LIFESTYLE Every last Friday of the month

ON FRIDAY 24 JUNE 2011

Zen for zestBY IRENE LEONGIrene@thesundaily.com

IT was stress and ill health that drove me to attempt to fi nd my inner self and introduce healing elements into my life a few years ago. I craved comfort and sought respite from the energy-sapping realities of modern living but I couldn’t

possibly run away to seek refuge on some spiritual mountain in the Himalayas!

All I could do was create my own sanctuary: bring some zen into my private spaces and go holistic in my approach. I quickly grew to love peaceful, spiritual décor. With my old apartment, I went overboard, cluttering the living room with indoor fountains, celestial fi gurines, and all things bright and beautiful.

I’ve since learned to tone down and go for tasteful simplicity in achieving more balance and harmony. Today, my idea of private haven is still personal space beautifi ed by the presence of make-believe celestial beings and soft fairy lights, but less clutter defi nitely. Throw in air that is scented with essential oil and fi lled with uplifting, gentle spiritual music, and my scene of private spa is complete.

No doubt many urbanites are like me, wanting peace and quiet but knowing they cannot afford to cut themselves off from the world completely. People want the conveniences of this era of fast food and social networking, but they also long to reconnect with their origins and fi nd some inner peace.

Interior designers know this. At the recent Maison et Object design fair in Paris, the experts talked about the need for privacy and to be in touch with ourselves. It’s not just about decorating with furniture for visual appeal anymore; decorating styles today seek to light up the senses and create a wholesome ambience.

Trendwatcher Francois Bernard says interior decoration is “no longer about rows of pots and vases”. It has evolved in light of our need to be in touch with our emotions.

“Decorating up until now was very visual and memorial—for the past 20 or 20 years, we revisited the 18th century, then the 19th, then the 50s and the 70s, then we started all over again. But now design is clearly moving towards something that is more about emotions. Sound, electronics, are a full part of this new kind of decoration,” he says, referring to the importance of hi-fi innovations in our lives.

The book Interior Trends 2011 by IMM Cologne, says that people are questioning what they need to live well, and seek “products with personality” that will help bring balance to their lives.

Certainly like suggested by Bernard, we can embrace technology and at the same time introduce elements that will soothe the senses in helping us achieve clarity of mind. We

> Decorating styles have evolved in light of our need to be in touch with our emotions

BY IRENE LEONG

IT is hardly surprising that Balinese style architecture and interior design are becoming increasingly popular the world over. With its cross cultural legacy, Bali inspires homeowners out to achieve a sense of fecundity in their private spaces. Whether it’s the Javanese-inspired water gardens or classic pavilions, Balinese themes calm the senses and evoke the most romantic of ideas.

The mention of Bali the island conjures up mystical images of tranquillity and rustic beauty, the perfect antidote to modern life stress. And never mind that Time magazine recently played up the issue of poor waste management in Bali, the island continues to draw them in: 2.5 million overseas tourists are expected this year, up from 2.3 million last year.

There are those who would want to visit Bali for the chance to party away into the night at such popular tourist stretches as Kuta but increasingly visitors are arriving in big numbers for a chance to commune with nature and for “spiritual enlightenment” – because naturally Bali is a hub for yoga practitioners.

The Balinese are Hindu, and spiritual tourism is supported by the Indonesian government, with temple tours and visits to traditional healers featuring in most tourist itineraries.

Such highlights as the recent Bali Spirit Festival have become global events, and Elizabeth Gilbert’s best-selling memoir Eat, Pray, Love, a journey of self-discovery that features a mystical encounter with a Balinese soothsayer, has only added to the allure of Bali.

It helps too that yoga has grown in terms of global impact; the global yoga industry is estimated by the Yoga Journal to be worth USD18 billion (RM54.52 billion) and the World Health Organisation reports that some 70% of the world’s population uses alternative medicine.

According to an AFP report, today’s new-age yogis “wander the world, staying in luxury hotels and preaching to the masses using headset microphones”.

Perceptions of yoga have changed thanks to globalisation and more open mindsets; it is today a social buzz, and is as much about keeping fi t as it is entertainment.

Fast-and-furious 21st century lifestyles are

ironically also making people reassess their lives and think spiritual thoughts in their effort to improve their quality of life.

A new study in the US reveals that more and more American doctors are recommending that their patients take up yoga, tai chi, meditation, and deep breathing.

More than 6.3 million Americans use mind-body therapies based on a referral from their physicians while another 34.8 million adopt these on their own, or so reports a Harvard University study published last month.

From America to Hongkong to Bali, the focus is on refreshing the spirit in rejuvenating the mind and body.

Three days ago at New York’s Time Square, yoga and meditation practitioners took part in a yoga festival to “fi nd tranquility and transcendence in the midst of the urban energy of the world’s most commercial and frenetic place”.

Likewise in Hongkong two weeks ago, Evolution Asia brought together yoga enthusiasts worldwide to engage in such enlightening sessions as spiritual cleansing and body balance.

Indeed, for the restless soul, the world of wind chimes, frangipanis and Bali awaits.

TRANQUILLITY FOR THE RESTLESS … Balinese-themed resorts such as Four Seasons Resort Bali provide the perfect setting for those seeking peace of mind in a hectic world.

Soul-searching Balinese-styleAFP

PIX

NEW AGE THERAPY: Some styles serve to light up the senses and create a wholesome ambience.TURN TO PAGE S12 �

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interiorS02 the Sun • Urban LifestyleON FRIDAY, JUNE 24, 2011

Personalised urban chic> Clean lines and the colour white bring about clarity of mind

THESE personal spaces are such a breath of fresh air, being easy on the eye in terms of décor and colour scheme. Simple lines and

a neutral palette combine to present a home that embodies the ultimate in urban chic.

Trendy decorative pieces dot the place but somehow there is no pretension anywhere; every corner exuding cosiness, warmth, and light-hearted airiness.

Tasteful simplicity is refl ected in some details such as the transparent chairs in the living room, and the balcony where space is cleverly utilised to create a place for privacy.

The open concept in layout gives the impression of spaciousness, no doubt aided by the dominant colour of white. The designers from Sense Design & Renovation have evidently created a stylish, comfortable environment every

urbanite would love to call home. Sense Design & Renovation can be

reached at sensedesign.renovation@gmail.com or call 012-2122009.

Source: iN Publishers are the publishers of such magazines as iN design and

Creative Home that are available in leading newsstands and bookstores. For more

details, check out www.iNpublishers.com.

Clockwise from top:Clean lines and the colour white characterise the kitchen;

Space in the balcony is cleverly utilised to create a private corner for refl ection and contemplation; and

Trendy with an air of light-heartedness ... the living room beckons.

Iconic builder in Mah SingAPTLY for a company that positions itself as “premier lifestyle developer”, Mah Sing Group Bhd is making a strong impact with its projects that are as revolutionary as they are innovative.

It is perhaps only right that the term “icon” should feature in the names of a couple of its developments—namely Icon City in Petaling Jaya, and Icon Residence in Mont Kiara—iconic as they are in terms of architecture and design concept.

From Kuala Lumpur (with such projects as M-City) to Cyberjaya (Garden Residence) to Penang (Southbay), Mah Sing Group is no doubt helping to redefi ne urban lifestyles with its bold ventures, along the way becoming one of the fastest growing property developers in the country.

The group is optimistic of hitting RM2 billion in sales by the end of this year, 70% more than last year and the highest on record. Surely things can only get better, and growth continues to be emphatic.

theSun gets Mah Sing Group Bhd managing director and chief executive Tan Sri Leong Hoy Kum, and Mah Sing Properties Sdn Bhd chief operating offi cer Teh Heong Chong to share their thoughts.

What are the most crucial goals for the company during this period of strong growth? What are the long term achievements that will help the company stamp its mark in Malaysia and beyond, bearing in mind that the group aims to be a world-class regional developer?

LEONG:Mah Sing enjoyed an excellent year in 2010, recording many “fi rsts”. We broke the RM1 billion sales mark, registering RM1.5 billion, and for the second consecutive year exceeded our initial target by 50%. Sales were strongly driven by three residential launches, namely our Residence series in Greater KL such as Garden Residence in

Cyberjaya and Perdana Residences 2 in Selayang, Lagenda series in Penang, M Series at Jalan Ampang, and two i-Parc series.

We will continue our strategy of acquiring landbank in mature locations for our niche products and focus on acquiring sizeable, strategic lands to continue our expansion plans. We foresee that we are able to exceed our sales target of RM2 billion for 2011. Our sales achievement as of May 13, RM975 million, already covers almost 49% of 2011’s sales target.

Our strong branding and track record of being able to consistently produce quality products, good services, and generate innovative products in terms of concept and product mix were factors that had strengthened the buyer’s confi dence in us. From being a small-time property developer with merely four projects in 2004, we have grown from strength to strength over a span on six years.

Part of the success of Mah Sing is due to the fact that the group is among the most diversifi ed property players in the market, offering products in various segments. What else can the public expect from the group in this respect?

LEONG: We are so diversifi ed because we see a market need and we want to capture the market need (and trends) as it comes. It is the signature of our business strategy and I do not think there are any other developers like us who offer something for every market—residential, commercial, to industrial.

At the end of May 2010, we have 34 projects of which fi ve have been completed with 22 ongoing and seven under planning. We want to create a neighbourhood where people do not

Leong, seen here in front of a Garden Residence unit, says Mah Sing Group Bhd has “grown from strength to strength over a span of six years.” TURN TO PAGE S10 �

S03theSun ON FRIDAY | JUNE 24, 2011

BY DATUK TEO CHIANG KOK

TO the uninitiated, it does take a bit of thinking to rationalise that buying counterfeit goods is tantamount to acquiring stolen property. We have been conditioned to readily pay for goods and services especially when the exchange is tangible and we know how to perceive and value the transactions. However when it comes to intellectual properties, for example, songs, fi lms and computer programmes, the perception of values is more discerning. So when one buys a fake handbag or a pirated video disc, one is actually stealing the intellectual property of the designer, artist, or author.

As Malaysia is a member of the World Trade Organisation (WTO), we are bound by the Convention for the Protection of Intellectual Properties. In this respect, our Ministry of Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs have the responsibility to enforce such obligations.

Taking advantage of this WTO obligation, increasing numbers of private companies have mushroomed as self-styled royalty collecting agents for intellectual property owners. Due to the trusting nature of consumers, these companies have been able to collect millions of ringgit purportedly in the form of royalty levies. In collaboration with the ministry they have been raiding and enforcing the collection of royalties. Requests by the private sector for these self-styled collecting agents to be transparent and to show proof of their legal rights to represent the intellectual property owners and to collect royalties on their behalf

have been denied. The Copyright Act has stipulated that rights to represent and collect royalties must be by way of respective written agreements between the intellectual property owners and the collecting agents.

Calls by the business community to these collecting companies to upload onto the Internet all their repertoire of

intellectual properties they are acting for so that the public can check if they are infringing any rights, have also been denied.

By denying consumers this right to information, these self-styled collecting companies are allowed to continue to operate unfettered and with impunity, and they continue to operate under a shroud of secrecy and covertness.

This unfettered operating environment has made this royalty collecting business so lucrative such that we have now four such self-styled companies purportedly collecting for music authors, lyricists, performers, and most recently for compilation of songs.

For all their enthusiasm to collect royalty payments, yet there have been complaints from supposed clients, namely artists and performers, that they have not been paid their dues or are paid meager amounts of royalties by these collecting companies.

The business community has no qualms about paying royalties where they are due and legitimate. However we feel particularly aggrieved when such impositions are levied without proper due process and in

propertyS04 the Sun • Urban LifestyleON FRIDAY, JUNE 24, 2011

TURN TO PAGE S08 �

VOICE OF

Good response to food heaven> The commercial centre will be a vital catalyst for Dataran Kemuning Senawang

BY WILLY WILSON

Dataran Kemuning Senawang, a development

in Seremban that will set a new benchmark in the F&B industry, has received overwhelming response from buyers. Within two months of its offi cial launch, almost all 55 shop units have been sold, exceeding the expectations of the developer, LTS Properties (M) Sdn Bhd.

It is with good reason that LTS managing director C. A. Lau (pix) believes the development that spans fi ve acres of land, will become a major leisure hub in Seremban. The units are priced RM550,000 for a two-storey unit, and RM700,000 for a three-storey unit, and Lau describes these as “reasonably priced considering that the development is on a freehold land”.

“I believe that Dataran Kemuning Senawang offers competitive and value-for-money investment opportunities, especially considering the fact it is the last commercial project that is built on freehold land in Seremban,” says Lau, adding that there will be a commercial centre at the heart of the project.

“LTS Properties is going to build a commercial centre in the middle of Dataran Kemuning Senawang. A dedicated building with at least four major outlets, the commercial centre is slated to attract established F&B

operators in the country. And unlike the shop units, the commercial centre is wholly owned and managed by LTS Properties.”

Boasting leading edge architecture, the commercial centre will be a vital catalyst for the food heaven, says Lau, adding that his company is in the midst of negotiations with major F&B operators such as Bangi Kopitiam, Papa Rich, Old Town Kopitiam, and Marrybrown.

Lau talks about the “strong potential and exceptional value” of the development, saying the “wide frontage and walkways, as well as contemporary design of each unit are major selling points that would allow the owner to set up attractive alfresco-style F&B outlets”.

The term “food heaven” coined by LTS Properties has already created much buzz for the development. “It’s the fi rst and only integrated food destination in Seremban and it is part of a concentrated effort in urbanising Seremban. I believe Dataran Kemuning Senawang will contribute signifi cantly to the development of the town,” says Lau, adding that LTS Properties has been working closely with the relevant authorities, namely the Tourism Ministry and the Investment Department of

Counterfeits, copyrights and royalties

Mentri Besar Incorporated (MBI), to promote the development.

“LTS Properties, with the support of the authorities, plans to hold a gathering for F&B operators. The aim is to introduce to these F&B operators the business potential in Senawang,” Lau reveals.

Following the arrival of multinational companies such as Samsung, Nippon and On Semiconductors, Seremban has become a bourgeoning state capital with a promising future. This economic improvement, according to Lau, is the major drive behind Seremban’s rapid urbanisation.

Senawang’s largest shopping complex, Giant reportedly sees 300,000 customers a month, and the number of visitors is a refl ection of how the purchasing power of the local market is growing along with the economy, says Lau.

“There are 53 housing estates within a 5km radius of Dataran Kemuning Senawang, and this provides a valuable base for

business for the investors in this complex. These estates have approximately 30,000 households,” Lau explains.

Located within Taman Kemuning, Dataran Kemuning is also well connected to Seremban and other major towns like Paroi, Port Dickson and Kuala Pilah. Thanks to the excellent inter-city transportation networks such as North–South Expressway, and the recently completed Senawang and Sungai Gadut commuter stations, travelling to and from Senawang is very convenient.

“The government health clinic next door would provide an added boost for returns. In summary, if you run a business in Dataran Kemuning Senawang, not only can you market your products and services to the increasingly urbanised Seremban households, but also the residents of surrounding towns,” Lau adds.

Other developments by LTS Properties in Seremban include Taman Kemuning Senawang and Taman Tunku Ja’afar.

A street view of Seremban’s future hub for food and leisure.

S05theSun ON FRIDAY | JUNE 24, 2011

local activities can be simultaneously loaded to the gadget for immediate con-sumption by the tourist.

In public transportation, the HMP100 can be connected to a GPS to provide coordi-nates. Uploading of content can be done via wireless or 3G broadband connection when the public transport stops at a sta-tion.

In the education sector, the HMP100 is replacing the traditional notice board in publishing the latest information across the campus or school. Broadcasting of important urgent messages can be easily done through a web interface. All information is controlled and updated by the school management.

To fi nd out more about the Spinetix HMP100, contact EOM Sales Sdn Bhd at 03 7805 5500 or email idea@eom.com.my.

The gadget can also be viewed at the Malaysia International Sign, LED & Neon Technology & Equipment Exhibition cur-

rently on at the Putra World Trade Centre (till June 26). EOM occupies booths 2053 and 2074.

digitalS06 the Sun • Urban LifestyleON FRIDAY, JUNE 24, 2011

Motorsport photographer at home with Nikon BY YEE JIE MINjiemin.yee@thesundaily.com

THERE is little doubt that Jerry Ch’ng’s job is his hobby. Immortalising

special moments, he says, is his passion and something that he lives for. The offi cial photographer for Sepang International Circuit (SIC) says he “lives and breathes photography” and that it is in his blood.

“Photography is my way of showing others what my eyes see and to relive the moment over and over again,” Ch’ng says, and surely with his stock of pictures, it is easy to see the joy he derives from his work.

Ch’ng is understandably also passionate about the tools he uses for his trade. Not surprisingly he is a Nikon brand user, and one who is proud that he is able to produce “spectacular photos with Nikon D7000, a consumer grade camera”.

“The D7000 has my seal of approval as it has lived through a real life scenario and proved itself as a quality camera,” Ch’ng says of his trusty companion. The beauty of the camera, he adds, is that it takes little effort to learn how to use, so one is able to focus instead on composing and capturing the shot. He fi nds the camera’s auto mode particularly reliable, and he likes its lightweight body.

“My use of the D7000 was almost accidental,” he recalls. “I needed a replacement body during a shoot and the D7000 was all I could get. I heard of many interesting stories about the D7000 but never got to try it. When the chance arrived, I explored the camera with real life subjects that I didn’t normally do and

> Produces spectacular photos with Nikon D7000, a consumer grade camera

A picture of a motorsport event taken by Ch’ng who has no qualms about using a consumer grade camera for professional shots, specifi cally if the camera is a Nikon D7000. Left: Ch’ng says, “Photography is in my blood.”

surprisingly, the D7000 didn’t fall behind. Instead it kept on producing great footage… one after another.”

As his confi dence grew, Ch’ng mounted a telephoto lens and went with the D7000 during a race. He says it kept producing spectacular footage and it wasn’t long before he “started feeling right at home with it”.

“Although the burst rate wasn’t as fast, I always managed to nail the shots I needed. And the last thing I needed was to examine the results on my computer to get the fi nal verdict; I found the colour and sharpness all top notch. All the shots were good with 16 mega pixel quality.”

Ch’ng says he would recommend photographers to mount the D7000 with quality lens and “you are set to a whole new adventure!”

“Try the new Nikon 18-200mm VR II lens

with the D7000 and you will not be let down,” he says, adding that those with an open mind to learn would discover new things.

Cameras today are designed to minimise the learning curve and emphasise more on usability. “Gone are the days where you have to learn the photography processes before you start taking photos,” Ch’ng says.

Ch’ng became involved in professional photography in 2003 when he had the opportunity to attend a few SIC events. He passed to SIC the pictures that he had taken at the events and it wasn’t long before SIC invited him to photograph their local races. Ch’ng covered one motorsport event after another, and another, and soon his coverage went beyond Malaysia to the rest of Asia.

This led to his career as offi cial photographer for SIC and many other events such as the

Asian Festival of Speed, and Aston Martin Asia Cup. The exposure he enjoyed at these events led to even more opportunities to photograph prestigious motorsport events around Asia, including Formula 1, MotoGP, SuperGP, China Touring Cars, and the Grand Prix of Macau. In the early days, he used the Nikon D200, and Nikon D2X. Today he also owns the Nikon D300 and Nikon D700.

Apart from motorsports, Ch’ng likes nature photography, saying he enjoys “taking pictures of the essence of mother nature such as landscapes, wildlife, and fl ora and fauna”.

For more information on Nikon cameras, log on to www.nikon.com.my or visit the Nikon Centre located at Berjaya Times Square. You can also stay updated through their Facebook page.

Versatility in digital signageTHE SpinetiX HMP100 is arguably the most versatile gadget available in the digital signage market, serving every need and meeting various requirements.

Recently, the SpinetiX solution was installed in a mosque near Jalan Duta, serving as a public information display for Muslims during prayer. On top of that, videos are directly streamed from a camera within the mosque, capturing the imam while he interprets mes-sages from the Quran. The content is up-loaded wireless and broadcast through fi ve liquid crystal displays (LCDs) throughout the mosque.

Another fi eld where it is used is factory automation for production application. Previ-ously, workers would refer to a manual board to understand where and how to fi x parts. This was later replaced by LCD monitors and the manual converted into soft copy. SpinetiX has revolutionised the way this process is carried out. It helps in tracking the quantity involved and when the current model has been fulfi lled, it automatically changes the manual for a new model for different stations.

SpinetiX can also be used in a hotel environment where handy infor-mation such as tourist hotspots, weather information, tourist information, cur-rency exchange rates, and

The small-size gadget packs a powerful punch, catering to different needs in

different markets.

BY WILLY WILSON

TODAY’S globalised market requires a more integrated strategy that enables companies to organise, automate and synchronise business processes with lightning speed. This is where customer relationship management (CRM) comes into play. For the uninitiated, CRM is as a technology-driven strategy designed for companies to interact with customers and potential customers.

David Teh (pix), managing partner of JD Molecule Sdn Bhd is only to keen to open people’s eyes to the concept. “CRM is essentially a strategy to learn more about customers in order to develop stronger relationships with them. It helps companies gain insights into market trends and subsequently helps them to modify their business operations to ensure their customers are served in the best way possible,” Teh explains.

Although CRM has become an integral part of the business world, Teh is quick to point out that the adoption of CRM is often costly and redundant.

“It isn’t uncommon that companies invest alot of money in CRM applications only to fi nd out that some technological features aren’t necessary for them,” he says. According to him, in order for CRM to be truly effective, a company must fi rst decide on the kind of information it is seeking for, the objective of acquiring such information, and following that, campaign planning.

JD Molecule’s web-based CRM applications can be adjusted to the needs of a company. The system is aptly named CRMonthenet. “We offer web-based CRM applications that can function based on users’ needs. We came up with this idea because we realised the diversity of needs among users. For example, a car manufacturer and a fashion retailer may require different CRM systems,” Teh says.

CRMonthenet leverages on the cloud computing platform. It is a one-stop platform that takes care of every CRM need, from customer contact information, activity log, daily appointments, reminders, down to sales tracking, and marketing campaign monitoring. Customer contact information is stored on the cloud and is accessible anytime and anywhere. Its fl exibility means the CRMonthenet doesn’t require any software installation. The subscription-based service is charged per user.

“It runs like an email account but is equipped with advanced CRM applications accessible online. What it means is that users don’t have to install or download any software. No dedicated hardware is needed either,” he explains.

To further enhance the benefi ts of CRM, JD Molecule also offers companies a holistic service that includes data management, call centre, direct marketing, and hyper media marketing.

For details, call 603-6141 6018 or visit www.crmonthenet.com

CRM for better customer service

S07theSun ON FRIDAY | JUNE 24, 2011

BY YEE JIE MINjiemin.yee@thesundaily.com

T hat Malaysians love to eat and even live to eat, is clear for all to see. We often hear people say we start planning what to eat for dinner even when lunch isn’t

over, and that’s because food rightly plays a very big role in our culture.

The good people of Standard Chartered no doubt recognise that dining is no small matter in Malaysia—and that eating out is a very serious affair indeed. The bank now offers a very attractive deal to its customers: its 25% CashBack Dining Promotion that should give them all a good reason to dine out!

All Standard Chartered Bank cardholders are eligible for the cashback provided they register through SMS and spend a minimum of RM1,500. The two-month campaign which started earlier this month is till July 31. And the bank expects to see good response.

“This is the second year we are doing this campaign and it is more powerful as we have increased the cashback to 25% from last year’s 20%, and have also increased the amount of participating merchants to more than 1,000,” says Standard Chartered Retail Banking Products general manager Anupam Shrivastava.

“We brought in this campaign because dining matters to our consumers and when

you understand the consumers, they will bank with you. We want to bring different fl avours to dining as we go forward as it is an important aspect of our strategy to keep communicating with our consumers,” Anupam says.

The unique selling point of the campaign is that consumers can dine anywhere and be rewarded through their Standard Chartered Bank credit or debit cards. “It is a campaign that catches a large consumer base and although some may dine more often than others, this is an open programme with no hidden rules. Just dine and be rewarded,” says Anupam.

He adds that the dining campaign is part of the bank’s plan to move towards consumer banking where their main focus is consumer-centred, with campaigns that cater to the consumers’ needs. So far, Anupam says, the bank has received positive feedback—a sizeable number of consumers have enjoyed the cashback promotion that has been done in various markets in Southeast Asia.

“Consumers also gain double rewards during the campaign where they get 25% cashback on top of reward points every month. We want to bring lots of opportunities to our consumers—where they can be rewarded when they dine with their family or celebrate birthdays and anniversaries. This is part of the services we provide to our consumers,” says Anupam, who adds that the campaign creates value for consumers.

leisureS08 the Sun • Urban LifestyleON FRIDAY, JUNE 24, 2011

Dine and be rewarded

Anupam: “The campaign creates value for the customer.”

“This is how we engage with our consumers in a big way and enrich their experience with us. In the end, we want consumers to feel that we brought value to them that they can enjoy.

“Banking is all about experience and we have increased our consumer approach by expanding our Malaysian Electronic Payment System (MEPS) network, online platform and customer-centred services signifi cantly,” says Anupam, adding that the bank also has other dining privileges for its cardholders that run throughout the year.

He says the credit card is an important aspect of a person’s purchase pattern.

“Customers use cards that bring value to them and the cashback campaign is part of our value proposition, and that is the way forward. It has to mean something to the customer. When customers see value, they would want to have a credit card, and we hope our initiatives will give people a reason to choose Standard Chartered. If you meet their needs, consumers will stay with you.”

To register, SMS GET25<space>16-Digit Card Number and send to 33310. For example: GET25 5520123456789000. For more information, log

on to www.standardchartered.com.my

> The cashback amount has increased to 25% and more than 1,000 merchants are involved in the promotion

Copyright commission should be set upa transparent manner. With the passing of amendments of the Consumer Protection Act to further empower the rights of the consumers, we trust that the government will intervene and ensure these royalty collecting companies will operate in a transparent and accountable manner and ensure consumers are fairly and equitably treated and protected. The ministry is charged with the role of enforcement under the act. In collaboration with these collecting companies, the enforcement has been most enthusiastically and uncharacteristically carried out. Not only are purveyors of fake goods brought to court but there were instances where such copyright collecting companies commenced civil actions against landlords for their tenants’ infringement of copyright on the basis that the landlord was aiding and abetting the tenant.

Unless the particular landlord is proven to be involved in the business of the tenant, this roping in of the landlord is cavalier and outrageous.

Landlords are by tenancy laws required to give tenants quiet enjoyment of their leased premises. They are not armed with the power or means of enforcement especially in dealing with businesses that operate on the fringes of the law. It is preposterous that they are expected to conduct surveillance and spy on their tenants although they are not equipped to do so.

Attempts have been made to amend the act to make landlords criminally responsible for the tenants’ misdemeanour. This is outrageous and draconian, and completely unacceptable. This is tantamount to the government abdicating their role and responsibility in enforcing the law and an admission that they themselves cannot successfully nab the actual culprits and guilty parties.

All over the world the business in fake goods is enormous. In simple economics, it is the result of demand and supply, and consumers perceive as good value buys. Even citizens and tourists from developed countries are often keen buyers of fake goods whenever they travel.

Valuation of intellectual property being intangible is arbitrary and also market driven. The difference in prices between genuine and fake goods is so wide that it is reasonable to conclude that the imbedded copyright content is exorbitant. This exorbitant charge can only be sustained through the protection afforded through the copyright laws and active enforcement This protective environment inadvertently leads to the creation of a monopoly or oligopoly situation that results in the possibility of excessive profi teering.

To combat this, original products must be priced reasonably and consumers are comfortable to pay the premium for the guarantee of quality and after sales service. Excessive premiums in a protected environment is tantamount to abated and legalised profi teering. This situation of fl eecing the consumer cannot be condoned.

The business community has called upon the ministry to establish a copyright commission to license and regulate these royalty collecting agents and ensure that they are genuine and indeed have been legally appointed by the intellectual property owners to collect on their behalf. The business community hopes that this commission will be established as soon as possible before the mushrooming of these self-styled collecting companies gets out of hand and cripples the legitimate business environment.

Datuk Teo Chiang Kok is a past president of FIABCI Malaysia.

�FROM PAGE S04

S09theSun ON FRIDAY | JUNE 24, 2011

BY WILLY WILSON

FOR homeowners getting a new house furnished or an existing one refurbished, a tedious undertaking is in store. Among

others, it means lots of shopping hours checking out various options, and the sensible shopper would want to explore as many stores as possible to arrive at the best decisions. An exciting task but a daunting one nevertheless, especially if a new house or apartment is involved.

What to do? Why, seek out a place like Viva Home, of course, and for good reason. This is a one-stop centre for homeowners seeking inspiration—and the best bargains around. A mall dedicated entirely to home-related products and services, Viva Home has some of the best home retailers around under one roof.

“This is a one-stop centre for customers looking for home-related products and services,” says Viva Mall Sdn Bhd assistant general manager Carrie Kon. “From furniture to bathroom fi ttings, DIY tools to kitchen accessories, to kids’ furniture, Viva Home offers a great range for every taste and budget. Customers can also seek professional advice from the numerous interior design fi rms operating here.”

Spanning 660,000 sq ft, Viva Home occupies a building that was previously known as Plaza Uncang Emas three (UE three). According to Kon, Viva Mall Sdn Bhd had invested a total of RM280 million to set up Viva Home, including RM100 million for land acquisition.

The company, which operates under the umbrella of Kha Seng Group, is also putting an effort in providing accessibility to the mall. Apart from building a sheltered pedestrian bridge that connects the mall to Miharja LRT station, Viva Mall Sdn Bhd is also actively involved in constructing a direct road accessible from Jalan Cheras.

Kon explains that accessibility is key when it comes to retail business. It is especially crucial for Viva Home, for it aims to attract shoppers from not only the Klang Valley, but beyond.

“Viva Home caters to folks residing around the neighbourhood and the Cheras catchment area. But it is our ultimate goal to reach a wider market,”

says Kon, adding that the centre is positioned as a neighbourhood mall.

Since soft opening on April 15, the fi ve-storey mall has seen an occupancy rate of 65%. And given the growing public enthusiasm, Kon is optimistic that the occupancy rate of the mall would reach 90% soon.

It is common knowledge that a successful mall combines good location, design and function. But Kon says this mantra isn’t suffi cient to win the competitive retail and property business in Malaysia.

“Focusing on a specifi c segment is crucial in winning the market. In the case of Viva Home, the target is clear: the middle- and upper-middle

class looking to buy home-related products and services,” she explains.

It is no wonder then that the range of brands available in Viva Home mainly caters to this market segment. Here, shoppers can fi nd such brands as Lorenzo, Star Living, Bina Warehouse, Kitchmate, Home’s Harmony, Getha, Vilano, and Cosway. Shoppers seeking antique items can check out Oriental Treasure which occupies a spacious corner on the fi rst fl oor and specialises in Chinese furniture. For those looking for electronic items, the ICT Zone on the third fl oor promises variety and value for money.

There is inspiration to be found even in the restrooms, it seems. “If you are looking for design inspiration,” says Kon, “check out the restrooms in the mall. Each restroom features a specifi c design concept such as modern contemporary and Japanese-inspired theme.”

In conjunction with its grand opening, there is the Viva Home My Dream House Contest that gives shoppers a chance to vie for the four prizes in store, each worth almost RM20,000.

“For every RM200 spent on a single receipt between May 27 and July 10, shoppers stand a chance to win four lucky draws. Each winner will be awarded with cash vouchers and products worth RM20,000 to decorate either a kitchen, a bedroom or a kid’s bedroom,” Kon explains.

For more information, call 603 9281 3888 or visit www.vivahome.com.my

shoppingS10 the Sun • Urban LifestyleON FRIDAY, JUNE 24, 2011

> A one-stop centre for homeowners seeking inspiration—and the best bargains

Best home retailers all under one roof

KON: “Our ultimate goal to reach a wider market.”

EVERYTHING UNDER ONE ROOF… Viva Home’s one-stop concept makes it a top choice among homeowners out to furnish or refurbish their homes.

have to leave that area to eat, shop, and work, hence our current projects such as Icon City and M-City feature F&B outlets, boutiques, offi ces, and residences.

We will maintain our focus on the local property market and continue to offer niche medium- to high-end residential, commercial and industrial (projects) to meet market needs. The group has a remaining gross development value (GDV) and unbilled sales of approximately RM14 billion from its 24 projects, and these should last the group for the next fi ve to seven years.

30 Jewels, the fi rst collection of Icon City, will soon be launched in Petaling Jaya. Please talk about the latest development where Icon City is concerned, and also about the most vibrant aspects of other projects. Out of the 34 on-going projects, what are the standout ones that will make the biggest statement for Mah Sing?

TEH:Icon City has since previewed its 30 Jewels consisting of 30 units of premium seven- to eight-storey shop offi ces. To date, 19 units out of 30 units have been taken up with an average price of between RM7.7million and RM10million per unit. Next we are looking to launch the preview of the small offi ce versatile offi ce (SoVo) early next month, which are priced between RM700,000 and

RM900,000. Another development is M-City on Jalan

Ampang which features one-of-a-kind Garden City Living. Sitting on 4.9 acres of land, M-City’s concept defi es the usual grounds of property architecture, with six thematic hanging gardens spanning over four acres at certain levels.

Residents can also enjoy the facilities of the three-tier skyclub which will have an infi nity pool, grand gym and indoor squash court. Incorporating three towers, M-City introduces four unique components, namely residential suites, designer SOHO, Sky Villas, and three-storey boutique shops, making M-City a city to live, work, and play.

We are also working on our lifestyle development, Southbay in Penang, located two minutes’ away from the Second Link Bridge which is due for completion in 2013.

Lagenda@Southbay features 26 units of high-end resort bungalows in a gated and guarded community. True to its modern concept, each home will be fi tted with home automation features and intelligent security. Each home is also equipped with in-house lift for added convenience, especially for the elderly or disabled. It is a three-generation type of home.

Southbay City, the largest phase of the massive Southbay township, sits on a prime 34.5-acre site next to the sea. It aims to promote the breathtaking view of the sea through decks and balconies in the design. Southbay City features a mixture

of residential suites, offi ce suites, Grade A offi ces, retail outlets, hotel and resort, and other recreational attractions.

The fi rst phase, Southbay Plaza has been initiated, and next, two blocks of service apartments will be launched before the year ends.

Please share your thoughts about Mah Sing’s contributions toward society, particularly the Mah Sing Foundation that recently launched a programme in Penang.

LEONG: We want to give back to the neighbourhood where we are located in, and based on the feedback we have received, we will be focusing more on helping the education sector. The education aid encompasses subsidies and donations to deserving students in need. The foundation provides support to primary, secondary, tertiary, and postgraduate students towards their advancement of their respective education paths.

The foundation has been set up to receive and administer funds for purposes which fall within the spheres of medical, education, human relief, and nation building.

The group’s main objective is to behave ethically and to contribute to the economic development of the nation while improving the quality of life of our workforce, their families as well as the local community and society at large.

Giving back to society�FROM PAGE S02

Teh is seen here with a scale model of Icon Residence, soon to be an iconic landmark in Mont Kiara.

S11theSun ON FRIDAY | JUNE 24, 2011

wellnessS12 the Sun • Urban LifestyleON FRIDAY, JUNE 24, 2011

don’t have to be practitioners of yoga and meditation to appreciate what elements like zen decorating, essential oils, and spiritual new age music can do for us.

Basically, a “zen up” room comes in soft layers, and provides cosiness and warmth although it is an exercise in simplicity. Accents make a room unique, so a zen bedroom, for instance, must have its share of relaxing accessories.

Think of a tabletop fountain or some aromatherapy candles that will create a soothing visual impact. And the trick is to go for quality, not quantity.

Muted colours are ideally more suitable in achieving a zen look and perhaps an analogous colour scheme would work better for balance and harmony. This is a scheme based on colours that appear next to one another on the colour wheel.

My quest for healing moments at home has led to quite a vast collection of ambient music CDs; to me soothing atmospheric sounds are as important as visual décor when it comes to creating a spa-like atmosphere.

For some ideas of scents and ambient music for quiet moments, do remember to read the next Urban Lifestyle on July 29.

�FROM PAGE S01

‘Zen up’ room provides cosiness and warmth

BY YEE JIE MINjiemin.yee@thesundaily.com

EATING out is a great Malaysian pastime what with the huge variety of local dishes available and the fact that whatever time of day, food is easily

found. But a lot of the best loved Malaysian dishes that are starchy, fatty and salty, are not necessarily good for us especially in view of today’s typical sedentary lifestyle that means limited physical activity.

Not surprisingly, like the rest of the world, statistics show a local population that is increasingly heavier. More Malaysians than ever are becoming overweight or obese, increasing their risk of being stricken with lifestyle diseases such as diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease and cancer.

For those looking to lose some weight, it will be a challenge that demands great commitment and discipline. You have to maintain a positive attitude and be mentally strong in wanting to lose the weight and keeping it off.

In line with Caring Pharmacy’s weight care month in July, the pharmacy shares a few tips on how you can work your way to your ideal weight.

The fi rst thing you should keep in mind, says Caring, is food choice. Choose nutrient-fi lled foods or whole foods like fruits and vegetables, and whole grains like brown rice that have a lot of important nutrients such as vitamins, complex carbohydrates, and fi bre. Stay away from food items that are heavy in simple sugars and fat, like fast food, curries, fried food, and drinks with sweetened condensed milk.

Portions also need to be taken care of as certain cuisines such as banana leaf rice where it is all you can stomach, are always more than what you really need to eat. Choosing a smaller portion and chewing slowly, allows time for the digestive system to tell you when you are full.

The next step is exercise. Exercise will help burn off the calories that you take in and help shape a leaner, toned, and healthier body. It will increase muscle mass and may mean a slight weight increase which in the long run means more calories burnt and less to be stored as fat. Exercise 30 minutes daily to work out the day’s stress and break a sweat. Exercise also releases endorphins, making you feel good as you exercise to look great.

Lastly, remember to sleep. Sleep deprivation puts the brakes on metabolism, causing the body to use less energy. Sleep loss can result in weight gain, not just by boosting hunger but also by slowing the rate at which calories are burned the following day. Getting about seven to eight hours of sleep a night makes you rested and refreshed.

Those who want more insight on how to keep the weight off can seek out a pharmacist at Caring Pharmacy. The pharmacist on duty can assist you in looking for solutions that best suit you.

Caring is also conducting body weight, mass index, and body fat tests, at selected outlets. The body fat analysis will allow you to understand more about your own body fat composition and organ fat (visceral fat) content.

Start on the path to a healthier lifestyle by logging on to http://caring2u.com/ or visiting the Caring Pharmacy nearest to you.

> The pharmacy is conducting body weight tests at selected outlets

There is no substitute for exercise in the quest for a healthy lifestyle and a better quality of life.

AFP

PIX

Caring focuses on weight care