Malaysia, a land of friendly people and a nation blessed with natural wonders, welcomes you. Bordered by Thailand to the North and Singapore to the south, Malaysia also stretches across the Northern tier of Borneo to form the states of Sabah and Sarawak. With 4,800 km of coastline, Malaysia boasts some of the most beautiful islands and beaches in Asia. With the straights of Malacca on the west, the South China Sea to the east and the Andaman sea to the Northwest, an amazing number of these natural treasures lay nestled in tranquil bays and coves. Beneath the aquamarine waters lies a fascinating world of corals and marine life waiting to be discovered.     Langkawi World renowned Langkawi beckons with sun-kissed beaches, clear blue skies and marvels of nature. Langkawi is the largest of the multitude of islands that lie off the coast of Kedah state, in the northwest of Peninsular Malaysia. The island compromises a jeweled setting of 99 islands. Langkawi is a versatile holiday destination with world class infrastructure and facilities-a modern internation airport, excellent roads, state-of-art marinas, budget hotels to award winning luxurious resorts, superb golf courses and a host of recreational activities. Visitors arriving by sea will disembark at the jetty in the main town of Kuah. A large prominent statue of an eagle, situated at the popular Eagle square is visible from afar when approa-ching the island. Langkawi's idyllic beaches are a perfect setting for a fun-filled vacation. Tanjung Rhu Beach, 22 km north of Kuah, is fringed by casuarinas from which the beach gets its name. A perfect place for a picnic, this wide sandy beach offers unmat-ched pristine tranquility. The sunset here at dusk, in a blaze of orange and red is truly a spectacular sight. On the western coastline of Langkawi, lie the beaches of Datai, Kok, Burau Bay and Tengah. Enjoy a round of golf at the 18-hole course at Datai Bay and tee off against Langkawi's scenic backdrop. Those who which to spend their day at Burau Bay can enjoy horseback riding while visitors to Tengah Beach can hire a boat and go island hopping. Kok Beach is the location of Telaga Harbour Park, a marina-cum-resort with ample facilities. Cenang Beach is only 3km from the the Langkawi international Airport and is the most developed of the beach areas housing several luxury class hotels and dozens of budget chalets and restaurants. There are plenty of water sports avai-lable on this popular beach providing fun and excitement for all. Those who wish to be pampered with a relaxing massage amidst the lush backdrop of the rainforest, can head to the numerous spas on the island. With an attractive range of duty-free goods to choose from in Langkawi, shopping here is a real treat. From Pewter and Perfumes to liquor and leather, the attractive prices make shopping irresistible.

top

2008 FORMULA 1 TM SingTel Singapore Grand Prix - Circuit Overview   A Street Circuit Right in the Heart of Singapore The 2008 FORMULA 1 TM SingTel Singapore Grand Prix circuit has been specifically designed to take place right in the heart of one of the most dynamic and vibrant cities in the world. The circuit is just minutes from exclusive 5-star hotels, a vibrant and bustling food and entertainment scene, a fast and efficient underground service (the Mass Rapid Transit) and the Central Business District (CBD), which houses the regional headquarters of many of the major financial organisations. Positioned as the 'Monaco of the East' - Singapore is set to deliver an exciting and aspirational iconic event and certainly the most anticipated race of the 2008 Formula One TM season. First Night Race in Formula One TM An electric night-time atmosphere will deliver an amazing perspective on Singapore and its stunning cityscape. The later start time will ensure maximum exposure of the race in the important European television markets, while in Asia a late Sunday evening broad-cast ensures maximum market exposure. All Set for the Challenge Consistency of lighting around the track is the main objective - both for the safety of drivers, the public and to ensure the best viewing quality for a worldwide television audience. Utilising the best lighting specialist in the field, Valerio Maioli S.p.A., who comes with extensive knowledge spanning over 40 years - a bespoke state-of-the-art lighting system has been designed to deliver optimal visibility for night race conditions. The system minimises glare and reflections from a wet surface or spray from cars through lighting projectors which are strategically positioned around the circuit. The logistical set up is vast - 110,000m of power cables, 230 steel pylons, and approximately 1,500 light projectors with a total power requirement of 3,180, 000 watts will be used. At 3000lux levels, the lighting will be four times brighter than the lights at sports stadiums. As with any other Formula One TM race, systems are in place to ensure the safety of the spectators, drivers, and marshals. One of the Fastest Street Circuits - Not for the Faint-Hearted The track has been designed to give the drivers technical challenges while incorporating some of Singapore's most distinctive architectural and heritage features. Alongside Turkey and Brazil, Singapore will be one of only three anti-clockwise tracks on the calendar. 1.2km of new road and the permanent state-of-the art Pit Building are being constructed within a very tight timescale. The Singapore GP and government agencies are working and achieving in 18 months, what many Grand Prix organisers work for two years to create. A number of initial track concepts were created in association with the Singapore Tourism Board (STB). The detailed architecture and engineering is being handled by Kellogg, Brown and Root (KBR), a Melbourne-based architectural practice. They have lengthy experience of street circuit design going back to the creation of the Adelaide Grand Prix circuit which hosted the Australian GP in 1987.   Less Than Six Months to the Race To add to the excitement come September, three support races have been officially confirmed for the 2008 FORMULA 1 TM SingTel Singapore Grand Prix. Get set to be blown away by the adrenaline filled Aston Martin Asia Cup, Formula BMW Pacific and the Porsche Carrera Cup Asia. More details will be released closer to the date of the races. On race day, September 28, 2008, the drivers will take off from the start line to one of the fastest sections of the track - the wide Raffles Boulevard taking a 45 degree corner in 7th gear at approximately 300 km/h - definitely a unique corner among street circuits. The section of track along St. Andrews Road combines a high speed straight with a backdrop of some of the Singapore's heritage landmarks before the track sweeps onto the Anderson Bridge, a cast-iron bridge which is nearly 100 years old. Another high-speed straight across the modern Esplanade Bridge takes the track past contemporary Singapore icons such as the Theatres on the Bay and the Singapore Flyer which then leads the drivers back to the start line. The biggest difference between Singapore and the Monaco GP, another street circuit in the Formula One1 TMcalendar, is that the track is set to be much wider and faster. At 10 metres, the narrowest and slowest parts of the track - at the Anderson Bridge and the National Day grandstand - are equivalent to the widest parts of Monaco. Raffles Boulevard with its 300km/h "kink" and the sweeping left-hander onto St Andrews Road is certain to be an exciting driver's challenge. Keep an eye out for some excellent overtaking spots - most notably at the end of Raffles Boulevard and as the cars cross Esplanade Bridge and brake for the right-hander at the Theatres on the Bay.

top

Mr Cheng, Director of Global EAudio, has been in the business of AV systems since 1998. Has a passion for AV systems since growing up and now wants to share his inside knowledge about his success in the business... Cheng, Director 1. How many types of AV system brands do you carry? 4   2. What are the differences? Audica is from Cambridge, UK and it focuses on AV. LINN is from Glascow, Scotland and it focuses on AV & Home cinema Infinity is from the United States and it focuses on Speakers only Arcam is from UK as well and it focuses on home theater & music 3. Can you give examples as to how different brands vary? The brand Infinity and the model called Primus is one of the lower range American speakers that we carry. It is very well regarded in a popular stereo magazine called Stereophile, which is a leading magazine in the US and around the world. Its an excellent set of speakers and value for money. Audica is a british technology set av system; Alex Munro who was formerly the MD of the brand Tannoi, started Audica. Audica speakers have a combination of style and substance. The speakers are a well engineered product with excellent sound quality. Its satellite has a sleek design, looking like a shape of a teardrop. Its definitely cheaper than the leading brands and much better. The Audica - Micro series is catered more for business premises In the UK it is mainly marketed to designers and architects and it is packaged into a development or design of a house.   4. What is the unique selling feature of this business? Customer service and customer retention. 5. When did Global EAudio start its business? It started in 1998 in Singapore and then 2002 in Malaysia. 6. How did you start? When I was growing up, the only entertainment we had at that time was the radio and listening to music was a past time, which soon became a passion. I started working in the banking industry, then moved on to a hifi company. Working in a Hi-fi company, further enhanced my passion for hi-fi system and decided that it was a business opportunity before coming out on my own.   7. How many branches do you currently have? 2. 1 in Singapore and 1 in Malaysia. 8. What is the company direction for this year? Do more b2b businesses and need to reachout to non audio people and get them interested. Need to work more with architects and developers and increase networks with banks, credit card companies and the publishing industry as a whole. 9. What do you like about Malaysia and what do you think her strengths are? I especially like the people, who are open, sincere, and helpful; it doesn't matter what race. People here are more entrepreneur like. 10. Opinion about the MM2H program? The government should do a lot more to promote it but I think it is a great plan as Malaysia is a wonderful country to settle in. 11. Are there any areas in which you would recommend first time Malaysia dwellers? I would have to say East peninsular Malaysia as there are lovely beaches, friendly people and good local cuisine. Maybe you could also include Penang.   12. Overall what do you think of Malaysia's property sector? Properties are undervalued, appreciation is good but a lil late to go into right now. Removal of capital gain is good and foreigners still think things are affordable and the weather is kind.

top

	Sutera Harbour, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia - Sutera Harbour Resort, strategically showcased on the shores of the South China Sea with the majestic Mt. Kinabalu as its backdrop, is located just 10 minutes away from the Kota Kinabalu International Airport and 5 minutes into the city centre. Sutera Harbour Resort encompasses the 5-star accommodation of The Pacific Sutera, The Magellan Sutera and the world class facilities of the Sutera Harbour Marina, Golf & Country Club. Sutera Harbour Resort's status as a unique leisure attraction is augmented by its affiliation to the eco-resorts of the five Sutera Sanctuary Lodges, the North Borneo Railway vintage steam train and North Borneo Yachting luxury cruise charters. The Pacific Sutera permeates subtle elegance with its grand entrance, high ceiling lobby lounge, panoramic views of the sea and 500 immaculately appointed rooms and suites. Strategically located on the two uppermost floors of the hotel are the Pacific Club rooms. Pacific Club guests enjoy a wide range of facilities including business services as well as continental breakfast and complimentary evening cocktails at the Pacific Club Lounge, which offers a spectacular view of the South China Sea as well as the five islands of the Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park. The Magellan Sutera welcomes guests to its 456 rooms and suites with a captivating and grand "longhouse-style" lobby. The majority of its rooms feature private balconies where guests can take full advantage of the beautiful natural setting. For discerning guests the Magellan Club offers personalised butler and reception services and serves complimentary breakfast and evening cocktails in its private lounge. Sutera Harbour Resort houses two spas for guests to indulge in rejuvenating massage treatments, body scrubs and beauty therapies using natural herbs, flowers and spices – the two-storey Mandara Spa at The Magellan Sutera and Body Senses by Mandara at The Pacific Sutera. The meeting, conference and event facilities at Sutera Harbour Resort include a Grand Ballroom at The Pacific Sutera with the capacity to host 1000 guests theatre-style and 550 guests banquet-style and The Magellan Sutera's Grand Ballroom, which can accommodate 2000 guests theatre-style or 1400 guests banquet-style. There are 28 other function rooms throughout Sutera Harbour Resort. At the heart of Sutera Harbour Resort lies Sutera Harbour Marina, Golf & Country Club. The course is finished with Bermuda grass and strategically challenging bunkers of fine white Malaysian sand. Playing any combination of 18 holes, golfers will enjoy a par-72 six-thousand-metre course. Designed by leading golf designer Graham Marsh, Sutera Harbour Golf Club has garnered various awards of distinction. Most recently awarded are the awards of Malaysia's Best Golf Resort at the World Travel Awards 2006, Best Golf Attraction at the Sabah Tourism Awards 2005/2006 and Best Golf Resort Nationwide at the Hospitality Asia Platinum Awards 2005-2006. The 27-hole championship golf course is beautifully landscaped and provides a challenge for both amateurs and professionals alike. It was the host venue for the 1999 Sabah Masters, an Asian PGA Davidoff Golf Series and the Pharmaton Malaysian Ladies Amateur Open Championship 2005 & 2006. The Resort also offers night golf facilities - the only one in East Malaysia and one of the largest facilities in the country. There are a total of 20 holes lit for night golfing. Sutera Harbour Marina & Country Club also features a 12-lane bowling alley, children's club, chart room, fitness centre with sauna and Jacuzzi, 100-seat movie theatre, billiards room, outdoor and covered tennis courts, squash and badminton courts, and three outdoor pools. The deep-water marina is easily accessible and is protected year-round from extreme weather. It has 104 berths that can accommodate 13 mega yachts (up to 180 feet) and 91 smaller boats in fully serviced wet slips, available for short and long-term rental. A dry dock is available for dry storage of boats, as are launch and take out services as well as fuel jetty and pump out services. Facilities include 24-hour on-ground security, supply of electricity and fresh water, fire fighting facilities and wireless internet access. Sutera Harbour Resort is renowned for its innovative dining and entertainment experiences. With 14 restaurants and bars, of which The Pacific Sutera's Chinese restaurant, Silk Garden, and The Magellan Sutera's Italian fine dining restaurant, Ferdinand's, feature regularly on Malaysian best restaurant lists. Other outlets at The Pacific Sutera include Café Boleh, a 24-hour coffeehouse renowned for its weekend high tea spread; the Waves swim-up bar for fun relaxation by the pool and Jugs, an easygoing pub to unwind with a wide range of beverages. At The Magellan Sutera, stop by Al Fresco for an open-air concept restaurant featuring Mediterranean cuisine and a spectacular view of the pool and the sea. The Five Sails coffeehouse features local and continental cuisine in a wide spread of breakfast and dinner buffets. At Sutera Harbour Marina & Country Club, dine at Spice Island, a signature fine dining restaurant featuring Malay and Indian specialties which is the venue of choice for visiting royalty and dignitaries. The restaurant has been quoted by Flavours Magazine as "one of the best fine dining Malay restaurants in the country, if not the best" and was ranked top ten among the Best Malay restaurants nationwide at the Hospitality Asia Platinum Awards 2005-2006. Resort guests enjoy complete access and signing privileges at all dining, entertainment and recreational outlets within Sutera Harbour Resort. They are welcome to move around the 384- acre resort via the internal shuttle service or take a leisurely walk through the marina board-walk to the various outlets. From the marina, guests can hop on the ferryboats and visit the Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park islands just 15 minutes away by boat. Of these islands, Manukan island is the second largest and houses the excellent chalet accommodation of Manukan Island Resort, one of five eco-resorts co-managed with the Sabah Park authorities by Sutera Harbour Resort's sister company Sutera Sanctuary Lodges. Another unique leisure attraction affiliated with Sutera Harbour Resort is the North Borneo Railway, a vintage steam train service launched in partnership with the Sabah State Railway Department in honour of Kota Kinabalu achieving city status in February 2000. The North Borneo Railway takes guests on a 4 hour scenic journey through the coastal and rural regions of Sabah. Cruising its way into the forefront of promoting luxury yachting lifestyle in Kota Kinabalu, Sabah is North Borneo Yachting. Committed to providing visitors with a unique opportunity of experiencing Sabah aboard its impressive vessels, North Borneo Yachting specializes in per-sonal and group charters with customizable programs for any occasion. Situated in the heart of Kota Kinabalu and a mere 10-minute drive from the Kota Kinabalu International Airport, Sutera Harbour Resort is Asia's first fully integrated and complete lifestyle resort.

top

Mr. Chin Yi, General Manager From recessions to the vision of hospitals in the future to the state of the Malaysian medical scene, Mr. Chin Yi, General Manager of Group Corporate Communications and Business Development of Pantai Management Resources is a very insightful person, having to balance tradition sales and marketing techniques in the very strict medical industry. Here he gives his personal views on a couple of subject matters. 1) In your personal opinion, what can we do to improve the healthcare services in Malaysia? There is one immediate point that comes to mind, is that in general the government should try their utmost to provide Malaysian doctors with more incentives to come back to Malaysia. Currently, 80% of Malaysian doctors are in fact working in Singapore. On a personal note, I know of a few local doctors that would love to come back if the local medical packages were more attractive. 2) Going forward, what do you envision the future of the medical services industry? Well first of, I would love to see the hospitals giving less of that hospital feel and environment. At the moment, when you visit a hospital, it is very obvious that you are in fact in a hospital. Going forward I would like to see the hospital environment being more friendly and stacked with everyday things you would get out of the hospital, like Starbucks, Baskin Robbins, hot dogs etc. Also in the future, it would be really good to have a choice when you visit a hospital, for example if you were choosing a certain operation, not only would you have to choose the doctor but also maybe the equipment. Customers should always have multiple choices. 3) What is the state of medical science in Malaysia? And how does it compare with other countries? I would say that we provide really good value for money as compared with other countries, and publicity wise, we should be more aggressive like Singapore. 4) In terms of publicity, going forward, what should Malaysia be doing? At the moment, we are ba-rely scratching the surface when it comes to attracting foreigners. We should really be promoting Malaysia as a location for medical tourism and also have hospitals become more foreigner friendly. For example, if we want to attract middle easterners, we should really start to carter for their needs. It would be really good to start serving middle eastern food in our hospitals, which is what they do in other countries like Thailand. Also maybe have bigger wards for them, as they usually travel in a big family. 5) What do you like about Malaysia, and what do you think her strengths are? I think the general laidback and relaxed lifestyle is a very good selling point, as well as our good quality of living when compared to the cost. Our service industry is also improving all the time. There are obviously a few things that we could improve on, like our infrastructure and payment systems. For instance, there does not seem to be enough taxis in Malaysia and they will only take you during the non-peak hours. So how are foreigners suppose to travel around during the peak hours, my guess is between the hours of say 5 pm to 7 pm they will have to be stuck where they are. 6) In your opinion, apart from the Petronas KLCC Twin Towers, what other Malaysian building is memorable or iconic and why? I would have to say Pavilion. 7) Currently where do you reside and why? I live in Aman Suria. It is a really accessible and convenient location. 8) Are there any areas in which you would recommend first time Malaysia dwellers? Of course if they have the budget, I would recommend the KLCC area because of the close proximity to the interesting spots. 9) Overall, what do you think of Malaysia's property scene and the general economic outlook of the country? I would say that going future we would have to open up to the outside world more, as we will need foreign investors in order to continue growing. It would be very difficult for us to sustain our development alone.

top

	The Datai offers the weary urbanite any idyllic retreat to nature. Here, see, hear and feel nature at its pristine best as footpaths take you through centuries-old virgin tropical rainforest. And, if you like the sun and sea, a footpath leading through the jungle will take you to a white sand beach complete with swimming pool, changing rooms and watersports pavilion. All villas, suites and rooms have spectacular verandah views of the natural landscape. Be it the lush jungle or the shimmering Andaman Sea, with Tarutao Island in the horizon. Deluxe rooms are divided into two areas. The combined bedroom and living room contain a king-size bed, private bar and balcony, a writing desk, plus two day beds. The spacious bathroom and dressing room feature twin vanities, shower, toilet, bathtub and luggage space. Villas consist of individual free-standing suites built within the tropical rainforest and connected to public facilities by a series of pathways. In addition to the facilities of the deluxe rooms, villas feature a private deck with sun lounges and elevated verandah (these are being upgraded in stages and by December 2007, they will be known as Superior Villas). Superior Villas are renovated villas which offer larger interior space in both the living area and bathroom. These elegantly designed villas incorporate an oversized day bed, dining table for two, 37" LCD flat screen TV, DVD player, Bose CD sound system and Lavazza coffee machine. The extremely spacious bathroom includes an 8" rainfall shower, twin terrazzo vanities and his and her wardrobes. Corner and End Suites comprise a spacious bedroom with en suite bath and a living area with dining table. Every suite opens out to a spacious balcony. Pool villas are identical to villas plus each has its own plunge pool with built in jacuzzi and day bed. Pool Suites consist of free standing rooms similar to villas, connected to a spacious living and dining area with kitchen which is shared with one other villa. All four villas share a pool and a sunning terrace. The Datai Suite has two bedrooms, an expansive living and dining area, plus a fully equipped kitchen. A sandstone balcony encompasses the Datai Suite, pro-viding a panoramic view of the environs from every conceivable angle. All rooms have individually controlled air conditioning, humidity control, ceiling fans, satellite TV, hairdryers, international direct dial telephones and personal safes. Restaurants and Bars   The Pavilion Elevated amongst the rainforest, The Pavilion serves authentic Thai cuisine nightly in an open-air setting   The Dining Room Malaysian and Western cuisines for breakfast, lunch and dinner The Beach Club Alfresco dining at the beach Lobby Lounge Cocktails and snacks with panoramic views of the Andaman Sea     Recreational Facilities   Health Club with gym, massage, sauna, hot and cold plunge bath and juice bar White sand beach with water sports facilities includ-ing snorkelling, windsurfing and sailing. Boats can be chartered for island-hopping. Scuba diving and deep-sea fishing can be arranged offsite The 18-hole championship Datai Bay Golf Course is located adjacent to the hotel and has been carefully landscaped to blend in with the natural beauty of the tropical rainforest 2 tennis courts Jungle trekking 2 swimming pools Mountain bicycles available for guests' use

top