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New Straits Times
19 hours ago
- Business
- New Straits Times
Cost-saving, eco-friendly solution
PHOTOVOLTAIC solar energy systems allow us to generate our own electricity, significantly reducing electricity bills — and in some cases, eliminating them. In Malaysia, a photovoltaic solar system with a capacity of around 5 kW can produce up to 600 kWh of electricity per month, which is enough to cover 70 per cent to 100 per cent of a typical household's electricity needs. Once seen as a luxury only accessible to the wealthy, solar panels are now gaining traction among homeowners as a modern, eco-friendly, and cost-effective solution. For Saiful Nizam Abu Bakar, 44, the switch to solar energy began in August last year after years of paying around RM700 monthly for electricity to support a household of seven. Saiful said he received a RM4,000 rebate through a solar incentive scheme at the time and paid only RM23,000 to install 14 solar panels on his roof. "Although I have to pay RM300 in monthly instalments for five years (to finance the solar system), after that I no longer have to worry about electricity bills. My bill used to be RM700 a month — now it's just RM40," he said. Beyond rebates through solar incentive schemes, financing options from local banks help ease the initial cost of installing photovoltaic systems. Gan Yong Li, 38, said that the option to pay in instalments has made solar energy more appealing to the public. Like Saiful, he received a RM4,000 rebate and installed 10 panels on his home. "My electricity bill used to be nearly RM400 a month. Since installing solar panels, it has dropped to just about RM10 a month," he said. "Sometimes it goes over RM100 when I charge the car more often, but it's usually below RM100," he said. For Gan, one interesting aspect is that the maintenance cost of solar panels is minimal. They need to be cleaned only occasionally, and usually, the rain will wash away most of the dirt. SUSTAINABLE SOLUTION Meanwhile, senior lecturer and energy manager at Universiti Malaysia Sabah, Dr Wan Khairul Muzammil Abd Rahim, described solar energy as a smart choice, capable of reducing electricity bills by more than 90 per cent. "Financing options like solar leasing and zero upfront cost models make solar power more accessible," he said. He said solar technology costs in Malaysia have dropped by 30 per cent to 50 per cent over the past five years, thanks to advancements and increased competition. "Generating your own electricity also shields you from inflation. It's a proactive investment for an uncertain future," he added. More importantly, solar energy reduces reliance on fossil fuels like coal, thereby lowering carbon emissions and improving air quality. This shift aligns with Malaysia's goal of achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2050 in response to global climate change. | With rapid technological advancements, growing climate awareness, and rising living costs, solar energy is proving to be a highly worthwhile long-term investment. Supported by government incentives, substantial cost savings, and easy, affordable maintenance, there's no reason to wait. Visit or consult a certified solar photovoltaic system provider to take the first step toward a more sustainable energy future.
Hype Malaysia
4 days ago
- Entertainment
- Hype Malaysia
Vibe, Shop & Stand A Chance To Win Prize Worth RM10k At The Gardens Mall's Summer Grooves Fest!
Are you looking to experience a festival where fashion, art, and good vibes rule? Then get your Summer Grooves on at The Gardens Mall from now till 2nd August! Chill on beanbag chairs under a canopy of colourful ribbons, snap photos with a classic Kombi van, and be transported to a buzzing summer festival (minus the scorching sun!) – a perfect package of fun and comfort! Receive A Gift When You Shop Keep on grooving and recreate your own summer fest! Redeem an exclusive picnic mat when you spend a minimum of RM700 for Maybank cardmembers*/ The Gardens Club members, or RM800 for other payment modes in a single receipt** at any of the specialty stores in The Gardens Mall from now until 2nd August. *Applicable to Maybank Credit/ Charge Cards issued in Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia, Philippines, Cambodia and Brunei. **Limited to 120 redemptions per day. Terms and conditions apply. The fun doesn't end there! Spend a minimum of RM5,000 in a single receipt* to be one of the three lucky shoppers daily who will each get an invitation to the Summer Grooves Grand Finale event. Happening on 3rd August, it's your chance to win the Grand prize worth RM10,000! *Terms and conditions apply. Workshops Head over to the North Palm on the Ground Floor (near MCM) to express your creativity and personalise a little summer accessory in three workshops available every weekend from 19th July to 2nd August. Bag Charm Workshop 19, 20, 26 & 27 July, 2 August – 1pm – 2pm Keychain Personalisation 19 & 26 July, 2 August – 4pm – 5pm Phone Charm Workshop 20 & 27 July – 4pm – 5pm Terms & Conditions: Registration starts 30 minutes before the workshops begin. Limited slots available; first-come, first-served. Recommended for children aged 6 years and above, with an accompanying adult. Other terms & conditions apply. *Events are subject to change without prior notice. Social Rewards Beat the heat with cool and groovy looks! Show off your creative side and snap photos at our Summer Grooves decor to stand a chance to win gift vouchers up to RM50! Create a 4-grid collage and post it on your Instagram feed by 3rd August. Complete this sentence in your caption: 'Summer fest, good vibes, and…', tag us and use the hashtags #thegardensmallmy #tgmsummergrooves2025. Visit The Gardens Mall's Instagram @thegardensmallmy or for more details.
The Sun
16-07-2025
- Business
- The Sun
MCMC to enhance National Address System implementation until 2027
KUALA LUMPUR: The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) is set to expand the National Address System (NAS) implementation over the next three years, aiming for full operational readiness by 2027. This initiative follows a successful study phase conducted this year, which included forming a technical task force and launching pilot projects. Ahmad Aswadi Yusof, head of MCMC's Digital and Geospatial Innovation Division, outlined the roadmap for NAS development. 'In 2026, we will accelerate system development for pilot projects while establishing the NAS community and verifying data from key contributors. By 2027, the focus will shift to refining data quality and enhancing the application,' he said during the 2025 National Address Conference. Currently, Malaysia spends approximately RM700 million annually on location data sourced from external providers, often leading to inconsistencies. Ahmad Aswadi highlighted past inefficiencies, noting, 'Previously, no system consolidated this information, resulting in unreliable addresses.' A key challenge is the lack of standardized addresses, particularly in rural areas. Ahmad Aswadi cited an example where a parcel intended for Taman Bahagia in Kuala Lumpur was mistakenly sent to Taman Bahagia in Sandakan, Sabah, due to address duplication. NAS will serve as the sole government-recognized address database, streamlining over 11 million addresses nationwide. The 2025 National Address Conference features 15 presentations by local and international experts, with Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil officiating the event tomorrow. - Bernama
The Star
15-07-2025
- Business
- The Star
An urban collection by BRDB
An artist's impression: Federal Avenue, BRDB's Urban Collection, is a vibrant mixed-use enclave at Subang that offers transformative city living. With a projected gross development value (GDV) of RM2.6bil, the development spans 10.22ha along the Federal Highway. IT begins with a spark — the kind of place that instantly feels like it belongs to you. The thrill of waking up in a space that connects you to everything you need, instantly and effortlessly. The buzz of a neighbourhood that's always alive, defined by its people and pace. The pride of returning to a home that reflects your ambition, energy and lifestyle. Step into Federal Avenue, where every square foot is designed with purpose and every detail is planned to inspire. Developed by BRDB Developments Sdn Bhd - one of Malaysia's reputable property brands with a six-decade track record in development, management and property investment — this freehold mixed-use enclave at Subang is set to redefine what it means to live in the Klang Valley. Here, you don't just find a place to live — you find the pace that suits you. A place where live, work, play and well-being come together seamlessly. With a projected gross development value (GDV) of RM2.6bil, Federal Avenue spans 10.22ha, blending residential, retail, office suites and parks into a vibrant urban ecosystem. Urban mobility With everything within easy reach, the location offers seamless accessibility. Federal Avenue offers direct ingress and egress to the Federal Highway, giving you instant access to Kuala Lumpur, Shah Alam, Klang and beyond. Plus, it's seamlessly connected to major expressways like the New Klang Valley Expressway (NKVE), New Pantai Expressway (NPE) and the North–South Expressway Central Link (ELITE). Prefer public transport? You're covered. Batu Tiga KTM and Subang Jaya LRT stations are close by and a dedicated shuttle service is in the works to further enhance connectivity. For frequent travellers and business commuters alike, Sultan Abdul Aziz Shah Airport (Subang Skypark Terminal) and Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) are always within reach. An artist's impression: The welcoming lobby at Luminar Residence reflects Federal Avenue's modern urban living. Contemporary homes The first phase of Federal Avenue, Luminar Residence, is tailored for those who appreciate timeless design, practical layouts and the vibrant rhythm of city living. Set across two sleek towers are 751 serviced apartments, each thoughtfully designed to reflect how today's homeowners truly live. Buyers can choose from five well-considered layout types: >Type A: 549 sq ft (1+1 bedrooms, 1 bathroom); >Type B: 721 sq ft (1+1 bedrooms, 1 bathroom); >Type C: 872 sq ft (2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms); >Type D: 1,076 sq ft (2+1 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms); >Type E: 1,389 sq ft (3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms). Starting from just RM356,000, with an average of RM700 per sq ft, these homes present exceptional value in a high-demand, growth-ready location. Whether you're upgrading, investing, or purchasing your first home, there's a layout designed to match your next chapter. With low-rise developments in the vicinity, many units are rewarded with sweeping, unobstructed views – a rare privilege in city living. Christopher is optimistic that BRDB's urban collection will resonate with younger buyers seeking a lifestyle-driven, well-connected environment with a strong sense of community. 'We believe our BRDB's urban collection will resonate well with the younger demographic, particularly those looking for a lifestyle-driven, well-connected environment that encourages a strong sense of community,' said BRDB Developments group chief executive officer Christopher Manivannan. Additional components in this first phase include planned road infrastructure such as internal access roads and direct connectivity to both the Federal Highway and Subang, further enhancing everyday convenience. This phase will also feature one public park and two pet-friendly parks, thoughtfully designed to serve the wider community and provide residents — along with their furry companions — with new outdoor spaces to relax, play and connect, he added. An artist's impression: Luminar Residence's facilities podium includes a swimming pool for residents to stay active and unwind with family and friends. Curated comforts Why settle for ordinary when you can enjoy elevated everyday living? At Luminar Residence, a 0.77ha lifestyle podium brings leisure right to your doorstep. Dive into the pool after work, enjoy morning yoga in the park, or entertain friends by the BBQ pit on weekends. Facilities include: > Swimming pool, Jacuzzi and kids' pool; > Outdoor fitness stations and basketball half-court; > Reflexology path, hammock garden and herb garden; > Barbecue (BBQ) area, reading room, games room and multipurpose halls; > Pet-friendly zones and a 0.52ha community park. 'This lifestyle podium is all about balance — a space where residents can unwind, stay active and enjoy meaningful moments right at home,' he said. Integrated lifestyle Federal Avenue's visual identity is a standout feature. Its modernist façade forms a clean, structured grid — striking a balance between aesthetics and functionality. A vertical trellis screen enhances the car park podium, offering privacy, shade and a dynamic architectural texture that responds to natural light throughout the day. This meticulous attention to design reflects BRDB Developments' commitment to quality and lasting value. Though located along the Federal Highway, Federal Avenue enjoys close proximity to Subang Jaya's vibrant ecosystem of amenities. Residents have convenient access to: > Retail: Sunway Pyramid, NU Empire, AEON Mall Shah Alam and Da Men Mall; > Education: Sri KDU International School, INTI International University and Colleges, Sunway University, Taylor's University and Monash University Malaysia; > Healthcare: Subang Jaya Medical Centre, KPJ Selangor Specialist Hospital and Sunway Medical Centre; > Recreation: Subang Ria Recreational Park, Sunway Lagoon, Kelab Golf Negara Subang as well as Saujana Golf and Country Club. 'Federal Avenue is purposefully positioned to offer residents not just convenience, but a complete lifestyle where everything from retail and recreation to education and healthcare is just minutes away,' he said. Sustainable living Federal Avenue doesn't just look ahead — it leads. Sustainability is part of the plan: > Solar panels installed at the sales gallery; > Electric Vehicle (EV) charging bays; > A rainwater harvesting system for irrigation in the common areas; > Digital locksets at residential units. These features reflect a future-focused development that supports more sustainable urban living — without compromising on comfort or style. 'Sustainability isn't an afterthought at Federal Avenue — it's embedded in our approach to intelligent design, uplifting the way residents live through greener, more conscious choices every day,' he explained. A legacy of excellence In 2024, BRDB Developments celebrated its 60th anniversary — a milestone that marks six decades of shaping Malaysia's property landscape. Formerly known as Bandar Raya Developments Bhd, the company was incorporated in 1964 as one of the nation's pioneering property developers. Over the years, BRDB Developments has grown into one of Malaysia's most trusted names in property development, with a diversified international portfolio spanning residential, retail, commercial, property management and investment. It is clearly ingrained in BRDB's DNA: > Intelligent Design: Leveraging decades of expertise to craft functional and comfortable environments tailored to client needs; > Uplifting Aesthetics: Creating inspiring, visually engaging properties; > Embracing Cosmopolitan: Embracing global ideas in developments, fostering curiosity, openness and sociability. In line with its vision and mission, BRDB aspires to be Malaysia's leading property developer, guided by its brand promise of being 'inspired by the richness of life' — building communities that inspire and uplift. From the iconic Bangsar Shopping Centre (BSC) and One Menerung to Serai, The Troika and Emerald Bay, each development reflects the brand's philosophy of crafting timeless, community-centric spaces. Federal Avenue is an exciting chapter in this enduring legacy — a vibrant, future-ready address that embodies BRDB Developments' values of quality, innovation and purposeful urban design. With every project, BRDB Developments continues to embrace the cosmopolitan spirit, curating places where communities thrive and lifestyles are elevated. This 60-year journey is more than just a timeline — it reflects the developer's belief in creating homes and communities that enrich lives across generations. Rooted in a philosophy of continuous investment and uncompromising quality, its developments are not just built to last — they are meant to be lived in meaningfully. Federal Avenue carries forward the brand's enduring values, bridging its heritage with forward-looking design. Smart investment With over 2,000 registrations of interest already secured for Luminar Residence — the first phase with a GDV of RM463mil - Federal Avenue is clearly drawing strong demand for all the right reasons. Offering projected rental yields of 4% to 5% and backed by a forward-thinking masterplan, Federal Avenue is an investment that delivers both strong returns and meaningful livability. The development will be rolled out in phases, comprising both residential and commercial components. The sales gallery and three show units have been opened for public viewing since December last year. 'Federal Avenue is designed with long-term value in mind — it's not just about owning a property, but being part of a well-connected address with enduring appeal,' he added. 'All signs point to sustained growth as Federal Avenue continues to gain market traction,' he added. Federal Avenue is a landmark in sync with you — discover everything you need for the perfect live-work-leisure balance. Visit the Federal Avenue Sales Gallery or register now at Call 03-9212 0433 and take your next step into modern living.
Sinar Daily
12-07-2025
- Business
- Sinar Daily
Ahmad's Fried Chicken wants to give choices in local fast food market
Lailatul Sarahjana Mohd Ismail and her husband Mohd Taufik Khairuddin, both 34, had noticed a sudden interest surge in locally-produced products. 12 Jul 2025 05:00pm Founder of Ahmad's Fried Chicken, Mohd Taufik Khairuddin (left), with his wife, who is also the Co-Founder, Lailatul Sarahjana Mohd Ismail. - Bernama photo KUALA LUMPUR - When their online bakery business declined during the Covid-19 pandemic, a couple decided to pivot into the "fried chicken' business. Lailatul Sarahjana Mohd Ismail and her husband Mohd Taufik Khairuddin, both 34, had noticed a sudden interest surge in locally-produced products. Ahmad's Fried Chicken operates on a licensing model, with branch opening costs ranging from RM700,000 to RM1 million, depending on size and location. - Photo source: Ahmad Fried Chicken/FB The duo researched its market potential and identified a growing demand for more homegrown fare. "I did some product research and development for three months, while Taufik focused on market research and branding. We started with one stall at Mydin Senawang. We had very good response and decided to open a fast-food restaurant. "That's how Ahmad's Fried Chicken came to be. It was in line with our aspiration to create a Malaysian product we can be proud of. We named it after my husband's nickname, given by his father, which also reflects a local identity,' she told Bernama recently. Lailatul Sarahjana, who worked in the banking sector previously, said the transition to the fast-food industry was not easy, but past experience helped significantly in terms of management and automation. To ensure consistent flavour, the couple sought advice from food and beverage (F&B) industry experts and conducted various studies before finalising their fried chicken recipe. Ahmad's Fried Chicken is competitively priced against international brands. "The recipe and flour mix were developed in-house to maintain quality control. The international brands are our main challenge. They have the advantage in terms of supply chains and contract farming,' said Lailatul Sarahjana, who is from Teluk Intan, Perak. She said Ahmad's Fried Chicken operates on a licensing model, with branch opening costs ranging from RM700,000 to RM1 million, depending on size and location. So far, 38 outlets have been established nationwide, including restaurants and mini-restaurants, with a target of 66 outlets by the end of 2025. "We are opening outlets cautiously with a focus on urban areas first because all raw materials, including chicken, must be supplied from our headquarters in Puchong,' she said. Lailatul Sarahjana added that they are actively seeking strategic partners among small and medium enterprises (SMEs) to accelerate branch expansion. "We need 10 more SME partners to meet our target for this year. So far, more than 1,000 applications have been received and are currently being evaluated,' she said. On the boycott of international brands, Lailatul Sarahjana said establishing Ahmad's Fried Chicken was not reactionary. Their am was to have a local alternative that could compete in terms of quality. "We are not competing aggressively, but we want to offer choices in terms of taste, portion size, and meals that are tailored to local preferences. The boycott issue might have attracted attention, but in the end, it is the quality that determines success,' she said. On whether Ahmad's Fried Chicken plans to become a franchisor, she said the brand has not reached the required three-year mark. "We are in discussions with Perbadanan Nasional Bhd for guidance currently to set up a franchise. Our goal is to enter international markets such as Saudi Arabia and the United States,' she said. - BERNAMA More Like This
