.

Liew said Johor’s contribution to SP Setia’s earnings was significant and for the financial year ended Oct 31, RM500mil of its RM1.6bil turnover came from Johor.

He was speaking at the official opening of the drive-thru Maybank and Starbucks Coffee outlet as well as the KFC and Pizza Hut outlets at Setia Tropika’s central business district (CBD) by Johor Baru Datuk Bandar Mohd Jaafar Awang.

Maybank offers the first-drive thru banking services in Johor and the second private banking here after its outfit at the Johor Baru City Square Office Tower and is connected to Malaysia’s first Starbucks drive-thru.

Liew said a three-star hotel by a local operator and serviced apartment blocks would be coming up in Setia Tropika’s CBD next year, occupying 0.40ha and 1.21ha respectively.

“We are going to sign the agreements with the respective parties in the first quarter of 2010 but at this point, I cannot give more details on the two projects,’’ he said.

Liew said the company did not plan to build a stand-alone shopping centre in any of its ongoing projects in Johor Baru as there were already too many shopping centres here.

He said it would instead focus on the niche markets such as drive-thru outlets, hotels and serviced apartments as demand for such products and services in Johor Baru was not fully tapped.

Liew said that for instance, Johor Baru could offer good hotel accommodation alternative for those attending seminars, conferences or business meetings in Singapore as the rates here were much lower.

He said the company would also be looking at Sabah and Sarawak and the contract to build a state-of-the-art transportation hub Aeropod @ Tanjung Aru in Kota Kinabalu would be a starting point.

JB Citizens (+_+)

December 10th, 2009, 12:08 PM

http://img693.imageshack.us/img693/2366/dsc03305.jpg (http://img693.imageshack.us/i/dsc03305.jpg/) http://img693.imageshack.us/img693/dsc03305.jpg/1/w1024.png (http://g.imageshack.us/img693/dsc03305.jpg/1/)

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:drunk::drunk::drunk::drunk::drunk::drunk::drunk::drunk::drunk::drunk:

JB Citizens (+_+)

December 10th, 2009, 12:34 PM

http://img706.imageshack.us/img706/586/dsc03313k.jpg (http://img706.imageshack.us/i/dsc03313k.jpg/) http://img706.imageshack.us/img706/dsc03313k.jpg/1/w1024.png (http://g.imageshack.us/img706/dsc03313k.jpg/1/)

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rizalhakim

December 11th, 2009, 08:41 AM

SP Setia eyeing more land in JB
By ZAZALI MUSA

JOHOR BARU: SP Setia Bhd is eyeing more land in the Johor Baru district for future development projects in view of the good long-term business prospect, said president and chief executive officer Tan Sri Liew Kee Sin.

To date, the company has 607ha left for development from four projects in Johor Baru, namely Bukit Indah and Setia Eco Gardens in the Nusajaya Corridor, Setia Indah in the Tebrau Growth Corridor and Setia Tropika in Kempas, according to Liew.

“The remaining land here will keep us busy for the next three to five years and we are looking to add 607ha for future projects,’’ he said yesterday.

Liew said Johor’s contribution to SP Setia’s earnings was significant and for the financial year ended Oct 31, RM500mil of its RM1.6bil turnover came from Johor.

A Starbucks employee (left) showing Tan Sri Liew Kee Sin (right), Mohd Jaafar Awang (second from left) and Berjaya Starbucks Coffee Co Sdn Bhd executive director Datuk Francis Lee how he makes coffee at the opening of the drive-thru outlet at Setia Tropika.

He was speaking at the official opening of the drive-thru Maybank and Starbucks Coffee outlet as well as the KFC and Pizza Hut outlets at Setia Tropika’s central business district (CBD) by Johor Baru Datuk Bandar Mohd Jaafar Awang.

Maybank offers the first-drive thru banking services in Johor and the second private banking here after its outfit at the Johor Baru City Square Office Tower and is connected to Malaysia’s first Starbucks drive-thru.

Liew said a three-star hotel by a local operator and serviced apartment blocks would be coming up in Setia Tropika’s CBD next year, occupying 0.40ha and 1.21ha respectively.

“We are going to sign the agreements with the respective parties in the first quarter of 2010 but at this point, I cannot give more details on the two projects,’’ he said.

Liew said the company did not plan to build a stand-alone shopping centre in any of its ongoing projects in Johor Baru as there were already too many shopping centres here.

He said it would instead focus on the niche markets such as drive-thru outlets, hotels and serviced apartments as demand for such products and services in Johor Baru was not fully tapped.

Liew said that for instance, Johor Baru could offer good hotel accommodation alternative for those attending seminars, conferences or business meetings in Singapore as the rates here were much lower.

He said the company would also be looking at Sabah and Sarawak and the contract to build a state-of-the-art transportation hub Aeropod @ Tanjung Aru in Kota Kinabalu would be a starting point.

nazrey

December 22nd, 2009, 04:20 PM

TMJ POLO CLUB Johor Bahru.
From flickr

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3148/2834733447_f8d7eff311_o.jpg

nazrey

January 11th, 2010, 02:42 PM

RM3m projects end flood woes in JB suburbs
By FARIK ZOLKEPLI Monday January 11, 2010

JOHOR BARU: Residents and businesses in Stulang Darat and Taman Seri Tebrau will soon see an end to their flash-flood problem when two flood mitigation projects costing over RM3mil are completed.

Stulang assemblyman Mok Chek Hau said the first project involving the widening of drains and the building of detention ponds in Jalan Kuning, Taman Pelangi, was completed in December last year.

“It will bring an end to flash floods that often occur near Jalan Biru and Jalan Stulang Darat.

“The project was undertaken by Iskandar Regional Development Authority,” he said.

Mok said the project started in April last year after numerous complaints from residents.

In the second project, drains at Jalan Kris 2 in Taman Seri Tebrau will be widened and three tidal flats built for better water flow.

“The tidal flats will prevent water from the river flowing into drains during high tide.

“Rainwater in the drains will be channelled into bigger drains and released through the tidal flats during low tide,” he said.

Mok said the Johor Baru City Council was carrying out the second project and expected to be completed by next month.

He sais that flash floods would be a thing of the past with the completion of the two projects.

nazrey

January 18th, 2010, 02:12 PM

From http://www.aseannewsnetwork.com

http://www.aseannewsnetwork.com/AseanPhotos/plog-content/thumbs/johor-bahru-photo-library/johor-bahru-photography/large/324-img_4555.JPG

nazrey

January 24th, 2010, 02:44 PM

From flickr

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2697/4206256602_dcf982cd99_b.jpg

nazrey

January 24th, 2010, 03:01 PM

From flickr

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4061/4205459295_727a73dca6_b.jpg

nazrey

January 24th, 2010, 03:13 PM

From flickr

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2705/4114093597_b079df6825_b.jpg

nazrey

January 24th, 2010, 03:14 PM

From flickr

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3325/3624211305_151eaa316e_b.jpg

nazrey

January 24th, 2010, 03:21 PM

From flickr

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2455/3611040494_45cc1b3f12_b.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3386/3611033226_6905db3573_b.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3649/3610240395_09deac30e4_b.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3597/3610212263_4e8ee911c2_b.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2456/3611020314_3bb5c4bd35_b.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3270/3611037288_8b91ceb910_b.jpg

SHAH FIRDAUS

January 29th, 2010, 10:43 AM

Finding the missing link in the Causeway
Syed Umar Ariff
2010/01/14

For years, commuters travelling between Johor and Singapore have been driven to distraction by the traffic congestion on the bridge that could no longer accommodate the increased traffic. Syed Umar Ariff finds out what is being done to ease the situation

http://www1.nst.com.my/JohorBuzz/Friday/Stories/20100114204434/insidepix1?display=small
Bumper-to-bumper traffic moving at a snail’s pace from the Causeway to the CIQ complex.

http://www1.nst.com.my/JohorBuzz/Friday/Stories/20100114204434/insidepix2?display=small
The Causeway was constructed 87 years ago.
.
http://www1.nst.com.my/JohorBuzz/Friday/Stories/20100114204434/insidepix3?display=small
The CIQ complex on the first day of its opening.

THE Causeway linking Johor Baru and Singapore is more than a landmark -- it is a sign of the bilateral ties between Malaysia and the republic.

However, the link is severely marred by the massive traffic jams of more than 135,000 motorists commuting daily through it.

The lanes are now inadequate lanes for the increased number of vehicles.

The congestion is also more marked on the Malaysian side as the old Causeway checkpoint complex's lack of facilities was said to worsen the jam.

With the opening of the new Customs, Immigration and Quarantine Complex (CIQ), the Sultan Iskandar Building on Dec 16, 2008, traffic flow has somewhat improved as the complex is equipped with modern facilities to deal with the rush of commuters.

But congestion is now taking place at the new CIQ itself, and many are attributing the problem to the cancellation of the Scenic Bridge project in 2006 -- a new bridge that was supposed to replace the 87-year-old Causeway.

The new bridge was designed to be connected to the Sultan Iskandar Building, with more lanes for a bigger capacity for traffic.

However, plans are afoot to build another lane to ease congestion at the complex.

Works Minister Datuk Shaziman Abu Mansor had announced that the new lane would be a ramp leading to the new eastern dispersal link on the Johor side.

It is due to be completed by March 8 next year.

Shaziman said once the new lane was completed, there would be three lanes for cars to enter Johor Baru after the customs checkpoint.

Several routes, called Medium-Term Link (MTL), will also be completed by the end of next year.

"The work is 47 per cent complete. The MTL costs RM253 million," said Shaziman.

The 1km-link has a dual carriageway of four lanes that tapers into three lanes upon entry at the Causeway.

The CIQ complex was launched by Sultan Iskandar of Johor.

In his speech, he said the state was fortunate to have such a building that served as a main entry point into the country.

"The building is a landmark in Johor's history. Hopefully, it will provide better amenities for the people," said Sultan Iskandar.

The largest CIQ complex in the country, the RM1.3 billion project houses 21 federal and state government agencies, as well as private firms.

It is the transit point for more than nine million people travelling between Malaysia and Singapore each year.

i think they should build the bengkok bridge...forget what singapore has to say...it's within our right to build it....the traffic jam is very bad at peak hour...

SHAH FIRDAUS

February 4th, 2010, 09:36 AM

From flickr
by Agnieszka Wetton

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2751/4327924856_cf2bb33e25_o.jpg

i think the thistle used to be the hyatt
http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4013/4327194019_a1b0a4b034_o.jpg

SHAH FIRDAUS

February 10th, 2010, 07:27 AM

CMP Awards Land Reclamation Work Of Lido Boulevard To Jan De Nul Group

JOHOR BAHARU, Feb 10 (Bernama) -- Central Malaysian Properties Sdn Bhd (CMP), developer of the RM2.7 billion Lido Boulevard project, has awarded land reclamation package of the project to Jan De Nul Group, one of the top international dredging contractors Wednesday.

Lido Boulevard is to be developed along a 2.4km stretch of the strategically-located Tebrau Straits.

Land reclamation is the first phase of development of the project, stretching from the abandoned Lot 1 shopping mall to the Harbour Master's office.

Reclamation work will commence next month and is expected to be fully completed by end-2011, said CMP in a statement.

Jan De Nul Group's prestigious international dredging and reclamation projects are Palm Island Dubai, construction of waste water treatment plant in Brussels North, Europe's largest, Brussels' Zaventem Airport Terminal and phase four of Singapore's Jurong Island reclamation.

Vince

February 10th, 2010, 09:19 AM

skybird

February 10th, 2010, 11:36 AM

hi guys i invite u all to visit kelantan...variety of foods and places...

nazrey

February 14th, 2010, 10:47 AM

nazrey

February 14th, 2010, 11:01 AM

From flickr

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4037/4342417803_9ecc4151d2_b.jpg

nazrey

February 14th, 2010, 12:55 PM

JB will be modernised, says Johor MB
Published: Sunday February 14, 2010 MYT 3:39:00 PM
http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2010/2/14/nation/20100214154223&sec=nation

JOHOR BARU: The city of Johor Baru will be modernised based on the feedback of the local associations and business chambers, says Johor Mentri Besar Datuk Abdul Ghani Othman.

He said the government’s plans for the transformation would incorporate historical elements as well.

“We must not allow the city to be left behind” he said in his speech before launching the Chinese New Year celebrations organised by the Johor Baru Tiong Hua Association here Sunday.

Abdul Ghani said the feedback from the various businesses and associations like the Johor Baru Tiong Hua Association was important to the plans to transform the city.

In his Lunar New Year address, Abdul Ghani reminded the people not to be influenced by those who wanted to destroy the unity and harmony among the diverse races and religions in the country.

“The efforts of such parasites, who foster hate must be rejected thoroughly. They are only doing so for selfish goals, without considering the importance of unity.”

Abdul Ghani said he was confident that Malaysians, especially Johoreans, had the maturity and wisdom to foster understanding and unity regardless of race or religion as part of the 1Malaysia concept.

Meanwhile, Johor Baru Tiong Hua association president Lim Ik Kim praised the state government for their efforts in developing the country.

He also gave special praise to the state police led by Deputy Comm Datuk Mohd Mokhtar Mohd Shariff.

“Wayside robberies such as snatch theft have gone down and I salute the police for their diligence and sacrifice,” he said, adding he felt safer with the increased police presence in the city.

He agreed with DCP Mohd Mokhtar that the best weapon to curb crime was public cooperation with the police.

Several hundreds of people people attended the celebration held at Wisma Tiong Hua Sunday.

Among the dignitaries who attended were Johor MCA deputy chairman Tan Kok Hong, DCP Mohd Mokhtar, state secretary Datuk Abdul Latiff Yusof, and Johor state assemblymen.

nazrey

February 21st, 2010, 07:13 AM

Kota Tani Complex For JB
February 20, 2010 14:40 PM

JOHOR BAHARU, Feb 20 (Bernama) -- The Federal Agricultural Marketing Authority (Fama) will open a Kota Tani Complex here so that famers can market their produce directly to consumers.

Its chairman Datuk Paduka Badruddin Amiruldin said phase one of the pasar tani complex on a 20 hectare site in Jalan Taruka, Larkin will operate next month.

"Kota Tani will help reduce farmers worry with competition from hypermarkets and also attract tourists," he said when launching the karavan tani (mobile farmers' market) project here on Saturday.

Badruddin said there was a proposal to open the complex at night to accommodate consumers after office hours.

The other Kota Tani complexes are in Langkawi, Kedah and Jerantut, Pahang.

State Exco for Agriculture and Agro-Based Industry Abdul Aziz Kaprawi was confident that karavan tani would be welcomed by consumers as fresh farm produce would be brought to their doorsteps.

-- BERNAMA

SHAH FIRDAUS

February 25th, 2010, 12:30 AM

tambak johor official opening back in 1923

http://imgboot.com/images/rockyroad80/dsc0116perasmianpembukaantambakjohorjohorbahrujohormalaysia.jpg (http://www.imgboot.com/image.php?u=rockyroad80&i=dsc0116perasmianpembukaantambakjohorjohorbahrujohormalaysia.jpg)

http://imgboot.com/images/rockyroad80/dsc0117tambakjohor.jpg (http://www.imgboot.com/image.php?u=rockyroad80&i=dsc0117tambakjohor.jpg)

nazrey

February 27th, 2010, 02:19 PM

From flickr

http://img202.imageshack.us/img202/8431/37467922.jpg

nazrey

February 27th, 2010, 02:59 PM

---

nazrey

February 27th, 2010, 03:00 PM

JB is changing!!! :cheers:
From flickr

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3436/3367046093_fbfba41a45_b.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3558/3367037233_c3f4771003_b.jpg

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4062/4357663027_5d4409816a_b.jpg

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4067/4358421960_6862e56851_b.jpg

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4026/4358468502_ca30a55a06_b.jpg

SHAH FIRDAUS

February 27th, 2010, 06:24 PM

From flickr
by mileaque

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2787/4389385353_e9ea5f7b1f_b.jpg

SHAH FIRDAUS

February 28th, 2010, 10:27 PM

From flickr
by azmeen

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2706/4393541657_e1186becd0_o.jpg

SHAH FIRDAUS

March 2nd, 2010, 01:50 AM

From flickr
by gretchette

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4055/4398095184_97212a2645_o.jpg

rizalhakim

March 3rd, 2010, 05:55 AM

http://www.utusan.com.my/pix/2010/0303/Utusan_Malaysia/Johor/wj_01.1.jpg
Banyak bangunan terbengkalai

http://www.utusan.com.my/utusan/info.asp?y=2010&dt=0303&pub=Utusan_Malaysia&sec=Johor&pg=wj_01.htm

JBCCCI bina bangunan baru
http://www.utusan.com.my/utusan/info.asp?y=2010&dt=0303&pub=Utusan_Malaysia&sec=Johor&pg=wj_05.htm

nazrey

March 3rd, 2010, 06:38 AM

http://img202.imageshack.us/img202/8431/37467922.jpg

Hotel in Johor Baru spending RM25m on renovations
By MOHD FARHAAN SHAH Wednesday March 3, 2010
http://thestar.com.my/metro/story.asp?file=/2010/3/3/southneast/5625876&sec=southneast

http://www.malaysiahoteltour.com/hotel/malaysia_hotel/johor_hotel/grand_bluewave/images/hotel.jpg

JOHOR BARU: Grand BlueWave Hotel here is expected to spend RM25mil on renovations and refurbishment. Its general manager Long Cheow Siong said the hotel recorded a 70% occupancy rate with 30% of its customers being corporate guests.

“We expect an 80% jump in occupancy when our renovation is completed this year,” he said.

This is first major refurbishment since the hotel opened in 1997.

The renovation was being carried out in phases as the hotel was still in operation, said Long.

“The first phase involves work on the rooms on levels eight to 19 while the second phase will convert the 19 family suites into 57 studios units.

“Third phase is the construction of seven function halls and an alfresco dining area as well as the swimming pool’s upgrading,” he said.

“The last phase is the refurbishment the reception area, lobby, Orient Coffee House, the function hall on our 20th floor and the conversion of Bongo Pub into a food and beverage outlet.

“The project started in September last year and the first phase is expected to be completed next month. The second phase took off in November and is expected to be done by May.”

The final two phases began early this year and will finish by end of the year.

The project will increase the number of rooms from 184 to 222 and add six banquet halls to the present three.

Hotel guests would enjoy complimentary high-speed broadband services and live updates on the traffic situation on the causeway, added Long.

The hotel has a promotion on room rates ending on June 30.

Studio rooms are priced at RM148 nett, executive suite with city view is RM178 nett while sea-view executive suite is RM188 nett.

nazrey

March 4th, 2010, 02:11 PM

http://img32.picoodle.com/img/img32/3/12/19/f_82m_aefdeb4.jpg

Grand BlueWave Hotel
From flickr

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1360/1407472109_0aabe5d643_b.jpg

SHAH FIRDAUS

March 8th, 2010, 02:18 AM

‘Build bridge to replace Causeway’
By LOURDES CHARLES and NELSON BENJAMIN

newsdesk@thestar.com.my

JOHOR BARU: A bridge should replace the Causeway to boost connectivity between Malaysia and Singapore, said Johor ruler Sultan Ibrahim Ibni Almarhum Sultan Iskandar.

He said he was willing to be the mediator between both countries to resolve some of the issues including the bridge project, supply of water to the island republic or even extending Singapore’s Mass Railway Transit into Johor Baru.

“I do not have a problem with Singapore. We can see each other any time. I think some of the issues between Johor and Singapore can be resolved over a cup of tea,” he said.

He hoped that Johor would be consulted in the development of projects in the state in future.

“It is pointless for a person from another state to decide what is good or not good for Johor.:lol:(referring to pak lah perhaps?)

“It must be Johor that decides with the blessing of the Federal Government.

“You must understand Johor’s sentiments,” Sultan Ibrahim told The Star in an exclusive interview, adding that it was his responsibility to look after the state and people.

“The congestion is bad on both sides of the Causeway.

“We need to improve the public transportation system.

“Why can’t we have a bridge and remove the old Causeway?” asked Sultan Ibrahim.

He noted that between 80,000 and 120,000 people used the Causeway each day.

He said a bridge would benefit both countries as it could allow for the movement of small vessels like ferries.

Sultan Ibrahim, who acknowledged that a delegation from Singapore including Minister Mentor Lee Kuan Yew had paid him a courtesy call recently, reminded the republic that whatever it proposed must be a win-win situation.

“It must be a one-for-one kind of deal. No one should be on the losing end,” he said, adding that he was against the building of a third link into Singapore.

Sultan Ibrahim also suggested that an environmental impact survey be done before the implementation of any project.

“Look at the Second Link. It used to be a white elephant as people did not want to use it.

“Now, with the development in the area under Iskandar Malaysia, people are using it but it is still only running at 40% capacity,” he pointed out.

In 2006, Malaysia – under then Prime Minister Tun Abdullah Ahmad Badawi – scrapped plans to build a crooked “scenic bridge” to replace the 80-year-old Causeway.

The project was the brainchild of former Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad and the Government forked out an additional hundreds of millions of ringgit for compensation and also to build an alternative route to the Customs, Immigration and Quarantine complex in Bukit Chagar due to the cancellation.

SHAH FIRDAUS

March 9th, 2010, 03:32 PM

Kulim To Dispose Menara Ansar For RM105 Mln

KUALA LUMPUR, March 9 (Bernama) -- Diversified palm oil group Kulim (Malaysia) Bhd plans to dispose its investment property, Menara Ansar, in Johor Baharu for RM105 million.

The divestment will be satisfied part cash with the company set to receive RM63 million, said managing director Ahamad Mohamad in statement on Tuesday.

The remainder will be via the issuance of 42.9 million new units of Al-Aqar KPJ Real Estate Investment Trust (REIT) at an issuance price of RM0.98 per unit.

Ahamad said Kulim had opted to dispose its investment in Menara Ansar as it would allow the group to unlock the value of its non-core assets as well as realise its investment in the property.

"The divestment will allow us to utilise the proceeds for repayment of borrowing, which currently stands at RM1.7 billion, and lower our gearing from 0.33 times to 0.32 times," he said.

On the Al-Aqar REIT, which is the world's first listed Islamic REIT and Asia's first healthcare REIT, Ahamad said it would be a good investment for the group as it has been providing stable and respectable dividends for the last two years.

As at Dec 31, 2009, Al-Aqar has an existing fund size of 518.37 million units with current assets totalling RM49.81 million and a real estate portfolio of RM961.5 million.

Kulim has accepted the offer to dispose Menara Ansar from AmanahRaya Trustees Bhd, which is the trustee of Al-Aqar REIT.

The transaction is scheduled to be completed by the third quarter this year.

Menara Ansar, built on 9,739 square metres of freehold land, is a 21-storey office space with a three-level basement car park. To date, it has an occupancy rate of 92 per cent.

-- BERNAMA

SHAH FIRDAUS

March 9th, 2010, 03:34 PM

Menara Ansar

http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/7/73/Menara_Ansarr.JPG

SHAH FIRDAUS

March 9th, 2010, 03:45 PM

Kulim accepts JCorp offer to lease land in Johor Bahru
By Lam Jian Wyn of theedgeproperty.com
Tuesday, 09 March 2010 20:31

KUALA LUMPUR: Kulim (Malaysia) Bhd has accepted the offer from Johor Corp (JCorp) for the lease of two parcels of land measuring a total of 20,296 sq ft in Johor Bahru for a lease consideration of RM5 million on March 9, the former announced on Bursa Malaysia on the same day.

The two parcels of land comprise Parcel A, which measures 16,121 sq ft, and Parcel B, which measures 4,175 sq ft. A pedestrian mall is planned on Parcel A while Parcel B will be the site for ingress and egress facilities for Menara Ansar.

According to the announcement, the tenure length is 73 years expiring on Aug 4, 2082, with a renewal option for up to another 90 years, subject to further terms to be agreed upon. The lease shall be renewed at up to 30-year intervals.

The sum of RM5 million is payable upon acceptance of the offer, said Kulim.

JCorp is deemed interested in the proposed lease arrangement as it is a major shareholder of Kulim, with direct and indirect interests at 52.01% as of Dec 31, 2009.

Meanwhile, Kulim directors Tan Sri Datuk Muhammad Ali Hashim, Ahamad Mohamad, Datin Paduka Siti Sa'adiah Sh Bakir, Jamaludin Md Ali, Kamaruzzaman Abu Kassim and Rozan Mohd Sa'at are deemed interested in the arrangement by virtue of their positions as senior management in JCorp

nazrey

March 9th, 2010, 06:59 PM

From flickr

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2455/3611040494_45cc1b3f12_b.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3386/3611033226_6905db3573_b.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3270/3611037288_8b91ceb910_b.jpg

Kulim To Dispose Menara Ansar For RM105 Mln
March 09, 2010 20:58 PM

KUALA LUMPUR, March 9 (Bernama) -- Diversified palm oil group Kulim (Malaysia) Bhd plans to dispose its investment property, Menara Ansar, in Johor Baharu for RM105 million.

The divestment will be satisfied part cash with the company set to receive RM63 million, said managing director Ahamad Mohamad in statement on Tuesday.

The remainder will be via the issuance of 42.9 million new units of Al-Aqar KPJ Real Estate Investment Trust (REIT) at an issuance price of RM0.98 per unit.

Ahamad said Kulim had opted to dispose its investment in Menara Ansar as it would allow the group to unlock the value of its non-core assets as well as realise its investment in the property.

"The divestment will allow us to utilise the proceeds for repayment of borrowing, which currently stands at RM1.7 billion, and lower our gearing from 0.33 times to 0.32 times," he said.

On the Al-Aqar REIT, which is the world's first listed Islamic REIT and Asia's first healthcare REIT, Ahamad said it would be a good investment for the group as it has been providing stable and respectable dividends for the last two years.

As at Dec 31, 2009, Al-Aqar has an existing fund size of 518.37 million units with current assets totalling RM49.81 million and a real estate portfolio of RM961.5 million.

Kulim has accepted the offer to dispose Menara Ansar from AmanahRaya Trustees Bhd, which is the trustee of Al-Aqar REIT.

The transaction is scheduled to be completed by the third quarter this year.

Menara Ansar, built on 9,739 square metres of freehold land, is a 21-storey office space with a three-level basement car park. To date, it has an occupancy rate of 92 per cent.

-- BERNAMA

SHAH FIRDAUS

March 13th, 2010, 01:15 PM

http://i254.photobucket.com/albums/hh87/darrtd/Malling%20at%20Johor%20Bahru%20in%20Malaysia%202010-02-28/DSC09807.jpg

http://i254.photobucket.com/albums/hh87/darrtd/Malling%20at%20Johor%20Bahru%20in%20Malaysia%202010-02-28/DSC09811.jpg

nazrey

March 16th, 2010, 08:18 AM

Phillip Mutual launches first branch in JB
Tuesday March 16, 2010

JOHOR BARU: Phillip Mutual Berhad hopes to lure investors with the opening the first Phillip Investment Centre (PIC) in the country here recently.

PhillipCapital Group Malaysia managing director Andy Lim said the opening of the branch marked an important milestone for the company as it continued to enhance its retail investors and independent financial planners.

“Phillip Mutual offers the widest selection of unit trust funds in Malaysia, with over 200 funds from 20 fund houses.

“The company was established in Singapore 35 years ago and branched to Kuala Lumpur eight years ago,” he said.

Lim was speaking to reporters after the launch in Taman Molek here recently.

“Currently, more than 70% of independent financial planners in Malaysia already use our wealth-management platform,” he said.

Before the centre’s opening, many Johoreans went across the causeway to open investment accounts with companies there.

“We anticipate an influx of investors now that PIC is fully operational,” he said, adding that another four such centres would be launched this year.

Lim said that PIC would act as a platform to bring investors and financial planners closer to their investment goals.

He said that more investment activities would be held at PIC to better serve clients and financial planners in the southern region.

Meanwhile, PhillipCapital Malaysia executive chairman Datin Nona Salleh said that PIC was set up to have a physical presence for investors who preferred to deal with a person face to face rather than online. She said there were eight PICs in Singapore set up by Phillip Securities Pte Ltd, adding that she was confident that PhillipCapital Malaysia would create more PICs in Malaysia.

nazrey

March 18th, 2010, 07:13 AM

Chance for JB folks to voice ideas, concerns
By MOHD FARHAAN SHAH Thursday March 18, 2010

http://thestar.com.my/archives/2010/3/18/southneast/p3Zahri.jpg

Peoplefriendly: Ahmad Zahri (centre) launching the web portal while MPJBT
president Md Fuzi Ahmad Shahimi (left) looks on in Johor Baru recently.

JOHOR BARU: The Central Johor Baru Municipal Council (MPJBT) launched a web portal that will enable the public to voice their ideas and concerns.

Johor Local Government, Housing, Arts, Culture and Heritage Committee chairman Datuk Ahmad Zahri Jamil said the website (www.jkp.gov.my) was an interactive multimedia site that was easy to use.

“It will enable MPJBT, the council members and members of the public to interact with one another.

“MPJBT is the first local authority in the state to use such an application,” he told pressmen after launching the website at Pulai Spring Resort here.

Ahmad Zahri added that it enabled the public to leave comments or constructive criticism against MPJBT.

“Every remark made at the website will become a tool for MPJBT to know what needs to be fixed,” he said while urging the public to use the website.

He said the website would help boost MPJBT’s service.

“Currently, we have only one moderator working normal hours to manage the website.

“If it becomes popular, we will hire more moderators,” he said.

“The public can register at the website, and if they have any complaints, there is a link to the MPJBT complaints unit,” he said.

xtremesportx

March 21st, 2010, 08:40 AM

The http://www.jkp.gov.my website is intuitive enough but there is no English version on it.

Not all Malaysians can read or understand Bahasa Melayu. People still prefer to use english in forums for discussions worldwide.

daeng_jal

March 21st, 2010, 11:50 AM

^^
too bad there weren't paying attention in school:)
now cannot read JKR website

nazrey

April 6th, 2010, 03:21 PM

From flickr

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4065/4475419840_20bb901470.jpg

dengilo

April 7th, 2010, 05:47 AM

So the caltex is gone once and for all!

World 2 World

April 7th, 2010, 08:16 AM

i think it is still there, U can see from d pic^^

LoveArki

April 7th, 2010, 11:15 AM

Yes, that is the NEW Caltex petrol station... :nuts:

Vince

April 7th, 2010, 10:50 PM

From flickr

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4065/4475419840_20bb901470.jpg

Anybody knows why the traffic jam is still so bad despite the fact that a lot of traffic had been diverted to the new CIQ?

dengilo

April 9th, 2010, 05:15 AM

nazrey

May 13th, 2010, 02:24 PM

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4035/4529724463_3354c33b8c_b.jpg

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JB Citizens (+_+)

May 13th, 2010, 06:36 PM

Alamak what the hack are they thinkinglah not only its dangerous i think it just dont belong there anymore once and for all may be years ago it was ok but not nowlah.Hello MPJB something it not right here.

Correction... "MBJB"... Not MPJB... HELLO.... "Answer the phone please..."

Someone needs to talk to MBJB immediately... Lol :baeh3:

nazrey

May 19th, 2010, 07:56 AM

Senibong Cove
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2470/3863710167_db55356129_b.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2621/3863709831_7575b022e4_b.jpg

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Aussies to develop RM1.7bil waterfront project in Johor
By DESIREE TRESA GASPER Wednesday May 19, 2010
http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2010/5/19/nation/6291974&sec=nation

JOHOR BARU: The state Go vernment is confident of more foreign development following the recent entry of an Australian developer who is investing RM1.7bil in the state’s integrated waterfront development project.

Johor Mentri Besar Datuk Abdul Ghani Othman said this was a positive sign as it was the first time the Australian developer, Walker Cor poration, was entering the local property market.

“The investment of RM1.7bil by the corporation proves the strong confidence these developers have in our local property market,” he said during the official launch of the Senibong Cove waterfront development project in Permas Jaya here recently.

He said that with the completion of the project, other developers would also flock to the state.

Abdul Ghani added that the corporation was also looking at other future projects in the state but was currently focused on the Senibong Cove project, scheduled to be completed in 2012.

“These houses are meant for the high-end market and it is a positive sign that many house buyers are locals,” he said, adding that the Eastern Dispersal Link (EDL) would also help open up the “eastern corridor” in the state.

Walker Corporation executive chairman Lang Walker, who was at the opening, said: “While a lot of Malaysian investors are flocking to Australia, we see a lot of potential in the state and that is the main reason why we have decided to start this project here.”

He also added that the completion of the EDL and the recovering economy made it the perfect time for housing developers to start projects locally.

Senibong Cove is an integrated waterfront development project featuring cluster houses, semi-detached houses, bungalows, apartments, luxurious apartments and terrace houses, with prices ranging from RM290,000 to RM1.8mil each.

Located at the Lunchoo River on the Straits of Johor, it will be the first waterfront integrated housing development project in the state.

nazrey

May 20th, 2010, 01:41 PM

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2680/4181137522_06883c6f67_b.jpg

nazrey

May 31st, 2010, 11:14 AM

Scenic Bridge Project Should Be Pursued - Dr M
May 29, 2010 18:50 PM

JOHOR BAHARU, May 29 (Bernama) -- Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad is still of the opinion that the scenic bridge project to replace the causeway connecting Malaysia and Singapore should be pursued.

The former prime minister said it would help ease traffic congestion between Johor Baharu and the island.

"Yes," was his brief answer when asked by reporters whether he felt the project, which was cancelled when his predecessor Tun Abdullah Ahmad Badawi was prime minister, should be continued.

Earlier, he had attended a leadership talk and launch of the MAYC Veterans Club here.

Besides easing traffic congestion between Johor Baharu and Singapore, the bridge would have also facilitated free flow of water in the Tebrau Strait besides allowing ships heading to east coast ports of the Asian continent to bypass Singapore.

On political matters, Dr Mahathir said he believed that the Barisan Nasional still had time to attract back support from the Chinese community before the next general election, which must be called at the latest by 2013.

"If the community feels it is treated fairly, I think they will return to support the BN," he said.

Support for BN from the community dropped in the 2008 general election and in the last two by-elections, Hulu Selangor in April and Sibu earlier this month, there appeared to be a further erosion of support from Chinese voters.

On proposed subsidy cuts by the government, Dr Mahathir said:"I think we must accept that the prices are going up and we cannot always expect when we buy, prices will stay at the same level."

However, he cautioned that the cuts should be done gradually so as not to burden the people.

-- BERNAMA

daeng_jal

May 31st, 2010, 03:04 PM

pic from milenium tower last friday...why in the world that a nursing college can have such lovely view. i don't know
will try to go to nusajaya and MBS by next month

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4041/4654242528_a301df9604.jpg

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nazrey

June 7th, 2010, 08:01 AM

JB city council taken to task for inaction
Monday June 7, 2010
http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2010/6/7/nation/6414813&sec=nation

JOHOR BARU: The Johor Baru City Council has been taken to task for failing to act on public complaints despite numerous calls from local representatives.

Johor Baru MCA division chief Datuk Dr Wee Ka Siong (pic) said the council must take drastic action in dealing with the people’s complaints or face the wrath of the Malaysian Anti Corruption Commission (MACC).

“We feel disappointed over the lack of cooperation by the city council in taking action on complaints.

“For example, the residents in Taman Century have been complaining about excessive noise from nearby nightclubs, but they (city council) have not taken action,” he told newsmen after the division’s annual general meeting, which was launched by MCA president Datuk Seri Dr Chua Soi Lek.

Dr Wee said the people in Taman Century wanted the council to ensure that the clubs kept out the noise but to no avail.

“Lack of action by the city council reflects badly on the Barisan Nasional government.

“If the mayor does not take action on public complaints, then the party has to report the matter to the MACC,” he said.

He added that he and Johor Baru MP Datuk Shahrir Samad had visited places which the people had complained about.

“The people’s concerns must be heard and acted upon quickly. The cooperation of the council is paramount towards ensuring the people’s support for Barisan here,” he said.

On the AGM, Dr Wee said that the party had grown more stable under the leadership of Dr Chua.

“The Chinese community is happy that the party is voicing their concerns on various matters,” he said.

nazrey

June 7th, 2010, 08:14 AM

Mall to have one-stop IT centre by end of 2010
By YEE XIANG YUN Monday June 7, 2010
http://thestar.com.my/metro/story.asp?file=/2010/6/7/southneast/6286546&sec=southneast

JOHOR BARU: Danga City Mall is set to welcome visitors to the state’s biggest one-stop IT centre here by end of the year.

Spanning three floors, the IT haven is an addition to the mall’s existing Digital Valley which caters to all your technology needs.

Danga City Mall managing director Gary Lee Seaton said the centre was expected to be fully open by end of the year.

“Due to the demand of IT and computer enthusiasts, we have decided to open three more floors in the mall to make it a truly one-stop IT centre.

“With these additional floors, we will have four floors dedicated to the full range of IT products and services,” he said.

He explained that the lower ground floor, level 1 and level 4 would undergo major changes in the three-phased project.

The first phase was opened last November while the second part would be ready in August, he said.

“Level 1 will be for cellphones, cameras and game gadgets while level 4 will serve as the IT distribution and service centre.

“LG will take a section to showcase an extensive selection of electrical products,” he added.

Besides the product displays, the mall will hold roadshows, product demonstrations, new launches and seminars for IT enthusiasts.

“There will be fairs featuring broadband, computer hardware, cellphones, LCD monitors, television sets and hi-fi equipment apart from computer promotions.

“We will be organising theme-based fairs every week,” he said, citing as example the recent three-day IT fair that proved to be a success.

“There were more than 80 exhibitors, including popular brands such as Panasonic, Apple, HO, Sony and Lenovo.

“The fair attracted more than 100,000 visitors over three days,” he added.

cooolboi

June 9th, 2010, 08:06 PM

You know what? JB is really underdeveloped like third world country.

dengilo

June 10th, 2010, 12:02 AM

:lol:Wow we did not know that:nuts:

SHAH FIRDAUS

June 10th, 2010, 12:33 AM

i stayed at the grand blue wave last weekend and went makan2 at the danga bay...the city is not that bad and has so many potential to be great.....

Vince

June 10th, 2010, 05:09 AM

If you observe this thread, or others about JB, you would notice that the city is pretty dead. Not much in terms of development. This city does have great potential, being so close to Singapore and all, but time and money have been squandered....

arodzi

June 10th, 2010, 11:32 PM

That's the downside of being close to an exciting and vibrant city as people will always compare JB to the more glamorous Spore, which JB could never ever compete with. It's the same situation with Jersey City in New Jersey and New York City (Manhattan). Sandwiched between Philiadelphia and NYC, Jersey City will always be in the shadow of these two 'celebrated' cities.

Cheers from Brooklyn

nazrey

June 11th, 2010, 11:07 AM

redstone

June 11th, 2010, 12:11 PM

Anybody knows why the traffic jam is still so bad despite the fact that a lot of traffic had been diverted to the new CIQ?

Cos the roads there are in a terrible mess. Bad design, esp the TWO LANE driveway to the Causeway...

masaiboy

June 12th, 2010, 01:49 PM

there are 2 essential area JB needs to improve
1. Infrastructure: The traffic condition is killing commoners like me. Precious time is wasted everyday and this translates to huge money.

2. Security: It is not as bad as some media reported, but it can't be considered good as well. The authority needs to face the reality to double the effort to minimize the crime rate here.

Vince

June 13th, 2010, 08:14 AM

Johor Baru set for major changes
Friday June 11, 2010
http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2010/6/11/nation/6450617&sec=nation

JOHOR is set to see various development projects under the 10th Malaysia Plan, said Mentri Besar Datuk Abdul Ghani Othman

He said among the main projects outlined under the five-year plan, which was tabled in Parliament yesterday, were the RM1.8bil Johor Baru city transformation plan, the RM8bil double tracking rail project from Gemas to Johor Baru, and the Bus Rapid Transit system in Iskandar Malaysia.

Abdul Ghani said the transformation plan within the city centre would include cleaning up Sungai Segget at a cost of RM200mil, and improving infrastructure and the waterways.

“The money for the project will come from the Federal Government’s Facilitating Fund. The cleaning up of Sungai Segget is seen as a catalyst towards other elements in the plan,” he told reporters in Johor Baru yesterday.

Under BN leadership, there have always been numerous proposals in JB over the decades but hardly anything gets built or fully-implemented. We've heard all these before. We can now see the previously-proposed LRT system is downgraded to a rapid bus system...LOL I thought the double tracking of the railway was already in the 8th and 9th Malaysia plan (correct me if I am wrong)?? And how many times do they have to "clean up" Sungei Segget? The river is not even that huge (way smaller than even the tiny Sungei Melaka) and already covered up in the city centre. All the money spent or to be spend probably just ends up in some politicians' or cronys' pockets.

JB Citizens (+_+)

June 13th, 2010, 06:29 PM

daeng_jal

June 13th, 2010, 07:42 PM

Under BN leadership, there have always been numerous proposals in JB over the decades but hardly anything gets built or fully-implemented. We've heard all these before. We can now see the previously-proposed LRT system is downgraded to a rapid bus system...LOL I thought the double tracking of the railway was already in the 8th and 9th Malaysia plan (correct me if I am wrong)?? And how many times do they have to "clean up" Sungei Segget? The river is not even that huge (way smaller than even the tiny Sungei Melaka) and already covered up in the city centre. All the money spent or to be spend probably just ends up in some politicians' or cronys' pockets.

1)check out BRT system first, then complain..LRT is a stupid expensive decision..it cost almost as a MRT, but capacity is so much lesser,while BRT can be configured to be as effective as metro,much cheaper,with smaller headtime..

2)last thing i heard doble tracking is still on..

3)yup agreed,sg segget is already covered up,better find some other sungai tercemar and clean that up..

4)under PR leadership and it mountain of promise,do u see changes?.:nuts::nuts:or should give them more time and so on?:lol::lol::lol:

and JB citizen,johor already goes private long time go,..and they sucks too..keep on building shoplot and rumah teres..like there is no other thing to build...

Vince

June 14th, 2010, 04:13 AM

1)check out BRT system first, then complain..LRT is a stupid expensive decision..it cost almost as a MRT, but capacity is so much lesser,while BRT can be configured to be as effective as metro,much cheaper,with smaller headtime..

2)last thing i heard doble tracking is still on..

3)yup agreed,sg segget is already covered up,better find some other sungai tercemar and clean that up..

4)under PR leadership and it mountain of promise,do u see changes?.:nuts::nuts:or should give them more time and so on?:lol::lol::lol:

and JB citizen,johor already goes private long time go,..and they sucks too..keep on building shoplot and rumah teres..like there is no other thing to build...

1) Of course, with urban sprawl like Nusajaya and Medini, how to have LRT/BRT? No wonder the government is now going for rapid bus. Rapid buses are good at bringing people to remote oil palm plantations.

2) Double tracking had been proposed years back. If it were constructed back then, it would have spurt growth corridors along it.

3) For Sungei Segget, just remove the squatters along it and get better enforcement officers to prevent people/industries from dumping garbage/toxic materials in. I wonder where the previous funds for cleaning Segget actually went to?

4) I never mentioned about PR here. Besides I never knew that PR is the government in Johor??? For the other states, tell the Feds to release the funds to PR and see what would happen.....

Vince

June 14th, 2010, 04:25 AM

Johor must go private... We have been waiting for illusion hopes by the govt...
JB is getting older.. Almost got no development in the city centre..
What are they thinking about KOMTAR??? Oh NO.....
Iskandar Residence @ Oakwood Residence pretty much DEAD now... No cranes + no activities at site.....
Roads condition in JB especially PG Highway is getting worst... Poor maintenance... I wonder what will happen next???
Congratulation to the great govt... :applause:

I already envisioned this to happen....now it is just unfolding in front of our critics' eyes, and yet many are still blind.

Funny thing is that, of all those modern-looking graphics of towers showcasing future Iskandar and JB, only the Oakwood Residence seemed plausible and even that is dead.

KOMTAR is owned by the Johor government and I have nothing to say.

Seriously, if I were a private developer/builder, I would be scared to come invest in JB with a short-sighted government in place. I wouldn't dare build a highway to Medini or Nusajaya even if I were to toll each car 10 ringgit. However, if I were a crony promised a compensation no matter what, haha then the table would turn.

JB Citizens (+_+)

June 14th, 2010, 05:42 AM

and JB citizen,johor already goes private long time go,..and they sucks too..keep on building shoplot and rumah teres..like there is no other thing to build...[/QUOTE]

Lucky JB they built shoplots and terrace houses rather than NOTHING AT ALL...

JB city centre indeed sucks coz there are almost no highrise building being built for the last decade... But its urban area like Skudai, Tampoi & Bukit Indah have improved a lot...

EDL expressway from Pandan to JB is doing well...

Current highrise building dev in JB that looks promising is the KSL CITY near Holiday Plaza & the other 1 is PALAZIO in Mount Austin near Jusco Tebrau City...

Oh.. 1 more is Puteri Paradise near Permas Jaya...

Other than that including Oakwood & Komtar are ILLUSIONS....

cooolboi

June 15th, 2010, 09:37 AM

:lol:Wow we did not know that:nuts:

So glad that you know it now.

cooolboi

June 15th, 2010, 09:42 AM

Cos the roads there are in a terrible mess. Bad design, esp the TWO LANE driveway to the Causeway...

The buses are stopping by the road side picking up passengers. Hopefully it would not end up the next pudu station.

World 2 World

June 15th, 2010, 10:00 AM

-On another matter, Abdul Ghani announced that the Bus Rapid Transit system, which is a 40km tram-like system, would connect commuters from Johor Baru to other parts in Iskandar Malaysia.

He said the system was expected to start operations in 2012.

“In the earlier stage, the system will use the Tebrau and Skudai main ways.

“We have also identified the bus stops that are to be used,” he said, adding that he hoped the Land Public Transport Commission (SPAD) would assist the state government in implementing the system.

more: thestar.com.my/metro/story.asp?file=/2010/6/15/southneast/6463772&sec=southneast

^^I wonder how are they going to do the BRT line along skudai highways?:nuts:. the traffic there is crazy!!!

daeng_jal

June 15th, 2010, 07:53 PM

aspect it to get crazier, as the 3 lane will reduce to 2...

but then again,who ever choose to use PT will get to their location faster than b4...
who like to drive will get stuck madder than b4....haha

daeng_jal

June 15th, 2010, 07:56 PM

and JB citizen,johor already goes private long time go,..and they sucks too..keep on building shoplot and rumah teres..like there is no other thing to build...

Lucky JB they built shoplots and terrace houses rather than NOTHING AT ALL...

JB city centre indeed sucks coz there are almost no highrise building being built for the last decade... But its urban area like Skudai, Tampoi & Bukit Indah have improved a lot...

EDL expressway from Pandan to JB is doing well...

Current highrise building dev in JB that looks promising is the KSL CITY near Holiday Plaza & the other 1 is PALAZIO in Mount Austin near Jusco Tebrau City...

Oh.. 1 more is Puteri Paradise near Permas Jaya...

Other than that including Oakwood & Komtar are ILLUSIONS....[/QUOTE]

if we follow other country without rumah teres and shoplot..then there will be more high rise apartment and office block:banana::banana:

Vince

June 15th, 2010, 09:15 PM

Yes , our urban sprawl culture has caused the roadways to be so choked today. If cities in malaysia were built denser, better public transit would have been implemented earlier. However, a heavy reliance on cars have caused jams to be getting worse by the day. Never mind the bad planning in the past, but obviously authorities haven't learnt their lesson. Nusajaya and Medini are just more examples of urban sprawl which is really bad for JB, not to mention valuable and HARD-TO-COME-BY public funds being squandered to build and maintain all the highways and roads leading into those new areas.

Daengjal, you said that the private sector sucks when they build so many teres/shoplots, but what about city planners and authorities approving those projects? If good zonings are in place, do you think low-density developers would come in and fill those precious lands with shophouses and terrace houses? With new highways going into all these new areas like Nusajaya and Medini, I bet the government would easily approve more low-density housing in order to "justify" their short-sighted ventures.

daeng_jal

June 16th, 2010, 12:01 AM

^^ well to be fair,a lot of cities,did what malaysia cities did,allowed for organic growth based on the supply and demand market...yup it proven that controlling urbanism are better,and the transit to that is quiet slow,but both cities and state are not derision makers, the fed are,and if u don't comply, you get fired..

malaysian problem is that it private sector are sucks..yes it non value added, it create cartel to pump up prices..no matter what,they will not reduce prices,the kepts stock and all..why bxoz malaysian mkt are protected..should the gov allowed foreign investment..yes,but at a terrible prices of lost of vote in GE..seriusly,the gov pump in lots of money on infra,and massive tax incentives in JB..but they could only think of building more teres house and shoplot that are already oversupply and have o resell value,weird still malaysian just keep buying them?? it mad i tell you..

malaysian are also to blame,.they like landed properties to much,..since our gov allowed FREEDOM..then we goes on making bad desision..whatmore malaysian public put value on perception,rather than actual value..that is why no matter how good an apartment is,or how good suzuki motorcycle is..people don't buy it coz of perception..malaysian like tall building and public transportation,..but really,how many soul rather buy an apartment than a nice hot landed properties?..putrajaya got nice PT and walkway..but people still drive here and there.. force a malaysian to do the right thing?..hmmmh..trylah..we are degil punyer org..

anyway back to johor..the 2nd link location was choose by singapore..and those highway are build to link to the 2nd link and medini and nusajaya are in the middle of that..without nusajaya..those highway must also be build anyway..so why not planned a cities there??,..the 2nd link provided nusajaya with value on par with damansara prices..it a good investment..bcoz this area got the fastest and easiest connection to SG.. seriously there are much worse offender on urban sprawl,but you got no problem with it..particularly development at the edge of town along jln skudai and tebrau..so i think your biggest problem is that this city smell with UMNO fragrances..

you are not being objective my friend..the biggest problem i had now,is that road and petrol are subsidies..but PT are not,when it should be the other way around..

JB Citizens (+_+)

June 16th, 2010, 06:17 AM

if we follow other country without rumah teres and shoplot..then there will be more high rise apartment and office block:banana::banana:[/QUOTE]

Not all people like to live in Condos or apartments... we have to consider that also... Haiiyaa....:bash:

kamlesh22

June 19th, 2010, 11:43 AM

It is very shameful that the current president of MHCI (Mahrashtra Housing Chamber and Industries) - Mr Sunil Mantri - the elected president - has two faces, is a hypocrite and carries on double standards. One sweet image by keeping the journalists happy who print his bites and the other villaneous image with the existing tenants of a Building in the prestigious Malabar Hill in South Mumbai.

This Sunil Mantri of Mantri Group and Sunil Mantri Realty Ltd., GA-1, Court Chambers, 35, New Marine Lines, Mumbai – 400020, has entered our plot in a premium locality of MALABAR HILL in South Mumbai as the developer since the year 2005. The plot is at CS 260 of Malabar Hill Division is situated at Vithal Niwas, 100 Walkeshwar Road, Mumbai 400006.

Since then he and his agents have been giving threat to life and harassments to the tenants. The tenants were ready and are still ready to co-operate for the development of the plot. But this Sunil Mantri wants to forcibly vacate the tenants by giving them less than 30 percent cost of prevailing market rates in the area.

As per the Development Rules, now all the tenants have decided not to take any monetary compensation but choose for a residential flat (or a shop for old and existing shopkeepers) in the same plot - which is exactly as per the development rules.

Now this Sunil Mantri has started issuing dangerous threats and even claims to use his high level Political contacts against the innocent residents and shopkeepers. He has also filed false cases against the innocent tenants who do not give in to his petty and very unreasonable compensation.

It is shameful that this same Sunil Mantri who announces in Media about his mega public issue and his investment plans of 1,000s of crores but in reality this so called high profile developer who also holds some high office in MHCI – cannot tackle and negotiate and compensate reasonably (according to law) with a few bonafide tenants.

There have been several complaints filed against Sunil Mantri with the authorities.

I humbly request all the media persons, journalists and editors who have a conscience, and who can really print ACTUAL FACTS , then to come and visit the location at Vithal Niwas, 100 Walkeshwar Road, Malabar Hill, Mumbai 6 - to investigate with the commercial and residential tenants who are continously harassed and threatened by him.

nazrey

June 20th, 2010, 10:01 AM

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http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4026/4687670734_46b8b0f936_b.jpg

nazrey

June 22nd, 2010, 06:58 AM

Straits of Johor
http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4051/4663173500_e0a189b123_b.jpg

Vince

June 22nd, 2010, 09:52 PM

^^ Without real development, JB's stunted skyline is fast losing its sparkle to many other smaller cities in Malaysia. In no time, Kuching, Kota Kinabalu, Melaka, Kota Bahru and Kuantan would catch up with this city, if not already.

CARJON

June 23rd, 2010, 06:18 AM

http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss193/carjon1118/3in1768x90.gif

nazrey

June 26th, 2010, 07:44 AM

Sultan Of Johor Wants New Bridge To Replace Causeway
June 26, 2010 13:40 PM
http://www.bernama.com.my/bernama/v5/newsindex.php?id=508861

JOHOR BAHARU, June 26 (Bernama) -- The Sultan of Johor Sultan Ibrahim ibni Almarhum Sultan Iskandar has called on the government to reconsider reviving the bridge project to replace the Johor Causeway.

He said the causeway was very important to the people and the Johor sultanate since previous rulers had always be supportive of efforts to upgrade the causeway.

"Looking back, there is no doubt that the causeway is very important to the people.

"As such, the ancestors of my family since the late Sultan Ibrahim till my father, the late Sultan Iskandar had always been supportive of efforts to upgrade the causeway," he said when opening JB Sentral and launching the Kembara Mahkota Johor 2010 here Saturday.

The proposal to build an S-shaped bridge, widely dubbed the 'crooked bridge', was mooted by former prime minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad but was scrapped by his successor Tun Abdullah Ahmad Badawi in 2006.

On JB Sentral, Sultan Ibrahim said he was confident that the people were delighted with the successful completion of JB Sentral although the main component of the complex, that is, a bridge had yet to be implemented.

He said the opening of JB Sentral was historic event as his late father, Sultan Iskandar had opened the Sultan Iskandar Building which housed the Customs, Immigration and Quarantine Complex on Dec 1, 2008.

According to Sultan Ibrahim, he himself was involved in the Sultan Iskandar Building, JB Sentral and bridge projects, which were approved in 2003, by offering his views.

"When the government encountered a problem in finding a suitable site in Johor Baharu to relocate the residents of Lumba Kuda and Bukit Chagar flats, my late father gave permission for 27 acres of the Johor Sultanate land in Kampung Bakar Batu to be used to resettle the residents affected by the projects.

"This is an indication of the palace's support to enable the projects to get off the ground in the interests of the people," he said.

While commending the federal government and state governments for the successful completion of Sultan Iskandar Building and JB Sentral, Sultan Ibrahim also expressed his pleasure as both projects were completed as schedule by Bumiputera contractors from the state.

He hoped more government projects would be awarded to Bumiputera contractors from the state as they had proven their ability to develop mega projects.

Sultanah Raja Zarith Sofiah Sultan Idris, Tunku Mahkota of Johor Tunku Ismail, Deputy Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Mohd Yassin and Johor Menteri Besar Datuk Abdul Ghani Othman were present.

-- BERNAMA

nazrey

June 28th, 2010, 11:16 AM

Up to the government to revive bridge project — Abdullah
June 28, 2010, Monday
http://www.theborneopost.com/?p=42018

KEPALA BATAS: Former prime minister Tun Abdullah Ahmad Badawi said yesterday it is up to the government whether to revive its plan to build a bridge to replace the causeway connecting Malaysia and Singapore.

He said the government would know what to do.

“It’s up to the government. This is a major project; the government knows what to do,” he told reporters after opening the Kepala Batas Puteri Umno meeting, here yesterday.

He was asked to comment on the remark by the Sultan of Johor, Sultan Ibrahim ibni Almarhum Sultan Iskandar, asking the government to revive the plan to build the bridge.

The project was mooted by Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad when he was the prime minister but Abdullah decided to scrap it in 2006.

In Johor Baharu, the city was abuzzed over the sultan’s remark, with many expressing support to the call for the revival of the bridge project.

Johor Baharu Umno Youth chief Khalid Mohamad said the people of Johor had been waiting for the bridge for so long.

“His Royal Highness’ remark was timely and in line with the aspirations of Johorians,” he told Bernama.

He hoped that the much-improved bilateral relations between Malaysia and Singapore would provide a conducive environment for the revival of the bridge project, which he said would ease the severe traffic congestion in Johor Baharu and surrounding areas.

Citing the recent Keretapi Tanah Melayu Berhad land swap accord reached between the two countries, Khalid said Malaysia and Singapore were able to agree on the matter because of the warmer relations.

Vice-president of the Johor, Federal Territory and Selangor-born Malay Association, Datuk Syed Hussein Al-Habshee said the Sultan of Johor’s call for the bridge project showed that the ruler was in touch with the aspirations of the people.

“The Sultan of Johor truly cares for the people who wanted to see the construction of a new bridge,” he said, adding that the bridge would bring about “multiplier effects” to the local economy.

The association, which has 3,000 members, also welcomed Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak’s reaction to the sultan’s call, he said.

Najib had said that the government would look into the matter. — Bernama

nazrey

July 11th, 2010, 10:45 AM

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4078/4755602782_a6d1029ff7_b.jpg

nazrey

July 16th, 2010, 11:38 AM

http://www.flickr.com/photos/jovisthean/4793469584/
http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4142/4793469584_f30f4fb784_b.jpg

nazrey

July 19th, 2010, 11:34 AM

http://www.flickr.com/photos/40876363@N03/4804714900/
http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4134/4804714900_e3bafbef66_b.jpg

nazrey

July 23rd, 2010, 11:07 AM

Cleaning up JB streets
By MOHD FARHAAN SHAH Friday July 23, 2010
http://thestar.com.my/metro/story.asp?file=/2010/7/23/southneast/6710867&sec=southneast

JOHOR BARU: Fourteen homeless people, including beggars, were rounded up by the State Welfare Department and Johor Baru City Council (MBJB) in a joint operation at the city centre and Larkin Bus Terminal here.

State Welfare Department director Nik Omar Nik Abdul Rahman said the department would carry out such operation from time to time.

He said the operation was conducted to clean up the streets of Johor Baru.

“The state has asked the welfare department to oversee the operation.

“In the future, we will hold a joint operation with other agencies such as MBJB, police and the health department,” he said.

He added that the department have identified hotspots where there were many beggars and homeless people.

“It is hard to apprehend them as they move around from one place to another,” he said.

Nik Omar added that some of the homeless have families and there are those working in Singapore.

“From our investigations, we found out that some of them are employed in Singapore. They would sleep on the street just to go to work early across the causeway,” he said, adding that the so-called vagrants should just rent a house near the city centre.

Those who were rounded up during the anti-vagrant operations would be sent to the department’s safe house in Taman Seri Kenangan here.

He said the vagrants would be detained for a month under Section 3(2) of the Destitute Person’s Act 1977.

“The department will try to contact the family members of the detainees and ask them to pick up their family members who are found wandering the streets of Johor Baru.

“However, there are some family members who refused to take them in,” he said, adding that detainees without any next of kin would be taken care by the welfare department’s home.

Nik Omar urged members of the public to contact the Talian Nur hotline number at 15999 if they have information on vagrants in their township or neighbourhood.

nazrey

July 23rd, 2010, 12:19 PM

What is the tallest building in JB
Is it possible that Grand Paragon Hotel is the tallest buildong in JB!
http://www.grandparagonhotel.com.my/v3/eng/images/img-contact-1.jpg

nazrey

July 23rd, 2010, 12:31 PM

or city squrae is the tallest building >
http://www.flickr.com/photos/pnbcommercial/sets/72157622539853326/
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2603/3991255709_a46770ca71_o.jpg

nazrey

July 23rd, 2010, 12:36 PM

http://www.flickr.com/photos/ynchu/sets/72157622976312856/

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2708/4176220834_693b74b19b_b.jpg

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4047/4175524411_0f2b2a4fcd_b.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2626/4176222160_91a199bb1f_b.jpg

http://www.flickr.com/photos/tanchoonheong/3490833521/
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3621/3490833521_1c0fe4e673_b.jpg

http://www.flickr.com/photos/lin_jixiang/4795190614/in/photostream/
http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4138/4795190614_467135eab9_b.jpg

nazrey

July 23rd, 2010, 12:37 PM

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4008/4175515849_a0cf3bcd9f_b.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2518/4176283380_f740da9582_b.jpg

http://www.flickr.com/photos/lin_jixiang/4795447221/
http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4122/4795447221_e174bc9878_b.jpg

http://www.flickr.com/photos/tanchoonheong/3491653350/
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3337/3491653350_9d6d809657_b.jpg

nazrey

July 23rd, 2010, 12:40 PM

JB From Singapore
http://www.flickr.com/photos/lin_jixiang/4247938356/
http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4037/4247938356_a56975d618_b.jpg

http://www.flickr.com/photos/lin_jixiang/4171883128/in/photostream/
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2565/4171883128_644b7ee0c9_b.jpg

nazrey

July 29th, 2010, 10:53 AM

Outdoor hawker centre back in JB city
By ZAZALI MUSA Thursday July 29, 2010
http://thestar.com.my/metro/story.asp?file=/2010/7/29/southneast/6733820&sec=southneast

http://thestar.com.my/archives/2010/7/29/southneast/m_pg01ungku.jpg

NUSAJAYA: Johor plans to reintroduce the Ungku Puan night outdoor hawker centre as part of the Johor Baru city centre transformation plan.

Mentri Besar Datuk Abdul Ghani Othman said reopening the centre would help bring back the crowd to the city centre especially after office hours and at nights.

“This is one of the things that we want to include in the transformation plan,’’ he said at the opening of the Columbia Asia Hospital Nusajaya @ Afiat Healthpark recently.

The hawker centre, which was the biggest alfresco dining area in the city centre, was highly popular with locals and tourists but was closed several years ago by the Johor Baru City Council (MBJB).

Ghani said the reopening of the centre would have to include proper disposal of food wastes and hawkers must practice high standard of hygiene.

He said apart from the centre, the opening of Sungai Segget, which was covered and turned into a pedestrian walkway several years ago, would be the impetus of the transformation plan.

Prime Minister had recently announced that RM200mil would be allocated to open and clean up Sungai Segget, one of the filthiest rivers in Malaysia.

The river, which flows along Jalan Wong Ah Fook in Johor Baru city centre, was covered at a cost of RM6mil as the stench and sight of rubbish and raw sewage being dumped into it was becoming unbearable to many.

“We are looking at the Cheonggyecheon Stream that flows in downtown Seoul in South Korea to rejuvenate Sungai Segget,’’ said Ghani.

The 5.8km stream was such an eyesore before it was covered with concrete step by step over 20 years from 1958, while a 5.6km-long and 16m-elevated highway was completed in 1976.

In July 2003, then Seoul mayor Lee Myung-bak, now president of South Korea, initiated a project to remove the elevated highway and restore the stream.

Three years later, the once extremely filthy stream was rejuvenated at a cost of US$350mil (RM1.15bil) and now Cheonggyecheon has become a popular recreational park among Seoul residents and tourists.

Vince

July 30th, 2010, 05:57 AM

^^ Millions were spent covering Sungei Segget with the beautification of the walkway just 4 years ago and now millions more are going to be spent to rip it up? Wow, money sure grows on trees here in Johor! I think the state government should just spend the money to complete the re-construction of the KOMTAR mall first before embarking on other grandoise projects.

On a different note, I've been to CheongGyeCheong in Seoul and that was an awesome waterway and recreational strip 8km long in the middle of busy Seoul!

nazrey

July 31st, 2010, 08:48 AM

Johor government urged to upgrade Hutan Bandar
Saturday July 31, 2010
http://thestar.com.my/metro/story.asp?file=/2010/7/31/southneast/6757182&sec=southneast

http://thestar.com.my/archives/2010/7/31/southneast/ms_pg03hutan.jpg

Not safe: An old bridge at the Hutan Bandar that needs to be upgraded.

NUSAJAYA: An assemblyman urged the state government to allocate RM2mil to improve and upgrade the facilities at the popular Hutan Bandar recreation area.

Chia Song Cheng (BN- Pengkalan Rinting) said many of the facilities in the area built in 1993, were not well maintained due to the lack of funds.

“I visited the area in June with the Johor Baru City Council (MBJB) landscape director and found an array of problems,” he said during his debate at the state assembly last week.

He said bricks along the track for joggers had become mouldy and this caused the pavement to be slippery and posed a danger especially in the wee hours of the morning.

“I also found the roof of five chalets in the area leaking and all were just covered with a canvas,” Chia said.

He said the pond was covered with sand, earth and overgrown with weeds.

“Many of the facilities at the children’s playground are also old and needs to be better maintained,” he said hoping that the Mentri Besar would look into the matter as Hutan Bandar was a popular spot for many of the city folks.

Besides Hutan Bandar, Chia also raised concerns about cleanliness in the city including having a proper waste disposal system.

He also suggested that a special team be formed to check on cleanliness in the city area.

“I also hope that fines will be issued to those who litter,” he said, adding that more signages reminding and warning the public about littering should also be put up.

Chia said all public complaints need to be addressed immediately and Southern Waste Management (SWM) should not just wait for calls from assemblymen before taking action.

nazrey

July 31st, 2010, 08:50 AM

Johor to double up efforts to attract more tourists from Indochina
By YEE XIANG YUN Saturday July 31, 2010
http://thestar.com.my/metro/story.asp?file=/2010/7/31/southneast/6726877&sec=southneast

JOHOR BARU: The Johor tourism department has doubled up its effort to attract more tourists from Indochina as some 280,000 tourists who came to Malaysia last year bypassed Johor during their visits.

State Tourism Committee chairman Hoo Seong Chang said the number of foreign tourist to Malaysia from the region had increased by 27 percent last year compared to 2008.

“Most of the tourists from countries like Vietnam, Myanmar, Laos and Cambodia usually go for packages such as two nights stay in Kuala Lumpur and two nights in Singapore.

“A lot of them have heard of places like Desaru and Tanjung Piai but have never visited as they usually bypass the state to go to Singapore,” he said after launching the 12th Matta Travel Fair at Danga City Mall recently.

Hoo added that 60 percent of the total visitors from Indochina last year were from Vietnam.

“Out of the 15.5mil visitors who visited the state last year, only 1.6mil stayed overnight and the remaining were day-trippers.

“We are looking into upgrading our services and facilities so the visitors will stay at least one night in the state,” he said, adding that the travel fair was a good channel to provide more packages to foreigners.

Hoo said other than promoting the state in the Indochina region, the department was also looking at Japan and India.

“We are planning to invite journalists from Japan and India to visit and write about Johor’s attractions so people in these countries will be more aware of our tourism products.

“The department will be making frequent trips to these countries in a bid to encourage better international coverage for Johor,” he said.

Matta National president Datuk Mohd Khalid Harun said the travel fair not only promoted tourism, it also generated economic activities in the state.

“I believe the three-day fair plays a critical role in helping the government in creating job opportunities, promoting tourism as well as economic growth.

“I urge the exhibitors to treat the customers with courtesy and practice good business ethics so more people purchase their travel products,” he said.

The three-day fair has a total of 46 exhibitors displaying 155 booths offering affordable and attractive travel packages to both international and domestic destinations.

nazrey

July 31st, 2010, 11:16 AM

http://www.flickr.com/photos/moonymao/4843046839/in/photostream/
http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4128/4843046839_b6740c23a6_b.jpg

dengilo

July 31st, 2010, 11:45 AM

Just about 3km away !!!Bye bye 3rd world country!!!

nazrey

July 31st, 2010, 12:20 PM

:pet:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/johobaru/4205000861/
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2801/4205000861_c0cc7aaa85_b.jpg

http://www.flickr.com/photos/ynchu/sets/72157622976312856/
http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4045/4176280516_d448e67ac9_b.jpg

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4047/4175516667_0c4b950e57_b.jpg

nazrey

August 5th, 2010, 11:53 AM

Building gateway to the peninsula
2010/08/04 Abdul Rahim Ramli
http://www.nst.com.my/nst/articles/Buildinggatewaytothepeninsula/Article/#ixzz0vivX4Bmx

http://img820.imageshack.us/img820/3364/16026049.jpg

The first Customs complex in Johor Baru
after the completion of the Causeway.

http://img201.imageshack.us/img201/1296/83739056.jpg

Oct 1, 1923 is an important day as it marked the start of the
train service from Singapore to the then Malaya using the Causeway.

THE Causeway, which was constructed in 1920, was a natural progression in the development of land transport in Johor to connect the state to Singapore and facilitate its exports.

Sultan Ibrahim, in his speech at the opening of Johor Baru Sentral and launch of Kembara Mahkota on June 26, mentioned that his forefathers played a major role in the construction of the Causeway and its ancillary development.
Maharaja Abu Bakar had made the port of Tanjong Puteri the hub of trading activities during the early years of Johor to ensure its survival.

In 1864, he devised a procedure, later known as The Tanjong Puteri Controversy, whereby all vessels carrying products leaving Johor for Singapore and vice versa must call at Tanjong Puteri to collect passes.

He did not impose any tax.

It was a declaration of economic independence, much to the chagrin of the British.

Singapore continued to build ports for its international trade and pursued plans to sanction ports around its waters, including that of Johor.

A concrete causeway between the island and Johor would effectively seal the port at Tanjong Puteri as movements to east and west would be hindered.
In the meantime, the Federated Malay States (FMS) Railway proposed to have a physical link to the Singapore railway across the Johor Straits.

Crossing then was via wagon ferry, which proved to be costly as maintenance of the boats and wharfs kept increasing.

Although Sultan Ibrahim, who was Johor ruler then, subscribed to the proposal, he insisted on either a bridge or part causeway at Singapore's end and a bridge at Johor's end to enable passage of ships.
However, the foundation for a bridge was thought to be difficult to construct at that time.

The depth of the water varied between 40ft to 70ft at low tide.

The sultan then agreed to a causeway but with locks and a drawbridge at Johor's end to enable passage of ships, and additional culverts to enable flow of water.
Sultan Ibrahim insisted the causeway be wide enough to accommodate a road and pipeline, and not just the railway.

The FMS government agreed to his proposal with the proviso that Johor would meet the expenses.

The ruler accepted the proviso but proposed to levy toll on all vehicles not registered in Johor and non-Johor citizens using the causeway.

Later, the British condescended to share costs in view that imposing a toll would burden the people and hinder trade.
The foundation ceremony was held in the middle of the Straits of Johor on April 20, 1920, and was officiated by Sultan Ibrahim and Sir Laurence Guillemard, the British governor and high commissioner for the Straits Settlements.

The governor's yacht was moored alongside two barges filled with granite.

After prayers by the mufti, the governor symbolically threw a stone into the straits and pulled a silk cord to release the granite rubble from the barges.

A five-gun salute was fired from Bukit Timbalan and all ships in the harbour sounded their sirens.

The site is now marked "SJ" on the Causeway.
The causeway was designed by Messrs Goode, Fitzmaurice, Wilson & Mitchell, and the construction contract awarded to Topham, Jones & Railton Ltd.

An estimated 11/2 million cubic yards of granite, quarried from Pulau Ubin and transported via tongkang and by road from Bukit Timah, was used for the structure.
The official opening ceremony of the 3,465ft long and 60ft wide Causeway was held on July 24, 1924, witnessed by the Sultan of Perak, the Sultan of Selangor, and the Yang di-Pertuan Besar of Negri Sembilan.

The Johor Military Force (JMF) formed the guard of honour welcoming the sultans.

The JMF band played the state anthems, followed by gun salutes from Singapore gunners.

Guillemard and Sultan Ibrahim arrived together and inspected the guard of honour followed by a 21-gun salute.

Both of them joined the Malay rulers under a special canopy where the governor cut a ribbon at the drawbridge signifying the opening of the Causeway.

Guillemard, Sultan Ibrahim and the Malay Rulers were then driven across the causeway and by doing so opened it to public use.
Johor contributed $12,282,970 for the construction of its side of the Causeway, locks and drawbridge.

Johor also met the construction cost of a new railway station in 1928 to replace the temporary station at the estuary of Sungei Segget that was used for the wagon ferry.

Johor had to sacrifice one of the biggest sources of income when it had to demolish the largest steam saw-mill situated at the estuary.
The lock and drawbridge system enabled small coastal vessels to continue plying the trade route to the eastern and western seaboard of Johor as well as to Singapore.

However, due to increased traffic and the laying of water pipelines, the use of the drawbridge was stopped.

In 1942, the retreating British forces blew up the drawbridge and locks in the face of the advancing Japanese army.
The present Sultan of Johor's call for the construction of a bridge to replace the Causeway reflects his grandfather's wisdom; the free movement of shipping, a cleaner environment and enhancement of trade giving prominence to Johor as the gateway to the peninsula.

It would also complement the CIQ Sultan Iskandar Building.

nazrey

August 12th, 2010, 07:02 AM

http://www.flickr.com/photos/50633433@N04/4656302270/
http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4035/4656302270_026e40da34_b.jpg

Porridge

August 18th, 2010, 01:01 AM

Hi Nazrey

You look to enjoy your photography. Thanks for posting pictures of Malaysia. I found the Johor ones to be rather interesting as I've not seen the place at all. I am planning a trip with my family to the peninsular at the end of the year, hoping to take in some of the known sites and some not so well-known.

Johor is on my route, but heading more towards Kota Tinggi (typical tourist) as I've not heard much about places to visit in Johor city itself. I've also heard safety for non-locals or foreign visitors is possibly an issue?

I came across this site searching for more information about the British Ops Centre. Would you have more pictures on the web regarding this place? Is it worth a stopover or is it just a singular bunker on the exterior that one cannot venture?

I'm just looking at your Malacca pictures, some very nice shots. Malacca is also on one of my planned stops.

redstone

August 25th, 2010, 02:43 PM

http://picas.nhb.gov.sg/picas/data/tn_pcd/20050000002-0038-3202-0774/img0055.jpg
http://picas.nhb.gov.sg/picas/data/tn_pcd/20050000661-L410-JS60-5122-145L-B15/img0051.jpg
Woodlands railway jetty / slipway, used to transfer rail goods via sea before the Causeway was built

http://picas.nhb.gov.sg/picas/data/tn_pcd/20060000334-5227-0511-0744-L2/img0065.jpg
Woodlands station

http://picas.nhb.gov.sg/picas/data/tn_pcd/20090000453-8208-8BC1-1664/img0001.jpg
The former railway jetty at Woodlands, with the Causeway under construction

http://picas.nhb.gov.sg/picas/data/tn_pcd/20090000453-8208-8BC1-1664/img0004.jpg
The lock in the Causeway

http://picas.nhb.gov.sg/picas/data/tn_pcd/20090000453-8208-8BC1-1664/img0003.jpg
Lock

http://picas.nhb.gov.sg/picas/data/tn_pcd/19980005124-8073-3222-4728/img0044.jpg
JB dated 1930, the lock channel beside the coast.

I just discovered that the channel still exist now...

http://img827.imageshack.us/img827/3810/83296222.jpg (http://img827.imageshack.us/i/83296222.jpg/)

redstone

August 25th, 2010, 02:44 PM

http://picas.nhb.gov.sg/picas/data/tn_pcd/20090000097-L104-JS50-3255/img0001.jpg
JB to singapore

http://picas.nhb.gov.sg/picas/data/tn_pcd/20090000453-8208-8BC1-1664/img0004.jpg
The lock in the Causeway

http://picas.nhb.gov.sg/picas/data/tn_pcd/20090000453-8208-8BC1-1664/img0003.jpg
Lock

http://picas.nhb.gov.sg/picas/data/tn_pcd/19980005124-8073-3222-4728/img0044.jpg
JB dated 1930

masaiboy

August 27th, 2010, 02:02 PM

hello,

it is almost end of 2010 now. does ulu tiram have the mono rail now?

Monorail: Danga Bay, Ulu Tiram first on list
19 Jul 2006

JOHOR BARU: Ulu Tiram, the central business district here and Danga Bay will be the first districts to be linked by the proposed RM1 billion monorail system.

Under the first phase, it will ferry passengers between the city centre to Tebrau, Senai, Skudai and Bandar Nusajaya — some of the most densely populated areas here.

These details, released by Menteri Besar Datuk Abdul Ghani Othman yesterday, are part of a preliminary study on monorail routes.

The State Government hoped the design and routes would be finalised by early next year and building completed by 2009, he said.

"We’re counting on Federal Government support, as Johor cannot fund such a major undertaking alone," he added.

In June, Johor received competing proposals to build the monorail from two local companies, one with a Chinese partner and the other South Korean.

Yesterday, Ghani said he will lead a delegation to visit Beijing next week to evaluate the proposal involving a Chinese company.

He made a similar visit to South Korea in June

nazrey

September 6th, 2010, 10:00 AM

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4145/4960603112_53396e3fa9_b.jpg
http://www.flickr.com/photos/andrewjktan/4960603112/
http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4121/4960006141_62d013f42a_b.jpg
http://www.flickr.com/photos/andrewjktan/4960006141/in/photostream/

nazrey

September 6th, 2010, 10:08 AM

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4124/4950390860_75d040baa9_b.jpg
http://www.flickr.com/photos/24502427@N08/4950390860/in/photostream/
http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4125/4950382600_48de9eccb1_b.jpg
http://www.flickr.com/photos/24502427@N08/4950382600/

Vince

September 6th, 2010, 10:40 AM

hello,

it is almost end of 2010 now. does ulu tiram have the mono rail now?

If you haven't realised by now, the UMNO/BN government are always lying to the public, but we fools keep voting them in.....

nazrey

September 9th, 2010, 04:01 PM

Outside Aeon Bukit Idah Shopping Centre

http://commondatastorage.googleapis.com/static.panoramio.com/photos/original/37504652.jpg

nazrey

September 9th, 2010, 04:09 PM

http://www.panoramio.com/photo/30956660http://img180.imageshack.us/img180/4340/85440631.jpg

nazrey

September 13th, 2010, 11:04 AM

Rapid response to complaints
2010/09/12 By Rizalman Hammim
http://www.nst.com.my/nst/articles/jprru/Article/

http://img709.imageshack.us/img709/3507/69501480.jpg

The team has been taking swift action on public complaints.

The Rapid Response Unit set up by the Johor Baru City Council's (MBJB) Engineering and Workshop Department has successfully attended to several complaints lodged by city residents.

Although the unit was only set up over a month ago, it has solved problems such as roads in need of immediate repairs. It has also repaired and replaced stolen or damaged manhole covers. :)

The unit, which is made up of 20 personnel from various departments, is headed by engineer Mohd Fadhil Suhaimi Talibin. The personnel have each served more than five years at MBJB.

Fadhil said the unit was based at the Workshop Division in Taman Mount Austin.

"We see this as a good move in view of the large number of complaints we have received that need immediate action.

"Although still new, the unit has been able to carry out its duties well.

"We work closely with all departments as most complaints are about road repair works and other maintenance works," said Fadhil.

chumpon

September 15th, 2010, 08:24 AM

credit to :- http://jbcool.com/wp-content/themes/arthemia/images/logo.png

http://jbcool.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/06/3D-cinema-johor-bahru-5.jpg

http://jbcool.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/06/3D-cinema-johor-bahru-41.jpg

http://jbcool.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/06/misti-johor-flyers.jpg

http://jbcool.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/pc-fair-2010.jpg

http://jbcool.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/04/handphone-broadbanc.gif

http://jbcool.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/04/hp2.jpg

nazrey

September 28th, 2010, 07:57 AM

Johor Government To Get Public Feedback On Transforming Johor Baharu
February 14, 2010 17:16 PM

JOHOR BAHARU, Feb 14 (Bernama) -- The Johor government will be seeking feedback from non-governmental organisations, guilds and chambers of commerce here on the transformation plan for Johor Baharu city.

Menteri Besar Datuk Abdul Ghani Othman said this was to ensure that the plan would be in line with the needs and aspirations of the city's residents.

"The transformation is necessary to ensure that the city area is not left behind while the surrounding areas are developing rapidly," he said at a Chinese New Year celebration organised by the Persekutuan Tiong Hua Johor Baharu on Sunday.

Abdul Ghani said the transformation plan would be implemented soon but the city's cultural and historical aspects would be preserved for posterity.

He said the state government was also optimistic that there would be economic recovery and growth albeit rather slowly.

"What is important is for the people to strengthen racial unity so as to facilitate the economic recovery and growth," he added.

On the recent attacks on houses of worship including in Johor, he said the people of Johor must not allow any quarters to split them.

"I believe the people of Johor have the wisdom and maturity in dealing with issues due to the understanding that has been built among them a long time ago," he said.

Abdul Ghani also announced a government grant of RM500,000 for the building of the Chinese Traditional Medicine Faculty of Kolej Selatan, here.

Kolej Selatan offers a degree programme in the field under a twinning programme with the Chinese Traditional Medicine University, Tianjin, China.

-- BERNAMA
'Twin towers' plan for JB
2010/09/28 By Chuah Bee Kim

JOHOR BARU: A high-rise building similar to the Petronas Twin Towers in Kuala Lumpur is being planned for the city.

Menteri Besar Datuk Abdul Ghani Othman said the proposed building was "something like the Petronas Twin Towers but not quite like it" and was likely to be located near the Johor Baru Central Complex.

"This towering high-rise, which is likely to be the new landmark of Johor Baru, will offer a view of not only this city but also Singapore," he said after opening HSBC Amanah's new branch in Nusa Bestari yesterday.

The proposed site for the project is where the Bukit Cagar and Lumba Kuda flats used to stand before they were demolished to make way for the Customs, Immigration and Quarantine (CIQ) Complex at the Sultan Iskandar Building.

Ghani said the project would be part of the transformation plan for downtown Johor Baru under the 10th Malaysia Plan.

The menteri besar also confirmed that a feasibility study was being carried out for the construction of an underground tunnel from Tanjong Puteri here to Woodlands in Singapore to accommodate a rapid transit system (RTS).

Discussions between Malaysia and Singapore on the project was announced by Transport Minister Datuk Seri Kong Cho Ha last week.

The project was a part of the agreement reached between Malay-sia and Singapore on the land swap deal involving Keretapi Tanah Melayu Bhd's (KTMB) land in the republic.

The tunnel is expected to be completed before 2018 when KTMB's facilities in Woodlands will be relocated to a transport hub in Kempas here.

Ghani said an RTS station was likely to be built near the tunnel's entrance on the Malaysian side to accommodate customs and immigration facilities.

He added that the state government was adopting a two-year "rolling plan" in setting the budget for the high-rise building and underground tunnel projects.

The state government is also expecting to receive the green light for the implementation of two other major projects in the state, also under the 10th Malaysia Plan. They are the upgrading of the Pasir Gudang highway and the transformation of Sungai Segget.

Meanwhile, the menteri besar said the cumulative investment received for Iskandar Malaysia stood at RM63.09 billion as of July -- an increase of RM7.53 billion from December last year.

nazrey

September 28th, 2010, 08:07 AM

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3312/4557067477_d2fae96115_b.jpg
http://www.flickr.com/photos/colinlim/4557067477/

nazrey

September 28th, 2010, 04:31 PM

JB to get own ‘KLCC’
By ZAZALI MUSA Tuesday September 28, 2010
http://biz.thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2010/9/28/business/7112566&sec=business

http://biz.thestar.com.my/archives/2010/9/28/business/b_10ghani.jpg

Datuk Abdul Ghani Othman and Mukhtar Hussain
signing the plaque at the branch opening

JOHOR BARU: Johor wants to develop the former sites of the Lumba Kuda and Bukit Chagar low-cost flats in Johor Baru into an area similar to Kuala Lumpur City Centre.

Mentri Besar Datuk Abdul Ghani Othman said the components of the project would include buildings that resembled the iconic Petronas Twin Towers, hotels, condominiums, serviced apartments and retail complexes.

“On clear days, the towers would have a commanding 360 degrees views of the city centre and our neighbour Singapore,” he said yesterday.

Ghani was speaking to journalists at the opening of the HSBC Amanah Malaysia Bhd’s first Islamic bank branch in Johor at Taman Nusa Bestari and also its seventh branch.

He said the Lumba Kuda and Bukit Chagar sites would also be the last stop for the mass rapid transit (MRT) services from Woodlands, Singapore to Tanjung Puteri in Johor Baru. A rapid transit system (RTS), which would be centralised at Kempas KTM station, will connect commuters to other parts of Johor Baru and Pasir Gudang.

Ghani said Johor was opened to all options on the type of RTS to use; whether to have a bridge across the Straits of Johor or an underground sea tunnel linking Johor and Singapore.

“The distance might be short: only about 1.6km but if the sea tunnel project is viable and can help reduce congestion above land, why not,” he said.

Ghani said the Iskandar Regional Development Authority and State Economic Planning Unit would have until the end of the year to complete their studies on the city centre transformation plan and submit their findings to the Federal Government.

Under the 10th Malaysia Plan, some RM1.8bil will be spent to turn Johor Baru into a vibrant city in line with its status as one of the five flagship development zones in Iskandar Malaysia.

daeng_jal

September 28th, 2010, 04:58 PM

^^ according to this http://www.nst.com.my/nst/articles/08lamp-2/Article/

800mil is for redevelopment of segget river, which leave another 1bil for the city centre alone...

but why the mrt at bukit kuda, ktm at jb sentral and another one for rts at kempas??
kalau buat kt satu tempat jer kan elok

World 2 World

September 28th, 2010, 05:22 PM

'Twin towers' plan for JB
2010/09/28 By Chuah Bee Kim

JOHOR BARU: A high-rise building similar to the Petronas Twin Towers in Kuala Lumpur is being planned for the city.

Menteri Besar Datuk Abdul Ghani Othman said the proposed building was "something like the Petronas Twin Towers but not quite like it" and was likely to be located near the Johor Baru Central Complex.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v235/weijie/sta_modify.jpg

^^^^location ?

supremecouncillor

September 28th, 2010, 05:25 PM

Twin tower in JB, thats cool..

nazrey

September 28th, 2010, 06:33 PM

'Twin towers' plan for JB
2010/09/28 By Chuah Bee Kim

Menteri Besar Datuk Abdul Ghani Othman said the proposed building was "something like the Petronas Twin Towers but not quite like it" and was likely to be located near the Johor Baru Central Complex.

----

The proposed site for the project is where the Bukit Cagar and Lumba Kuda flats used to stand before they were demolished to make way for the Customs, Immigration and Quarantine (CIQ) Complex at the Sultan Iskandar Building.

Bukan kt tempat Lumba Kuda flats dulu ke?
http://img38.exs.cx/img38/7697/causeway42058kw.jpg

http://i35.photobucket.com/albums/d163/picaddict_1975/JB/IMG_0039.jpg

Kini dah roboh

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v637/tamagoo/oct08/oct18-36.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2746/4540844036_d8fdd7897e_b.jpg

Mungkin kt kawasan ni ...

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3155/3062132145_f541f5a0a5_b.jpg

Vince

September 28th, 2010, 09:39 PM

JB Citizens (+_+)

October 1st, 2010, 03:23 PM

Nice to hear about the twin towers...
But 1st, they need to re-develop KOMTAR & Pacific Mall immediately... :lol:

nazrey

October 2nd, 2010, 08:05 AM

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4089/5038854360_c8f1879139_b.jpg
http://www.flickr.com/photos/sultanjb/5038854360/

nazrey

October 18th, 2010, 09:38 AM

How about Twin Towers of JB!!!

chumpon

October 24th, 2010, 09:33 AM

http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/4/40/JB_City_Centre_core_mainroad_@_2009.jpg

chumpon

October 24th, 2010, 09:34 AM

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc4/hs362.snc4/44488_127432103971764_100001149250252_145975_7352533_n.jpg

Larkin bus terminal

jb2020

October 29th, 2010, 03:37 AM

JB city area

http://img819.imageshack.us/img819/706/sam0036d.jpg

http://img264.imageshack.us/img264/7388/sam0043.jpg

http://img530.imageshack.us/img530/3512/sam0048s.jpg

Tebrau skyline (view from Taman Century Garden)

http://img13.imageshack.us/img13/8794/sam0060y.jpg

Kebun Teh and Larkin skyline

http://img40.imageshack.us/img40/8112/sam0071.jpg

Bayu Puteri Marina skyline (view from Permas Jaya bridge)

http://img243.imageshack.us/img243/2413/sam0466.jpg

JB Citizens (+_+)

October 29th, 2010, 06:00 AM

hey jb2020... what happen to Iskandar Residence??? Got any update???

jb2020

October 29th, 2010, 06:27 AM

Hi jb citizen...so far there is no construction progress at the site (Iskandar Residence). For this moment, the project that is really booming only KSL City. The tower of the building is rising quite faster now.

JB Citizens (+_+)

October 29th, 2010, 06:47 AM

^^
Alright.. TQ...

nazrey

October 31st, 2010, 08:01 PM

RM200 Milion Project To Re-open Segget River To Begin Early Next Year
October 30, 2010 17:12 PM

JOHOR BAHARU, Oct 30 (Bernama) -- The RM200 million project to re-open the Segget River would begin early next year, Johor Menteri Besar Datuk Abdul Ghani Othman said Saturday.

He said the project would be implemented by the Iskandar Regional Development Authority, as announced by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak, during his visit here last May.

"The river will be re-opened and built as a double-decked river. The upper deck will channel clean water while the lower deck will channel treated sewage to the Tebrau Straits," he said after opening the Kwong Siew Wai Kuan Heritage Gallery here.

When announcing the allocation for the project, Najib also visualised the Segget River to become a new tourist attraction like Venice in Italy.

The rehabilitation of the river using the effective micro-organisms method is part of the Johor Baharu city transformation plan under the 10th Malaysia Plan.

-- BERNAMA

dengilo

November 1st, 2010, 01:00 AM

????But why??

daeng_jal

November 1st, 2010, 06:55 AM

hahaha they are trying to pull a seoul

wouldn't it be better to just leave sengget walk like it is and put the money on sg tebrau ke,sg danga ke sg melayu ke sg skudai ke

nazrey

November 1st, 2010, 09:04 AM

JB crime index down, but it’s not enough
Monday November 1, 2010
http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2010/11/1/nation/7338454&sec=nation

JOHOR BARU: The overall crime index in the city has dropped by 24.5% but more need to be done to shed Johor Baru’s crime-prone image.

Mentri Besar Datuk Abdul Ghani Othman said although crime had generally dropped, it was a challenge to rid the city of the stigma.

“We are located close to other countries and sometimes their media labels Johor Baru as an unsafe city,” he said during an official visit to the Johor Baru South police district headquarters yesterday.

He said the only way to counter it was to continue lowering the crime index.

“The police have already done a good job by lowering street crime by a massive 54.8% and this surpasses the National Key Result Area (NKRA) target,’’ he added.

Ghani said the Johor Baru South police district had been given 206 more men for various duties.

“Currently, the police district has 1,212 men who have been conducting police beats, patrols in MPVs and on motorcycles, and the special Ninja Squad to counter street crimes,” he said.

Abdul Ghani said one way to counter crimes was to focus on the drug addiction problem.

“There is a relation between drugs and crime and we need to tackle this problem,” he said.

RM350mil for Crime Prevention programmes
Monday November 1, 2010
http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2010/11/1/nation/7311342&sec=nation

Kuala Lumpur: The Government has allocated RM350mil for the implementation of various programmes to fight crime; promote safer townships and voluntary patrol schemes in areas that were considered high risk.

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak said that public safety was imperative in creating a safe environment. He said through the various initiatives of the Crime Reduction NKRA of the GTP, street crime index went down 38% while the overall crime index was reduced by 16%.

Najib also said RM70mil would be provided to selected non-governmental organisations (NGOs) to set up programmes and activities to assist the authorities in reducing crime, for instance, programmes to strengthen the family institution and address social ills such as Mat Rempit and gangsters.

The NGOs will also work together with government agencies to establish programmes in high-risk crime areas to prevent crime at its source.

nazrey

November 2nd, 2010, 07:49 AM

Upgrade tourist spots says councillor
By BRENDAN VIVE SUPPIAH Tuesday November 2, 2010
http://thestar.com.my/metro/story.asp?file=/2010/11/2/southneast/7329412&sec=southneast

http://thestar.com.my/archives/2010/11/2/southneast/s_04meldrum.jpg

Keeping clean: An archway welcoming locals and tourists into Jalan Meldrum.
This is part of Johor Baru City Council (MBJB) effort to clean up the city.

JOHOR BARU: Johor Baru City Council (MBJB) have been urged to revamp and upgrade the JB Bazaar, ‘Pasar Karat’ and Meldrum Walk to attract more tourists, both local and foreign.

Councillor in charge of hawker/trader zone Abdullah Md Yusof said these areas should be better lit to make them brighter and safer.

“These areas are a major attraction in the city centre and they should be constantly improved,” he said.

He said it was also important that the stalls be kept clean and tidy.

“Currently we can find heaps of rubbish near these areas and it is unsightly,” he said.

Meanwhile, Johor Baru mayor Mohd Jaffar Awang said a special operations room had been set up to combat Aedes mosquitoes and dengue.

He said the operations room would organise logistics, work force, preparation of operation reports and monitoring of all dengue cases within the municipality daily.

“The operations centre will be open from from 8am until 10pm, Monday to Friday and up to 5pm on weekends,” he said, adding that the public could contact the centre at 07-226 8103.

Mohd Jaffar said another task force had been set up to monitor hotspots for Aedes mosquito breeding grounds in the city and they would conduct checks in such areas and fine owners who were found breeding mosquitoes in their premises.

“I hope the public will help MBJB in combating Aedes mosquitoes by conducting weekly checks in their houses and eliminate mosquito breeding areas,” he said.

roquezz

November 3rd, 2010, 06:31 AM

owh thats why now a lot of Polis Bantuan round in housing area..

Vince

November 3rd, 2010, 07:45 AM

hahaha they are trying to pull a seoul

wouldn't it be better to just leave sengget walk like it is and put the money on sg tebrau ke,sg danga ke sg melayu ke sg skudai ke

Totally agree with you. They spent so much just a few years back to cover and spruce up Sungei Segget. Now they are ripping everything up? Such a waste of public funds.....

daeng_jal

November 3rd, 2010, 08:43 AM

^^
no lah its not bout just wastage of public fund

sg segget is already dense,short and so on,..pumping money into it would probably make it good looking but thats that..

but if you put it on sg tebrau for instant,the spurce up may entice people to live,work n play by the waterfront,which is on goverment land,which not only offset the cost of construction but increase economic activities in JB

nazrey

November 4th, 2010, 11:12 AM

http://commondatastorage.googleapis.com/static.panoramio.com/photos/original/32285087.jpg
http://www.panoramio.com/photo/32285087

http://img801.imageshack.us/img801/4373/77887909.jpg

chumpon

November 4th, 2010, 07:40 PM

http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_C1EPAkx1iC8/SPKTKrg3__I/AAAAAAAAG11aM/J5dKf4LmOQE/s1600-h/DSCN2645.JPG

http://www1.i2r.a-star.edu.sg/~bxchen/myPIC/Cities/Johor-bahru.jpg

chumpon

November 4th, 2010, 07:45 PM

start to walk thru Wong Ah Fook Road.I

http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o160/robojsl/JB%20Town/DSCN0939.jpg (http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o160/robojsl/JB%20Town/DSCN0939.jpg)

Before my journey, I saw this two shop lots was build before the second world war!

http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o160/robojsl/JB%20Town/DSCN0937.jpg (http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o160/robojsl/JB%20Town/DSCN0937.jpg)

And along the streets, you can see many of these decoration lamp.....

http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o160/robojsl/JB%20Town/DSCN0938.jpg (http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o160/robojsl/JB%20Town/DSCN0938.jpg)

At the beginning of Wong Ah Fook Road, this special decoration object appear in front of the JB Custom.

http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o160/robojsl/JB%20Town/DSCN0941.jpg (http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o160/robojsl/JB%20Town/DSCN0941.jpg)

I found many water features along the Wong Ah Fook road build by the local council.

http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o160/robojsl/JB%20Town/DSCN0940.jpg (http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o160/robojsl/JB%20Town/DSCN0940.jpg)

Good rest for the cleaners ......

http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o160/robojsl/JB%20Town/DSCN0942.jpg (http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o160/robojsl/JB%20Town/DSCN0942.jpg)
http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o160/robojsl/JB%20Town/DSCN0944.jpg (http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o160/robojsl/JB%20Town/DSCN0944.jpg)

Within the plant....

http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o160/robojsl/JB%20Town/DSCN0943.jpg (http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o160/robojsl/JB%20Town/DSCN0943.jpg)
http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o160/robojsl/JB%20Town/DSCN0946.jpg (http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o160/robojsl/JB%20Town/DSCN0946.jpg)

http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o160/robojsl/JB%20Town/DSCN0967.jpg (http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o160/robojsl/JB%20Town/DSCN0967.jpg)

This sign stated CCTV camera everywhere (24hrs), but funny! I don't see even one!

http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o160/robojsl/JB%20Town/DSCN0968.jpg (http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o160/robojsl/JB%20Town/DSCN0968.jpg)

And a few of the mobile Police Bit, but......there was nobody there......

http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o160/robojsl/JB%20Town/DSCN0969.jpg (http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o160/robojsl/JB%20Town/DSCN0969.jpg)

After the junction, I walked across to Siu Nam road.

http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o160/robojsl/JB%20Town/DSCN0950.jpg (http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o160/robojsl/JB%20Town/DSCN0950.jpg)

http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o160/robojsl/JB%20Town/DSCN0947.jpg (http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o160/robojsl/JB%20Town/DSCN0947.jpg)

This kind of stall handling by indian are very few nowadays, you can't see it in some new residential area anymore! They are mostly like convenience store you have right now, selling those daily necessity.....

http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o160/robojsl/JB%20Town/DSCN0948.jpg (http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o160/robojsl/JB%20Town/DSCN0948.jpg)

Opposite of this stall, I discovered the new look of 'Coffeeshop'!

http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o160/robojsl/JB%20Town/DSCN0949.jpg (http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o160/robojsl/JB%20Town/DSCN0949.jpg)

http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o160/robojsl/JB%20Town/DSCN0957.jpg (http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o160/robojsl/JB%20Town/DSCN0957.jpg)

Then I explore in Meldrum road......
I cannot recall when was my last time visit this shop.

http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o160/robojsl/JB%20Town/DSCN0953.jpg (http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o160/robojsl/JB%20Town/DSCN0953.jpg)

This is the street where crime happens during night time! Tourist please avoid!

http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o160/robojsl/JB%20Town/DSCN0958.jpg (http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o160/robojsl/JB%20Town/DSCN0958.jpg)
http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o160/robojsl/JB%20Town/DSCN0952.jpg (http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o160/robojsl/JB%20Town/DSCN0952.jpg)

If happens you are around this area, please avoid some hotels like below......

http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o160/robojsl/JB%20Town/DSCN0954.jpg (http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o160/robojsl/JB%20Town/DSCN0954.jpg)
http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o160/robojsl/JB%20Town/DSCN0963.jpg (http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o160/robojsl/JB%20Town/DSCN0963.jpg)

Unless you know what you gonna find inside the hotel........

Some photos along the street......

Merlin Tower - The first commercial tower in Johor Bahru.

http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o160/robojsl/JB%20Town/DSCN0955.jpg (http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o160/robojsl/JB%20Town/DSCN0955.jpg)
http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o160/robojsl/JB%20Town/DSCN0961.jpg (http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o160/robojsl/JB%20Town/DSCN0961.jpg)

[i]Wong Ah Fook road - The busiest road in Johor Bahru town.

http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o160/robojsl/JB%20Town/DSCN0964.jpg (http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o160/robojsl/JB%20Town/DSCN0964.jpg)
http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o160/robojsl/JB%20Town/DSCN0962.jpg (http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o160/robojsl/JB%20Town/DSCN0962.jpg)

You can find hawker foods at most of the back alley here during night time.

http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o160/robojsl/JB%20Town/DSCN0959.jpg (http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o160/robojsl/JB%20Town/DSCN0959.jpg)
[align=center]http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o160/robojsl/JB%20Town/DSCN0960.jpg (http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o160/robojsl/JB%20Town/DSCN0960.jpg)

The first Theater in Johor Bahru - Broadway Theater (still operating)[/size]

http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o160/robojsl/JB%20Town/DSCN0966.jpg (http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o160/robojsl/JB%20Town/DSCN0966.jpg)
Asia Life Building - Johor Bahru.

http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o160/robojsl/JB%20Town/DSCN0965.jpg (http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o160/robojsl/JB%20Town/DSCN0965.jpg)

MCA Building - Johor Bahru

http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o160/robojsl/JB%20Town/DSCN0970.jpg[/url]

At the end of Trus road.

http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o160/robojsl/JB%20Town/DSCN0936.jpg (http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o160/robojsl/JB%20Town/DSCN0936.jpg)

While waiting to cross the road......

http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o160/robojsl/JB%20Town/DSCN0972.jpg (http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o160/robojsl/JB%20Town/DSCN0972.jpg)

I can see a lot of the building here really need to do something on it. It's dangerous for those who walk pass!

http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o160/robojsl/JB%20Town/DSCN0974.jpg (http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o160/robojsl/JB%20Town/DSCN0974.jpg)

http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o160/robojsl/JB%20Town/DSCN0973.jpg (http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o160/robojsl/JB%20Town/DSCN0973.jpg)

The weather change very fast and I stuck in the rain for 20 minutes before going back.

ideal jb

November 12th, 2010, 01:48 PM

^^ Was it on a public holiday when you took those pictures? The streets look so empty, but its not like jam pack during any other days on some of the streets you snapped. As you can see, there aren’t many new stuffs going around and I dare say in exaggeration, perhaps Bukit Timah in S’pore look much better… And I think you’re quite right to say it’s a town rather than city, cos. the city I know and hope for isn’t this backwards and like the people there suddenly abducted by aliens or something… If its 1980, those pictures will wow me, 2010 I say wahkao… lol.

nazrey

November 17th, 2010, 06:29 PM

Plaza Angsana
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3559/3322297222_bf08c9a17f.jpg?v=0

http://www.uda.com.my/angsana
http://www.uda.com.my/image/image_gallery?uuid=a0083231-d754-4907-b974-7b5bbcf6efa5&groupId=10131&t=1235957536625

http://www.uda.com.my/image/image_gallery?uuid=e0e207b5-3025-4181-b606-70f23f0132c4&groupId=10131&t=1235957309687

Uda to develop Angsana 2 project
Published: 2010/11/17
http://www.btimes.com.my/Current_News/BTIMES/articles/20101117195035/Article/index_html

Uda Holdings Bhd is to develop the Angsana 2 commercial project, which incorporates a street mall concept, by the end of next year, its chairman Datuk Nur Jazlan Mohamed said today.

He said Angsana 2, which would be located adjacent to Plaza Angsana, would be the first shopping complex with the street mall concept in Johor Baru.

"With the development of Angsana 2, Johor Baharu will have yet another modern and highly competitive shopping complex, but which safeguards the interests of the Malays," he said.

He spoke to reporters after the Aidiladha sacrificial slaughter of animals at the Plaza Angsana car park, which was also attended by the Tunku Temenggong of Johor, Tunku Idris Sultan Ibrahim.

Nur Jazlan, who is the MP for Pulai, said the cost of construction of Angsana 2 was still under consideration.

He said a preliminary study indicated good demand and business opportunities for the Angsana 2 development.

The street mall concept was more attractive because stalls could continue to do business late into the night even after the complex had closed for the day, he said.

He said he believed that Angsana 2 would draw more people from Singapore who preferred the shopping atmosphere of the republic, but added that they would be able to buy goods at bargain prices.

On projects in the Iskandar Malaysia development corridor, Nur Jazlan said Uda Holdings was looking into several potential development projects but had yet to make any decision. -- Bernama

JB Citizens (+_+)

November 30th, 2010, 12:20 PM

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