S P Setia Bhd’s Setia Alam township, which spans 4,000 acres, has come a long way since it was established in 2004. After selling off part of the former oil palm plantation, S P Setia was left with 2,525 acres, of which about 80% has been developed, says divisional general manager Tan Siow Chung, who has been involved in the Setia Alam development since the beginning.
Setia Alam is easily accessible via various highways and expressways such as the New Klang Valley Expressway, Federal Highway, the upcoming Damansara-Shah Alam Elevated Expressway and West Coast Expressway.
In an interview with City & Country over Zoom, Tan relates how the township has grown over the years, based on the four pillars of Live, Learn, Work and Play.
Under the Live element, there are various residential types for all income groups. Under Learn, there are international schools such as Tenby International School, Idrissi International School and Peninsular International School, and national schools SMK Setia Alam, SK Setia Alam, SJK (C) Pin Hwa 1 and SJK (T) Ladang North Hummock.
Under the Work pillar, several top companies are setting up their head offices in Setia Alam. They include latex glove manufacturer Kossan; car companies such as Audi, BMW, Honda, Mercedes and Toyota; the National Institute of Health and S P Setia itself.
For Play, there are numerous parks and amenities such as the Urban Park, Setia Alam Pasar Malam or night market, and Setia City Mall. Phase 2 of the mall has been completed and it will open in 1Q2021.
According to Tan, these elements have enhanced the popularity of the township. The current population is 80,000 and it is estimated to grow to 170,000 when everything is completed. The latest products at Setia Alam are 2-storey semi-detached houses called Leegeana and 2-storey terraced houses called Conicus in the Bywater Homes precinct.
Tan: In Setia Alam, we are in touch with nature, so we have to get our product names from nature (Photo by S P Setia)
The 80-acre Bywater Homes precinct features homes and elements that encourage residents to spend time outdoors. After a soft launch in 2019, S P Setia launched two phases of terraced and semi-detached houses. The third phase was launched in October 2020 (Conicus) and November 2020 (Leegeana).
Leegeana comprises 52 units of 2-storey semi-detached houses measuring 32ft by 75ft. Type E has a built-up of 2,463 sq ft and a starting price of RM1.065 million while Type F has a built-up from 2,530 sq ft and a starting price of RM1.093 million. The units have a bedroom on the lower level that is ideal for elderly parents. All bedrooms have attached bathrooms. Leegeana has a gross development value (GDV) of RM57 million.
Conicus, meanwhile, has a GDV of RM59 million. There are 75 units of 20ft by 70ft 2-storey terraced houses for purchase. Type E has a built-up of 2,006 to 2,364 sq ft and a starting price of RM753,000 while Type F has a built-up of 1,902 to 2,216 sq ft and a starting price of RM723,000. There is also a ground floor bedroom while all bedrooms will have an attached bathroom.
Tan says because of the successful take-up of previous launches in the precinct of between 90% and 98%, he is confident that the new products will do well, even in the current market conditions.
“There is demand,” he says. “The previous two phases have almost sold out and there is a waiting list for the next launch.
“[Bywater Homes] will be the last parcel in the northern part of the Setia Alam development. What makes Bywater Homes so special is that it is sandwiched between beautiful landscaped areas, waterways and a lake.”
The water elements include the Wetlands Park, which covers 24 acres of the total precinct area, and a stretch of water along the side of the development facing Persiaran Setia Perdana where Gardens of the World is situated. This landscaped tract will incorporate elements inspired by parks and gardens in America, Europe and Asia.
Sandwiching the residential components is the Active Park, which will have a recreational area.
The Conicus Type E houses look like semidees as neighbouring houses have different designs (Photo by S P Setia)
“We noticed that throughout the Setia Alam developments, all the parks are mainly for leisure and there is exercise equipment installed. We realised that there is a lack of amenities for teenagers. Teens like biking, skateboarding and other active sports. These elements will be included in Active Park,” adds Tan.
The name Bywater Homes is derived from the location of the homes by the water. The names of the different products in the precinct, meanwhile, are based on elements of nature.
“In Setia Alam, we are in touch with nature, so we have to get our product names from nature. And the best is to look for botanical names,” he explains.
According to Datuk Siders Sittampalam, managing director of PPC International Sdn Bhd, “Setia Alam is a relatively new and well-planned township with a wide array of amenities and good accessibility.”
He believes it has potential for value appreciation owing to its low density and freehold title, as well as its well-thought-out layout.
“Since the first phase of Setia Alam was launched, the pricing and sales volume of the properties have grown positively.”
Based on PPC International’s research data, houses that are similar in size to those in the third phase, with built-ups of 1,959 sq ft and land area of 1,650 sq ft, were transacted at around RM428,000 in 2009 and RM670,000 in 2020.
“This value appreciation can be attributed to the [fact that it is a] well-planned and self-contained township as it provides good facilities and amenities served by a good network of roads. We believe Setia Alam has enormous potential for value creation in the years to come,” Siders states.
Setia Alam will soon have its own specialist hospital.
“This is the missing piece in our township,” says Tan. Over two acres, or 90,900 sq ft, of land was sold to and will be developed by Setia Alam Specialist Hospital Sdn Bhd, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Sena Healthcare Services Sdn Bhd.
The hospital will have nine storeys and two basement levels. It will have 131 beds, four operation theatres, a cath lab and 22 specialist clinics. The gross floor area is about 393,000 sq ft.
About a 10-minute drive from Bywater Homes is another amenity — a wet market called Pasar Muhibbah. Tan says it was built by S P Setia and will be operated by the local council. The market will provide residents with an alternative location to buy their fresh produce and daily necessities.
Tan estimates the township will be completed by 2030. S P Setia already has plans to develop a 400-acre parcel not far from Setia Alam called Setia Alaman, just across from Jalan Meru.
“We will replicate Setia Alam’s template there and we will launch some time at the end of this year,” he concludes.
S P Setia Bhd’s Setia Alam township, which spans 4,000 acres, has come a long way since it was established in 2004. After selling off part of the former oil palm plantation, S P Setia was left with 2,525 acres, of which about 80% has been developed, says divisional general manager Tan Siow Chung, who has been involved in the Setia Alam development since the beginning.
Setia Alam is easily accessible via various highways and expressways such as the New Klang Valley Expressway, Federal Highway, the upcoming Damansara-Shah Alam Elevated Expressway and West Coast Expressway.
In an interview with City & Country over Zoom, Tan relates how the township has grown over the years, based on the four pillars of Live, Learn, Work and Play.
Under the Live element, there are various residential types for all income groups. Under Learn, there are international schools such as Tenby International School, Idrissi International School and Peninsular International School, and national schools SMK Setia Alam, SK Setia Alam, SJK (C) Pin Hwa 1 and SJK (T) Ladang North Hummock.
Under the Work pillar, several top companies are setting up their head offices in Setia Alam. They include latex glove manufacturer Kossan; car companies such as Audi, BMW, Honda, Mercedes and Toyota; the National Institute of Health and S P Setia itself.
For Play, there are numerous parks and amenities such as the Urban Park, Setia Alam Pasar Malam or night market, and Setia City Mall. Phase 2 of the mall has been completed and it will open in 1Q2021.
According to Tan, these elements have enhanced the popularity of the township. The current population is 80,000 and it is estimated to grow to 170,000 when everything is completed. The latest products at Setia Alam are 2-storey semi-detached houses called Leegeana and 2-storey terraced houses called Conicus in the Bywater Homes precinct.
Tan: In Setia Alam, we are in touch with nature, so we have to get our product names from nature (Photo by S P Setia)
The 80-acre Bywater Homes precinct features homes and elements that encourage residents to spend time outdoors. After a soft launch in 2019, S P Setia launched two phases of terraced and semi-detached houses. The third phase was launched in October 2020 (Conicus) and November 2020 (Leegeana).
Leegeana comprises 52 units of 2-storey semi-detached houses measuring 32ft by 75ft. Type E has a built-up of 2,463 sq ft and a starting price of RM1.065 million while Type F has a built-up from 2,530 sq ft and a starting price of RM1.093 million. The units have a bedroom on the lower level that is ideal for elderly parents. All bedrooms have attached bathrooms. Leegeana has a gross development value (GDV) of RM57 million.
Conicus, meanwhile, has a GDV of RM59 million. There are 75 units of 20ft by 70ft 2-storey terraced houses for purchase. Type E has a built-up of 2,006 to 2,364 sq ft and a starting price of RM753,000 while Type F has a built-up of 1,902 to 2,216 sq ft and a starting price of RM723,000. There is also a ground floor bedroom while all bedrooms will have an attached bathroom.
Tan says because of the successful take-up of previous launches in the precinct of between 90% and 98%, he is confident that the new products will do well, even in the current market conditions.
“There is demand,” he says. “The previous two phases have almost sold out and there is a waiting list for the next launch.
“[Bywater Homes] will be the last parcel in the northern part of the Setia Alam development. What makes Bywater Homes so special is that it is sandwiched between beautiful landscaped areas, waterways and a lake.”
The water elements include the Wetlands Park, which covers 24 acres of the total precinct area, and a stretch of water along the side of the development facing Persiaran Setia Perdana where Gardens of the World is situated. This landscaped tract will incorporate elements inspired by parks and gardens in America, Europe and Asia.
Sandwiching the residential components is the Active Park, which will have a recreational area.
The Conicus Type E houses look like semidees as neighbouring houses have different designs (Photo by S P Setia)
“We noticed that throughout the Setia Alam developments, all the parks are mainly for leisure and there is exercise equipment installed. We realised that there is a lack of amenities for teenagers. Teens like biking, skateboarding and other active sports. These elements will be included in Active Park,” adds Tan.
The name Bywater Homes is derived from the location of the homes by the water. The names of the different products in the precinct, meanwhile, are based on elements of nature.
“In Setia Alam, we are in touch with nature, so we have to get our product names from nature. And the best is to look for botanical names,” he explains.
According to Datuk Siders Sittampalam, managing director of PPC International Sdn Bhd, “Setia Alam is a relatively new and well-planned township with a wide array of amenities and good accessibility.”
He believes it has potential for value appreciation owing to its low density and freehold title, as well as its well-thought-out layout.
“Since the first phase of Setia Alam was launched, the pricing and sales volume of the properties have grown positively.”
Based on PPC International’s research data, houses that are similar in size to those in the third phase, with built-ups of 1,959 sq ft and land area of 1,650 sq ft, were transacted at around RM428,000 in 2009 and RM670,000 in 2020.
“This value appreciation can be attributed to the [fact that it is a] well-planned and self-contained township as it provides good facilities and amenities served by a good network of roads. We believe Setia Alam has enormous potential for value creation in the years to come,” Siders states.
Setia Alam will soon have its own specialist hospital.
“This is the missing piece in our township,” says Tan. Over two acres, or 90,900 sq ft, of land was sold to and will be developed by Setia Alam Specialist Hospital Sdn Bhd, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Sena Healthcare Services Sdn Bhd.
The hospital will have nine storeys and two basement levels. It will have 131 beds, four operation theatres, a cath lab and 22 specialist clinics. The gross floor area is about 393,000 sq ft.
About a 10-minute drive from Bywater Homes is another amenity — a wet market called Pasar Muhibbah. Tan says it was built by S P Setia and will be operated by the local council. The market will provide residents with an alternative location to buy their fresh produce and daily necessities.
Tan estimates the township will be completed by 2030. S P Setia already has plans to develop a 400-acre parcel not far from Setia Alam called Setia Alaman, just across from Jalan Meru.
“We will replicate Setia Alam’s template there and we will launch some time at the end of this year,” he concludes.
Setia Sky Seputeh is the definition of luxury resort living in the heart of Kuala Lumpur.
Inspired by the chic heritage of the quaint neighbourhood of Taman Seputeh, Setia Sky Seputeh is the epitome of freehold luxury resort living located right in the heart of Kuala Lumpur. Promising a lifestyle beyond bespoke, Setia Sky Seputeh prides itself as a modern legacy for generations to come. And with a surge in demands for luxury freehold properties within the city centre, especially amongst urban dwellers, Setia Sky Seputeh offers more than just resort living but a place one would be proud to call home.
The property, developed on 4.4 acres of prime land in Taman Seputeh, is a well-facilitated low-density development features two towers of residences comprising only 290 units, four to six units on each floor. A private lift lobby also adds on to its luxurious and exclusive charm of the condominium.
The attractions and landmarks surrounding Taman Seputeh also make it one of Kuala Lumpur’s most sought-after addresses for residential living. Connected through a direct pedestrian link bridge, Setia Sky Seputeh is only 500-metre away to Mid Valley Megamall and The Gardens Mall — one can literally walk there in minutes.
Defying odds
Imagine coming home to the calming scenery of the surrounding forest amidst the bustling vibes of the city. The orchestra of chirping birds, almost masking the rumbling sounds of engines down below, offering you a playlist of constant serenity while being at home.
And with the home being more important than ever, it is important to choose a space that fits your lifestyle — a happy place that you can work, play, live and love.
Setia Sky Seputeh calls it the Sky Mansion, the condominium units that are designed to be luxuriously spaces and significantly larger than most high-rise condominiums in the city. These units range from 2,303 to 3,025 sqft, comprising three different layouts — Sky Suites (3 unit types from 2,303 – 2,379 sqft), Sky Bungalows (2,616 – 2,885 sqft) and Sky Mansions (2,971 – 3,025 sqft) — for new homeowners to choose from.
With a strong understanding that condo layouts measuring more than 2,000 sqft are generally rather difficult to find, especially those around KLCC area, Setia Sky Seputeh develops desirably larger spaces to cater to the market.
Security and privacy
When it comes to living in a condominium, it is instantly linked to the idea of privacy and quietude that you look forward to when returning home. But one of the key upsides of high-rise living is efficacy in security. Here in Setia Sky Seputeh, its vigilant security systems are constantly and closely monitored to ensure the safety of all its residents.
Compared to a landed property, high-rise living also offers peace and quiet as you isolate yourself when privacy is needed most. Create a private sanctuary within your home, as you can creatively utilise the large layout space to its best potential.
And if you’re a living with a large family, you’d find this music to your ears. Setia Sky Seputeh provides residents with three to four side-by-side carparks to facilitate families with multiple vehicles — so you need not worry about insufficient parking spaces, especially in a high-rise setting.
5-star facilities
Setia Sky Seputeh is also equipped with state-of-the-art facilities aimed to foster healthier lifestyles. While some landed residential projects have clubhouses and more, residents may have limited access to the facilities provided. Here at Setia Sky Seputeh, there are two very different facilities podium that are available for its residents — a Beach Podium on Level 7 and the Sky Rooftop Podium on Level 36.
The Beach Podium on Level 7 comes with 1.5-acre resort-themed facilities, as well as a cocktail bar, virtual gold area and other creature comforts you’d find at a resort. It is also home to Malaysia’s longest man-made podium beach with 700m2 sandy beach.
On Level 36 lies the Sky Rooftop Podium that offers a different experience altogether. The interiors are elevated with beautifully designed spaces with entertainment lounges, gourmet dining facility, heated aqua gym and plenty of Instagram-worthy corners to feed your social media game.
Both facilities podiums also offer sweeping views of the adjacent forest and the cosmopolitan skyline — enabling residents to enjoy the best of both worlds from every vantage point. There is also a central park featuring a dedicated walkway for residents to take morning strolls or evening walks at their convenience.
So sit back and relax, as you marvel at the fine balance of urbanism and tranquility Setia Sky Seputeh has to offer.
Chilling out over some good food used to be one of Malaysians’ favourite pastimes. However, the Covid-19 pandemic has made many think twice about venturing out. While shopping could still be done online, a virtual get-together just doesn’t feel the same without sharing some tasty bites together.
Mask on and hands off is the mantra now. How we wish there were a safe place where we could hang out without having to worry about contracting the SARS CoV-2 virus either through the air we breathe or from touching surfaces with the adhered virus.
Well, the good news is such a place has just been opened. The D’Network in Setia Eco Park is the first F&B hub in Malaysia to be fully fitted with the Panasonic Air-e Device to ensure its workers and patrons enjoy cleaner and safer indoor air quality through the nanoe™X technology.
Unveiled by S P Setia Bhd on Sept 18, 2020, the commercial centre in Setia Alam, Selangor is the latest go-to place for a unique class of dining experiences – from local fare at Kotak Kopi restaurant, to authentic Thai food at Five Seasons Hot Pot, to international flavours at d’Global cuisine by Chef Zubir, an award-winning Malaysian culinary maestro and judge.
Alternatively, we can satisfy our cravings for ocean delectables at the Grand Ya Lim Seafood Restaurant, or unwind at The Grange Restaurant and Bar. For midday boosts, there is San Francisco Coffee, as well as Liana & Dina which also serves cakes and desserts to accompany the cup of Joe.
To meet the lifestyle needs of the community, D’Network houses the Garden Grocer supermarket, a shoes boutique, Thai Odyssey for spa treatment, Community Garden & Services, You & I Insurance, Mail Boxes for delivery point and e-services, and others.
Notably, the neighbourhood retail hub boasts the first international Petanque facility set up in Malaysia. A popular French pastime, the Petanque lawn is equipped with international-standard lanes and high-quality boules to offer some outdoor fun.
A pet-friendly park at D’Network is also expected to draw visitors and their furry friends to come out for a walk among the manicured greens and the cool temperatures accorded by Setia Eco Park’s adjacency to Bukit Cerakah forest reserve.
Another unique attraction in this F&B hub is the musical fountain. Dubbed the Symphony of Sustainability, it is the world’s first dancing water lighted by solar power stored from the day. Diners can even pick songs in advance for special occasions.
A strategic collaboration for a safe community
Taking cognisance of the public’s concern for health and safety especially in light of the outbreak of the easily transmissible SARS CoV-2 virus, S P Setia has taken the initiative to fit out D’Network with Panasonic’s patented air purification technology.
The nanoe™X technology in D’Network is also the first in Malaysia to be operated on solar power, in line with S P Setia’s vision to model a green and sustainable hub that utilises the most energy-efficient design.
The multiple award-winning developer revealed that the brainchild behind these double firsts was Senior Executive Vice President of S P Setia, Datuk Koe Peng Kang, who had thrown out a challenge to Panasonic Malaysia to run the system on renewable resource in the eco hub.
In response, the Panasonic team said it could be done. So instead of using traditional electricity grids, they made some adjustments for the nanoe™X technology to be mechanised by solar panels on top of the D’Network roof.
Generating 345 kWp of hybrid solar energy, D’Network is the country’s first F&B hub which effectively runs on power from the sun.
Spanning 3.16 acres, the entire D’Network’s indoor area – including its dining, retail, grocery, spa and community activities – is fully installed with the Panasonic Air-e Device (nanoe™X) to curb pathogenic microorganisms in both airborne and on adhered surfaces.
“Panasonic and S P Setia’s collaboration presents indeed a very smart and timely technological breakthrough to tackle the invisible threat of the Covid-19 pandemic. By equipping our outlets with nanoe™X operated by all-day solar-power, we can offer 24-hour active air purification – all whilst being environmentally friendly,” said Koe.
“In today’s health-conscious world, we care about exercising, eating right and hygiene, as well as the air we breathe. As a conscientious and trusted brand, we want to help create not just a better environment but also better air quality within that environment.
“We are truly excited to collaborate with Panasonic in creating this solar-powered, patented nanoe™X air purification system that would be beneficial to all. We hope to set a leading example to the rest in offering another level of safety and security to the communities we build. Staying true to our development philosophy, we strive to provide our patrons and the whole community more sustainable live, learn, work and play experiences,” Koe added.
Meanwhile, the managing director of QAFL Business Promotion Office of Panasonic (for Asia Pacific region), Ichiro Suganuma, said: “This collaboration between S P Setia and Panasonic signifies another great partnership between us, and marks yet another application of nanoe™X technology in providing safe and quality air in commercial spaces such as D’ Network. Under the new normal, we continue to place our customers’ health and safety as top priority while maintaining their comfort and user experience as our common goal.”
A breakthrough technology that inhibits SARS-CoV-2 which causes Covid-19
Explaining the breakthrough innovation, Suganuma says the nanoe™X technology takes its inspiration from nature.
While we know taking a breather in the outdoors has a refreshing effect, we may not be aware this is mainly because the atmosphere is constantly cleansed by a natural detergent called hydroxyl radicals. This oxidising element found abundantly in open air works like soldiers that disarm undesirable pollutants from their harmful effects, making the natural surroundings smell fresh and clean.
Recognising the power of hydroxyl radicals, the Panasonic team began an extensive research and found that they have the ability to act on almost every hazardous substance including odours, mites, moulds, pollen, animal dander, allergens, fungi, pesticide residues, bacteria and viruses.
In its pursuit to provide safer environments to enhance the quality of life for all, the team laboured for 20 years and finally, at the turn of the millennium, achieved a breakthrough invention in producing hydroxyl radicals synthetically.
By applying high voltage to moisture from the air, they have created nano-sized (5-20nm) electrostatic atomised water particles containing hydroxyl radicals. More than that, the hydroxyl radicals contained in water also survive 10 times longer and spread much wider than its general counterpart.
Incorporated into Panasonic’s nanoe™X Generator Mark 1 technology, the system can generate 4.8 trillion of hydroxyl radicals per second to effectively combat organic pollutants within indoor settings. The strongly oxidative and highly reactive ion is also capable of penetrating deep into fabrics to deodorise frequently encountered odours such as cigarette smoke and dampness.
Among its latest milestones, Texcell*1, a global research organisation sited in France, has recently certified the nanoe™X is even capable of neutralising over 99.99% of the SARS-CoV-2 activity in a controlled 45L test space within two hours.
“At Panasonic, we are committed to devote ourselves in enhancing people’s lives through our innovative products and technology. nanoe™X is our proud patented technology which is embedded in Panasonic air quality devices such as air conditioners and air-E diffusers, providing quality air that will help to inhibit viruses (including novel coronavirus) and other allergens which will mitigate risks to air quality and provide quality air for life,” said managing director of Panasonic Malaysia Sdn Bhd Cheng Chee Chung.
KUALA LUMPUR (Jan 7): CGS-CIMB Research gathered that S P Setia Bhd plans to launch projects worth up to RM3.7 billion in gross development value (GDV) in financial year 2021 (FY21), versus the RM2.8 billion planned GDV in FY20F, out of which about 94% will be in Malaysia.
“Some 54% of the total new launches would be projects with properties priced below RM1 million each, with the rest comprising properties priced above RM1 million each. In terms of product mix, about 67% will be landed residential units, followed by condominiums and apartments (14%), commercial units (9%), serviced apartments (4%), affordable housing (4%), and industrial units (2%),” said CGS-CIMB analyst Ngo Siew Teng in a report today.
“Notable launches will be in Setia Alam, Setia Eco Hill 1&2, Setia Alamsari, Bandar Kinrara, Temasya Glenmarie, Taman Pelangi, Setia Tropika, and Setia Fontaines,” Ngo added.
The local research house hosted S P Setia’s management yesterday at the former’s annual Malaysia Virtual Corporate Day.
Ngo also pointed out that S P Setia is on track to hit FY20 sales target.
“S P Setia has guided for new sales of RM3.8 billion for FY20. As at Oct 31, 2020, it had secured about RM2.8 billion worth of new sales and a booking pipeline of RM1.7 billion. Given the pickup in sales momentum post-Movement Control Order and a good product mix skewed towards landed homes, the group should be able to achieve its FY20 sales target, in our view. We observe that its inventory of completed properties declined to RM1 billion in 3Q20 from RM1.4 billion in 4Q19, due to its ongoing monetisation efforts,” Ngo stated.
She added that S P Setia has resumed its work at most of its project sites, at 80%-90% of the manpower capacity in compliance with the standard operating procedures to curb the spread of the Covid-19 pandemic.
The analyst expects the group to set a FY21F new sales target similar to its FY20 target and it would be mainly supported by local projects.
CGS-CIMB has an add call for the stock with an unchanged target price of RM1.06.
“We are positive on S P Setia given its attractive valuation (0.3x FY21F P/BV, lower than peer average of 0.4x), massive land bank to cater for changes in consumer preferences, and anticipated earnings improvement in FY21-22F,” noted Ngo.
“We see limited downside as the stock has been trading at a trough valuation of c.0.3x P/BV since 2001. Stronger earnings delivery in FY21-22F and undemanding valuations are its key potential rerating catalysts,” she added.
At the time of writing, S P Setia stock was down 2.09% or two sen to 94 sen. Its market capitalisation was at RM3.84 billion.
Residents in Pinang Tunggal and Bertam in Penang will now be able to purchase fresh farm products at the nearby Healthy Eco Leisure Lifestyle Opportunity (Hello) Market.
Set up to resemble the internationally renowned Camden Market in London, or the Paddy’s Market in Sydney, the urban grocery market on mainland Penang is a joint collaboration between the state government and local developer SP Setia Berhad.
Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow said farmers from the nearby areas could showcase their fresh products at the market.
“This new facility will also give the opportunity to consumers to get their daily fresh food and vegetables at an affordable price, ” he said after launching the Hello Market at S.P Setia Fontaines on Sunday.
Among the items available at the market are guavas, jackfruits, corns, bitter gourds, long beans and other fresh vegetables.
Earlier, SP Setia executive vice president Datuk Koe Peng Kang said the company hoped that the market would empower farmers especially the smallholders and producers to market their products.
“This is our first step to becoming a trade centre that connects the sellers and the buyers.
“We also hope that the farmers can generate better returns selling their products here, ” he said.
For a start, the Hello Market will be held once a month on every first Sunday morning with about 30 farmers taking part.
Also present during the launch were state exco members Yeoh Soon Hin and Soon Lip Chee, Seberang Prai City Council mayor Datuk Rozali Mohamud, councillor Ooi Yong Wooi, and SP Setia division general manager Ricky Yeo.
FOLLOWING a global election conducted virtually at the International Real Estate Federation (FIABCI) General Assembly on Dec 16, Datuk Koe Peng Kang was appointed as the vice president of FIABCI Asia Pacific, effective May 2021 to May 2023.
With a background of a professional civil engineer, Koe has more than three decades of experience in the fields of engineering, construction, infrastructure works, property development.
Prior to joining S P Setia, Datuk Koe was involved in numerous national projects including the Malaysia Rural Water Supply Scheme and the implementation of the Sungai Selangor Water Supply Phase 1.
He was also part of the Samsung C&T Corporate led South Korean Consortium in its implementation work for the Petronas Twin Towers.
Datuk Koe will be serving together with David Tang from FIABCI Taiwan, Meiko Handoyo from FIABCI Indonesia for the two-year term effective May 2021, under the presidency by Peter Koh from FIABCI Singapore.
Datuk Koe is no stranger to the real estate industry. He joined S P Setia, Malaysia’s leading property developer since 1997 and has held various positions in the Group.
Within the next 30 years, he advanced rapidly through various business and operational roles and is currently the senior executive vice president in the group.
He is responsible for the overall oversight, including the management and supervision of major projects in the group notably pioneering the multi-award-winning eco-themed developments namely Setia Eco Park, Setia Eco Glades, Setia Eco Templer and Setia Warisan Tropika in the central region of Peninsular Malaysia. – Dec 19, 2020
PETALING JAYA (Dec 14): S P Setia Bhd clinched the top spot in The Edge Malaysia Top Property Developers Awards (TPDA) 2020, marking the fifth consecutive year the company won the spot. It dropped to third and fourth positions in 2014 and 2015 respectively, before regaining the title in 2016.
S P Setia president and chief executive officer (CEO) Datuk Khor Chap Jen said the developer is elated to be awarded top honours for the 13th time.
“This would be impossible if not for the strong teamwork we have at Setia. It hasn’t been easy as we have been facing strong headwinds with the soft market and in addition to that, the unprecedented Covid-19 pandemic. No industry has been spared, but our team spirit persevered, and we rose up to overcome the odds by continuing to deliver our best. I would like to dedicate this win to Team Setia,” he added.
It has also earned two other awards, namely The Edge Malaysia Affordable Urban Housing Excellence Award for Sri Pinang Apartments in Setia Alam and The Edge Malaysia Outstanding Overseas Project Award for Parque in Melbourne.
S P Setia and Sunway Bhd — property division (No 3) are the winners of the Best in Qualitative Attributes sub-award.
Rounding the top 10 are Sime Darby Property Bhd (No 2), UOA Development Bhd (No 4), IJM Land Bhd (No 5), Gamuda Bhd — property division (No 5), UEM Sunrise Bhd (No 6), IOI Properties Group Bhd (No 6), Mah Sing Group Bhd (No 7), Eco World Development Group Bhd (EcoWorld) (No 8), Tropicana Corporation Bhd (No 9) and IGB Bhd (No 10).
IJM Land and Gamuda — property division shared the rank at No 5, while UEM Sunrise and IOI Properties shared the No 6 spot. Meanwhile, UOA Development won the Best in Quantitative Attributes sub-award.
The TPDA is evaluated based on both qualitative and quantitative attributes. In the qualitative category, judges evaluate each company based on its expertise, image, innovation and creativity, product quality and the value it creates for buyers.
Under the quantitative category, companies are evaluated based on their shareholders’ funds, turnover, profitability and cash or gearing. The scores and rankings for the TPDA are audited by Deloitte Malaysia.
The TPDA anchors TEPEA, which has in recent years expanded to include other sub-awards such as The Edge Malaysia-PEPS Value Creation Excellence Award, The Edge Malaysia-PAM Green Excellence Award, The Edge Malaysia Affordable Urban Housing Excellence Award, The Edge Malaysia Outstanding Property CEO Award and The Edge Malaysia Outstanding Overseas Project Award.
The Edge Media Group publisher and group CEO Datuk Ho Kay Tat noted that the TEPEA awards serve not just to recognise the best in property development but also to guide buyers who are looking for properties to buy. The idea is to help them make better decisions, especially during this period.
“Nations across the globe are facing an unprecedented pandemic and Malaysia is not excluded with businesses being badly affected. Nevertheless, we believe not only will strong players survive this challenging time, they will come out even stronger by adapting to the market needs.
“These awards provide a guide to the public on the strongest and best real estate players in the country. TEPEA has become an industry benchmark for companies which have sustainable financial strength and delivered quality products to their customers to be used as a home or as an investment asset,” said Ho.
In partnership with the Malaysian Institute of Architects, The Edge Malaysia-PAM Green Excellence Award recognises projects that demonstrate sustainable design innovation while contributing positively to the community. The winner is KLoe Hotel in Kuala Lumpur. Meanwhile, Sia Boey Urban Archaeological Park Phase 1 in Penang received the honourary mention.
The Edge Malaysia Affordable Urban Housing Excellence Award, which honours affordable housing projects for the urban middle-income group undertaken wholly by Malaysian private developers, has been awarded to joint winners Karisma Eco Majestic by EcoWorld and Sri Pinang Apartments by S P Setia. Both projects are in the Klang Valley.
The Edge Malaysia Outstanding Overseas Project Award has joint winners this year — London City Island by Eco World International Bhd and Parque in Melbourne by S P Setia.
The Edge Malaysia Property Excellence Awards is presented by City & Country, the property pullout of The Edge Malaysia weekly and supported by EdgeProp.my.
Edited by Erlynda Jacqui Chan
One kind word can warm three winter months: This Japanese proverb resonates strongly within the global context of the Covid-19 pandemic, terrorism and election drama in the United States.
With World Kindness Day having been marked on Nov 13, let’s remember that a simple act of kindness can have positive effects not only on its recipient, but also on its giver. So what do you have to lose?
Many studies conducted in the past have showcased the effects of good deeds, empathy and altruism on different types of stress.
A recent study on the subject, published in the journal Psychological Bulletin, showed a direct link between prosocial behaviour and well-being.
A team of researchers performed a meta-analysis of 201 studies comprising 198,213 participants in total.
They concluded that there is a direct association between better physical and mental health, and prosocial behaviour.
However, there are certain disparities depending on the deed.
Random acts of kindness, like helping your elderly neighbour carry his or her groceries conveyed more well-being than scheduled volunteering for a charity.
But that doesn’t mean that you should quit doing the latter!
“Prosocial behaviour – altruism, cooperation, trust and compassion – are all necessary ingredients of a harmonious and well-functioning society.
“It is part of the shared culture of humankind and our analysis shows that it also contributes to mental and physical health, ” said lead author and University of Hong Kong assistant professor Bryant P.H. Hui.
If kindness is first and foremost selfless, then as long as it is spontaneous and altruistic, it can also contribute to the giver’s own good and boost his or her health.
Last year, researchers founded the Bedari Kindness Institute as part of the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA).
Its main goal is to help the public and to inspire leaders towards more kindness to build more humane societies.
“In the midst of current world politics, violence and strife, the UCLA Bedari Kindness Institute seeks to be an antidote, ” said UCLA social sciences division dean Darnell Hunt in an announcement about its launch.
One of the many benefits of kindness extolled by this institute is the fact that it prolongs life.
Benevolence could have positive effects on blood pressure and the immune system.
Scientists have noted that the reverse was also true. Being treated with contempt or indifference can shorten our life expectancy.
Good deeds therefore have positive effects for both giver and receiver.
And if you need more proof to adopt such behaviour, know that altruism, compassion and benevolence can also help fight depression and boost self-esteem. — AFP Relaxnews
PETALING JAYA (Nov 6): S P Setia Bhd has hoped for the government to taking the lead role in building affordable housing for the B40 income group as this will enable a more cohesive, consistent and efficient macro implementation and results while the developers can concentrate fully on the free market housing.
“However, developers can contribute to a fund for this purpose,” S P Setia Bhd president and CEO Datuk Khor Chap Jen (pictured) said in the post-budget feedback statement today.
Applauding the efforts of the government as laid out in Budget 2021 today by Finance Minister Datuk Seri Tengku Zafrul Tengku Aziz, the developer stated that the initiative to provide comfortable and quality housing to the B40 category will be of much help. It was announced during the tabling of the Budget that the government will be allocating RM1.2 billion to this initiative which include building more homes under the People’s Housing Project (PPR), Rumah Mesra Rakyat by Syarikat Perumahan Negara Berhad (SPNB) and Malaysia Civil Servants Housing Programme (PPAM); maintenance of low and medium-low cost strata-housing; and upgrading old houses and those damaged by natural disasters.
Besides that, the developer also lauded the government’s decision to provide Rent-to-Own (RtO) schemes for those eligible under the 1Malaysia People’s Housing Scheme (PR1MA).
“It would help ease the homeowners’ challenge to come up with the upfront down payments. We do, however, hope that the government would consider extending this scheme (RtO) beyond PR1MA as more eligible homebuyers will be able to benefit from this effort,” said Khor. Under Budget 2021, the government will be partnering with selected financial institutions to prepare 5,000 PR1MA housing units worth more than RM1 billion for first-time homebuyers only.
He added that the exemption of stamp duty on the Memorandum of Transfer (MoT) and legal fees will help to spur sales from first-time homebuyers. “Waiving this duty is a good move to help boost interest as it lessens the affordability gap for first-time homebuyers,” noted Khor. This exemption is valid for the purchase of the first home priced below RM500,000 with agreements signed from Jan 1, 2021 to Dec 31, 2025.
Meanwhile, the decision to spend on large infrastructure projects will provide a big boost to the overall economy as well, Khor said. “It will impact the entire supply chain and rejuvenate the economy. By extension, it encourages real estate development over a larger area,” said Khor.
PETALING JAYA: Nearly a thousand students and teachers have been trained to be “Kindness Ambassadors” to spread positivity amid the Covid-19 pandemic – with help from some of the country’s most famous celebrities.
The online-based #StandTogether Kindness Workshops, funded by Unicef Malaysia as part of R.AGE and S P Setia’s #StandTogether Kindness Movement, has reached eight states so far, receiving glowing reviews from students and teachers who have participated.
“I feel a lot more educated on empathy and kindness after this workshop, ” added Pritika Nagaraj, 15, a student from SMK Convent Green Lane, Penang.
“Bullying is something we see around us all the time and we can feel like giving up, but workshops like these encourage us to take action, and overcome these challenges.”
“I am looking forward to sharing this experience with my friends, and am going to encourage them to be kinder to others, ” said Jamal Harith, a student participant from SMK Raja Chulan, Kuala Lumpur.
A special session is also aimed at teachers, who are given training on how to impart kindness and empathy to students, and to practise positive reinforcement instead of resorting to physical or emotional punishment.
“I am very happy the workshop has continued despite the change in circumstances, and this year there’s focus on developing empathy, which is really important, ” said SMK Paduka Tuan teacher Salzul Rahman, 38.
“My students are more aware of the nuances of bullying and I hope, moving forward, this workshop can be expanded further.”
The Kindness Workshops, endorsed by the Education Ministry, is a free online gathering for students with interactive games and activities to improve their empathy skills.
Workshops end with surprise appearances and motivational conversations by #StandTogether celebrity ambassadors such as Jinnyboy, Arwind Kumar, Lisa Surihani, Harith Iskander, Ismail Izzani, Nik Qistina, Farah Ann Abdul Hadi and more.
Schools and individual students can join by signing up for free at www.standtogether.my/kindnessworkshop. Certificates and co-curricular points are available for participants.
The #StandTogether National Kindness Week campaign was founded in 2017 by R.AGE and S P Setia to kickstart a “Kindness Revolution” in Malaysia, after becoming alarmed at the level of violence against children both in schools and online.
“It is easy to forget about kindness in the midst of this pandemic where many parents struggle with the uncertainties ahead for the families, ” said S P Setia head of group branding and communications Adelene Wong.
“These workshops are crucial reminders to our children and ourselves – that a little kindness, no matter how small, may have the biggest impact on others, ” she added.
This year’s Kindness Workshop programme was developed by empathy training experts Tribeless, and delivered by education programme organisers Study Hub Asia.
“We’re big believers in making empathy as practical and actionable as possible, so we integrated lots of experiential learning into the programme, and 90% of it are discussions, games and storytelling in small groups, ” said Tribeless founder Wong Gwen Yi.
“From the workshop, we found that bullying can happen to anyone, regardless of ethnicity, gender and seniority in school, ” said Study Hub co-founder Brian Law.
“A lot more needs to be done to promote empathy and kindness to break the cycle of violence against children.”
Ten more Kindness Workshop sessions are scheduled in October and early November, and will be open to all schools in Malaysia.
Unicef Malaysia will organise two sessions specially for individual participants (open to all below 25), as part of its KitaConnect youth network on Telegram, on Nov 3 and 4. Registration is at www.standtogether.my/kindnessworkshop-public.
R.AGE and S P Setia are also running the #StandTogether Kindness Leadership Programme, an online fellowship for all students from now until the year’s end, during which students can pitch for up to RM1,000 in a grant for Kindness Projects in their schools.
To sign up for all #StandTogether programmes, go to www.standtogether.my.
