Hardware store

One 2 Eat cafe at Austin Heights area. Nice and cheap

By the way guys, saw a couple of shops at the Nusa Idaman area, near to the bridge which will bring one over to the new hospital.
They sell bricks as well as roof tiles and even cement on top of normal DIY stuff. Coincidentally, one of the shops there is also called DIY.

There is a new DIY store, Mr DIY based on the 2nd floor just outside Tesco which is a nice place to buy lots of stuff you otherwise have trouble finding in Johore. :)

There are also lots in the Bukit Indah area, notably just outside HH where there are lots of shops.
Even saw one HQ motor repair shop open past 1am on Saturday night.

Investing in Nusajaya

I actually do think this is a good place to invest which was why i didn't stretch and got a bungalow but instead spread over smaller units that i would buy slowly. I would still tell people its a good place to stay and then as a secondary purpose to invest as there are still risks here.

What i can see and accept may be seen or viewed as too risky by some. The way i see it (IMHO), we are just past the base camp right now.

If i had more spare cash now, i would still buy albeit selectively.

It doesn't pay to be kind at times

I tend to have IT related jobs (higher tier) and recently have some marketing related ones, the only problem is when you call people, folks may think you are joking, etc. They view you with suspicion and even asked me how come i am not taking the role for myself as its a 6000 SGD job(to them its a lot). Its a bit frustrating sometimes when you want to help and people doubt you EVERY STEP of the way. Once they get that job though, suddenly disappear as if worried you want money or something.

Make or break

The fastest way to make (and lose) money for me is still in stocks, i have made and lost the
equivalent of one of my terraces.

It was a sobering moment to be sitting there with more than 150k USD in losses in the span
of one long long night. Worse still back then, was only 29 and the reality of it sunk in. I sucked
in my chest and went on my business as though nothing had happened. Then those around me
especially my parents and siblings couldn't believe it when i told them i lost money.

My siblings were shocked i could take it so well but i told them, whats the point of crying over spilt
milk? I should just concentrate and focus on whats more important and i was pretty sure i would recover
it.

Slowly and surely, one year later, 50% losses recovered. Sold off other stuff and decided to go into
Semi-D here with some stocks left. 6 months, recovered more from stocks, bought cluster. Recovered fully
from stocks and made some extra.

Bought 1 more terrace. Made money from stocks, bought 1 more with sister sharing.

The key thing is never to give up, lots of people will be dead losers if they just gave up after the first multiple sequence of failures they encounter in life.
Life is always about a cycle, every dog has its day.

No matter how good your current run, it will end one day, never bully people when you are on the top, you will never know some day.
The cycle continues

Property prices to go up

http://www.btimes.com.my/Current_News/BTIMES/articles/uem27/Article/#ixzz1TMzA7DAE


KUALA LUMPUR: Property prices in Nusajaya in Iskandar Malaysia, Johor, are expected to rise further as UEM Land Holdings Bhd and Iskandar Investment Bhd (IIB) plan to transform the area into a "smart+connected" community.

In the last five years, property prices had increased by 10 to 30 per cent in East Ledang, Nusa Idaman and Horizon Hills in Nusajaya, said UEM general manager for strategic marketing, Zamri Ibrahim.

He said houses sold at RM300,000-plus in Nusa Idaman in 2008 are now selling at more than RM400,000 each. Those launched in East Ledang around the same year have seen price increases of RM500,000 to above RM600,000.

"Turning Nusajaya into a smart city will enhance the offerings in the market which would see the value of the properties appreciating," Zamri said.

UEM owns 4,208ha of land in Nusajaya, a key component of Iskandar Malaysia. It is responsible for the development of five catalyst projects - Kota Iskandar (Johor state new administrative centre), the Southern Industrial and Logis-tics Clusters, the Puteri Harbour waterfront development, Afiat Healthpark and Nusajaya residences.


UEM and IIB yesterday signed a collaboration agreement with network system provider Cisco to develop an information and communications technology (ICT) and services smart city masterplan for Nusajaya.

Better to be fashionably late than never.

Regardless of whether someone starts early or starts late, as long as one arrives, thats all that matters.

Like many, i was a laggard of sorts as it took a lot of convincing for me to come but come i did. :)

Its better to arrive late or for some fashionably late than not at all. I would rather be a 80 year old man
living here now with options than to be in 20s-30s and stuck somewhere or worse neither here nor there.

There are definitely bros who did well even in their 20s or earlier(respect) but also seniors who arrived after 50.

Regardless who you are, it doesn't even matter if your next plans are for Malaysia, Thailand or AU/NZ.
The point is to have a plan rather than depend on the [B]goodwill[/B] of our government.

I remembered an old story about a fish and water merchant, the water merchant basically told the fish to wait until he comes back, fully laden with water from the stream/capital. By the time you come back, said the poor fish, i would have been a dried up skeleton in the dust.

Many of us, no matter how comfortable we are right now, are basically like the fish, flopping around in the dust. We need to do something before we get dried up (read: old) and gets tossed into the dirt like yesterdays newspaper, might be still relevant but no longer fresh.

A word of caution when doing business/starting one in Johore

Again, to all bros here. Do be wary of any sudden or offers of any business opportunities. Do your due dilligence first and check out the local rules and laws.

Best to get a lawyer and never use the same lawyer to represent both sides when buying or selling property, etc. Always use a different lawyer, it costs more but protects your interests better.

There may be different agendas here when you get contacted, it may not be bad and could prove to be a lucrative business but again, due dilligence please. I really don't want to see people to be cheated here.

On the flip side of the coin, always check on the background any potential business partners who are keen to invest as well. Remember, It takes two to clap.

I would rather be prudent and cautious in the start of any business transaction than the other alternative

Some names and places of establishment to share as requested.

Please note, no need to use any name, just say you found their name by chance:

For gardening works at HH

Best Cut Garden Grooming - Ben - +6012 6388 726

For mechanic

(Super reliable, your mileage may vary. They can advise where to upgrade parts, etc)

Overseas Tyre and Services - Meng - +6012 7709242

No. 2, Jalan Indah 16/11 Taman Bukit Indah, 81200 Johor Bahru, Johor

(Note to bros: Please be nice if you are using them, don't insult them with weird comments like, will you steal my parts, is it ok to leave my car here, will i return back to half a car. They have a business to run so please leave our Singaporean kiasu attitude at the customs, if you don't trust them, just don't use them, period)

For houses:

Nusa Duta - Marcus Soh -

Nusa Sentral - Alvin Ong - +6019 7507698

Taman Laguna - Chan Phooi Wai

For massage (clean type)

Eminent Reflexology - +607 556 8133

No.1 Jalan Bestari 12/2 Taman Nusa Bestari Skudai 81300 Johor

For aircon

Ban Huat Air Cond & Engineering (Look for Mr Loh - +607237 8303

No. 20 Jalan Indah 1, Taman Bukit Indah, 81200 Johor Bahru, Johor

For cars (Perodua)

Perodua Sales

Alan Tee - +6012 762 7625

For electronics

Michael Lim - +6012 772 9499

Seng Electric Sales & Service

1 & 3 Jalan Mutiara Emas 10/19 Taman Mount Austin 81100 Johor Bahru, Johor

There is also a good one next to the Giant (ground floor) at Taman Perling (Perling Mall)

For Tim Sum and Teochew food:

Restoran Chaw Yuan

Irene Chua - +6012 779 9179

No. 1 Jalan Jati 2, Taman Nusa Bestari Jaya, 81300 Skudai, +607 512 5898

There is also a nice one in Perling as well as one near Austin Heights, very near to the Austin Paradise hotel as well as the Cherie Hearts preschool

For Taiwan porridge (free flow of porridge) Opens until midnight

Sutera Mall, opposite the Kingston hotel. Ask for their Tang dynasty bacon and their ngo hiang and vegetables with salted fish. Even their chype poh omelette is nice

For TCM:

Beijing TCM (near to EON bank at the Bukit Indah area)

Expensive though

Xiang Xin Zhong Yi (Xiang Xin TCM Medical)

78, Jalan Indah 1 Taman Bukit Indah, 81200 Skudai

Korean doctors who speak in mandarin - Yeon-Kwang Kim +607 235 7827

For Locksmith

Peter Tan

+010 7607 999

39, Jalan Austin Height 3

81100 Taman Mount Austin

For alarm and camera system:

Alvin Lui - +016 778 1396 (My folks swear by him, good guy, super reliable and not prone to overcharge, likes fishing too, knows good fishing spots)

23A, Jalan Hang Tuah, 28 Taman Skudai Baru, 81300, +607 556 2595

He can also add batteries (about 80-120 RM) to your existing autogate system

For chicken rice and roast meat (pork)

Lee Ping Piow – Near the Cherie Hearts at Bukit Indah, same row but different block(located right at corner, only coffeeshop selling only chicken rice.

Restoran Piow Kee

No. 23 Jalan Indah 10/1 Taman Bukit Indah, 81200

Very very nice!!!

For blinds, bamboo type:

Bamboo Chong @ Perniagaan Lee Teck Mee

No. 155, Ban Foo N/V 81800 Ulu Tiram, Johor Bahru

Zhong Kai Wen - +6016 7935 600

For Money Changer

Superlink Money Changer Sdn Bhd

62, Jalan Indah 1 Taman Bukit Indah

81200

+607 238 7288

For canvas awning, retractable and fixed types

Wong peng Kee
+6012 752 4470

For 2nd hand cars

Tey Chee Wee (he likes people to call him Tey) - +6012 738 2676

60 Jalan Putra 1, Taman Tan Sri Yakob

81300 Skudai

+6012 712 5662

3 Theme parks in Nusajaya now

3 Theme Parks are located within this zone including, Legoland Malaysia, Hello Kitty Theme Park and Theme Attractions Resorts

Source:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nusajaya


Popular kiddie characters Barney, Thomas and Friends, Bob the Builder and Hello Kitty will be among the attractions at the RM350 million, four-storey indoor theme park slated to be opened to the public at the end of 2012.

http://www.iskandarmalaysia.com.my/news/091109/rm350m-theme-park-for-nusajaya

More. :)
http://nusajayacity.com/enewsletter/october/page03.html

Prices and thoughts back in 2009

Wow, got quite a few PMs lately, i am more than happy to help enquiries but even though this is free work, i am glad to help as i feel its a community service towards fellow countrymen.

I am writing now in my new home(i just moved in like some of my neighbours before X'mas!

This place is starting to have a little too many SG cars and SG folks are filling up the area. As i still have to do my work to keep my day job, i would like to state some facts here(bear with me, its a little long) to share so that folks may be able to get the information they need without checking with me repeatedly:

1. Electrical bills are nominally free if you use below RM 15 per month. Expect you will be paying very little as compared to the normal utilities bills in Singapore. Water bills are like $4-10 RM a month and you can even owe up to a few months(6 months as i have been told as long as it does not exceed $100)

2. Air here is fresh and yes the water here you can boil and drink although i would recommend getting some Osim or WaterPik or local filters.

3. Lights here are damn cheap, we got some nice crystal lights for 950 ringgit and some lights with 3 energy saving bulbs for 99 ringgit.

4. Whole house done up and i mean really nicely done up at 80k ringgit, including aircon (below 8k for 6 units with 1 of them having 2HP and 1 is 1.5HP) and including:
a. Kitchen with aluminium shelf as well as kitchen hobs and 2 Stainless Steel sinks
b. Carpentery work
c. Awning
d. Window and door grille
e. Carpet grass
f. Autogate
g. Kdk ceiling fans throughout and exhaust fans for kitchen and ALL toilets
h. Water heater for all 5 toilets
i. Wall fans
j. Lights for all areas and even on 2nd floor
k. Back yard door(made a gate through what used to be a fence)
l. Front balcony with awning
m. Pavilion for terraced area with ceiling fan and light
n. Bedroom sets with mattresses, pillows and bolsters
o. Lights and standing lights for all rooms
p. Additional alumimium covering for kitchen area

5. Get a Malaysian registered car if you can(can get up to 70% loan from banks). Only caveat here is you can't drive to Singapore BUT for people who have relatives here, they could probably drive you in(MY cars entitled to 10 free trips in)

6. Good movie cinema is at Tebrau City, $12 ringgit. Tebrau City has Timberland, etc stores.

7. Petrol full tank usually about 90 ringgit, else normal top up is about 40 plus
Most do not really check to see if you only pump 20 litres thing now or even if they do, just go to another petrol station to top up or just pay the "piper" Avoid the toilets at the petrol kiosks at night if you can or go with a group.

8. Developers here are starting to be more uppity now with withdrawal of special priviledges such as free club membership in some instances as well as higher up front downpayment for buyers of their properties. Banks are also upping interests rates, infact most banks has upped them already. BLR is 5.55% and some banks will give 1.8% off. Popular banks are(ranked in no particular order):

Eon Bank
Public Bank
Alliance Bank

9. Avoid housing projects in Impian Emas, buying shops in Johor Jaya and Sentosa(in Malaysia, not to be confused with the Sentosa in SG) Goods in Johor Jaya also tend to be a bit expensive.

General pricing(your mileage may vary):

Aircon - Panasonic - Below 1,100 ringgit inclusive of installation
Kitchen sink - Below 800 ringgit
Carpet grass - 3 ringgit psf
Kitchen with wall and aluminum cabinet hob, etc - 7k ringgit
Backyard door - 1k ringgit
Pavilion - 7k ringgit
Ceiling fans with remote - KDK at 220 ringgit
Large attenna to watch SG tv, etc - 480 ringgit
Utilities - Super duper neglible as i found out today as compared to SG.
Hell, i pay less than what the town council in SG charges me monthly.

You can eat out with a family of 6 persons for as little as $27 ringgit inclusive of drinks(coffee shops). People here watch SG tv and SG radio all the time so you be here but still be in touch with SG.

Lots of SG shops in the area, there is a new furniture shop in the new Giant near Bukit Indah, just checked out today, pricing is good(will be getting furniture for my 3rd home there) There are also lots of stores at Nusa Bestari area, bargain if possible.

Assume that the car drivers you will encounter will not stop for you or are reckless, assume that if they can run a light, they will run a light and you should be fine. Be patient and refrain from honking your horn too long or too often and you should be fine.

Taiwan Porridge = Yum!

There is a place in Sutera Mall area by the name of Gu Zao Ren or 古早人.
Very nice Taiwanese porridge, i would let the pictures speak for themselves.
The ngo hiang, Tang dynasty bacon are amongst my favourites. Closed at
12 midnight. Free flow of porridge(porridge can come mixed with sweet potato)
and desert is provided free as well.

Their tea comes in pots as well, their Qiu Wang or 秋王 is nice as well.
This place is located opposite the Kingston Hotel and nearby to the Sutera Mall.

F&B :)

Food from Yews Cafe, service is normally quite good. The surrounding is a bit dodgy but at least there is a nice security guard sitting outside. :P

Mushroom soup is nice as well especially the Kings. :)

They are located at:
http://www.yewscafe.com.my/about.html

There is a picture of their restaurant at Taman Perling.
http://sg.openrice.com/singapore/restaurant/sr2.htm?shopid=17411&mapType=1

Defence against the Dark Arts - More on Bumi (Bumi Rules)

There are many who will tell you with confidence that you can buy bumi lots. Yes you can in a way, after the state consent and conversion but normally the conversion of the land will be done by the developer.

Defence against the Dark Arts - Bumi Rules

1. Never trust anyone that tells you that it can be done easily as it will need help from lawyers on getting everything in order(and this is only the first step!).
2. Never trust anyone who tells you to buy it with him/her (Bumi) and then share the lot and afterwards sell it to you or that
they cannot sell it without your knowledge, etc. A lot of things can be circumvented if they are bumi and that land is a
bumi lot.
3. Never trust anyone who tells you that after the bumi land is acquired by them, it can be turned back into an international
lot easily and resold to foreigners. There is a reason why it is a bumi lot and 15% cheaper in Johore.

Bumi land - Caveat Emptor!

This came from some questions i have from people who are likely dealing with grifters.

Please do not, i repeat touch Bumi land unless you deal directly with the developer who converts it for you.

Please be wary of any such get rich scheme whereby you are promised a share of a bumi lot or told you can buy a bumi lot and then get it converted later. Once a bumi guy/gal buys a bumi lot, it will not be convertible and even in the rare and very highly unlikely chance(i am already being optimistic here) this will still drag on a long time.

Please steer clear of such people and politely but firmly asks them to go cheat someone else. Unless these are your family members, else don't go for this. There are many other developments or places you can buy or rent. Other than the place you mentioned, there are also many other developments but you should get something:

1. Above 500k
2. International lot - Gazatted for foreigners
3. Trustworthy developer
4. Buy direct from developer

The issue here is not with the developer but with the person who mentioned this to you. Nusa Idaman is still a very affordable and good place and Nusa Duta is too. Do remember that even if all of of the parties involved in the bumi lot purchase are Malays, there is little to protect you in times of disputes over Bumi lots especially if you are a foreigner.

Hence i will only touch Bumi lots after they are converted to International Lots.

I know i am offending would be cheaters and conmen but our knowledge is our ONLY form of protection and if it can be considered as such, then i hope that this can be used as a tailsmen of sorts to share with others for protection.

Message to Mr Grifter, these folks are coming to MY not because they are damn bloody rich but some of them have personal issues in SG and need a place to just rest their tired and weary feet.

As some of the bros(and a sister) has rightly pointed out, most of us are not superstars, we can only afford public projects/flats in SG and we are just dwarfs in the entire scheme of things.

Please, i humbly implore you, (you know who you are) pick your mark from elsewhere, please.

Investing in Iskandar - Incentives

For those keen on investing, there are the 9 sectors one can consider:
http://www.iskandarmalaysia.com.my/pdf/investors-dialogue-2011/4-IMID2011-Journey_Developing_Capabilities_Talents.pdf

Day by day, growing more confident about things in Johore.

More news about Investing in Iskandar(Incentives!):
http://www.wealthofiskandar.com/download/Incentivising%20Investments%20in%20Iskandar%20Malaysia%20by%20Cheah%20Ping%20Yean.pdf

Lighting options

Lighting that we bought from shops in Malaysia, in this case Trendy Lighting

External lights - RM 150 including 2 energy saving bulbs

Bought from Nusa Bestari area, in the same row as BH Aircon, money changers, etc. The shop name is called Trendy and the lady boss also has a shop in Kulai. Prices are generally quite good and they do give discounts if you are equipping for the whole house. The ceiling lights in the background costs just RM 99 each with 3 energy saving bulbs included.

One thing about the energy saving bulbs is they give you 6 months warranty so do check if any "conks" out before the 6 months warranty. Do remember not to use a vacuum cleaner on any broken energy saving bulbs and evacauate if one is dropped and broken on the floor. Come back only after one hour and that is after leaving the windows open to ventilate.

They contain liquid mercury and is quite hazardous to health when broken.

Kulai, the next big thing?

Spoke with a couple of folks from IRDA again today and they are of the opinion that Kulai is in Phase 5 or basically the next growth area that they are targetting. May be a good consideration for those who are coming late in the investment cycle (for those who are so inclined?)

What if?

What should I do if I found my Daughter working in Geylang?
This thought provoking question really made me sit up and think about this scenario which no responsible parent hoped to see. My reply back then, if i get asked the same question again today, my reply would have been the same:

I would ask her why because i would have done my best for the children, i may fail in my attempts but i will always try for them. We brought them into the world, we should not only educate but teach them how to live and the good values in life.

Not just being number 1 in this assignment or that class but what it means. The world is too steeped into instant gratification, we want it and we want it now.

I will teach my children:

1. You don't need a condo or a big house to be happy, no matter how big or grand or how many rooms, you only sleep in 1 bed at a time.

2. You don't need a fancy car to feel the wind in your hair, no matter what car you drive, you can only have your rump on one car seat.

3. You don't need a gucci, prada or coach bag to have self esteem (assuming daughter)
If son, bang head on the wall, rinse and repeat until he wakes up his idea.

4. No amount of garish or noble titles can save one's life once your time is up

5. Your tombstone will only say your name, your date of death and your spouse/children/grandchildren names at most. It does not contain a title nor does it states your PHD. Not that anyone would care even if they do see it. The exhumation workers wouldn't care either as they spit into your tomb after 15 years.

6. If you fail, try again, if you fail again, try harder. If all else fails, feel free to go fishing, daddy will go with you. Will always be there for you until my eyelids are closed forever.

7. There is no such thing as if you fail in the academic system, you are doomed for life and have to be a road sweeper. Forget what the teachers said, if according to my Secondary School teacher, Miss Chow,i would be a 500 dollar banglah road sweeper.

8. You don't need to be number one, you don't need extra lessons. You are always number one in dadd's eyes. You don't need to prove anything to me, just from the start of your birth, i am always proud of you, always.

9. Care for others feelings as if you were the person. Be grateful for life's graciousness and be compassionate to others. Live honourably and do your deeds with pride, our lives are not forever, all shall come to an end, both rich or poor.

10.Be happy and once in a while, remember me and your mum with a smile when we depart from the world. A part of us will always live on in you for we will accompany you every step of the way. That is our promise.

Having done all these and doing my best, if she is still there working as a FL/Pro, i shall have to do the honourable thing to preserve her honour and do my duty as a dad.

I shall have her and my wife leave first and i will very soon follow.

Added this last part:

I have a lot of faults and went through a lot of mistakes in my life but one thing though that i have never done (so far) is to use the services of any, ahem working ladies so if i really see her there, likelihood its the makan places.

Points to ponder

Fun with words.
Have always been pondering about some phrases and words we encountered in our daily life.
For example:

An act done quickly, we call it as "Quickie"
How about if its done slowly? Do we call it "Slowkie" then?

Another one, this one needs some knowledge of Mandarin though and pardon the crude connotations.
How is it that there are Ming Sect, Sun Moon Sect but nobody ever thought of using "Blue Sect" in "Wu Xia" novels? Maybe because it would sound funny? : P

Speaking of Sun Moon Sect or "Ri Yue Shen Jiao" in Mandarin, when i first came to Malaysia, was surprised to see so many cars with their emblem(A sun and a moon). Only later did i realised that its just a fancy emblem of a star and a moon fixed onto the hoods of Proton car.

Size and types of properties

Definition of houses, to help avoid confusion, from my limited knowledge, for the most common property definition in terms of size, from smallest to biggest is:
 _   _  _  _
/_\/_\/_\/_\
|1 |2 |3 |4 |
------------
Terrace = Houses that are linked from both sides in a row, like the diagram, from #1 to #4. Some rows may even number in the tens
Terrace (Intermediate terrace) - Also known as linked house in local lingo
Terrace (Corner) as illustrated by house # 1 and #4.
_________________________________________________________________
Front               Back
 _   _               _   _
/_\/_\             /_\/_\
|1 |2 |            |3 |4 |
------             ------
Aerial view
| 3 |  4 |
| 1 |  2 |
Cluster = Houses that is part of a set of 4 where its linked by one of its side as well as the back is back to back with a neighbour
Cluster
Cluster (End lot, normally with a bigger garden area, in this case, depending on the side, it may be considered as an end lot as there are no more
cluster plots neighbouring one end.
Clusters are also marketed by certain developers as Linked Semi-D as they look exactly like Semi-Ds from the front
 _________________________________________________________________

Semi-D
| 1 |  2 |
Two houses joined together one one end whether you are looking from the front or aerial view
Some developers link them back to back instead and call them linked bungalow, aeria view is like
this:
| 1 |
| 2 |
From the front, it really looks like a bungalow but linked back to back
__________________________________________________________________
Bungalow
|  0  |
One unit by itself normally

Some folks were already ahead of us back then

Originally Posted by johnny333

We all know how good LKY & his cronies are They of course deserve the world class salaries which they voted themselves.

If you look at the "successful" in Spore many have used their connections. Not everyone has a network of "connections" to make it in Spore.

Sometimes its about value. & not affordability. Many Sporeans /ex-Sporeans are buying properties overseas because of better value. Why pay a premium for a lower quality of life in Spore?

Years ago I met an office boy who was living a humble life in Spore. He was satisfied with a simple motorcycle. He was using his $$$ to invest in Malaysian properties. While all the executives was busy being stressed out, he was sitting in the corner relaxing He was ahead of the curve with his idea of investing in value.

Spot on, everyone is entitled to their opinions. Our learned friends here have their own perspective which they are well entitled to. I am basically following the steps of my other colleagues who are FT and like them, building up a portfolio of countries, its all about choices. Right now, how many local people in SG can say they can "retreat" or move on to another country, let alone 3?

The officeboy is smart and knows where to set his priorities.

People from China can go to so many other countries after using Singapore as a transit stop, Singapore right now is like the old transit road camp in Yishun, used for holding and developing them, once they are well developed, they will just dump us for destinations like Australia or US.

Since we have always been asked to learn from the talents, this is exactly what i am doing

Back then, i also thought of what ifs:

Once my parents "OCs" passed on and we are ready, i will set up NZ and move family and kids there where they will be able to continue their education. I am now thinking of using my Dec funds to either get something cheap in Auckland or get something in Danga.

Choices

My neighbour used to be a high flyer but is now driving part time taxi as he was unable to get the same type of job no matter how many years he applied. Same for relatives and some ex colleagues. Stories like this are not uncommon in Singapore. We even have PHD guys/former AStar professors driving taxis here, so what wants and needs are we talking about? We are talking about basic survival here in SG, not even talking about wants.

Sure, while we are still gainfully employed and earning substantial wages, we can talk about wants but now the discussion is about a basic HDB flat, basic living and how even this is getting to be unachievable in SG.

While we are still young and able to make choices, we should establish a back up plan. If you haven't noticed by now, most of the FTs, including from Malaysia have hinterlands to go back to in case things don't work out here. Why would they not want to give up their citizenship back home otherwise?

Some people here make enough to make most local graduates here blush. I am not leaving because i can't make it here, i am leaving and making plans because i can. Just like how the FTs are doing here in SG, i am going the reverse route to make sure i have back up.

I am pretty comfortable at my current level but one has to look ahead and be less myopic especially if one is the main breadwinner/captain of the family. What if one day i lose my job, not talking about now as i can easily get one elsewhere but one day when i am old(50 and above).

Inflation is always a rising tide and reduces our savings substantially. What happens when one is old and by then unable to get a job and has little savings? No doubt i have enough in investments currently but who knows how things can change, I don't want to depend on my kids who will have a hard enough time here.

Who says one need to work in MY? Why do you have this worker mentality that we must work in order to survive? Have you considered income from rental or business? No wonder in Hokkien, wages/salaries are still called "coolie gang", because we still have mentalities of coolies!

I don't have to travel every day to and fro from Singapore as i can work from home. So the advantage of this is that i can continue to work in my company and i will get my pay in SGD and live in MY and pay MYR. Of course, i will still contribute to nation building every year. Once i have enough rental to sustain my family in MYR without taking into account of my pay, next step is NZ, etc.

Why i came back to Asia

My family is the reason why i came back, both my dad and mum won't want to live far away from their respective families especially when my grandma is still around. Malaysia is the first step as its the nearest as well as cheapest to achieve and my dad has family over there as well. I want them to be happy while they are still around, nothing else really matters for now.

Hence my first step is to set up a close and relatively inexpensive "hinterland" so that i can continue to work in the same company which gives me great flexibility and time management. (I don't need to go to office every day and unlike most people, i love family time, quantity counts, not only quality time) I have achieved what i wanted at the age of 25 so i no longer feel that $$$ = happiness, plus i lost a kid a couple years back, hence it kind of put a new perspective on life for me.

My 2nd step is to get more qualifications so that i meet the points for migration to NZ as they are ok with NZ but NZ has stricter qualifications requirements. Its not like our SG PR that is so readily given away like some real estate agents marketing tool(read tissues). So i want to set up something for them in MY first, then NZ and then when they have more than 1 place to go to and we have plenty of rental income as a passive source of income. That is what i ultimately want to achieve.

West coast of US/Canada is still something i want to do when i only have my wife/kids left to worry about, that is a bit further back so it remains a viable plan. For now though, since i have more than 4 colleagues in the US coming to SG to work, i think its not a good time to go back for now.

Talking about life back then in SG

Fancy a swim anyone? :)

Its getting uncomfortable, even for those getting a relatively higher salary, above 10k, etc. The wife still must work even at this level for moost people. With the increase in pressure from all fronts, no wonder i see more and more frustrated faces in the crowds daily. Yes, thats the life i want to avoid, being a security guard when i become old.

I wonder how would the next generation do, 10-20 years from now. By then probably some nicer pigeon holes would probably surpass the 1million mark.

While we continue to forge on in the name of progress and financial success, what are we teaching our kids beyond the dollars and cents? Its no wonder that our old folks are continually being abandoned or forgotten. Chucked away like some old equipment after outliving their usefulness. Some videos i find very meaningful:

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Rising prices and minimum price of houses

Back then, my reply to a forummer:

Its actually still doable now though the minimum is actually 350k ringgit and it has to be at least 2 storeys tall. As long as the property you are buying is not too far off the mark(example 320-340), the agent/guy will be able to do something for you to get around this.

I am trying to verify the rumour that the government are going to raise the minimum property price to 500k ringgit by start of next year, it would basically make it impossible for people to buy properties that are still available now.

I am thinking to cheong for Danga bay, etc and get more before that if this is true so if you find any information here, will be glad if you could share.

Which property got your fancy? Danga? You can borrow up to 90% from banks. Although most will tell you only 85% but you can actually get it for higher than that. There is still some time before the cut off date but yes, after the cutoff, it will be increasingly difficult for people to move there.

Ok, found it:

Source:
http://www.bloomberg.com/apps/news?p...d=azdYa9FrJGLo

Last paragraph:
Approval from the government’s Foreign Investment Committee won’t be needed when a property owned by a Bumiputera is sold to an ethnic minority investor for less than 20 million ringgit, Najib said. Foreigners won’t need FIC approval to buy properties for more than 500,000 ringgit, up from 250,000 ringgit, he said.

Source:
http://www.breitbart.com/article.php...show_article=1

Interesting read on the FIC.

Source:
http://www.epu.gov.my/web/guest/236

Found this one, so its not a rumour after all.

(c) Guideline on the acquisition of properties:
•Going forward, FIC will only process transactions involving the dilution of Bumiputera interests and / or Government interests in properties valued at RM 20 million and above, whether bought directly or indirectly (through acquisition of companies owning properties);
•All other property transactions shall no longer require the approval of FIC;
•Except in the event of a dilution, as stated above, foreign interests will no longer be required to apply for approval to FIC for the acquisition of properties. However, foreign interests cannot acquire properties below specified threshold limits. The threshold amounts for commercial properties will be RM 500,000. For the purchase of residential properties, the present threshold of RM 250,000 is maintained until the end of 2009, and with effect 1 January 2010, it will be RM 500,000;

Common pricing

By the way, just to share with you and rest of the bros here from the findings of my friends and myself on pricing:

All prices in SGD for reference, your mileage may vary.

Carpet grass - enough to cover an entire side and backyard - Below 500-600
KDK/Panasonic fan - 65-150 depending on regulator to the new remote control, etc type
Air con - from 480 for a Panasonic 1HP one, installation about 60-70
Toyota Car - 2nd hand, 10 year car - 11-13k
New Toyota Car, 1.5 litre for a cheap Avanza model - 26k

I wondered how my sons would be able to finance this if they turn out to be average joes for current housing prices in SG. Ok, at least i will be able to leave for them a home each should things turn out bad.

Furnishing & Security

You don't really have to furnish it until you are ready to move in. You can do simple furnishing if you are concerned about security. Its slighter a bit more secure in my own view as the guards take motorcycle and go around the estate which is better than the condo option.

I see that a lot of folks here who actually don't even secure the place Also, you can secure it with cameras as well as alarm systems if security is still a concern.

Oh i have not really, like some of the bros who advised against condos, i would go more for landed property as i get something freehold and of course own garden to grow stuff, etc.

Still its your personal choice and i respect that, i am happy for you regardless as long as you get something you like.


With a landed place, my plan is to have a couple of my existing UPS to move over there as power as well as internet also needs to be reliable. Maybe a genset but that would be overkill and also as their power plans(3 phase, etc) seems ok.

I plan to have 2 links for internet if i could or use a main link and a secondary mobile plan as a back up.

Definitely, go low profile and build up a community there. Its the convenience of the place that really attracts me. Whether in heavy rain or otherwise, so far, door to door is about 1 hour.

Its always good to have options to explore. The world is your oyster. You can do like some, move to Thailand, MY or even China.

Water is not so important a consideration here(at least not to me), power and internet is. I can still have alternatives easily and it won't really affect my work.

My plan back then prior to CNY:

I also planned to mount satelite dishes so i can watch free tv, etc. I already plan to set off fireworks at the new place this CNY and will be staying a couple of weeks before actual day.

Questions and answers

Originally Posted by lewlian88

wuqi,
Thanks much for u to share your experiences of living in JB.
I do have thoughts of shifting to JB (while still working in SG) and had share my plan to parents. Unfortunately, they disagree

a few questions, hope u don't mind sharing
- are SG allow to open a bank account in malaysia?
- ease of fund transfer between SG & MY (vice versa)
- Internet speed & reliability
- what the approx cost of rent, say if I wanted to try out if living in JB is suitable for me?

Thanks!

Sure, i understand. My parents too at one point.
Answers to your questions:

1. Yes we are allowed, when you purchase a property, you will automatically have an account too(at least most banks)

2. Easy, the bank making the loans can make arrangements. You can always open an account with Maybank and have the ease to draw money/transfer both ways.

3. Haven't tried out yet, for now i am using my GSM card for now which i know is expensive until i get the links in. I plan to move in formally once everything is completed and especially once the 7th month is over.

4. This depends, you can get some places as low as 1000 plus ringgit unfurnished and can go to 3-5k depending on whether its a cluster, semi-D


Originally Posted by Papsmearer

Wuqi,

I do have some questions for u, if u don't mind answering.
I am not familiar with the Tuas crossing as I normally don't use it. This bus u mention between Bukit Indah and Jurong East, is this SBS?
From the Tuas crossing, how long does it take to drive to Downtown JB? Off peak and peak hours?
My main concern with the Iskandar project area is that because its new, I am not sure it has the amenities, makan places, etc. of DT JB.

Hey Papsmearer, i am happy to help. Its Malaysian as far as i know: http://www.handalindah.com.my/servic...3A152832%3A319

For me, you can actually skip JB DT as they are pretty ok at Jusco, Aeon Malls and you can visit Giant too. Of course, if you like to go there, i think its about 25 mins drive from the causeway. They will have a new highway linking both the causeways soon.

Amenities, makan places is pretty well done, i am going to be in the Bukit Indah area, so far everything i need is nearby. Even coffeeshops, chinese incense/josspaper shops, ladies hair salons, barber, car repair workshops, Kumon for the kid, etc.

Originally Posted by Papsmearer

Wuqi,

Some more questions. How does this fated community thing work? I am guessing that u must pay some kind of monthly maintenance fee for the upkeep of the grounds, security guards, clubhouse, etc. If so, how much is this and is there some sort of enforcement device for owners who don't pay.

I ask this because my brother in law bought a new condo project in KL a few years. After a while, when the developer eased out after selling off all the units, the management company had difficulty collecting some of the monthly maintanance fee. Eventually, if enough of them don't pay, the management had no choice but to cut back on upkeep. Do u see this sort of situation happening in these gated communities?

Also, I am guessing the rule prohibiting for S'poreans driving Malaysian cars in S'pore is still in place? I would assume that there is some where to park ones car when they take this bus into Jurong East. I will cheak their website anyway. Thanks for the link.

Hi Papsmearer,

Yes, its about 100 ringgit monthly but for first 2 years, its waived. Its linked to a golf course and management is still done by developer. Thats why i have put down in my earlier posts not to buy condos in MY.

Even if it happens, you are still in much better shape as its much better than a condo as you don't have
1. Faulty lift to contend with
2. Common rubbish bin overflowing
3. Weird stuff happening doors, etc

Also, they have cafes, etc so they do need to keep it in some acceptable standards.

Right, that rule, so take the bus in and take the MRT from Jurong East or drive from the car parks there.

Discussion with a forummer back then

Great but we have to put things in perspective. There are so many projects coming up, which ones exactly did you see and how long ago. Exactly which Jusco did you see as Jusco side has so many residential units?

Yes the Leisure farm side is a bit too isolated for me, have you recently went to other developements and see for yourself. Bukit Indah 1 year ago and 1 year now is pretty different. From SG, on the 2nd link to HH, there are no visible plantations and even then, no roads that they can easily force one into a plantation.

You have to stop being so hard on the guys who are leaving. I do not live in an ivory tower and perharps i see things with greater clarity.

You have to understand, probably you mean well but your argument about people coming to SG is flawed. At least from the people i know, none of these new guys wants to "live" in Singapore, they just want to use the resources(education/medical) and "work" here.

When they have enough and reach 55 years, the Australians will go back. The guys from US will go back anytime. All these people have hinterlands to go back to. Despite what they may tell our government, some may still hold dual citizenship and most will not give up at all, even our fellow neighbours, the Malaysians? How many have given up their citizenship?

Those that are going to JB are looking for a place to live in and to rest their weary bones.

We will know whether you are right about the investments in SG when either it goes very well or goes very badly. No matter the investments, it has nothing to do with the daily grind everyone has to go through.

I do not want to move only when the investment fails and then what?

From what someone has asked me about guarantees in MY, can anyone make guarantees about SG?

No one can, the future i see in SG is uncertain, at least i see something for MY and thats why i swim towards it. Titanic was thought to be unsinkable is it not? Do you think the captains here will sink with the ship?

Cars in JB

Hummer anyone ? From http://www.carlist.my/

Talking about something positive now, here is a website indicative on 2nd hand car pricing in Malaysia
http://www.wemotor.com or http://www.carlist.my/

There are other websites of course but this is what i am using to guage
how much to pay if i get a car in MY.

There are always disappointments whereever one may go. Its just how someone learns from it and reacts to it.

If the government can encourage us to send our old folks there (JB) and die, why don't we while we are still young make the move now there or to other countries when we still can make choices rather than later when we have no choice?

I was once replaced by FTs as well as the company i was working for followed the popular drive popularized by our government to outsource.

I was made redundant without warning, then asked to come back as the guys screwed up the sensitive network and database. I was offered a bonus but I didn't go back and managed to find another job.

I know i am one of the few luckier ones and i am not those who take blessings for granted when occasionally a drop falls on me. I am not sure if my luck can continue to hold past age 55.

I really don't want to end up as a taxi driver or a security guard. Most importantly, i don't want to see my kids and parents suffer. I can fall and die tomorrow but i cannot let my family suffer.

I find it sad that Koreans/Japanese support each other in many many countries including our own but in SG and even overseas, we are always trying to put down/discourage each other.

This has to change, we are a dying breed as it is.

The places i have recommend are already developed. The development i have told them are also built up already. In fact, my comments has alway been to ask them to get those that are already built up and ready to move in. I do not stop them from getting those which are still being built as long as they are sure the developers are ok.

I cannot seriously forsee this place where there are so much growth potential with so many major brands and players like Jusco, Tesco, will fail. Unless maybe these players did not do adequate market research??

Back in 2009, I was still staying in SG until my parents complete the move as i wanted to make sure all my folks are totally ok, i would never force them against their will. I will still be in SG 20-30 percent of the time but i intend to rent out my place.

I am going to provide for my family and sisters until they get married and i want to give my dad and mum a safe and big home. I know they don't need it to be happy but i owe it to them to give them happiness. I also want my son to grow up with a fallback plan. Most people here buy insurance for their cars but forget about their children.
Even with my current pay, its still stressful as i am taking care of my whole family and my wife and kids. My monthly utilities is 400 plus, add to my dads one, its easily 800. Plus car park and other things like town council, etc. Its more than enough to service a loan on a small unit in MY, thats the train of thought i originally had and what got me started actually.

I worked multiple jobs when i was young to put myself and siblings through school so i know what it was like and to go without meals, or utilities at home for days. My parents never sought help from the government as we always believed in depending on ourselves and slowly we pulled out of poverty.

With the move, my parents will be more than well provided for and so will be the same for my wife.

My dad will no longer be asked to go back to work by my sister who doesn't want to contribute to the family. I told my dad not to, i told him even if i have to starve, i will make sure the family is fed. That made me all the more convinced its time to make a move.

Awaken

I would like to see more Singaporeans awaken. Its ok whether they go to my neighbourhood or not. Just that they need to know they have a choice.

I have never said negative to foreigners in all the countries i have been to. This is where i was born and bred after all. Though there was scant feeding and much plundering of time, effort and taxes from me, i am still grateful.

Its mainly a combination of push and pull factors that made me decide to investigate JB early this year and see for myself what a place it really is.
Everyone has a reason and not all who are leaving are traitors. I will still be paying loads of taxes back to SG even when i am in JB.

There are times when even a person who love the country has to make hard decisions, if not himself, for his family.

Again, i have told the folks here not to get into condos and also the pitfalls and to check first before going. En bloc/mini-bonds, etc also happened in "risk free" Singapore?

As i said before, no one can guarantee what tomorrow will bring, not even in Singapore.

There are always uncertainties, its just that everyone has a different way of coping with it. No way is the right way but we all choose our path. Whether you ultimately will leave or go, i respect your decision.

We are talking about choices for the people, instead of being taught what to think and to always think of fear. Sometimes people need to know that there is world beyond our shores.

Terrace houses (They call them linked houses here too)

For most terrace, its basically 4 or 4+1 room and basically 1 small room(granny) and 1 maid room(depending on configuration) and a 3 rooms upstairs.
One masterbedroom with attached toilet. 1 medium and 1 smaller room

sharing a toilet. There is also a space with high ceiling which lets you put a dining set + sofa there with a lcd/plasma mounted on a wall for a cosy "2nd" living area or you can use it as a formal dining area. The choice is yours. Oh and of course, all models(even the smallest) have a storeroom and wet+dry kitchen.
Whichever property you go for or which path you choose to take, sincere best wishes for you.

Again, like my dad always said to me, start small start big never mind, must start somewhere!!!

Even my dad who was a stubborn anti-jb guy is convinced after our repeated visits.

Remember, even with as little as 12-15k, you can make a difference and go for a terrace house. Own land, everything.

Forget what people will say about renovation costs etc. If you are in no hurry to rent out, you can alway renovate 1, 3, 5 or even 50 years down the road. Do it slowly as there is no hurry, there is no 99 years limit breathing down your throat.

Also for rental market, if you do it up and fully furnished, of course you can have higher rental income but there are also people who rent it out unfurnished (advantage is start up cost low as no need for furnishing, disadvantage is lesser monthly rental income) so there are many ways to skin a cat so to speak.

We need to stop only thinking out of the box, creativity cannot be taught. It is something to be learnt on your own.

Also, the properties i mentioned so far are freehold land and foreigners lot so its land gazetted and meant for us anyway.

Remember to check for the status of the property though, i understand there are some other projects being launched which are 99 years. Do your sums carefully.

We need to start thinking out of the country!!!

Bukit Indah

A picture of the bamboo grove at "The Golf"


Bukit Indah, its in Nusajaya area. Its the heart of everything! Lots!! Just came back from another visit today, car chock full of stuff for my siblings. My mum and dad were dead tired as there were just too much to see. Familiar shops like Giordano, SK jewellery, Breadtalk, Kenny Rogers, Toastbox are there. Of course, A&W is there too!!! :P

It has Jusco, Aeon malls and Tesco (Tesco still building up) is JUST ACROSS the road from them. Giant is within easy reach as well(10-14 mins drive)

There are also going to be major hospitals, police stations very near there.
The best golf course in my humble experience is one that is built right next to where you live. That, personally to me is Horizon Hills.

Of course, there is also Pulai Springs Golf Resort which is ideal for those staying in Mont Calista which is like a 7 minutes drive. Giant is also within 3 minutes worth of driving.

Do some research based on what i have posted and you already have a headstart.

I wished someone guided me through instead of me having to "knocked" my head here and there and finding out things myself. Still, i hope my rough guide would be of some use to you. All the best sir!

Go west

As a bro pointed out back then, yes going to the Tuas side, its time to go West!! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sUp0uhZ2uvg

Interest rates back then in 2009

Interest rates will remain low with the banks for at least until 2nd half of next year so there is still time to get in. You can google for news on this but i have it from bloomberg.
Added revised link:
http://www.bloomberg.com/apps/news?p...d=ahTofKGlP4PA