Fw. A Violent Mamak in Penang

 If you are really a Chinese, please stop patronizing a mamak business!
  

Stop sending your cars to BEYOND for washing. The tall guy right behind Ghani is the owner of the BEYOND in Arratoon Road . Pg.
 

All the Chinese must unite and teach these mamaks a good lesson.

Don't go to Mydin store and don't eat at any mamak outlets.
 

A Mamak : Political hatred without any sense ... Antics of Mohamed Ghani Abd Jiman                                       
Watch the incident here
http://www.gotopenang.com/content/mohd-ghani-businessman-komtar-penang-brought-coffin-adun-komtar-ng-wei-aik


 Last Saturday, a mamak from Penang by the name of Mohamed Ghani Abd Jiman bought 2 coffins and sent them to Pg Minister Lim Guan Eng and Komtar assemblyman Ng Wei Aik. You can read the news at, for those who don't already know:

http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2011/3/13/nation/8258879&sec=nation

This Mamak had also threatened Lim to a fistfight previously.

If this mamak had taken the time to do some fact finding, he would have found out that in Chinese culture, to a living person receiving a coffin, it is actually an auspicious event. That's why a lot of older Chinese buy a coffin and keep it in their houses for use when they die.   It is believed that having such a coffin can bring good luck and fortune and keep death away.   However the mischievious person sending the coffin to a living person will have, excuse the pun 'grave' consequences coming his way!

The mamaks of Penang have been very vocal and very much against the Chinese there. Even Gerakan, a BN component party had been on the receiving end of their foul mouths. A few years ago, and I can't recall what actually happened, the Chinese there started boycotting mamak businesses, especially their restaurants and foodstalls.  And it was effective!

Their businesses started suffering.   One restaurant owner complained that the Chinese were putting sand onto their rice bowls.   Its our money...our choice ! Served them right.   I recall that some Chinese even boycotted some gas stations on suspicions that it belong to mamaks. They use their foul mouths, we use our economic strength.   It's all cause and effect!....since authorities are not doing anything to stop his schoolboy pranks, so its one thing after another and getting bolder and bolder thinking he has gain support even from the police !

So why am I sending this email to you?   I am hoping to start a viral email to all and sundry to start doing the same.   Avoid all mamak businesses all over Malaysia . Mydin stores are mamak-owned so for those of you who want to help in this campaign, you know what to do.     Boycott racist Petronas too.

Mamaks don't do much business with Chinese, so there's no threat from them.
But still some local Chinese do patronise mamak eateries.......
High time All of Us refrain from eating mamak food !
Please send this email to as many of your friends as possible. There are already other people in the blog world doing the same. Teach these mamaks a lesson!

If you're hungry for teh tarik and roti canai, go to Indian restaurants/stalls instead !

GOV: Official email account for each M'sian adult

Official email account for each M'sian adult

All Malaysians who are 18 years old and above will be assigned an email account each in order to receive statements, bills and notices from the Government.

The initiative would allow direct and secure communication between the public and the Government, said Tricubes Bhd chief executive officer Khairun Zainal Mokhtar.

Tricubes Bhd is the company developing the 1Malaysia Email project in collaboration with Microsoft.
Khairun said Tricubes Bhd would also spearhead the development of a web portal which would include social networking services, online bill checking and payments.

"Currently, the company is still running stress test for the portal.

"Hopefully, we can get it ready by July this year," he told a press conference at the fifth progress update of the Economic Transformation Programme in here, Tuesday.

Published  on The Star, April 19 2011

 Thursday March 3, 2011

Forbes: Rich Malaysians get richer

SINGAPORE: The 40 wealthiest Malaysians are worth US$62.1bil (RM186.3bil), up by US$11.1bil (RM33.3bil) compared with last year, according to the latest rich list published by Forbes Asia.
In a statement Thursday, Forbes Asia said the combined wealth was almost 22 percent more than the list in 2010.

“The better coffers come on the back of the country’s healthy economy which grew 7.2 per cent last year, the highest rate since 2000,” it said.

The first two spots were still occupied by Robert Kuok Hock Nien and Ananda Krishnan, respectively.
Kuok, 87, has held the pole position since 2006 when Forbes Asia began ranking the 40 richest Malaysians.
He is worth US$12.5bil, up by half a billion from last year.

His biggest source of wealth is his stake in Wilmar International, the world’s largest listed palm oil company.
Ananda, 72, is at No. 2 with US$9.5bil, up from US$8.1bil last year.

His Maxis Communications Bhd is Malaysia’s biggest cellphone service provider.

Recently he took three of his companies private: satellite broadcaster Astro All Asia Networks plc, power and gambling company Tanjong plc, and satellite operator Measat Global Bhd.

At No. 3 is this year’s biggest gainer in dollar terms, Puan Sri Lee Kim Hua.
The 81-year-old widow of casino magnate Tan Sri Lim Goh Tong, she is one of three women on the list this year.

Her Genting shares took off when the company’s Singapore operations on Sentosa Island opened, boosting the family’s net worth by US$2.7bil to $6.6bil from a year ago.

Tan Sri Lee Shin Cheng, who built IOI Group into one of the world’s biggest palm oil producers, is down one spot at No. 4 with a net worth of $5bil, up by US$400mil from last year.

AirAsia Bhd’s Datuk Seri Tony Fernandes, budget airline pioneer and Forbes Asia’s 2010 Businessman of the Year, is ranked No. 20 this year, down one spot from last year despite his wealth increasing to US$470mil from $330mil last year.

The only newcomer this year is Chia Song Kun at No. 24 with US$400mil.

The share price of his QL Resources Bhd, the seafood, egg production and palm oil company, has doubled since last year. Datuk Tony Tiah Thee Kian at No. 35 is the only returnee to the list after a year’s absence as stocks in his TA Enterprise Bhd has recovered. He is worth $170mil.

Not all did well as there were three this year who saw their wealth reduced, led by Tan Sri Vincent Tan Chee Yioun at No. 9.  The self-made entrepreneur, who runs Berjaya Group, saw his wealth decline to $1.25bil from $1.6bil last year.

Timber tycoon Tan Sri Tiong Hiew King was the only person who did not see any change to his wealth. He is still worth $1.2 billion and is ranked No. 10 on the list.

This year, a minimum net worth of US$125mil was needed to qualify for the list, up from $110mil last year. The number of billionaires on the list remains unchanged from last year at 10. There are six octogenarians on the list this year.

The oldest, at 88, is widow Puan Sri Chong Chook Yew who comes in at No. 29 with a wealth of US$300mil.

Stocks in her company, Selangor Properties Bhd, hit a three-year high in January this year on news of a possible mass transit development near one of the company’s land banks.
This pushed her wealth up by US$70mil from last year.

SOURCE:
http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2011/3/3/nation/20110303200118&sec=nation

Another more detailed website...  Full Top 40 lists:
http://business.asiaone.com/Business/News/My%2BMoney/Story/A1Story20110303-266320.html

MY (Jeff LIM's opinion):


These lists only consists of "Public Limited Companies" tycoons.  But where's YTL Boss (Francis Yeoh)?  He was consistently in the top 10 over the last few years.

Note that there's absense of any Rich Bumiputras.  Eg. TM Boss, Tenaga Boss, Petronas Boss, Maybank Boss, NAZA Boss (that Nasarudin Nasimuddin) is FILTHY RICH.  He's a Developer (NAZA TTDI), AP King, Ferrari, Chevrolet, Peugeot, NazaKia, Maserati, Harley Davidson, and Ducati distributors.  Also, he owned BUBBA GUMP Shrimp restaurants and many more.   I'm sure he's a Multi-BILLIONAIRE by now.   Why is he NOT IN THE LIST?  How about other AP kings?  Is there some cover-ups???

100th post: ARTICLE: Chick magnets

The Star LIFESTYLE: Saturday February 12, 2011

Chick magnets

Stories by LEE MEI LI
meili@thestar.com.my

Dogs are not only lovable companions, they can also help you attract attention from the right crowd.

It’s bright and early on a Saturday morning, and T. Siva is out walking his tiny, 3½-year-old Pug, Pugly. A lady struts past, but not before she does a double take.

“He’s so cute!” she coos, as Pugly happily pitter-patters away on the pavement.

Kumanan Parimalam and girlfriend Sattiya Marthanden with Labrador, Sweetie.

 

Undoubtedly, nothing attracts attention faster than a pet lover and an adorable pup in tow. What usually ensues is a friendly exchange of words — a moment that marks the discovery of new acquaintances.
“I think there’s no doubt that Pugly attracts women,” says Siva, 36, a writer. “She seldom fails. In fact, she even attracts celebrities. Once, I was walking Pugly at a park when a certain celebrity, who was also out walking three of her Pugs, ran over to say hi and we started chatting. My friends have a nickname for Pugly: ‘The Magnet’.”

Aside from being great companions, dogs are sometimes known as “chick magnets”. Just Google “How to use my dog to attract women”, and sure enough, you’ll get a thousand hits on forums dedicated to showing you the A-to-Z in mastering the subject. If you’re single and eligible, chances are, you won’t be getting any strangers walking up to you just to strike up a conversation every day. Nor would you do the same, no matter how attractive the other person may be.

But if you have a dog by your side, well, that’s a different story.

“Women would see you differently, as opposed to if you were just alone at a café. Most times they see my dog first, then they look at me and smile — as if to say, OK, you’re quite safe to talk to,” says Siva.
Attributing this to a woman’s “maternal instincts”, Siva adds, “I guess having a dog is like having a daughter or a son — you suddenly seem capable of having kids.”

Leong Suet Wah with Miniature Pinscher, Xiao Xiao. 

 

Men who own dogs aren’t just pet lovers, it seems — they are perceived to be someone who is generally more loving and caring. However, “caring” wasn’t the first thought that came to mind when Yap Wan Ying first met her then-colleague, video editor Kam Chee Lap, 30, and Christmas, his Toy Poodle.

“My first impression was ‘How pathetic!’ He doesn’t have a girlfriend — he’s just a guy with a dog,” recalls media executive Yap, 24.

Nevertheless, Yap would always fawn over Christmas whenever Kam brought the tiny, snow-white pup to the office for a quick visit on the weekends.

“I found Christmas very cute! He quickly became the centre of attraction in the office,” says Yap.
Before long, Yap found herself making plans to meet up with Kam to visit Christmas beyond work.
“I would go to his house or meet him at a park because I wanted to play with the dog,” she says.
Now, more than three years later, Yap no longer deems Kam “pathetic” — well, he’s now her boyfriend and all. Undeniably, their relationship developed over the love for a dog. The two are now also the proud owners of a two-year-old Pomeranian, Cooper.

Yap Wan Ying (right) and Kam Chee Lap with their Pomeranian, Cooper and Toy Poodle, Christmas.

 

“Kam seemed like a loner at first but when I got to know him better, I realised that he was someone that I could rely on,” Yap reveals, highlighting Kam’s commitment in caring for his pet.

“Taking care of a dog is not that easy. But every weekend, he would spend four to five hours just to bathe and groom Christmas. It showed me that he had a lot of patience,” she adds.

Lopsided attraction

If dogs are chick magnets for men, it follows that they also naturally become male magnets for women, right? Wrong.

Handicraft artist C. L. Yam and her 2½-year-old Miniature Schnauzer, Marco, only attracts “aunties and uncles”. Her explanation for this? “Eligible bachelors hardly hang around at parks,” says Yam, who is in her 30s.

For Samantha Hepburn and her six-year-old Miniature Schnauzer, Jang Gun, all they ever attract are kids and “sometimes, a curious grandma or two.” The 25-year-old writer and cartoonist believes that the doggie philosophy is more biased towards guys.

“I don’t think it works for girls. Plus, I don’t know how comfortable I’d be with a guy cooing, sighing and fawning all over my dog,” she opines.

Property negotiator Leong Suet Wah, 54, does attract the attention of men with her little Miniature Pinscher, Xiao Xiao, albeit for entirely different reasons.

“When Xiao Xiao was very small, I would put her in a bag and bring her shopping. Once, I entered a pharmacy and a security guard waved me over — I thought maybe I couldn’t bring her in. But all the guard said was, ‘Can I hold her?’” Leong recalls.

While dogs may appear to be more of a man’s best friend than a woman’s, Leong believes that the trick could work with either gender for the younger generation.
“If you’re younger and you have a dog, you’ll definitely attract more attention from the opposite sex. It happens all the time during doggie tournaments,” she says.

You are what you own

Now before you run out and grab the first dog you see, do consider a few things beforehand.
Bigger dogs, for example, can be a handful — they need lots of free space and plenty of exercise. They need a lot of your time. Small toy breeds, on the other hand, are considered to be more “convenient”.

Samantha Hepburn with Jang Gun. — ART CHEN & BRIAN MOH/The Star and DOG OWNERS

 

Big or small, the real question is: What will people think of when they cross paths with you and your dog?
Sales manager Kumanan Parimalam, 26, believes that you are what you own.

“The way you communicate with a particular breed shows people who you are.
For me, I like big dogs because I like to be dominant,” he says, giving his panting Labrador, Sweetie, a pet on the head.

On this, his girlfriend Sattiya Marthanden, 27, agrees.

“Men who own small dogs are more of a ‘follower’,” says the enquiry officer. For Hepburn, men with a penchant for purse-sized pooches appear to be less “outdoorsy”. Conversely, women who own Chihuahuas and Poodles reflect a “prissy” personality, says Siva.

The type of dog you choose also determines whether you are indeed single or attached, so be sure to send out the right signals.

“If a guy walks around with a Shih-Tzu, I will think that he already has a girlfriend,” says Yap.
Undeniably, different breeds will attract different kinds of people.

“If you have a smaller dog, I think you would attract more women, teenage girls and children. For medium-sized dogs like mine, the target audience is mixed. For larger dogs, they only attract people who are brave enough to approach them, unless they look adorable — like Huskies,” Kumanan observes.
Nevertheless, Kumanan believes that a well-trained pup attracts more people on the whole — men or women.

“Popular breeds automatically attract people to you,” he says.

While owning smaller dogs may seem less “macho” for men, the fact is, women are usually attracted to all things cute and cuddly. Besides, Hollywood stars Mickey Rourke and Sean “P. Diddy” Combs have made it OK for men to own smaller dogs; Rourke’s Chihuahua has since passed on; Combs has a little white Maltese.

Bigger dogs are definitely more masculine, but they are also less friendly looking and more likely to scare away any potential soulmate you might be hoping to snare. Nevertheless, getting a dog is not a surefire way of attracting a potential girlfriend or boyfriend. What ensues really depends on you, and not your dog — so brush up on your conversational skills and learn how to use your pup as an icebreaker, and not as the topic of discussion in every conversation.

Remember also that dogs need plenty of love and care from a responsible owner. They may not always help you attract company, but they’re always great companions.

Think about adopting a dog this Valentine’s Day, who knows what joy it might bring you?

Related Stories:
Male magnets
Macho dogs

The Star Online:SOURCE

Published: Tuesday January 11, 2011 MYT 9:34:00 AM
Updated: Tuesday January 11, 2011 MYT 3:07:33 PM

It is 11111 today

KUALA LUMPUR: Today, Tuesday, it is 11111.

That is, the 11th day of January in the year 2011, or 11/1/11.
On January 1, it was 1111 or first day of January 2011 or 1/1/11.

On the first day of November, it will also be 11111 or 1/11/11 and on the 11th of November, it will be another 1 added on to make it 111111 or 11/11/11.

When will the next such thing happen? Perhaps on the second day of February 2022 - 2222 or 2/2/22.

Top 25 most viewed Malaysian Sites...

The Star, Thursday January 6, 2011

Star Online is No.1 news site

SOURCE: http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2011/1/6/nation/7745276&sec=nation

KUALA LUMPUR: The Star Online (thestar.com.my) is the top news portal visited by Malaysians, according to a website rankings list released by the Malaysian Digital Association (MDA).
 
The latest list is based on both local and international websites visited by over 17 million Internet users in Malaysia.

According to the list, the second most visited news website in the country was malaysiakini.com, followed by hmetro.com.my, utusan.com.my and bharian.com.my.

Overall, The Star Online is the third most visited local website, behind mudah.my and lowyat.net.
The Star’s Malay news portal mstar.com.my, and biz.thestar.com.my were positioned in the top 25 of the most viewed local websites, ranking 18th and 22nd respectively.

In the combined list of international and local websites most visited by Malaysians, social media site Facebook topped the rankings, followed by Yahoo and Google.

The Star Online is ranked No. 9 in the combined list, malaysiakini.com (11th), hmetro.com.my (13th), utusan.com.my (14th) and themalaysianinsider.com (23rd).

The MDA report was compiled by Effective Measure (www.effectivemeasure.com) and serves as a guide to the surfing habits of Malaysian netizens.

The MDA is the representative body comprising digital publishers, advertising agencies, creative agencies and digital service providers.

END OF ARTICLE...

That's all folks, thanks for having the time and patience to read this blog entry...

The Star: Buyers to pay more after second house

The Star, Thursday November 4, 2010

Buyers to pay more after second house

KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysians have to fork out more money from today to buy more than two houses after Bank Negara slammed the brakes on property speculation.

The central bank announced with immediate effect the implementation of a maximum loan-to-value (LTV) ratio of 70% for people buying their third or more house, meaning those wanting their third property onwards have to come out with their own cash amounting to 30% of the value of the house.

“Financing facilities for purchase of the first and second homes are not affected and borrowers will continue to be able to obtain financing for these purchases at the present prevailing LTV level applied by individual banks based on their internal credit policies,” Bank Negara said in a statement yesterday.

The central bank said at the national level, property prices had increased steadily and remained manageable compared with the historical trends but for certain hot locations, particularly around the urban areas, faster growth in prices and transactions had been seen.

“This is further supported by an increase in financing provided for multiple unit purchases by a single borrower, suggesting increasing investment activity that is of a speculative nature,” it said.

For Further Reading:

From Star Business:
Support for Bank Negara’s housing LVR cap move

From Star Property:
http://www.starproperty.my/PropertyGuide/Finance/7697/0/0

END...

That's all folks, thanks for having the time and patience to read this blog entry.

It’s getting way too costly to own a home

The Star Online: OPINIONS: Friday October 1, 2010


SOURCE: http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2010/10/1/focus/7140931&sec=focus

It’s getting way too costly to own a home

AS I will be getting married next year, I have been looking forward to
owning my first home. However, it is really painful to witness the everincreasing
prices of houses which is outpacing my income growth.

Recently, I walked into the sales office of a new condominium project and
the sales person told me the developer is giving a special eight per cent
discount for units on the lower floors. The person told me that I only had
to put down two per cent to secure a mortgage, as they will report to the
banks the full price of the condominium, and give me the eight per cent
discount without the bank’s knowledge.

Coupled with ever higher loan-to-value ratio, it sure is a sign that the
market is now beyond the reach of most genuine home buyers.
Otherwise, why resort to such tactics to entice buyers to sign on the
dotted line?

This reminds me of the hey-day before the 2008 crash in Britain. Just
before the crash, British banks were lending up to 110% of the value of a
property. Any form of affordability test was circumvented by mortgage
advisors who encouraged buyers to “self-certify” their income levels to
declare an inflated income.

The whole of the UK was in a euphoria, and everyone was piling into the
“sure-win” property market. Mortgage repossession in Britain has
increased drastically in the past couple of years, probably causing ruin to
the lives of those caught out.

After looking at the property market in the Klang Valley, I am now more
inclined to rent my first home.

I can rent a nice house in a good area for RM2,000, whereas I would
have to pay RM4,000 or more to the banks if I were to buy a similar
property in the same area. Many people say renting is a waste of money.
I don’t see how paying double the rent amount to a bank to service the
interest is not a waste of money.

HAPPY TO RENT,
Petaling Jaya.

Related story: Is Buying or Renting better
http://www.starproperty.my/PropertyGuide/Finance/2139/0/0

MRT will boost property prices

The Star Business, Thursday October 7, 2010

MRT will boost property prices

By SHARIDAN M. ALI
sharidan@thestar.com.my

PETALING JAYA: The proposed mass rapid transit (MRT) system is expected to be one of the main contributing factors to boost property prices adjacent to the MRT stations.

CB Richard Ellis (M) Sdn Bhd executive director Paul Khong said the MRT stations generally had a positive impact on nearby property values in most cases.

“Being next to the station works well for lower and middle-end residential neighbourhoods and all commercial offices or retail malls. This basically translates to better public transportation and enhanced accessibility to the relevant vicinities,” he told StarBiz.

“The MRT will benefit the lower to middle-end users the most and it makes travelling faster, cheaper and much easier.”

On the expected quantum capital appreciation due to the MRT stations, Khong said it could be 10% to 15%.

“More importantly, the MRT station must be less than a 1O-minute walk from the properties. Ultimately, being next door and within five minutes away will be a premium.

“Anything more will give less impact in terms of capital values,” he said. “Being next to a MRT station could be the main selling point for a new project, be it a commercial or a residential one. A good example will be Menara UOA in Bangsar.”

But, Khong said, the property prices could be affected if it was alongside the MRT tracks and not the station. “The crucial point is to be close or next to the station if possible,” he said.

The RM36bil MRT system proposal by Gamuda Bhd and MMC Corp Bhd will have up to three main lines. The first line will run through Sungai Buloh, Kota Damansara, Kuala Lumpur and Cheras (right up to Kajang).

The second line will connect Sungai Buloh, Kepong, Kuala Lumpur and Serdang, while the third line will loop around Kuala Lumpur’s business district – providing a link between the monorail and light rail transit (LRT) services.

The Gamuda-MMC proposal is currently undergoing technical study by a consultant and should be completed by mid-month to be presented to the Government.

At this point in time, there is no information on the exact locations of the proposed MRT stations.

According to property consultancy Khong & Jaafar Sdn Bhd managing director Elvin Fernandez, most of the areas around the LRT stations have been developed and it is axiomatic that accessibility would improve property values.

“But the impact wouldn’t be immediate as the MRT will take time to complete and the effect will be evident only from details of the exact positions of the rails and stations filtering into the market in time to come,” he said.

Based on preliminary details of the MRT, Fernandez said the Sungai Buloh area (the Guthrie Corridor townships) and the proposed Rubber Research Institute Malaysia developments could be among the first beneficiaries because both lines were expected to start from there.

“Kajang and Seri Kembangan are the next areas to flourish as they are on the other end of the line. Additionally, the Cheras corridor also has good prospects,” he said.

Nevertheless, Fernandez said, some developments might be negatively affected, especially residential developments, due to the noise or congestion if they were close to the rail lines or stations.

“But generally, the MRT should bring positive effects to the nearby areas,” he said.

According to a market source, another area that would have potential based on the proposed MRT system was the Kota Damansara corridor.

“The Kota Damansara corridor includes Kota Damansara, Mutiara Damansara, Damansara Perdana and The Curve. Business and financial districts along Jalan Raja Chulan, Jalan Bukit Bintang and Suria KLCC also have good prospects,” said the source.

Badminton brings out the Malaysian in us

The Star: Tuesday August 31, 2010

Esprit de corps

By MICHAEL CHEANG
cschuin@thestar.com.my

Badminton brings out the Malaysian in us.

WHERE were you when we last won the Thomas Cup?

Most Malaysians old enough to remember that famous win will be able to tell you exactly where they were when Cheah Soon Kit and Soo Beng Kiang clinched that final point against their Indonesian opponents at exactly 12.36am on May 17, 1992.

On that historic day, it didn’t matter who was playing – whether it was Rashid Sidek, Foo Kok Keong or Cheah Soon Kit – Malaysians got behind the team that day, and every single one of us felt the exhilaration of winning the most prestigious prize in badminton.

And that spirit of unity isn’t confined to just that moment in time. Even today, Malaysians still turn up in droves at the stadium with our kompangs and drums to support the national team, regardless of who is playing.

There’s just something about badminton that flows through our Malaysian veins. It is a sport that transcends race, religion, age and gender, one that anyone and almost everyone can play. We’ve played the game with our neighbours across the front gate of their house. We’ve got more badminton halls than football fields. Whether you play the game or not, chances are if you are Malaysian, you will have at least one memory of a flying shuttlecock.

Smashing success

Home support: Malaysians turned up in full force for the semi-final between Lee Chong Wei (left) and China’s Lin Dan in this year’s Thomas Cup at Putra Stadium in Bukit Jalil.

Historically, Malaysia has always competed at the very top of the game. After all, we did win the inaugural Thomas Cup way back in 1949, and successfully defended the title until 1958 when Indonesia emerged as a badminton powerhouse. Even then, our players are still among the world’s best.

But just what is it about badminton that brings Malaysians together so? Perhaps the best people to answer this question are the ones who brought us together in the first place – the players themselves.

According to Datuk Eddy Choong, arguably our greatest player ever, Malaysians’ love affair with badminton goes back all the way to post-World War II times.

Cheerleading squad: Fans showing their support for the national badminton team.

“Back then, badminton was the cheapest sport we could play, because we could play it outdoors. We didn’t even need a proper court – just a sheet of cloth for the net, and shuttles!” he recalled. “It was more convenient than playing tennis or football. I remember in Penang, there would be over 100 badminton courts along a single street!”

Choong, who won the All England Open men’s singles title four times between 1953 and 1957 and was part of the 1955 Malayan Thomas Cup-winning team, said that as a result, Malaysia has always been strong in badminton. “Even before we won the first ever Thomas Cup in 1949, we already had a reputation for being very good at badminton. Top players from other countries would come to Malaysia and be soundly beaten,” he said.

No.1 sport: Badminton fans come from all walks of life and will gather anywhere to watch the game together.

Malaysia has always enjoyed consistent success in the world badminton arena. Choong and other players such as Tan Aik Huang, Ng Boon Bee, and Ooi Teck Hock have racked up All England and Thomas Cup wins by the dozen in the past, while the 80s were memorable for the rise of the legendary Sidek brothers. Even today, despite China’s dominance, Malaysia still has quite a formidable roster of players, led by world No.1 Lee Chong Wei, who won the All England singles this year.

Datuk Punch Gunalan reckons that it is this success through the years that has ensured Malaysians’ constant support in the sport.

A former high-ranking official in the Malaysian Badminton Association (BAM) who also held positions in the International Badminton Federation (now Badminton World Federation), Punch was no pushover during his playing days either. He won the All England doubles title with Ng Boon Bee in 1971, finished runner-up to Rudy Hartono in the 1974 All England singles final, and was team manager of the 1992 Thomas Cup winning team.

According to him, Malaysians love watching badminton because it is one of the few sports that have produced world champions for the country.

“Malaysians love to watch only the best (in a sport), and badminton is one of the only sports where we are actually of world-class standard. It is one of the only sports we know we can win!” he said.

Drop shots

Unfortunately, as in all sports, support for the team tends to wane whenever the players don’t win. However, for every fair-weather fan who jeered when Lee Chong Wei crumbled to Lin Dan in the 2008 Olympic final, there are hundreds more who applauded him for giving his all, despite facing a vastly superior opponent – such is the support and passion Malaysians have for the sport.

According to Punch, the passion for badminton here is much greater than in any other country he has ever visited.

“Badminton really brings everybody together in Malaysia. It is a relatively easy game to learn and play, and many of us have been playing since we were young,” he said.

In droves: The crowd who came to Stadium Putra Bukit Jalil to watch the Thomas Cup semi-final between Malaysia and China. Badminton is a sport that transcends race, religion, age and gender, one that anyone and almost everyone can play.

Former national singles player Misbun Sidek concurred, adding that badminton also benefits from good support from all sectors here – from the sponsors, the Government, and also the fans. “I don’t think there is any other country that loves the game as much as we do. Many parents encourage their children to take up badminton because they see the potential to go far in the sport.”

No article on Malaysian badminton can be complete without mentioning the Sidek family, which produced national singles players Misbun, Rashid and Rahman, as well as one of our greatest doubles pairs ever, Razif and Jailani.

Misbun, who now coaches Lee Chong Wei, reckons that Malaysia’s long history of success has helped cement badminton as Malaysia’s favourite sport.

“To me, badminton really is the No.1 sport in Malaysia. We are among the top-ranked countries in the world, and we have produced so many legends in the past as well.

“It is also the only sport that has produced medals in the Olympic Games,” he said.

Choong warned though, that while Malaysian badminton has been relatively successful so far, certain unsavoury elements could upset the shuttlecock cart.

“There should not be any politics and favouritism in badminton, or sports in general,” he said. “Administrators should not interfere with the coaches’ decisions, and there should be no favouritism when selecting players as well. If you allow that to happen, the sport is never going to improve. Right now, they have the support of the people, but will they still get it if they start losing?”

Misbun concurred, adding that equal opportunities should be given to everyone to participate. “I am grateful for what badminton has given me, and also proud to have been able to contribute to my country, both as a player and coach,” he said. “Even today, as a coach, I try to train anyone who is interested. Everyone should be given a chance to succeed and make the country proud.”

Moment of triumph

Back to the 1992 Thomas Cup final. I remember being 15 years old, reduced to watching the match on a tiny television set in a hostel in the middle of rural Pahang while attending a centralised sports training stint. I still remember vividly the exact layout of the living room, the colour of the sofa, and the number of people in the room.

Even in that little room, the atmosphere was electric, amplified by the loud roars emanating from the television set as the fans in the stadium cheered every shot the Malaysians made.

I remember the hope we felt when Rashid Sidek clinched victory in the first singles over Ardy Wiranata. I remember the despair when Razif and Jailani lost the first doubles to Rudy Gunawan and Eddy Hartono in rubber sets. I remember Foo Kok Keong’s never-say-die spirit – hurling himself all over the court to return Alan Budi Kusuma’s every shot and thrashing the Indonesian in straight sets.

And finally, there was the second, nail-biting doubles between Cheah Soon Kit/Soo Beng Kiang and Rexy Manaiky/Ricky Subagja, which ended with that final smash from Soo that won the title for Malaysia.

(And let’s not forget Kwan Yoke Meng, who was reduced to playing a dead rubber, but played his part in the famous victory nonetheless.)

It may not have been our first Thomas Cup victory, but it was definitely the sweetest, coming 25 years after our last win.

Even today, reliving the entire sequence of matches on YouTube still brings a tear to my eye. And the moment when the entire stadium was singing the national anthem as our flag was raised still sends a shiver down my spine. That glorious win marked one of the greatest moments in Malaysian sporting history, and above all, remains a moment when we were all cheering as one proud, united country.

What Malaysian badminton fans say....

Badminton really brings everybody together in Malaysia.

— Datuk Punch Gunalan

I remember watching the 1992 Thomas Cup final with my family at home, and after we had won, the feeling of pride was unbelievable. But it’s been frustrating that we could not sustain our standard after that. But nonetheless, I always tell my children that they have to support Malaysia, no matter what!

— Mazlan Abdul Rahman, 45, taxi driver

In Malaysia everyone plays badminton! Although the competition is more stiff now, the main thing is we are still top three in the world. But I feel there is a lot more we can do to improve our standard. We need to get the politics out of the sport, so that everyone gets an equal chance.

— Lesley V. Edison, business manager

Although Malaysian fans are supportive of the players, I hope they will continue to cheer the team on, even if we are losing.

— See Phui Leng, 26, civil servant, former national team player, part-time badminton coach

I’m not a badminton fan, but whenever badminton season comes around, such as during the Thomas Cup, everyone would be talking about it and I will also get caught up in it! Our badminton players make us proud. It doesn’t matter whether we are winning or losing, orang Malaysia mesti support Malaysia!

— Fahruddin Najumudeen, 27, assistant operations manager

Badminton has been our ‘national game’ since a long time ago. Badminton has so many good players from all the races. When it comes to the game we should not be talking about race – it should be all about the Malaysian national team!

— Seah Ah Buan, 52, businessman

Badminton gives Malaysians an avenue where everyone can support the team regardless of race or religion.

— Francis Ng, 43, lawyer

1992 ... those were the good old days.

— Intan Nahariah, 33, executive

END OF ARTICLES.

SOURCE:

1) http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2010/8/31/nation/6904687&sec=nation

2) http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2010/8/31/nation/6904689&sec=nation

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The Star Online: Published: Friday August 27, 2010 MYT 4:10:00 PM

Chinese man with no arms plays piano with toes

SHANGHAI (AP): Pianist Liu Wei sits quietly to compose himself before plunging into the music. Then he takes off a sock.

The 23-year-old, whose arms were amputated after a childhood accident, plays the piano with his toes.
Liu was thrust into the limelight earlier this month when he performed on "China's Got Talent," the Chinese version of the TV show that helped make Britain's Susan Boyle a singing star.

"Whatever other people do with their hands, I do with my feet. It's just that," says Liu,a tall, slender man who peers shyly from behind dark-rimmed glasses.

"China's Got Talent," which has also featured disabled modern dancers and break-dancing migrant workers, has been a hit since its launch in July, despite skepticism among some viewers about whether all the participants' stories are genuine.

The Dragon TV program is drawing attention to the hopes and challenges of the disabled and otherwise disadvantaged in China.

In his first appearance, Liu received a standing ovation from the audience, many of whom were moved to tears, for a performance of "Mariage D'amour" by Richard Clayderman.

During an interview with The Associated Press in Shanghai, where the show is filmed, he played a still unnamed, poignant piece he composed himself.  Sitting on a tallish red stool, he removed his shoes and right sock, carefully using his toes to place the sock in his right shoe. (He plays with his left sock on.) He wiped some of the keys with a tissue, and then rested his heels on a velvet-covered, narrow platform before the piano.

Time after time, he played the piece gently and flawlessly.

Liu, who was 10 when he lost his arms after getting electrocuted playing hide-and-seek, uses his feet to navigate online, eat, dress and brush his teeth.  "I wish I could go out driving to have fun. Apart from that, there is really nothing more I want to do," said Liu, who lives in Beijing. "Music has become a habit for me. It is just like breathing air."

He only began playing the piano in his late teens.  "Nobody ever decreed that to play the piano you must use your hands," he said.

Prosthetic limbs don't interest Liu. He has no need for special support, he said, though he conceded he has often met with discrimination. Disabled people in China, despite efforts to improve conditions, are often forced to beg on the sidewalks. Liu is able to support himself, though he wouldn't say how.
"I have food to eat and clothes to wear and many people caring about me. What is there to be dissatisfied about?" he said. "There are many people without enough to eat. I'm much more fortunate than them."
Sun Ganlu, a writer and arts critic in Shanghai, said that, whatever the commercial motives behind "China's Got Talent," the show is raising awareness in a positive way.

"The fact is that people are touched by these great performers, regardless of whether they are disabled or poor," he said. "They are struggling in life compared with others, but they also have hobbies and talents to get them through their tough lives."

"It helps people be more aware of whether we are doing too little to help these people," he added.
Liu's biggest beef is with people who insist on helping him without asking first.

"Here, if someone thinks you need help they will just do it. They assume you must want help," he said. "Foreigners will ask first if you want any help. They will first respect your wishes. In that way, China could make an improvement."

Liu would like to be seen just as a pianist. "Right now, everyone looks at me and says, 'Oh, Liu Wei has no arms and it's very difficult for him to play the piano,"' he said. "In the future, I want them to say, 'Oh he's good.' To first notice the work is great, and then say, 'Liu Wei did it.' ... What I demand is that my work be so good people won't notice that my arms are missing."

END OF ARTICLE...

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ARTICLE: Unforgetable Teresa Teng

Saturday August 7, 2010

Unforgetable Teresa Teng

By YIP YOKE TENG
teng@thestar.com.my

FIFTEEN years after she died of a severe asthma attack while holidaying in Thailand, Teresa Teng is still dearly remembered by her fans all over the world, even beyond the Chinese-speaking communities.
It is said that wherever there are Chinese, Taiwan-born Teng’s songs can be heard.
During the height of her popularity, it was said that Deng Xiaoping, the Communist leader ruled China by day while Teng ruled China by night.

In commemoration of the 15th anniversary of her passing, a concert will be held on Sept 4 at 8pm at the Plenary Hall, Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre, by three artistes who sound and even look like Teng for her fans to indulge in nostalgia.

Paying tribute: (from left) Hsieh and Ng at the press conference

The concert is organised by Dynamix Fantasy Events Sdn Bhd, produced by Heritage Performing Arts (Asia) Sdn Bhd and sponsored by Hai-O Enterprise.

The songs will be rendered by Tong Yao, Wang Jing and Michelle Hsieh to the accompaniment of an orchestra as well as Chinese traditional musical instruments including the erhu (Chinese violin) played by He Yun who has carved a name for herself with her exquisite renditions of Teng’s songs.
Tong Yao from Sichuan province, China, was the champion in the “Small Town Story” Singing Contest held in China that sought to discover the individual who sounded most like Teng.

Since then, she has been performing around Southeast Asia, including Malaysia, and received rave reviews. She has also bagged many awards with her sweet voice.

Wang Jing from Hebei province, China, is an ardent fan of Teng, even though she was born in 1991.
Wang was the champion in a singing contest that searched worldwide for Teng’s successor.
Joining the two is Michelle Hsieh, Taiwanese singer, who sounds so much like Teng, that she is dubbed “Little Teresa”.

“With Teng’s untimely death, the Chinese music industry lost a bright star but her music lives on deep in our hearts,” Hsieh said at a press conference recently.
She thanked the organisers for giving her the chance to again pay tribute to her idol, who had influenced her a lot.

She will belt out not only Mandarin numbers, but also songs in English and Japanese, in an effort to emulate Teng’s linguistic talent. Teng had recorded songs in Taiwanese, Cantonese, Japanese, Vietnamese, Indonesian, and English.

Concert producer Kok Kee Boon said the show promised to be an audio and visual indulgence.
Tickets are priced at RM598 (VVIP), RM398 (VIP), RM298, RM198, RM138 and RM98. Senior citizens aged 60 and above are entitled to 15% discount while group of 10 pax and above can enjoy 10% discount.

Both offers apply to tickets priced RM198 and above.
For enquiries or booking, call 03-7711 5000 or log on to www.axcess.com.my

END OF ARTICLE:
SOurce:
http://thestar.com.my/metro/story.asp?file=/2010/8/7/central/6791623&sec=central

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The Star Metro: Saturday August 7, 2010

Musang King lovers swear by its rich, creamy taste

By LIM CHIA YING and PRIYA MENON
metro@thestar.com.my
Photos by NORAFIFI EHSAN and CHAN TAK KONG

Durians, durians and more durians! It is the time of the season again where people would sit on stools, huddled over the thorny husks and taste the yellow-coloured pulp.
 
The smell can be offensive to those who despise it. But it is probably safe to say that the number of Malaysians who love this fruit outnumber those who don’t, and for this majority, the smell is fragrant!
There are many varieties, with names like Red Prawn, D101, D13, D24, XO, D2 and also Bamboo Leg (Thraka), but the one that is much in demand now, even rising above all is the Musang King (Mao San Wong in Chinese).

The taste of Malaysia’s Musang King had enamoured even Macau’s casino king Stanley Ho so much that he sent his personal jet to Singapore recently to buy 88 of this variety, worth about RM4,800!
While Ho’s worker had wanted to pick up 98 of the Musang King, however, he could only get 88 since the adverse weather had resulted in a shortage of supply.

Beautiful: Cheong showing the yellow flesh of the prized Musang King variety.

 

Ho gave 10 of the Musang King to his friend Hong Kong billionaire Li Ka Shing.

While Musang King is no doubt sold at many stalls for years, its popularity has increased by many folds now.
So what is the fuss about the Musang King, which is priced higher than the rest.

T.H. Tee, who runs his Durian Hartamas stall in Desa Sri Hartamas, said the best Musang King was from Pahang.

He gets his daily supply from Bentong and said it used to be much costlier but the price had dropped.

Costly: Packets of freshly-packaged Musang King at Tee’s stall in Desa Sri Hartamas, seen here going at a price of RM48 per packet while the smaller packets cost RM20

 

“The Musang King’s flesh is yellow,” said Tee as he cracked open one to show the contents.
“It’s creamy, too, and has a fragrance that lingers long in your mouth. The quality is consistent and you cannot find fault from one pulp to the other.”

The Musang King is originally known as Durian Kunyit, deriving its name from the yellow colour of the turmeric. Its place of origin is said to be Gua Musang, Kelantan.

Tee said the Musang King had been in Malaysia for more than 10 years but the bigger, better quality ones were often exported to Singapore.  “Singaporeans only need pay half of the Malaysian cost, given their stronger currency value. So they can well afford it,” said Tee, who hails from Johor and had sold the Musang King in Singapore for many years.

This is the first year that he is putting up a stall in Hartamas. For a start, Tee said he was charging his Musang King at a reasonable price, below the market rate although he declined to say how much.
“This way, I hope to build a steady stream of customers here.”

Tee said his durians were supplied fresh daily, as the taste would be less superior if kept overnight. His fruits arrive late in the afternoon after the morning pick.

Only the best: (From left) S. Arumugam, Tharma Kumaran, Pala Kumaran and Daljit Singh, 39, eating the Mau San King as stall owner Tee, offer the best of his wares

 

Cheong Yeow Choy, who sells only Pahang-supplied durians at his stall in SS2 behind the police station, said Musang King was expensive because of the big demand in Singapore.
“After Stanley Ho made his purchase and sent some to Li Ka Shing, the durian’s popularity shot up even more!

“But there are also people who do not like it,” said Cheong, 49, who is popularly called Kim Mao by his friends and customers for his gold-dyed hair.

Yet there are also people who have no idea what Musang King is.
“The real durian lovers are not likely to opt for Musang King because the flavour is quite standard and predictable, without much variation,” Cheong said.

But Cheong said Musang King was unique because of its distinct yellow colour, small seeds and almost flawless quality of its flesh.

“The reject rate is very small,” he added.

As a durian seller for 32 years, he spent 15 years working in Pahang, and admitted to aggressively promoting durians from the state. He gets his daily supply from Raub and Krau.
“I bring in about 7,500kg of various durians each day.
“Durians that are exposed to the sun tend to be more bitter, while those under the shade tend to be sweeter,” he said.

When asked how a buyer could identify the Musang King, Cheong could only say that there is a certain shape to look out for.  “You have to check the head and bottom of the fruit which has a distinct shape.”
He said there were different grades of the Musang King — the Super Grade or Grade 1 and Grade 2.
The Grade 1, he said, were those from the old trees and which grow higher up in the mountains, while the lower Grade 2 were usually grown on a flatter terrain.

He said he would be drastically reducing the Musang King’s price to make it affordable to all.
Durian lover Tharma Kumaran said the Musang King was the epitome of the durian family.
“We are always getting B and C grade durians in Malaysia because the best are usually sent to Singapore,” lamented Tharma, 36.

“But it’s the tastiest among all. Although the price is higher, I believe a good fruit is worth its value,” he added.
He attributed its good taste to the thicker and creamier flesh and the Musang King gave him lesser indigestion problems.

His brother, Pala Kumaran, agreed that the durian tasted better and was not sticky.
“It comes out neatly from the seed and melts in the mouth,” he said.
Two Taiwanese customers, who were eating at the stall, said the Musang King was their favoured variety.
“It’s the best (durian) for me,” said Hsiao Chih Jen, 61.

“The flavour and aftertaste is different from the other varieties,” Hsiao said.
His friend, Chen Chiu Tung, 60, said he did not mind forking out more money as long as the quality was good.
Both have been staying and working in Malaysia for more than 20 years. “We only learnt to eat the fruit upon coming to Malaysia.
“Now there are durians in Taiwan, but are imported from Thailand which doesn’t taste nice,” said Chen.
But as they say, taste is subjective and whether Musang King is really that good, you are your own judge.

END OF ARTICLE:

Source:
http://www.thestar.com.my/metro/story.asp?file=/2010/8/7/central/6805195&sec=central

J-Lo close to deal for ‘Idol’, Ellen quits show

Source: The Star Online.

http://ecentral.my/news/story.asp?file=/2010/7/30/tvnradio/20100730080736&sec=tvnradio

Updated: Friday July 30, 2010 MYT 1:59:57 PM

J-Lo close to deal for ‘Idol’, Ellen quits show (Update)

Ellen DeGeneres is dancing off “American Idol” after one season and Jennifer Lopez is poised to step in.

Lopez is close to signing a deal to join Fox TV’s hit singing contest as a judge, a person familiar with the negotiations said late Thursday. The person, who was not authorized to comment publicly, spoke on condition of anonymity. Actor-singer-dancer Lopez, whose films include “Selena” and “The Back-Up Plan,” has appeared as a mentor on “American Idol.”

Fox declined comment. Phone and e-mail messages for Lopez’s representatives were not immediately returned. DeGeneres announced earlier Thursday she is leaving the show after one season, following fellow judge Simon Cowell out the door. Fox has yet to announce a replacement for Cowell.

Cowell departed after the season finale in May to start a new talent show for the network. Those under consideration for his spot, according to reports, are a varied group that includes Steven Tyler and Harry Connick Jr.

New faces on the panel could help the show reinvent itself in season 10, as it tries to stem a ratings slide and bring in younger viewers. The “American Idol” audience has been gradually aging, and advertisers prefer to pitch to young adults.

With audition episodes featuring the judging panel set to begin filming in September for the show’s return in January, the pressure is on to announce the new judges. On Monday, Fox is scheduled to present its 2010-11 programs to a meeting of the Television Critics Association.

“A couple months ago, I let Fox and the ‘American Idol’ producers know that this didn’t feel like the right fit for me,” DeGeneres said in a statement. The comedian-talk show host said she realized that while she “loved discovering, supporting and nurturing young talent, it was hard for me to judge people and sometimes hurt their feelings.” DeGeneres said she told the network she would delay any action until it had time to “figure out where they wanted to take the panel next.”

Judge Kara DioGuardi, who was added to the panel two years ago, is not under contract for next year and Fox has not announced whether she’ll return. Original judge Randy Jackson is the fourth panel member. “It was a joy to work with Ellen,” said Mike Darnell, president of alternative entertainment for Fox. “She brought an incredible spirit to Idol.”

When DeGeneres joined the show as a replacement for Paula Abdul, proclaiming herself a fan of “American Idol” and a pop aficionado, observers noted she didn’t bring music industry expertise to her role. Some observers complained she proved more of a cheerleader than an incisive critic in the mold of Cowell.

She had a reported two-year contract.

“American Idol” was America’s favorite program last season, the seventh time it’s held that position. But it showed rare vulnerability, beaten in the weekly ratings several times by ABC’s “Dancing with the Stars.”

A total of 24.2 million viewers watched the ninth season’s final duel between Lee DeWyze and Crystal Bowersox, compared to the nearly 29 million viewers who saw Kris Allen win over Adam Lambert last year. - AP

By BAVANI M
bavanim@thestar.com.my
Photos by CHAN TAK KONG | The Star, Jul 30, 2010

‘Little India’ shaping up

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Handymen: Workers from India working on the Pallavainspired columns that will be part of the highlight of the RM35mil Little India project in Brickfields.

WORK on Phase One of the RM35mil “Little India” project in Brickfields have started with the first fruits of the mega project in the form of traditional columns being constructed along the five-foot way of the restaurants starting from the Sri Kota Supermarket along Jalan Tun Sambanthan.

The columns fronting the shops along the busy road will feature Dravidian designs popular during the “Pallava” era. Workers from Chidambaram and Tamil Nadu, India have been brought in to construct the columns.

On Thursday, the workers were busy painting the columns when StarMetro visited the site.

Atish D’ Resources Sdn Bhd director A. Damodaran, whose company is building the columns, said his workers were trained carvers who were experts in Pallava architecture.

“These carvings were famous during the ‘Pallava’ era thousands of years ago. The Pallava kings are remembered mainly for their contribution towards the Dravidian architecture and sculpture just like the beach temples of Mahabalipuram.

“We decided to incorporate this design as we feel it is the perfect representation of the Indian culture,’’ he said, adding that his company had done work for temples in Malaysia including the famous Maran temple in Pahang and the Mariamman Temple near Jalan Bandar, Kuala Lumpur.

Kuala Lumpur City Hall public works director Siti Saffur Mansor, who was at the site checking on the progress, said phase one of Little India was scheduled to be completed by October.

“The 500m stretch will be tiled complete with arches and columns. Everything must be ready by October and I must say everything looks good,’’ she said.

The project, which covers the area from Jalan Travers to Jalan Tun Sambanthan, will have two arches — one in Jalan Travers and another near the Brickfields police station.

The five-foot way of the restaurants starting from the Kortumalai Restaurant will be lined with the Pallava-inspired columns stretching 500 metres right up to the Pines Restaurant near the Brickfields police station.

The entire stretch of Jalan Tun Sambanthan will also sport Indian-style street lighting akin to the Kuthu Velluku and Kolam designs in many colours.

Other amenities to be set up include a multi-storey carpark, a high-end Indian bazaar, souvenir centres and a food court.

The project will see the charming township transformed into a cultural enclave reflecting the 1Malaysia concept and provide a tourism boost for Brickfields.

The Federal Territories and Urban Wellbeing Ministry announced recently that Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak had invited India’s Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh to attend the project’s opening which is expected to be at the end of the year.

By BAVANI M
bavanim@thestar.com.my | The Star, Jul 30, 2010

Jalan Bangsar-Jalan Travers flyover opens seven months ahead of schedule

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Motorists can now get to their destinations faster with the opening of the Jalan Bangsar/ Jalan Travers flyover. Inset: The 1Malaysia logo is inscribed in the design of the flyover. – By CHAN TAK KONG / The Star

MOTORISTS travelling from the Mahameru Highway and the city centre towards Jalan Bangsar via Jalan Travers can now experience smooth traffic flow as the flyover from Jalan Bangsar/Jalan Travers has finally opened.

The RM34.7mil flyover, which is Package 1 of the RM110mil traffic dispersal system to ease congestion in Brickfields and Kuala Lumpur Sentral, was opened on Wednesday evening.

A spokesman from the project contractor Malaysian Resources Corporation Bhd (MRCB) said the three-lane 600m flyover was completed seven months ahead of schedule.

The flyover was constructed using an innovative construction method. “It (flyover) is also designed with the 1Malaysia concept in mind incorporating the 1Malaysia logo — the first ever in the country,’’ the spokesman added.

With the opening of the flyover, motorists no longer have to stop at the Jalan Travers junction, but travel straight on towards Bangsar.

Federal Territories and Urban Wellbeing Minister Datuk Raja Nong Chik Raja Zainal Abidin, who will launch the flyover on Aug 6, said he was happy to hear that the project was completed ahead of schedule.

“We have been pushing for an early completion as we did not want to inconvenience the people further,’’ he said.

Nong Chik added that the flyover was part of the six packages under the scheme to ease congestion in the area.

Under the second stimulus package, the government has given the Federal Territories and Urban Wellbeing Ministry RM110mil to spend on improving the traffic conditions in Brickfields and Bangsar.

The proposed improvements come in six packages:

·Package 1: Construction of a flyover at the Jalan Travers/Jalan Bangsar intersection.

·Package 2: Construction of a flyover from KL Sentral to Jalan Damansara and Lebuhraya Mahameru

·Package 3: Upgrading of Jalan Tun Sambanthan and its vicinity

·Package 4: Construction of pedestrian bridges and linkages

·Package 5: Upgrading and repairing of roads in KL Sentral

·Package 6: Construction of an elevated road from Jalan Bangsar to Jalan Maarof.

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ARTICLE: Someone bought a penthouse for RM38mil in KL!

By TEE LIN SAY
linsay@thestar.com.my | The Star Jul 7, 2010

Someone bought a penthouse for RM38mil in KL!

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Binjai is the only condominium located on the 50-acre KLCC Park.

KUALA LUMPUR: The Binjai On The Park development in Kuala Lumpur City Centre (KLCC) caused a stir in the property market when one of its two super penthouses was sold last month for RM38mil, making it among the most expensive homes to have been sold in Malaysia in recent years.

Some property consultants, such as Zerin Properties chief executive officer Previndran Singhe, believe that this is the country’s largest condominium transaction, although it has yet to be verified.

The buyer is a corporate figure who has been on Forbes magazine’s list of wealthiest people. On June 22, he bought the triplex penthouse, measuring 14,300 sq ft, on the 42nd floor of Binjai’s Tower B. The price tag of RM38mil meant the penthouse was sold for almost RM2,660 per sq ft (psf).

“The buyer bought the penthouse to stay. He fell in love with the 360-degree unobstructed view of the KLCC skyline right at his doorstep, similar to views offered by the likes of London’s One Hyde Park. He said Binjai On The Park was just like one of his other homes around the globe,” said Terri Har, marketing and sales manager of Layar Intan Sdn Bhd, the developer.

Layar Intan is 100% owned by KLCC (Holdings) Sdn Bhd, which in turn is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Petronas.

Binjai’s two 45-storey towers have a total of 171 units. To date, the project has recorded sales of more than RM600mil at an average price of RM2,600 psf.

Over the last six months, three other penthouses have been sold for approximately RM18mil. On a psf basis, the most expensive unit so far was a standard unit on the 38th floor, which was sold for RM2,900 psf or RM10.6mil.

With Tower B now sold out, what is left are mainly Tower A’s standard units, which offer 3,700 sq ft each. Binjai is the only condominium located on the 50-acre KLCC Park and is part of the KLCC development master plan.

“Binjai’s key selling point is the fact that every unit has an unobstructed view of the park, along with a spacious balcony,” said HwangDBS Vickers Research analyst Yee Mee Hui.

Said Har of Layar Intan: “Some 30% of our buyers are from Japan, Hong Kong, Britain and other parts of Europe. Most of our buyers are businessmen and corporate people who already have homes around the world. They appreciate Binjai as the only development in the vicinity with an unblocked view of the KLCC skyline.”

She added that most of the local purchasers bought Binjai units to live there or as homes for their children, while the foreign buyers treated the units as holiday homes or transit points.