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  • Bonia Transforms Shopping Experience with Innovative Store Design in Kuala Lumpur

    Bonia Transforms Shopping Experience with Innovative Store Design in Kuala Lumpur

    Malaysia’s lifestyle brand Bonia has launched a flagship store in Kuala Lumpur, revealing a unique retail concept that combines customer engagement and innovative spatial design.

    Exterior and Interior Design

    The new store boasts a colonnade-style exterior adorned with red brick tiles, reminiscent of traditional street architecture. Inside, the space showcases a layout composed of four interconnected rooms, each revolving around a major display area. This design offers a more immersive and easily navigable shopping experience to the customers.

    Distinct Functional Spaces

    Each room within the store is assigned a unique function. Some of the areas draw inspiration from different environments, such as a library, dressing room, and lounge. The transition between these distinct spaces is marked by varying color schemes, including hues of red, orange, and terracotta.

    A New Retail Concept

    Bonia’s concept aims to make the retail environment more interactive. This is achieved by merging product presentations with flexible design elements. The brand’s focus on creating a dynamic and engaging retail experience is clearly reflected in this innovative approach.

    The opening of the Kuala Lumpur store comes in the wake of Bonia’s international expansions, notably in Vietnam. However, the company had to withdraw a joint venture in the country earlier, following a provision for losses amounting to US$1.3 million.

    Questions & Answers

    What is the unique concept of Bonia’s new store in Kuala Lumpur?
    The store integrates customer engagement with innovative spatial design, creating a dynamic and immersive shopping experience.

    How is the interior of the Bonia store structured?
    The store’s interior comprises four interconnected rooms, each assigned a unique function and theme. The rooms are designed to resemble a library, dressing room, and lounge, among others.

    What led to Bonia’s earlier withdrawal from a joint venture in Vietnam?
    Bonia had to exit a joint venture in Vietnam due to a provision for losses which amounted to US$1.3 million.

  • Exploring the Stability of Kuala Lumpur’s Logistics Sector: Insights for 2023

    Exploring the Stability of Kuala Lumpur’s Logistics Sector: Insights for 2023

    The logistics landscape in Kuala Lumpur is poised for remarkable stability through 2025, as detailed in a recent report by JLL. This trend is largely fueled by the booming e-commerce sector and the global technology upcycle, spurred on by a surge in artificial intelligence (AI) innovations that are reshaping the demand for modern logistical spaces.

    Tax Changes and Market Adjustments

    A significant shift is on the horizon with Malaysia’s expansion of the Sales and Service Tax (SST), effective July 2025. This adjustment brings real estate leasing transactions into the tax fold, introducing an 8% taxation rate. As landlords and tenants grapple with these changes, negotiations will likely become central to finding a balance in operational costs.

    Rapid Growth in Logistics Properties

    The logistics property sector is experiencing exceptional growth, propelled by new developments that are witnessing impressive net absorption rates. High-quality facilities are attracting eye-catching tenancies from leading sports brands and consumer goods companies.

    This surge can be predominantly traced back to sectors such as Automotive, Electrical and Electronics (E&E), and third-party logistics (3PL) providers, alongside various manufacturers. Current projects are enjoying robust pre-commitment rates, signaling strong market confidence.

    Major Developments on the Horizon

    In the second quarter of 2025, notable expansions in Shah Alam and Pulau Indah added approximately 2 million square feet of Grade A warehouse space to the market, answering specialized demand from the Automotive and E&E industries. Surprisingly, vacancies remain astoundingly low, at just 2%, even amid these new deliveries. Companies are increasingly migrating towards premium quality spaces, indicating a clear preference for top-tier facilities.

    Stability Amid Potential Challenges

    Despite some anticipated challenges, such as increases in SST and electricity costs slated for July, rental rates have held steady within the market. Pulau Indah, in particular, has seen notable growth as emerging prime facilities close the gap with more established submarkets.

    Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) are actively expanding their portfolios through strategic acquisitions. A prime example is AmanahRaya REIT’s acquisition of a warehouse in Kuala Langat through a sale-and-leaseback arrangement, which not only secures stable income but also assures operational continuity for the tenant—a win-win in today’s fast-paced market.

    Questions & Answers

    What key factors are driving growth in the logistics sector in Kuala Lumpur?
    The logistics sector’s growth is primarily driven by the expansion of e-commerce, the Automotive and Electrical and Electronics industries, along with 3PL providers, each increasing demand for modern storage solutions.

    How will the new Sales and Service Tax affect landlords and tenants?
    The introduction of the 8% SST on real estate leasing transactions will likely prompt landlords and tenants to engage in negotiations to adapt to the new tax landscape, helping to manage the impact on operational costs.

    What does the current vacancy rate suggest about the market?
    With the vacancy rate at an impressive 2%, the logistics market shows strong demand dynamics, as companies prefer to incorporate higher-quality spaces, indicating a healthy appetite for premium logistical solutions.

  • Kuala Lumpur Set to Unveil Exciting New Shopping Mall in Q4!

    Kuala Lumpur Set to Unveil Exciting New Shopping Mall in Q4!

    Kuala Lumpur’s retail landscape remains steadfast, with no new malls gracing the City Centre in the second quarter of 2023, according to the latest report from JLL. The retail inventory in this prime sector holds steady at around 11.5 million square feet, while the Suburban submarket totals a robust 37.3 million square feet. Adding to the excitement, the much-anticipated Ombak KLCC is set to open its doors by the fourth quarter of 2025, promising to enrich the local shopping experience.

    Vacancy Rates on the Rise—But Not for Long

    The report highlights a slight improvement in the overall vacancy rate, a trend fueled by robust demand and brand expansions across both submarkets. Landlords of underperforming malls are stepping up their game, proactively repositioning and refreshing their brand mixes to attract new tenants. “The game plan is clear: adapt and thrive,” the report suggests.

    Fashion and F&B Brands Join the Fray

    Demand for food and beverage (F&B) options and fashion retail remains vibrant, with exciting new entrants like Benihana, Tous Les Jours, and Cabbeen making their mark. Marimekko, an established name, has also ramped up its expansion efforts. New immersive retail experiences have debuted with Pop Mart and Wilson, adding a much-needed layer of interactivity to the shopping journey. Who needs a regular browsing session when you can have a hands-on adventure instead?

    Market Fluctuations Amid Closures

    However, it wasn’t all sunshine and roses in the retail realm, as the quarter saw notable closures, including Don Don Donki, Spotlight, and a premium grocer in the Suburban area. Yet, the influx of new entertainment, leisure, and co-working tenants occupying larger spaces offers a stabilizing effect on market demand.

    Rent Trends: A Balancing Act

    As for rent growth, the market recorded a modest rise buoyed by healthy leasing activity and demand. Still, mall operators are grappling with higher operating costs due to wage increases and soaring energy expenses, which have prevented more aggressive rent hikes.

    Investment Landscape and Future Outlook

    While the current landscape revealed no notable prime en bloc investment transactions, recent activities have primarily occurred in the suburban submarket, with buyers looking to expand their property portfolios amid cautious optimism.

    Bright Horizons with a Dash of Caution

    Looking ahead, a positive retail demand outlook persists, notwithstanding policy shifts. The City Centre should expect a new retail influx of 1.27 million square feet within a year. While vacancy rates may temporarily tick up, the anticipated Visit Malaysia Year 2026 is set to stimulate demand, buoyed by a rise in tourist activity and spending.

    With tourism numbers on the rise and Malaysia’s unemployment rate dipping to a decade-low, retail demand could enjoy a stable trajectory. However, a spike in the sales and services tax looms, potentially impacting consumer spending and pushing up operating costs for mall operators.

    Questions & Answers

    What factors contributed to the slight improvement in the overall vacancy rate?
    The improvement in the vacancy rate can be attributed to firm take-ups and brand expansions across both the City Centre and Suburban submarkets, as landlords of low-performing malls have actively repositioned their brands to attract new tenants.

    Which new brands entered the Kuala Lumpur retail market recently?
    Recent entrants include Benihana, Tous Les Jours, and Cabbeen in the F&B and fashion sectors, with established brand Marimekko also expanding its presence.

    What does the future hold for Kuala Lumpur’s retail landscape?
    Despite potential increases in vacancy rates due to new supply, a positive outlook for retail demand is among the predictions, especially in light of the upcoming Visit Malaysia Year 2026, set to boost tourist spending.

  • Kuala Lumpur’s Prime Residential Market Set for Exciting Growth Ahead

    Kuala Lumpur’s Prime Residential Market Set for Exciting Growth Ahead

    Two projects were completed and another two were launched in Q1.

    Prime Residential Sector on the Rise

    Kuala Lumpur’s prime residential sector is gearing up for significant expansion, buoyed by a post-pandemic recovery, supportive government initiatives aimed at bolstering homeownership, and innovative financing options like green home programmes. These factors are not just catching the eye of locals—they’re also enticing foreign investors eager to tap into a market poised for growth.

    A recent report by JLL underscores this promising outlook. “Ongoing infrastructure developments are expected to enhance the appeal of suburban areas and transit-oriented developments, while the city’s affordability compared to other Asian markets should continue to drive investment, despite global economic challenges,” the report revealed. It paints a picture of a landscape ripe with opportunity.

    Dynamic Growth Despite Market Concerns

    As Kuala Lumpur shakes off the remnants of the pandemic, its prime residential sector is seeing a remarkable resurgence, characterized by rising sales and property values. However, experts urge a tempered enthusiasm, noting that concerns about potential market overheating necessitate cautious optimism for the medium term.

    Newly launched and ongoing projects are witnessing robust interest, with take-up rates fluctuating between 30% to 50%. Soft-launch schemes have also experienced promising booking levels, highlighting a healthy appetite in the market that just might surprise those who thought buyers had soured on the idea of investing.

    New Developments Take Center Stage

    This quarter saw the completion of two substantial residential developments, Allevia and Sunway Belfield, which together contributed 1,624 units to the market. Simultaneously, two new projects, CloutHaus Residence and Hanaz Suites, have been introduced, adding 955 units to the mix. The infusion of these developments speaks volumes about the resilience and sustained interest in Kuala Lumpur’s real estate.

    Favorable Conditions for Investors

    The attractiveness of the prime residential market continues to hold firm, with stable rates and competitive pricing serving as a magnet for investors even amid global economic uncertainties. Bank Negara Malaysia has kept the Overnight Policy Rate steady at 3.00% since May 2023, fostering a conducive atmosphere for borrowing. This policy has made mortgages more accessible and affordable, further stimulating demand for property investment.

    Despite pervasive global inflationary pressures, Kuala Lumpur’s prime residential market remains appealing, characterized by property prices that are among the most affordable in Asia. This affordability continues to attract both local and foreign investors looking to navigate the choppy waters of today’s economic landscape.

    Questions & Answers

    What factors are driving growth in Kuala Lumpur’s residential sector?
    Post-pandemic recovery, government initiatives supporting homeownership, and innovative financing options, such as green home programmes, are key motivators behind the growth.

    How have the recent projects performed in the market?
    Newly launched and ongoing projects boast solid take-up rates ranging from 30% to 50%, indicating a healthy appetite among buyers.

    What makes Kuala Lumpur’s prime residential market appealing to investors?
    Stable pricing and competitive rates, in conjunction with accessibility to affordable mortgages thanks to a maintained Overnight Policy Rate, make Kuala Lumpur an attractive proposition for investors in comparison to other Asian markets.

  • AirAsia X to end Mauritius flights in late 1Q17

    AirAsia X to end Mauritius flights in late 1Q17

    AirAsia X (D7, Kuala Lumpur Int’l) has announced its withdrawal from the African market with effect from March 25 of this year.

    Arik De, Chief Head of Commercial for AirAsia (AK, Kuala Lumpur Int’l), told Panapress in a statement that the decision to end flights to Mauritius was based on the need to deploy capacity to its strongest markets.

    “The suspension of the Mauritius route is a part of the company’s big plan in network restructuring aimed at improving operational efficiencies in term of aircraft utilizations,” it said. “It is also to accelerate capacity growth in AirAsia X key markets of Australia, China, Taiwan, Japan and Korea.”

    AirAsia X began flights to the Indian Ocean island in October last year using A330-300 equipment. Insofar as competition to Kuala Lumpur Int’l is concerned, it came up against Air Mauritius (MK, Mauritius).

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  • Lombard Odier Strengthens Presence in Asia with New Strategic Partnership

    Lombard Odier Strengthens Presence in Asia with New Strategic Partnership

    Swiss private bank Lombard Odier has forged a significant strategic alliance with Kuala Lumpur’s Hong Leong Bank, reinforcing its presence in Asia’s dynamic financial landscape.

    Forging a Strategic Alliance

    This partnership, announced by Lombard Odier (Singapore), aims to blend Hong Leong Bank’s deep understanding of the Asian market with Lombard Odier’s renowned expertise in sustainability and tailored wealth management. The collaboration promises a holistic suite of bespoke advisory services, including exclusive “red carpet advisory” and discretionary portfolio management for discerning clients.

    Senior Managing Partner Hubert Keller emphasized the potential for remarkable growth in Asia’s domestic markets, citing an increasing demand for customized wealth management solutions and a growing necessity for banks to offer clients access to global investment opportunities from within the region.

    Elevating Client Services

    Hong Leong Bank is also elevating its HLB Private Bank offerings by integrating Lombard Odier’s global investment insights with its local knowledge. “Singapore is a pivotal wealth hub in a continent experiencing unprecedented growth in affluence,” noted Kevin Lam, Group Managing Director and CEO of HLB. “This strategic alliance allows us to enrich our Private Banking services in a meaningful way.”

    Founded in 1905, Hong Leong Bank has a robust presence not only in Malaysia but also in Singapore, Hong Kong, Vietnam, and Cambodia, further enhancing its international appeal.

    Expanding Onshore Capabilities

    The establishment of such alliances forms a core part of Lombard Odier’s strategy to expand its wealth management services within onshore markets. The bank has already partnered with local financial institutions in various regions, including Australia, Japan, Taiwan, Thailand, and the Philippines. Notably, Lombard Odier is set to celebrate the 10th anniversary of its collaboration with Kasikornbank’s private wealth arm in December 2024.

    Vincent Magnenat, Asia Group Regional Head and Global Head of Strategic Alliances at Lombard Odier, expressed confidence in the partnership, stating, “We believe in collaborating with the right partners who share our vision for the future of wealth and asset management. Our alliance with HLB is a powerful testament to our shared values and commitment to innovation and sustainability.”

    With the dynamic financial sphere in Asia continually shifting, this partnership promises not just growth but a fresh chapter of opportunity for wealth creation — who knows what other surprises await in the world of finance?

    Questions & Answers

    What is the significance of the partnership between Lombard Odier and Hong Leong Bank? The partnership aims to blend local market expertise with global investment insights, enhancing wealth management services for clients in Asia.

    How does this alliance fit into Lombard Odier’s broader strategy? The alliance is part of Lombard Odier’s push to expand its wealth management capabilities in onshore markets, building on existing partnerships in various Asian countries.

    What benefits can clients expect from this collaboration? Clients will have access to tailored advisory services, leveraging both Lombard Odier’s sustainability expertise and Hong Leong Bank’s local market knowledge for a comprehensive wealth management experience.

  • AirAsia Xpanding Services To China And Australia

    AirAsia Xpanding Services To China And Australia

    Australians have another way to get to Asia now AirAsia X restarted its Kuala Lumpur to the Gold Coast service yesterday. The nostalgic service retraced AirAsia X’s first-ever route, launched over 25 years ago.

    AirAsia X started the Kuala Lumpur to Queensland’s Gold Coast in November 2007, but it has been suspended for more than two years due to the pandemic restrictions. The Gold Coast is one of Australia’s premier tourist destinations for domestic and international travelers and has been one of AirAsia X’s most popular destinations.

    Radar24.com, flight D7200 departed Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KUL) on Friday at 23:43 for the 6,500 kilometers (4,000 miles) flight to the Gold Coast. The flight was operated by a nine-year-old Airbus A330-300, registration 9M-XXK and manufacturer serial number 1433.

    After 7:51 hours of flying, it landed at Gold Coast Airport (OOL) at 09:34 yesterday morning. The A330-300 was on the ground for just over two hours before departing at 11:36 and arriving back in Kuala Lumpur at 17:44. It then returned to Australia as flight D7288, arriving at Sydney Airport (SYD) at 09:45 this morning.

    Fleet data from ch-aviation.com shows that AirAsia X (AAX) has a fleet of thirteen A330-300s, with three inactive. The data shows it also has 20 Airbus A321XLRs, 15 A330-900neos, and one A330-300 on order.

    AirAsia X CEO Benyamin Ismail was on the flight. He said it was a crucial day for the airline that will “strengthen the ties between Malaysia and Australia.

    “The Gold Coast will always hold a special place in our hearts, and what makes this announcement even more of a major milestone is that AAX is now the only airline connecting Kuala Lumpur directly to the Gold Coast and to Queensland on the whole.

    “Our newest route now provides the most affordable and convenient air travel option for guests who want to explore one of Australia’s most popular tourist destinations and for Australians seeking to visit Malaysia or continue on throughout Asia with our vast global network, including to leisure favorites like Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam, India and more.”

    In March, AAX resumed flights from Kuala Lumpur to Shanghai and Hangzhou in China and restarted services to Beijing. Flight D7342 departed KUL on March 30th at 19:15 and landed at Beijing Daxing International Airport (PKX) at 00:55 on Friday. The Airbus A330-300, registration (M-XBF), left Beijing at 03:32 and, after a 5:49 hour flight, landed in Kuala Lumpur at 09:21.

    The route will operate twice weekly and will stimulate business travel and tourism in both directions. Now that China has resumed issuing tourist visas, AAX believes it will see a surge in demand for flights between KL and PKX. AirAsia X last operated the route on April 12th, 2020, although it operated in and out of Beijing Capital Airport (PEK).

    The airline plans to ramp up Beijing frequency to four flights weekly starting from June 1st to meet growing forecast demand. Beyond that, AAX is planning more expansion to more unique, less traveled destinations in China soon.

  • AirAsia Resumes Flights Between Kuala Lumpur and Siem Reap, Cambodia

    AirAsia Resumes Flights Between Kuala Lumpur and Siem Reap, Cambodia

    AirAsia has resumed flights between Kuala Lumpur and Siem Reap, Cambodia. The airline will operate the route with two flights per week on Mondays and Fridays. Flight AK540 is scheduled to depart from Kuala Lumpur International Airport 2 (klia2) at 13:05, arriving in Siem Reap at 14.20. The return flight, AK541, is timed to leave Siem Reap at 14:55, arriving back in Kuala Lumpur at 18:10.

    Cambodia was one of the first countries in the region to relax its entry requirements for foreign travel, reopening the Kingdom to fully vaccinated international travellers without the need for quarantine or COVID19 testing at all international gateways and checkpoints in November 2021.

    HE Thong Khon, Minister of Tourism, Cambodia, said, “Cambodia is now truly open for all vaccinated tourists and we welcome AirAsia guests back to our great country with open arms. Tourism is a significant driver of our economy and social development, we thank AirAsia for their continued support to stimulate and grow air travel to our key leisure destinations. Cambodia, the Kingdom of Wonder, invites travellers from all walks of life to feel its warmth, safely and hygienically.”

    The Siem Reap flights follow AirAsia’s resumption of flights between Kuala Lumpur and Phnom Penh, the Kingdom’s capital city, in January.

    “Prior to COVID19, Siem Reap was one of the most popular destinations in ASEAN as a key tourist hub for globetrotters from all over the world,” said Riad Asmat, CEO AirAsia Malaysia. “AirAsia started the route in 2018 and flew close to 170,000 passengers in 2019. We are confident that these new services will continue to be very popular in the future. In response to strong demand, we are also planning more flights and destinations in Cambodia with services to Sihanoukville scheduled to take flight on 2 June. AirAsia welcomes the initiatives taken by the Cambodian government to ease travel restrictions to allow more seamless travel to Cambodia. We look forward to flying more leisure seekers from near and far to the country soon.”

    For entry into Malaysia, all international tourists and travellers are required to take a pre-departure COVID19 test within 2 days of departure and purchase COVID19 travel insurance (for short-term foreign visitors). Unvaccinated or partially vaccinated travellers are required to spend 5 days in quarantine.

    For entry into Cambodia, there are no pre-departure, post-arrival COVID19 tests or quarantine requirements for fully vaccinated travellers. Travellers are only required to show proof of being fully vaccinated. Fully vaccinated travellers from Malaysia who wish to travel to Cambodia must meet the requirements set by the Cambodian Government prior to purchasing their flights and upon arrival.

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  • Eslite opening mega store in KL, Malaysia

    Eslite opening mega store in KL, Malaysia

    Eslite Spectrum Corp (誠品生活), which runs the Eslite bookstore chain in Taiwan and abroad, yesterday inked an agreement with Malaysia’s YTL Corp Bhd to open a branch in downtown Kuala Lumpur in 2022.

    The two sides signed the partnership via a teleconference to launch the Taiwanese bookstore brand in YTL’s mixed-use property The Starhill in Bukit Bintang, a central business district in the Malaysian capital.

    Despite the company’s aim to grow its business abroad, Eslite Spectrum chairwoman Mercy Wu (吳旻潔) said that she was initially hesitant about expanding to Malaysia when the world was in the grip of a pandemic.

    “I decided to take the step at the urging of YTL Corp, the largest conglomerate in Malaysia whose founder, Yeoh Tiong Lay (楊忠禮), was an immigrant from Kinmen and had long supported Chinese culture and education,” Wu told a news conference in Taipei.

    Joseph Yeoh (楊恭賢), vice president of YTL hotels and property wing, said from Kuala Lumpur he was confident that Eslite would succeed in Malaysia, as many people there would still prefer in-person shopping once the COVID-19 pandemic is over.

    YTL has a global footprint with nine shopping malls in different parts of the world and the collaboration with Eslite could lead to other partnerships in the future, Joseph Yeoh said.

    “We will first focus on the current project,” he said.

    The upcoming flagship Eslite branch at The Starhill would be a 2,000 ping (6,600m2) space featuring a bookstore, as well as retail, food and beverage sections, Wu said.

    A Taiwanese team is in charge of its interior design, in line with the company’s mission to integrate the humanities, arts and creativity into life, Wu said.

    “Our initial hesitation stemmed from our insistence on doing the best we can to live up to a reputation of being the top cultural brand across Chinese societies,” Wu said.

    Kuala Lumpur, dubbed the World Book Capital City by the UN, is an ideal destination for expansion, as Malaysia has topped the list of foreign visitors from Southeast Asia for the past 10 years, she said.

    Malaysians have long embraced cultural diversity, with Chinese constituting the second-largest ethnic group, making Malaysia a major export market for Taiwanese books, she added.

    The new Eslite branch is expected to help drive cultural tourism in Malaysia and benefit the two partners, Wu and Yeoh said.

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  • Berluti opens first Malaysian store in KL

    Berluti opens first Malaysian store in KL

    French men’s fashion house Berluti has opened Malaysia’s first store in Kuala Lumpur in partnership with Indonesian retail firm Time International.

    Located at Suria KLCC, the Berluti store occupies a 105sqm space, offering a selection of men’s shoes, leather goods, ready-to-wear and accessories.

    The store’s facade features a wooden-patterned wall and a display box showing the latest Berluti collection. The interior design uses a warm brown beige palette to highlight the masculinity elements.

    “The ‘full-grain’ club ambiance flawlessly complements the speakeasy reference of the Patina Wall, a genuine ode to Berluti’s savoir-faire,” the company said in a statement.

    “This store shows our commitment to build and expand the brand’s presence in Malaysia and celebrate the iconic French brand with our clients,” said Irwan Danny Mussry, president and CEO of Time International.

    The store also houses the Fall/Winter 2020 ready-to-wear and accessories collection and the Maison’s first patterned canvas collection designed by Artistic Director Kris Van Assche.

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  • Swarovski opens Crystal Studio concept store in KL, Malaysia

    Swarovski opens Crystal Studio concept store in KL, Malaysia

    Swarovski has launched Southeast Asia’s first Crystal Studio concept store, in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Located in Mid Valley Megamall, the store offers interactive digital touchpoints throughout the store, including shop window screens and interactive tablets.

    Designed by Patricia Urquiola, the store concept “follows the last store redesign 10 years ago and heralds a new phase in Swarovski’s differentiated approach to the retail experience,” the company said.

    “The new Swarovski retail concept truly puts consumers at the center,” said Michele Molon, EVP omnichannel and commercial Oo/erations. “We are breaking the traditional distance between staff and customers, facilitating an interactive and continuous dialogue with them.”

    The store theme color is an incorporation of a warm color palette and Swarovski’s signature blue. Crystal Studio Malaysia houses a Crystal Bar, a station where customers can view new products with in-store experts.

    “Innovation, creativity, and the customer are at the core of this exciting new store concept,” said Robert Buchbauer, chairman and CEO, consumer goods business.

    “Before we started working on the aesthetics, we focused on functionality, with the ambition being to meet the digital demands of our consumers while offering them a unique and immersive brand and shopping experience,” he said.

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  • AirAsia resumes KL-Singapore flights under RGL scheme

    AirAsia resumes KL-Singapore flights under RGL scheme

    AirAsia resumed its Kuala Lumpur to Singapore flights today, allowing cross-border travel for essential and official travellers, following the implementation the Reciprocal Green Lane (RGL) scheme by both countries.

    AirAsia Malaysia CEO Riad Asmat said both countries have taken relentless efforts and strict discipline in containing the spread of Covid-19, and the RGL is a first step towards reviving the economy, especially for those who have essential travel needs between both countries.

    “We look forward to seeing more ‘travel bubbles’ and ‘green lanes’ formed between countries with low infection rates or active cases, and proven pandemic curbing systems to facilitate the need for air travel.

    “At the same time, we urge all guests to adhere to the required regulations and follow the safety measures for a safe flying journey,” he said in a statement today.

    The flight departed from klia2 today at 11.50am to Changi International Airport, and returned to klia2 at 2.35pm.

    He said AirAsia will continue to review the suitability of introducing more frequencies between the two countries.

    “AirAsia would like to remind guests of travel requirements set by both countries under the RGL scheme, all inbound and outbound travellers for essential business and official travel between Malaysia and Singapore via the RGL are required to check their eligibility and travel requirements before their scheduled departure,” he said.

    More information on the matter is available on AirAsia’s Travel Requirements page.

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  • Robinsons may quit one Kuala Lumpur site

    Robinsons may quit one Kuala Lumpur site

    Singaporean department-store chain Robinsons may close one of its locations in Kuala Lumpur before its lease expires due to lackluster performance.

    The store launched a four-story 20,000sqft space in The Shoppes in Four Seasons Place less than two years ago, which has failed to live up to the firm’s expectations in terms of footfall. Its other outlet in the city has been operating since 2007.

    Robinsons has reportedly approached other department store operators in the territory to take over the space, including Parkson – which vacated its longstanding space in the neighboring Suria KLCC mall just last year.

    According to a report in The Edge, discussions between tenant and landlord are ongoing to determine the firm’s exact date of departure, which is likely to be in the third quarter this year. Robinson’s has filed widening financial losses in recent years.

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  • Malaysian retailers hit by coronavirus

    Malaysian retailers hit by coronavirus

    Malaysian retailers operating in tourist zones have seen sales plunge in the wake of the coronavirus outbreak.

    Locally headquartered leathergoods retailer Bonia says sales have fallen by as much as 77 percent in one location and were down overall as fewer Chinese traveled to Malaysia and locals avoided crowded locations to reduce their exposure to the virus.

    Besides its own brand, Bonia also operates stores under the Braun Buffel, Sembonia, Renoma and Valentino Rudy banners.

    Aa Bonia spokesperson said sales had dropped 30 percent overall in the first 17 days of February, the peak, so far, of the virus outbreak.

    “Our Genting Highlands outlet has been tremendously affected,” he said. “The key factor is Covid-19, which has made tourist numbers decline, while local consumers are shying away from crowded malls during their weekend outings.”

    Sales at the Genting Highlands store were down 77 percent and at the Pavilion shopping center in Kuala Lumpur by 35 percent, year on year.

    Stores in Johor Bahru and Penang have also been hit.

    Another retailer, Corn In a Cup, has experienced a drop in sales of between 15 and 40 percent, with the worst-affected store the one at Zoo Negara, where daily sales usually run from 200 to 300.

    “We have been operating at the zoo for over 10 years,” he told The Edge. “Never before in history have we only sold one cup of corn in a day.”

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  • AirAsia offers up to 30% off for flights from KL

    AirAsia offers up to 30% off for flights from KL

    AirAsia Group Bhd is offering 30% off all its flights out of Kuala Lumpur from now until Feb 23, except those operated by AirAsia India and AirAsia Japan.

    The special sale is for travel between Feb 24 and Sept 30.

    In a statement today, AirAsia said the discounted base fares are for short-haul flights from Kuala Lumpur to destinations such as Johor Baru, Bintulu, Kuantan, Maldives, Krabi and Kolkata.

    “Our goal is to make travel more affordable and seamless than ever before as we continue our transformation to become a leading online travel package platform — now offering much more than just airfares,” airasia.com CEO Karen Chan said.

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