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As the air and sea territorial dispute enters a second week, it could negatively impact investor sentiment in the already lukewarm property market in Iskandar Malaysia.
By Khalil Adis
By Khalil Adis
View of the Tuas Second Link to Johor. Singapore and Malaysia are currently embroiled in a maritime dispute in the Straits of Johor. Photo: Khalil Adis Consultancy.
The simmering tension brewing in the Straits of Johor between Singapore and Malaysia has now entered its second week.
In fact, it is like watching history repeating itself.
Growing up during the Lee Kuan Yew era, I recall how both countries would often trade barbs over water to territorial issues.
The relationship between both countries is best described as testy then.
However, much like brothers and sisters, we would soon kiss and make up.
Post the Lee Kuan Yew-Mahathir era, bilateral ties between both countries warmed up significantly under the leadership of Lee Hsien Loong and Mahathir's successors, Abdullah Badawi and Najib Razak.
While the later remains highly unpopular among Malaysians, several win-win deals were concluded between both countries which arose from the land swap deal.
They included the joint development of DUO in Bugis and Marina One by M + S Pte Ltd (Malaysia and Singapore, in case you don't know)
Over in Iskandar Malaysia, Singapore agreed to develop two wellness centre called Afiniti Medini and Avira.
Subsequently, CapitaLand invested in A2 Danga Island.
Until today, the project has yet to be launched.
With bilateral relations going from cold to warm and back again to cold, we analyse how this will impact the property market across the causeway.
#1: Investors will likely adopt a ‘wait-and-see' approach to Iskandar Malaysia
In fact, it is like watching history repeating itself.
Growing up during the Lee Kuan Yew era, I recall how both countries would often trade barbs over water to territorial issues.
The relationship between both countries is best described as testy then.
However, much like brothers and sisters, we would soon kiss and make up.
Post the Lee Kuan Yew-Mahathir era, bilateral ties between both countries warmed up significantly under the leadership of Lee Hsien Loong and Mahathir's successors, Abdullah Badawi and Najib Razak.
While the later remains highly unpopular among Malaysians, several win-win deals were concluded between both countries which arose from the land swap deal.
They included the joint development of DUO in Bugis and Marina One by M + S Pte Ltd (Malaysia and Singapore, in case you don't know)
Over in Iskandar Malaysia, Singapore agreed to develop two wellness centre called Afiniti Medini and Avira.
Subsequently, CapitaLand invested in A2 Danga Island.
Until today, the project has yet to be launched.
With bilateral relations going from cold to warm and back again to cold, we analyse how this will impact the property market across the causeway.
#1: Investors will likely adopt a ‘wait-and-see' approach to Iskandar Malaysia
Horizon Hills in Iskandar Puteri. Photo: Khalil Adis Consultancy.
This is almost similar to the pre-Iskandar Malaysia era under Abdullah Badawi's leadership when the special economic zone was first announced.
I recall covering a few stories on Iskandar Malaysia then where I had interviewed several Singaporeans.
During that time, many had expressed scepticism on Iskandar Malaysia and avoided buying a property at Horizon Hills.
Back then, it was then launched within the minimum investment threshold of RM250,000.
However, that changed once the land swap deal was concluded in 2010.
As our bilateral ties improved, so did investors' confidence.
As a result, properties in Iskandar Puteri and Medini began selling like hot cakes.
Meanwhile, units at Horizon Hills was transacted at almost three times the launch price as developments at Legoland Theme Park, EduCity and Puter Harbour were gathering pace.
With both countries now embroiled in a maritime dispute, investors are most likely to adopt a similar approach until the issue is resolved
#2: Market sentiment in Iskandar Malaysia the most affected
I recall covering a few stories on Iskandar Malaysia then where I had interviewed several Singaporeans.
During that time, many had expressed scepticism on Iskandar Malaysia and avoided buying a property at Horizon Hills.
Back then, it was then launched within the minimum investment threshold of RM250,000.
However, that changed once the land swap deal was concluded in 2010.
As our bilateral ties improved, so did investors' confidence.
As a result, properties in Iskandar Puteri and Medini began selling like hot cakes.
Meanwhile, units at Horizon Hills was transacted at almost three times the launch price as developments at Legoland Theme Park, EduCity and Puter Harbour were gathering pace.
With both countries now embroiled in a maritime dispute, investors are most likely to adopt a similar approach until the issue is resolved
#2: Market sentiment in Iskandar Malaysia the most affected
Aerial view of Leisure Farm Resort in Iskandar Puteri. Photo: Khalil Adis Consultancy.
July's property cooling measures have made it even more difficult for Singaporeans to buy a private property in the Lion City as the loan-to-value (LTV) limit has been reduced from 80 per cent to 75 per cent if the loan tenure does not exceed 30 years for the first property.
Logically, this makes Iskandar Malaysia much more attractive due to its close proximity to Singapore as we share many similar customs, culture and speak similar languages.
However, the property market is very much sentiment driven as described above.
With Iskandar Malaysia being the closest to Singapore, this will be the property market that will be the most affected.
#3: Developers will face an uphill task in marketing their units
Logically, this makes Iskandar Malaysia much more attractive due to its close proximity to Singapore as we share many similar customs, culture and speak similar languages.
However, the property market is very much sentiment driven as described above.
With Iskandar Malaysia being the closest to Singapore, this will be the property market that will be the most affected.
#3: Developers will face an uphill task in marketing their units
A unit for sale at a condominium in Danga Bay. Photo: Khalil Adis Consultancy.
The property market in Iskandar Malaysia is already facing a challenging time due to the oversupply in the residential sector.
According to the first quarter of 2018 data from the National Property and Information Centre (NAPIC), Johor has the second highest number of existing stock of residential units at 795,363 in Malaysia.
The current political climate will no doubt be a double whammy for developers who are already struggling to move unsold units in their inventory.
With the High Speed Rail project now postponed, only the brand name of the developer will be able to win investors' confidence.
As such, developers who have a good reputation among Singaporeans and local buyers will stand to win.
Word-of-mouth marketing will be the way forward.
#4: Possible spillover impact in tourism and retail sectors
According to the first quarter of 2018 data from the National Property and Information Centre (NAPIC), Johor has the second highest number of existing stock of residential units at 795,363 in Malaysia.
The current political climate will no doubt be a double whammy for developers who are already struggling to move unsold units in their inventory.
With the High Speed Rail project now postponed, only the brand name of the developer will be able to win investors' confidence.
As such, developers who have a good reputation among Singaporeans and local buyers will stand to win.
Word-of-mouth marketing will be the way forward.
#4: Possible spillover impact in tourism and retail sectors
Johor Bahru City Square is a popular mall among Malaysians and Singaporeans. Photo: Khalil Adis Consultancy.
The allure of Malaysia is the affordable holiday destination, the many scenic nature and food trails it offers, its close proximity to Singapore and the strength of the Singapore dollar.
Thus, December is typically a busy month at the checkpoints as many Singaporeans go for a short break to Johor and beyond.
As the tension escalates, Singaporeans are likely to stay away this holiday season unless absolutely necessary.
In such a scenario, the tourism and retail sectors in popular malls in Johor Bahru like City Square and KSL will be affected.
In addition, many reservist units and national servicemen are being recalled for mobilisation exercises.
Many will have no choice but to stay in Singapore.
#5: Malaysians will also be affected
Thus, December is typically a busy month at the checkpoints as many Singaporeans go for a short break to Johor and beyond.
As the tension escalates, Singaporeans are likely to stay away this holiday season unless absolutely necessary.
In such a scenario, the tourism and retail sectors in popular malls in Johor Bahru like City Square and KSL will be affected.
In addition, many reservist units and national servicemen are being recalled for mobilisation exercises.
Many will have no choice but to stay in Singapore.
#5: Malaysians will also be affected
Motorist heading to the Woodlands Checkpoint. Photo: Khalil Adis Consultancy.
The current situation affects not just Singaporeans but also Malaysians living in Johor.
In fact, many brave the causeway in the wee hours every morning just to feed their family back home.
As we speak, Johoreans have expressed their concerns that their livelihood in Singapore may be impacted and hope the issue can be resolved amicably.
In fact, many brave the causeway in the wee hours every morning just to feed their family back home.
As we speak, Johoreans have expressed their concerns that their livelihood in Singapore may be impacted and hope the issue can be resolved amicably.
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2018 is a watershed moment for Malaysia's politics and the subsequent impact on the property market. We list down the key highlights in our 2018 property market roundups and our outlook for 2019.
By Khalil Adis
By Khalil Adis
The Malaysian flag, also known as Jalur Gemilang ("Stripes of Glory") against the backdrop of the recently completed Sungai Buloh - Kajang Line (SBK Line) which is a project of national importance. Photo: Khalil Adis Consultancy
May 10 2018 was a watershed moment in Malaysia as it marked the first change of government in the country's history.
Since 1957, it had enjoyed an uninterrupted reign from the ruling Barisan Nasional (BN) coalition.
However, the high cost of living, falling Ringgit, the lack of affordable homes in the market, high unemployment among fresh graduates, the unfettered check on power and the 1MDB scandal proved to be the undoing for BN as Malaysians far and wide casted their protest vote in the ballot box
The message from Malaysians is clear - they have had enough and want a new, clean government to lead the way.
With the Pakatan Harapan government now in power, all eyes are on the newly elected old Prime Minister Tun Mahathir Mohamad and his team to solve the pressing bread and butter issues.
Here are the top five property market roundups for 2018 and our top five outlooks for 2019.
Roundups
#1: Demand-supply mismatch has resulted in an increasing number of unsold homes
Since 1957, it had enjoyed an uninterrupted reign from the ruling Barisan Nasional (BN) coalition.
However, the high cost of living, falling Ringgit, the lack of affordable homes in the market, high unemployment among fresh graduates, the unfettered check on power and the 1MDB scandal proved to be the undoing for BN as Malaysians far and wide casted their protest vote in the ballot box
The message from Malaysians is clear - they have had enough and want a new, clean government to lead the way.
With the Pakatan Harapan government now in power, all eyes are on the newly elected old Prime Minister Tun Mahathir Mohamad and his team to solve the pressing bread and butter issues.
Here are the top five property market roundups for 2018 and our top five outlooks for 2019.
Roundups
#1: Demand-supply mismatch has resulted in an increasing number of unsold homes
Luxury condominium developments surrounding the iconic Petronas Twin Towers. Malaysia is facing a housing glut in the medium to the high-end segment and a severe undersupply of affordable homes. Photo: Khalil Adis Consultancy.
According to Bank Negara, 80 per cent of homes or 146,196 units priced above RM250,000 remained unsold as of end March 2018.
In comparison, 130,690 units were unsold during the same period last year.
"Imbalances observed in the property market continue to persist," Bank Negara had said in a statement.
#2: Rent-to-own scheme being rolled out
In comparison, 130,690 units were unsold during the same period last year.
"Imbalances observed in the property market continue to persist," Bank Negara had said in a statement.
#2: Rent-to-own scheme being rolled out
Bukit Puchong Sales Gallery by Ayer Holdings. The developer is among one of the few offering a rent-to-own scheme for their Foreston and Epic Residence projects. Photo: Khalil Adis Consultancy
To help ease the entry for the first time property buyers, the private sector has come up with a few initiatives.
Some private developers like Ayer Holdings have introduced a ‘Stay & Own' scheme for their Epic Residence and Foreston projects whereby part of the rent will be converted to the downpayment.
This not only provides a temporary solution for those who urgently need a home but also a form of security.
Meanwhile, Maybank has rolled a similar initiative called HouzKEY which they have called as "a rent-to-own solution that helps you to own your dream home."
The scheme involves zero per cent downpayment with the monthly rental forming part of the home financing.
#3: Ministry of Housing and Local Government studying Singapore's HDB model
Some private developers like Ayer Holdings have introduced a ‘Stay & Own' scheme for their Epic Residence and Foreston projects whereby part of the rent will be converted to the downpayment.
This not only provides a temporary solution for those who urgently need a home but also a form of security.
Meanwhile, Maybank has rolled a similar initiative called HouzKEY which they have called as "a rent-to-own solution that helps you to own your dream home."
The scheme involves zero per cent downpayment with the monthly rental forming part of the home financing.
#3: Ministry of Housing and Local Government studying Singapore's HDB model
A Built-to-Order (BTO) project in Punggol, Singapore by the Housing & Development Board (HDB). Photo: Khalil Adis Consultancy.
In July, Zuraida Kamaruddin, the Minister of Housing and Local Government paid an official visit to Singapore to study the HDB model.
Singapore has succeeded to build demand driven homes under its Built-to-Order (BTO) scheme to house 80 per cent of the Singapore population.
This is especially useful in Malaysia where there is currently a demand-supply mismatch as in point number one.
#4: Malaysia looking into having a single housing government agency
Singapore has succeeded to build demand driven homes under its Built-to-Order (BTO) scheme to house 80 per cent of the Singapore population.
This is especially useful in Malaysia where there is currently a demand-supply mismatch as in point number one.
#4: Malaysia looking into having a single housing government agency
The HDB Hub located in Toa Payoh. The HDB is a government housing agency that aims to provide affordable homes for all Singaporeans. Photo: Khalil Adis Consultancy
In Malaysia, there are so many affordable housing programmes being rolled out by the state and federal governments such as Rumah Milik Mampu, Rumah Selangorku, PR1MA, My First Home, Program Perumaha Rakyat and the list goes on.
This confuses the public.
The Malaysian government is currently looking into having a single housing agency to streamline the whole process much like the HDB model.
If implemented, this could solve the current Malaysian housing woe.
#5: More help for the B40, M40 and first-time homebuyers under Budget 2019
This confuses the public.
The Malaysian government is currently looking into having a single housing agency to streamline the whole process much like the HDB model.
If implemented, this could solve the current Malaysian housing woe.
#5: More help for the B40, M40 and first-time homebuyers under Budget 2019
Malaysians shopping for fresh produce at Pudu Wet Market in Kuala Lumpur. Budget 2019 will provide financial assistance to the targetted groups. Photo: Khalil Adis Consultancy.
More help is on the way for these group of property buyers as announced under Budget 2019.
The measures included the Real Estate and Housing Developers' Association (Rehda) agreement to cut prices by 10 per cent for new launches, the exemption of the Real Property Gains Tax (RPGT) for properties that are priced below RM200,000 and the stamp duty exemption for properties priced in the first RM300,000 up to RM500,000 as well as those priced from RM300,000 to RM1 million.
Outlook for 2019
#1: Affordable homes to continue driving the market
The measures included the Real Estate and Housing Developers' Association (Rehda) agreement to cut prices by 10 per cent for new launches, the exemption of the Real Property Gains Tax (RPGT) for properties that are priced below RM200,000 and the stamp duty exemption for properties priced in the first RM300,000 up to RM500,000 as well as those priced from RM300,000 to RM1 million.
Outlook for 2019
#1: Affordable homes to continue driving the market
Low cost housing near to Cochrane MRT station. There continues to be strong pent-up demand for affordable homes in Malaysia. Photo: Khalil Adis Consultancy.
There is currently a strong pent-up demand for affordable homes but where the supply is lacking.
As such, the affordable home segment will continue to be in strong demand for 2019.
However, there needs to be concerted efforts from both the government and private developers.
Under Budget 2019, the federal government has pledged to spend RM1.5 billion on such homes via the 1Malaysia People's Housing (PR1MA) and Syarikat Perumahan Negara Bhd (SPNB).
Meanwhile, Rehda has agreed to cut prices as stated above.
#2: South KL to be the growth area
As such, the affordable home segment will continue to be in strong demand for 2019.
However, there needs to be concerted efforts from both the government and private developers.
Under Budget 2019, the federal government has pledged to spend RM1.5 billion on such homes via the 1Malaysia People's Housing (PR1MA) and Syarikat Perumahan Negara Bhd (SPNB).
Meanwhile, Rehda has agreed to cut prices as stated above.
#2: South KL to be the growth area
The Leafz condominium located next to the Sungai Besi Highway. Southern KL is the next growth area in Kuala Lumpur. Photo: Khalil Adis Consultancy.
There are many infrastructure projects and economic drivers that are in the pipeline that will further boost property prices in Southern KL.
One such project is Bandar Malaysia will serve as the terminus station for the Kuala Lumpur-Singapore High Speed Rail (KL-Singapore HSR) project linking both cities in 90 minutes flat.
The development for the project has been postponed to two years and will now commence construction in 2020 instead of 2018.
Meanwhile, the express service will only commence by 1 January 2031 instead of 31 December 2026, as originally planned.
Bandar Malaysia has been designated as a site for the Digital Free Trade Zone (DFTZ) initiative by Jack Ma. Home to the Satellite Services Hub, DFTZ is expected to create some 60,000 direct and indirect jobs. It will also possibly serve as the interchange to the MRT Line 3, which has now been postponed.
Another economic driver in the vicinity is Tun Razak Exchange (TRX).
TRX will be a mixed-use development comprising a Grade A office space as well as residential and commercial precincts.
To be developed in several phases over a period of 15 years, the first phase will comprise four investment grade A office towers, a lifestyle retail mall, two 5-star hotels and up to six luxurious residential towers with a target completion date by 2019.
In addition, Bandar Malaysia will house two MRT stations - Bandar Malaysia North and Bandar Malaysia South which will form part of the alignment for the Sungai Buloh - Serdang - Putrajaya Line (SSP Line).
#3: Properties along Sungai Buloh - Serdang - Putrajaya Line (SSP Line) will be sought after
One such project is Bandar Malaysia will serve as the terminus station for the Kuala Lumpur-Singapore High Speed Rail (KL-Singapore HSR) project linking both cities in 90 minutes flat.
The development for the project has been postponed to two years and will now commence construction in 2020 instead of 2018.
Meanwhile, the express service will only commence by 1 January 2031 instead of 31 December 2026, as originally planned.
Bandar Malaysia has been designated as a site for the Digital Free Trade Zone (DFTZ) initiative by Jack Ma. Home to the Satellite Services Hub, DFTZ is expected to create some 60,000 direct and indirect jobs. It will also possibly serve as the interchange to the MRT Line 3, which has now been postponed.
Another economic driver in the vicinity is Tun Razak Exchange (TRX).
TRX will be a mixed-use development comprising a Grade A office space as well as residential and commercial precincts.
To be developed in several phases over a period of 15 years, the first phase will comprise four investment grade A office towers, a lifestyle retail mall, two 5-star hotels and up to six luxurious residential towers with a target completion date by 2019.
In addition, Bandar Malaysia will house two MRT stations - Bandar Malaysia North and Bandar Malaysia South which will form part of the alignment for the Sungai Buloh - Serdang - Putrajaya Line (SSP Line).
#3: Properties along Sungai Buloh - Serdang - Putrajaya Line (SSP Line) will be sought after
The alignment of the station along the SSP Line. Map: MRT Corp.
Speaking of the SSP Line, properties along the alignment, particularly those situated in the growth areas of Sungai Besi, Bandar Malaysia and Cyberjaya City Centre are worth looking into.
Bandar Malaysia will house two MRT stations as stated above and located a few stops away from Tun Razak Exchange MRT station.
Meanwhile, Sungai Besi MRT station is an interchange station to the Sungai Besi LRT station.
It will serve as an interchange to the upcoming High Speed Rail station located in Bandar Malaysia, also in Sungai Besi.
Last but not least, Cyberjaya City Centre MRT station is a transit-oriented development (TOD) project to be developed by Malaysian Resources Corp Bhd (MRCB).
With its experience in building the transport hub in KL Sentral, MRCB will be developing a new city that will be integrated with the MRT station.
Phase one is expected to generate a gross development value (GDV) of RM5.35 billion.
It will feature a 200,000 sq ft convention centre, a 300- to 400-room business hotel, low and high-rise office buildings and a retail podium. Cyberjaya City Centre will have a development plan spanning 20 years.
The MRT station is located just opposite Lim Kok Wing University of Creative Technology.
#4: Penang to get a boost from Phase 1 of Penang Transport Master Plan (PTMP)
Bandar Malaysia will house two MRT stations as stated above and located a few stops away from Tun Razak Exchange MRT station.
Meanwhile, Sungai Besi MRT station is an interchange station to the Sungai Besi LRT station.
It will serve as an interchange to the upcoming High Speed Rail station located in Bandar Malaysia, also in Sungai Besi.
Last but not least, Cyberjaya City Centre MRT station is a transit-oriented development (TOD) project to be developed by Malaysian Resources Corp Bhd (MRCB).
With its experience in building the transport hub in KL Sentral, MRCB will be developing a new city that will be integrated with the MRT station.
Phase one is expected to generate a gross development value (GDV) of RM5.35 billion.
It will feature a 200,000 sq ft convention centre, a 300- to 400-room business hotel, low and high-rise office buildings and a retail podium. Cyberjaya City Centre will have a development plan spanning 20 years.
The MRT station is located just opposite Lim Kok Wing University of Creative Technology.
#4: Penang to get a boost from Phase 1 of Penang Transport Master Plan (PTMP)
Ferry service from Georgetown to Butterworth. Soon, there will be more transportation options on the island. Photo: Khalil Adis Consultancy.
With Lim Guan Eng as Malaysia's Finance Minister, Penang's property market will get a further boost.
Just this month, Phase 1 of PTMP was approved.
It will comprise the Bayan Lepas Light Rail Transit (LRT) project, Pan Island Link 1 (PIL1) project and several main highways.
The proposed Bayan Lepas LRT line will be about 30 km in length with 27 stations running from KOMTAR to the future reclaimed islands in the south.
There will be three interchange stations - KOMTAR, Sky Cab Station linking it to the Sky Cab line across the Malacca Straits and The Light Station linking it to the George Town-Butterworth LRT line.
The LRT Line will also be integrated with the Sungai Nibong Express Bus Terminal at the Sungai Nibong Station.
Meanwhile, PIL 1 is a new 20km highway that will be aligned along the mountainous terrain of the island and will take around 15 minutes from between Gurney Drive to the Second Bridge.
There will be six interchanges in all - Dr Lim Chong Eu Expressway (LCE), Awang, Relau, Paya Terubong, Utama and Gurney.
#5: Johor Bahru to get a boost from the Rapid Transit System (RTS) Link
Just this month, Phase 1 of PTMP was approved.
It will comprise the Bayan Lepas Light Rail Transit (LRT) project, Pan Island Link 1 (PIL1) project and several main highways.
The proposed Bayan Lepas LRT line will be about 30 km in length with 27 stations running from KOMTAR to the future reclaimed islands in the south.
There will be three interchange stations - KOMTAR, Sky Cab Station linking it to the Sky Cab line across the Malacca Straits and The Light Station linking it to the George Town-Butterworth LRT line.
The LRT Line will also be integrated with the Sungai Nibong Express Bus Terminal at the Sungai Nibong Station.
Meanwhile, PIL 1 is a new 20km highway that will be aligned along the mountainous terrain of the island and will take around 15 minutes from between Gurney Drive to the Second Bridge.
There will be six interchanges in all - Dr Lim Chong Eu Expressway (LCE), Awang, Relau, Paya Terubong, Utama and Gurney.
#5: Johor Bahru to get a boost from the Rapid Transit System (RTS) Link
View of the Woodlands Checkpoint from the KTM service playing the Johor Bahru - Woodlands route. Soon, commuters can take the MRT from Bukit Chagar to Woodlands North MRT station instead. Photo: Khalil Adis Consultancy.
Meanwhile, over in the southern state of Johor, Iskandar Malaysia's muted property market will get a boost as the RTS Link will commence construction next year.
The RTS Link will link Bukit Chagar station in Johor Bahru to Woodlands North MRT station in Singapore when completed in 2024.
There are also plans for a Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system within Bukit Chagar station to link it to the different areas of Iskandar Malaysia.
The BRT will feature a dedicated bus lane with three lines - BRT Line 1 will span from Bukit Chagar to Tebrau, BRT Line 2 from Bukit Chagar to Senai and finally, BRT Line 3 from Bukit Chagar to Iskandar Puteri.
However, based on market talk in the ground, there is a possibility that the BRT system will be upgraded to an LRT system instead.
The RTS Link will link Bukit Chagar station in Johor Bahru to Woodlands North MRT station in Singapore when completed in 2024.
There are also plans for a Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system within Bukit Chagar station to link it to the different areas of Iskandar Malaysia.
The BRT will feature a dedicated bus lane with three lines - BRT Line 1 will span from Bukit Chagar to Tebrau, BRT Line 2 from Bukit Chagar to Senai and finally, BRT Line 3 from Bukit Chagar to Iskandar Puteri.
However, based on market talk in the ground, there is a possibility that the BRT system will be upgraded to an LRT system instead.
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Since taking power in May 2018, the newly formed government has announced a slew of policy changes that will impact developments in Iskandar Malaysia. We analyse the impact of its policy changes in Iskandar Malaysia and how they may affect you as a consumer.
The rapidly changing city skyline of Johor Bahru overlooking Singapore. Photo: Khalil Adis Consultancy
By Khalil Adis
Take a drive around Iskandar Puteri, Danga Bay and Johor Bahru and one cannot help but notice the rapidly changing skyline at this Malaysian state bordering Singapore.
Once seen as a buyers’ beware market, Johor has since 2008 rebranded itself as an up and coming economic zone called Iskandar Malaysia which is meant to complement the Lion City.
For a while, Singaporeans were afraid of buying Johor properties due to the many horror stories reported in the local press.
However, interest surged in 2010 after Singapore and Malaysia agreed to a land swap deal which led to Temasek Holdings and CapitaLand investing in Danga Bay and Medini respectively.
The warming bilateral relations, coupled with HDB flats hitting the million dollar mark, saw properties in Iskandar Malaysia being snapped up like hotcakes.
However, in the subsequent years, the entry of Chinese property developers like Country Garden, R&F and Greenland raised alarms of a potential oversupply as they appear to be building townships by the thousands.
Perhaps, more pronounced, is the development of the controversial Forest City project.
The project sparked concerns of environmental damage and land encroachment leading to an official protest from Singapore.
As a result, interests in Iskandar Malaysia started to wane as Singaporeans steered clear from the property market.
Here are the five impacts post GE-14:
Impact 1: No more foreigner only enclave
Take a drive around Iskandar Puteri, Danga Bay and Johor Bahru and one cannot help but notice the rapidly changing skyline at this Malaysian state bordering Singapore.
Once seen as a buyers’ beware market, Johor has since 2008 rebranded itself as an up and coming economic zone called Iskandar Malaysia which is meant to complement the Lion City.
For a while, Singaporeans were afraid of buying Johor properties due to the many horror stories reported in the local press.
However, interest surged in 2010 after Singapore and Malaysia agreed to a land swap deal which led to Temasek Holdings and CapitaLand investing in Danga Bay and Medini respectively.
The warming bilateral relations, coupled with HDB flats hitting the million dollar mark, saw properties in Iskandar Malaysia being snapped up like hotcakes.
However, in the subsequent years, the entry of Chinese property developers like Country Garden, R&F and Greenland raised alarms of a potential oversupply as they appear to be building townships by the thousands.
Perhaps, more pronounced, is the development of the controversial Forest City project.
The project sparked concerns of environmental damage and land encroachment leading to an official protest from Singapore.
As a result, interests in Iskandar Malaysia started to wane as Singaporeans steered clear from the property market.
Here are the five impacts post GE-14:
Impact 1: No more foreigner only enclave
View of Port of Tanjung Pelepas which is near to Forest City. Local fishermen have complained of reduced fishing since the controversial project begun. Photo: Khalil Adis Consultancy
Forest City is currently one of the mega projects under review by the Pakatan Harapan government.
Although Forest City is a relatively new entry to the property market, it was granted a special economic zone status much like Medini.
This confused the public while many local developers were reportedly not very happy about it.
For example, it was not subjected to build a specified number of low-cost homes or to allocate a certain percentage of its development for bumiputras.
In addition, there are no caps on foreign ownership but with a minimum price threshold at RM500,000 per strata unit for foreigners.
It was also granted a duty-free zone where buyers will automatically be eligible for the Malaysian My Second Home (MM2H) programme.
This programme enables foreigners to enjoy a long-stay visa of up to 10 years.
However, as of September 2018, MM2H will no longer be granted automatically.
In addition, the federal government has said a foreigner-only township is no longer allowed.
As it stands, the current entry price for a condominium here averages RM1,400 per sq ft which is way beyond what the locals can afford.
For now, the developer is required to build affordable homes for locals.
Meanwhile, the minimum purchase price for a foreigner has been reverted to RM 1 million per strata unit.
The only thing that remains is its duty-free zone status.
Impact 2: Longer development period for Gerbang Nusajaya and Iskandar Puteri
Although Forest City is a relatively new entry to the property market, it was granted a special economic zone status much like Medini.
This confused the public while many local developers were reportedly not very happy about it.
For example, it was not subjected to build a specified number of low-cost homes or to allocate a certain percentage of its development for bumiputras.
In addition, there are no caps on foreign ownership but with a minimum price threshold at RM500,000 per strata unit for foreigners.
It was also granted a duty-free zone where buyers will automatically be eligible for the Malaysian My Second Home (MM2H) programme.
This programme enables foreigners to enjoy a long-stay visa of up to 10 years.
However, as of September 2018, MM2H will no longer be granted automatically.
In addition, the federal government has said a foreigner-only township is no longer allowed.
As it stands, the current entry price for a condominium here averages RM1,400 per sq ft which is way beyond what the locals can afford.
For now, the developer is required to build affordable homes for locals.
Meanwhile, the minimum purchase price for a foreigner has been reverted to RM 1 million per strata unit.
The only thing that remains is its duty-free zone status.
Impact 2: Longer development period for Gerbang Nusajaya and Iskandar Puteri
Aerial view of East Ledang in Iskandar Puteri. Photo: Khalil Adis Consultancy
This follows the review of another major project which is the High Speed Rail project linking Singapore to Kuala Lumpur.
The project was initially cancelled and then postponed.
Full service for the line will commence before 1 January 2031.
The Iskandar Puteri station will be located close to Motorsports City near East Ledang in Gerbang Nusajaya.
In April 2015, Nusajaya’s master developer UEM Sunrise Berhad revealed its comprehensive development plans for Gerbang Nusajaya which will have its own CBD similar to Jurong Lake District.
Spread across 4,551 acres of land, this second phase of Nusajaya’s development will be designed with catalytic industries similar to the various economic drivers in Nusajaya and Medini.
In anticipation for the High Speed Rail terminus in Gerbang Nusajaya, a number of catalytic developments have been planned.
They include Nusajaya Tech Park, a 519-acre integrated eco-friendly tech park and FASTrack Iskandar which is a 300-acre ‘motorsports city’.
Gerbang Nusajaya will have a gross development value of RM42 billion and with an estimated 220,000 population upon its completion
However, now that the project has been suspended, it will take a longer period for Gerbang Nusajaya, Iskandar Puteri and Medini to experience the expected spillover impact from the High Speed Rail project.
Impact 3: Opportunity costs to be passed on to consumers
The project was initially cancelled and then postponed.
Full service for the line will commence before 1 January 2031.
The Iskandar Puteri station will be located close to Motorsports City near East Ledang in Gerbang Nusajaya.
In April 2015, Nusajaya’s master developer UEM Sunrise Berhad revealed its comprehensive development plans for Gerbang Nusajaya which will have its own CBD similar to Jurong Lake District.
Spread across 4,551 acres of land, this second phase of Nusajaya’s development will be designed with catalytic industries similar to the various economic drivers in Nusajaya and Medini.
In anticipation for the High Speed Rail terminus in Gerbang Nusajaya, a number of catalytic developments have been planned.
They include Nusajaya Tech Park, a 519-acre integrated eco-friendly tech park and FASTrack Iskandar which is a 300-acre ‘motorsports city’.
Gerbang Nusajaya will have a gross development value of RM42 billion and with an estimated 220,000 population upon its completion
However, now that the project has been suspended, it will take a longer period for Gerbang Nusajaya, Iskandar Puteri and Medini to experience the expected spillover impact from the High Speed Rail project.
Impact 3: Opportunity costs to be passed on to consumers
Construction of condominium towers in Medini. Photo: Khalil Adis Consultancy
With the delay of the High Speed Rail project, it may even result on the opportunity cost from developers to be passed on to consumers.
As such, new launches will likely be priced higher.
Developers who are banking on the project will be affected.
Impact 4: Correction of prices in the property market
As such, new launches will likely be priced higher.
Developers who are banking on the project will be affected.
Impact 4: Correction of prices in the property market
One unit at Tropez Danga Bay was auctioned off at RM395 per sq ft. Photo: Khalil Adis Consultancy
The postponement of the projects plus investors sentiments on the perceived oversupply situation have impacted the market.
In fact, there is currently a glut in the housing sector in Johor.
According to data from the National Housing and Information Centre (NAPIC), Johor has the second highest number of supply of homes in the first quarter of 2018 - 795,363 units.
In comparison, Kuala Lumpur trails third with 471,475 units.
With the High Speed Rail project as the only property booster at the moment, the property market in Iskandar Malaysia is expected to be muted, moving forward.
This will likely impact the prices for current homes
For example, the median condominium prices in Iskandar Puteri and Medini were RM900 per sq ft and RM700 per sg ft respectively in 2015 since we first started tracking data based on our on the ground survey.
However, the latest data from Brickz showed that the median prices have now corrected to RM515 per sq ft and RM542 per sq ft in Iskandar Puteri and Medini respectively.
Likewise, the median condominium prices in Johor Bahru and Danga Bay were RM1,000 per sq ft and RM1,200 per sq ft respectively in 2016.
However, the latest data from Brickz showed that the median prices have now corrected to RM662 per sq ft and RM863 per sq ft in Johor Bahru and Danga Bay respectively.
Impact 5: Iskandar Halal Park and Pengerang Rapid project still ongoing
In fact, there is currently a glut in the housing sector in Johor.
According to data from the National Housing and Information Centre (NAPIC), Johor has the second highest number of supply of homes in the first quarter of 2018 - 795,363 units.
In comparison, Kuala Lumpur trails third with 471,475 units.
With the High Speed Rail project as the only property booster at the moment, the property market in Iskandar Malaysia is expected to be muted, moving forward.
This will likely impact the prices for current homes
For example, the median condominium prices in Iskandar Puteri and Medini were RM900 per sq ft and RM700 per sg ft respectively in 2015 since we first started tracking data based on our on the ground survey.
However, the latest data from Brickz showed that the median prices have now corrected to RM515 per sq ft and RM542 per sq ft in Iskandar Puteri and Medini respectively.
Likewise, the median condominium prices in Johor Bahru and Danga Bay were RM1,000 per sq ft and RM1,200 per sq ft respectively in 2016.
However, the latest data from Brickz showed that the median prices have now corrected to RM662 per sq ft and RM863 per sq ft in Johor Bahru and Danga Bay respectively.
Impact 5: Iskandar Halal Park and Pengerang Rapid project still ongoing
Bukit Pelali by Astaka Padu is the latest new development that is located in Pengerang. Photo: Khalil Adis Consultancy
Iskandar Halal Park and the Pengerang Rapid project were spared from the policy changes.
Iskandar Halal Park is part of the state government’s effort to promote entrepreneurship in Johor.
Recently, Iskandar Halal Park scored a major coup among when US based-company, Chocolat Moderne from New York, picked Iskandar Halal Park as the manufacturing site to set up its first business in Asia.
Meanwhile, the Pengerang Rapid project, with a gross development value of RM70 billion, was affected by the slowdown in the oil and gass sectors.
While both projects were spared from major reviews, there has also been a price correction for residential homes located in the Eastern Gate which spans from Pasir Gudang to Pengerang.
For example, the median housing prices in Permas Jaya and Pasir Gudang were RM300 per sq ft and RM450 per sq ft respectively in 2016.
However, the latest data from Brickz showed that the median prices have now corrected to RM272 per sq ft and RM329 per sq ft in Permas Jaya and Pasir Gudang respectively.
Only Pengerang recorded a price increase from RM80 per sq ft in 2016 to RM236 per sq ft in 2018.
Iskandar Halal Park is part of the state government’s effort to promote entrepreneurship in Johor.
Recently, Iskandar Halal Park scored a major coup among when US based-company, Chocolat Moderne from New York, picked Iskandar Halal Park as the manufacturing site to set up its first business in Asia.
Meanwhile, the Pengerang Rapid project, with a gross development value of RM70 billion, was affected by the slowdown in the oil and gass sectors.
While both projects were spared from major reviews, there has also been a price correction for residential homes located in the Eastern Gate which spans from Pasir Gudang to Pengerang.
For example, the median housing prices in Permas Jaya and Pasir Gudang were RM300 per sq ft and RM450 per sq ft respectively in 2016.
However, the latest data from Brickz showed that the median prices have now corrected to RM272 per sq ft and RM329 per sq ft in Permas Jaya and Pasir Gudang respectively.
Only Pengerang recorded a price increase from RM80 per sq ft in 2016 to RM236 per sq ft in 2018.
- Published on
Is it on of off? We study each station and list down the good and the bad from the possible impact of its postponement in their surrounding areas.
With recent news of the High Speed cancellation, much remains to be seen if Bandar Malaysia will succeed or not. However, Bandar Malaysia North MRT station’s alignment has already been confirmed. Initially, Bandar Malaysia has been planned with a gross development value (GDV) of RM150 billion with a dedicated commercial district to support new start-ups as well as small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). In addition, Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL) has said 30, 000 units of homes will be delivered housing some 120, 000 residents within Bandar Malaysia. Whether or not this will go ahead, remains unclear. The only glimmer of hope here is the Digital Free Trade Zone by Jack Ma which so far has not been canned by the new government.
#1: Impact:
#1: Impact:
Infographic: Khalil Adis Consultancy
The Bangi-Putrajaya HSR station is located in the south of Klang Valley and within the state of Selangor at Kampung Abu Bakar Bagindar. Putrajaya is the Federal Administrative hub of Malaysia. Major townships include Putrajaya, Cyberjaya and Bangi. There is a proposed connection to the Putrajaya Monorail that will connect this station to Putrajaya Sentral which will serve as an interchange station to the MRT station and the Putrajaya Sentral Express Rail Linl (ERL). The latter links you to KLIA and KLIA2.
#2: Impact:
#2: Impact:
The Seremban HSR station is located within the Malaysia Vision Valley area within the state of Negeri Sembilan. Sited within the Labu and Kirby estates, major townships in the vicinity include Bandar Enstek, Bandar Ainsdale Property and S2 Height. Seremban will be an interchange station to the Seremban Komuter Line and KTM Electric Train Service .
#3: Impact
#3: Impact
The Melaka HSR station is located in Ayer Keroh within the state of Melaka. Melaka is a hub for tourism and medical tourism. Major townships in the vicinity include Taman Tasik Utama, Kampung Baru Ayer Keroh and Taman Melaka Perdana. Many Indonesians and Singaporeans flock to hospitals such as Mahkota Medical Centre for medical treatment.
#4: Impact
#4: Impact
The Muar HSR station is located within the state of Johor at Bandar University Pagoh. Muar is a coastal town by the Straits of Melaka that is a hub for furniture manufacturing. Major townships in the vicinity Pagoh, Parit Jawa and Sungai Balang. The main economic drivers here are those in the education, trading, furniture manufacturing, historical tourism and agrotourism industries.
#5: Impact
#5: Impact
The Batu Pahat HSR station is located within the state of Johor at Pura Kencana, Seri Gading. Batu Pahat is a hub for garment and textile factories. Major townships in the vicinity include include Rengit, Yong Peng and Semerah. The main economic drivers here are those in the the furniture manufacturing, food processing and agrotourism. However, isnce 20011, there has been a notable growth in small and medium industries such as textiles, garments and electronics.
#6: Impact
#6: Impact
The Iskandar Puteri HSR station is located within Gerbang Nusajaya in the state of Johor It is the gateway to Iskandar Malaysia and covers an area of 1,841-hectare. Gerbang Nusajaya features a number of catalytic developments including Nusajaya Tech Park and FASTrack Iskandar. Major townships in the vicinity include Gerbang Nusajaya, Iskandar Puteri and Medini. This will be the final leg of the Malaysian station before it enters Singapore, terminating at Jurong East. While the station in Nusajaya has not yet been announced, government officials have indicated that it will be located close to Motorsports City near East Ledang.
#7: Impact
#7: Impact
The Jurong East HSR station is located within the Jurong Lake District in Singapore. It is the gateway to Singapore and covers an area of 67-hectare. Jurong Lake District is the hub for commerce, retail, healthcare and tourism industries. Major townships in the vicinity include Jurong East, Teban Gardens, Lakeside and Taman Jurong. Jurong East will be an interchange station to the North South MRT Line, East West MRT Line and the proposed Jurong Region MRT Line.
#8: Impact
#8: Impact
Also known as MRT Line 3, this is the final line that will comprise of a “wheel and spoke” system to connect to MRT Line 1 and SSP. Line 3 is expected to be completed in 2025. Collectively, all three lines will be integrated with the current trains systems forming the Klang Valley Integrated Train System. However, this project has been postponed by the new federal government when it took power in May 2018 owing to budget cuts.
#9: Impact
The impact for this postponement will be marginal as this MRT Line will still need to be constructed to connect the SBK Line and SSP Line.
We will most likely see speculators staying away from the market.
This presents good opportunity for genuine homebuyers to start looking in and around the station.
Homes in the secondary market will be the most ideal as they are priced cheaper than new launches.
#9: Impact
The impact for this postponement will be marginal as this MRT Line will still need to be constructed to connect the SBK Line and SSP Line.
We will most likely see speculators staying away from the market.
This presents good opportunity for genuine homebuyers to start looking in and around the station.
Homes in the secondary market will be the most ideal as they are priced cheaper than new launches.