Sim Leisure Group Ltd founder and chief executive Sim Choo Kheng minces no words in stating his stand against any form of corruption, big or small. The 55-year-old Penangite declares integrity was, is and will remain the cornerstone of all his business decisions and executions.

“The unhealthy practice of liquidators imposing exorbitant administrative fees up to 2% or 3% of the purchase price (or in some cases, current market value of the properties) for executing the transfer of individual titles to purchasers has now become a norm.”

Knight Frank (Greater China) director and head of research and consultancy Martin Wong: On the back of the huge pent-up travel demand in the post-Covid-19 era, coupled with the strong potential demand for both leisure and business travel generated by the Greater Bay Area initiative, the longer-term prospects for tourism in the Greater China region remain positive

“Moving forward, Berjaya Land will be unveiling more affordable housing projects that cater to the mass market. There are 250,000 people who are looking for affordable homes.”

Berjaya Land is working towards an exciting close to 2021. Behind the scene, the team is working to accelerate penetration into both the affordable and high-end spectrums of the property development market.

“In designing the houses for the young homebuyers, it’s not just about reducing the price, but also designing houses that suit their needs, from layout to infrastructure and amenities within the township.”

In Malaysia, the property development sector is among the more high-profiled casualties. In fact, it was like a double blow as the property market had been generally on the decline when the pandemic hit.

So when EcoWorld announced last week it had raked in RM1.32 billion in sales in 2Q2021 ended April, the market sat up.

The one-and-only Gates’ resi­dence is valued at US$130.8 million. It could possibly be one of the most expensive private residences in the world.

“Corporate occupiers will increasingly de­mand real estate solutions that complement their sustainability agendas. This will lead inves­tors to prioritise green investments, propelling the real estate industry transformation towards future-ready green buildings,” said JLL APAC CEO Anthony Couse.

The newly-minted chairman is laying out plans to navigate REITs through Covid-19