World Leading Developer Companies' Interview No.6

Mr. Alan Koh (CEO) of Alpine Return Sdn Bhd

We had an interview with Alan Koh from Alpine Return Sdn. Bhd, a joint venture of the Malaysia public listed company. He shared his past experiences in setting up the company and also the company's plan in the future.

CEO Profile

Alan Koh joined Alpine Returns in February 13^th 2013 as the Chief Operating Officer. He graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in Marketing from University of Hawaii, and MBA in Finance from Hawaii Pacific University. Mr. Alan Koh started his real estate career in Hawaii marketing to Japanese investors and continued back in Asia with numerous big real estate firms in the areas of commercial and residential investment, asset management, real estate fund, and development. He has more than 27 years of real estate experience in Asia and The United States of America. Capitaland Singapore was one of Asia’s largest listed real estate firms he worked for as Senior Vice President responsible for asset management, investment, divestment, and development of commercial office, retail, industrial, hospital, and high-end residential developments. In Malaysia, he joined one of the biggest listed real estate firms SP Setia as Head of Investment and Development responsible for a Rm6 billion(US$1.5billion) integrated development.

About Alpine Return Sdn. Bhd.

Alpine Return Sdn Bhd operated as a subsidiary of Bolton Berhad (now known as Symphony Life) and United Malayan Land Bhd (UM Land Sdn Bhd) and was officially established on March 29, 2007. It is a 50:50 joint venture company backed by these two of most reputable property developers in Malaysia. They incorporate to own and develop a 4.12-acre site located at prime location in the Central Business District. Alpine Returns Sdn Bhd has marketed Star Development mainly to foreign investors in Singapore, China, Korea, Taiwan and Hong Kong. Alpine Return Sdn Bhd has partnered with Samsung C&T in construction of Star Development in Kuala Lumpur City Center (KLCC).

Why did you choose to be in real estate industry?

I started working in Hawaii which is by the way a service oriented industry as a sales and leasing agent marketing to Japanese investors. The initial experience in real estate got me interested in servicing customers and my day-to-day involvement in buildings and estate management. When I came back to Asia, I had more opportunity to join a fast-pace real estate market that was more vibrant and I gain a lot of experiences in all sectors of residential and commercial real estate.

How did you plan out the project’s steps?

Alpine Return Sdn Bhd is owned by two of the most reputable property developers in Malaysia - Symphony Life Berhad and UM Land Berhad. I joined and undertook the development as a green field project, from the creation of the initial concept, naming, design, and planning of Star Development. This project is special because I spent a big part of my time doing the research and development before writing a 40-pages design brief for the architect. The product design has been evolving from day one in all areas of building façade, public spaces, and interior design to becoming of the most unique development in KL.

What is your target for your company in 2017?

In this year, we are planning to launch Tower 3, a branded serviced apartment - ASCOTT STAR in July 2017. I believe the take-up will be fantastic given our successful launch of Tower 1(100% sold) and Tower 2 (85% sold) given our unique proposition of our Malaysia’s 1^st Walk of Fame and our bold flamboyant design and W-hotel DNA that will appeal to many young and affluent investors. We believe with ASCOTT International brand, which has 40,000 rooms worldwide will add a lot of investment value to the buyers.

What is the greatest project in your company?

At this moment, we only have one project which is Star Development. It is a fantastic project; it gives me a lot of satisfaction through the creation of the entire development. This is a very special project for both shareholders not just in terms of branding and creation of more value for investors but enhancement of both companies in moving into the higher-end luxury real estate sector.

Which one are you focusing on, the local or foreign customers?

We have about 50% of our customers from local and 50% foreigners when we first launch the Star Residences. Now, our overseas market rise to 60% of the market as the appeal for foreign investors for Malaysia’s property appetite grow because Malaysia is still one of the most affordable countries to buy property compared to other regional countries like Singapore, Hong Kong, Korea and China.

What is your message for Japanese investor?

If you look at the niche market, Malaysia is one of the best countries to invest because the market price is still one of the cheapest in South East Asia. The current currency is cheap and favorable to invest. With the completion of the Fast Speed Train in just 90 minutes from Singapore, and new MRT, prices will likely to move up further. Land is also scarce in KL city; together with increase in construction costs, I believe this is the right time and opportunity for Japanese investors.

<<Projects of Alpine Return Sdh Bhd>>
Star Residence Two: High-class luxury tower residences located in the best district, closed to the Twin Tower.