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Three of Asia’s biggest economies pulled out all the stops at the SPAD Land Public Transport (LPT) Symposium, with all eyes on the multi-billion ringgit prize – the Kuala Lumpur-Singapore High Speed Rail contract.

China proclaimed that it would build the rail faster and cheaper. Japan confidently said the safety and quality of its Shinkansen was unbeatable, while South Korea stressed it offers the best of both.

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak, Transport Minister Datuk Seri Liow Tiong Lai and Land Public Transport Commission (SPAD) chairman Tan Sri Syed Hamid Albar toured elaborate train set-ups by the China Railway Corporation, East Japan Railway Co and Korea Rail Network Authority at the symposium yesterday.

All three companies provided virtual reality simulations of how fast their trains would operate and how they would respond to security problems.

China was the flashiest of the three, renting a huge space in the KL Convention Centre, featuring a storey-high screen and a train control panel to give exhibition participants an idea of its version of the HSR.

Japan’s simulation was a game with its bullet train mascot Shinkalion, while South Korea was driven towards education of the technology used in its HSR system.

Malaysia and Singapore signed a memorandum in July to open the new high speed rail line by 2026, promising to spur economic growth in areas along the 350km line. The project could cost up to RM63bil (S$20.8 billion).

East Japan Railway vice chairman Masaki Ogata, said although its train may be seen as “expensive” Japan was banking on the reliability and quality of its Shinkansen to draw passengers and cut maintenance costs.

“We are confident we can provide a very early operation launch and we understand Malaysia and Singapore already know the quality of the Shinkansen. The life cycle of the Shinkansen can mean very low maintenance cost,” he said.

China Railway chief engineer He Huawu said China would build in one year what his competitors would do in five years.

He argued that China had a better safety record than Japan, considering its bullet train travels longer distances.

“For every billion passenger-km, we have the least injuries and deaths. Our cost is definitely lower because we have large-scale production of railways. I build 1,000km high-speed rail, they build 100km high-speed rail. Of course, our cost is lower, isn’t it?” he said.

Korea Rail Network Authority general manager Yoon Chi Man said it could provide Malaysia and Singapore Japan’s technology at cheaper prices.

“I’m not sure we can beat China’s price. But I’m sure we can beat Japan’s price. We have a very unique technology that is compatible with Japan and we can give a good experience to Malaysia and Singapore,” said Yoon.

“Malaysia is spoiled for choice,” said Liow.

“We will have to work with Singapore on this. I think they (the three countries) have very good technical support and technology and we are looking forward to them taking part,” said Liow.

Syed Hamid on the other hand, assured that consumer prices for the HSR would remain low.

“Definitely, the price is not going to be more expensive than an airline ticket. But we cannot determine now. It’s too early. May the best party win,” he said.

The HSR project will have eight stations – Bandar Malaysia, Putrajaya, Seremban, Ayer Keroh, Muar, Batu Pahat, Iskandar Puteri and Singapore.

It is expected to reduce rail travel time between Malaysia and Singapore to just 90 minutes, with speeds of over 300km per hour.

Source:Asiaone

Above: High speed rail (HSR) project between Malaysia and Singapore is very important for both countries.

Dr Ali Hamsa, Chief Secretary to the Malaysian government, has called on the civil service to work hard to ensure a timely implementation of the high speed rail (HSR) project between Malaysia and Singapore.

“It is very important that the project is implemented successfully and be operational by 2026,” he said.

Malaysia and Singapore signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for the HSR project on 19 July.

The two countries are now in talks to finalise the agreement by December 2016, said Ali, who was recently in Singapore to attend the 39th Public Service Games and 8th Joint Seminar for Public Service Leaders of Malaysia and Singapore.

He was asked to respond to comments made by Singapore Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong, who previously described the HSR as a long-term, massive investment, and as such good execution is crucial.

In July, PM Lee was in Malaysia to witness the signing of the MoU for the HSR project with Malaysian Prime Minister Najib Razak.

Above: In July, PM Lee was in Malaysia to witness the signing of the MoU for the HSR project with Malaysian Prime Minister Najib Razak.

“PM Najib and I agreed to build the HSR between KL and Singapore three years ago. Since then our officials have worked hard and long, through several Ramadans and Rayas, to reach agreement on key issues,” he said.

“We need to work closely together on many joint decisions and implementation issues. PM Najib and I will give full attention to this, because we want this major project to be done right.”

With speeds of more than 300 km per hour, the 350 km HSR will reduce travel time between Malaysia and Singapore to just 90 minutes.

In Singapore, the HSR terminus will be located in Jurong East.

Malaysia will have seven stations – Iskandar Puteri, Batu Pahat, Muar, Ayer Keroh, Seremban, Putrajaya and Bandar Malaysia.

The first train is slated to commence operations in 2026.

Source: PropertyGuru

Above: Malaysian property listings also jumped 52.7 percent over the same period

Malaysia’s real estate sector witnessed a five and a half times hike in Chinese investor interest.

Data from Juwai.com showed that Chinese buyer enquiries for properties in Malaysia soared 550 percent in the year to August 2016, making it 11th worldwide in Chinese buyer interest.

Views for Malaysian property listings also jumped 52.7 percent over the same period, with an average value of property searched for at US$224,000 (RM929,960).

According to Juwai.com chief executive officer Charles Pittar, China was Malaysia’s biggest source of inward investment last year across the board, not just in property. He noted that some of the investment in industry and development had positive spill-over effects in residential property.

Above: Malaysia’s property sector is making a concerted effort to attract Chinese buyers.

“On top of the economic ties drawing the two companies closer together, Malaysia’s property sector is making a concerted effort to attract Chinese buyers. They are locating and designing projects to appeal to Chinese as well as locals, and they are marketing them in China. Despite the fast growth, Chinese buyers are still only a significant minority in the marketplace,” he said.

“For Chinese buyers, Malaysia is a nearby, easily accessible country with an appealing and very affordable housing market…Malaysia tends to attract buyers pursuing investment or lifestyle strategies, who have other family or commercial ties to the country or who simply cannot afford to purchase in a market like the US or Australia.”

Pittar said Malaysia’s real estate market is currently strong, with home prices up by 7.2 percent year-on-year.

Above: The investment in industry and development had positive spill-over effects in residential property.

“We think the outlook is good for the market, although it does face some headwinds.”

Juwai.com revealed that the Chinese buyer profile in Malaysia is different from that in Singapore, where 59 percent of buyers are motivated by education and 23 percent by investment.

In contrast, 54 percent of Chinese buyers in Malaysia are motivated by investment while only 15 percent by education.

Claiming to the top Chinese international property portal, Juwai.com has over two million monthly users and 2.85 million active listings as at 20 September 2016.

Above: Juwai.com has over two million monthly users and 2.85 million active listings as at 20 September 2016.

Source: PropertyGuru

Thailand’s Royal Palace announced on Thursday that King Bhumibol Adulyadej died at Bangkok’s Siriraj Hospital, and people around the world responded with an outpouring of grief.

Hundreds of Thais had gathered by the hospital since Sunday to chant prayers and offer flowers after news spread of the monarch’s deteriorating health. By Wednesday, the palace announced that the 88-year-old leader’s kidneys and liver were not working properly, and his health had “overall not yet stabilized.”

The king—who was the world’s longest reining monarch, having been on the throne for seven decades—is widely revered in Thailand. He will be succeeded by his son and male heir Crown Prince Vajiralongkorn, says the country’s Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-ocha. He says Thailand will hold a yearlong grieving period.

Here is how world leaders reacted to the death:

U.S. President Barack Obama sent his condolences and recalled the king’s ” grace and warmth, as well as his deep affection and compassion for the Thai people,” according to a White House statement.

He also said the late monarch was “a tireless champion of his country’s development and demonstrated unflagging devotion to improving the standard of living of the Thai people.With a creative spirit and a drive for innovation, he pioneered new technologies that have rightfully received worldwide acclaim. His Majesty leaves a legacy of care for the Thai people that will be cherished by future generations.”

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi called the king “one of the tallest leaders of all time” who was “widely revered by his people.”

The Republic of Ireland’s President Michael D Higgins said the world “lost both its longest reigning head of state and a statesman deeply committed to peace and peaceful co-existence.” He extended his condolences to the people of Thailand, saying: “I wish to express my deepest sympathies to his wife, Queen Sirikit, and his children, in particular to his daughter Maha Chakri Sirindhorn whose visit to Áras an Uachtaráin I recall with fondness, as well as to his wider family and to the people of Thailand.”

Singapore’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a statement saying the Southeast Asian country is “deeply saddened to learn of the passing” of the King. “His Majesty King Bhumibol will long be remembered and respected both in the Kingdom of Thailand and around the world for his devotion to his people,” read the statement.

Source: Times

Not always thought of as the most family-friendly city, Bangkok has a lot to offer under-18s.Rather than a necessary stop on your way to the islands or the cultural north, the Thai capital will be firmly on your itinerary after you discover these 27 kid-centric attractions.From cultural shows to wet and wild water parks, as well as ‘edutainment’ centers, there are many points of interest to keep everyone from toddlers to teens occupied.Whether you’re traveling to Bangkok as a stop-over or coming to stay for a month – you’ll have at least 24 options for some family fun in the capital of Thailand!

9. Toy Fans Rejoice – Tooney Museum

When it comes to toys, there’s no better place to turn to than the Tooney Museum. The museum features a variety of toys, mostly new but with some antiques mixed in. There’s Woody and Buzz from the Toy Story, the Joker and Batman and even Barbie.

The museum was started by a private collector. His collection eventually became so impressive that he couldn’t keep it to himself any longer. So he built this 800 square meter facility to share all of his toys with the public.

The toys are separated into different categories to make for easy viewing.

On top of the fascinating displays, there’s also a small cafe just outside. And for those who would like to start their own toy collection, a shop selling many of the items seen in the museum is also on the premise. Even if you don’t make it to the museum, you can still shop online at their website.

Tooney Museum

Address: 69 275 M.1, Soi Si Saman 8, Si Saman Rd.,Pak Kret 11120, Thailand
Getting There: The museum is located near Don Mueang International Airport. You can reach the museum using public buses, but it is far better to catch a taxi or use your own private transportation.
Contact: +66863370136
Opening hours: Fri – Sun 10AM – 8PM
Entrance Fees: Adult entry from 150 Baht / USD $4.33; Child entry from 100 Baht / USD $2.86

10. Immerse Yourself in Thai Culture – Siam Niramit

After dining and shopping, seeing a show is the next major thing to do in Bangkok, and Siam Niramit is the perfect cultural performance for you and your family.

In fact, Siam Niramit is regarded as the largest cultural performance in Bangkok. Opened in 2005, the auditorium can accommodate up to 2,000 standing spectators. The backstage staff consists of nearly 300 people and the stang is almost 65 meters wide and 40 meters deep, making it one of the world’s largest stages.

The nearly two-hour show boasts gorgeous costumes, great actors, real animals, big sets, water play, fireworks and high-tech special effects. A variety of Thai cultures are demonstrated throughout the 80-minute show.

Before you head to the performance, make sure you have enough time to visit the cultural village around the theater. There is a Thai massage area, a snack area, handicrafts for sale and cottages to represent various districts in Thailand.

If you wish to enjoy dinner and a show, a buffet dinner is available for purchase prior to the start of the show.

Do note that cameras are not allowed in the theater so it’s best to leave yours in your hotel room.

Siam Niramit

Address: 19 Tiamruammit Road, Bangkok 10320,Thailand
Getting There: The nearest MRT station is Thailand Cultural Center
Contact: +6626499222
Opening hours: The show starts at 8:00PM Daily
Price: Tickets from 1500 Baht / USD $43.27

11. Snap a Selfie with a Celebrity – Madame Tussauds Wax Museum

Have you ever wanted to sit on the Queen of England’s throne? Or act like the president in the Oval Office? How about meeting a movie star?

You can do all of these things without leaving Bangkok. That’s right! You only need to visit Madame Tussauds Wax Museum to fulfill all of your dreams.

This museum is full of wax figures representing the most famous celebrities, including President Obama, the Queen of England, Vin Diesel, Cristiano Ronaldo, Serena Williams and David Beckham. Guests are free to approach and pose with the wax figures. This is the perfect time to get a photo with the celebrity you or your family have always dreamed of meeting.

PS: if you plan to visit both the Sea Life Bangkok Ocean World and Madame Tussauds Wax Museum, be sure to enquire about combination tickets. These usually save you a bit of money on general admission to both attractions.

Madame Tussauds Wax Museum

Address: 989 Rama 1 | 6th Floor, Siam Discovery Shopping Center, Bangkok 10300, Thailand
Getting There: The nearest BTS station is Siam.
Contact: +6626580060
Opening hours: 10AM – 9PM
Entrance Fees: From 590 Baht / USD $17.02

12. Swim with Sharks – Sea Life Bangkok Ocean World

On the bottom two floors of the new Siam Paragon Centre in Bangkok, Sea Life Bangkok Ocean World might just be the most marine-tastic experience you’ll have in Thailand’s capital.

The Sea Life center hosts more than 30,000 marine animals, including but not limited to seals, ragged-tooth sharks, leafy sea dragons, blue-ringed octopus, stingrays, giant spider crabs, leopard sharks and more.

Ocean World is the largest aquarium in the whole of Southeast Asia and one of the largest “edutainment” centers in Bangkok.

Upon entry to Ocean World, you’ll be introduced to seven different marine environments starting with the “Weird and Wonderful.” Then you’ll explore the “Open Ocean,” “Rainforest,” “Deep Reef,” “Rocky Shore,” “Sea Jellies,” and “Living Ocean.”

Walking through these environments may be adventure enough for some. But for those looking to get a little more up close and personal with the marine life, Ocean World offers a diving adventure into their 2.8 million liter oceanarium.

During the experience, you’ll come face-to-face with marine life while being guided by fully qualified instructors.

If you don’t feel like getting wet, yet still want to get closer to the animals, consider a ride in the glass-bottomed boat.

This will take you over the oceanarium so you can observe the sharks, rays and fish below. Alternatively, sign up for one of the organized tours with aquatic life experts who guide you through the aquarium and answer all of your most pressing questions.

We’re sure your children will be asking to return to the aquarium again and again after a visit to Sea Life Bangkok Ocean World!

Sea Life Bangkok Ocean World

Address: Siam Ocean World Co., Ltd.; B1-B2 Floor, Siam paragon; 991 Rama 1 Road; Pathumwan, Bangkok 10330
Getting There: The nearest BTS station is Siam.
Contact: +6626872000
Opening hours: 10AM – 9PM
Entrance Fees: Adult entry from 450 Baht / USD $12.98; Child entry from 280 Baht / USD $8.08

13. Feel the Need for Speed – EasyKart

If you’re in the mood to open the throttle but are restricted by Bangkok’s traffic, EasyKart is the perfect solution for your adrenalin needs. This indoor go-karting track in downtown Bangkok is suitable for all ages. You can race with (or against) your kids.

There are three sizes of kart for different experience levels, ranging from 100CC to 270CC with a maximum speed of 60 kilometers per hour. Each race lasts 8 minutes and the necessary safety equipment is provided and required.

The track itself will keep you on your toes. There are several sharp turns and a few stretches where you can really test the speed of your machine.

This track is technologically advanced too. Your lap times are recorded on an electronic board overhead, and each driver is given a printout of the times after the race.

If you want to sit a race out but still cheer on your family and friends, head up to the observation deck where you’ll have a bird’s eye view of the action!

EasyKart

Address: 31//11 RCA Plaza, 2nd Floor, Rama 9 Road, Bangkapi, Huaykwang, Bangkok 10320
Getting There: The nearest BTS station is Petchaburi and the nearest MRT station is Rama 9.
Contact: +66860280880
Opening hours: 1PM – 12AM
Price: From 450 Baht / USD $12.98

14. Have a Sing-Along – Playhouse Magical Cabaret

It wouldn’t be a list of things to do in Bangkok without a ladyboy show. While you may question whether this is family-appropriate, Playhouse Magical Cabaret is less cabaret and more performance dance, making it safe for the whole family.

Recently settled into their new location in Suan Lum Night Bazaar, the show includes a huge range of genres such as musicals, singing, dance, magic and humor. Many of the song and dance numbers are set to well-known hits, making the performance fun and memorable to all.

And don’t get us started on the costumes! Each and every performance features another gorgeous outfit. The singers and dancers glitter as they move across the stage.

The venue itself is small, but perfectly laid-out to give everyone in the house a good view. The new technology used at the Bazaar Theater serves to add to the mystique of the show.

Overall, if you and your family would like to see a ladyboy and cabaret show in Bangkok, it has to be the Playhouse Magical Cabaret.

Playhouse Magical Cabaret

Address: 5 Suan Lum Night Bazaar C floor Ratchadaphisek Ratchadaphisek Rd, Chom Phon, Chatuchak, Bangkok 10900
Getting There: The nearest MRT station is Lat Phrao.
Contact: +666622150571
Opening hours: Showtimes at 7:00PM and 8:30PM
Price: Tickets from 1200 Baht / USD $34.62

15. Creativity even your kids will appreciate! – Bangkok NANTA Theatre

NANTA Cooking show originally began in South Korea. The show is still very popular in that country and has been running for over 16 years! Because of its success, NANTA has been able to begin performing in several Asian countries, including Thailand.

The performance consists of a bland of acrobatics, musical magic, dance, comedy and mime as a part of the Korean percussion tradition. In addition, NANTA is a non-verbal performance.

But we haven’t even touched on the coolest part about NANTA yet. The performers are actually chefs preparing a wedding dinner, so all the items used as percussion instruments can be found in the kitchen! This additional element makes NANTA a must-see!

Do note that cameras are not allowed in the theater so it’s best to leave yours in your hotel room.

In addition to musical performances, NANTA also features interactive sessions with the audience. All visitors can participate, so be ready to get your percussion on!

Bangkok NANTA Theatre

Address: 31/9 Soi Soonvijai, New Petchburi Rd | Bang Kapi, Huai Khwang, RCA Plaza Bldg, 1F, Bangkok 10310, Thailand
Getting There: The nearest MRT station is Petchburi.
Contact: +6626414407
Opening hours: The show starts at 8:00PM Tuesday through Sunday
Price: Tickets from 1100 Baht / USD $31.73

16. It’s more than just 3D! – 4DX @ Paragon

Perhaps you’ve ridden a 4D ride at an amusement park (like Dinosaur Planet). The 4DX at Paragon is similar to those rides, but it takes the 4D experience to a new level. By that we mean, it gives entire Hollywood films an extra ‘D.’

The theater itself is slightly larger than normal, and you might notice some extra features as you sit down. For example, there are speakers surrounding your head and what looks like the barrel oThese additions make the 4D experience possible. As you watch your film of choice, the theater will be filled with different scents, you’ll be sprayed with water, fog will lift from the screen, your seat will tilt and vibrate, and you’ll get blasted with strong winds, just as if you were actually in the movie.

Combine this with normal 3D and you have one of the world’s best movie experiences at your fingertips.

4DX @ Paragon

Address: Paragon Cineplex 6th Fl., Siam Paragon | Pathum Wan, Bangkok, Thailand
Getting There: The nearest BTS station is Siam.
Contact: +66212946356
Opening hours: 10AM – 10PM
Price: From 500 Baht / USD $14.42

Source: Trip canvas