Malaysia Airlines – launches 2020 Sale

Malaysia Airlines’ has launched a New Year Sale with up to 35 per cent off fares on both Economy Class and Business Class.

The sale which runs until January 20, 2020, will allow passengers to travel at any time through the year until December 31, 2020.

And there are some amazing savings on fares to be had. For instance, all-in one-way economy class fares to Penang, Langkawi and Johor Baru start from RM89, Kuching from RM129, Kota Kinabalu from RM179, Phuket from RM219, Jakarta from RM229 and Bangkok from RM259.

If you are looking to start 2020 by exploring places and immersing yourself into different cultures, then travellers will be able to choose from destinations in India, China, Korea and Australia. Ina statement from Malaysia Airlines you will be able to access all-in return economy class to Chennai from RM899, Kochi from RM699, Shanghai from RM1,199, Seoul from RM1,399, Brisbane from RM1,599, London from RM2,899 and Auckland from RM2,999.

On top of this the airline will be offering extremely competitive bundle deals, offered at a 20 per cent discount to its valued customers to.

Included in the value bundle, there is an additional 10kg of baggage available for passengers booking a standard seat, with further benefits for those with a premium bundle where passengers will be entitled to KLIA Golden Lounge Access addition to a seat with extra legroom.

Commenting on the launch of the New Year sale, Malaysia Airlines Group chief marketing and customer experience officer, Lau Yin May (pictured) explains that the sale provides Malaysia Airlines passengers with amazing deals to Fly Malaysia.

“We proudly support Tourism Malaysia’s Visit Malaysia 2020 campaign as the nation’s flag-bearer, and the sale strives be the final jigsaw piece for many travellers all over the globe, who’ve no doubt been enticed to make Malaysia their next holiday getaway.

“Experience Malaysian Hospitality from the start of your journey and immerse yourself in the authentic and unique culture we have to offer, from local fashion to the pristine nature we have been blessed with,” she said.

With travel schedules being planned frequently for business travellers, those travelling to and from Asia on a regular basis can make considerable savings by planning in advance and taking advantage of the reduced fares on offer.

Shangri-La Hotel, Kuala Lumpur Collaborates with La Memoria to Welcome a Magical Christmas with a North Pole Wonderland Themed Afternoon Tea Party for the Family

Kuala Lumpur, 11 December 2019 – On 1 December 2019, Shangri-La Hotel, Kuala Lumpur collaborated with La Memoria to create a magical North Pole Wonderland experience for families with a specially curated kids Afternoon Tea menu at the Lemon Garden Terrace. The event took place from 3- 6pm, officially kick starting the Festive Season at the hotel.

Executive Pastry Chef, Mr. Roberto Hernandez and his team have planned the special kids Afternoon Tea menu with items presented on an edible chocolate afternoon tea stand. Treats served include Polar Bear Macaron, Burrrrberry Lemon Tart, White Chocolate Snowflake, Frosty the Snowman, Hot Chocolate Candy Christmas Ball, Fresh Fruit Skewer, Tiny Gingerbread Men and Rudolph while on the savory side, PBJ Sandwich, Cucumber Cream Cheese Yule Log and Mrs. Clauses Egg Sandwiches were offered to satisfy all taste buds.

La Memoria, an events organizer established in 2011 is an award winning integrated Event Management Company known to deliver innovative events and creative booths. To date they have worked with clients such as Shell, Lazada and Frieslandcampina.

Lemon Garden Terrace at Shangri-La Hotel, Kuala Lumpur was transformed into a North Pole Wonderland with a fun baby blue and white backdrop filled with cute characters like penguins, a giant polar bear and gingerbread men. There were games for the family to participate. Aiming skills were tested with the ring toss game and a snow ball “fight” with 2
Polar bears and penguins characters. Children also tried their luck at the claw machine to win themselves adorable plush toys.

After the Afternoon Tea was served, families participated in face painting, cookies workshop led by Chef Roberto and his team for an interactive decorating session and a mirror art workshop organized by the La Memoria team.

Shangri-La Hotel, Kuala Lumpur also offered an educational gardening session to help the children build a Herb Garden at the hotel. The session took place by the Koi Pond and the participants were briefed before they start planting their own herbs in recyclable milk cartons. The children were encouraged to revisit the hotel to check on their herb plants’ growth as the milk cartons will be labelled with their names. The goal of this activity is to encourage learning among children and give them a sense of pride when the chefs use the herbs grown by them in the hotel menu.

There were plenty of beautiful photo taking spots throughout the hotel. Guests were encouraged to share their magical North Pole Wonderland moments on Facebook with the hashtag #SLKLNorthPoleWonderland #shangrilakl to be in the running to receive a complimentary voucher for Seafood Dinner Buffet at Lemon Garden for 2 persons (blackout dates apply).

La Memoria, in collaboration with Shangri-La Hotel, Kuala Lumpur is offering six themed packages ideal for birthday celebrations. The themes include Woodland, Kingdom –Prince, Under The Sea, Big Shots, Sports and Special. The two packages on offer are:

Junior Deluxe Package

30- 40 kids RM12, 888 40 -60 kids RM18, 888
Decoration
x1 3D Backdrop
x1 Entrance Arch
Registration Station Design
Thematic E-invite
Cake cutting stand
Food
Cold Snacks:
Vegetables Guacamole Bite
Pulled Beef/ Pumpkin Bun
Turkey/Cheddar Cheese Sandwich
Tuna Confit Sandwich

Hot Snacks:
Baked Mac and Cheese
Salmon Teriyaki Skewer
Turkey/ Tomato Pizza Wheels
Beef Burger/ Smoked Beef
Mini Hot Dog/ Ketchup Mayo
Chicken Lollipop/ Barbeque Sauce
Fish Finger/ Tartar Sauce
French Fries

Cakes & Candies
3D Birthday Cake
Assorted Cupcakes
Lollipop
Fruits Jelly Cups
Mixed Candy Jars
Carrot Cake/ Cream Cheese Frosting
Chocolate Fountain with Marshmallow
Ice Cream with Condiments
Fruits
Door Gift thematic cookie bag

Junior Premier Package

30- 40 kids RM20, 888 40 -60 kids RM29, 988
Decoration
x1 3D Backdrop
x1 Entrance Arch
Registration Station Design
Thematic E-invite
Cake cutting stand
Thematic Kids & Parents Table Deco
Thematic Dessert Table Deco
Thematic Dummy Cake 2/3 Tiers Display
Food
Cold Snacks:
Vegetables Guacamole Bite
Pulled Beef/ Pumpkin Bun
Turkey/Cheddar Cheese Sandwich
Tuna Confit Sandwich

Hot Snacks:
Baked Mac and Cheese
Salmon Teriyaki Skewer
Turkey/ Tomato Pizza Wheels
Beef Burger/ Smoked Beef
Mini Hot Dog/ Ketchup Mayo
Chicken Lollipop/ Barbeque Sauce
Fish Finger/ Tartar Sauce
French Fries

Cakes & Candies
3D Birthday Cake
Assorted Cupcakes
Lollipop
Fruits Jelly Cups
Mixed Candy Jars
Carrot Cake/ Cream Cheese Frosting
Chocolate Fountain with Marshmallow
Ice Cream with Condiments
Fruits
Door Gift thematic cookie bag

Add ons:
– Thematic Game Booth (RM1,500)
– Claw Machine (RM1, 800)
– Magician/ Balloonist/ Clown (RM750)
– Face Painting (RM1, 000)
– Art & Craft / Mirror Art/ Messy Play @ Outdoor Area (RM1, 200)

Shangri-La Hotels and Resorts, an iconic flagship brand of the Shangri-La Group, currently operates over 80 deluxe hotels and resorts with a room inventory of over 35,000. Renowned for its distinctive Asian hospitality, the Company has properties in destinations of Australia, Canada, Mainland China, Hong Kong SAR and Taiwan, Fiji, France, India, Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia, Maldives, Mauritius, Mongolia, Myanmar, Philippines, Singapore, Sri Lanka, Sultanate of Oman, Thailand, Turkey, the United Arab Emirates and the United Kingdom. The group’s award-winning Golden Circle loyalty programme extends to all properties of Shangri-La Hotels and Resorts worldwide. For more information, visit www.shangri-la.com.

PRESS CONTACT:
Neena Dewi
Director of Communications
Shangri-La Hotel, Kuala Lumpur
Tel: (60 3) 2032 2388
Fax: (60 3) 2031 4927
E-mail: [email protected]
Website: www.shangri-la.com/kualalumpur

SHANGRI-LA HOTEL, KUALA LUMPUR LIGHTS UP “THE MAGICAL BELLS OF HOPE” CHARITY CHRISTMAS TREE TO KICKSTART “EMBRACE THE GIFT OF LIFE” CAMPAIGN

Kuala Lumpur, 3 December 2019 – Shangri-La Hotel, Kuala Lumpur officially launched its annual charity project Embrace The Gift of Life to support children with severe heart ailments and other serious medical conditions. To date, Shangri-La Hotel, Kuala Lumpur has raised over RM4 million and support hundreds of critically ill children through this charity project.

This year, the hotel followed Shangri-La Group’s chosen theme – A North Pole Wonderland. Ten variations of Magical Bells of Hope ornaments are arranged on ten tiers of rotating conical steel structure seen on the giant Christmas Tree, with baby blue and silver as main theme colours. These glittery handmade ornaments reflect the colours of happiness and wonders of life, symbolising the hope we bring to children with serious ailments as well as the chance to live a fulfilling life post-surgery. Each ornament is artfully designed by our Pastry team, led by our newly appointed Executive Pastry Chef, Mr. Roberto Hernandez.

The lighting up of the Christmas Charity Tree ceremony officially took place at the hotel’s main lobby on Thursday 28 November 2019, 6pm. Organizations and individuals are welcomed to support this annual fund-raising charity by sponsoring one or more ornaments with a minimum donation of RM1,000 per set. Donations can be made via the forms available at the Front Office desk or online at www.shangri-la-specials.com and the donor’s name or company logo will be displayed below each set of ornaments. Proceeds will be collected for the children who are in urgent need of immediate surgery and medical care.

Past recipients of the charity fund and underprivileged children from United Nations High Commissioner for Refugee (UNHCR) and Taman Megah Homes for Disabled Children were invited to have a high-tea session at Shangri-La Hotel, Kuala Lumpur’s all day dining outlet Lemon Garden.

This year, “Embrace the Gift of Life” funds four children but we are looking to support more.

One-year-old Shah Jahan Bin Mohammad Shah Alam is diagnosed with Ventricular Septal Defect (Hole in the Heart) and needs to undergo VSD closure. His father works at wholesale market in Selayang and mother is a housewife. The estimated cost for this surgery will be RM 50,000.

One-year-old Muhammad Izz Mahdi Bin Rizman was diagnosed with Ventricular Septal Defect needs to undergo VSD closure. Muhammad was admitted to Ampang Hospital for an urgent surgery in August 2019. His father works as a System Engineer and mother is a housewife. The estimated cost for this surgery is RM60,0000.

One-month-old Muhammad Syaqif Bin Mohamad Jefry is diagnosed with Double outlet right ventricle, Ventricular Septal Defect (VSD), Coarctation of the Aorta, Large Patent Ductus Arteriosus (PDA) and he requires an urgent surgery to repair the Coarctation and Ligation of PDA. The estimated cost for this surgery is RM80, 000.00.

One-year-old Yama Wazin is a refugee from Afghanistan who is diagnosed with Mitral Atresia, Single Functioning Ventricle and Patent Ductus Arteriosus ligation. He requires a second stage of surgery called Cardiac Catheterization and Glen Shunt. The estimated cost for this surgery is RM90,000.00. His father work as a Marketing Officer and his mother is a housewife.

For donation or further enquiries, kindly call 03-2074 3586 or email [email protected]

Shangri-La Group is committed to operating in an economically, socially and environmentally responsible manner while balancing the interests of diverse stakeholders.  We strive to be a leader in corporate citizenship and sustainable development and our CSR initiatives are focused on five key areas namely environment & biodiversity, community engagement, sustainable supply chain, employee development and health & safety.

The two CSR programmes at the hotel levels – Embrace & Sanctuary – are aimed at promoting education and the environment. Embrace, Shangri-La’s Care for People project, looks at the highest level of education and health support needed in under-privileged communities. Sanctuary, Shangri-La’s Care for Nature project, promotes the conservation and restoration of biodiversity.

For more information, please visit the group’s CSR section on www.shangri-la.com.

香格里拉集团坚持对经济、社会和环境带来可持续影响的经营方式,并兼顾各权益相关者的利益平衡。我们致力于成为有责任感的企业公民和可持续发展的领导者。我们的企业社会责任聚焦于五个重点,包括环境与生物多样性保护、社区帮助、可持续供应链建设、员工发展、以及健康与安全保障。

集团旗下酒店的“香格里拉人文关怀”和“香格里拉关爱自然”两大项目分别针对教育和环保而设立。“人文关怀”项目专注于帮助社会弱势群体获得更好的教育及健康服务;“关爱自然”项目着重于推广生物多样性的生态保护与恢复。

更多详情,请登录香格里拉集团网站http://www.shangri-la.com“企业社会责任”页面进行查询。

PRESS CONTACT:
Neena Dewi
Director of Communications
Shangri-La Hotel, Kuala Lumpur
Tel: (60 3) 2032 2388
Fax: (60 3) 2031 4927
E-mail: [email protected]
Website: www.shangri-la.com/kualalumpur

For digitised pictures of the group’s hotels, please go to http://www.shangri-la.com/imagelibrary.

Festive Promotions @ Shangri-La Hotel Kuala Lumpur

Festive Indulgence at Lafite

Lafite

Be inspired by the exquisite dining experience at Lafite, Shangri-La Hotel Kuala Lumpur this holiday season. Treat your senses to a unique French-inspired feast that will leave you craving for more!

CHRISTMAS EVE

Deluxe Dinner buffet

7:00PM – 10:30PM

RM410 nett per person

NEW YEAR’S EVE

6-course set Dinner menu

7:00PM – 10:30PM

RM680 nett per person

 

 

CHRISTMAS DAY

Deluxe Lunch buffet

(Complimentary wine & beer)

12:00PM – 2:30PM

RM410 nett per person

 

* EARLY BIRD OFFER:

RM350 nett per person

 

A La Carte and Set Dinner Menu

are available on Christmas Day

7:00PM – 10:30PM

 

 

* EARLY BIRD OFFER:

RM620 nett per person

·         Full payment is required by 10 December 2019.

·         All payments received are non-refundable in the event of any reduced number of diner(s) or cancellation.

·         This offer is not valid with any other credit card discounts, membership privileges, offers, vouchers and point redemptions.

Festive Delights Arthur’s Bar & Grill

Arthur’s Bar & Grill

Enjoy a festive get-together at our Manhattan-style Bar and Grill where you will find that the beverages are top of the line and the spread are ever so mouth-watering!

CHRISTMAS EVE

4-course Dinner with carving trolley

7:00PM – 10:30PM

RM278 nett per person

 

NEW YEAR’S EVE

Dinner Buffet with Countdown Party

7:00PM – 10:30PM

RM298 nett per person

CHRISTMAS DAY

4-course Lunch with carving trolley

12:00PM – 3:00pm

RM278 nett per person

 

4-course Dinner with carving trolley

7:00PM – 10:30PM

RM278 nett per person

 

Festive Offerings at Zipangu

Zipangu

This Festive Season, take in the joyous occasion to reminisce on memorable events throughout the year whilst indulging over our specially curated Japanese spread.

CHRISTMAS EVE

Izakaya Specials Dinner

6:30PM – 10:30PM

RM268 nett per person

NEW YEAR’S EVE

8-course Japanese Dinner set menu

6:30PM – 10:30PM

RM490 nett per person

 

* EARLY BIRD OFFER:

RM418 nett per person

 

CHRISTMAS DAY

Izakaya Specials Lunch

12:00PM – 2:30PM

RM268 nett per person

 

Izakaya Specials Dinner

6:30PM – 10:30PM

RM268 nett per person

 

* EARLY BIRD OFFER:

RM228 nett per person

NEW YEAR’S DAY

Lunch & Dinner

Osechi Set Menu

From 1st – 4th January 2020

RM318 nett per person

 

  EARLY BIRD OFFER:

·         Full payment is required by 10 December 2019.

·         All payments received are non-refundable in the event of any reduced number of diner(s) or cancellation.

·         This offer is not valid with any other credit card discounts, membership privileges, offers, vouchers and point redemptions.

Festive Afternoon Tea at Lobby Lounge

estive Afternoon Tea at Lobby Lounge

Celebrate the season with an afternoon tea overlooking a serene view of our Koi Pond and urban greenery.

CHRISTMAS AFTERNOON TEA

From 15th November – 30th December 2019

3:00PM – 6:00PM

RM85 nett per person

RM150 nett per person with

one glass of Prosecco Sparkling Wine

RM80 nett per person (digital voucher)

 

*Digital vouchers can be purchased at www.shangri-la-specials.com

Countdown Party at Lobby Lounge

Countdown Party at Lobby Lounge

Dance into the New Year with our Countdown Party filled with lively music, delicate champagnes and fun-filled party packs for everyone!

31st December 2019

8:00PM till late night

 

Table for 2 at RM690 nett

1 bottle of champagne

 

Table for 4 at RM1200 nett

2 bottles of champagne

 

Table for 6 at RM1700 nett

3 bottles of champagne

 

* Minimum spending per person  RM345

* Add on one seat                             RM200

Festive Feast at Lemon Garden

Festive Feast at Lemon Garden

If your stomach is on a quest for a buffet spread fit for a King, then Lemon Garden is the place to be! Get the family together and join us with our fabulously festive menu featuring a multitude of local and international dishes to the delight of your tastebuds.

Festive Lunch and Dinner Buffet

1st – 30th December 2019

(Except 24 & 25 December)

Festive Lunch Buffet

Monday – Friday (12:00PM – 2:30PM)

RM140 nett per person

 

Saturday (12:00PM – 3:00PM)

RM160 nett per person

 

Sunday (12:00PM – 3:00PM)

RM180 nett per person

 

Festive Dinner Buffet

Sunday – Thursday (6:30PM – 10:30PM)

RM170 nett per person

 

Seafood Dinner Buffet

Friday & Saturday (6:30PM – 10:30PM)

RM226 nett per person

 

EARLY BIRD OFFER:

30% OFF Lunch Buffet

25% OFF Dinner Buffet

·         This offer is applicable daily from 1st – 30th December 2019, excluding 24th and 25th December.

·         This offer is only valid for a minimum booking of 15 adults and above with full payment by 30th November 2019.

·         All payments received are non-refundable in the event of any reduced number of diner(s) or cancellation.

·         This offer is not valid with any other credit card discounts, membership privileges, offers, vouchers and point redemptions.

 

 

CHRISTMAS EVE

Lunch Buffet

12:00PM – 3:00PM

RM198 nett per person

 

Dinner Buffet

6:30PM – 10:30PM

RM298 nett per person

NEW YEAR’S EVE

Lunch Buffet

12:00PM – 3:00PM

RM198 nett per person

 

Dinner Buffet

with party packs

6:30PM – 10:30PM

RM298 nett per person

 

CHRISTMAS DAY

Lunch Buffet

12:00PM – 3:00PM

RM298 nett per person

 

Dinner Buffet

6:30PM – 10:30PM

RM298 nett per person

 

NEW YEAR’S DAY

Lunch Buffet

12:00PM – 3:00PM

RM220 nett per person

 

Dinner Buffet

6:30PM – 10:30PM

RM220 nett per person

 

* A dedicated Children corner at the Hotel Lobby with a myriad of fun activities, Santa Claus and clown appearance is available for all lunch diners.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Turkey Delights at Lemon Garden 2Go

Turkey Delights at Lemon Garden 2Go

A luscious roast turkey is the centrepiece of your Christmas lunch or dinner. It makes the most pleasing gift too for friends and family.

25th November – 23rd December 2019

Roasted Whole Turkey with Chestnut and Raisin Stuffing Giblet Gravy, Cranberry Chutney, Festive Vegetables, Braised Red Cabbage and Roasted New Potatoes.

Prices:

S:            RM600 (4 to 6 persons)

M:          Rm700 (8 to 10 persons)

L:             Rm800 (10 to 12 persons)

 

Roasted Whole Turkey with Chestnut and Raisin Stuffing.

Prices:

S:            RM400 (4 to 6 persons)

M:          RM500 (8 to 10 persons)

L:             RM600 (10 to 12 persons)

 

Festive Hampers at Lemon Garden 2Go

 

25th November – 23rd December 2019

 

A premium hamper brimming over with festive goodies and treats is just the gift for friends, family and business associates this Christmas. Get it custom-made at Lemon Garden 2Go to add a personalized touch.

 

JOLLY DIAMOND

RM998 nett

Traditional Stollen

Christmas Fruit Cake

Christmas Cookies

Christmas Pudding

Home-made Pralines

Rustic Minced Pie

Ginger Santa Claus

Dark Choc Boot with Almond Rocher

Gingerbread Man Cookies

Premium Tea

Honey

Champagne

EMERALD SANTA

RM698 nett

Traditional Stollen

Christmas Fruit Cake

Christmas Cookies

Home-made Pralines

Ginger Santa Claus

Dark Choc Boot with Almond Rocher

Gingerbread Man Cookies

Premium Tea

Red Wine

JINGLE PLATINUM

RM398nett

Traditional Stollen

Christmas Fruit Cake

Christmas Cookies

Home-made Pralines

Rustic Minced Pie

Ginger Santa Claus

Sparkling Juice

 

 

Festive Season Getaway

 

Enjoy great rewards this festive season at Shangri-La Hotel, Kuala Lumpur; where we offer you the perfect chance to relax, renew and revive your senses, with a festive break that will cater to your family needs.

 

FESTIVE DELIGHT

Family Premiere Suite from RM970++ per night onwards inclusive of Horizon Club Lounge access and participate in a range of family activities:

  • Festive Craft
  • Kitchen Tour
  • Ice Cream Sundae Party
  • Gardening
  • Treasure Hunt

Terms & conditions:

  • Valid for bookings made from now until 21 December 2019.
  • Valid for stay from 21 December 2019 to 1 January 2020.
  • Not valid with other discounts, promotions, privilege cards or group bookings.
  • All rates are subject to a 10% service charge, 6% government tax and RM10 Tourism Tax per room per night (Tourism Tax is applicable to non-Malaysians only)

EXPERIENCE THE CITY WITH THE GARDENS – A ST GILES SIGNATURE HOTEL & RESIDENCES

Experience Kuala Lumpur with The Gardens – A St Giles Signature Hotel & Residences. Located in the precinct of Mid Valley City, 647 hotel rooms and residences, complementing its two other sister properties in the same locale; the 390-room The Boulevard – A St Giles Hotel and the 646-room Cititel Mid Valley.

The 448 Deluxe and Executive Premier hotel rooms, ranging from 38-42 square meters are furnished in warm contemporary tones with complimentary WiFi access, a choice of pillows and a host of comfort amenities provided in your room.

At the Residences tower, 199 units comprising of 79 square meters one bedroom apartments, up to 130 square meters for two bedroom modules, are fully furnished with kitchenette and modern amenities, ideal for families or for an extended stay with complimentary WiFi access and self-service laundry facility.

For Executive Room guests, the Executive Lounge at the top floor with KL city views offers an exclusive retreat with complimentary breakfast, evening drinks, personalised services with free WiFi access and complimentary usage of boardroom.

Whether you are staying at the Hotel or the Residences, privacy is assured as each guest room door is single facing into our corridor. In addition the Hotel has a separate entrance and lobby from the Residences. Access to Hotel facilities from the Residences, is easily and conveniently available to all guests via the 5th floor.

Conference and meeting organisers are spoilt for choice with the Gardens Ballroom at Level 5 supported by 9 Skyview Rooms on Levels 28 and 29. The ballroom accommodates up to 700 (theatre style) whereas the Skyview rooms seat 20 – 100 persons with natural daylight and fronting panoramic vistas of the city.

The Spread on Level 6 features all day local and international specialties with an ‘al fresco’ dining option. The award-winning Sage Restaurant & Wine Bar, one of KL’s finest offers a fusion of balanced French-Japanese cuisine. Ri-Yakitori Bar serves up signature white charcoal grilled Japanese Kushiyaki delights whilst enjoying your favourite drink or unwind after a long day at our Lobby Bar. For guests who just prefer to relax in the comfort of our cozy rooms, our 24-hour “Cuisine on Call” in-room dining service is ever ready.

Recreational facilities include a modern equipped gymnasium with a commanding view of the city where you can enjoy a workout or spend a lazy afternoon lounging by the saltwater pool amidst the buzz of the city down below. For continued leisure and shopping experience, stroll through The Gardens Mall and the Mid-Valley Megamall with 630 retail, food and entertainment options, one of Malaysia’s largest mall offerings

With its unbeatable location within minutes of Kuala Lumpur city centre, it is undoubtedly the favourite address for business and leisure travellers.

The Gardens – A St Giles Signature Hotel & Residences, offers a smoke-free environment in all its guestrooms and enclosed public areas.

The Gardens – A St Giles Signature Hotel & Residences
The Gardens, Mid Valley City, Lingkaran Syed Putra, 59200 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Tel : 03-2268 1211 • Fax : 03-2287 0289
Email : [email protected]
Website : www.StGilesHotels.com

How Gamuda Land is tackling climate change

Climate change has captured the world’s attention.

As extreme climatic phenomena inundate countries with haze, heatwaves, storms and flash floods, the world once again begins to take a step back and reflect on the causes and actions to be taken.

The anxiety also alarms the younger generation, leading to significant climate movements that have seen the rising of personalities like 16-year-old Greta Thunberg from Sweden who appears to be the face of climate change activism.

It has since spurred many leaders, law-makers, large corporations and ordinary people to relook into their policies, operations, businesses and lifestyle to effectively address the issue.

Yet, in areas of tackling climate change, town-maker and multi-award-winning developer Gamuda Land has in fact long espoused the principle of working with nature and reconnecting its community with the natural environment.

This philosophy encompasses all their developments, both large and small.

The developer’s foresight of masterplanning and building by respecting nature are best exemplified in Valencia, given the fact that the development is now close to 20 years old.

Many of the results seen in the township today are by-products of steps taken in the past, verifying and reassuring that its town-making principles and methods were suitable and effective.

Committed towards sustainability

Moving on from here, to consolidate all these learning, Gamuda Land set up Gamuda Parks in 2018 – a self-driven pioneering initiative that carries a mandate to deliver, implement, manage, maintain and safeguard the well-being of the living environment in all its developments.

To-date, the developer has invested in about 262,000 trees, 432 acres (174.8 ha) of water bodies and 2,005 acres (811.4 ha) of green parks.

The number of trees planted thus far is equivalent to sequestrating more than 200,000lbs (about 90,700kg) of carbon, effectively absorbing carbon dioxide emitted from 1,651 cars.

“At Gamuda Land, we are guided by sincerity, committed to act responsibly and motivated by originality where we assiduously practise the principle of being ‘mindful’.

“A critical aspect of our town-making is listening to what the land has to tell us and permitting the terrain and topography of a site to dictate the language of the masterplan design,” states Gamuda Parks chief operating officer Khariza Abd Khalid.

Through mindful approach, the developer successfully transformed an uninspiring golf course into Valencia, a 278-acre (112.5-ha) luxurious township in Sungai Buloh.

Part of the methodologies include advance tree planting in strategically planned positions and careful selection of flora species according to the benchmark of the neighbouring Forest Research institute of Malaysia (FRIM), turning Valencia into a tropical setting with 30% of the land dedicated to greenery and water bodies.

“Terrain guided practice helps minimise the need for ‘cutting and filling’ the land as well as importing and exporting earth,” explains Khariza.

“With this, we attained better slope stability, efficient rainwater filtration and reduced soil erosion, which also resulted in varying scenic vista for each home.

“Meanwhile, to create privacy and protect homes from errant airborne golf balls, we established indigenous woodland belts around the golf fairways that served as natural screens.

“These green buffers not only inject a cooling and panoramic element into their surroundings but double as nurturing grounds for growing biodiversity,” Khariza added.

After almost 20 years, Valencia’s undulating green has grown into a signature sight, verifying and reassuring that the town-making principles and methods were suitable and effective.

Harnessing technology and science to nurture nature

For the past year, Gamuda Parks has collaborated with a panel of experts to formulate a “Gamuda Parks Biodiversity Policy”, which was recently published in August 2019.

These experts from different disciplines include senior forest botanist and head of the Flora Biodiversity Programme at FRIM Dr Richard Chung, Wetlands International Malaysia chairperson Dato’ Paduka Hj Keizrul Abdullah, and AGV Sustainability and ESG Services director and principle consultant Datin Dr Vijayalakshmi Samuel.

Their valuable input following methodical scientific research has resulted in the policy that governs the conservation of biodiversity and the management of ecosystems through masterplanning, design, development and maintenance of all the Gamuda Land developments.

The policy covers the green (flora maintenance), blue (waterscapes) and brown (material management) elements, aiming to encourage robust biodiversity since the best indicator of a healthy ecosystem is the volume and range of different species found within an area.

At the same time, Gamuda Parks has undertaken comprehensive biodiversity audit and data compilation exercise not only for its developing and new projects like Gamuda Cove and Gamuda Gardens, but also for Valencia, despite the fact of being sold out and completed many years ago.

Timely environmental responsiveness is critical to contain damage to an ecosystem.

The Dalai Lama summed it up best when he said, “The natural environment sustains the life of all beings universally.”

Thus, committed to leaving the lands in better shape before it was first received, it is only fitting that Gamuda Land included Valencia in the audit.

Gamuda Parks has introduced fun and interactive initiatives such as the recent World Habitat Day Celebration at Valencia to help raise awareness among the residents and even enlist new recruits into its green school of ideology as GParks Rangers.

Biodiversity audit in forested township

“We are the first property developer in Malaysia to adopt a comprehensive scientific approach to measure the quality of the living environment within our developments.

As a result, we are now better placed to monitor and coordinate measures to safeguard and enhance the presence of biodiversity within Valencia and other developments,” asserts Khariza, adding that the developer practises transparency and encourages knowledge sharing where the findings were published on its website.

“It appears that we already have a useful head start in Valencia,” says Khariza.

“We discovered that our principle of working with nature has borne fruit resulting in a hospitable environment for all our residents.

Valencia resident Shamina Nordin attests that beautiful landscapes in that neighbourhood goes a long way towards relieving stress.

“Our audit in the forested Valencia recorded, among others, 46 species of fauna including mammals, birds and herpetofauna, as well as a diverse and colourful medley of insects,” she adds.

“We have also classified 345 species from 95 flora families, such as ferns, herbaceous plants, shrubs and trees. Of the many fruiting trees found, the pièce de résistance is the Dillenia indica or Indian Simpoh.

“A deciduous tree frequently found on the banks of rivers and streams. Their large-sized fruits are said to be savoured by elephants, thus earning it the moniker, ‘elephant apple’.

“Furthermore, its juicy pulp is rich with saponin and can be used as soap.

“During the audit, we also detected several species of trees that are listed as ‘vulnerable’, ‘near threatened’ and even ‘critically endangered’ in the Red List of Threatened Species under the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).

“These trees have now been tagged for extra supervision and care.

“Moving forward, we will be engaging a lake specialist to perform ‘lake quality tests’ to ascertain and improve the water quality of all the lakes so that we can reinforce the biodiversity of the aquatic ecosystem as well,” continues Khariza.

For the full article on Standing the test of time – please visit https://gamudaland.com.my/standing-the-test-of-time/

Source: The Star – 18th Oct 2019

Need help in setting up a new business in KL. Let InvestKL guide you

InvestKL partners with various government agencies to attract MNCs from USA, Europe and Asia Pacific to conduct their regional business, innovation, talent hubs and high-value business services activities to enhance their company’s growth in Asia.

Greater KL has been ranked by the Economist Intelligence Unit as the second-most competitive global city in Southeast Asia, offering MNCs an ideal base for Management, Finance and Trading activities.

MANAGE

Regional Nerve Centre

MNCs which establish their regional headquarters in Greater KL, MNCs can look forward to the following incentives:

  • 100% tax exemption of statutory income for 10 years on business income, interest income and royalties.
  • Customs duty exemption for raw materials, components or finished products.
  • Expatriates are taxed according to chargeable income attributable to the number of days spent in Malaysia.

The eligibility for regional headquarters comprises:

  • Locally incorporated entity.
  • Minimum operating expenditure of USD500,000 (RM1.5 million) annually.
  • Paid-up capital of USD165,000 (RM500,000).
  • Serve three related companies outside Malaysia.
  • Provide three MNCs and their expatriate employees qualifying services to related companies.

FINANCE

Regional Treasury Management Centre

Malaysia’s financial stability, as evidenced by its resilience through the recent global financial crisis, in addition to its established financial system and global leadership in Islamic finance, make it an ideal base as a regional Treasury Management Centre.

Coupled with the presence of a wide range of local and international banks as well as sound infrastructure, companies operating under the regional TMC banner can enjoy:

  • 70% tax exemption for 5 years (effective 7.5% tax rate) on Qualifying TMC income earned outside Malaysia.
  • Full exemption (for the portion less than or equal to 20% of all TMC Income) on Qualifying TMC income earned within Malaysia.
  • Withholding tax exemption on interest payments to overseas banks and related companies.
  • Stamp duty exemption on all loan and service agreements executed for conduct of qualifying TMC activities.
  • Expatriates are taxed according to chargeable income attributable to the number of days spent in Malaysia.

The eligibility requirements for TMCs comprise:

  • Local incorporation.
  • Minimum total business spending of USD500,000 (RM1.5 million) per year.
  • Paid-up capital of USD165,000 (RM500,000).
  • Must provide any qualifying treasury services to at least three related companies outside of Malaysia.

Activities that enable a TMC to qualify for incentives include:

  • Cash, Financing and Debt Management.
  • Investment Services.
  • Financial Risk Management.

TRADE

Global Offshore Commodities Trading

From oil and gas to crude palm oil, Malaysia has established itself as a global player in the commodities market. In an effort to move higher up the commodities value chain, the country is firmly focused on attracting global commodities traders to its shores, spearheaded by the Global Incentives For Trading (GIFT) programme.

Originally introduced for petroleum and petroleum-related products, carbon credits and minerals, the GIFT programme now includes other commodities such as agriculture, refined raw materials, base minerals and chemicals.

Eligibility for the GIFT programme comprises:

  • Generate a minimum turnover of US$100 million annually.
  • Incur business spending of at least USD1 million (RM3 million) annually.
  • Employ at least three professional traders.
  • Use and engage local support services.

The following is the list of incentives and benefits for the GIFT programme:

  • Flat corporate tax rate of 3% (except LNG).
  • 100% tax exemption for LNG trading companies for the first three years of operations, if they sign up for the GIFT programme before 31 December 2014. From 1 January 2015, these companies will revert to the 3% tax regime.
  • 100% exemption on director fees for non-Malaysians.
  • 50% exemption on gross employment income for non-Malaysians.
  • Tax exemption of stamp duties for Labuan business activities.
  • Tax exemption on dividends received by or from Labuan International Trading Commodity Company (“LITC”)

For further information on business opportunities in KL then visit – http://www.investkl.gov.my/

Malaysia is now the world’s 12th easiest place to do business

Malaysia has jumped three spots on a World Bank ranking for the world’s easiest places to do business, up from 15th place last year.

It is now among five Asian economies that made it into the ranking’s top 15. The others are Singapore (2nd place), Hong Kong (3rd), Korea (5th) and Taiwan (15th).

The ranking, published on Thursday (Oct 24) in the Doing Business 2020 report, assessed economies on areas including property registration, tax payments, contract enforcement and insolvency procedures.

Malaysia scored highly on access of electricity, with the world’s most reliable electricity supply and most transparent tariff indexes, the report said. It shared top spot for electricity access with Costa Rica and Ireland.

It also made dealing with construction permits easier by streamlining the process and eliminating the road and drainage inspection performed by Kuala Lumpur City Hall this year, the report noted.

The World Bank added that the country had formed a regulatory reform committee to improve the coordination of efforts across Government agencies and issuing a certificate of completion report took two weeks or less – compared to six months in poorer-performing economies.

Malaysia, China and the UK were also the economies with greatest extent of disclosure index when it came to protecting minority investors.

The World Bank added that China (31st place) was among the top 10 most-improved for ease of doing business and had established eight reforms in areas like cross-border trading, minority investor protection, and electricity access.

Source: https://www.businessinsider.my/malaysia-is-now-the-worlds-12th-easiest-place-to-do-business-world-bank-report/

UOB programme aims to spur switch to solar power

United Overseas Bank (UOB) has launched a programme that links Asian businesses and individuals with its solar company partners to help clients go green and switch to solar power, it said yesterday.

The programme, U-Solar, was first launched in Malaysia, with a likely roll-out in Singapore later this year. It will also launch in other South-east Asian countries such as Thailand and Indonesia later on.

Its platform currently lists packages from UOB Malaysia’s solar partners – ERS Energy, PlusSolar and Solarvest – that corporates and individuals can take up to install solar power infrastructure in their factories, offices and houses.

The bank will have different solar partners for each market.

UOB’s collaboration with these firms will offer installation, commissioning, operations and after-sales service packages for solar power systems.

The bank is also offering a suite of financial solutions and loans that can be used to fund these projects as well as the solar companies’ capital needs.

These include sukuk (Islamic financial certificate), project loans, portfolio financing and cash management services for solar project developers.

For engineering, procurement and construction contractors, UOB is offering end-to-end, contract-based financing solutions, from bid bonds and letters of credit issuance to performance guarantees and working capital facilities.

Mr Wong Kim Choong, chief executive of UOB Malaysia, said: “Through our research and engagement with our customers, we observed that many of them think using solar power requires intensive upfront capital and is costly to maintain.

“With U-Solar, we hope to help our customers understand better the benefits of using solar power and to address their concern of costs by providing them with flexible repayment plans at competitive market rates.”

UOB shares closed down 0.23 per cent at $25.89 yesterday.

Source: https://www.straitstimes.com/business/banking/uob-programme-aims-to-spur-switch-to-solar-power

Malaysia’s tallest tower opens its doors

[KUALA LUMPUR] Malaysia’s tallest skyscraper is ready to take in tenants from December, its developer said on Wednesday, looking to move past its links to the 1MDB scandal and focus on making headway in an oversupplied property market.

Exchange 106 is the first project to be completed in the Tun Razak Exchange (TRX), a new financial district in capital Kuala Lumpur that was started by now-defunct state fund 1Malaysia Development Berhad (1MDB), from which about US$4.5 billion was misappropriated according to prosecutors.

The 492-metre tower, taller than Malaysia’s Petronas twin towers, came under scrutiny in March last year after the then government of Prime Minister Najib Razak, who co-founded 1MDB in 2009, bought a 51 per cent stake in the project. He acquired the stake just two months before he was ousted in a general election amid popular anger over corruption.

But with the completion of the 106-storey glass and steel tower, and support from the new administration led by Najib’s former mentor-turned-foe, Mahathir Mohamad, Indonesian developer Mulia Group believes the spectre of 1MDB is now behind them.

Source: https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/real-estate/malaysias-tallest-tower-opens-its-doors