YTL HOTELS DOES MALAYSIA PROUD BY WINNING THREE AWARDS AT THE PRESTIGIOUS GOURMAND WORLD COOKBOOK AWARDS IN BEIJING

YTL HOTELS DOES MALAYSIA PROUD BY WINNING THREE AWARDS AT THE PRESTIGIOUS GOURMAND WORLD COOKBOOK AWARDS IN BEIJING

Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia – May 23, 2014: There was much excitement in the air at the Beijing Daxing Theatre on May 21, 2014, where the annual Gourmand World Cookbook Awards was held. Authors, publishers, culinary television personalities and food and beverage industry professionals from all over the world graced this special event to vie for top placing in various award categories from best wine and cookbooks to the best television personality for year 2013. The Awards is an equivalent to the Oscars in the world of cookbooks.

Zwei Freunde – Eine Küche (Two Friends – One Cuisine) was awarded the Special Award of the Jury (Germany and Malaysia) and Best Cookbook of the Year (Germany). Published in Germany by Johann Lafer’s Stromburg and photographed by Michael Wissing, the stunning bilingual (German and English) coffee table book showcases the passion for food and life of two celebrated chefs in Malaysia and Germany. The book is a result of a great culinary and personal friendship between Johann Lafer, Austrian Michelin-starred chef and television personality in Germany and Wai Look Chow, award-winning Corporate Executive Chef at YTL Hotels in Malaysia. The book features Asian specialities infused with Austrian-German influences conjured by Chef Wai and distinct Asian touches in Chef Lafer’s creations, discovered whilst on their culinary adventures to Germany and Malaysia. It also includes personal recipes by both chefs and a short film.

“What an honour to have been bestowed the Special Award of the Jury. Having come from a small Styrian village, this is a dream come true and proved that I have done something right in life. My close friendship with Chef Wai and YTL Hotels developed over the years and the friendship is evident as you turn the pages of the book. This special award also shows that different cultures and cuisines can be shared and cooked in total harmony and I am deeply grateful that Zwei Freunde – Eine Küche (Two Friends – One Cuisine) has been recognised at the esteemed Gourmand World Cookbook Awards.”, Chef Lafer said.

Chef Wai added, “Chef Lafer and I have a unique bond which spans almost a decade. We inspire each other and have many fascinating memories which saw us exchanging ideas, creating new dishes with local ingredients, wandering through colourful vibrant markets, vineyards, tea plantations and much more. Each time we meet, we embark on a new culinary voyage. These accolades are great achievements for us and I am very happy and privileged to have received the awards in Beijing for Chef Lafer and myself.”

The third accolade YTL Hotels garnered that evening was for A Perennial Feast. The eclectic culinary coffee table book was awarded second place in the Corporate Cookbook category.

Published by Talisman Publishing, and authored by Ms Kim Inglis, A Perennial Feast takes the reader on a gastronomic journey from Malaysia to Japan and China, and all the way to Europe. Beginning in Malaysia, the heart and home of the YTL Group, it showcases island resorts, city heritage hotels and restaurants, all the while providing an overview of Malay cuisine. Recipes for traditional Malay fare are combined with some East meets West fusion food and innovative seafood dishes. The book then branches further afield into the snowy landscape of Hokkaido and the cityscape of modern Shanghai, whilst exploring both recipes and cuisines from Japan and China. Sections on Indonesia, Thailand, England and France follow – showcasing not just the cuisine but also the iconic properties in full colour photography by Danish photographer, Jacob Termansen, which further enhances the reading experience. The book is simply much more than a restaurant review or a recipe collection. A Perennial Feast is available at the following bookstores in Singapore and Malaysia - Kinokuniya, MPH Bookstores, Times the Bookshop and major bookstores in Southeast Asia and the United Kingdom. The book is priced at SGD49.95/ MYR125/ GBP25 per copy.

“On behalf of Talisman Publishing, myself as author and Jacob Termansen as photographer, I would like to say how delighted we are to learn of our first runner-up placing in the Corporate Cookbook category at the recent Gourmand World Cookbook Awards. From the outset our intention was to showcase YTL’s considerable culinary talents in all their glory — both visually and in text. To keep the subject matter lively, it was decided that both anecdotes and food history be added, as well as recipes and restaurant reviews. The end result is a book that has multiple attractions: there are plenty of recipes, lots of information and a complete roundup of all the YTL restaurants, cafés and kitchens. The team behind the book is very proud of our award.”, said Ms Inglis.

Present to receive the awards were Chef Wai Look Chow and Mr Laurent Myter, Executive Vice-
President, Resorts, YTL Hotels.

The Gourmand World Cookbook Awards was founded in 1995 by Mr Edouard Cointreau, President
and Founder. Books can be submitted for competition by anyone: authors, publishers or even
readers. The Jury decides in which categories those books would compete. 187 countries
participated in the Awards this year.

Raising stakes on Berjaya Hills

By Sharen Kaur
Published in NST on June 17, 2014

RM3b COMPLEX: Tycoon wants to re-apply for licence to operate

BERJAYA group founder Tan Sri Vincent Tan will apply for a licence to operate a casino at Berjaya Hills Resort in Pahang, and will invest RM3 billion initially to set up the complex.

Tan is prepared to pump in the money to turn Berjaya Hills, here, into a world-class tourist destination and Malaysia’s biggest tourism development.

He will also bring in investors to develop the complex, which will include a gaming centre, indoor and outdoor theme parks, food outlets, a retail mall, hotels, a convention centre and holiday homes.

In an interview with Business Times, Tan said he hopes there will be no objections from any parties as the casino complex will benefit Malaysia in foreign exchange gain and economic spillovers.

Tan expects to employ about 10,000 locals to run the complex.

“Malaysians and foreigners are spending their money on gambling, hotels and food in Singapore, Macau, Cambodia, the Philippines and Las Vegas. I’m sure they would like to come here. We can expect hundreds of buses from Singapore to come here.”

Tan had applied for a licence to operate a casino at Berjaya Hills more than 10 years ago but it was rejected amid protests from some quarters.

Berjaya Hills, which is just minutes away from the country’s only casino in Genting Highlands, has a permit to operate slot machines.

“We will re-apply for the licence.  Malaysia should not stick to one operator. It should be shared with other operators as tourism developments can generate a lot of income for the country. 

“South Korea, Japan and Taiwan are looking to give out licences to operate casinos as they realise the full potential of such developments. 

“We will market Berjaya Hills as a new casino destination globally. I have 4,600ha in Berjaya Hills and there is lot that can be done with such a licence.”

  Berjaya Hills, which is home to Colmar Tropicale, The Chateau Spa and Organic Wellness Resort, a golf and country club and other recreational facilities, employs about 800 people.

The idea for Berjaya Hills was mooted by former prime minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad who, after a trip to the Alsace region in France, suggested that Tan replicate the development here.

Starwood Hotels partner IOI Properties Group Bhd

Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. (NYSE:HOT) today announced it has signed an agreement with IOI Properties Group to manage two hotels – Four Points by Sheraton Puchong and Le Méridien Putrajaya, slated to open in the fall of 2014 and 2015, respectively. These two new hotels will add 599 rooms to Starwood’s robust portfolio in the country and reflect Starwood’s desire to expand into the fast growing districts of Malaysia. Puchong and Putrajaya are part of the Klang Valley area, which includes Kuala Lumpur and its suburbs and adjoining cities and towns in the state of Selangor.
“We are delighted to announce the signings of Four Points by Sheraton and Le Méridien in the Klang Valley, underscoring our expansion plans in Malaysia, one of the world’s most dynamic destinations,” said Chuck Abbott, Regional Vice President, Southeast Asia, Starwood Hotels & Resorts. “We look forward to further strengthening our footprint in the country as we welcome these two hotels into our portfolio.”
“IOI Properties is happy to partner Starwood Hotels and Resorts to expand the Four Points by Sheraton and Le Méridien brands in the Klang Valley,” said Lee Yeow Seng, Chief Executive Officer, IOI Properties Group Berhad. “The hotels will be considered landmark developments within the two townships and contribute positively towards their growth and our portfolio.”
“Malaysia’s strong economic growth and healthy tourism arrivals present us with a very exciting growth opportunity,” said Matthew Fry, Senior Vice President, Acquisition & Development, Asia Pacific, Starwood Hotels & Resorts. “Starwood’s development in the fast growing districts of Puchong and Putrajaya will enable us to cater to Malaysia’s growing middle class and the increased number of business and leisure travellers in the market.”
Starwood currently operates 12 hotels in the country’s key destinations, including Kuala Lumpur, Langkawi, Penang, Kota Kinabalu, Sandakan, and Kuching. In addition to Four Points by Sheraton Puchong and Le Méridien Putrajaya, Starwood’s Malaysian pipeline includes: The St. Regis Kuala Lumpur, W Kuala Lumpur, Sheraton Petaling Jaya Hotel, Sheraton Desaru Hotel, and Four Points by Sheraton Kota Kinabalu.
Four Points by Sheraton Puchong
Scheduled to open in the fourth quarter of 2014, Four Points by Sheraton Puchong is strategically located in the heart of Puchong’s developing new business district, Puchong Financial Corporate Centre (PFCC) at Bandar Puteri Puchong. Puchong is a major town in the Petaling district of Selangor, Malaysia and is situated midway between Kuala Lumpur and Putrajaya, the federal administrative capital. The hotel is located about 32 kilometers from the Kuala Lumpur International Airport; and is approximately a 20-minute drive to the Kuala Lumpur city centre. The hotel will be conveniently accessible by public transportation, and only be a short walk from the LRT station due for completion in the first quarter of 2016.
Four Points by Sheraton Puchong will feature 249 stylish and contemporary guestrooms, including 12 executive suites designed for an unencumbered, comfortable stay. The hotel will also feature a total of 1,110 square metres of meeting space, including an 800-square- metre grand ballroom. Additionally, the hotel will have a swimming pool, two food and beverage venues including the brand’s signature restaurant, The Eatery, a fitness centre, and a variety of other amenities such as free Wi-Fi, free bottled water and free coffee – all amenities that make the Four Points brand a favourite with travellers worldwide.
Upon completion, Four Points by Sheraton Puchong will be the fifth Four Points by Sheraton property in Malaysia, following the success of the brand in Langkawi, Sandakan, Kuching and the recently opened Four Points Penang.
Le Méridien Putrajaya
Strategically located in Malaysia’s federal administrative capital, Le Méridien Putrajaya will be situated in close proximity to the city’s commercial and retail areas, including the IOI City Mall, which is slated to open late this year. The hotel will offer 350 contemporary guestrooms, all outfitted with the signature Le Méridien BedÒ. Le Méridien Putrajaya will feature two innovative restaurants concepts, fitness centre, spa facilities, and a swimming pool. The hotel will have more than 1,630 square metres of state-of-the-art meeting and event space, including a grand ballroom.
Le Méridien Putrajaya will also feature the signature Le Méridien Hub™, which re-interprets the traditional lobby into a social gathering place, and further builds on the brand’s award-winning arrival experience and coffee culture. Le Méridien arrival consists of four elements: large-scale artwork in high impact areas; the sensory experience, illustrated through Le Méridien signature scent, sound and use of light; UNLOCK ART™ programme, featuring artist designed key card collections that offer access to Le Méridien affiliated contemporary cultural centers in the city; and a 24-hour curated soundtrack by French Bossa Nova band Nouvelle Vague. The Hub features the signature Master Barista, a recently launched initiative to meet the growing demands of coffee lovers at every Le Méridien hotel worldwide. Master Baristas lead coffee-related initiatives at each hotel, serve as a coffee cultural ambassador, and maintain knowledge of current coffee trends within the destination.
Le Méridien Putrajaya will be the brand’s third hotel in Malaysia after Le Méridien Kuala Lumpur and Le Méridien Kota Kinabalu.

Accor to ramp up presence

By Sharen Kaur

KUALA LUMPUR: France-based hotel group Accor S.A. is ramping up its presence in Malaysia as it is upbeat on the local tourism industry, says Eric Tan, the general manager for Pullman Kuala Lumpur Bangsar.

According to him, Accor will manage hotels for operators in Langkawi, Penang, Malacca, Port Dickson, Kota Baru, Johor Baru and Sandakan.

"There are many places in Malaysia that require hotel rooms. We are in talks with hotel owners who have approached us to manage their properties under our brands.

"We will do our own assessment and study the development theme to see if it suits any of our brands.

"We will also evaluate the potential of our brand in that area. We are very strict and will not compromise on the brand," he told Business Times in an interview, here, recently.

Accor is the world's largest hotel chain manager with a presence in 92 countries and operates close to 4,000 hotels with more than 600,000 rooms.

The group provides an extensive range of accommodations - from luxury to budget, and serviced apartment facilities - operating under 13 brands.

In Malaysia, it manages eight hotels with 2,520 rooms under the Pullman, Novotel and Ibis Styles brands in Kuala Lumpur, Putrajaya and Kuching.

Tan said Accor will be adding more hotels to its portfolio over the next two years.

These include Mercure Kota Kinabalu, Mercure Selayang, Mercure Bandar Sri Damansara, Mercure Shaw Parade, Ibis Styles Sandakan and Novotel Malacca.

For fiscal year 2013, the Accor group reported a profit of Euro126 million (RM567 million) and Euro5.5 billion revenue. As as the end-2013, it has total assets of Euro7 billion.

"Indonesia is the best performer for Accor in Asia and Malaysia is catching up. Accor will focus on growth in Malaysia," Tan said.

New role for LCCT

By Sharen Kaur

INVESTMENT PLAN: MAHB to spend up to RM200m turning terminal into global cargo and logistics hub, say sources

MALAYSIA Airports Holdings Bhd (MAHB) will spend  RM40 million to RM200 million to transform the Low-Cost Carrier Terminal (LCCT) in Sepang into a global cargo and logistics hub.

    The  investment will depend on the requirements for the said hub, according to people with knowledge on the matter.

    "If a large luxury jeweller or pharmaceutical group wants to come in, then the investment will be RM200 million as it will require tighter security and faster processing. But if only smaller industries want to utilise the hub, MAHB will retain the whole shell with  upgrading costing about RM40 million.

    "MAHB will do whatever it takes to get the investment so that shareholders' dividend wont't be affected," said one of the sources.

    The sources said MAHB's aim is to turn the LCCT into one of Malaysia's major cargo and logistics hubs, and help local logistic players to be the "future DHL of Southeast Asia".

    DHL is a global market leader in the logistics industry.

    According to the source, the transformation of  LCCT will take place soon after all the  airlines have moved to the Kuala Lumpur International Airport 2 (klia2).

    Malindo Air, the Philippines' Cebu Pacific Air, Singapore's Tiger Airways and Indonesia's Mandala Airlines and Lion Air will move to klia2 today, while the AirAsia Group will relocate on May 9.

    "As soon as all the airlines have moved to klia2, MAHB will make plans to  redevelop the LCCT," another source said.

    The source said MAHB has received offers from local and institutional funds to  fund the development in return for a stake in the project.

    These include Permodalan Nasional Bhd and  Employees Provident Fund.

   "Currently, valuable cargo and lower-end products go to Singapore.

   "MAHB hopes that with the transformation of the LCCT into a modern cargo and logistics hub, it will attract some of the players, especially those who are moving expensive cargo," the source added.

 

Eversendai wins new contracts in the Middle East and India

By Sharen Kaur

   Eversendai Corp Bhd recently secured a string of contracts for structural steel projects worth an estimated RM172.2 million through its subsidiaries in the Middle East and India, increasing its order book to RM1.3 billion.
  Among the projects awarded, there were 2 contracts valued at over RM40 million and the first project is to construct a complex on Dana Island in Doha, Qatar.  
  The scope of work undertaken by the Group includes connection design, supply, fabrication and erection of steel.
  The construction of this complex is scheduled to be completed by December 2014.
  The second large project involves the construction of a facility for the International Airport in Jeddah, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.  This brand new state-of-the-art facility will handle the carriers’ existing and new aircraft engines and is expected to be completed by January 2015.  
  "We continue to strengthen our foothold in the Middle East by also securing the contract for an entertainment centre as well as another unique architectural landmark in Dubai; a window frame-like structure which is intended to highlight the old and new sides of the city. Both projects in Dubai will complement and contribute to the UAE’s growing popularity as a tourism hub," said Eversendai founder, Tan Sri AK Nathan.
  Eversendai’s success story in the Middle East has been the ability to adapt to the local cultures which has greatly enhanced the group's reputation and to be a well sought-after organisation.
  "We can rely on our enviable reputation to bid for upcoming projects in line with the Dubai World Expo 2020 and simultaneously strengthen our position as a global player in the booming construction market in
the region," Nathan said.  
  He said, having already built many iconic structures, the Group can take great pride in securing the contract for yet another landmark project, a grand mosque located in Al Ain, Abu Dhabi.
  Eversendai will be carrying out the design, supply, fabrication and erection of steel for this project which is expected to be completed by February 2015.
  "With our vision to continuously move to new frontiers, the Group is pleased to have been awarded a contract for the design, fabrication and erection of steel for a sky bridge in Kolkata, India," Nathan said.
  He said India has the potential to become one of Eversendai’s growing markets in the coming years and the launch of its fifth fabrication facility in Trichy would help boost its productivity in the Asian region.
  "With increased job opportunities, we are happy to have secured these contracts which prove that Eversendai remains a strong player in the industry. We have a strong and established management who oversees the areas of planning, procurement and execution in a timely manner.
  "This combined with our team of experienced managers, engineers and skilled work force has made us a leading and innovative global organisation. We remain committed to our core values of compliance to safety, conformance to quality, adherence to schedule and ensuring consistent client satisfaction as we look forward to a fruitful year in 2014.
  "In line with our tagline, ‘Towering – Powering – Energising – Innovating’, Eversendai is continuously looking at delving into new opportunities in inter-related industries whilst maintaining our commendable performance and track record," Nathan said.

ENDS

Industry awaiting RFP for Track 4 plants

By Sharen Kaur

KUALA LUMPUR: The Energy Commission has yet to issue a request for proposal (RFP) notice to build new power plants under the so-called Track 4, fuelling speculation that it may pursue direct negotiations for the projects instead of competitive bidding.

 Two coal-fired power plants, coded Track 4A and 4B, are in the works following the recent award of Track 3B contract to 1Malaysia Development Bhd (1MDB) to build a 2,000-megawatt (MW) power plant for an estimated RM11 billion.

  Business Times understands that construction of Track 4A and 4B are expected to begin in June next year at a cost of between RM8 billion and RM10 billion and have combined capacity of about 2,000MW.

 An industry source said the notice should have been issued by now as the process from RFP to award and then start of construction might take more than a year to complete.

  The industry, he said, had earlier expected the RFP to be issued on Monday.

 "The perceived delay in issuing the RFP notice for Track 4 has raised concerns that the contracts may be awarded on a direct negotiation basis. It looks like the commission is going back to the old style of awarding contracts for power plants," a source said.

   Prior to 2012, power generation licences were issued through direct negotiations, a process that some critics said did not ensure selection of the most cost-efficient proposal.

  The commission subsequently decided to open up the bidding process.

 The first gas-fired power plant in Prai, Penang, coded Track 1, was awarded under competitive bidding to Tenaga Nasional Bhd (TNB), following its proposal to sell electricity at 34.7 sen per kWh, which was the lowest price.

  The commission has so far awarded contracts to build four power plants, namely Track 1, 2, 3A and 3B through the competitive bidding process.

  Track 3B's 2,000MW coal-fired power plant project attracted four bidders - YTL Power International Bhd, 1MDB, Malakoff Corp Bhd and TNB.

 1MDB won the bid because of its "most competitive" proposal,  ahead of closest rival YTL Power, which was said to have offered the lowest price.

 It was reported that YTL Power did not meet the commission's requirement for the Track 3B power plant to be based on proven ultra supercritical or supercritical technology.
 

MAHB plans catalytic projects at KLIA Aeropolis

By Sharen Kaur
Published in NST on April 30, 2014

DIVERSIFIED AIRPORT CITY: Mega development includes cargo and logistics hub, commercial business district, a theme park

MALAYSIA Airports Holdings Bhd (MAHB) is planning catalytic projects at KLIA Aeropolis here, which will spur domestic and foreign investments in the multi-billion ringgit development.

More than 2,428ha of the 8,966ha KLIA Aeropolis has been developed, while the undeveloped area is planted with oil palm trees.

The development is located about six kilometers from the Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) and the Kuala Lumpur International Airport 2 (klia2).

MAHB senior general manager of planning, Mohd Khair Mirza, said several catalytic projects are at planning stages, including a cargo and logistics hub, a commercial business district and a theme park.

“KLIA Aeropolis is a mega development and we have interested parties who want to invest in it. We are talking to them,” he said on the sidelines of the ground-breaking of Mitsui Outlet Park KLIA, here, yesterday.

Mohd Khair had earlier said about 1,000ha has been reserved for the theme park and the size suits Disneyland, whose operator is looking for a site to expand in this region.

KLIA Aeropolis will also feature a free commercial zone, a centre for meetings, incentives, conventions and exhibitions, hotels, natural conservation and green tourism zones, which will be completed within the next five to 10 years.

Mohd Khair said KLIA Aeropolis, when completed, will help increase MAHB’s non-aeronautical revenue and net profit contribution to between 60 per cent and 70 per cent. 

Currently, non-aeronautical businesses contribute more than 50 per cent to the national airport operator’s revenue and net profit.

For fiscal year 2013, MAHB, which manages 39 airports in Malaysia and overseas, posted a net profit of RM388.93 million on revenue of RM4.09 billion.

MAHB chairman Tan Sri Dr Wan Abdul Aziz Wan Abdullah said that KLIA Aeropolis will spark growth for the company, KLIA, klia2, retailers and aviation companies.

“Our vision is to transform KLIA into a diversified airport city with significant business, tourism and employment opportunities,” he said.

He added the encouraging growth in passenger movements augurs well for the KLIA Aeropolis vision, whose critical returns, among others,  is the opportunity to expand the group’s non-aeronautical base, in line with its 2010-2014 business direction.

Avani Sepang - Fun and relaxing getaway

By Sharen Kaur
Published in Travel Times, NST on April 17, 2014

For a great family outing or just to de-stress, there’s Avani Sepang Goldcoast Resort, writes Sharen Kaur

I HATE driving to Sepang because of the scorching sun and haze but when there’s a night’s stay at the newly re-branded Avani Sepang Goldcoast Resort at the end of the journey, I just can’t resist it!

Travellers have been raving about the resort which is located on the Selangor coast near Sepang International Circuit — home to the Formula 1 Grand Prix — and a 45-minute drive from Kuala Lumpur International Airport.

I set out at 8.30am from KL and arrive at the resort 90 minutes later.

It is a long drive but scenic after I pass the Sepang International Circuit as the route takes me through beautiful countryside of hills and kampung houses.

Along the way, I wonder what the resort looks like now that it has been re-launched under the Avani flag following the completion of the first of two phases of a RM15 million refurbishment programme.

Thailand-based Minor Hotel Group owns the Avani brand and renamed the property. It was formerly known as Golden Palm Tree Iconic Resort & Spa.

As I walk into the lobby to check-in, I am awed by the beautiful settings. The resort comprises sea villas set in the shape of a palm tree, spreading out over the sheltered waters of the Strait Of Malacca.

Without wasting time. I get my key and head for the one-bedroom villa that sits on the trunk of the “palm”. I place my luggage inside the room and change into something more comfortable to enjoy the facilities.

Then I grab a bicycle for moving around and get a better picture of the place. The resort has over 400 bicycles for the complimentary use of its guests.

Grab a bicycle and cycle around the neighbouring kampung.

I am also hungry and thirsty, so I head for Sepoi-Sepoi restaurant which serves local and western food.

After lunch I go to the beach to enjoy the breeze and watch activities ranging from sailing, kayaking, canoeing and windsurfing to beach soccer and sand painting for the younger kids. And it’s all complimentary.

Sunset at the five-star resort reflects the intimacy and natural beauty of the Sepang coastline.

Stunning sunset adds romance to the Polynesian-inspired water chalets.

My day isn’t ended yet but already, I am convinced that Avani Sepang Goldcoast Resort is perfect for eco-adventure, family-friendly fun and a relaxing getaway.

FAST FACTS

HOTEL
Avani Sepang Goldcoast Resort (formerly Golden Palm Tree Iconic Resort & Spa)

GETTING THERE
Use the Maju Expressway and head towards LCCT Sepang. Turn left at the traffic lights before the Sepang International Circuit. Follow signboards from there.

MAIN ATTRACTION
Polynesian-inspired water chalets

FIRST IMPRESSION
Nice and cosy

ROOMS
392 contemporary Polynesian-inspired one-, two- and three-bedroom villas built on stilts with Balinese-inspired alang-alang roofing.

F&B OUTLETS
Nine outlets that can do better

OVERALL SERVICE
Within expectations

PLACES WITHIN WALKING DISTANCE
Bagan Lalang beach, homestays, seafood restaurants. Nearby attractions include Sepang Goldcoast Environment Interpretive Centre (Malaysia Nature Society), Sepang Riverine Mangroves Sanctuary and Wetlands, Orang Asli settlement and handicrafts centre.
 

Avani Sepang Goldcoast Resort is a perfect retreat to de-stress.

  

New Pullman head upbeat revenue will grow by 5-8pc

By Sharen Kaur
Published in NST on April 28, 2014

KUALA LUMPUR: The new head of Pullman Kuala Lumpur Bangsar is upbeat the hotel will break even on a revenue of RM50 million in its first year of operation.

“It is a tough target, and it is given to motivate and drive the team,” said Eric Tan, the hotel general manager who came on board last month.

Tan told Business Times recently he is upbeat that revenue will also grow by between five and eight per cent on a yearly basis.

Pullman Bangsar, which is the Accor Group’s largest hotel in Southeast Asia by rooms, started operations five months ago.

The hotel has 513 rooms but only 350 are open at the moment. Based on that count, the hotel’s occupancy is at 60 per cent.

Tan has no qualms of achieving 50 to 55 per cent occupancy once all the rooms are opened and to raise that to over 65 per cent from the third year of operation.

He said the light rail transit (LRT) line extension and MRT projects, and the KL Sentral transport hub in Brickfields, which is linked to the Kuala Lumpur International Airport and the Kuala Lumpur International Airport 2 will help the hotel to grow.

“Many people see this area as very secluded and not central but I take it as a plus point. If you look at the city hotels, their location is quite congested because of the on-going LRT and MRT works.

“That is a plus point for us as many local and foreign leisure travellers are now coming over to this side. We have a LRT station within walking distance from the hotel, which is connected to KL Sentral, and it is attracting a lot of corporate and MICE business for us.”

Meanwhile, Tan said the building owner, Cygal Development Sdn Bhd, will invest between US$4 million and US$5 million (RM13 million and RM16 million) to improve the facade and open two new outlets.

“We are adding two iconic outlets, including a Skybar on the 28th floor. All these improvements will be completed by the first or second quarter of next year,” Tan said.

Accor, which is a French hotel operator, is managing and operating Pullman Bangsar for Cygal Development.

It also manages seven other properties in Malaysia, including Pullman Putrajaya Lakeside, Pullman Kuching, Novotel Kuala Lumpur City Centre and ibis Styles Kuala Lumpur Cheras hotel.

KSK taps Kempinski for Conlay project

By Sharen Kaur
Published in NST on April 16, 2014

KUALA LUMPUR: KSK Group Bhd will bring Europe's oldest luxury hotel outfit, Kempinski, to its RM4 billion Jalan Conlay project, here, adding another opulent accommodation to the city, said sources.

    Formerly known as Kurnia Asia Bhd, the group is developing a mixed-use project on a 1.6ha site in Jalan Conlay, next to Prince Hotel & Residence.

    KSK acquired the land for RM568 million from Suasana Simfoni Sdn Bhd in a deal that was completed last month.

    The project will be developed by its subsidiary, KSK Land Sdn Bhd, and  will feature three towers and a 200,000 sq ft retail podium.

   The sources said the tallest tower is 60-storey high and will house the five-star hotel and serviced apartments, which are expected to be managed by Kempinski.

    The other two blocks, standing at 50 and 55 storeys each, will comprise luxury condominiums.

     According to the sources, KSK had considered either Kempinski and Nevada-based gaming and hospitality company, MGM Resorts International, to manage the hotel and serviced residences.

     Kempinski is an international hotel chain founded in Berlin, Germany, in 1897.

     It is majority controlled by Thailand's Crown Property Bureau, a Royal Thailand authority responsible for administering the properties of the Royal House of Thailand.

    Kempinski operates around 80 historic grand hotels, city hotels, resorts and residences in 30 countries in Europe, the Middle East, Africa and Asia.

    KSK Land  will develop the Conlay project starting year-end. The project is slated to be completed by 2020.

     "KSK Land will also launch the condominiums by year-end. No price is fixed yet, but it will surely be above RM2,500 per sq ft.

    "There will be competition from Banyan Tree residences and Harrods Hotel, which are also under construction in Jalan Conlay.  KSK Land, however, is bullish on property sales and is targeting 50 per cent local investors," the sources said.

      The KSK group is expected to use part of the RM1.63 billion obtained from the sale of its core insurance business, Kurnia Insurans (M) Bhd, to AmG Insurance Bhd in September 2012, to fund the project's initial stage.

     The group, which currently focuses on growing its two general insurance operations in Indonesia and Thailand,  ventured into property development last year.

‘No concrete plan for Mutiara Beach Resort’

By Sharen Kaur
Published in NST on April 14, 2014

25-YEAR-OLD PROPERTY: Tradewinds focusing on mega projects in Langkawi, KL

TRADEWINDS Corp Bhd, may only look at redevelopment plans for Mutiara Beach Resort in Penang next year, said a key official.

“We have too much on our plate to start planning now, with two major ongoing projects in Langkawi and the large developments in Kuala Lumpur. We are focusing on these mega projects,” the official said.

According to him, the Penang resort project has not reached the drawing board and there is no concrete plan as to what the company may want to do there. 

“Of course, the best thing is to have more rooms so that there will be a good return on investment. Whether we sell the property or not would depend on the market situation and the offers,” he said.

The 25-year-old property, which is located on 4.05ha in Jalan Teluk Bahang, has been closed since 2006.  There were earlier plans to renovate and rebrand the property as InterContinental Resort Penang.

However, both Tradewinds and InterContinental mutually terminated the management contract in early 2009.

Tradewinds, which owns eight hotels and resorts, is developing the RM4 billion Perdana Quay and the Burau in Langkawi for RM420 million.

In Kuala Lumpur, Tradewinds' existing projects include the upgrading of Menara Tun Razak and the development of Tradewinds Centre in Jalan Sultan Ismail, both of which are projected to cost more than RM4 billion.

The group is demolishing the 40-year-old Crowne Plaza Mutiara Hotel and 33-year-old Kompleks Antarabangsa to make way for the Tradewinds Centre, which has an estimated gross development value of more than RM7 billion.

Tradewinds has said it will redevelop the 2.8ha site on its own over seven years.

The project will comprise a 65-floor skyscraper and 54-storey bloc of residences, Grade A+ offices, a 24-storey corporate block, a large-scale 14-storey medical centre, retail offices, serviced apartments and hotel.

At Menara Tun Razak, Tradewinds is upgrading the 35-storey office tower and constructing a new 40-storey office tower adjacent to it.

“Tradewinds’ financial results will improve tremendously from next year as property sales from some of the projects start to kick in,” the official said.

Its last financial results for the six months ended June 30, 2013, showed that it made RM75.44 million in net profit from RM474.57 million in revenue.  Its total assets stood at RM3.6 billion.

The 25-year-old Mutiara Beach Resort in Penang has been closed since 2006.

TREC set to make its mark in Kuala Lumpur

By Sharen Kaur

NEW CONCEPT: Avant City plans international tenant mix for RM400m entertainment hub

THE RM400 million TREC entertainment hub here will change the city's night life, and provide a boost to the tourism sector and local economy.

Developed by Avant City Sdn Bhd, TREC will open in the third quarter of next year and would be comparable to Singapore's Clark Quay, Hong Kong's LanKwai Fong and Shanghai's Xin TianDi. It will be developed on a 2.83ha site at the Royal Selangor Golf Club (RSGC).

                   Electric Boulevard - set to be one of the world’s most exciting night-time destinations

                                              TREC’s ground-breaking concept and design

It will feature front-row views over the spectacular greens of the golf course in Jalan Tun Razak and sit directly opposite the billion-ringgit Tun Razak Exchange. 

                                                        Dining with a view of the golf course

Avanti City, which is owned by Daman Land Sdn Bhd (35 per cent), Modern Falcon Sdn Bhd (35 per cent) and Berjaya Assets Bhd (30 per cent), has leased the land for 30 years.

The coming together of these companies will ensure that TREC is sustainable, and it would provide a new destination for local and international clubbing and dining enthusiasts.

Daman Land is controlled by Datuk Douglas Cheng and his father Tan Sri David Cheng. They own several outlets and clubs, including the Dragon-i and Canton-i Chinese restaurants.

Modern Falcon is run by Cher Ng, the co-founder of Zouk KL, and his business partners. Berjaya Assets is the developer of Berjaya Times Square in Jalan Imbi, here.

"The idea for TREC came from Ng, who had to relocate Zouk KL from its present location in Jalan Ampang. We saw the piece of land at the golf course and decided to set up TREC there.

"The project will cost RM152 million and funded via equity by the three parties," the younger Cheng told Business Times.

TREC, comprising five unique zones, will have a net lettable area of 256,000 sq ft and the anchor will be the new Zouk KL.

"We are talking to club owners in the United Kingdom and restaurant operators in Indonesia, Thailand and Singapore to lease the space for between RM10 and RM12 per sq ft.

"We want a good tenant mix for TREC. We are looking for new concepts and don't want what is already in Kuala Lumpur. I am very bullish TREC will be fully taken up before its opening next year," he said.

Avani Sepang sees revenue exceeding RM50m this year

By Sharen Kaur

SEPANG: Avani Sepang Goldcoast Resort is confident its revenue will exceed RM50 million this year as it targets Asia Pacific and European travellers.

The five-star resort (formerly known as Golden Palm Tree Resort & Spa) in Bagan Lalang, Sepang, expects its revenue to post double-digit growth year-on-year in 2014, said its general manager Thomas Fehlbier.

The resort, which began operations in 2010, is owned by Sepang Goldcoast Sdn Bhd (SGSB) and operated by Thailand-based Minor International.

SGSB is a joint venture between the Selangor investment arm Permodalan Negeri Selangor Bhd and Sepang Bay Sdn Bhd, a subsidiary of Indonesia's Istana Group.
They have invested more than RM200 million to set up the resort, which has 389 studio, two-bedroom and three-bedroom villas that spread out into the sea in the shape of a palm tree.

                                    

Minor International took over the management of the resort from Hong Kong-based Swiss-Belhotel International a year ago and has completed a re-branding exercise recently.

Avani is among the more than 100 hotels and resorts in Southeast Asia owned and managed by Minor International.

Fehlbier said under the new management, Avani Sepang Goldcoast is moving up its ante to provide world-class services to travellers.

Some RM7 million has been invested to upgrade the lobby and clubhouse, and another RM8 million will be spent to set up a kids club, a multi-purpose hall and a pool, he said.

"We are changing our marketing approach by reducing occupancy and increasing room rates.

"We are targeting travellers who want to stay for at least a week, especially Europeans and Australians," he said.

The majority of the stay-in guests are locals and the rest are tourists from Australia, Vietnam, Singapore and parts of Europe.

"We are quite confident that more foreigners will stay with us because of the changes that we are making. We are trying to regain the European market," he said.

The villas are priced at between RM500 (studio) and RM2,400 (three-bedroom) a night and the rates will be increased by 15 per cent this year, Fehlbier said.

Last year, the rates were raised by 18 per cent.