Sunday, April 1, 2012

CapitaLand eyes expansion in Malaysia

Oct 5, 2010

Singapore-based property developer CapitaLand Ltd is seeking to expand its presence in Malaysia’s property sector with the robust turnaround of the nation’s economy at an estimated gross domestic product of about 6.5 percent this year.

CapitaLand keeps a long-term view of Malaysia’s real estate market and is dedicated to being a long-term property player in the nation, said Catherine Yao, vice president of marketing at CapitaLand Commercial Ltd.

“CapitaLand is one of the largest foreign real estate players in Malaysia today. It believes the market holds good potential and is actively looking for suitable sites to undertake more residential and commercial projects where appropriate,” said Yao in an interview with StarBizWeek.

With regards to the expansion, the developer will tap on its strengths in the office, shopping mall, residential and service residence business.

Aside from Kuala Lumpur, where it has established a large presence, CapitaLand is also considering other areas of the Klang Valley and strong growth markets such as Penang.

Projects will be planned based on market needs and opportunities for best returns for the company, she said.

“Generally, the fundamentals of Malaysia’s property market are still good and we expect sustainable demand for residential properties by both owner occupiers and investment buyers,” added Yao.

In the Malaysian capital, the developer has undertaken several high-end residential projects in the city centre, KL Sentral, Mont’Kiara and Bangsar, which include projects like Marc Service Residence, Suasana Sentral, Kiaraville, Seni Mont Kiara, Zehn Bukit Pantai and Hampshire Residences.

In the past few years, it has also completed several commercial projects, particularly in Mont’Kiara and Lot J in KL Sentral.

Besides Singapore, CapitaLand also has listed entities in Malaysia – CapitaMalls Malaysia Trust and Quill Capita Trust.

“In line with CapitaLand’s overall strategy for its REITs, both the listed entities are expected to grow in their asset size,” added Yao.

CapitaLand’s service residence business unit, The Ascott Ltd, is also looking for suitable opportunities to expand its presence in Malaysia.

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