Flying today, see yah

NEW YORK/LONDON (Reuters) -Investors scaled back safe-haven bets on Monday as worries over a wider Middle East conflict eased, boosting world equities and pressuring gold, oil and bond prices.

Ho hup is a syariah-compliant stock. in many ways, syariah investing also inherently encourages investors to practise a long term investment horizon due to its principles.

By avoiding speculative and high-risk ventures, ho hup aligns with the patient capital approach. A deliberate focus on long term sustainability contributes to the resilience of shariah stocks like ho hup in weathering short term market fluctuations hehe

more intense :)

Hamas kills aid workers to manufacture Gaza food crisis, Fatah charges
A Fatah TV anchor reported that Hamas had attacked aid workers, stolen food and water and caused food prices to skyrocket in the Gaza Strip.
By JERUSALEM POST STAFF
APRIL 22, 2024 01:29
Updated: APRIL 22, 2024 01:30

https://www.jpost.com/israel-hamas-war/article-798185

the tip of an iceberg , terbukti hehe

While Kadir has nevertheless highlighted the three Bumiputera tycoons acknowledged by Forbes, there were some cheeky comments to his Facebook post claiming that there could be an even a longer list of Bumiputera billionaire politicians or even their cronies than genuine business tycoons.

This of course cannot be immediately verified but a case in point is that it has been almost nine years and counting yet the inheritance dispute over the late former science, technology and innovation minister Tan Sri Jamaluddin Jarjis’s (JJ) estate valued at an estimate of RM2.1 bil remains unresolved.

political business model kat malaysia selama beberapa dekad, terkaya tentulah politicians and ahli2 keluarga mereka serta kroni2 politik nya hehe

13sen was the lowest price paid for direct biz transactions, time2fly kot? :)

Summary from 27/05/2009 to 14/03/2024
Highest Price 1.6700 First Occurred on 30/04/2014
Lowest Price 0.1300 First Occurred on 14/03/2024
Highest Volume 21.000m First Occurred on 28/06/2011

It seems someone is buying up in stages now. Good news might come hehe

Rising, above 20sen or higher soon hehe

memecut :0

Time Price Chg Vol
16:05:11 0.130 20,000
16:00:03 0.130 50,000
15:37:58 0.130 50,000
15:15:04 0.130 +0.005 100
15:14:13 0.125 134,700
14:56:11 0.125 20,000

terbaik, mau terbang dah :)

Time Price Chg Vol
16:05:11 0.130 20,000
16:00:03 0.130 50,000
15:37:58 0.130 50,000
15:15:04 0.130 +0.005 100

USA bagi duit hehe

The bills provide $60.84 billion to address the conflict in Ukraine, including $23 billion to replenish U.S. weapons, stocks and facilities; $26 billion for Israel, including $9.1 billion for humanitarian needs, and $8.12 billion for the Indo-Pacific, including Taiwan.

USA sokong israel selamanya. Macam VT sokong bjfood hehe

Sektor pembinaan & hartanah kian pulih/bertambah baik,keep je

Tiada retailer mau jual murah, petanda terbaik :)

Broader Asian markets rebounded from last week’s losses, as a lack of immediate escalation between Iran and Israel helped improve sentiment.

Most Asian stocks rose on Monday, rebounding from steep losses in the prior week amid growing bets that a conflict between Iran and Israel will not worsen, although sentiment still remained on edge.

The Real Estate & Housing Developers' Association Malaysia's members continue to be optimistic about the local property market this year, although concerns remain over rising input costs and changing trends.

LONDON: Prices of homes being sold in Britain are close to their record highs after the biggest annual increase in a year, according to an industry survey that suggested the momentum in the housing market of early 2024 extended into April.

Property website Rightmove said on Monday its asking prices for residential properties rose by 1.7% in the four weeks to April 13 when compared with the same period last year. Prices sought by sellers rose by 1.1 per cent in month-on-month terms, slowing from a 1.5 per cent increase in the previous four weeks.

The average new seller asking prices of 372,324 pounds (US$463,320) was only 570 pounds of a record hit in May 2023, Rightmove said.

Other measures of Britain's housing market have also shown a recovery in demand and prices, helped by a fall in borrowing costs which surged in 2022 when former Prime Minister Liz Truss's plans for sweeping tax cuts upset financial markets.

Rightmove said the number of new sellers was 12 per cent higher than a year earlier and the number of sales was up by 13 per cent. Demand was strongest in the high-end segment where asking prices in 2024 so far are up by the most since 2014.

Demand for properties typically sought by first- and second-time buyers - who are typically more mortgage-dependent rose by less, the survey showed.

"Despite the current optimism, these are not the conditions to support substantial price growth," Tim Bannister, Rightmove's director of property science, said.

"Sellers who are keen to secure their sale will still need to price realistically for their local market and avoid being over-ambitious."

(US$1 = 0.8036 pounds)

V shape recovery, stay +

In her latest report, Liu said Malaysia started the first quarter of 2024 with encouraging signs of an economic recovery.

The first-quarter advanced GDP growth accelerated to 3.9% year-on-year, in line with market expectations.

While the recovery is still nascent, Liu said it signalled a positive picture of an economic rebound.

“We expect growth to recover to 4.5% in 2024, on the back of better trade prospects,” she added.

Started flying

https://www.klsescreener.com/v2/news/view/1312401

Property sector , recovery path started, etc

KULAI: Seventy per cent of the property development in Forest City, Iskandar Puteri, has been sold within the past two years and is set to continue to increase over the next three or four years.

State Housing and Local Government Committee chairman Datuk Mohd Jafni Md Shukor said the impact of property sales would further boost the economic sector in the area.

"Many unsold properties over the past four years have been sold within two years.

"For example, in Forest City, which people call a 'ghost town,' many people do not know that 70 per cent of the real estate development there has been sold, as well as in Country Garden and the surrounding areas of Johor Bahru," he told reporters after the Hari Raya Aidilfitri Open House in Hutan Bandar Kulai here today.

He said this when asked to comment on the number of properties sold in Forest City so far.

He said that it is among the positive impacts of the continuous efforts of the state government, which is always committed to addressing the issue of unsold properties.

Meanwhile, Mohd Jafni said the state government's initiative to enhance the efficiency of work processes and governance to reduce red tape or bureaucracy in the government delivery system could be a catalyst for progress in the state.

He said this could be seen through a recent statement by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, who anticipated Johor to become the most developed state in Malaysia following the implementation of several high-impact projects.

"I fully agree with the Prime Minister's statement because Johor Menteri Besar Datuk Onn Hafiz Ghazi has engaged with investors from Singapore and China. All of this is happening," he said.

Last Thursday, Anwar was reported to have said that high-impact projects such as the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone (JS-SEZ) and the Special Financial Zone (SFZ) could drive Johor's economy to surpass other states within the next one to two years.

Israel Sentiasa diberkati tuhan, Dana percuma terbaru untuk menghancurkan penganas2 hamas Dan gengnya hehe

The bills provide $60.84 billion to address the conflict in Ukraine, including $23 billion to replenish U.S. weapons, stocks and facilities; $26 billion for Israel, including $9.1 billion for humanitarian needs, and $8.12 billion for the Indo-Pacific, including Taiwan.

Terbaik bagi sector property& construction, muda-muda-mudi tak mau tinggal bersama ibubapa.

"Living by ourselves makes me and my children happy. It’s hard to have conflicts if we all live separately." Hanh said.

Special Economic Zone with Singapore will transform Johor and unleash its economic potential, says Maybank IB https://www.malaymail.com/news/malaysia/2024/04/19/special-economic-zone-with-singapore-will-transform-johor-and-unleash-its-economic-potential-says-maybank-ib/129563

Avg Vol 217.73 Value100,951 Trans37 Buy Rate67%

started to rebound, etc. accumulate... :)

Time Price Chg Vol
16:29:21 0.130 20,000
15:28:43 0.130 +0.005 15,200
14:30:00 0.125 500

Let’s explore why wars might have a positive impact on Kawan Food’s products, the frozen food manufacturer:

Shift in Consumer Habits:
During wars or crises, consumer habits often change.
The popularity of frozen food tends to increase as people seek convenient, long-lasting options.
Kawan Food’s products, including roti, paratha, and spring rolls, fall into this category.
Robust Demand:
Despite disruptions to production facilities during the Covid-19 pandemic, Kawan Food experienced strong demand.
Orders were not canceled, and the company even increased its market share in the domestic market.
Before the pandemic, Kawan Food held about 60% of the domestic market share.
Backlog of Orders:
Temporary closures and workforce restrictions led to a backlog of orders from both local and overseas customers.
Kawan Food’s utilization rate is expected to rise as it resumes production at full capacity.
New Products and Export Markets:
Kawan Food’s growth prospects lie in new products and export markets.
South America, its newest overseas market, is expected to contribute positively.
The company’s ability to secure new workers and increase headcount will boost production.
Embracing Industry Revolution 4.0:
Kawan Food is adopting digitization and efficiency-enhancing projects.
These initiatives reduce wastage, improve production efficiency, and lessen reliance on manpower.
In summary, wars indirectly drive demand for Kawan Food’s frozen products due to changing consumer habits, leading to a positive outlook for the company. 🌟🍽️🚀

China conglomerate might acquire Ho Hup Construction Company:

Strategic Expansion:
The China conglomerate seeks to expand its footprint in the construction industry.
Acquiring Ho Hup provides access to the Malaysian market and established projects.
Affordability and Growth:
Ho Hup’s affordable living costs and strong economy appeal to investors.
The acquisition aligns with the conglomerate’s growth strategy.
Golden Visa Opportunity:
Malaysia’s MM2H program offers golden visas to property buyers.
Owning Ho Hup properties grants access to this program.
In summary, the China conglomerate aims to grow its construction portfolio by acquiring Ho Hup, leveraging Malaysia’s economic advantages and MM2H program. 🏗️🌏🇨🇳🇲🇾

same trend, ready to fly :)

2024-03-20 0.175 0.155 0.180 0.155 8,634,900
2024-03-19 0.150 0.140 0.150 0.130 9,045,900
2024-03-18 0.135 0.125 0.135 0.120 6,905,900
2024-03-15 0.125 0.155 0.155 0.125 6,236,600
2024-03-14 0.155 0.155 0.160 0.155 511,700

Let’s unravel the enchanting tale of why Iranians flock to the Malaysian property market like curious travelers drawn to hidden treasure chests:

🌟 The Persian Carpet Chronicles: A Journey to Malaysia 🌟

Once upon a time, in the bustling bazaars of Tehran, whispers of a faraway land reached the ears of Iranian dreamers. They spoke of a place where durians danced with monsoons, and the sun dipped into the sea like a golden coin. That place was none other than Malaysia.

🏠 The House of Spice and Harmony 🏠

Affordable Alchemy:
Iranians marveled at Malaysia’s affordable living costs. The currency, like a humble genie, stretched their dirhams and rials into magical proportions.
“Buy a home,” the wise elders said, “and watch your wealth multiply like jasmine vines.”
Cultural Kaleidoscope:
Malaysia’s diverse culture beckoned like a siren’s song. Iranians reveled in the fusion of Malay batik, Persian carpets, and Chinese lanterns.
“Here,” they whispered, “your heart can dance to a thousand rhythms.”
Economic Alchemy:
The strong economy shimmered like a desert mirage. Iranians saw skyscrapers sprouting like date palms, and their hearts quickened.
“Invest,” the merchants advised, “and watch your dirhams dance the tango with ringgits.”
Political Serenity:
Malaysia’s political stability was a soothing balm. Iranians sought refuge from the tempests of their homeland.
“Here,” they sighed, “our dreams can bloom like hibiscus flowers.”
The MM2H Spell:
The Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H) program cast its enchantment. Iranians held golden visas like ancient scrolls.
“Stay awhile,” the MM2H wizards intoned, “and weave your tales into our tropical tapestries.”
🔮 The Grand Prediction 🔮

And so, Iranians bought homes in Malaysia—condos with durian-themed balconies, villas by moonlit beaches, and apartments overlooking rainforests. Their laughter echoed through the corridors, blending with the call to prayer from distant mosques.

The Property Pixies danced, whispering secrets of rental yields and capital gains. The Property Portal glimmered, connecting Tehran to Kuala Lumpur in a cosmic embrace.

And as the sun dipped into the Strait of Malacca, Iranians raised their glasses of teh tarik, toasting to a new chapter—a home where spices mingled, cultures harmonized, and dreams took root.

For in Malaysia, they found not just properties, but a place where hearts could wander and souls could soar. 🌏🇮🇷🇲🇾

Remember, dear reader, this tale is spun from stardust and imagination. But the truth remains: Iranians find solace and adventure in the Malaysian property market, where every brick whispers, “Welcome home.” 🏡✨

Let’s embark on a whimsical journey through the Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H) program and its magical impact on property sales in this tropical wonderland:

🌴 The Enchanted MM2H Portal: Where Dreams Take Root 🌴

Once upon a time, nestled amidst lush rainforests and bustling cities, there existed a mystical gateway known as the MM2H Portal. Brave souls from distant lands sought passage through its shimmering visa pages, seeking refuge and adventure in the land of durians and monsoons.

🏡 The Property Pixies Awaken 🏡

As the first MM2H visa was stamped, a curious thing happened: Property Pixies emerged from the dew-kissed grass. These mischievous beings flitted about, whispering secrets to potential buyers:

Pixie of Price Harmony:
“Fear not, dear wanderer! MM2H visa holders have their own minimum purchase price. No wild bidding wars here!”
And so, property prices danced in harmony, neither soaring too high nor plummeting into the abyss.
Pixie of Expat Elegance:
“Behold! MM2H visa holders seek abodes by the sea, near bustling markets, or atop misty hills.”
Developers, inspired by these whimsical preferences, crafted homes with secret spice gardens and moonlit balconies.
Pixie of Cultural Crossover:
“Listen closely! MM2Hers crave fusion—Malay batik meets Persian carpets, Chinese lanterns embrace Iranian calligraphy.”
Thus, homes bloomed with vibrant tapestries and fragrant spices, a symphony of cultures.
🌟 The MM2H Effect Unfolds 🌟

The Rainbow Bridge:
The MM2H Bridge connected Kuala Lumpur to the world. As visa holders strolled across, they glimpsed rainbows and whispered, “Home.”
The Durian Dividend:
MM2Hers reveled in durian feasts, their laughter echoing through orchards. Developers, sensing opportunity, built condos with durian-themed balconies.
The Monsoon Mirage:
MM2Hers danced in monsoon rains, their laughter mingling with thunder. Property agents, inspired, marketed homes as “Rain Symphony Residences.”
The Sunset Serenade:
MM2Hers gathered on Penang’s shores, sipping teh tarik as the sun dipped. Condos sprouted like palm trees, each balcony a stage for sunset sonatas.
🔮 The Grand Prediction 🔮

And so, the Property Pixies foretold: “MM2H visa holders shall weave their dreams into the fabric of Malaysia. Property sales shall flourish, and homes shall echo with laughter, love, and the occasional durian scent.”

And thus, dear reader, the MM2H program cast its enchantment upon the Malaysian property market, forever intertwining the destinies of expats and cozy bungalows. 🏠✨

Remember, this tale is but a whimsical weave of imagination. In reality, the MM2H program does indeed influence property sales, but without the pixies and durian-themed balconies. 😉🌟🇲🇾

good to boost property sale too hehe

The Israel-Iran conflict has influenced the migration of Iranians to Malaysia for several reasons:

Safety and Stability:
Malaysia is considered a safe haven for Iranians seeking refuge from regional tensions.
The country’s political stability and lack of direct involvement in the conflict make it an attractive destination.
Ease of Migration:
Malaysia offers visa-free entry for Iranian nationals, simplifying the migration process.
Iranians can easily enter the country for tourism, study, or business purposes.
Educational Opportunities:
Many Iranian students choose Malaysia for higher education.
The country hosts several reputable universities with English-medium programs.
Affordable Living Costs:
Malaysia provides a relatively affordable cost of living compared to Western countries.
Iranians find it economically viable for long-term settlement.
Cultural and Religious Ties:
Malaysia’s multicultural environment resonates with Iranians.
Both nations share a Muslim-majority population, fostering cultural connections.
Business and Trade:
Iranians engage in business ventures in Malaysia due to its strategic location in Southeast Asia.
The country serves as a gateway to regional markets.
Diplomatic Relations:
Malaysia maintains diplomatic relations with both Iran and Israel.
Iranians perceive Malaysia as a neutral ground for dialogue and cooperation.
In summary, the Israel-Iran conflict has prompted Iranians to seek safety, education, and economic opportunities in Malaysia, leading to an increasing migration trend. 🌏🇮🇷🇲🇾

The Iranian diaspora in Malaysia is incredibly diverse, comprising various groups such as supporters of the Green Movement, students, religious practitioners, and business owners. Let’s explore the reasons why more and more Iranians choose to migrate to Malaysia:

Post-Islamic Revolution Phenomenon:
The Iranian diaspora in Malaysia emerged after the contested 2009 presidential election.
The regime’s crackdown on activists and mass protests led many Iranians to seek refuge abroad.
Malaysia, with no visa requirements for Iranian nationals and a comparable cost of living, became an immediate and affordable refuge.
Diverse Community:
The community includes not only political dissidents but also:
Students: Funded either privately or by the Islamic Republic.
Business Owners: Especially those in the travel and financial services sectors.
Journalists, Artists, and Environmentalists.
Vulnerable Position:
Unlike their counterparts in North America and Europe, Iranian migrants in Malaysia cannot acquire citizenship except through significant investments or marriage to a local.
If unable to secure residency or citizenship, they face a dilemma:
Return to Iran: Often reducing or hiding their activism.
Migrate to a Third Country: A limited option.
Limited Political Activism:
Iranian political activism in Malaysia tends to focus on reformist agendas rather than calls for regime change.
The presence of Iran’s security apparatus in Malaysia adds to the vulnerability of dissident migrants.
Friendly Relations and Surveillance:
Due to friendly relations between Iran and Malaysia, the Islamic Republic extends its intelligence presence into the country.
Iranians in Malaysia often feel under surveillance, affecting their activism and behavior.
In summary, Iranians migrate to Malaysia seeking safety, affordability, and opportunities, but their vulnerable status and limited political activism shape their experiences in this diverse diaspora community. 🌏🇮🇷🇲🇾

The High-Speed Rail (HSR) project connecting Malaysia and Singapore has been a topic of interest for years. Let’s explore the reasons why it is very likely to be built:

Economic Integration:
The HSR would significantly enhance economic integration between the two countries.
It facilitates seamless travel, boosts tourism, and encourages cross-border business activities.
The potential for increased trade and investment makes it an attractive proposition.
Reduced Travel Time:
The HSR promises to cut down the journey time between Kuala Lumpur and Singapore to only 90 minutes.
Compared to the current four-hour road journey, this substantial reduction in travel time is a game-changer.
Previous Commitments:
Although the project faced delays and postponements, both Malaysia and Singapore have previously committed to the HSR.
The recent revival of the project indicates a renewed interest and determination to see it through1.
Infrastructure Development:
The HSR serves as a catalyst for infrastructure development along its route.
New stations, connectivity, and urban development are expected to emerge, benefiting both countries.
Tourism and Connectivity:
The HSR would encourage more tourists to explore both Malaysia and Singapore.
It opens up opportunities for joint tourism promotions and cross-border experiences.
Strategic Importance:
The HSR strengthens the strategic position of both nations in the region.
It enhances connectivity within Southeast Asia and positions them as hubs for international travel.
Environmental Considerations:
The HSR promotes sustainable transportation by reducing reliance on road travel and lowering carbon emissions.
In summary, the HSR project holds immense potential for economic, social, and environmental benefits. While challenges exist, the shared vision and commitment make it likely that the HSR will become a reality. 🚄🌏

Why Choose Malaysia for Second Residency?:
Diverse Culture: Malaysia’s blend of Asian, British colonial, Indian, and Chinese influences makes it an interesting place to live.
Language Advantage: English is widely spoken, facilitating communication and business.
Cost of Living: Kuala Lumpur offers a modern lifestyle without the high price tag.
Strategic Location: Southeast Asia’s hub with easy access to major Asian cities.
Champagne Lifestyle on a Beer Budget: Enjoy quality living without breaking the bank.

more n more middle easterners would come under mm2h, good for property players

Muhammad also made some small sacrifices. A Tim Hortons addict, he has had to find a substitute for his regular cup of Timmy's: Tealive, a local bubble tea chain.

"It didn't take very long, but I have a new substitute addiction," he said.

The Salehs said they have friends who have already moved to the UAE, while others are in the process of moving elsewhere from Canada.

When asked how long they see themselves living in Malaysia, Sana said, "Hopefully, for the rest of our lives! We would love to see our kids be raised here, get married here, and have kids here."

Sabah MM2H, Peninsula MM2H, flooded with middle easterners helping to sell properties promptly, etc. rebounded to 13sen with a buy rate 66%, on the way up hehe

https://www.nst.com.my/business/corporate/2024/04/1039838/rm70bil-high-speed-bullet-train-project

RELATED ARTICLES
CORPORATE Feb 13, 2024 @ 8:52am
HSR will give economy boost
ECONOMY Jan 29, 2024 @ 8:12am
HSR will boost real estate sector
CORPORATE Jan 14, 2024 @ 10:16am
Over five groups to present their concept proposals for KL-S'pore bullet train on Monday
NATION Jan 13, 2024 @ 1:09pm
Loke: KL-Singapore high-speed rail project still on track despite Japanese companies' opt-out

Boosting property sale of ho hup :)

The Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H) program is a popular choice for many, including Iranians, due to several compelling reasons:

1. **Long-term Residency**: MM2H offers a renewable 10-year visa, providing a stable option for long-term residence¹.

2. **Investment Opportunities**: Participants are allowed to invest in or start a business, subject to domestic regulations².

3. **Quality of Life**: Malaysia is known for its high standard of living, modern infrastructure, and comprehensive services¹³.

4. **Cultural Diversity**: The country's multicultural environment is welcoming to people from various backgrounds¹⁴.

5. **Cost of Living**: Malaysia offers a relatively low cost of living, which is attractive to many expatriates¹².

6. **English Proficiency**: English is widely spoken, making communication and business easier for foreigners¹².

7. **Strategic Location**: Malaysia's location in Southeast Asia makes it a hub for travel within the region¹².

8. **Property Ownership**: MM2H participants are permitted to purchase property in Malaysia¹³.

9. **Healthcare**: The country has quality healthcare facilities, which is a significant consideration for many immigrants¹⁴.

10. **Safety and Political Stability**: Malaysia is considered politically stable and safe, which is appealing to those looking for a secure environment¹⁴.

For Iranians specifically, the MM2H program offers an opportunity to live in a country that provides a sense of community and familiarity. There is a significant Iranian diaspora in Malaysia, which includes students, business owners, and professionals⁸. This community can offer support and a sense of belonging to new arrivals.

Additionally, Malaysia's relatively affordable cost of living compared to other countries, combined with the absence of visa requirements for Iranian nationals, has made it an accessible and attractive destination⁸. The diverse and vibrant Iranian community in Malaysia includes a wide range of individuals, from students to entrepreneurs, adding to the appeal for new migrants seeking a supportive environment[^10^].

More Iranian r expected to join mm2h & sapu properties in Malaysia

How many Iranians are in Malaysia?
The current number of Iranians in Malaysia is estimated to be roughly around 200,000, which is the highest in any East Asian country.
www.researchgate.net › 3090...
The Iranian diaspora in Malaysia: a socio-economic and political analysis

More Iranian r expected to join mm2h & sapu properties in Malaysia

How many Iranians are in Malaysia?
The current number of Iranians in Malaysia is estimated to be roughly around 200,000, which is the highest in any East Asian country.
https://www.researchgate.net › 3090...
The Iranian diaspora in Malaysia: a socio-economic and political analysis

More middle easterners come to Malaysia for mm2h and buy properties :)

OIL prices jumped $3 a barrel on Friday in reaction to reports that Israeli missiles had struck a site in Iran, sparking concerns that Middle East oil supply could be disrupted.

https://www.klsescreener.com/v2/news/view/1311441

nasi sudah menjadi bubur, grab some, macam ytl, tiba2 up several times :)

Good4ho hup too... Hohup juga dapat kontrak ecrl, dll.

KUALA LUMPUR: The Kuala Lumpur-Singapore high-speed rail (KL-SG HSR) project might tally up to about RM70 billion, a notable decrease of around 30 to 35 percent from the previously reported RM110 billion, according to market insiders.

"No definitive cost estimate has ever been provided for the HSR project. The RM70 billion figure is a projection based on factors such as the length and alignment of the railway line, as well as the number of trains and stations required," said an insider.

MyHSR Corporation, the government-owned entity overseeing the HSR's development, received concept proposals from seven local and international consortia by the January 15, 2024, deadline. The RFI was held in order for the Malaysian government to assess the private sector's ability to fully finance the project without state funds or guarantees.

Despite efforts to assess the private sector's capability to finance the project independently, there seem to be three shortlisted consortiums, and they are seeking some form of government financial support.

The three shortlisted consortiums are YTL Construction Sdn Bhd-SIPP Rail Sdn Bhd, Malaysian Resources Corp Bhd-IJM Construction Sdn Bhd-Berjaya Rail Sdn Bhd-Keretapi Tanah Melayu Bhd (MRCB-IJM-BRail-KTMB), and a Chinese consortium led by state-owned China Railway Construction.

The MRCB-IJM-BRail-KTMB consortium has reportedly requested in its proposal that the government compensate it if the number of passengers falls below a minimum number.

The YTL-led group has also requested some form of government financial support in its bid to manage the mounting costs of building the line.

"This contradicts the government's stance that it will not fund the 350-km-long line. Of the shortlisted consortia, only the China Railway-led consortium possesses robust finances to undertake the project via private funding," said the insider.

Dr. Yeah Kim Leng, a Professor of Economics at Sunway University Business School, indicated that the mega rail project has edged closer to fruition with MyHSR shortlisting three consortiums.

However, he cautioned that numerous obstacles must be overcome before the project commences, including clarifying funding sources, assessing the project's feasibility, and determining the extent of government support.

Private financing hinges on commercial viability, particularly concerning financing, given the maturity of high-speed rail technology in China, Japan, and Europe, Yeah said.

Yeah emphasised that if economic viability and financing feasibility challenges are resolved, the mega project could significantly benefit the Malaysian economy by the end of the decade.

Transport Minister Anthony Loke Siew Fook said early this month that the concession method used for private companies to build highways could be emulated for the HSR.

He said the HSR remained an integral project that could be an economic changer for the country.

"I don't see why we must say no, but it should not be a government-led project. Instead, the private sector can contribute capital and carry on the project," he said during the Keluar Sekejap podcast with Khairy Jamaluddin and Shahril Hamdan on April 5.

The 330-350 km-long project, first mooted over 20 years ago by YTL Group, resulted in a legally binding agreement signed in December 2016, with the aim of having the line operational by 2026.

However, it was put on the back burner following several delays at Malaysia's request and the eventual lapsing of an agreement in December 2020.

Malaysia paid more than S$102 million in compensation to Singapore for the project's termination.

Talk of reviving the project intensified following the general elections in 2022 and Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim's visit to Singapore early in the new year, where he met with Singaporean leaders.

KGV International Property Consultants executive director Sr. Samuel Tan said that from the surface, it appears that only the Chinese consortium possesses the financial capacity to undertake such a massive project, estimated at RM70 billion or more.

"Whatever the case, this KL-SG HSR project, when operational, will transform the entire transportation landscape in Malaysia. The country will be part of the big jigsaw within the Pan Asian Railway Network, possibly starting from Singapore, Malaysia, to Indo-China, then to China, and finally to Europe.

"With that in place, more investors will be keen to invest here, as travelling by rail is seamless and yet an experience to be enjoyed," he said.

Mar 15 & 18, 12.5sen & 13.5sen, fly to 15sen on Mar 19. Wait n see whether the same trend yah ;) today

Property prices in Malaysia are indeed expected to rise in 2024. Here are some key insights and factors contributing to this trend:

- **Construction Costs**: Increasing construction costs are a significant factor driving up property prices in the first half of 2024³.

- **Economic Growth**: The Malaysian economy is showing signs of improvement, with GDP growth rates forecasted to be between **4% – 5%** this year, as projected by various financial institutions².

- **Market Recovery**: The property market is continuing its recovery from the pandemic, with transaction volumes and values showing stability and growth².

- **Interest Rates**: While the Overnight Policy Rate (OPR) hikes have paused, interest rates remain elevated, which may influence buyer decisions and contribute to higher property prices¹.

- **Buyer Sentiment**: There is cautious optimism among sellers regarding the market’s future trajectory, despite a quarter-on-quarter decline in the Sale Demand Index¹.

- **Rental Market**: Higher asking prices have redirected buyer interest toward the rental market, sustaining robust demand throughout 2023. This trend is expected to persist in the near term¹.

- **Government Support**: The government has promised support for property seekers, which could influence the market positively¹.

These factors suggest that the property market in Malaysia is on an upward trajectory, with prices expected to continue rising throughout the year. Investors and potential buyers should consider these trends and forecasts when making decisions in the property market.

The rise in property prices in Bukit Jalil can be attributed to several factors:

- **Strategic Location**: Bukit Jalil is situated approximately 20km south of Kuala Lumpur city centre, making it a desirable location for both residential and commercial purposes¹.

- **Development History**: Originally a rubber plantation estate, the area was developed for the 1998 Commonwealth Games, which included the construction of the National Sports Complex. This initial development laid the groundwork for future growth¹.

- **Accessibility**: The area is well-connected by major highways and public transportation, including four Light Rail Transit (LRT) stations, enhancing its appeal to residents and businesses¹.

- **Amenities**: Bukit Jalil boasts a variety of amenities, including shopping centers like Mid Valley Megamall and sports facilities, which add to the quality of life in the area¹.

- **Commercial Activity**: With developments such as Bukit Jalil City and Pavilion Bukit Jalil, there is an anticipation of a self-sustaining township, which increases commercial activity and, consequently, property demand¹.

- **Tech Hub**: The presence of Technology Park Malaysia and various tech companies in Bukit Jalil attracts professionals and contributes to the demand for housing in the area¹.

- **Freehold Land Status**: Properties in Bukit Jalil often come with freehold land status and a Kuala Lumpur address, which is highly attractive to buyers¹.

These factors combined have led to a heightened competition for land and an increase in property prices in Bukit Jalil. Prospective buyers are willing to pay premium prices for serviced apartments, flats, or condominiums, reflecting the area's growing popularity among residents and businesses.

V-V-shape rebound? Wait n see