wef 1 Dec 2014
Monday 24 November 2014
Friday 14 November 2014
Legoland bags tourism award
Legoland bags tourism award
FOR the second time, Legoland Malaysia Resort clinched the coveted Excellence Award for Best Attraction & Tourism Experience at the ninth edition of Expatriate Lifestyle’s Best of Malaysia Award, which was held at Club Esperance in Fraser Business Park, Kuala Lumpur on Oct 28.
Other attractions competing in the same category included Sunway Lagoon, Aquaria Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre and the Kuala Lumpur Tower.
The Best of Malaysia award celebrates the finest in the travel and hospitality industry and is organised annually by Expatriate Lifestyle.
The nominees are nominated and voted for by well-travelled expatriates living in Malaysia.
This year, a record-breaking 30,000 votes were cast in over 18 categories, all chosen from shortlists over a 13-week voting period. The voting period ended on Oct 1.
Upon receiving the recognition, Legoland Malaysia Resort general manager Mark Germyn said: “We truly appreciate this recognition. It really goes to show that our resort is a great place for families.
“We will continue to strive to be the best, not just in Malaysia, but in Asia as well.
“This marks a great way to end 2014 and we look forward to more success in 2015.”
The awards were presented by the event’s guest of honour — the newly appointed British High Commissioner to Malaysia Vicki Treadell, Expatriate Lifestyle editor Ian Johnston and Guinness Anchor Breweries marketing director Bruce Dallas.
The night saw 18 trophy winners, with 54 others receiving Excellence Award certificates.
Legoland Malaysia Resort brings together a theme park, water park and hotel in one Lego-themed location in Nusajaya.
It is a family holiday destination, with more than 70 hands-on rides, slides, shows and attractions, designed for families with children aged 2 to 12.
It is the first of its kind in Asia and offers adventure, education and fun for action-packed day trips or as a short break destination.
Legoland Malaysia Resort, in Nusajaya, Johor.
~News courtesy of New Straits Times~
FOR the second time, Legoland Malaysia Resort clinched the coveted Excellence Award for Best Attraction & Tourism Experience at the ninth edition of Expatriate Lifestyle’s Best of Malaysia Award, which was held at Club Esperance in Fraser Business Park, Kuala Lumpur on Oct 28.
Other attractions competing in the same category included Sunway Lagoon, Aquaria Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre and the Kuala Lumpur Tower.
The Best of Malaysia award celebrates the finest in the travel and hospitality industry and is organised annually by Expatriate Lifestyle.
The nominees are nominated and voted for by well-travelled expatriates living in Malaysia.
This year, a record-breaking 30,000 votes were cast in over 18 categories, all chosen from shortlists over a 13-week voting period. The voting period ended on Oct 1.
Upon receiving the recognition, Legoland Malaysia Resort general manager Mark Germyn said: “We truly appreciate this recognition. It really goes to show that our resort is a great place for families.
“We will continue to strive to be the best, not just in Malaysia, but in Asia as well.
“This marks a great way to end 2014 and we look forward to more success in 2015.”
The awards were presented by the event’s guest of honour — the newly appointed British High Commissioner to Malaysia Vicki Treadell, Expatriate Lifestyle editor Ian Johnston and Guinness Anchor Breweries marketing director Bruce Dallas.
The night saw 18 trophy winners, with 54 others receiving Excellence Award certificates.
Legoland Malaysia Resort brings together a theme park, water park and hotel in one Lego-themed location in Nusajaya.
It is a family holiday destination, with more than 70 hands-on rides, slides, shows and attractions, designed for families with children aged 2 to 12.
It is the first of its kind in Asia and offers adventure, education and fun for action-packed day trips or as a short break destination.
Legoland Malaysia Resort, in Nusajaya, Johor.
~News courtesy of New Straits Times~
Monday 10 November 2014
Visit Johor tourist spots by train
Visit Johor tourist spots by train
THE state wants foreign and domestic tourists to start using trains to visit places of interest in Johor.
This is in view of the 11 Keretapi Tanah Melayu (KTM) train stations in the state, with each located either near or a short distance away from numerous tourist attractions.
State Tourism, Trade and Consumerism Committee chairman Datuk Tee Siew Kiong said tour operators are encouraged to come up with packages that incorporate train rides.
“Singaporean tourists can, for instance, take the train service from Woodlands to Kluang to enjoy Kluang coffee. From the Kluang train station, they can also visit some of the eco- or agro-tourism destinations in Kahang or Ayer Hitam.
“For those disembarking at JB Sentral, various tourist attractions are within walking distance such as the Heritage Walk near Jalan Tan Hiok Nee.
“They can even take a connecting bus service to Legoland and Sanrio Hello Kitty theme park in Nusajaya.
“At the Kulai train station, it is just a short distance away to the Johor Premium Outlets.
“If one intends to go to the Endau-Rompin National Park, the Bekok station is an ideal stop,” he said.
Tee said taking trains would offer an exciting and unique experience for tourists, as the rail tracks usually cut through rural areas, which offer verdant and rustic scenery along the way.
He noted that most people are not exposed to trains as a mode of travel, although it is a popular mode of transport overseas.
“Travelling by trains will become a trend in future. I hope KTM Bhd will increase its frequency to cater to the needs of the people,” he added.
“This is also a viable option for those coming from districts outside Johor Baru but want to travel to Singapore,” Tee said, adding that the train service provides a cheaper alternative, as it is the only mode of transport not subject to toll charges and vehicle entry permit fee at the Causeway.
“Train service and facilities have improved over the years. More importantly, there will be no traffic congestion which means travellers will arrive at their destinations on time,” he said.
Datuk Tee Siew Kiong (centre) at the launch of Student Tourism Programme at the JB Sentral recently.
~News courtesy of New Straits Times~
THE state wants foreign and domestic tourists to start using trains to visit places of interest in Johor.
This is in view of the 11 Keretapi Tanah Melayu (KTM) train stations in the state, with each located either near or a short distance away from numerous tourist attractions.
State Tourism, Trade and Consumerism Committee chairman Datuk Tee Siew Kiong said tour operators are encouraged to come up with packages that incorporate train rides.
“Singaporean tourists can, for instance, take the train service from Woodlands to Kluang to enjoy Kluang coffee. From the Kluang train station, they can also visit some of the eco- or agro-tourism destinations in Kahang or Ayer Hitam.
“For those disembarking at JB Sentral, various tourist attractions are within walking distance such as the Heritage Walk near Jalan Tan Hiok Nee.
“They can even take a connecting bus service to Legoland and Sanrio Hello Kitty theme park in Nusajaya.
“At the Kulai train station, it is just a short distance away to the Johor Premium Outlets.
“If one intends to go to the Endau-Rompin National Park, the Bekok station is an ideal stop,” he said.
Tee said taking trains would offer an exciting and unique experience for tourists, as the rail tracks usually cut through rural areas, which offer verdant and rustic scenery along the way.
He noted that most people are not exposed to trains as a mode of travel, although it is a popular mode of transport overseas.
“Travelling by trains will become a trend in future. I hope KTM Bhd will increase its frequency to cater to the needs of the people,” he added.
“This is also a viable option for those coming from districts outside Johor Baru but want to travel to Singapore,” Tee said, adding that the train service provides a cheaper alternative, as it is the only mode of transport not subject to toll charges and vehicle entry permit fee at the Causeway.
“Train service and facilities have improved over the years. More importantly, there will be no traffic congestion which means travellers will arrive at their destinations on time,” he said.
Datuk Tee Siew Kiong (centre) at the launch of Student Tourism Programme at the JB Sentral recently.
~News courtesy of New Straits Times~
Convenient taxi transit point
Convenient taxi transit point
THE public can now take a taxi from Johor Baru to Singapore at Larkin Sentral transport hub, which now has a new taxi waiting area.
The terminal, which was recently upgraded, saw the re-location of operators who were formerly at the Kotaraya 2 bus and taxi stands, here.
Damansara Assets Sdn Bhd head of corporate communications Ungku Abdul Aziz Ungku Hasnan said that the refurbished Larkin Sentral was now a transit point for taxis and buses.
“The bus stop is poised to receive more than 60,000 local and foreign tourists.
“To make it more convenient to the public, a taxi waiting area was incorporated into the plans,” he said, adding that the waiting area had seats and offices for operators, and was built at the cost of RM1 million. It was opened on Nov 1.
Ungku Abdul Aziz said the existing taxi stand in Jalan Garuda 2 was still operating.
“The old taxi stand is part of the car park of the transport building, so taxi drivers can still pick up and drop off passengers in this part of Larkin,” he said.
Ungku Abdul Aziz said the construction of the taxi stand and offices started last June and was completed last month.
This was about the same time the refurbishment works started at the terminal itself.
“The new taxi wing has been well-received by the public.”
“There are about 50 taxis plying the Johor Baru-Singapore route and 80 budget and executive taxis which offer rides around Johor Baru stationed here.
He said the facility houses the offices of Johor Baru-Singapore taxi companies and taxi cooperatives.
“The facilities are convenient for those who want to travel long distance as both long and short-distance taxi operators are stationed under one roof here.”
“We want to make it convenient for the public and reduce traffic congestion.
“These features will improve the image of the terminal.”
Abrizah Abu Bakar, 50, a trader, said she liked the new terminal.
“It is not congested like the old terminal at Kotaraya 2, and it is easy to get taxis as the queue is systematic,” Abrizah said.
Zainureeza Zainudin, 31, who takes taxis frequently said the terminal was impressive.
“I used to wait for taxis at the market. Now they are here, it is more convenient, and there are seats for those waiting their turn,” she said.
Md Azman Yusof, a taxi driver for 13 years, said the terminal made it easier for taxi drivers to pick up passengers.
“Take for example the Komtar Johor Baru City Centre mall in the heart of the city — when we pick up passengers, we have to look out for the traffic police.
“If there is one in sight, we do not dare to stop for passengers as there is no taxi stand at the shopping mall,” he added.
Designated lanes for budget, executive, and long-distance taxis.
~News courtesy of New Straits Times~
THE public can now take a taxi from Johor Baru to Singapore at Larkin Sentral transport hub, which now has a new taxi waiting area.
The terminal, which was recently upgraded, saw the re-location of operators who were formerly at the Kotaraya 2 bus and taxi stands, here.
Damansara Assets Sdn Bhd head of corporate communications Ungku Abdul Aziz Ungku Hasnan said that the refurbished Larkin Sentral was now a transit point for taxis and buses.
“The bus stop is poised to receive more than 60,000 local and foreign tourists.
“To make it more convenient to the public, a taxi waiting area was incorporated into the plans,” he said, adding that the waiting area had seats and offices for operators, and was built at the cost of RM1 million. It was opened on Nov 1.
Ungku Abdul Aziz said the existing taxi stand in Jalan Garuda 2 was still operating.
“The old taxi stand is part of the car park of the transport building, so taxi drivers can still pick up and drop off passengers in this part of Larkin,” he said.
Ungku Abdul Aziz said the construction of the taxi stand and offices started last June and was completed last month.
This was about the same time the refurbishment works started at the terminal itself.
“The new taxi wing has been well-received by the public.”
“There are about 50 taxis plying the Johor Baru-Singapore route and 80 budget and executive taxis which offer rides around Johor Baru stationed here.
He said the facility houses the offices of Johor Baru-Singapore taxi companies and taxi cooperatives.
“The facilities are convenient for those who want to travel long distance as both long and short-distance taxi operators are stationed under one roof here.”
“We want to make it convenient for the public and reduce traffic congestion.
“These features will improve the image of the terminal.”
Abrizah Abu Bakar, 50, a trader, said she liked the new terminal.
“It is not congested like the old terminal at Kotaraya 2, and it is easy to get taxis as the queue is systematic,” Abrizah said.
Zainureeza Zainudin, 31, who takes taxis frequently said the terminal was impressive.
“I used to wait for taxis at the market. Now they are here, it is more convenient, and there are seats for those waiting their turn,” she said.
Md Azman Yusof, a taxi driver for 13 years, said the terminal made it easier for taxi drivers to pick up passengers.
“Take for example the Komtar Johor Baru City Centre mall in the heart of the city — when we pick up passengers, we have to look out for the traffic police.
“If there is one in sight, we do not dare to stop for passengers as there is no taxi stand at the shopping mall,” he added.
Designated lanes for budget, executive, and long-distance taxis.
~News courtesy of New Straits Times~
Saturday 1 November 2014
First indoor Angry Birds park in SE Asia
First indoor Angry Birds park in SE Asia
Johor Corporation (JCorp) is targeting 150,000 visitors to its Angry Birds Activity Park (ABAP), the first indoor park of its kind in Southeast Asia during its launch on Friday.
The RM17 million ABAP is located on the third floor of Komtar Johor Baru City Centre (JBCC).
The park, spanning 2,415 sq metres, was developed by Damansara Assets Bhd, a subsidiary of JCorp, in collaboration with Angry Birds founder Rovio Entertainment Ltd which is based in Finland.
JCorp president and chief executive officer Datuk Kamaruzzaman Abu Kasim said children would enjoy the Red Bird Sona interactive playground, Lazer Maze Spaceship, Classic Tower Plan, Go! Kart and Anti-Gravity Trampolines.
“Youths will be thrilled by the Lazer Bird Shoot, Space Drop Airbag, Panna Soccer, Red Bird Goat and Air Parkour Track.
“For younger kids and toddlers, there is the Spinning Time Machine, Piggy Shooting Gallery, Captain Black Bird Ship and Sand Castle Ball Pit.”
Kamaruzzaman said this at the pre-launch of the park on Sunday.
He also said that the main attraction of the park is that it would provide a new form of entertainment for Angry Birds fans from overseas and locally.
“We are expecting 150,000 visitors within a year of its launch, but the number may reach up to 200,000, with the support of our partners,” he said, adding that they are constantly on the lookout for international brands to bring into Johor.
“We want to restore Komtar JBCC to be the city’s premier shopping, lifestyle, dining and entertainment centre.
“We have brought 30 per cent new branded retailers who are making their first appearance in Johor Baru in the mall,” he said.
Also present at the pre-launch were Rovio Entertainment director of sales and relationships Yonna Nummela; Damansara Assets executive director Yusaini Sidek and Mutiara Johor Corporation chairman Datin Noor Laila Yahaya.
“Angry Birds is popular among people of all ages around the world, and fans in Malaysia and neighbouring countries,” he said.
Admission to the park is RM75 while holders of MyKad or MyKid pay only RM60.
“We have a wide range of individual tickets and unlimited annual passes for visitors to choose from, as well as for student groups with a minimum of 30 people.
“Children can also celebrate their birthdays here with our Angry Birds package deals,” he said.
Angry Birds brand has become an international success since its creation in 2009.
The park will open daily from 10am to 10pm.
A view of the Angry Birds Activity Park at Komtar JBCC.
~News courtesy of New Straits Times~
Johor Corporation (JCorp) is targeting 150,000 visitors to its Angry Birds Activity Park (ABAP), the first indoor park of its kind in Southeast Asia during its launch on Friday.
The RM17 million ABAP is located on the third floor of Komtar Johor Baru City Centre (JBCC).
The park, spanning 2,415 sq metres, was developed by Damansara Assets Bhd, a subsidiary of JCorp, in collaboration with Angry Birds founder Rovio Entertainment Ltd which is based in Finland.
JCorp president and chief executive officer Datuk Kamaruzzaman Abu Kasim said children would enjoy the Red Bird Sona interactive playground, Lazer Maze Spaceship, Classic Tower Plan, Go! Kart and Anti-Gravity Trampolines.
“Youths will be thrilled by the Lazer Bird Shoot, Space Drop Airbag, Panna Soccer, Red Bird Goat and Air Parkour Track.
“For younger kids and toddlers, there is the Spinning Time Machine, Piggy Shooting Gallery, Captain Black Bird Ship and Sand Castle Ball Pit.”
Kamaruzzaman said this at the pre-launch of the park on Sunday.
He also said that the main attraction of the park is that it would provide a new form of entertainment for Angry Birds fans from overseas and locally.
“We are expecting 150,000 visitors within a year of its launch, but the number may reach up to 200,000, with the support of our partners,” he said, adding that they are constantly on the lookout for international brands to bring into Johor.
“We want to restore Komtar JBCC to be the city’s premier shopping, lifestyle, dining and entertainment centre.
“We have brought 30 per cent new branded retailers who are making their first appearance in Johor Baru in the mall,” he said.
Also present at the pre-launch were Rovio Entertainment director of sales and relationships Yonna Nummela; Damansara Assets executive director Yusaini Sidek and Mutiara Johor Corporation chairman Datin Noor Laila Yahaya.
“Angry Birds is popular among people of all ages around the world, and fans in Malaysia and neighbouring countries,” he said.
Admission to the park is RM75 while holders of MyKad or MyKid pay only RM60.
“We have a wide range of individual tickets and unlimited annual passes for visitors to choose from, as well as for student groups with a minimum of 30 people.
“Children can also celebrate their birthdays here with our Angry Birds package deals,” he said.
Angry Birds brand has become an international success since its creation in 2009.
The park will open daily from 10am to 10pm.
A view of the Angry Birds Activity Park at Komtar JBCC.
~News courtesy of New Straits Times~
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