NCT Group of Companies (NCT Group) marks a significant double milestone — the launch of its maiden RM1 billion Sukuk Wakalah Programme, with Maybank participating in the first tranche up to RM390 million in unrated Sukuk, alongside the ground-breaking ceremony for Phase 2 of its flagship NCT Smart Industrial Park (NSIP) in Selangor.
The award-winning developer established the RM1 billion Sukuk Wakalah Programme to enhance funding flexibility for its working capital needs and support the Group’s long-term growth strategy, while broadening its access to the domestic debt capital market.
Dato’ Sri Yap Ngan Choy, Founder and Group Managing Director of NCT Group, said “We are delighted to work with Maybank as our valued partner in our Sukuk Wakalah Programme, a key initiative that strengthens our financial foundation. The Sukuk Programme will provide us with greater flexibility to pursue new opportunities, driving us into the next phase of growth as we continue to deliver developments that generate sustainable value for our stakeholders.”
The Group has appointed Maybank Investment Bank Berhad as the Sole Principal Adviser and Sole Lead Arranger for the establishment of the Sukuk Wakalah Programme, as well as the Sole Lead Manager for the first tranche of the unrated Sukuk.
Following the Sukuk announcement, NCT Group also celebrated the ground-breaking of Phase 2 of its 732.5-acre NCT Smart Industrial Park (NSIP) in Selangor.
With a gross development value of RM2.5 billion, the ground-breaking of Phase 2 underscores NCT Group’s strong commitment to driving industrial transformation and promoting economic growth in the state through world-class development built on the pillars of innovation, digitalisation and sustainability.
The new phase will build upon the success of Phase 1, featuring similar industrial components with larger plots and enhanced infrastructure to meet the evolving needs of high-technology, logistics, and manufacturing industries. Maintaining NSIP’s core focus on smart and sustainability-driven development, Phase 2 will further strengthen the park’s integrated ecosystem with improved connectivity, upgraded utilities, and advanced digital systems that support automation and future-ready operations for long-term industrial growth. Completion of Phase 2 is scheduled for 2029.
Dato’ Sri Yap added, “Another key milestone has been achieved today with this ground-breaking. Given the scale and expectations of this project, we are determined to ensure that each phase is completed well within its timeline as we continue to shape the nation’s industrial future. This next chapter brings us closer to realising a smart, sustainable, and globally competitive ecosystem that will elevate the sector.”
Located within the Integrated Development Region in South Selangor (IDRISS), NSIP is NCT Group’s flagship project and one of Malaysia’s most advanced managed industrial ecosystems that is redefining industrial development in the region while meeting global ESG standards. Once fully developed, NSIP will serve as a key catalyst for the progress of Selangor and the broader IDRISS corridor.
Sunway City Iskandar Puteri (SCIP) has won Platinum distinction at the Smart Township Malaysia 2025 Awards organised by PLANMalaysia (Jabatan Perancangan Bandar dan Desa) under the Ministry of Housing and Local Government (Kementerian Perumahan dan Kerajaan Tempatan [KPKT]), ranking first among 15 participating townships nationwide.
This milestone marks a historic achievement for Malaysia’s urban development landscape as for the first time, a developer-led township has earned Platinum recognition in a programme traditionally reserved for local councils and government agencies.
The Smart Township Malaysia 2025 Awards operate under the Rangka Kerja Bandar Pintar Malaysia (2019–2025), the national benchmark for smart city implementation aligned with Malaysia’s Smart Nation 2040 vision. PLANMalaysia’s evaluation framework – under the Malaysia Standard ISO 37122:2019 – assesses the performance and level of the townships’ initiatives and implementation against seven key pillars: Smart Government, Smart Economy, Smart People, Smart Living, Smart Mobility, Smart Environment, and Smart Digital Infrastructure.
Chung Soo Kiong, Managing Director of Sunway Property, highlighted that the “This Platinum recognition reaffirms Sunway Property’s leadership in driving Malaysia’s next generation of smart townships. Through Sunway City Iskandar Puteri, we’ve successfully brought to life the seven key pillars set by PLANMalaysia of what a truly integrated, future-ready community is. By harnessing the power of AI, technology, and sustainability, we’re creating connected ecosystems that learn, adapt, and thrive — a model for the smart townships of today and tomorrow.”
Gerard Soosay, Chief Executive Officer of Sunway Property (Southern Region), emphasised that sustainability and innovation has always been at the heart of Sunway’s development philosophy.
“At Sunway, sustainability is embedded into every aspect of how we design and build. As the Master Community Developer, our focus goes beyond infrastructure—it’s about creating smart, connected, and inclusive townships that elevate the quality of life for our community. Sunway City Iskandar Puteri reflects this long-term vision, where smart technologies, digital systems, and sustainable design work hand-in-hand to build resilient communities and a better future for generations to come.”
This Platinum distinction positions Sunway City Iskandar Puteri as the blueprint for Malaysia’s next generation of smart and sustainable townships, showcasing how developer-led innovation can complement national urbanisation goals. The recognition also reinforces Sunway Property’s strategic alignment with Malaysia’s Smart City Malaysia 2.0 and Smart Nation 2040 frameworks, opening new avenues for collaboration with federal agencies and setting the pace for sustainable urban transformation.
NCT Group of Companies (NCT Group), in collaboration with Northern Gateway (NGX) has launched the NCT InnoSphere, the first certified project of its kind to be built in the Delapan Special Border Economic Zone (SBEZ) in Bukit Kayu Hitam, Kedah. The project leverages NCT Group’s expertise in bridging technology advancement with environmental sustainability to create an industrial park set to attract global investors and next-generation industries.
NCT InnoSphere, spanning across 137 acres of free zone land, is being developed in partnership with NGX, a wholly owned subsidiary of Minister of Finance Inc. (MOF Inc.) and master developer of SBEZ. The development comes on the heels of the NCT Smart Industrial Park (NSIP) in Selangor, launched by NCT Group in 2023, Malaysia’s first certified MIP, which achieved 80% sales in Phase 1 and is set for vacant possession in Q4 2025. NSIP has been recognised for its green-oriented design and innovation, including a Five‑Diamond rating under the Low Carbon Cities 2030 Challenge for its exemplary low-carbon design, the StarProperty Excellence in Business Estate Award for best industrial park development, and the Asia Pacific CEO Sustainability Awards 2025 for sustainability leadership in industrial development.
Dato’ Sri Yap Ngan Choy, Founder and Group Managing Director of NCT Group, said, “We are honoured to work alongside the Kedah State Government and NGX on this transformative, world-class initiative. NCT InnoSphere will not only unlock long-term economic value creation for the northern region, it will support national efforts to diversify logistics channels and facilitate seamless trade access among regional markets.”
Under the Joint Development Agreement, NCT Group is responsible for the full delivery of the project, including planning, construction, and ecosystem development. NGX, as landowner and facilitator, will oversee the primary infrastructure works, utility provisions, and regulatory coordination to ensure smooth project execution.
Its strategic location adjacent to the Malaysia-Thailand border and in close proximity to Penang Port, positions NCT InnoSphere as a vital land access trade gateway for the Northern Corridor, while also serving as a hub for key industries including logistics, automotive supply chains, food manufacturing, digital and smart technologies, advanced manufacturing, and agriculture and bio-industries.
Dato’ Sri Yap added, “Our second MIP is a strategic leap forward in our commitment to help shape Malaysia’s industrial future with a high-impact ecosystem. NCT InnoSphere is designed to harness the strengths of cross-border trade, logistics efficiency, and smart infrastructure, creating a significant platform for advanced industries such as semiconductors, electrical and electronics, and smart logistics to flourish. As with NSIP, our goal is to foster a resilient environment on a foundation of digital readiness and innovation.”
Razwin Sulairee Hasnan Termizi, Group Chief Executive Officer of NGX further added: “NCT InnoSphere is built at the Zero Mile Zone, the very first point of Malaysia’s supply chain. Each year, nearly 1.3 million trucks cross at Bukit Kayu Hitam–Sadao, carrying close to RM70 billion in annual border trade, making InnoSphere the first touchpoint for consolidation, light assembly, or full-scale manufacturing. This creates what we call the First Load Advantage, where investors capture value in the first mile, as every truck and shipment that flows south begins its journey here. As part of Delapan, InnoSphere also sits at the convergence of more than 60 Free Trade Agreements (FTAs), giving investors seamless access to regional and global markets. Penang becomes a natural stop along a one-flow corridor that ultimately leads to Singapore. Backed by the Bukit Kayu Hitam Inland Port (BKH ICD) and strengthened by Thailand’s role as Malaysia’s natural value chain partner, InnoSphere is an industrial park that will define the cost of supply chains to be competitive, directly tied to the cross-border flows that already drive this region’s economy.”
NCT InnoSphere is planned as an eight-phase development, with each phase equipped with a mix of industrial, commercial, and support components to efficiently facilitate operational, trade and manufacturing activities. The development will feature over 230 units, including semi-detached, detached, cluster, terrace, and built-to-suit configurations, designed to accommodate diverse business needs across sectors, with an estimated Gross Development Value (GDV) of RM1.10 billion.
With a Silver Provisional GreenRE Certification in hand, NCT InnoSphere is the first MIP in Northern Malaysia with this distinction. Aligned with NCT Group’s longstanding sustainability drive, the project will incorporate features that promote environmental responsibility and greener operational efficiency in forward-thinking industrial layouts.
NCT InnoSphere will be a catalyst for industrial advancement in the Northern Corridor. Through its Free Zone designation and collaboration with agencies like MIDA and NCER Malaysia, NCT InnoSphere will provide investors duty exemptions, streamlined customs processes and access to cross-border incentives. Additionally, a dedicated one-stop centre within the park will offer integrated investor services, including licensing support and coordination with relevant government agencies.
Barry Callebaut Group, the world’s leading manufacturer of high-quality chocolate and cocoa solutions, and A.P. Moller – Maersk (Maersk), an integrated logistics company, proudly celebrate the official opening of their Built-To-Suit cocoa bean warehouse in Pasir Gudang, Malaysia. The two companies had entered into a decade-long partnership in 2023 to build and operate this facility.
This is the first multi-storey ramp-up facility in Pasir Gudang, built specifically to store cocoa beans. Spanning over 600,000 square feet, this makes it one of the largest cocoa bean storage facilities in the Asia Pacific region. With a capacity to hold nearly 40,000 MT of cocoa beans, the warehouse is purpose-built to support an integrated supply chain and designed for operational efficiency and responsiveness. It is fully equipped with advanced technology including Maersk’s latest Warehouse Management System, which enables real-time inventory tracking, optimized workflows and enhanced data visibility. It also contains features such as LED lighting, and natural ventilation to reduce energy use.
“This new facility is aligned with the Ministry of Plantation and Commodities, and the Malaysian Cocoa Board national agenda, to strengthen the Agri-commodity sector in this region. It is to sustain our momentum, boosting competitiveness, and reinforcing Malaysia’s stature on the global cocoa map,” said Datuk Dr. Ramle Hj Kasin, Director General of the Malaysian Cocoa Board.
Strategically located near the Port of Tanjung Pelepas, one of Malaysia’s key maritime gateways, and just one kilometer from Barry Callebaut’s cocoa processing factory in Pasir Gudang, the facility is ideally positioned to support both regional and global supply chains. It will serve as a key storage hub for cocoa beans sourced from around the world, including Africa, Latin America, and Asia, supporting the growth ambition of Barry Callebaut to satisfy customers requirements across Asia and beyond.
“This facility is a game-changer for our supply chain in Asia Pacific,” said Alain Freymond, President, Global Cocoa at Barry Callebaut. “In today’s environment, where managing the cocoa value chain has become more critical than ever, it gives us greater control over bean quality and enhances our ability to serve customers across the region with speed and precision. Our partnership with Maersk continues to grow, and this warehouse reflects our shared commitment to building a resilient and future-ready logistics network.”
Since 2022, Maersk has supported Barry Callebaut’s supply chain from cocoa-growing origins globally to processing sites in Asia Pacific through integrated ocean and landside logistics services. In Malaysia, this includes the import of cocoa beans via shipping through the Port of Tanjung Pelepas and trucking services between the port and the warehouse.
Ditlev Blicher, President Asia Pacific at Maersk, commented, “We’re thrilled to celebrate the opening of Barry Callebaut’s new warehouse in Malaysia. Our end-to-end logistics solutions are designed to empower Barry Callebaut with greater supply chain visibility, efficiency, and control—helping them respond faster to market needs and deliver outstanding service to their customers. We look forward to growing together and supporting their continued success with innovative, reliable logistics.”
The official opening ceremony of one of the largest cocoa bean warehouses in Asia Pacific brought together leaders from both organisations, local stakeholders, and partners to celebrate this milestone and reaffirm their commitment to innovation, sustainability, and growth in the region.
The Big Tiny story started in 2016, during Adrian’s family trip along Australia’s iconic Great Ocean Road. As his family journeyed through the coastal vistas and rural retreats, an idea began to take shape: What if this sense of calmness could be made accessible to others, anywhere in the world through sustainable and mobile living?
Pioneering eco-friendly getaways: Dave Ng, Adrian Chia and Jeff Yeo.
Upon returning to Singapore, Adrian shared his idea with two long-time friends and soon-to-be co-founders at Big Tiny, Dave Ng and Jeff Yeo, both former Singapore Army and Navy scholars respectively. Together, they envisioned crafting tiny houses on wheels that would bring this same restorative clarity to others while simultaneously empowering communities.
A Product Designed for Shared Success
Comfortable and cosy – inside a quaint tiny house.
Big Tiny was officially launched in 2017. Its product derives from a simple concept which made perfect sense—travel and leave a positive impact on a place and its people.
The founders believe that the modern life-style, for all its conveniences, often distracts people from the basics—nature, simplicity and meaningful moments. With that, its brand mandate is centred around helping people to reconnect with themselves and nature.
The company and its products are defined by three robust core values:
Connection with Nature: Locations are carefully selected where guests can wake up to wide open skies, immerse themselves in pristine landscapes and experience the quiet beauty of the outdoors. Big Tiny’s low-impact builds are designed to preserve the integrity of these natural environments.
Simplicity with Purpose: Every Big Tiny stay is intentionally minimal yet complete, removing the noise of modern living while ensuring comfort and functionality. From the design of tiny houses to the curated experiences offered, Big Tiny champions the idea that less can be more—more meaningful, more sustainable and more fulfilling.
Sustainability through Experience: Rather than preaching eco-consciousness, tiny houses invite its guests to experience it through the stillness of a stay, the satisfaction of living with less and the joy of discovering the surroundings. These tiny houses are not just a place to sleep; they are vessels for a lifestyle shift—subtle, but lasting.
These values are woven into the very fabric of a Big Tiny experience, from the layout of a tiny house to the way it partners with landowners and communities. Ultimately, the brand doesn’t just offer accommodation—it’s a chance to pause, reflect and return to what’s essential.
As a proud pioneer in this niche eco-tourism space, Big Tiny designs, builds and manages eco-conscious tiny houses on underutilised lands—transforming idle plots into revenue-generating destinations. These tiny homes are then placed within its Tiny Away web platform (tinyaway.com) for bookings, alongside 11 other online travel sites.
But the company doesn’t do it alone, of course, as it involves strategic partners along the process. Its ecosystem brings together landowners, tiny house buyers and travellers on a single beneficial model for all parties.
“Basically, there are three external core parties involved in the equation with us being the linchpin that pulls together everyone. Let’s say you own a piece of land which you don’t have any plans for but is the perfect spot for our tiny houses. So, hosting a tiny house on your land naturally unlocks a revenue stream for you while guests can have access to a unique, nature-immersive stay. The landowners are not the only income earners; a tiny house buyer too can earn passive income through our tiny house sale and management programme,” explained Adrian.
As for Big Tiny, it holds critical roles for its end-to-end capability—from land activation to architectural design to operations—the company’s full-stack solution gives it greater control over quality, scalability and sustainability. Big Tiny’s position as a curator of experiences evokes emotional resonance for guests, backed by operational efficiency and proven returns. This is what truly sets Big Tiny’s unique selling proposition.
Apart from being positioned as an accommodation, tiny houses too can function as:
A comfortable home office, studio or workshops venue.
An outstanding pop-up cart or a Farmer’s Market Stall.
A guest house or even a holiday home—an affordable luxury indeed!
Tiny Houses Everywhere!
A tiny house perched on the pastures of Glenlyon, Australia.
Since its first in Australia, Big Tiny is gradually taking over the globe, despite its business being disrupted during the pandemic. Today, the brand operates in Australia, New Zealand, Japan, Malaysia, Taiwan, Singapore, China and Europe, building a thriving ecosystem and establishing itself as a key player in the alternative accommodation space. In many ways, Big Tiny has exceeded its initial expectations for brand traction, buyer interest and global reach.
Scattered across 19 countries, each market presents its own unique landscape and audience for the tiny home experience:
In Australia where its journey began, the concept of tiny house strongly resonates with both domestic and international travellers seeking authentic, nature-based getaways. The expansive rural terrain, paired with growing interest in sustainable travel, created a fertile ground for the brand to grow.
Big Tiny’s minimalist concept strikes a chord with New Zealand and Japan as it aligns with their respective cultural values—connection with nature through its refined, thoughtful designs.
A tiny house in Malaysia.
In Malaysia, the brand is seeing growing interest from both eco-conscious millennials and families looking for unique, short-haul experiences, especially as awareness of sustainability and experiential travel continues to rise. In December 2024, Big Tiny and IOI Properties Group Berhad embarked on a strategic collaboration with the placement of tiny homes at the Amigo Clubhouse @ 16 Sierra in Puchong. This partnership supports both entities’ environmental, social and governance (ESG) vision towards sustainable, eco-living, while offering guests immersive, nature-inspired experiences.
Singapore, despite being its headquarters and an urban market, has shown strong interest and demand for nearby, nature-based escapes—especially with Big Tiny’s expansion into Lazarus Island.
Europe’s entry has been more exploratory at this stage but promising, with pilot activations in scenic regions sparking conversation and demand for low-impact, mobile-friendly tourism infrastructure.
Additionally for this year, its footprint continues to expand with profound milestones achieved during the first half of 2025. Big Tiny has entered the China market beginning with Guangzhou, on top of enhancing its portfolio in Australia, raising its profile in Taiwan and Singapore’s Mandarin-speaking communities. Each presence and initiative are a bold move reaffirming the borderless resonance of sustainable, experiential-led travel.
Its official presence in China as one of Asia’s most dynamic tourism markets has generated strong traction through its tiny house owner-ship programme, and the brand is preparing for Shenzhen next.
Juggling Dream and Reality
Establishing Big Tiny came with its fair share of obstacles. While the concept made perfect sense, it was anyhow, one that was still nascent.
Adrian reveals its biggest road-block, “Convincing both ends of the spectrum—landowners and travellers—to embrace a new way of experiencing nature through compact homes on wheels against the backdrop of remote landscapes. As an unconventional and almost un-heard-of concept, it demanded persistence, thoughtful education and clear articulation of our vision to gain trust and build traction”.
It also stretched logistical capabilities as Big Tiny needed to source sustainable materials and design both on- and off-grid systems, all while ensuring regulatory compliance across different countries was met.
“With a problem-solving mindset, we undertook the strategy of engaging partnerships. Supported by the right parties, we were able to scale our vision—from securing scenic plots, refining operations, increasing footprints and delivering nature-based stays that integrate and balance eco-conscious values with comfort and accessibility,” said Adrian.
More importantly, Big Tiny resiliently kept to its belief that it wasn’t just building tiny houses, instead it is essentially reshaping human-nature interaction, one stay at a time. Naturally, this belief continues to drive the brand forward today.
The Next Big Tiny Stride
The future is promising, as the company believes that eco-conscious travel will shift from doing less harm to actively giving back.
“Our guests will continue seeking regenerative experiences that will positively impact local ecosystems and communities, and this movement is likely to grow amongst the travel community,” explained Adrian.
Big Tiny foresees travellers expecting:
Personalised Sustainability: Data driven choices (from energy use to local sourcing) tailored to each guest’s values.
Deep Cultural Immersion: Hands on conservation, farm-to-table dining and authentic storytelling with local partners.
Tech-enabled Transparency: Real-time carbon and water use tracking, renewable energy dashboards and blockchain-backed supply chains.
With its projection, Big Tiny is adopting a ‘living lab’ model to stay at the forefront of its game. This model is propelled by piloting various environmental technology solutions, circular material construction and AI-powered guest experience platforms.
Additionally, it continues to forge strategic alliances with conservation groups and smart-tech startups to co-create the next generation of tiny house modules that are not just low in impact but ultimately net positive.
At the end of the day, by continuously iterating on de-sign, embedding real-time sustainability and amplifying local community benefits, Big Tiny is positive that the brand will lead the transformation from eco-friendly stays to re-generative travel destinations.
For more information on Big Tiny, visit www.bigtiny.com.my.
This article is featured as the Cover Story for The SmartInvestor’s September/October 2025 issue.
Gamuda Land, the property development arm of Gamuda Berhad, has entered into a synergistic collaboration with Taylor’s Assets, the property investment and asset management arm of Taylor’s Education Group, to redevelop a prime 2.88-acre freehold commercial site in SS15, Subang Jaya. This redevelopment is part of Taylor’s Assets’ strategic initiative to strengthen its education real estate portfolio, with Gamuda Land invited as the development partner. The collaboration reflects a shared vision of building a stronger, more vibrant community while reinforcing Taylor’s long-standing presence in Subang Jaya.
With an estimated Gross Development Value (GDV) of RM500 million, the redevelopment will introduce a vibrant mixed-use development comprising serviced apartments, purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA), and retail spaces to enhance SS15’s livability and commercial vibrancy. Addressing the acute shortage of quality student accommodation in Subang Jaya, the project directly responds to the growing demand for PBSA and is targeted for completion in November 2029.
“This redevelopment is a strategic step forward for Gamuda Land as we continue to apply our town-making expertise beyond our core township developments. While large-scale townships remain our foundation, select urban regeneration projects like SS15 allow us to contribute meaningfully to matured neighbourhoods through smart design, connectivity and integration. With a carefully planned mix of serviced apartments, purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA), and retail — all designed with liveability, accessibility and community in mind — the development will rejuvenate a well-loved part of Subang Jaya,” said Chu Wai Lune, Chief Executive Officer of Gamuda Land.
“The SS15 prime site has long stood as a legacy landmark for Taylor’s, and this redevelopment marks a bold step in reimagining its role for the future. This transformation will not only revitalise the heart of Subang Jaya but also reaffirm its significance as a centre of community life. Importantly, this project will add 401 bedrooms to our PBSA portfolio, with the ambition to expand student accommodation inventory as demand strengthens. In doing so, the development enhances Taylor’s ability to respond to market needs with flexibility and foresight. Through this project, Taylor’s Assets further strengthens its leadership in the PBSA market, benchmarking Malaysia’s offering against established markets in the UK, US, and Australia. We are also open to expanding collaborations with other developers and education operators to grow this segment sustainably across Malaysia and the region.” said Dato Loy Teik Ngan, Group Executive Chairman of Taylor’s Education Group.
The development will include a purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA) tower, managed by Taylor’s Hostel Management — the multi award-winning student accommodation operator renowned for delivering quality living experiences. The PBSA will help address the growing need for quality student accommodation in Subang Jaya, particularly for first-year students.
This project underscores Taylor’s Assets’ broader growth strategy to diversify within the education sector, with PBSA positioned as a core anchor. With an established presence in Malaysia, Singapore and Vietnam, Taylor’s Education Group aims to expand its portfolio through capital-efficient partnerships that generate recurring income, enhance community impact, and deliver sustainable long-term returns.
The masterplan includes three towers and a retail hub: a 31-storey and a 30-storey serviced apartment tower, alongside a 17-storey purpose-built student accommodation tower. Thoughtfully designed as a community-centric lifestyle hub, the development complements SS15’s vibrant commercial scene with a retail hub fronting Jalan SS15/8, designed to encourage walkability and social interaction.
RHB Banking Group (RHB or the Group) recently announced a strategic collaboration with OSK Property to offer Malaysians greater access to overseas residential properties through the launch of the RHB Overseas Property Financing solution. This offering debuts with Melbourne Square, OSK Property’s landmark development in Southbank, Melbourne, Australia.
Melbourne Square is a mixed-use precinct offering spacious residences with panoramic city views, extensive green spaces, and convenient proximity to universities, retail hubs, and cultural attractions. This makes it an attractive choice for Malaysian seeking to secure an alternate residence with long-term capital appreciation.
Under this strategic partnership, RHB Premier clients now access Malaysian Ringgit (MYR)-denominated full flexi housing loans for overseas residential properties in Australia. The RHB Overseas Property Financing solution, designed for Malaysians who are neither permanent residents nor citizens of Australia, is applicable for properties in Melbourne and Sydney, Australia (within a 30km radius of the Central Business District). The financing comes with flexible repayment terms, no-cost redraw facilities, and early release options during the construction phase.
The financing solution is also applicable for properties in London, UK (Zones 1-3). This offering is part of the Group’s plan to expand its overseas property financing to key global cities, aligning with market trends and the aspirations of its Premier clients. The product’s features are designed for clients to manage foreign exchange exposure while complying with Bank Negara Malaysia’s regulations.
Dato’ Mohd Rashid Mohamad, RHB Banking Group Managing Director / Group Chief Executive Officer said “RHB remains committed to being the trusted partner for our Premier clients as they diversify and expand their residential real estate portfolios beyond Malaysia’s borders. Property continues to be a time-tested, resilient asset class, offering long-term value and a natural hedge against inflation. Through this partnership with OSK Property, we are offering our clients with seamless financing solutions that enable them to confidently capitalise on premium overseas opportunities like Melbourne Square.”
Ong Ju Yan, Group Managing Director, OSK Property Group, added, “RHB Bank has introduced an innovative and flexible financing product for Malaysians to acquire properties overseas. This unique product can help Malaysian investors and families to fulfil their dreams of owning a property in a prime location like Melbourne Square.”
The partnership was launched at Beyond Borders: Australia Property Investment Outlook, an exclusive event that brought together property experts and investors. Dominic Heaton-Watson, Associate Director of the International Residential Property at Knight Frank Malaysia, delivered the keynote presentation, highlighting Melbourne’s robust economic fundamentals and rising popularity among buyers seeking property for their children’s education.
RHB plans to expand its overseas property financing to include more Australian cities and outer zones of London, aligned with market trends and client needs. The RHB Premier proposition reinforces the Group’s commitment to delivering financial solutions that help clients grow their international real estate investments.
Bridge Data Centres (BDC), a leading regional provider of hyperscale data centre solutions, has partnered with Johor Special Water (JSW) to embark on Malaysia’s first Water Reclamation Plant (WRP) integrated within a data centre facility.
The Water Reclamation Plant (WRP) is the first of its kind, repurposing treated effluent from a
nearby Indah Water Konsortium (IWK) facility and converting it into high-grade reclaimed water
suitable for data centre cooling.
The plant applies advanced Membrane Bioreactor (MBR) and Reverse Osmosis (RO)
technologies to deliver superior water recovery and quality. Located at the MY07 campus in Ulu
Tiram, Johor, the initiative is an exciting step forward in aligning high-performance digital
infrastructure with national sustainability goals.
Mr Eric Fan, CEO of Bridge Data Centres, said the project demonstrates BDC’s commitment to
environmental leadership and sustainable growth in Malaysia. “This is more than a technical
achievement — it is an innovative response to growing industry demand for hyperscalers which
vie for water resources. BDC’s investments in infrastructure and technologies in this plant are
anchored on harvesting recycled water for industrial use instead of competing for potable water
supplies”, said Mr Fan.
The plant significantly reduces reliance on potable water and strengthens the long-term resilience
of BDC’s operations, while supporting Johor’s broader environmental agenda. With cumulative
investments in Johor exceeding billions, BDC’s facility in MY07 is designed to support up to over
200MW of IT load across multiple phases and serves cloud providers, AI compute operators, and
mission-critical enterprises across Southeast Asia. More than 200 skilled jobs in engineering, IT,
and operations have been created as part of the MY07 development.
Mr Fan added that the project was designed in full compliance with guidelines issued by the
National Water Services Commission (SPAN), and that BDC worked closely with regulatory
agencies, JSW, IWK, and Permodalan Darul Ta’zim (PDT) throughout the planning and execution
phases.
In addition to the Water Reclamation Plant, BDC’s broader water sustainability strategy includes
rainwater harvesting, condensate recovery, and the exploration of alternative effluent sources to
diversify supply and minimise environmental impact. The plant also features smart water metering
for real-time monitoring, enabling a more efficient and measurable approach to water use.
Currently in its final commissioning phase, the Water Reclamation Plant is expected to be fully
operational by the fourth quarter of 2025. Test runs have already demonstrated water quality
outputs that exceed industry standards.
BDC’s initiative not only sets a new benchmark for sustainable data centre operations but also
positions Johor as a rising hub for climate-conscious digital infrastructure in the region. As the
demand for hyperscale capacity continues to grow, this model offers a blueprint for how the
industry can address resource challenges through innovation and partnership.
BDC currently has six data centres in operation or development across Malaysia.
Binghatti, a leading property developer based in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), has officially designated Malaysia as its Southeast Asia investment hub to drive regional interest in its expanding portfolio of premium residential developments in Dubai.
With a development portfolio exceeding AED50 billion (approx. RM58 billion) of more than 80 projects, and over 11,000 residential units delivered across Dubai, Binghatti brings a proven track record of architectural innovation and execution to international markets.
This move comes amid sustained momentum in Dubai’s real estate sector, which recorded transactions worth over AED 431 billion (approx. RM 498 billion) in the first half of 2025—a 25% year-on-year increase. Foreign demand for real estate, strengthened bilateral and multilateral ties, and the UAE’s safe haven status continue to fuel rapid growth in housing prices and rental rates, while contributing to ample domestic liquidity.
As the appointed hub, Malaysia will serve as a launchpad for investor engagement across Southeast Asia, with a specific focus on reaching Malaysian and regional buyers through dedicated previews, advisory services and after-sales support. This strategic move builds on Malaysia’s strong appetite for international real estate—driven by a growing base of high-net-worth individuals, with its ultra-high-net-worth population projected to grow by 35% over the next five years, one of the fastest growth rates in Asia. Its well-developed financial infrastructure facilitates seamless cross-border transactions, while direct flight connectivity to Dubai further strengthens Malaysia’s role as a gateway for regional investors seeking access to tax-friendly and high-growth markets like the UAE.
The initiative spotlights Binghatti’s latest off-plan development, Aquarise—an ultra-luxury waterfront tower currently under construction and scheduled for handover between late 2026 and mid-2027. Featuring sculptural, water-inspired architecture, smart-home technology, and resort-style amenities, Aquarise is located in Business Bay, one of Dubai’s most sought-after districts known for its proximity to Downtown Dubai, the Burj Khalifa, and the Dubai Canal. Units start from AED1 million (approx. RM1.16 million). Other developments, including Skyhall and Skyrise, are also underway, further expanding Binghatti’s portfolio and offering a range of premium residential investment opportunities.
“Our presence in Malaysia marks the next chapter in Binghatti’s global investment platform—bringing world-class Dubai real estate closer to Southeast Asian investors,” said Lucky Zhang, Sales Manager of Binghatti. “With Swan Knights and Skylink as our partners, this alliance reflects our shared commitment to delivering a seamless investment experience—rooted in trust, design excellence, and long-term value.”
Binghatti is renowned for its architectural distinction and global partnerships, having launched several record-breaking branded residences—including the Bugatti Residences, Mercedes-Benz Places, and Burj Binghatti Jacob & Co. Residences, set to become the world’s tallest branded residential tower.
Investor engagement activities will commence in the coming months, including exclusive previews, briefings, and personalised consultations for interested buyers.
Eastern & Oriental Berhad (E&O), in partnership with Japan’s leading real estate company, Mitsui Fudosan Group, has officially launched Conlay Signature Suites, the second and final phase of its landmark Conlay development.
Developed on 1.44 acres of freehold land, the project comprises two phases, with the initial phase titled Conlay Residences and the higher second phase, Conlay Signature Suites. The development is positioned across the uppermost floors of the 51-storey tower, offering discerning buyers a refined collection of 194 residences, with built-ups ranging from 635 to 3,617 square feet, in 1-bedroom to 3+1-bedroom penthouse configurations.
Priced between RM 1.52 million to RM 12 million, each unit is designed to take full advantage of unobstructed city views, golf course view and is fitted with premium finishes, exclusive fittings, and spacious layouts suited for modern cosmopolitan living. Under a build-and-sell concept, the Conlay Signature Suites are delivered fully furnished and in move-in condition to ensure a seamless ownership experience.
Kok Tuck Cheong, Managing Director of E&O Berhad said, “The Conlay Signature Suites represent the culmination of our vision for the project, an elevated lifestyle offering, in every sense of the word. This launch reaffirms our belief that there is still strong appetite in the market for well-located, thoughtfully designed homes that offer not just quality, but distinction”.
Crafted by the internationally acclaimed Kerry Hill Architects, in partnership with award winning GDP Architects and with landscape design by Seksan Design, Conlay by E&O has a Gross Development Value (GDV) of RM 968 million and combines timeless resort-inspired design with urban sophistication.
Market response to Conlay by E&O has been encouraging. To date, Conlay Residences has been fully sold, while the newly introduced Signature Suites has already recorded a 40% take-up since its soft launch in May this year. This reflects sustained demand for well-conceived, high-end residences in Kuala Lumpur’s city centre.
Mr Masayoshi Saito, Managing Director of Mitsui Fudosan (Asia) Malaysia, added, “We take great pride in joining forces with E&O to bring Conlay to life, a project that exemplifies our shared dedication to delivering sophisticated urban living experiences.”
“This partnership combines Mitsui Fudosan’s global vision with E&O’s strong heritage in hospitality and design, creating a truly iconic address for discerning buyers in Kuala Lumpur” he said.
The Conlay by E&O is supported by an extensive suite of lifestyle and wellness facilities spread across Levels 11 and 36, including heated infinity pools, gymnasiums, themed communal spaces, a library, billiard and music rooms, and sky dining. A dedicated lifestyle and F&B level on the 50th floor further elevates the living experience.
Residents will also enjoy 24-hour on-demand concierge services, which includes access to a personal chef for private dinners, housekeeping, food and newspaper delivery, pre-arrival shopping, car hires, and basic unit maintenance services.
Kok added that a premier F&B brand is expected to open on Level 50 in the coming months.
To reflect E&O’s commitment to creating developments that are both luxurious and responsible, this project has received provisional GreenRE Gold certification. The project incorporates extensive sustainability measures throughout its design and construction, including energy-efficient fittings, natural ventilation systems, and environmentally certified materials.
Located within easy walking distance from the Conlay MRT station, the development enjoys seamless connectivity to Kuala Lumpur’s premier shopping and lifestyle precincts including Pavilion Kuala Lumpur, Bukit Bintang and KLCC.
“Every detail of the Signature Suites is inspired by our commitment to hospitality and craftsmanship. We believe the Conlay Signature Suites will appeal to those seeking both legacy and lifestyle,” said Kok.
